Editor’s Letter
Our cover story this fall is about one of the true veterans of the on-premise world, Bradley Moore, Vice President, Food and Beverage Operations, Interstate Hotels & Resorts. Bradley has been with IHR for 25 years and continues to create innovative programs for their 430 hotels.
Our professional guest writer this issue is Kelly Magyarics. Kelly has scripted a feature for us entitled “Cool Weather Creations.” It’s full of seasonal recipes and ideas for you to use.
Tony Abou-Ganim writes about Tales of the Cocktail through the eyes of his character, George, in “The Adventures of George.”
In our fall Spotlight Interview, we feature Laddie Weiss, Co-Founder and Event Director of the VIBE conference. Laddie gives us his insight about how this huge event is organized.
Our “Take 5” interview is with Rich Povak, Smart Bar USA. Rich explains their innovative automated cocktail dispensing system.
Our cover shot is by photographer James Jackson at the Hamilton Crown Plaza in Washington, D.C.
IMI Spotlight: Hilary Leister, Senior Beverage Coordinator, IMI Agency – Interstate Hotels & Resorts
Hilary Leister is a native of northern Virginia and has lived there most of her life. She graduated from American University in Washington, D.C. with degrees in print journalism and marketing. Before coming to IMI over three years ago, she worked as a Senior Beer Buying Specialist at Total Wine & More. In recent years, she passed the Introductory Level Sommelier Course and the Cicerone Certified Beer Server exam.
What are your responsibilities with IMI / Interstate Hotels & Resorts?
I work full-time in Interstate’s corporate office in Arlington, Virginia (one of the IMI “imbeds”). I help manage communication with our beverage partners and have a hand in all of Interstate’s F&B promotions, programs, conferences, databases and other fun initiatives.
What do you like best about working with IMI and Interstate Hotels & Resorts?
My entire career thus far has been in the alcoholic beverage industry. I love the great people I’ve had the opportunity to learn from, and I have a passion for developing a deeper knowledge of our products.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
I’m a devoted runner and an avid reader! On the weekends, you can find me hopping around northern Virginia’s wineries and breweries or walking my dog, Meadow.
What is your favorite travel destination?
I love traveling to and exploring new cities. Recent trips I’ve enjoyed were to London, Austin and Toronto.
What is your favorite food?
Such a hard question for a foodie! I always love great Mexican, Italian or Japanese cuisine.
What is your favorite adult beverage?
Beer: Saison. Wine: Pinot Noir. Spirits: Bourbon.
One thing you can’t live without?
Camelbak water bottles. You’ll never see me without one!
