Chapter 8 - The charity hotel contract
A contract with the Alden Crown Hotel created the first serious civil problem.
Valeria negotiated a two-year arrangement for foundation banquets.
The foundation board approved venue usage.
Normal.
But attached was a separate hospitality agreement.
Party:
Valeria Sloane Consulting LLC.
Benefits:
Luxury suite availability.
Travel allowance.
Annual hosting stipend.
Wardrobe sponsorship.
Total estimated value:
$146,000 per year.
The hotel believed these were compensation for:
“Official Drake family hosting services associated with foundation events.”
Had the board approved?
No.
Had I?
No.
Did the hotel know that?
They relied on Valeria’s representations.
Then an email from hotel counsel before signing:
Please confirm Ms. Sloane is authorized to speak for family hospitality matters.
Valeria replied:
Yes. Celeste Drake designated me personally before her passing, and Mr. Drake has continued that arrangement.
The second half was arguable.
I had allowed her to coordinate.
The first half overstated.
Then:
Is there written authorization?
Valeria sent Celeste’s one-event email.
Not altered.
But without explanation that it referred to one Saturday dinner years earlier.
The hotel read it as evidence of designation.
There was the pattern.
May you like
Real documents.
False scope.
