Last week, Rep. Dan Newhouse participated in an American Hotel and Lodging Association sponsored Heart of the House tour of the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kennewick Tri-Cities. The program provides congressional members with a behind the-scenes look at how hotels in their district operate and contribute to the local community.
SpringHill Suites Kennewick General Manager Cliff Reynolds led the tour. They were joined by John Lane, director of Federal and Local Government Affairs, and Dale Porter grassroots manager. They highlighted the importance of tourism to the economy and discussed why short-term rentals should follow the same laws and regulations as hotels and other businesses.
Newhouse was a great sport. He learned how the hotel folds its towels from a laundry attendant and competed against the housekeeping supervisor in stripping a bed. Afterwards, he had the opportunity to visit the pop-up holiday market being held at the hotel and meet with local vendors.
The tour was a success and a great opportunity for Newhouse to learn more about the importance of our industry and its contribution to the local and state economy.
