My new year’s resolution is to be more positive and to look at things as a glass half full instead of half empty.
Jhanelle Russell, Manager of Food Safety and Compliance
Professionally (and a bit personally) I think one of my greatest moments was being on location for the CrunchTime GoLive at Ft. Pierce. It might sound silly, but after having been involved in so many meetings, planning, problem-solving and observing the hard-work and dedication of ALL the team to arrive at that moment – it was a feeling of excitement, relief and accomplishment.
The entire Project Apollo transformation has been such a Herculean effort. We continue to evolve the outcomes, which should be the case, but the initial effort of everyone to see it through has been incredible to watch and support.
Personally … well, I will go with the very end of 2022 – NYE. Our oldest son proposed to his girlfriend. There was never any pressure from us – but they are so good together. We are excited about their future.
I’m not a fan of “resolutions”, so a few things I’m hoping to make better habits of … Personally: physical movement – walking more, exercising – re-establishing a habit of that to feel great!
Professionally – turn out more ways for Areas associates to learn and develop, whether individually, with their teams, as leaders!
Michele Garcia, Director of Learning and Development
Seeing FLTP fully reopened and staffed and the many improvements we have accomplished at MCO and MIA. Also, my firstborn daughter started Pre-K!
In 2023, I want to grow my new region, find a GM for Indy, grow my career with Areas, and buy a property in Orlando.
Filinto Galban, Regional Director, Airport Operations
Hearing from a guest that “they didn’t think they were in an airport restaurant” while dining at The Cook and Ox was epic!
In 2023, our goal is to serve our operators better and create fabulous guest experiences.
Steve Byrne, VP Concepts & Standards
On a professional basis, Joining Areas was a great moment in 2022. The Business Development team has been very welcoming and has made for a great beginning.
On a personal basis, experiencing my daughter’s graduation and watching her deliver the graduation speech for Georgetown Visitation High School was a great moment.
In 2023 my resolutions revolve around my new position and the many challenges that lie ahead. There will be significant Business opportunities that, when successful, will help the company prosper. My personal goal is to capture at least 50 million in new annualized revenue in 2023.
On a personal basis I want to ensure that I schedule time when traveling to make sure I eat right and exercise to ensure optimum health and stamina. I want to lose at least 25 pounds.
Tom Keon, Director of Business Development
Getting promoted to General Manager in February 2022 at Turkey Lake Service Plaza.
Chris Sanchez, General Manager Turkey Lake
My accomplishment of the year was joining Areas at ORD. In 2023, I would like to turn ORD around.
Pascal Castiau, General Manager
In my case, 2022 was a great year at Areas. It was very intense I would say, because while I was trying to build a solid professional relationship with really talented people and teams, we were transitioning from legacy systems to a whole new world of tools, applications, and systems to improve our operations, financial management, business control…you name it.
With that said, it’s really hard to mark a specific moment as the best one, however, I do remember SAP Go-live (11/01/2021 FY2022), with particular happiness, and also CrunchTime Go-live at Fort Pierce, which was a huge milestone for the entire Areas family.
For 2023 I’m personally aiming to continue to strengthen my professional relationship with my colleagues and users in general, deepen my technical knowledge within SAP and WEPEX to continue providing reliable support to end users and get more involved with new tools and applications our company has been implementing.
Miguel Garcia, SAP Specialist for Accounting
This one is easy – the birth of our son, Lorenzo Peter, on 7/26/2022. Although we moved into our new house after a long time of saving, waiting and planning, it doesn’t come close to the excitement of welcoming our son into the world!
I think most people reading will agree that 2022 was a blur. In 2023, I’m going to enjoy more of the moment and really take things in. Also, I’d like to get back in shape for the summer soccer season. Now that I’m in my mid-30s, the game isn’t as forgiving as it used to be. So, a focus on exercise and good mental health is a must!
Sal Mendola III, CCC, Director of Brands & Concept Development
Accepting my position with Areas and then having the privilege of working with so many amazing, talented team members. Also being part of the brilliant, creative, and innovative thinking that transpired over this past year and able to watch it play out for us in 2023. Very exciting!
Best moments: my younger daughter’s marriage to her soul mate after their 10-year courtship; my older daughter’s engagement to her long-lost friend after their brief reunion.
In 2023 I will continue elevating the Areas brand and expanding our visibility. Importantly, I will push My Areas to become a stronger communications conduit for us. It’s important that you keep sharing your stories because we love publishing and posting them! I will also be taking advantage of the wonderful growth and development resources we have available to us at Areas.
At a personal level, I hope to spend time with grandbabies that don’t exist yet but I’m praying for them to be!
Pauline Armbrust, VP of Marketing and Communications
My best moment was placing Areas USA LAX on the recruitment map in LA County. The results were there and many offers were extended. Familywise, keeping it as strong as possible no matter what things came our way.
In 2023 I definitely want to read and learn more as things are changing in our world daily.
Rachel Maldonado Centeno, Sr. Manager of Human Resources
Some of my best moments at Areas are getting to meet people from all walks of life. For example, from France, England, and California. During their quick stop here at the Maryland House I greet and welcome them and engage in a quick conversation and always end the conversation with, “have a safe trip.” I really love and enjoy this part of my Job.
My top New year’s resolution here at the Maryland House as an Assistant Concept Manager is to build a team where we are capable of managing the tasks at hand, carrying out and surpassing our goals, which as a team we can do.
In addition, I hope to become a Concept Manager to further help Areas be more welcoming and successful. I know some days will be more challenging than others, but my motto is that the challenging day will come to an end; it doesn’t last forever. I love my job and want to make other team members develop a love for what they do, which is critical in life. That is one of the ways someone can be successful and their hours at work go by unthinkable. Thank you for the opportunity Areas!
Wendy Lewis, Assistant Concept Manager
2022 forced me to care for myself a little more and give myself the time and space needed in order to rest and recuperate. It was a very tough year, however, I am proud of what I overcame this year personally. Furthermore, my growth professionally with Areas.
I have set intentions for myself for this year. I would like to continue growing professionally and continue to let go of what does not serve me and keep close to my passions which feed my soul. Lastly, continue being the best mother I could be to my two (not so babies) babies.
Jessica Hernandez, FDK Manager
For me, the best moment was joining the Areas team in March 2022.
I will continue to support my boss and the LAX team to achieve more accomplishments in 2023.
Linda Ying Yu, Sr. Business Analyst
My best moment this past year was getting my well-paying job at Areas and making new friends. I’m looking forward to moving to a higher position to bring more business to the company!!
Tobias Stevens, Assistant Concept Manager