On March 26 at approximately 8:30 p.m., the Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside Hotel will leave guests in the dark, literally, but for a good cause. The hotel will turn off its lights in observance of Earth Hour, a worldwide event organized by the World Wildlife Fund to send a powerful global message about environmental awareness and caring for the planet.
Earth Hour gives the Sheraton Portsmouth the opportunity to take part in the biggest ever global event in the fight against climate change, and to demonstrate to our associates, guests and suppliers just how important simple actions can be towards saving energy and reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. Earth Hour symbolizes that working together each of us at the hotel can have an effect on the health of our planet.
To ensure that the Sheraton Portsmouth's support towards Earth Hour 2011 is successful and a safe experience for guests, the hotel will be sharing energy-saving measures during this one-hour period that will include the turning off of exterior signage lighting and dimming or turning off all non-essential interior lighting. Candlelight will be used in appropriate public areas under strict supervision of qualified associates and security.
To further show their commitment to this worthy initiative, the Sheraton Portsmouth will have a candlelit check in between 8:30 and 9:30, which will be as efficient and quick as any other day. The hotel will welcome guests with "Infused Water" and a complimentary bar of "dark" Lindt chocolate at check in. The culinary team will put its talents to work, offering a special menu in Harbor's Edge restaurant to include local, green and sustainable menu items. Hotel and local patrons alike will be able to enjoy scenic views of the harbor in Riverwatch Lounge while enjoying snacks and Earth Hour martini specials that include a sustainable vodka "ECO-tini".
The Sheraton Portsmouth Hotel is inviting everyone to follow our Earth Hour 2011 initiative on the Hotel's Facebook Fan Page. Visit www.earthhour.org.