Oregon has long been a magnet for makers and artisans of many kinds. Among them are chocolatiers, cheesemakers, specialty fruit and nut growers and manufacturers of everything from colorful blankets to organic flour. Many of these makers open their doors to visitors, providing insightful behind-the-scenes tours and opportunities for tasting and learning how the products are made.

UNITE HERE Local 1, which represents Chicago’s hospitality workers union, has ratified a contract with Marriott International. The Chicago union says it has reached an agreement with Sheraton, W City Center, W Lakeshore, Westin Michigan Avenue, Westin River North, JW Marriot and Hotel Blake.

Convention Data Services (CDS) promoted Dave Wuethrich to chief operating officer. In this new position within CDS, will oversees all operational aspects of events, from kick off to post conference.

Jay Marsh joined Steelcase Event Experiences as a business development consultant. In this role, he is responsible for driving new business nationwide, with a focus on the East Coast for the strategic space design company.

Sarah Bondar has been promoted to chief operating officer of The Charles Group. In this position, she oversees business and staffing operations as well as managing key corporate and not-for-profit client accounts. Bondar joined the team at The Charles Group in 2013 and brings more than 14 years of experience in planning events and meetings for various corporate and not-for-profit clients to this new role.

Kendra P. Clough has been appointed director of conference services for the Doug Pitcock ’49 Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center. The Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property opened in August.

Kylie Kendall has been appointed to convention services manager for Visit Wichita. In this role, she will assist the sales team in ensuring events are a success. Kendall will be the main point of contact for corporate event planners and association officials.

North Carolina takes the idea of outdoor adventure and runs with it. Depending on when your group visits, you might be snow-skiing or waterskiing, biking or boating, sitting by the fire or by a fishing pole. The possibilities are out there.

The Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau (DMCVB) promoted Andrea Cadotto and Sheila R. Neal, CASE to the newly created roles of associate directors of sales. Both will continue their sales responsibilities and now also lead a team of sales managers and coordinators.

Dan Dolan was named director of sales & marketing for The Abbey Resort and Avani Spa. The Benchmark Resorts & Hotels property is located in Lake Geneva, Wis.