Armstrong Williams takes on the news of the week and asks the questions you want answered. Don’t miss our weekly town hall. sponsoredFairmont Austin offers brunch and pampering for Mother's Day weekendby We Are Austin Texas — Fairmont Austin is rolling out the red carpet for moms this Mother's Day weekend with a delightful brunch The hotel is offering a stunning brunch spread that promises to make moms feel extra special "We’ve been doing breakfast for quite some time but we launched a new breakfast menu that's all à la carte," explained Fairmont Austin Director of Operations Meghan Earnshaw adding the new cinnamon roll croissant is a favorite Fairmont Austin is also promoting a special gift card offer throughout May Purchase $250 in gift cards and receive an additional $25 gift card Don't miss this opportunity to treat mom to a memorable day of relaxation and indulgence Find more details on their website at fairmont-austin.com and Judah Schieber play with a kitchen set during the Martin County Homeschooling Co-op get together on Friday The event is held twice a month for homeschooling parents homeschooling is becoming more popular in Martin County and across Minnesota Granada-Huntley-East Chain and Truman school districts have increased homeschooled students With the new influx has come groups to support and bring together homeschooling parents One of these is the Martin County Homeschool Co-op The group in its current form was started in 2022 by Amber Schueler and Chantal Penner Penner said they wanted to provide a different experience from other groups in the area “[They] have classes,” she said “There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that We wanted to do something different and not have classes and let the kids play and be a support group to the parents.” with around five to 10 attending the group sessions at Trimont Covenant Church twice a month Other events with the kids include field trips The parents also have a moms get together once a month where they have kid-free time to unwind as a group all six moms who attended the most recent session said they enjoy getting to spend more time with their kids said she saw this firsthand as a former public school teacher “I saw how long these kids were away from their families,” she said originally enrolled her first child into public school “I knew I would be able to give her the education she needed at home,” Ingvall said She loves being able to focus and get her work done and then have the rest of the day to do what she wants to do.” were homeschooled themselves and opted to do the same with their kids while Penner has five from an eighth grader to a preschooler each parent said they have a routine with their kids to best get the knowledge they need Penner said she does her schooling with her kids throughout the morning “We have a series of together subjects,” she said “Our writing class together is right now the eighth grader will have more of an assignment They also do individual subjects like math The group’s members have also felt the current trend of increased homeschooling Schueler said it’s no mystery why the numbers have jumped since COVID “Parents became aware of what their kids were learning because school was online,” she said or we want to be the ones to teach our kids about this.’ On the opposite side parents found out they loved being home with their kids They loved being a part of their education and teaching them.” With this increase has also come increased scrutiny An amendment made to draft bill SF1740 in April and passed on the State Senate floor would see restrictions placed on who can homeschool If anyone in the homeschooling family has been convicted of a certain misdemeanor or felony charge at any point but could before the legislative session ends May 19 Penner said she fears it could prevent capable parents from schooling their children the way they wish to “There are people who have done stupid things at 17 “Got their life together and are really good parents and this law would prohibit them from homeschooling their kids.” Penner said homeschooling has gotten much easier since she was homeschooled in the 90s There are various curriculums to mix and match or commit to across all subjects ranging from free to over $1,000 depending on the parent’s budget and preference Groups like Martin County Homeschooling Co-op also ensure kids get the social development they need “It’s the number one question as a homeschool parent,” Schueler said “[With homeschool groups] homeschool kids are not just around kids their age I can monitor my kids and how they’re interacting with others I can’t see those interactions with the other kids.” Fairmont Superintendent Andy Traetow said homeschoolers account for 2.3 percent of the total kids in the district He said the school district can help homeschool families with textbooks and school materials as well as other facets of the student experience “Certain provisions for pupil support services as well as their ability to fully participate in extracurricular activities within the school district,” Traetow said “We currently have students participating we have always had and welcomed those students as a part of our extracurricular as well as co-curricular programs during the school day such as band These services and opportunities are available to homeschool kids but Traetow said they are not a requirement for homeschooling Assistance amounts are determined by the state yearly Director of Finance and Business Management Jessica Korte said while the school facilitates requests for textbooks and health or guidance services the assistance amounts are up to $132.98 for textbooks and $358.75 for guidance and counseling services Across all educational opportunities in the Fairmont School district Traetow said he is proud of where they are “We continue to work with any family that wants to engage with us regardless of where their student attends school,” he said “Really proud of the continued work we do throughout our community to educate all our kids and those choices offer families the ability to pursue different avenues.” The full list of misdemeanors and felonies included under the current SF1740 can be found at https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/245c.15 CEYLON — A communion service at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Ceylon will be at 5:30 p.m FAIRMONT—Mayo Clinic Health System-Fairmont is offering a support group for families of children with .. WELCOME — The Welcome Historical Society Museum will be open from 2 to 4 p.m TRUMAN — It's Scholastic Book Fair time at the Truman Public School Library Copyright © 2025 Ogden Newspapers of Minnesota | https://www.fairmontsentinel.com | 64 Downtown Plaza ORLANDO, Fla., April 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Xenia Hotels & Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: XHR) ("Xenia" or the "Company") today announced that it has sold the 545-room Fairmont Dallas for $111 million The transaction price represents an 8.6x multiple and a 10.0% capitalization rate on the property's Hotel EBITDA and Net Operating Income for the twelve months ended February 28 These transaction price metrics are exclusive of an estimated $80 million of near-term capital expenditures The Company expected Fairmont Dallas would have earned approximately $8 million of Hotel EBITDA for the remainder of 2025 "We are pleased to have completed the sale of Fairmont Dallas which opened in 1969 and which we acquired in 2011 for $69 million," said Marcel Verbaas Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Xenia "The unlevered IRR during our ownership period is 11.3% which is an excellent outcome for this investment particularly given the pandemic's significant negative impact on cash flows during 2020 and 2021 The disposition reflects our ongoing focus on upgrading the quality of the portfolio and maintaining balance sheet strength and flexibility Because of the property's significant and disruptive near-term capital needs as well as the expected impact on the market from the upcoming redevelopment of the Dallas Convention Center we believe that this sale and the avoidance of the significant additional capital investment is a superior outcome for the Company relative to continued ownership and re-investment the transaction has increased the overall quality of our portfolio as Fairmont Dallas' historical RevPAR and EBITDA/key trailed meaningfully below our portfolio averages." Net proceeds from the sale will be utilized for general corporate purposes potential acquisitions consistent with the Company's strategy and/or share repurchases under the Company's existing authorization For additional information or to receive press releases via email, please visit our website at www.xeniareit.com (NYSE: XHR) ("Xenia" or the "Company") today announced results for the quarter ended March 31 (NYSE: XHR) ("Xenia" or the "Company") will report financial results for the first quarter 2025 before the market opens.. Hotels and Resorts Travel Banking & Financial Services Real Estate Transactions Do not sell or share my personal information: The sale comes ahead of the Dallas Convention Center’s redevelopment While Fairmont Dallas provided “excellent” returns for Xenia — particularly in light of “the pandemic’s significant negative impact on cash flows during 2020 and 2021” — several hurdles make now a desirable time to sell The sale will help Xenia avoid “significant additional capital investment” that is needed to maintain the property as well as market disruptions caused by the upcoming redevelopment of the Dallas Convention Center Despite the Dallas market experiencing robust hotel demand in recent years Verbaas shared that Fairmont Dallas’ historical RevPAR and EBITDA per key has “trailed meaningfully below” the REIT’s portfolio averages Real estate investment services firm Matthews reported that in the third quarter of 2024, Dallas RevPAR was down 3.6% year over year, and occupancy was struggling to recover given increased supply over the last five years Xenia still owns the Marriott Dallas Downtown the company owns 30 upper upscale and luxury hotels Proceeds from the Fairmont sale could be used for debt repayment, future acquisitions or share repurchases, Xenia detailed in the release. In the last six months, the company also sold the 107-room Lorien Hotel & Spa in Alexandria Get the free daily newsletter read by industry experts From professional games to youth competitions sporting events are bringing rising numbers of tourists to hotels across markets Want to share a company announcement with your peers The free newsletter covering the top industry headlines The Pritchard Family Auto Stores Mason City Motor Speedway hosted an electrifying afternoon and evening of racing Sunday with the &ldquo;May The Fourth Be With You&rdquo; event featuring the K Sports Park Raceway kicked off its season Saturday night with the KS Engineering Iron Man USRA Stock Cars Series driven by Terminator Chassis highlighting action in the Summit USRA Weekly Racing Serie I-35 Speedway delivered high-octane racing Saturday night during Highway 36 Auto &amp; Diesel Night&nbsp;featuring the Summit USRA Weekly Racing Series © Copyright 2025 United States Racing Oak Glen senior McKenzi Martin signed with Fairmont State College to continue her academic and volleyball careers WV AA State Runner Up in 2024 as well as 2023 and 2024 OVAC Championship team Class AA All-State first team in 2023 and 2024 Oak Glen head volleyball coach Morgan Saddler and assistant coach Ray Six Today's breaking news and more in your inbox CLEVELAND (AP) — Tyrese Haliburton made a go-ahead 3-pointer midway through the fourth quarter that sparked a .. Copyright © 2025 Ogden News Publishing of Ohio | https://www.heraldstaronline.com | 401 Herald Square ABOVE: Signage stands in front of several shipping containers letting shoppers and passerby know that a renovation is coming to the Fairmont Walmart FAIRMONT – Part of a statewide sweep Fairmont’s Walmart is undergoing a remodel They are a part of 22 Walmarts being worked on this year $195 million has already been spent on Minnesota Walmart remodels Walmart has been in Fairmont since the mid 2000s and the store here had another significant remodel project in 2015 updates are projected to be throughout the store Displays will be erected for areas like the home and baby departments All departments are seeing expansion as a whole The largest piece of the remodel will be the online pickup and delivery section The physical presence of online pickup and delivery will increase The pharmacy will also be getting a facelift privacy checkout areas and a new room for private screenings Walmart CEO Kieran Shanahan said Walmart stores serve local communities and they want to enable people to shop how they want to “The customers that shop them and the associates that work there all live in those communities,” he said “We want to make sure our stores reflect the community they serve but also make sure our stores are up to date that they offer the best of what Walmart has to offer.” Fairmont Area Chamber of Commerce President Kandi Menne said they are looking forward to seeing the project’s impacts when it is completed “The remodel of our local Walmart marks the beginning of an exciting transformation enhancing both the in-store shopping experience and overall accessibility,” she said “With improvements planned for the store interior and the parking lot this project reflects a strong commitment to better serving our community.” there are no plans for the store to close during the remodel process as construction will happen after hours It began earlier in April and will be finished sometime in August who has assisted Fairmont Track and Field at their home meets for 30 years is this years Sentinel Relay honorary referee FAIRMONT – At the 69th Sentinel Relays Track and Field event Friday a man who has been with Fairmont Track and Field since the 70s will be the honorary referee Jeff Schlomann competed in relays from 1972 to 1976 for Fairmont He participated in what are now called the 100 and 200-meter sprint relays “Everything was in yards at that time and not meters,” Schlomann said Schlomann said the experience of racing was exhilarating you felt that competition was always stiff throughout our area Satisfaction of running those open events and also with teammates we always had very excellent sprint relays Fairmont was very competitive in the track and field at that time.” Schlomann said he still gets the itch to compete “When they’re starting the races and getting into the starting blocks I still have the two-second timer in my head for when the gun goes off,” he said His competitiveness then set him up for a collegiate running career as well competing for Minnesota State University Mankato from 1977 to 1980 Schlomann said the competition was steep across the board “High school was very competitive throughout our region,” he said “When you got to the collegiate level Everybody is better than you usually when you get funneled in.” Schlomann has worked as an Insurance Agent for Farm Bureau and for three decades he has been a key part of Fairmont home meets “When I first started with the relays I helped out with setting people up at the starts “Now I work mainly with the setting athletes up at the starting line so they’re in the right lanes at the right time.” The dedication to do so stems from Schlomann’s goal to be there for the community that cheered him on “Something to give back to the community,” he said “I like doing it and working with the student-athletes If it wasn’t for the staff and volunteer time to put into these relays I’m glad people step up and wish to do that.” While much has changed in the last 30 years not much has for Schlomann at the race track The one big difference is automatic timing and scoring and now it’s all computerized timing,” he said “It’s fantastic to have automatic timing It’s more precise and takes pictures at the end of the race so you don’t have human error.” Schlomann said the nice thing about the Sentinel Relays is how it brings athletes from all of Southern Minnesota and Northern Iowa to compete and increase competition “There’s going to be some great,” he said “[I’m] seeing old friends also It’s great to see classmates of mine whose grandkids are running.” When he found out he had been chosen to be the honorary referee “I appreciate somebody nominating me for being the honorary referee,” he said “It’s very humbling to experience “Jeff is in our top 10 in a couple events He’s been a servant leader for us working the chute for many years as a volunteer He’s a well-respected community member that’s gone above and beyond for us out here at the high school.” Schlomann is tied for second all-time in the 200-meter dash with a time of 22.2 seconds Schlomann said he wants to continue supporting Track and Field even if Fairmont isn’t his main home “I bought a place on the North Shore Duluth,” he said “I don’t know how long I’m going to be hanging out I’ll keep a place here and in the springtime I’ll be glad to come back and help at home meets.” The Sentinel Relay will run Friday starting at 4 p.m After a delay of two hours from a pair of intense thunderstorms that drenched Pony Lewis Field Thursday night the Morgantown girls’ lacrosse team finally took the field to close out their regular season against Fairmont Senior and their performance was well worth the wait 7 Mohigans jumped out to a quick five-goal lead and never looked back dispatching the Polar Bears in dominating fashion with a 20-9 victory MHS (7-7) changed their configuration and strategy on face-offs after struggling in this vital department for much of the year as the Mohigans enjoyed a 17-12 advantage on draws over FSHS (2-12) “We knew we were consistently losing draws and needed to get better,” admitted Mohigans head coach Brian Reed and it made a big difference for us tonight We will continue to tweak things depending on our opponents but it was really good to find success in that part of our game.” possession is one of the main keys to winning but Morgantown did more with their offensive chances than simply control the ball The Mohigans took advantage of turnovers and their team speed to score several goals in transition while also pressuring the Polar Bears defense with aggressive moves and decisive cuts off the ball and finished off their traditional rivals with five more scores in the final frame Seniors Mayleen Monroy and Bailley Howell each had hat tricks and two assists to lead in scoring Emy Leshko and Ella Kupel also scored three goals while senior Addy Zizzi had two goals and one helper Hannah Staley and Lilly Staples each had a pair of goals Senior Mylee Cooper made 7 saves in goal for the Mohigans and were very active in our offensive sets,” Reed said “We have settled with staying on the perimeter too often this season and I was very happy with how we forced their defense to work and how we took advantage of openings as soon as we saw them which means we were very unselfish and looked for open lanes and open players for better shots It was a nice performance for us heading into the playoffs.” Although the win brought Morgantown’s record up to just .500 several early-season close losses – four by a single goal – sets the Mohigans up to perhaps be what every team wants to be heading into the postseason “Our team hung together through that tough stretch,” Reed noted “thanks in large part to our seniors (Howell and now we definitely feel like our team is trending up at the right time We’re looking forward to being a tough out to  have a chance to make some noise in the playoffs – and to keep playing.” The Mohigans open the postseason on the road at Buckhannon-Upshur next Wednesday night at 6:30 p.m 2025From 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM CDTTreat the incredible women in your life to an unforgettable Mother’s Day Brunch at the Pyramid Restaurant in Fairmont Dallas enjoy a gourmet three-course prix fixe menu complemented by an elegant dessert station designed to satisfy every sweet tooth with the build-your-own mimosa bar and featured rosé wine selections that promise to elevate the occasion Live jazz music will set the perfect ambiance and every mother will receive a complimentary rose as a token of appreciation A childhood favorite from Executive Chef Adam’s mother - Assorted cakes and pies in a buffet arrangement Let us know here. Treat the incredible women in your life to an unforgettable \r\n\tMother’s Day Brunch at the Pyramid Restaurant in Fairmont Dallas enjoy a gourmet three-course prix fixe menu\\ complemen\r\n\tted by an elegant dessert station designed to satisfy every sweet tooth A\r\n\tdd a touch of sparkle to the celebration\\ with the build-your-own mimosa \r\n\tbar and featured rosé wine selections that promise to elevate the occasion\r\n\t Live jazz music will set the perfect ambiance\\ and every mother will re\r\n\tceive a complimentary rose as a token of appreciation Small Plates (Choose one)<\r\n\t/p>- Red Gem Salad\\, with buttermilk\\, breakfast radish\\, fines herbs\\,\r\n\t and pepitas - Arugula Salad\\, with arugula vinaigrette\\, honey cris\r\n\tp apple\\, marcona almonds\\, and manchego - Roasted Beets\\, with loca\r\n\tl beets\\, Prosciutto di San Daniele\\, romaine crème fraiche\\, honeycomb\\, \r\n\traspberry\\, and almonds - Pappa al Pomodoro\\, with San Marzano tomat\r\n\toes\\, white beans\\, ciabatta\\, and arbequina olive oil - Quiche\\, with pancetta\\, kale\\, san marzano tomato\\, \r\n\tand pecorino romano - Shrimp and Grits\\, made with gulf shrimp\\, Jup\r\n\titer Rice Grits\\, and L'Explorateur cheese - Shakshuka\\, with roaste\r\n\td cauliflower\\, feta\\, tomato confit\\, feta\\, and baked eggs - Miss \r\n\tVicki’s Chicken and Trees. A childhood favorite from Executive Chef Adam’s\r\n\t mother\\, Vicki. Made with Rotisserie chicken\\, white cheddar Mornay\\, bro\r\n\tccolini\\, Arborio rice\\, and poached egg. - Pupusa\\, with braised po\r\n\trk belly\\, fried egg\\, frisée\\, and house hot sauce - Braised Lamb S\r\n\thank\\, with white bean cassoulet\\, duck confit\\, and caper gremolata Prepare to be amazed and inspired by the wonders of nature at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary in McKinney, Texas, with the unveiling of Bugs LIVE! From March 15 to June 29, 2025, visitors will have the extraordinary opportunity to explore larger-than-life animatronic insects and arachnids, strategically positioned along the beautiful nature trails of the Heard. Included in general admission. This unique exhibit is not just about entertainment; it's a compelling conservation experience designed to deepen your understanding of these fascinating creatures and their vital roles in the ecosystem. As you journey along the trails, surrounded by the natural beauty of the sanctuary, you'll encounter giant, lifelike creatures such as colossal beetles, towering spiders, and magnificent butterflies, each demonstrating the intricate adaptations that make them so essential to our planet's health. Bugs LIVE is perfect for nature enthusiasts of all ages. The exhibit offers photo ops and educational opportunities, encouraging visitors to learn about the crucial conservation efforts needed to protect these often-overlooked yet indispensable members of the animal kingdom. Discover how you can make a difference in preserving their habitats and supporting biodiversity. Don't miss this extraordinary chance to witness the beauty and importance of insects and arachnids in an awe-inspiring setting. Mark your calendars for Bugs LIVE at the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary and prepare for an unforgettable adventure that combines education, conservation, and the sheer wonder of the natural world. Event runs March 15-June 29, 2025 during museum hours. Go to Home PageSubscribeAdvertiser disclosureSearch The Points Guy The opinions expressed below are entirely those of the author and weren't subject to review by the hotel or any external entity The Fairmont Kea Lani originally debuted on Wailea's Polo Beach in 1991 but after undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation it's now blending luxurious amenities with cultural significance The reimagined resort is helping create one of the largest cultural centers on the island — particularly important after the loss of Maui's historical and cultural center Lahaina. Residents of Lahaina in West Maui are still rebuilding after devastating fires tore through the historic town in 2023 but tourism to other parts of the island is vital now more than ever Those hoping to relax and unwind in luxury should consider booking a trip to the Fairmont Kea Lani — here's why the property is a new TPG favorite Related: The 18 best hotels in Maui, from luxury stays to family-friendly resorts the Fairmont Kea Lani boasts just over 400 suites and villas on the pristine Polo Beach in Wailea about 30 minutes south of Maui's Kahului Airport (OGG) detectable from the moment you arrive in the lobby and when you enter your guest room for the first time (And my home doesn't offer expansive ocean views from almost every window.) Fairmont Kea Lani caters to everyone from honeymooners to families and multigenerational travelers The villas are specially designed for families indoor and outdoor dining areas and laundry rooms The grounds are lush and beautiful — exactly what you would expect for a tropical escape One of the best parts about this property is that you are never a far walk from anything; the main building houses all of the restaurants and there's a short path to the villas and beach With three pools (including one adults-only pool) a 140-foot waterslide from the upper to lower Lagoon pool cabanas for rent and a full slate of activities there are plenty of ways to fill your days at the Fairmont Kea Lani For Accor members (it's free to join) there is member-specific pricing on the website And if you want to redeem points for your stay Accor doesn't have an award chart but rather a flat rate per point of 2 cents each You can use this to offset even a portion of your bill late checkout and other FHR amenities would apply to your stay you can also get a once-yearly $200 statement credit when booking an Amex FHR or Hotel Collection property via Amex Travel The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay the resort is about 30 minutes south of Maui's Kahului Airport (OGG) You can connect to the rental car center from the terminal via a tram if renting a car A rental car is a great option if you decide to venture off the resort grounds and experience Maui's Upcountry or its many other beaches and local restaurants The resort also has an Avis Rental Car outpost in the lobby for daily or weekly rentals We knew we would venture outside of the resort, so we rented a Jeep Wrangler from the airport's Avis rental location. We booked through Costco Travel and a seven-day rental was only $277 plus taxes and fees According to the resort's website, valet parking is available for $40 per day per car. Self-parking is available at the resort and is included in the daily resort fee of $50. The resort concierge can help organize excursions with local tour operators if you would like to experience activities off-property or see other parts of the island but prefer not to drive. Upon entering the lush oasis that is the Fairmont Kea Lani (which we reached via a quiet driveway), a bellhop greeted us and offered assistance with our luggage. Another guest experience staff member greeted us with leis and offered our daughter a whale's tale carved necklace. The trip was already off to a great start, and we hadn't even stepped into the gorgeous lobby yet. We made a quick stop at the front desk and were welcomed by the villa experience team. They informed us that drinks would be replenished daily in our villa fridge and that breakfast was included as part of the villa stay; they also explained that the team would be just a phone call away if we needed anything. During the golf cart ride down to the villa, a bellhop provided a brief property tour, pointing out locations as we went along. Once inside the villa, he provided an overview of the villa's features and amenities. If you've ever wondered what living on the ocean in a villa would be like, this is your chance. We spent three glorious nights in a newly renovated, expansive two-bedroom, two-bath, 1,800-square-foot oceanfront villa with a private plunge pool and lanai. This would be my ideal living situation — falling asleep to the sound of the ocean every night and knowing the water is just steps from your patio door. It was heaven. Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123Villa guests enjoy certain resort amenities included with their stay, such as daily breakfast at Kea Lani Restaurant and valet parking. The villa itself also included a barbecue grill on the lanai, two lounge chairs and an outdoor dining table. The staff stocked the kitchen refrigerator with beverages and snacks, and the kitchen was fully equipped for cooking. The villa team can also assist with arranging grocery deliveries. Previous slideNext slide1 of 5BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01234A large granite dining table was between the kitchen and living area. The living room furnishings included a sectional sofa and comfy chair, a flat-screen TV and a ceiling fan. Previous slideNext slide1 of 5BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01234The primary suite with a king bed was on the villa's upper floor (the floor you enter from the outside stairs down to the villa). The room also included a writing desk and chair, a chaise lounge and a small patio with a lounger. Previous slideNext slide1 of 2BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01Ample charging locations for devices were built into the nightstands and TV stand, making it easy to charge multiple devices for a family (not that you'll need them when you're enjoying the resort!). Previous slideNext slide1 of 3BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY012A lower-floor bedroom off the kitchen and living area offered two queen beds, a full closet and a bathroom. Each bedroom included ample closet space (a large walk-in closet was upstairs for the primary suite) and a full bathroom with a tub and walk-in travertine shower. Previous slideNext slide1 of 5BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01234Dual sinks with marble countertops offered plenty of space for travel kits. Previous slideNext slide1 of 3BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY012Alongside the Le Labo bath amenities were bottles of ocean-safe Project Reef mineral sunscreen and after-sun lotion on the bathroom counters — a thoughtful touch. One of my favorite amenities was being able to do laundry in our villa halfway through our trip (this is also how you know you're over 40). The stackable washer and dryer were in the utility room, along with an ironing board and iron. Maui offers outdoor dining weather year-round, so you can feel the ocean breeze while enjoying a cocktail, dinner and a gorgeous sunset no matter the season. The Fairmont Kea Lani has multiple options for dinner, all with ocean views (in addition to room service). Overall, the food quality everywhere on the property was exceptional — even if you are not a seafood lover, you will not go hungry while staying here. An added bonus is that kids under 5 eat free when dining with a registered guest through the resort's Keiki (kids) dining program at Ko, Kea Lani Restaurant and AMA Bar and Grill (restaurant only, no poolside dining). Kids 6 to 12 may order from the Keiki menu at regular price or select items from the full menu and receive 50% off. Ko features a fusion menu of Hawaiian, Asian and South Pacific flavors in an open-air concept space with mostly patio seating. It's on the ground level of the main building overlooking the gardens, the adult pool and the ocean. The restaurant is open for happy hour, dinner and Sunday brunch. To start, we shared the crispy shrimp with a Maui lavender honey sauce, candied macadamia nuts and smashed sesame cucumbers ($30). The flavors were a great complement to each other — it was savory and a bit sweet at the same time. Our dinner choices were the surf and turf special of the night ($57) and the Korean braised short ribs ($58). The surf and turf was a bowl of Asian noodles tossed with bok choy, green beans, red peppers and sauteed shrimp. Perfectly cooked medium-rare slices of ribeye and a chimichurri sauce were sitting on top of the noodles. The Korean braised short ribs were served with carrots, baby bok choy and kimchi fried rice. Both dishes were full of flavor, and we had plenty to share. Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123Breakfast buffet at Kea Lani RestaurantPrevious slideNext slide1 of 3BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY012A villa stay includes daily breakfast at Kea Lani Restaurant. The buffet was plentiful and catered to many different tastes — there were displays of sliced meat, cheeses, artisan bread and pastries, along with Asian-style udon vegetarian noodles and miso salmon, chicken potstickers and miso soup. Each morning, a generous selection was available, from waffles, pancakes and made-to-order omelets to bacon, Portuguese sausage, scrambled eggs and egg whites. Continental options included cereals, yogurts, granola, dried fruits and fresh sliced fruits. Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123Serving lunch and dinner, Pilina is an open-air lobby bar with gorgeous ocean views. The menu offers local drinks, fresh seafood, sushi, and a selection of meat and fish you can cook at your table on a hot rock. Just outside the entrance are swinging chairs which proved to be my daughter's favorite spot to visit besides the pool slide and beach. The drink menu includes a global wine selection, locally made and Japanese sake, a selection of spirits from Hawaiian distilleries, beer from Maui Brewing Company and cocktails. Try the Mauka cocktail ($24) — which means "toward the mountains" — which mixes Fy Hawaii gin, Ohia Lehua honey, ginger, lemon, smoked Big Island bee pollen, angostura bitters and lavender from the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm we visited earlier in the day. Previous slideNext slide1 of 2BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01For dinner, we enjoyed a selection of salmon sashimi ($27), rainbow rolls ($37) and edamame ($16) to start, followed by venison sliders with yuzu tomato jam aioli on Hawaiian sweet rolls ($26). The special sushi roll of the night was recommended by our server and turned out to be our favorite — a lobster, avocado, cucumber roll with soy sauce poke on top with ogo, cilantro microgreens and garlic chips ($37). I love it when resorts have amazing lobby bars for a casual dinner, and Pilina definitely checked all the boxes thanks to its relaxing atmosphere, great drink menu and delicious food. In 2024, the resort unveiled a new cultural center in the lobby, and it's suitable for all ages. The Cultural Center at the Kea Lani is even more significant now because so many invaluable Hawaiian artifacts and historical documents were lost in the Lahaina wildfires. Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123The center offers classes such as hula dancing and ukulele lessons. Plus, it includes a permanent display of Hawaiian artifacts — such as feather headdresses worn by royalty, jewelry made from seashells, ceremonial accompaniments and musical instruments — that were handmade by Maui artisans who replicated the traditional methods of creating them. Previous slideNext slide1 of 6BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY012345The head of the cultural center explained that everything on display is meant to be explored and used — allowing guests to experience the culture and history firsthand. Previous slideNext slide1 of 2BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01We also had fun experiencing the daily koi fish feeding at 9 a.m. (geared toward younger guests). Kids 10 and over might like the stargazing event twice a week on the lawn or the outrigger excursions offered a few times each morning. Stargazing in Hawaii is particularly unique since you are on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean with very little light pollution. If you live in an urban area, you might have never seen the Milky Way or shooting stars. It's worth it to try the high-powered telescope the astronomer brings to see planets and nebulae. Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123A swim with sea turtles is a great way to start the morning, and the outrigger excursion (ages 10 and up, reservation required) was an informative cultural activity that lasted about an hour. It began with an explanation of how the Hawaiian people traditionally used canoes for recreation and fishing. After a traditional Hawaiian prayer and blowing of the conch, the outrigger shoved off Polo Beach and out into the ocean. We paddled in unison for about 15 minutes before stopping to gaze down at the reef below and ease into the water with goggles for a swim. If you're lucky, you'll even get to see some turtles. The main pool (suitable for all ages and families) is divided into the upper pool and lower pool, with a slide connecting the two. Pool cabanas are available in both areas, and rental fees start from $350 per day. The AMA Bar and Grill at the upper pool serves casual Hawaiian fare and also offers happy hour, a swim-up bar and patio dining. The adults-only pool is closer to the main building, facing Ko Restaurant and the Kea Lani breakfast patio. Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123Cabana rentals come with a bento box of edamame and fresh pineapple to snack on, as well as a soft-sided cooler stocked with ice, water, juices and sodas. Pool attendants regularly make the rounds checking on guests and, in the afternoon, bring around frozen chocolate mochi bites for everyone to enjoy. Previous slideNext slide1 of 3BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY012Pool amenities include refillable bottles of mineral sunscreen, a retail shop where you can purchase goggles, sunglasses, pool floats and toys; there's also a scuba desk where you can arrange lessons. Previous slideNext slide1 of 3BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY012Down at Polo Beach, there's an expansive verdant lawn for activities like watching the sunset, morning yoga or for kids to play. Guests who wish to borrow kayaks or stand-up paddleboards can do so free of charge from the beach. Willow Stream Spa is a signature of Fairmont properties with exceptional customer service and treatments. The spa at this property — which is slated to be renovated later this year — features 13 treatment rooms, a full salon and boutique, oceanfront and poolside spa cabanas, and multiple relaxation areas. Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123For my treatment, I chose the Natural Hawaiian Journey (120 minutes, $465), which features locally grown ingredients that native Hawaiians use to maintain health and well-being. I also chose to add on a Knesko collagen face mask ($55). Previous slideNext slide1 of 4BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY0123After my treatment, my skin felt hydrated and relaxed. My therapist, Kellie, provided expert recommendations for my skin type and ways to maintain my post-spa glow. Previous slideNext slide1 of 5BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01234Be sure to leave yourself time to experience the other parts of the spa, from the relaxation room to the healing clay and steam room to the experiential showers — an "afternoon thunderstorm" shower was quite the trip. Previous slideNext slide1 of 5BECKY BLAINE/THE POINTS GUY01234The Fairmont Kea Lani is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, as it offers pool chair lifts, wide entrances and wide pathways. The main building has elevators for access to the shops, restaurants, fitness center and pools. Wide pathways connect the main building to the pools, villas and beach. A select number of single-story, ocean-view villas are accessible from the main pathways without having to navigate steps. As always, TPG recommends calling the hotel ahead of your stay to ensure they can meet your accessibility needs. After enjoying our last sunset at Polo Beach, the villa team called to arrange assistance with luggage and a golf cart ride up to the front of the resort for the next day. When it was time to leave, we were sad to say goodbye to our new oceanfront home away from home, but the aloha spirit of the Fairmont Kea Lani staff remains until our next visit. The Points Guy believes that credit cards can transform lives helping you leverage everyday spending for cash back or travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach That’s why we publish a variety of editorial content and card comparisons: to help you find a great card to turn your goals into reality Game Recap: Men's Basketball | 3/15/2025 10:54:00 PM Thanks for visiting The use of software that blocks ads hinders our ability to serve you the content you came here to enjoy We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here Fairmont's Ellie Ortega puts in the work on her mechanics during a practice leading up to the Sentinel Relays in Fairmont FAIRMONT – As the Sentinel Relays approach senior thrower Ellie Ortega prepares for her fifth appearance in the meet and has the podium in her sights she is excited for the camaraderie that the meet provides “I always have fun at this meet,” said Ortega “We get to be with the JV for Fairmont but it’s fun seeing all the teams and competing with so many of them Ortega did not start her track and field career as a dedicated thrower but that all changed with a nudge from former head coach Bob Bonk “Back when coach Bob Bonk was coaching us he would have something called the triathlon “I was really horrible at that the year before Then I slowly became more of a thrower as time went on.” Ortega’s goal for this season is to see the podium but it’s a focus on consistency that has become the most important thing this season “I definitely want to get a PR because that would be great,” said Ortega As with many Fairmont athletes heading into this meet Ortega remains confident heading into the meet but not too much different,” said Ortega Ortega currently sits in seventh place in the Fairmont record books with a throw of 37 feet and has found the gold six times this season and has only not been in the top two once between discus and shot put The high level of competition that the meet presents is not on Ortega’s radar She is focusing on what she can do and not who she is up against Ortega will try and continue to build on the success she has had this season at the Sentinel Relays at 4 p.m Thanks for visiting NEW ULM — Joey Crissinger’s bases-loaded double in the top of the fourth inning sparked a six-run inning to erase a 3-1 New Ulm lead as the Cardinals went on to top the Eagles 11-5 Monday afternoon in a Big South Conference baseball game at Johnson Park Noah Heckman got the mound win for the Cardinals (4-1 He went four innings and allowed three runs on two hits Candon Briggs took the loss for New Ulm (4-1 He went 3 2/3 innings and was charged with six runs Crissinger and Josh Soelter each had three hits Zach Hubbard had two of the Eagles’ eight hits in the game “This was a very nice win for us against a very good New Ulm team,” Fairmont head coach Dan Waletich said.” We have four games this week — we had very timely hitting today and our relief pitching was good Luke Haefner did that for us today (allowing just two runs) and that was a big shot in the arm.” New Ulm head coach Mike Anderson said that the Eagles’ pitchers struggled to get strike one in the game “And we struggled to throw our second pitch,” he said The Eagles held a 3-1 lead after 2 1/2 innings with all three of their runs coming courtesy of wild pitches They saw that lead blow up in the fourth inning when Fairmont sent 10 men to the plate for six runs with the help of four walks a Joe Long double and a one-out walk to Brayden Williamson loaded the bases After Briggs got the second out of the inning Crissinger drove a three-run double to left for a 5-3 Cardinals lead and ending Briggs day Reliever Zach Hubbard was greeted by a Luke Haefner RBI single and later a run-scoring fielder’s choice “We had timely hitting,” Waletich said “We saw him that third time and we adjusted — Joey’s hit was huge The Eagles came back with a run in the bottom of the inning on a wild pitch before Fairmont added three more runs in the top of the fifth for a 10-4 lead A Levi Hopp sacrifice fly in the bottom of the sixth made it a 10-5 game Joe Long’s triple and a Soelter base hit made it an 11-5 contest “We need to raise our level of compete and we will be OK,” Anderson said while Fairmont is at Jackson County Central on Tuesday ALDEN — The Sleepy Eye United girls led the way Monday during the opening leg of the first-ever Tomahawk-Valley .. SHERBURN — The Sleepy Eye United boys golf team led the field after the opening round of the first-ever .. Scott Vaubel and Andrew Vaubel stand before the Dairy Queen establishment in Fairmont De Boer is set to claim ownership officially on Thursday FAIRMONT — Here’s the ‘scoop’ The local Dairy Queen will continue scooping ice cream for customers with the help of a new leader Current owner Scott Vaubel is set to pass the restaurant’s reins to Lisa De Boer on Thursday after a strong five years of operation in Fairmont “I’ve made some great friendships,” Vaubel recalled his work experience at Dairy Queen and explained that many improvements have been made opened online ordering and DoorDash and [we] have been open more Vaubel has had a Dairy Queen franchisee but has been involved with the company for 32 years as an employee and manager He thinks the business will continue to thrive under the new leadership “I very much think the business is in good hands A lot of businesses lose a local connection but Lisa has a lifetime connection to the area She’s local and involved in the community She’ll be very good for this store.” He shared that the team at Dairy Queen has been supportive and he’ll miss customers and employees alike His love for each aspect of the company is what cemented his long-time journey with the Dairy Queen restaurants I think they’ll miss my singing [Dairy Queen jingle] now what do I do?'” Vaubel said with a laugh “A lot of the staff here have been with me since day one They’ll help with the transition to Lisa.” De Boer is looking forward to working with the team and providing treats and meals to the community I’ll see a lot of familiar faces,” she said “I think it’ll be looking forward to the busy season and right now we’re in the process of training some new employees.” De Boer noted that new features may be added in the future she explained that everything is uncertain “It’ll take time to get familiar with everything and go from there We’ll go forward and see what changes we would like to add,” she said The Dairy Queen staff has expressed their farewells to Vaubel by customizing the outdoor sign I’ll miss you.’ Vaubel explained that he will be assisting the team during prom weekend for area schools he will move on to other things such as assisting with the Milwaukee Road Heritage Center museum in Montevideo His son Andrew will continue working at Dairy Queen Vaubel agreed that he has wonderful expectations for Dairy Queen and De Boer “I think the business will grow under her lead,” he said The Dairy Queen of Fairmont is open from 11 a.m and is located at 1326 East Blue Earth Avenue in Fairmont the establishment is hiring for managers and crew members Interested individuals can locate more information by visiting the store or contacting (507) 235-5005 2 Sydney Jarvis (McKees Rocks/Montour) - SO 3 Charisma Felix (Las Vegas 4 Avery Tumler (Kings Mills 6 Nicole Pavia (Oxford 38 Sydney Gibson (Painesville 10 Ally Ross (Gladstone 12 Peyton Oliver (Vallejo 16 Makayla White (Swedesboro 17 Layna Bergeron (Johnston 20 Paytyn Neal (Fairmont 22 Reagan McMahon (Mission Viejo 23 Alex DeAngelis (Audubon 26 Makayla Lynard (Cherry Hill 30 Alejandra Tosado (Sparks 32 Lillie Fritz (Chandler 34 Bailey Hebert (Fishers 37 Lauren Rupert (Central Square 41 Lindsey Bolvin (Lorton 39 Megan Revell (Richland 40 Grace Harrick (Union City 11 Kati Rice (Dallas 43 Ariana Fitzpatrick (Burlington N.J./Northern Burlington County Regional H.S.) - SO 36 Kamryn Kameg (Jefferson Hills 24 Marissa Burge (Fairview 15 Kennedy Scharf (Macomb 44 Kristin Baum (Penn Run 1 Kylie Brown (Virginia Beach 31 Amelia Gauvin (Calgary Thanks for visiting Thanks for visiting Thanks for visiting On today’s Beyond The Gates recap: Fairmont Country Club – Main Hall: Leslie pushes Ted to tell Nicole how he knows her Leslie makes a huge scene and once again tells Ted to get to talking Kat tells Mona she feels like she is about to lose her family Eva makes a huge scene saying Leslie isn’t well and locked her in the utility closet Martin and Smitty grab Leslie who is furious with her daughter Nicole stops Martin and Smitty and demands to know what the hell is going on Ted tries to get his wife out but Leslie is going to be heard Garfield Memorial Hospital: Doug is attending to Vanessa who experienced food poisoning He brings her a bear and a balloon from the gift shop Shanice arrives and Vanessa asks why she isn’t at the anniversary party Fairmont Country Club – Foyer: Naomi finally arrives and chats with Jacob on the phone Fairmont Country Club – Main Hall: Nicole says she knows the woman and says her name is “Sherry” not Dana Kat pipes up saying the woman introduced herself to her as “Anna.” Martin remembers seeing her yesterday with Vernon Leslie the woman who recommended Eva for employment She says the two of them live together and cooked up this scheme together Eva says she tried to fix it but was locked in the closet and Carlton confirms Nicole doesn’t understand anything but Leslie says she will soon learn the truth Mona backs up Kat’s story but says she had no idea what was going on Vernon stands up and tells folks they will be getting the woman help and asks folks to make their exit Leslie is having none of it as she calls Vernon out for working his Dupree magic She turns and notes how no one is leaving as everyone wants to know what the Dupree family is hiding Ted pushes her to leave again but Leslie will not be moved Nicole is crying in the background as Leslie refers to Ted as “lover.” Bill and Hayley’s Mansion: Hayley mentions Nicole and Ted’s anniversary party She realizes Bill covered up something for Ted and she begins to guess Hayley realizes Ted cheats and is stunned to realize it was on Nicole Fairmont Country Club – Main Hall: Kat begs Eva to stop Leslie Leslie looks at Martin and asks if he remembers a waitress who always gave him brownies She turns to Nicole and tells the story of the affair Ted told her he would leave his wife until she got pregnant… at the same time as Nicole Ted told her to leave town and made her get an abortion She says she was crushed but doesn’t roll over for anyone She works the room as she implicates Bill in this mess He offered her money to leave town and threatened her with bodily harm if she didn’t go through with the abortion Bill said he would sell her baby on the black market She took his money but moved to Chicago and had the baby A stunned Ted is then formally introduced to his daughter She is surprised to learn her father never knew she was alive Kat calls the whole thing out as a con when Nicole runs out and Martin follows Fairmont Country Club – Foyer: Martin stops him and can’t believe his father had an affair when his mother was recovering from miscarriages Martin remembers the diner and the waitress who has now destroyed his life Martin pushes his father to the sofa and Smitty pulls him from the room Eva walks up but he can’t hear anything she says The two go back and forth when Ted relents agreeing he also doesn’t know what to believe She begs him to believe she never knew the truth when Leslie walks up and wants an apology for the stunt she pulled Leslie walks away and tells her daughter she made the wrong choice Fairmont Country Club – Main Hall: Vernon and Anita tell Mona she is not to blame for anything as it will be Ted’s narrow behind who will be held accountable Anita turns and tells Dani they need to meet up at the mansion to strategize Garfield Memorial Hospital – Vanessa’s Room: Vanessa tells Doug everything about what happened at the anniversary party Vanessa defends Nicole but Doug thinks there may be more to the story Vanessa says some couples have understandings and others work under the assumption of monogamy Doug thinks there is still a possibility Ted and Nicole will get back together Kat can’t believe she spent time defending her father and wants an explanation Ted says he doesn’t know the truth about much of the story He admits he was selfish and immature but it was a long time ago Fairmont Country Club – Foyer: Andre approaches and asks if she is truly Ted and Nicole’s child He realizes they are cousins and takes a seat She wishes she had known her father didn’t know about her before now Andre says she isn’t the only one who could have stopped tonight from happening as Ted told him the truth about everything He says he talked his uncle out of confessing to Nicole Nicole arrives and the confrontation begins Nicole says she isn’t fighting with her for Ted’s affection She goes on to say Ted was different after he met her Leslie says she taught him a few things in the bedroom Leslie terms him as boring and Nicole indicates she isn’t lying She knows Leslie is the woman Ted always needed in his life Leslie toasts Nicole for being woman enough to walk away Previous Beyond The Gates Recap: Eva Works Overtime to Derail Leslie’s Master Plan The family gathers and folks spread the word that Nicole headed home and immediately hit the showers Martin says he confronted his father and knows the affair actually happened Chelsea and Nicole can’t imagine Bill is capable of such horrors Chelsea feels badly for not believing Kat when she went after Eva She wonders if Kat sensed she and Eva were half-sisters Dani thinks it’s more likely she sensed Eva was a messy little bitch Bill gets a message from Naomi and freaks out He tells Hayley everything that happened at the anniversary party Kat returns to the country club and runs into Eva Nicole comes downstairs and Ted apologizes Chelsea got a text from Kat saying her dad was at the house when she left She thinks her father and mother are probably having it out Chelsea goes to answer the door at her grandparents’ house Keep checking back for the latest Beyond The Gates recaps! Every time I write about a Fox wagon in its final parking space, readers wail that it should have been made into a drag race machine This wagon was built with the optional 200-cubic-inch (3.3-liter) pushrod straight-six engine, a powerplant that started being bolted into Fords back in 1963 This one was rated at 91 horsepower and 160 pound-feet A four-speed manual transmission was base equipment This car has the $340 three-speed automatic to go with the $206 six-cylinder engine ($1394 and $845 in 2025 dollars) The big optional expense was the air conditioning I’ve never seen a Fox wagon with 2.3 engine and four-on-the-floor manual Ford offered four sizes of U.S.-market wagons for 1980, if you are willing to accept E-Series passenger vans as genuine wagons. By my calculations, 1964 and 1977 are tied for Peak Wagon in the United States with 47 distinct (non-van) wagon models available here in both of those years The final model year for a true Ford station wagon in the United States was 2019 (if you accept the Flex as a station wagon) or 2007 (if you define the Flex as a crossover SUV) MADD was founded in 1980 and this may well be a sticker from that year I say stuff a 302 in this thing and be a sleeper At an inflation-adjusted 22K sticker price compare it to what you can get today for 22K and it’s probably not so bad I recently bought a new Mazda3 for not much more than that and I’d say it’s a lot better but seeing this not being saved is clearly making me shed some salty tears I miss the 1980 baby blue Fairmont Squire wagon my grandparents had given to my parents when me and my sis were born My family’s ’78 Fairmont wagon was the car I learned to drive on Six-cylinder with a 3-speed floor shifter that year Royal Blue metallic with blue vinyl bench seats Had a 1980 mercury zephyr wagon in the mid-’80’s Loved the car until a mini van total it whie parked I was at Thunderhill here in NorCal road racing my shifter kart We karters were part of the local Shelby race weekend there was a Fairmont wagon with all the Fox body racy bits absolutely whipping around the track That was the standout car to me that weekend the person racing a mid 70s Ranchero was a very close second in that regard… Wagons were some of the most practical vehicles Detroit ever built Hatchbacks have easy access for stashing stuff and moving from here to there but the large frontal area kills the fuel economy Wagons were really a great combination of low frontal area relatively decent fuel economy (if you didn’t get the biggest engine available) (Kinda miss my mom’s parade of Vista Cruisers.) Our families Auto/Tire shop’s Service Manager’s Mom had the Fairmont Squire in Red Glow like the brochure above the Service Manager being a mechanic that liked to tinker If I were doing a drag car I’d go with a Fairmont Futura like Glidden campaigned in a 300/ 4.9 L straight six and use it to haul as intended There has to be quite a few clean ex- U.P.S truck engines out there ready for a simple rebuild It had vinyl seats and no options beyond the radio I learned to drive a manual with that car and even dated in that beast Back when I was in the Navy in the late ’70’s while on leave I rented a brand spanking new ’78 Ford Fairmont coupe from a friendly Ford dealership AM radio and an automatic transmission and not much else I installed a FM radio converter and added a pair of homemade speakers that I threw in the back seat And yes it was slow but considering that I rented it in the dead of a Michigan winter it’s heater kicked out oodles of welcome heat in a what seemed like a matter of seconds And although cars from this era get knocked for shoddy and indifferent build quality it seemed to be contructed to a much higher standard than the cars that Detroit had built just a few years previously and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" Sign up to receive our Daily Driver newsletter Match Recap: Women's Tennis | 3/23/2025 5:17:00 PM | - Tyler McIntosh © 2025 Slippery Rock University Athletics Thanks for visiting Falling tree limbs in Birmingham kills one person There is a heavy police presence on Fairmont Street in Birmingham ABC 33/40 has a crew on the scene and will have more information as it becomes available Get daily business news from the region delivered straight to your inbox Omar Acar outlines how Fairmont is navigating expansion across key global markets — including the Middle East Fairmont Hotels & Resorts continues to adapt its offerings to meet shifting market expectations while preserving its brand identity CEO Omar Acar outlines how Fairmont is navigating expansion across key global markets — including the Middle East — prioritising sustainability and leveraging its historic positioning to remain competitive in today’s evolving hospitality landscape we have been creating special moments for our guests since 1907 We count some of the most storied addresses in the world within our portfolio of hotels each at the vibrant heart of its community and destination we have been the place where history-defining moments happen – the signing of the United Nations Charter in San Francisco John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s ‘bed in for peace’ in Montreal Truman Capote’s Black and White Ball in New York City Our hotels are at the social epicenter of every destination and this continues to be at the core of our brand strategy A Fairmont lobby is one of my favorite places to be You never know who will pass by next – a couple in black tie headed to a gala or celebrating a milestone anniversary colleagues grabbing a drink after a day of meetings a family with young children returning after a day of adventure It’s why a traveller wants to stay in a Fairmont hotel Fairmont has an exceptionally strong pipeline which is significant considering our current portfolio numbers 92 hotels in 30 countries 2025 is a pivotal year of growth for the brand; it’s particularly exciting when we can introduce Fairmont into new destinations we opened our first property along the southern coast of Spain Boasting 153 rooms with stunning Mediterranean views and 158 chic Andalucian-style suites and villas from two 18-hole golf courses and a full golf academy to a spa that is truly unique as it’s the only one in the region with sea-view facilities We also recently unveiled Fairmont Golden Prague a heritage-listed landmark in the heart of Old Town at the gate of the prestigious Parížská Boulevard and on the banks of the Vltava River The design and artworks throughout the hotel really bring to life one of our brand pillars capturing the essence of the local culture and community  We are continuing to see tremendous opportunities across India We opened Fairmont Mumbai in April and will soon debut Fairmont Udaipur Palace both of which offer curated locally- and globally-inspired dining experiences extensive spaces for special events and celebrations Fairmont developments in India are also under way in Agra an exciting new luxury resort on the pristine beaches of Goa  This year marks a number of major milestones as we celebrate several openings in Asia opening on July 1 as Fairmont’s first hotel in Japan is nestled in a prime spot along Tokyo Bay offering breathtaking views of Rainbow Bridge to the east and Tokyo Tower to the west It’s the perfect blend of the city’s lively energy and the peaceful calm of the waterfront making it an ideal retreat in the heart of Tokyo  We round out the year opening the doors at Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit and Fairmont Hanoi in late 2025 introducing the Fairmont brand into Thailand and Vietnam Fairmont Bangkok Sukhumvit brings a new level of comfort and style to the capital’s central business district attracting both leisure guests with a full suite of exclusive amenities but also business travelers as the country’s first fully integrated luxury MICE (Meetings Fairmont Hanoi is located in the center of Vietnam’s dynamic capital city; only a short walk to Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter the 241-room urban resort takes inspiration from the culture and history of Thang Long we have several developments in Saudi Arabia that are going to be truly special Fairmont The Red Sea will be located on an untouched coastline surrounded by islands With 200 rooms and dining concepts that include overwater restaurants this development in particular is an incredible opportunity to connect luxury with sustainability in one of the most remarkable destinations in the world We are very proud of our longstanding work in sustainability – more than three decades ago we made history as one of the first luxury hotel brands to launch a comprehensive environmental program and today we are equally focused on making a positive with a footprint that extends across our in 30 countries we know that we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to leave the world in a better place than we found it which has some of the most ambitious sustainability commitments across the industry Group-wide programs range from the elimination of single-use plastics in the guest experience to major work in the reduction of carbon emissions including Fairmont Royal York’s history-making status as our first Zero Carbon Building which helps us analyze waste trends and adopt more sustainable practices we’ve been particularly focused on the measurement and validation of our efforts including the transition to a market-leading platform for data We are also thrilled to share that we are on track for 100 percent of our Fairmont properties worldwide to receive sustainability certification by a trusted third-party such as Green Key we are exploring certification by Audubon for all our Fairmont managed golf courses and special sustainability accreditation for our events teams with the Events Industry Council  We continue with brand programmes like Bee Sustainable through which we build habitats for critical pollinator bees and harvest our own honey from on-property honeybee hives Many of our hotels are also leading the way with unique green initiatives Fairmont Kea Lani and Fairmont Mayakoba all are active in the reforestation of their local coral reefs Fairmont Singapore grows fresh produce sustainably through its very own aquaponics farm; Fairmont Jakarta implemented a careful food segregation system to repurpose surplus food and minimise organic waste; and Fairmont Makati made a significant investment in an onsite water bottling plant eliminating the usage of 380,000 plastic water bottles per year These efforts reflect our shared mission to demonstrate that luxury and environmental responsibility can coexist seamlessly I believe strongly that this starts and stops with our colleagues We’ve recently completed an in-depth brand repositioning for Fairmont we are empowering our Fairmont colleagues to ‘make special happen’ for our guests This isn’t always the over-the-top gestures what this looks like is different for every guest I had the pleasure of leading our annual global leadership conference for Fairmont last year in Istanbul and after presenting the new brand positioning we invited some of the GMs on stage to share some of their stories with Fairmont from one colleague hand-drawing a map to show the best beaches to find sea turtles distracting a child getting antsy while waiting on his family to finish breakfast; to a welcome note and hotel-baked treats left specifically for a furry friend of a special guest; to navigating off the beaten path to a hard to find but perfect spot to fulfill an amateur ice skater’s dream of skating on wild ice in the middle of the forest To equip our colleagues with the right tools and training to bring this to life in our hotels – knowing our guests envisioning what will make their stay extra special in a meaningful and memorable way – we are rolling out new service culture training for all team members This is a significant commitment worldwide but a critical one in ensuring that our colleagues are able to deliver on our brand promise of turning moments into special memories for every guest that visits We are also able to offer a more bespoke experience through Fairmont’s exclusive hotel-within-a-hotel More than half of our hotels around the globe have this elevated offering and exclusive amenities such as complimentary breakfast and afternoon canapes the Fairmont Gold experience really takes it to another level To take this brand forward is both a tremendous honor and responsibility The key is learning from our past while building upon it Fairmont has long played a role in the most special moments in people’s lives like safely welcoming home the Apollo 11 astronauts from their history-making trek to the moon to those smaller more intimate occasions which are most meaningful to those celebrating such as a milestone birthday or anniversary — we have been there new ways for our guests to celebrate with us This starts with the launch of our new brand campaign this May 2025 And it continues with a spirit of innovation and fun Whether we are exploring groundbreaking new AI technologies or never-before-seen digital solutions for our important events clients making new strides in eco-conscious operations or holistic wellbeing practices or unveiling unexpected brand partnerships there are many more milestone moments to come but we will do so thoughtfully and intentionally one of our greatest strengths is being a connector; this is key to our development strategy With every new signing and development project we make sure it is located at the heart of the destination with the same connection to local culture and community which upholds the tradition set by The Plaza and which has been carried forward with the newest additions to our portfolio The Middle East is a cornerstone of Fairmont’s global growth strategy driven by transformative initiatives such as Saudi Vision 2030 and Dubai Tourism Strategy 2025 These programmes aim to position the region as a premier tourism hub Fairmont aligns its developments with these ambitions exemplified by upcoming property openings such as Fairmont The Red Sea which reflect the region’s growing demand for luxury travel experiences Sustainability continues to be a defining factor with eco-conscious travelers expecting hotels to integrate greener practices into their operations like energy efficiency and waste reduction and cutting-edge technologies with enhanced artificial intelligence and virtual reality will play a pivotal role in enhancing guest experiences Holistic health and wellness also continue to be a key focus such as our partnership with Pillar Wellbeing at Fairmont Doha as well as a deeper appreciation for one’s mental wellbeing social media and word of mouth will continue to shape travel decisions making it imperative for brands to build authentic connections with their audiences across different platforms On the development side, Fairmont continues to lean into our expertise in branded residential segment seeing an increasing appetite for accommodations that offer the service design and lifestyle of a trusted brand and luxury hotel Fairmont is uniquely poised to meet all these demands and positive impact to set the course for a successful 2025 and beyond Advertiser DisclosureAdvertiser Disclosure 192 Published Articles 943 Edited Articles 350 Published Articles 1017 Edited Articles Opinions and recommendations are ours alone The offer mentioned below has expired and is no longer available Luxury hotel brand Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is offering a 25% discount on hotel stays plus a 5% additional discount for ALL-Accor Live Limitless members These discounts are part of the hotel’s Spring Saver Flash Sale but you’ll need to book soon if you’re interested Fairmont Hotels has launched its Spring Saver Flash Sale, which offers Accor Live Limitless (ALL) loyalty program members a 25% + 5% discount at hotels across the Americas for a limited time reference Fairmont Spring Saver or code 020603 While Fairmont is part of the Accor Live Limitless loyalty program, redeeming rewards can be a bit more complicated than with traditional points-based hotel programs. Because of that, paying with cash, especially if you can snag a discount, might be the simpler (and more rewarding) option To see the full list of participating resorts, visit the Accor and Fairmont Spring Sale page and then scroll to the bottom to find the downloadable PDF file Once you’ve found a property that you are interested in be sure to log in to your Accor Live Limitless loyalty account first Fairmont has some beautiful properties across the Americas you can save up to 30% on prepaid stays through October 1 This is a great way to score a discount at these popular hotels where award stays can be relatively hard to book Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter We respect your privacy. 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Google's privacy policy  and terms of service  apply OFFER ENDING SOONChase Sapphire Preferred® Card LIMITED TIME TRAVEL OFFERThe Business Platinum Card® from American Express BEST LOUNGE ACCESSThe Platinum Card® from American Express Privacy Policy | All Guides | Terms & Conditions | Web Accessibility Policy | Cookie Policy travel information and ancillary information concerning travel and credit cards The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial LLC uses reasonable efforts to maintain accurate information on the site — and prior to applying for any credit card offers found on UpgradedPoints.com all visitors should review other features of such credit cards including but not limited to interest rates and should determine the suitability of such credit cards considering their own individual financial position as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases Editorial Disclosure: The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned comments and analyses are the responsibility of the author(s) and not any Advertiser or credit card issuer FAIRMONT, W.Va. — A 65-yearold man has been killed in a Fairmont tree trimming accident, according to deputies from the Marion County Sherff’s Department. Monday around 11:30 a.m. the accident was reported on Ridgeview Drive, off Big Tree Drive. Jackie James Hess, Jr., was trimming pine trees when he fell out of the tree. EMS workers responded and a HealthNet helicopter was dispatched, but Hess died at the scene. Share on LinkedInShare on LinkedIn freestar.config.enabled_slots.push({ placementName: "wajr_medrec_top" Three arrests have been made by the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) in connection with the fatal stabbing that killed one and injured another last weekend Officers responded to a report of a stabbing following after a verbal altercation at The Bungalow part of the Fairmont Hotel located at 101 Wilshire Blvd officers found two male victims suffering stab wounds and consequently personnel from both the Police Department and Fire Department provided immediate medical aid before transporting both victims to a local hospital 31-year-old Oscar Alfredo Gonzalez from Santa Maria The second victim was treated for non-life-threatening injuries detectives arrested two suspects on Monday all of whom have extensive criminal histories were identified as Alfredo Quinteros (41) and Ricardo Quintero (42) – brothers from South Gate – and Rogelio Arenas (32) of Los Angeles The charges and bail are made up as follows:• Alfredo Quinteros (DOB: 12-15-1983); 187 PC – Homicide; No Bail• Ricardo Quintero Jr (DOB: 08-30-1982); 32 PC – Accessory; No Bail• Rogelio Arenas (DOB: 08-27-1992) 187 PC – Homicide; No Bail This remains an active investigation, and detectives are continuing to gather evidence. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact Detective Lucero, Sergeant Lozano or the Watch Commander (available 24 hours) at 310-458-8427 Building on the strength of our teams and of our holistic ecosystem of leading brands personalized services & expert solutions we break new ground to reimagine hospitality and inspire new ways to experience the world Another Record Year: Full-Year 2024 Results in Key Figures NEW YORK, April 1, 2025 – Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the world-leading hospitality group Accor is delighted to announce its first property in Japan - Fairmont Tokyo - is set to open on July 1 Fairmont Tokyo promises a vibrant social scene and expansive high-rise city and bay views from the heart of the Shibaura district a historic gathering place dating back more than four centuries to the Edo period building upon Fairmont’s legacy of sitting at the social epicenter of timeless destinations worldwide In celebration of Fairmont Tokyo’s grand opening, guests making a reservation from April 1 - July 24, 2025, for stays between July 1 - Sept. 30, 2025, will receive hotel credits worth JPY 10,000 per room per night. Reservations can be made at www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/tokyo/fairmont-tokyo.html Boasting a prime central location for exploring the wonders of Japan’s capital city Fairmont Tokyo sits just 13 minutes from Haneda Airport and six minutes from both the Tokyo and Shinagawa Stations Visitors can delight in the tranquility of the Shibaura district with its many picturesque canals and lush gardens experience iconic surrounding landmarks such as the majestic Zojoji Temple or take advantage of the hotel’s seamless connectivity to Tokyo’s many attractions The property itself showcases breathtaking views of both the serene Tokyo Bay and the glittering Tokyo metropolis from its elevated position on floors 35 through 43 of the ‘BLUE FRONT SHIBAURA’ South Tower Fairmont Tokyo brings to life Fairmont’s dynamic spirit The distinctive guest experience begins upon entering the 35th floor lobby where visitors will be greeted by an abundance of lush greenery seamlessly opening onto breathtaking outdoor terraces The west-facing terrace features a relaxation pool and sundeck where guests can unwind and indulge all day followed by sunset cocktails with stunning views of Tokyo Tower The east-facing terrace features an observation deck with seating area and fireplace overlooking the serene Tokyo Bay A collection of five restaurants and two bars will tempt visitors with bold flavors and artisanal cocktails Venues include a brasserie serving wood-fired pizzas meats and seafood; a lobby lounge which melds French and Japanese café culture; and artfully designed spaces serving traditional Japanese styles of cuisine blending an authentic approach with modern influences every experience celebrates culinary creativity Guests can expect top-class amenities and wellness offerings at the highly anticipated Fairmont Spa and Health Club on the 35th floor Unique spa treatments inspired by the destination feature a blend of Fairmont’s signature oils and locally inspired products Guests can decompress in the 20-meter indoor infinity pool lounge on the outdoor sundeck by the relaxation pool or rejuvenate in the soothing saunas - all while enjoying uninterrupted views of the city skyline “We cannot wait to invite you for an unforgettable experience at Fairmont Tokyo starting with the incredible panoramic views from every windowed corner and terrace I’d like to personally welcome you to take one of only six seats for a highly personalized experience at the Chef’s Sushi bar; to enjoy the tradition of afternoon tea from a perch high above Tokyo Bay; or to discover the hotel’s speakeasy bar for a rare spirit and vinyl record listening experience For a moment of respite from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo there is no better spot than the sundeck and relaxation pool,” shared Omer Acar “There is much to be excited about with the opening of Fairmont Tokyo we have had the opportunity to bring to life a celebratory experience that marries Tokyo’s heritage and culture with a sense of innovation and modernity create a transitory space between the interior and exterior Guest bathrooms enhance a calming sense of serenity with the use of natural stone textures alongside Fairmont guest favorite Thoughtfully designed by internationally acclaimed BAR Studio the hotel’s interiors blend the city’s elegant heritage with modern design showcasing rich textures and subtle cues referencing traditional Japanese techniques such as weaving and ‘Kintsugi’ in the property’s art and textiles The result beautifully encapsulates the vibrancy of the city while paying homage to Japan's rich artisanal heritage Fairmont Tokyo will offer an elevated experience with Fairmont’s exclusive hotel-within-a-hotel From pre-arrival communications to tailored on- and off-property experiences the dedicated Fairmont Gold concierge team delivers a heightened level of care and customization Special benefits include private check-in and lounge and signature amenities such as complimentary breakfast Personalized turn-down rituals complete the experience bespoke furnishings and curated artworks alongside premiere amenities and access to the Fairmont Gold Lounge Given its prime location and sweeping vistas Fairmont Tokyo is ideal for events from grand galas to international conferences and business meetings The Fairmont Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 1,200 guests making it one of the largest in Tokyo The Sea on the 43rd floor features an open kitchen concept and 120-inch video screen offering a unique setting for both meetings and special occasions bathed in natural light with stunning panoramic views and a pre-function area that extends onto a terrace Additional meeting and event spaces can be flexed to meet any group’s needs “We are delighted to unveil Fairmont’s debut property in Japan nestled in the dynamic Shibaura district of Tokyo This vibrant neighborhood pulses with energy blending rich heritage and culture - a perfect match for the iconic Fairmont brand The essence of Tokyo’s energy and legacy will be woven into every corner of this prestigious hotel reflected in the unique spaces and unforgettable guest experiences we are creating.” As part of Accor’s unrivaled luxury portfolio Fairmont Hotels & Resorts continues to inspire with destinations that celebrate culture With Fairmont currently operating 11 properties across Asia including Fairmont Jaipur Fairmont Seoul and six hotels across China Fairmont Tokyo sets to enhance this portfolio as the brand continues to make special moments happen throughout the region Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has a notable pipeline of more than 30 hotels under development having recently debuted Fairmont La Hacienda Costa Del Sol along the southern coast of Spain a booking platform and loyalty program providing access to a wide variety of rewards members can access an unrivaled choice of stays from more than 45 Accor brands in 110 countries ALL goes beyond traditional rewards programs creating a connected lifestyle ecosystem that transforms hospitality ALL enriches members’ everyday lives with a diverse array of experiences worldwide from local cultural experiences to major sports and music events at venues such as the Accor Arena in Paris and Accor Stadium in Sydney The program offers 100+ partnerships across travel Aligned with Accor’s strong commitment to sustainability and responsible hospitality ALL actively promotes eco-friendly practices through meaningful experiences and initiatives allowing members to donate their Reward points to support impactful causes resulting in an impressive 11 million points donated To further drive positive change worldwide rewarding members with Reward points while significantly reducing hotels’ environmental footprint - saving water and extending the life of sheets and towels Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is renowned for the international luxury hospitality brand’s unrivalled portfolio of more than 92 extraordinary hotels where grand moments of life heartfelt pleasures and personal milestones are celebrated and remembered long after any visit since 1907 Fairmont has created magnificent rich with character and deeply connected to the history culture and community of its destinations – renowned addresses such as The Plaza in New York City Fairmont Doha and Fairmont The Palm in Dubai  Fairmont hotels are the social epicenters of their cities—iconic gathering places where people Fairmont also takes great pride in its pioneering approach to hospitality and leadership in sustainability and responsible tourism practices a world leading hospitality group counting over 5,600 properties throughout more than 110 countries a lifestyle loyalty program and booking platform providing access to a wide variety of rewards fairmont.com |  all.com | group.accor.com Director of Marketing & Communication - AEMA Myriam.Sedki@Fairmont.com  / +971 50 464 25 76 June Heung - June@companioncommunications.com Sneha Rupani-Nagpal - Sneha@companioncommunications.com For Room BookingsPhone: +81 3 4218 7277Email: reservations.tokyo@fairmont.com Booking Link: https://www.fairmont.com/reservations/select-room/?Address: BLUE FRONT SHIBAURA TOWER S For Wedding Inquiries & ReservationsPhone: +81 3 4218 7260 (10:00–19:00, closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays)Email: celebrations.tokyo@fairmont.com Email: gatherings.tokyo@fairmont.com © 2025 Accor, powered by epresspack.