Business Digest: Longview hotels receive brand awards | Local

Longview hotels receive brand awards

Three hotels that are part of the Loop 281 Lodging Group in Longview received some of the highest honors available in their respective hotel brands in 2024.

Loop 281 Lodging Group is owned by Anup Patel and his family and includes five hotels in Longview and one in Kilgore.

Kayla Smith is general manager of the Courtyard by Marriott in Longview, which received the top Marriot award — the Chairman’s Award — as well as additional awards in 2021, 2022 and 2023. 

Nikki Carter is general manager at the Holiday Inn and Infinity Event Center in Longview. The IHG hotel won the Torchbearer Award for 2024. 

The Staybridge Suites in Longview, where Vickie Quillen is general manager, also won the Torchbearer award for 2024.

Kilgore ISD names Teachers of the Year

Kilgore ISD named Kristen Moss as the 2025 Elementary Teacher of the Year and Kaitlyn Brisendine as the 2025 Secondary Teacher of the Year. The women were selected for their exceptional dedication, passion, and impact in the classroom and beyond, the district reported.

Moss, a third -rade English and language arts and social studies teacher at Chandler Elementary, was earlier selected as the campus’ Teacher of the Year.

Brisendine, an eighth-grade math and algebra teacher at Kilgore Middle School, also was selected as her campus’ Teacher of the Year. She serves as head of the math department at Kilgore Middle School.

“Both Ms. Moss and Mrs. Brisendine represents the very best of Kilgore ISD,” said Dr. Andy Baker, district superintendent. “Their passion for teaching, commitment to excellence, and deep care for their students make them truly deserving of this honor.”

Acme Brick recognizes employees

Acme Brick in Longview recognized two employees this month for their longevity with the company.

Carol Williamson has worked with the company for 20 year, while Lee Wallace has been there for 25 years.

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