Breaking Meetings News: Hospitality News Updates

Visit Atlantic City Celebrates A 2025 Fueled by Tourism Growth

Feb. 4, 2026—Visit Atlantic City held its Annual Meeting in Review, highlighting tourism in 2026 and sharing plans to further the city’s growth in 2026.

In 2025, the city hosted 205 meetings, conventions and tradeshows and 533,242 attendees. This comes nearly one year after the integration of the DO AC brand under the Visit Atlantic City name change. In early 2025, the city consolidated its leisure and convention marketing efforts under Visit Atlantic City, a move Eric Scheffler, executive director for the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority and chairman of the board of directors for Visit Atlantic City, called “transformative.”

“As a destination, we were thrilled to see the success of the unification of our leisure and meetings marketing efforts,” said Gary Musich, President and CEO of Visit Atlantic City. “The integration gave our team the opportunity to think more creatively and fueled meaningful tourism growth across the destination and region as we established efficient partnerships and collaborations.”

Smart Meetings says: Bleisure has proven to be a powerful marketing strategy for destinations and event promoters.

Fort Worth Unveils Phase 2 Plans of Convention Center Transformation

Feb. 2, 2026—With the completion of Phase 1 of Fort Worth Convention Center’s renovation, the city is moving forward with Phase 2.

The second phase of this renovation will execute a convention building in place of the 1968 arena in the form of a transparent four-story building, a plaza with green space connected to General Worth Square and terraces with downtown views. The arena will be demolished in early 2027 and completion of Phase 2 is set for early 2030.

“The Phase 2 expansion positions Fort Worth to not only attract more conventions and meetings, but also to deepen engagement with downtown businesses and residents,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. “As a key part of the transformation of the southeast quadrant of downtown, the new center will anchor a hub of economic growth and higher-education partnerships, and its beautiful design will showcase the Modern West brand that has helped make Fort Worth a stand-out destination among our peer cities.”

Smart Meetings says: A modernized meeting space affords meeting planners more options for meeting, whether indoor or outdoor.

Bahamas Tourism Hits Record High With 12.5M Visitors

Jan. 29, 2026—The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation announced that the destination welcomed a record 12.5 million visitors in 2025, the highest total in its history. Visitor arrivals grew 11.4% year over year, surpassing 2024’s record and exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels by more than 70%.

“Reaching 12.5 million visitors is a defining achievement for The Bahamas and a clear signal of confidence in our destination, our leadership and our tourism strategy,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation I. Chester Cooper. “Tourism continues to be a powerful engine of economic growth, delivering jobs, investment and opportunity for Bahamians across our islands.”

Cruise tourism drove much of the growth, accounting for 86.5% of total arrivals, while air arrivals remained strong with nearly 1.7 million visitors in 2025. Several islands posted record performance, including Abaco and Grand Bahama, which surpassed 1 million visitors for the first time in more than two decades.

Smart Meetings says: This kind of sustained growth signals strong airlift, cruise capacity and on-island investment. For planners, it means more options, stronger infrastructure and continued momentum for meetings and incentive programs across The Bahamas.

Accor Debuts Branded App Inside ChatGPT

Jan. 29, 2025—Accor is stepping to the forefront of hospitality tech with the launch of its ALL Accor app within ChatGPT, becoming one of the first global hotel groups to integrate its booking platform directly into the AI-powered environment.

The new functionality allows travelers to search Accor hotels using natural language, specifying destinations, dates and guest details, while viewing both public and ALL loyalty-member rates. Users can also explore room types, amenities and location details before being redirected to Accor’s secure booking platform to complete reservations. The ChatGPT app is available in more than 20 languages across markets where ChatGPT apps are supported.

The launch underscores Accor’s broader AI strategy to meet travelers where they already plan and research trips, enhancing personalization and convenience while expanding global visibility for its portfolio.

Smart Meetings says: Meeting profs might find that AI-powered discovery and booking tools shorten the research cycle, surface relevant properties faster and make it easier to compare options—saving time while delivering more tailored event experiences.

Baltimore Convention Center Earns Gold-Level EIC Sustainability Certification

The Baltimore Convention Center has achieved Gold-level certification under the Events Industry Council’s (EIC) Sustainable Event Standards, marking a significant milestone in the venue’s sustainability journey and reinforcing its position as a leader among large convention centers on the East Coast.

Announced Jan. 27 by the Events Industry Council, the certification recognizes the Baltimore Convention Center’s environmental and social responsibility practices, including energy efficiency initiatives, waste reduction strategies and sustainable design efforts. The center earned Silver-level certification in 2025, making this year’s designation a notable step forward in just 12 months.

“This certification reflects how deeply sustainability is embedded into the Baltimore Convention Center’s operations and culture,” said Mac Campbell, executive director and CVE of the BCC. “Building on last year’s achievement, our team has continued to make meaningful investments in sustainable practices that benefit our guests, our partners and the broader Baltimore community.”

The EIC Sustainable Event Standards were developed through a global collaborative process involving subject matter experts across the meetings and events ecosystem. The standards provide a comprehensive framework and measurable criteria to help venues and organizers implement and evaluate sustainable practices at every stage of an event.

Located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the BCC offers 300,000 square feet of contiguous exhibition space, approximately 85,000 square feet of meeting space across 50 rooms and a 36,672-square-foot ballroom. The venue also plays a significant role in the local economy, employing more than 150 people, with nearly three-quarters living in Baltimore City.

Smart Meetings says: Gold-level EIC certification gives planners confidence that sustainability claims are backed by real metrics—making it easier to align large-scale events with good governance goals without sacrificing scale, flexibility or attendee experience.

Outernet London, Legends Global Strike Long-Term Partnership

The United Kingdom’s most visited cultural attraction, Outernet London, has entered a long-term partnership with Legends Global, the global venues and hospitality powerhouse, signaling the next phase of growth for the immersive media and entertainment district.

Under the agreement, Legends Global will provide venue management services across all Outernet spaces, including operations, programming, premium sales, partnerships and food and beverage. The partnership covers Outernet’s headline venues, including HERE, the 2,000-capacity live entertainment space—the largest built in central London since the 1940s—and grassroots venue The Lower Third, along with the district’s cutting-edge digital environments.

Outernet is best known for its massive, high-resolution digital canvases, anchored by The Now Building, which features four-story, wraparound screens spanning 23,000 square feet. With more than 80 million annual visitors and a global media reach topping 1.5 billion, the district has quickly become a magnet for audiences, brands and creators.

For Legends Global, the deal expands its London footprint, which already includes Olympia London, Wembley Arena and Emirates Stadium. Leaders from both organizations emphasized the partnership’s focus on enhancing guest experience, expanding music and cultural programming and unlocking new brand and sponsorship opportunities.

Smart Meetings says: This partnership is good news for meeting planners because it brings world-class operational expertise to one of London’s most innovative venues—opening the door to more seamless, tech-forward and highly engaging event experiences.

Calgary Convention Centre Announces Action Plan with Indigenous Peoples

The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) has reached a landmark moment for the meetings industry with the launch of Canada’s first Indigenous ReconciliAction Plan by a convention centre.

Announced Jan. 14, 2026, the multi-year plan formalizes CTCC’s commitment to reconciliation and sets a new benchmark for how large venues across North America can engage Indigenous communities with intention and accountability. For the CTCC—Canada’s first purpose-built convention centre, opened more than 50 years ago—the initiative signals a forward-looking evolution in how convention services intersect with community impact.

The framework, known as P.A.T.H., is built around four pillars:

• Partnering with Indigenous leaders and knowledge keepers
• Acknowledging the centre’s role in welcoming global visitors to Treaty 7 and Métis Nation lands
• Teaching cultural awareness to staff and guests
• Heightening long-term relationships through employment and Indigenous business opportunities

Beyond policy, the plan is already shaping the attendee experience. The CTCC has commissioned Indigenous artists to create original works throughout the building, hosts an Indigenous Art Market during the Calgary Stampede, and offers a Client Indigenous Program that connects planners with Elders, performers and artists for authentic program integration.

As President and CEO Kurby Court said, the initiative is about “doing what’s right” to foster balance, belonging and equity.

Smart Meetings says: This is good news for planners seeking venues that reflect their values—CTCC is proving reconciliation can be thoughtfully embedded into meetings, not just acknowledged from the stage.

Soundings Appointed to CSU AI Workforce Acceleration Board

Jan. 22, 2025—Soundings founder and CEO and California State University (CSU) alum Tracy Judge has been appointed to the CSU AI Workforce Acceleration Board.

The board includes executives from major organizations in the tech field, including OpenAI, IBM, Adobe, LinkedIn, Google, AWS and Intel, along with CSU representatives.

“I am honored to join a board that is deeply committed to preparing our workforce for the future of work in an AI-driven world,” said Judge. “This role allows me to contribute to a cross-sector effort, share insights with the business events industry, and help create new opportunities for professionals, students and the Soundings Thrive community as work continues to evolve.”

Soundings’ key initiatives, such as identifying barriers to AI adoption in the events industry and helping teams assess AI readiness, are suited for this new appointment.

Smart Meetings says: The appointment of Judge, with her desire to drive AI-related change in the industry, comes at a crucial time, as AI is currently changing how the industry operates.

Visit Anaheim Confirms 142 Events for 2026

Jan. 22, 2026—Visit Anaheim, the destination marketing organization for Anaheim and Garden Grove, announced it has secured 142 conventions, meetings and events in 2026, which are projected to generate $1.74 billion in economic impact.

These bookings include 76 meetings and 66 conventions, several of which are celebrating anniversaries in the region, including NAMM’s 50th anniversary, Natural Products Expo West’s 45th anniversary, the return of BlizzCon and more. These bookings are projected to generate $22.1 million in tourism occupancy tax, supporting city and community services.

“These bookings reflect the continued demand for Anaheim as a world-class meetings destination and the strength of our long-term partnerships with event organizers,” said Mike Waterman, president and CEO, Visit Anaheim. “The economic impact generated by these conventions and meetings supports thousands of jobs and drives investment across our hospitality and tourism ecosystem.”

Smart Meetings says: The nearly 150 events taking place in Anaheim in 2026 showcases the attractiveness of the destination.

CEO Bob Jameson Announces Retirement from Visit Fort Worth

Jan. 20, 2026—Bob Jameson, Visit Fort Worth’s 13-year CEO, has announced his retirement, effective April 30, 2026.

Before the convention and visitors bureau, Jameson led Marriott’s Worthington Renaissance Fort Worth Hotel for nearly 30 years. “Bob Jameson has had immeasurable impact on Fort Worth’s visitor tourism success over the past 13 years” Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker. “He is truly one of Fort Worth’s best ambassadors and I’m thrilled for him in his next chapter of retirement.”  

“Bob Jameson has had immeasurable impact on Fort Worth’s visitor tourism success over the past 13 years. He is truly one of Fort Worth’s best ambassadors and I’m thrilled for him in his next chapter of retirement.”

In addition to his CEO role, he serves on the board of several Fort Worth-based organizations: Arts Fort Worth, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, Fort Worth Black Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Near Southside, Fort Worth Opera, The Cliburn, Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Fort Worth Sister Cities International, and Downtown Fort Worth Inc. Nationally, he serves on the boards of Texas Travel Alliance and U.S. Travel Association.

Sphere Entertainment Announces Intent to Develop Sphere at National Harbor

Jan. 20, 2026—Sphere Entertainment, Maryland and Peterson Companies have announced plans to create a new Sphere venue at National Harbor, 15 minutes from Washington, D.C. This new venue will be the second Sphere in the United States.

“Our focus has always been on creating a global network of Spheres across forward-looking cities,” said James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO, Sphere Entertainment. “Sphere is a new experiential medium. With a commitment to bringing innovative opportunities to residents and visitors, Governor Moore, County Executive Braveboy, the State of Maryland, and Prince George’s County recognize the potential for a Sphere at National Harbor to elevate and advance immersive experiences across the area.”

The National Harbor venue will be the first small-scale Sphere and will have a seating capacity of 6,000, compared to the Las Vegas Sphere’s 17,000-seat capacity. Another Sphere is planned to open in Abu Dhabi.

Smart Meetings says: More unique venues across the United States shows that attendees want more exceptional experiences.

Orlando Doubles Down on Meetings with New Expansions and Group Experiences

Orlando is reinforcing its position as one of the nation’s top meetings destinations with a slate of major infrastructure investments and new group-ready experiences rolling out through 2026 and beyond.

The centerpiece is the Orange County Convention Center’s $560 million Grand Concourse Expansion, which officially broke ground and will add 44,000 square feet of meeting space and a 100,000-square-foot ballroom by 2029. Designed to improve connectivity between the North and South buildings, the project aims to accommodate larger, more complex events while increasing flexibility for planners managing multiple programs under one roof.

Transportation is also getting a significant upgrade. Orlando International Airport is moving forward with a $5.9 billion, decade-long modernization plan that includes a new gate-link system connecting terminals, expanded baggage handling, more than 40 new dining options and an upgraded fixed-base operator terminal for private and corporate aviation. Together, the improvements are designed to reduce friction for attendees and enhance first and last impressions for groups arriving in Orlando.

Beyond bricks and mortar, Orlando continues to expand its menu of off-site experiences. New team-building and entertainment options include the return of Blue Man Group at ICON Park, immersive attractions such as Sloth World and the Museum of Ice Cream Orlando, and sports-forward venues like Society Park, a multi-court padel and pickleball complex. Theme parks are also leaning further into group business, with Universal Epic Universe introducing new Dine & Ride programs and Disney Meetings & Events unveiling refreshed convention centers and original team-building concepts.

Hotel inventory is keeping pace, highlighted by a 120,000-square-foot expansion of event space at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin and new convention-adjacent properties opening in 2026.

Smart Meetings says: Orlando’s investments address two of planners’ biggest pain points—scale and logistics—while layering in fresh, customizable experiences that help events stand out. For planners balancing growth, attendee expectations and operational efficiency, Orlando’s next chapter offers more room to innovate without reinventing the wheel.

Wilmington Convention Center Donates 3,000+ Pounds of Food to Non-Profits

Jan. 16, 2026—Wilmington Convention Center in North Carolina has confirmed it has donated 3,119 pounds of food to local non-profit organizations in 2025. Unused prepared food from various events was redirected following food safety guidelines to the following organizations:

• 86 Hunger Now
• Good Shepherd
• Living HOPE
• Salvation Army
• Temple Baptist Church
• The Anchor

“These efforts reflect the thoughtful planning of our culinary and operations teams and the strong partnerships we have with local organizations,” said Wilmington Convention Center Director of Operations Mac Goodrum. “We are extremely proud to give back to organizations that are making a difference right here in our own community, and we look forward to continuing these efforts throughout the year.”

Smart Meetings says: The United States wastes more than 100 billion pounds of food per year, according to the United Nations, and events are a significant contributor to this waste. By diverting this food to those in need, Wilmington Convention Center is both preventing food waste and placing it in the hands of those who need it.

Visit California CEO, Caroline Beteta, Announces Retirement

Jan. 15, 2026—Caroline Beteta, longtime Visit California CEO, has announced her decision to retire, effective September 2026. “This was not an easy decision,” she says in a press release by the organization. “But with the organization on strong footing, an exceptional and long-tenured leadership team in place, and the industry’s recent renewal vote delivering record participation and overwhelming confidence in our shared mission, it feels like the right moment to thoughtfully begin planning for the next chapter—for me, and for the organization we have built together.”

Beteta has been Visit California’s CEO since 1998, so has seen the state through various ups and downs.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have created—a world-class marketing organization, a strong and trusted governance model, and a statewide network of partners who collaborate with purpose and heart,” Beteta says in the statement. “This work has always been bigger than any one individual. It belongs to the thousands of leaders, operators, marketers, advocates and community partners who show up every day to make California welcoming, vibrant and competitive on the world stage.”

Beteta states that she remain engaged throughout the organization’s transition, and ensures the industry that the Visit California board of directors has begun a global search for the organization’s next CEO. As we look forward, I’m excited to continue connecting with many of you at upcoming industry moments—including Outlook Forum this spring—as we build on this momentum, celebrate what we’ve accomplished and continue shaping the next chapter of California’s tourism story,” she says.

Smart Meetings says: Caroline Beteta has led an embrace of meetings and events as an economic force in California and her legacy will be an amplified voice for the hospitality community in the state and beyond.

Cvent Becomes Official Technology Partner for SITE

Jan. 15, 2025—Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) has partnered with Cvent to become its Official Event Technology Partner for its portfolio of global events.

“SITE’s events bring our global community together to learn, connect, and experience the power of incentive travel,” said Annette Gregg, CEO of SITE. “By partnering with Cvent, we’re evolving the way we design and deliver those experiences, with technology that supports engagement, inclusivity, and insights before, during, and after every event.”

Cvent will work with the SITE team to establish registration, mobile apps, on-site check-in, attendee engagement and post-event data/analytics. Cvent and SITE will collaborate on the following events:

• SITE Global Conference
• SITE Incentive Summit Americas
• SITE Incentive Summit
• SITE Young Leaders Conference Europe
• SITE NITE Europe
• SITE Classic
• SITE Young Leaders Conference North America

• SITE NITE North America

Smart Meetings says: This collaboration between SITE and Cvent could create a more seamless experience for attendees from beginning to end. With the technology handled across all areas of SITE’s events, all those who attend will have a better experience, so they can spend more energy creating connections.

AREA15 Expands Experiential Lineup

AREA15, Las Vegas’ immersive entertainment district just off the Strip, is doubling down on experience-driven attractions with the announcement of more than a dozen new tenants slated to open throughout 2026. The expansion brings a fresh mix of interactive entertainment, chef-driven dining and pop-culture-forward retail—signaling new opportunities for groups looking to design meetings that feel anything but traditional.

Newly signed tenants include global lifestyle retailer MINISO and competitive social gaming venue House Rules, both set to add high-energy, discovery-driven experiences to the district. MINISO’s rotating collections—powered by more than 150 licensed IP partnerships including Disney, Marvel and Sanrio—promise a playful retail environment that doubles as a pop-culture scavenger hunt. House Rules, formerly Lane Park in Scottsdale, blends elevated comfort food, a full bar and globally inspired games such as ice curling, duckpin bowling and carrom, creating a built-in playground for team-building and hosted buyouts.

They join an already robust slate of new concepts opening across 2026. Food-forward additions include Fuku Chicken by Momofuku founder David Chang, Good Company Burgers from Echo & Rig’s Sam Marvin, Nacho Daddy, Chilango’s Tacos, Alien Pizza Party and Saint Honoré Doughnuts & Beignets. On the experiential side, highlights include the nearly 30,000-square-foot Museum of Ice Cream, opening its largest global flagship with ice cream buffets, themed suites and immersive playspaces, and The Bowl, a futuristic dining concept featuring robot chefs preparing meals in real time.

Fashion brand Dolls Kill will debut a flagship store with exclusive Las Vegas collections and immersive events, while Cosmic Pretzel brings whimsical, space-themed snacks into the mix. Looking ahead, iFLY Indoor Skydiving is slated to open in early 2027 with private event spaces and STEM-focused programming.

“These new additions deepen our reputation as a place where discovery never stops,” said AREA15 CEO Winston Fisher, noting the district’s continued focus on surprising guests with every visit.

The expansion builds on recent openings including Universal Horror Unleashed, Interstellar Arc, The Escape Game and Great Big Game Show, alongside established anchors such as Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart and Illuminarium.

Smart Meetings Says: AREA15’s growing roster underscores a larger trend meeting planners can’t ignore: attendees crave immersive, shareable experiences that blur the line between work and play. With scalable attractions, built-in entertainment and unconventional venues ideal for buyouts, AREA15 gives planners new ways to energize agendas, elevate networking and deliver memorable off-site experiences—without leaving Las Vegas’ core meetings ecosystem.

Cincinnati Completes $264 Million Convention Center Transformation

Dec. 8, 2025—Cincinnati Convention Center hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony in celebration of its 18-month, $264 million renovation, as part of the city’s $800 million Convention Center District.

The upgraded convention center features updated meeting rooms, ballrooms, exhibit hall and pre-function space, as well as a new rooftop terrace that provides views of the city’s downtown skyline. Cincinnati Convention Center is 750,000 sq. ft. in total, including a 200,000-square-foot exhibition space and a 40,000-square-foot ballroom.

Included in the Convention Center District is the two-acre Elm Street Plaza, an outdoor space connected to the center; and soon the district will have a 700-room Marriott headquarters hotel across the street. The hotel will also feature 80,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, 15,000 sq. ft. of retail space and a skywalk connection to the convention center.

“This reimagined Convention Center proves that Cincinnati is ready to compete at a national level and will deliver the experience meeting planners expect,” said Rodney Faulk, General Manager of the Convention Center, Legends Global.

Smart Meetings says: An updated Convention Center District gives planners and their attendees more options for a memorable experience when they visit Cincinnati.

Las Vegas Convention Center Completes $600 Million Renovation

Jan. 5, 2026—Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) and Consumer Technology Association (CTA) marked the completion of LVCC’s $600 million renovation of its legacy campus. CTA’s annual CES trade show is the first event to be held in the renovated space.

LVCC’s legacy transformation began in 2023 and has been completed with an updated central hall grand lobby with a 75×42-foot screen, a climate-controlled concourse between the North Hall and South Hall, a redesigned South Hall and an extended ribbon roof that spans the entire campus.

“This milestone signals the next leap for trade shows in Las Vegas, delivering a world-class convention center experience that reflects the scale and ambition of our city,” said Steve Hill, president and CEO of the LVCVA. “It’s fitting to share this moment with CES, the world’s most influential technology show and our long-standing partner. Their continued commitment underscores the future of global events in Las Vegas.”

Smart Meetings says: An updated convention center in Las Vegas gives event planners a more aesthetic and functional place to host events.

Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority Launches New Brand Campaign at Rams Game

The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA) has unveiled a new global brand campaign designed to reposition the islands not just as a desirable destination, but as an experience that leaves a lasting personal and cultural impact on visitors.

The “Hawaiʻi Stays With You” campaign debuted Jan. 4 in HTA’s top domestic visitor market during the Los Angeles Rams game. The high-profile launch integrated the campaign throughout game-day activations, including in-stadium signage, a branded game ball delivery and an experiential booth featuring Maui lei maker Britney Alejo-Fishell, one of the campaign’s featured cultural ambassadors.

Developed by the Hawaiʻi Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB) under HTA’s strategic direction, the campaign emphasizes transformation through travel, highlighting how time spent in Hawaiʻi can influence how people connect with place, culture and community long after they return home.

“Today’s travelers seek deeper connections with the people and places they visit,” said Caroline Anderson, HTA interim president and CEO, in a statement. “This campaign invites them to see Hawaiʻi through the everyday moments of those who call it home.”

A Community-Led Creative Direction

The new campaign builds on the destination’s previous brand platform, “The People. The Place. The Hawaiian Islands,” continuing a commitment to community-led storytelling while offering a more contemporary view of how culture is lived across the islands today.

The creative approach centers on culinary experiences, outdoor adventures, leisure and wellness—weaving together stories that reflect both a globally relevant lifestyle and one that is distinctly Hawaiian.

Smart Meetings says: This campaign signals a continued—and increasingly intentional—shift toward purpose-driven, culturally grounded travel—a trend that directly impacts how meetings and incentive programs are designed in The Ahola State.

For planners, it reinforces the expectation that events hosted on the islands should go beyond scenery and luxury to deliver authentic connections, community engagement and a meaningful legacy. As attendees seek experiences that resonate long after the closing session, Hawaiʻi is clearly positioning itself as a destination where meetings can create lasting personal and organizational transformation—not just memorable moments.

Cvent Expands Enterprise and Marketer Capabilities with Acquisition of ON24

Event technology company Cvent has acquired ON24, an AI-driven intelligent engagement platform for B2B sales and marketing, for $400 million in cash. 

Smart Meetings Says: The combination of Cvent’s registration and RFP dominance with ON24’s enterprise-grade webinar and digital engagement capabilities coupled with Cvent’s recent purchase of streaming content company Goldcast will advance Cvent as an option for an end-to-end tech stack for in-person and virtual events.

EIC Recognizes CVS Studios for Sustainable Event Standards Certification

Dec. 23, 2025—Events Industry Council (EIC) announced that Toronto-based CVS Studios, a company that specializes in custom exhibits, activations and experiences, has achieved silver-level certification up to EIC Sustainable Event Standards.

“Achieving EIC certification is a powerful milestone and reinforces our commitment to designing and building exhibits and experiences with purpose,” said Sean Clarke, president and CEO, CVS Studios. “The certification and recent launch of our Sustainability and Social Impact Policy gives our agency partners and clients confidence that their brand vision is being brought to life in a way that aligns with their values. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made and even more motivated for what’s next.”

These standards highlight exceptional performance in organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management, DEI, accessibility and social impact.

Smart Meetings says: Meeting professionals can partner with CVS Studios easier, knowing they’re partnering with a company that takes sustainability seriously.

IAPCO Announces New Destination Partnership with Meeting Destination Vienna

Dec. 17, 2025—International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) has announced a new two-year partnership with Meeting Destination Vienna, represented by Vienna Convention Bureau, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Vienna will work with IAPCO’s community and support several key initiatives, including joining the judging panel for the IAPCO Partner’s Emerging Leader Award and hosting the upcoming IAPCO Advisory Board Meeting.

“Vienna is proud of its close ties with professional conference organizers worldwide. Working with IAPCO further underlines the city’s strong standing as a high-quality meeting destination,” said Anita Paic, director of B2B Management and Vienna Convention Bureau.

“We look forward to sharing our story with the global leaders in professional conference organization and to using this partnership as an important platform to highlight Vienna’s unique capabilities, amenities, culture and ambitions. Building on this year’s IAPCO Council Meeting as an initial milestone, we are excited to deepen and expand this cooperation. We look forward to creating tangible value for organizers and their clients and to shared success with IAPCO.”

Orange County Convention Center Celebrates Expansion Groundbreaking

Dec. 17, 2025—Orange County Convention Center has celebrated the groundbreaking of its Grand Concourse Expansion. The $560 million project has upgraded the North-South Building with 44,000 sq. ft. of new meeting space, a 100,000-square-foot grand ballroom and an enhanced connection between the concourses.

“This expansion will continue to ensure that Orange County Convention Center remains one of the premier venues in the world,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. “Orange County has been ranked the No. 1 meeting destination in the country for 10 consecutive years, and this expansion ensures we will continue to lead that charge.”

Construction on the project is set to begin early 2026 and complete in 2029.

Smart Meetings says: An upgraded space will place Orange County Convention Center in a greater position to host more and better meetings.

Jamaica Welcomes 300,000 Visitors Post Hurricane Melissa

Dec. 16, 2025—Following Hurricane Melissa, the Category 5 hurricane that hit Jamaica on Oct. 28, the island has seen 300,000 visitors.

Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett has attributed this number to the tourism sector’s recovery strategy. “Our recovery has exceeded expectations,” he said. “Jamaica is not just back—we are stronger, more resilient and more committed than ever to delivering the authentic Jamaican experience our visitors know and love. The dedication of our tourism workers, many of whom were personally affected by the hurricane, exemplifies the true spirit of Jamaica.”

Minister Bartlett also noted the island has reached its target of restoring tourism operations by Dec. 15, hitting a milestone just over six weeks after the hurricane. Tourism officials expect a full recovery of the island by December 2026.

Major airports, including Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston and Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) in Ocho Rios, as well as popular tourist attractions, are fully operational.

Smart Meetings says: A robust tourism recovery strategy marks the strength of an island whose tourism accounts for more than 30% of its GDP.

John A. Fentener van Vlissingen, Founder of BCD and BORON, Passes Away

Dec. 12,2025—John A. Fentener van Vlissingen has passed away on Dec. 11 in Zeist, the Netherlands. He was 86.

After a career as a banker, he founded Property Management Advisory Services in 1975. In 1987, this company would become BCD Travel after a separation within the company and investments by BCD.

Van Vlissingen was twice named in Business Travel News 25 Most Influential People in Business Travel and was inducted into the magazine’s Hall of Fame.

His other company, the van Vlissingen family’s office and private investment company BORON focuses on markets across real estate, hospitality, travel and e-commerce.

Both companies will continue to operate based on Mr. van Vlissingen’s ideals. In 2025, several of his grandchildren joined BCD and BORON boards.

Van Vlissingen is survived by his wife, Marine, Comtesse de Pourtalès, their three children and nine grandchildren.

Encore Announces Acquisition of FIRST

Dec. 9, 2025—Encore has recently announced the acquisition of FIRST, a global leader in event marketing and brand experiences.

This now allows Encore to better serve their clients and community with a wide range of events and solutions. FIRST joins Encore with 15 years of expertise in delivery models as well as a 30-year legacy of managing teams that expand B2B event programs around the world. FIRST’s offices in New York, London and Singapore provide a global arm to deliver customizable solutions for corporate arenas and event planning.

“The FIRST embedded corporate campus team model and strong customer relationships across technology, financial and professional services are a complement to Encore’s global event production capabilities,” says Ben Erwin, president and CEO of Encore. “Together, with their talented team of senior leaders and industry experts, we’ll deliver even more value to customers — on-site, off-site, and anywhere events are held.”

Smart Meetings says: Growth is an important part of the process and Smart Meetings is excited to see how this acquisition allows Encore to develop further and provide planners with more opportunities for their events.

Graton Resort & Casino Gives Back for the Holidays

Dec. 8, 2025—In Northern California’s wine country, Graton Resort & Casino team members got together to give back to the community during Thanksgiving. They collected more than 400 coats to families; provided 4,300 meals, which included 288 frozen turkeys; and volunteered at Redwood Gospel Mission’s annual Great Thanksgiving Banquet.

“Our team members are proud to continue this tradition of supporting our neighbors during the holidays,” stated Spencer Cronin, director of HR operations, Graton Resort & Casino. “By providing warm coats, nutritious meals, and the centerpiece of a Thanksgiving dinner, we hope to bring comfort and joy to families throughout our community.”

Montage International Launches Private Wine Collection

Dec. 2, 2025—Montage International has unveiled Montage Estate, its private collection of bottled wine, created in partnership with Jesse Katz’s Aperture Cellars. Montage Estate will be available exclusively at all Montage and Pendry Hotels & Resorts.

Katz, a recent winner of Wine Enthusiast’s 2025 Winemaker of the Year Award, will debut the partnership with the 2023 “Montage Estate Vineyard” Cabernet Sauvignon this holiday season; in spring 2026, the collection will expand with a Rosé and Sauvignon Blanc. 375mL bottles will be available in guest room bars.

“We are incredibly proud to debut a new collection of wines crafted in partnership with Jesse Katz and Aperture Cellars, sourced directly from Montage Healdsburg’s estate vineyard,” said Alan J. Fuerstman, founder, chairman and CEO of Montage International. “Jesse’s unwavering dedication to the estate and his exceptional winemaking embody the soul of Sonoma County. It is an honor to share these wines with our guests and residents.”

American Experience Foundation Rebrands to NEXTDC

Dec. 2, 2025—American Experience Foundation (AEF) has announced its new brand identity, NEXTDC.

The organization is investing in the next generation of hospitality professionals, and the rebrand is designed to reflect that. Since its founding in 2015, NEXTDC has helped more than 6,200 students, providing over $216,000 in scholarships and, through collaboration, generated more than $2 million in financial support and $1 million in in-kind donations, including the Richard E. & Nancy P. Marriott Foundation.

“The hospitality industry continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to our community and its young people,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, NEXTDC board of directors member and president and CEO of Destination DC. “Through NEXTDC, we are not only investing in the future workforce but also creating access and visibility for DC students who represent the next generation of leaders. Our interns, scholars and alumni remind us daily why the future of DC’s hospitality industry is so bright.”

This month, NEXTDC will launch a new website with a new visual identity that highlights Washington, D.C.’s, new generation of talent. Destination DC’s annual Member Holiday Celebration will celebrate NEXTDC on Dec. 17. with a breakfast and student showcase.

Smart Meetings says: Investing in the next generation of hospitality professionals has the potential to lower the barrier to entering the industry.

NoMad Las Vegas to Rebrand as The Reserve at Park MGM

Dec. 1, 2025—MGM Resorts International has announced that NoMad Las Vegas will soon transition into The Reserve at Park MGM.

Taking effect Dec. 17, the rebranding with include several NoMad venues, such as NoMad Pool, which will be The Terrace Pool; NoMad Library, soon to be named The Library; and NoMad Bar, which will be called The Reserve Bar.

Shortly after, in early 2026, The Reserve will join Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection, as part of MGM and Marriott’s long-term partnership, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy.

Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau Previews 2026 Events

Nov. 26, 2025—Business professionals gathered at Pennsylvania Convention Center for Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB). The city highlighted several major events and happenings, including a projected $1 billion in economic impact for 2027-2030.

The year ahead for the city looks bright, as it will welcome FIFA World Cup, America’s 250th Anniversary, MLB All-Star Game, PGA Championship, NCAA March Madness and more.

“While the PHLCVB has been instrumental in attracting and booking the major events taking place in 2026, a banner year for Philadelphia, our team has also been working diligently to make sure our city’s success endures far into the future,” said Gregg Caren, PHLCVB president and CEO. “We are proud to share a preview of what’s ahead for meetings, conventions and events that will continue to support the more than 100,000 hospitality professionals in Philadelphia.”

Each year the PHLCVB Foundation recognizes a local college student studying hospitality with the Marie Baker Brown Scholarship. This year the scholarship was awarded to Shrita Brown, a Temple University senior. Beyond being a student, Brown is also president of the Temple chapter of the National Society for Minorities in Hospitality, director of membership for Eta Sigma Delta sorority, works as a visitor experience associate for Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation and is the founder of a travel agency.

Smart Meetings says: Philadelphia is only becoming a more attractive city for planners to host events, as evidenced by the major events taking place in 2026.

Registration Opens for SITE Global Conference 2026 in Abu Dhabi

Nov. 25, 2025—Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) opened registration for SITE Global Conference 2026 on Feb. 12-15, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal. Every year more than 750 incentive travel professionals attend the event and engage in impactful networking and education.

The 2026 conference will highlight the elements reshaping incentive travel and will offer guidance on navigating rising prices and creating resilient revenue.

“SITE Global Conference is where our worldwide community comes together to accelerate the future of incentive travel,” said Annette Gregg, CEO of SITE. “As we open registration, our focus is clear, to convene leaders who drive performance through incentive travel. The 2026 program emphasizes insight, application and results, ensuring every delegate leaves with ideas they can implement immediately. Vitally, the conference will continue to advance the business case for incentive travel using evidence of measurable ROI as well as case studies demonstrating gains in loyalty, trust, and culture.”

The Luxury Collection Names Justin Theroux as a Global Explorer and Face of Its New Campaign

Nov. 24, 2025—The Luxury Collection has unveiled its new campaign, I am The Luxury Collection, starring actor and filmmaker Justin Theroux.

Made up of more than 130 hotels and resorts across 40 countries, the campaign, in partnership with Stept Studios, has been created to highlight the brand’s properties

“As the Destination Authority, every property within The Luxury Collection portfolio invites travelers to experience culture in unexpected, immersive, and inspiring ways,” said Bruce Rohr, vice president and global brand leader of The Luxury Collection. “Through Justin’s portrayal of The Curator, we are celebrating a portfolio as diverse and distinctive as the destinations themselves, which defy definition, invite curiosity, and transform travel into a deeply personal form of expression.”

The campaign launches today on HBOmax.

InterContinental New York Barclay Offers On-Demand Wellness in New Partnership

Nov. 21, 2025—InterContinental New York Barclay has partnered with Soothe to provide guests with in-room spa services. As part of The Barclay’s “Journey to 100,” this offering is one of several that will be added to the property as it reaches this milestone.

The partnership allows guests at The Barclay to bring the spa to them by booking the property’s spa services to their room or suite via the IC Barclay mobile app, hotel website, in-room TV or QR code.

“InterContinental New York Barclay has welcomed discerning travelers to Midtown since 1926, and this partnership is a natural extension of our residential style of hospitality,” said Sofia L. Vandaele, general manager and regional director of operations. “By teaming up with Soothe, we’re giving guests even more control over how and when they unwind, whether they’re in New York for business, leisure, or a bit of both.”

Smart Meetings says: With walking and talking nonstop, meetings can be tough on the body and mind. There’s nothing more convenient than letting attendees experience that well-deserved massage without ever stepping outside of their room.

Visit Seattle CEO Tammy Canavan Honored at Women of Influence Awards

Nov. 20, 2025—Visit Seattle President and CEO Tammy Canavan was celebrated for her contributions to the hospitality industry at the Puget Sound Business Journal Women on Influence Awards. Canavan is Visit Seattle’s first executive to receive this accolade.

Canavan is Visit Seattle’s first female president and CEO, joining the organization in 2022 after working as president and CEO for See Monterey in California and Travel Tacoma in Washington.

Since launching 22 years ago, the program has honored more than 300 women. This year, 19 honorees were recognized.

Smart Meetings says: Receiving recognition as a meetings industry leader informs partners that their contributions have made an impact.

Miami Beach Convention Centers Upgrades Tech in Partnership Renewal

Nov. 11, 2026—Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) and Smart City Networks have renewed their partnership, with a renewed agreement that runs through 2029.

With this renewed partnership, Smart City Networks will upgrade MBCC’s network infrastructure with Wi-Fi 7, making it one of the first convention centers in the United States to have it. This updated connection will offer quicker speeds, more reliability and the ability to launch higher bandwidth applications like augmented and virtual reality, as well as enhanced smart systems for systems that control crowd management, attendee connectivity, event flow and cybersecurity.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Smart City Networks, whose commitment to innovation and adaptability perfectly matches the forward-thinking and global spirit of our amazing destination. This enhanced technology model empowers us to deliver state-of-the-art experiences tailored to every client, guest, exhibitor and customer—today and for years to come,” says Freddie Peterson, general manager of MBCC.

Smart Meetings says: The less connectivity issues, the better. For meeting professionals bringing groups to MBCC, this partnership could ensure more satisfied events and meetings with minimal internet-related hiccups.

Las Vegas’ Grand Prix Plaza to Reopen in 2026 With Upgrades

Nov. 11, 2026—Grand Prix Plaza in Las Vegas will reopen Jan. 30, 2026, after undergoing several updates.

When the 39-acre, multi-purpose complex welcomes back fans, they will find a new track layout for the F1 Drive go-kart experience, an upgraded F1 X 4D theater, new event spaces and more.

“Grand Prix Plaza embodies the innovation and energy that defines Formula 1 in Las Vegas,” said Emily Prazer, president and CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix Inc. and Grand Prix Plaza. “From day one, it’s been a celebration of speed, technology and fan engagement, appealing to both longtime fans of the sport or guests who are just learning about it. As we approach its second season of operation, we’re unveiling new experiences that take that vision even further, allowing us to find new and exciting ways to partner with the local Las Vegas community.”

In celebration of the reopening, Grand Prix Plaza will launch the “Ultimate Grand Prix Plaza Package.” Fans will have the chance to win two tickets to F1 X, F1 Sims and F1 Drive, a $250 merchandise credit and a $200 food and beverage credit.

Smart Meetings says: An upgraded Grand Prix Plaza shows that the demand is there from visitors. Meeting planners who bring their groups to Las Vegas will have an upgraded experience to share with them.

Visit Salt Lake Launches Speaker Bureau for Planners

Nov. 7, 2025—Visit Salt Lake has launched Speak Salt Lake, a speaker bureau for convention, meeting and event planners. Through this new bureau, planners are given curated access to local experts, including athletes, industry executives and civic leaders. 

“Speak Salt Lake’s mission is to elevate the voices that live right here in our own backyard,” said Kaitlin Eskelson, president and CEO of Visit Salt Lake. “From unparalleled Olympic expertise to diverse industry voices, we have a world-class roster of thought leaders who embody the spirit of innovation that defines our community. By connecting them with meeting and event planners, we are moving beyond the ballroom and connecting their audiences with the inspirational power of our destination.”

Each bureau member will be available for keynotes, panels, workshops depending on the planner’s needs.

Speak Salt Lake includes such voices as:

Alex Lawrence, PhD—Professor of Entrepreneurship and Technology, Weber State University

Natalie Gochnour—Chief Economist, University of Utah’s Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute

Ted Ligety—Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist

Greg Levesque—CEO and Co-Founder, Strider Technologies 

IAEE Announces 2025 Award Winners

Nov. 5, 2025–International Association of Exhibitions and Events has announced this year’s winners of its IAEE Awards Program. 

“This year’s award recipients represent the very best of our industry,” said IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan. “They are leaders who have not only achieved remarkable professional success but have also dedicated themselves to advancing the exhibitions and events community as a whole. Each honoree exemplifies the innovation, professionalism and collaborative spirit that defines IAEE.”

The awards program recognizes contributions made by IAEE members and member companies.

The IAEE Awards Program winners are:

Pinnacle Award–Dennis Smith, CEO/Managing Director, NuernbergMesse North America

Lifetime Achievement Award–Bob Priest-Heck, Former CEO, Freeman

Bob Dallmeyer Educator of the Year Award–Matthew Kalb, Vice President, Client Experience, T3 Expo; Thomas C. Padron, Professor and Program Coordinator–Hospitality and Tourism, California State University, East Bay

Cathy Breden Woman of Achievement Award–Kara Dao, Chief Operating Officer, JDC Events

Chapter Merit Award–Tara Brashear, Sales Manager, Shepard; Ryan Lovell, Associate Environmental Producer, Freeman; Kristin Martinez, Vice President, Events of Fast Forward Event Productions; Julie Sullivan, Vice President, Business Development of ACIS Group

Distinguished Service Award–Robyn Davis, Trade Show Trainer/Consultant, Exhibitors WINH LLC; Susan D. Haning, CEM, CMP. Industry Relationships Director, Freeman

Emerging Leader of the Year Award–Jackie Gronske, CEM, Senior Manager, Exhibits and Sponsorships, The American Institute of Architects

Innovate Business Solution Award–Honeycomb Strategies

Outstanding Marketing & Sales Award–Leslie Johnson, Vice President of Marketing and Sales, Visit Milwaukee

Smart Meetings says: Recognition by the events industry gives planners a view of leaders in the industry with whom to develop partnerships.

Seattle Boosts Hospitality with New Tourism Ambassador Program

Visit Seattle has partnered with the Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) program to enhance the city’s hospitality sector. The initiative aims to train hospitality staff, transit workers and other public-facing individuals to become ambassadors for Seattle.

The program provides participants with destination expertise and best practices for interacting with visitors. Since launching in July, over 60 individuals have received CTA certification, with monthly in-person classes available. The next session is scheduled for November 7.

Rudd Schupp, senior manager of destination experience at Visit Seattle, highlighted the program’s importance in improving guest experiences across various locations, including SEA Airport and the Seattle Convention Center. The goal is to bolster the local visitor economy and provide lasting benefits for the region.

Established in 2006, the CTA program has already certified over 60,000 ambassadors across 21 states. The seminar includes four modules covering tourism’s impact, local attractions, resource navigation and exceptional guest service. The course fee is $45, with private classes available for employers.

For more information, visit visitseattle.org/about-us/tourism-ambassador-program.

Smart Meetings says: Adding the additional layer of the certified ambassador program to its hospitality cake, planners should take note of Seattle as a thoughtful destination providing smart touches to a visitor’s experience.

Increased Visitor Spend in Reno Tahoe Attributed to Non-Gaming Sources

Oct. 20, 2025—Visit Reno Tahoe announced that the region’s visitor economy generated $3.4 billion in direct visitor spending in 2024, contributing to a total economic impact of $5.2 billion, according to the latest Tourism Economics report.

Visitor spending increased 0.9% year-over-year, fueled by growth in non-gaming recreation (+4.5%) including a strong start to the inaugural indoor track season, food and beverage (+3.3%) with the opening of over 10 new restaurants and bars including celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay’s Ramsay’s Kitchen in Caesars Entertainment’s Silver Legacy Resort Casino and Curse of Cane a new upscale bar in MidTown, and transportation (+2.5%) including new flight routes from Austin, Minneapolis, Chicago and Atlanta.

Smart Meetings says: Reno Tahoe is developing into a four-seasons destination with diverse activities available year-round.

A New Tourism Campaign Launches to Boost Inbound Tourism to America

Oct. 20, 2025—Brand USA has launched a tourism-marketing campaign, “America the Beautiful,” to increase inbound tourism to the U.S. The campaign aims to accelerate growth leading up to 2026, when the U.S. will host the FIFA World Cup and celebrate its 250th anniversary. This initiative comes after the U.S. Travel Association projected a 6.3% decrease in international travel to the U.S. in 2025, marking the first decline since 2020, with recovery to pre-2024 levels not expected until 2027.

Brand USA CEO Fred Dixon emphasized the U.S. as a top international destination for long-haul leisure travel. The campaign seeks to counter negative sentiment by reconnecting travelers with the unique aspects of the United States. It shifts focus from mere destinations to the people, stories, culture and experiences.

Research indicates the campaign resonates well across 10 global markets, with 72% of travelers responding positively and 67% expressing increased interest in visiting the U.S. The campaign will be rolled out across various media channels in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, India, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, South Korea and the United Kingdom. Data-driven analysis of travel intent, economic trends and consumer sentiment informed the selection of these countries.

Smart Meetings says: The United States remains a compelling destination for leisure and business events but competition from other destinations require meeting professionals to remind potential attendees of the benefits regularly.

Destination Canada Collaborates with Immigration Organization

Oct. 17, 2025—Destination Canada has collaborated with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the department behind Canada’s border entry requirements.

“Our destinations are diverse and vibrant, our infrastructure world-class, and our accessibility stronger than many realize,” said Virginie De Visscher, executive director of business events at Destination Canada. “By offering practical tools like this video and working alongside IRCC, we make hosting events in Canada seamless and replace current perceptions with a deeper understanding of a destination that is dynamic, inclusive, and ready to welcome the world.”

At IMEX America 2025, an IRCC representative joined the Destination Canada booth to highlight how Canada eases visa processes for event planners and their attendees. A guide by the organization helps planners determine what their event attendees requires to enter the country, such as an electronic travel authorization or a visitor visa.

A video created by IRCC that demonstrates the process:

Global Creative Agency Brand Revolution Acquires Lumenati

Oct. 14, 2025—Brand Revolution, the global creative marketing agency known for crafting emotionally resonant brand experiences, has announced its acquisition of Lumenati, an Emmy Award–winning creative studio based in Denver celebrated for its cinematic storytelling and experiential fabrication.

This marks Brand Revolution’s second major acquisition of 2025, following its integration of Brilliant earlier this year. With Lumenati joining the fold, Brand Revolution deepens its expertise in high-impact content production, immersive media and experiential design, advancing its mission to operate as a unified “House of Experts” serving brands worldwide.

“Lumenati isn’t just a studio; they’re a force,” said Alisa Haynes, CEO of Brand Revolution. “Their team brings a deep well of creativity, craft and cultural relevance. Together, we’re going to push creative boundaries, elevate our storytelling and deliver Return on Emotion at an entirely new level.”

Lumenati has developed a cult following for its distinct visual style, culture-forward campaigns and ability to blend artistry with strategy. Its work ranges from national brand films to local community storytelling, all underscored by a “punk rock” ethos and meticulous craftsmanship.

Under the new structure, Lumenati will remain based in Denver as part of Brand Revolution’s U.S. creative hub, with all existing client relationships and projects continuing seamlessly.

“We’re pumped to join forces with Brand Revolution,” said Scott McDonald, founder of Lumenati. “They share our drive for bold, unfiltered creativity. Together, we’ll craft work that hits hard and sets the standard for a future-focused agency.”

Smart Meetings says: Creative mergers like this one signal a growing trend of agencies blending storytelling, fabrication and experience design, offering meeting planners new partners in crafting immersive, emotion-driven brand events.

Visit Reno Tahoe and Wolf Pack Sports Properties Partner on NIL Promotional Campaign

Oct. 10, 2025—Visit Reno Tahoe and Wolf Pack Sports Properties have together established a partnership that incorporates Nevada athletes into promo destination content through a new name, image and likeness (NIL) fund.

“Visit Reno Tahoe is one of very few destination marketing organizations leaning in to NIL,” said Visit Reno Tahoe President and CEO Mike Larragueta. “Many University of Nevada athletes are also visitors. They have great stories to tell about what makes Reno Tahoe an exciting place to live and visit, and they are authentic in their experience and their pursuit of greatness. Many Nevada athletes also have substantial social media followings, which can help Visit Reno Tahoe reach new audiences, inspiring visitors of the future.”

Along with promotional content, athletes will also be included in appearances at events, which may include entertaining current and future meetings, conventions and sports events organizations.

Smart Meetings says: Meeting professionals who want to include a sports element in their events will have the chance to include up-and-coming athletes in various ways.

North Lake Tahoe Rebrands as Lake Tahoe Travel with New “Dive In” Campaign

Sept. 30, 2025—Lake Tahoe Travel has officially launched as the new brand identity for the destination management organization formerly known as North Lake Tahoe. Unveiled today, the rebrand brings together 12 towns across the west, north and east shores of Lake Tahoe, covering nearly 70% of the lake’s shoreline across California and Nevada.

The new name reflects both the diversity of the region’s communities and the depth of the visitor experience, encouraging travelers to look beyond the surface and “Dive In” to Tahoe’s rich stories of adventure, culture and sustainability.

“This brand speaks not only to the iconic beauty of the lake, but to the communities and stewardship efforts that make this destination one-of-a-kind,” said Andy Chapman, CEO of Travel North Tahoe Nevada.

The refreshed identity includes a new logo inspired by Tahoe’s natural elements—sunrise, mountain peaks and rippling water—and a vibrant brand palette of blues, greens, reds and golds. The campaign was shaped by extensive visitor research and stakeholder input, revealing that travelers increasingly see Lake Tahoe as a unified destination and are seeking more meaningful, emotionally resonant travel experiences.

With support from newly appointed agency 62ABOVE, the “Dive In” campaign rolls out this fall and spring through digital, social, event and PR channels, supported by $1.32 billion in annual travel spending and a tourism economy that supports more than 9,000 jobs.

Smart Meetings says: For meeting planners, the rebrand signals a unified, experience-rich Tahoe—ready to host events that blend natural beauty, community connection and environmental responsibility.

Cvent and BeCause Partnership Brings Sustainability Front and Center for Planners

Sept. 30, 2025—Cvent and BeCause, a sustainability data hub for the travel and tourism industry, have launched a new integration to make verified eco-credentials visible directly on the Cvent Supplier Network (CSN), one of the world’s largest venue-sourcing platforms.

More than 12,000 hotels and venues are already sharing real-time sustainability data through the integration, helping planners more easily find and compare sustainable venue options when sourcing for meetings and events.

“Hotels are under pressure to share sustainability data, but the process is often highly manual,” said Jahanzeeb Ahmed, chief commercial officer at BeCause. “This integration helps them showcase verified efforts and better compete for group business.”

Through BeCause’s data hub, which includes over 2 million data points across 10,000 metrics, properties can now automatically display up-to-date certifications and environmental initiatives on their CSN profiles.

Jim Abramson, vice president of product management at Cvent, said the collaboration reflects growing demand from planners for transparency and accountability. “We’re empowering hotels to meet planners’ expectations at scale while supporting a more responsible sourcing process.”

Future updates will allow sustainability data to be embedded directly into Cvent RFPs, streamlining how hotels respond to complex planner requests and improving sourcing efficiency.

Smart Meetings says: This partnership offers a faster, more transparent way to prioritize venues that align with sustainability goals—without the back-and-forth.

IACC Unveils AI Venue Finder

Sept. 29, 2025—IACC has launched its new site and it features the first AI venue finder from an industry association.

The new platform displays more than 400 IACC-certified hotels, resorts and conference centers across 18 countries. Through IACC’s website, planners have access to advanced search technology and resources and venue operators can access studies, research and enhanced account management.

“At IACC, our goal has always been to provide super clear support and information to ensure that every meeting, conference or business event is perfectly matched with the right host environment,” says IACC CEO Mark Cooper. “Our 2025 Meeting Room of the Future report reinforces just how critical this is, with more than 200 meeting planners identifying the host venue as the number one factor influencing the success of their events. With our new website and the launch of what we believe to be the first AI-driven, globally available venue finder created by an industry association, we are putting a smarter, faster, and more accurate sourcing tool directly in the hands of meeting professionals worldwide.”

Smart Meetings says: This new platform can save planners and operators time through its quicker venue sourcing.

AIME Reveals 2026 Knowledge Monday Theme: “Expertise Matters!”

Sept. 29, 2005—The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has unveiled the theme for its 2026 Knowledge Monday program: “Expertise Matters!” The theme highlights the strategic value of deep knowledge in the business events industry—championing professionals who anticipate challenges, navigate complexity and unite people with precision.

Curated by El Kwang, founder of BEAMexperience, Knowledge Monday will open AIME on February 9, 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The program will feature keynote speakers, thought leaders and innovators who will inspire and empower more than 1,500 global event professionals.

Building on the success of 2025’s “We Matter!” theme, the new focus elevates industry expertise as a driver of impact and transformation in an age of AI and rapid change. Guiding the topics and speaker line-up is an eight-member Advisory Committee representing leaders from across the Asia Pacific business events industry, with Anna Patterson of Sight Agency joining as the newest member.

“AIME’s mission is to provide a platform that reflects the credibility and confidence of our industry,” said Silke Calder, AIME show director. “‘Expertise Matters!’ highlights the knowledge and insight that drive meaningful outcomes for businesses and communities worldwide.”

AIME 2026, running February 9-11, will be its largest edition yet, spanning 11 bays and hosting 700+ exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers and more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments, offering a dynamic mix of networking, education and experiential showcases.

Smart Meetings says: For meeting profs, it’s a timely reminder that expertise is now the currency of impact—making AIME 2026 a must-attend for future-focused professionals.

Event Leaders Exchange Releases Leadership Whitepaper

Sept. 25, 2025—Event Leaders Exchange recently released the ELX Future-Ready Leadership Whitepaper in partnership with Explori. The whitepaper consists of in-depth surveys and interviews with event leaders from all over the world to determine what teams are set for the future and areas that may need some improvement.

The white paper explores five specific key challenges from staff training to AI.

To see the findings click here to read more.

Smart Meetings says: It is also important for industry leaders to see what is in the horizon and areas of their framework may need a second set of eyes. With the world changing at such a rapid rate with the workforce and AI this whitepaper provides crucial insight into the future of the industry.

Traffic at Washington Dulles Leads Spending Increases in Northeast

Sept. 22, 2025—Visitor spending reached $4.9 billion in Loudoun County in 2024, with Washington Dulles International Airport (AID) being a major contributor to the local economy, according to the latest data released by Virginia Tourism Corporation.

Overall visitor spending in Loudoun increased 9% from 2023, with $2.9 billion of that coming from transportation. Other top visitor spending categories include lodging, coming in at $441.5 million—an 11.6% increase from 2023—as well as food and beverage, topping out at $741.5 million—an 11.7% year-over-year increase. Loudoun is the largest generator of visitor spending in the Commonwealth of  Kentucky, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Virginia. In 2024 Loudoun also led the Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. areas in hotel occupancy rates with an average occupancy of 71.6 percent, according to STR data.

Washington Dulles is the fastest-growing international airport in the United States with 46 airlines serving more than 160 nonstop destinations around the world, according to a press release from Visit Loudoun. Almost $7 billion of new airport infrastructure is in the development pipeline, including new concourses with additional amenities and more airline gates. 

Visit Loudoun has trained 500 hospitality professionals, volunteers and residents to answer questions, recommend attractions and create outstanding visitor experiences through its Certified Tourism Ambassador Program over the last five years.

Los Angeles Convention Center Expansion Approved

Sept. 19, 2025—Los Angeles City Council voted today to approve the L.A. Convention Center (LACC) Expansion and Modernization Project, which will connect the existing South and West Exhibit Halls by adding 190,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space to create one contiguous hall with over 750,000 square feet, and will add 39,000 square feet of new meeting room space and a new 95,000 square-foot rooftop ballroom. It also includes a new digital signage program for the exterior of the campus.

The Council’s decision will next go to the Mayor for final signature. Construction site prep work will start in the next couple of weeks, and construction will begin in October 2025. The majority of construction will be complete by Spring 2028. Construction will be paused for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games Exclusive Use Period at the LACC between June and October 2028 to allow for the Games to occur. After the 2028 Games, construction will resume and the project will be complete in May 2029. Planners can book events in the new spaces after 2028.

Caesars Launches Event Wellness Guide

Sept. 19, 2025—The Caesars Entertainment National Meetings and Events team launched a comprehensive white paper this week on wellness for industry professionals. The report includes data on the benefits of integrating wellness into events, a helpful FAQ sheet, and a sample agenda infused with wellness activations to inspire planners and demonstrate how easily wellness can be incorporated. It builds on the wellness menus, Global Wellness Forum, and the company’s recent nationwide wellness road show.

“With wellness now a $6 billion—and rapidly growing—industry, we’re proud to be a thought leader in this initiative and a resource to all meeting planners,” said Kelly Gleeson Smith, senior vice president of sales with Caesars Entertainment National Meetings & Events.

Smart Meetings Says: Incorporating healthy food options, movement activities and mental health in agendas is good for audiences and companies that enjoy higher engagement and good-will. Having the data to back up these findings will be helpful for planners advocating with executive teams.

Sundance Mountain Resort Remembers Founder Robert Redford

Sept. 19, 2025—Sundance Mountain Resort built a memorial in the Resort Village at the Rehearsal Hall Pond, where guests and fans of recently-departed Robert Redford are invited to pay their respects. The Sundance founder died at his Utah home on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the age of 89.

More than a Hollywood visionary and filmmaking legend, Redford was described as a passionate steward of the land, an artist who championed creativity, and the heart behind Sundance Mountain Resort’s soul. A devoted environmental activist, storyteller and creator of place, Redford shaped Sundance Resort into a living canvas where inspiration flourishes and where wild beauty and human connection uplift one another. He saw Sundance Resort not only as a destination, but as a community for artists, adventurers and nature lovers – a place that balances his personal passions and offers space for every guest to feel grounded, inspired and connected all at once.

For more than fifty years, Redford’s commitment to “develop a little and preserve a lot” has guided every step at Sundance Resort. Today, over 70% of the resort’s acreage remains protected through conservation easements, including the Redford Family Nature & Wildlife Preserve, allowing nature to thrive and creativity to flourish. Robert Redford’s legacy is more than a story from the past; it’s the foundation of Sundance Mountain Resort’s present and future. His enduring influence continues to shape this remarkable place—a living testament to the power of vision, stewardship, and the spirit of independent creativity.

Smart Meetings Says: Sundance Mountain Resort is a special place an a visionary like Robert Redford will be dearly missed.

Visit Buffalo Launches Bold New Brand and National Campaign

Sept. 16, 2025—Visit Buffalo has launched a multimillion-dollar rebrand and marketing campaign aimed at reshaping the city’s image and drawing new visitors. Titled “That’s Buffalo For You,” the campaign features digital, billboard, video and social ads in key markets like Boston, D.C., Chicago and Philadelphia.

The effort includes a new name: Visit Buffalo, shortened from Visit Buffalo Niagara, with messaging centered on phrases like “Polished Grit,” “Refreshingly Spicy” and “Historically New,” spotlighting the city’s revitalized spaces, global food scene and historic architecture.

The initiative, created with MMGY Global, is the largest in the DMO’s history, backed by a $3 million budget and feedback from local creatives. It complements expanded PR efforts led by Lou Hammond Group, which has already helped bring 30+ travel writers to the city this year. With 10 million annual visitors generating $2.7 billion in local impact, the campaign aims to further boost Buffalo’s profile as a destination full of unexpected charm and local pride.

Smart Meetings says: For meeting profs, it’s a strong signal that Buffalo is ready for the spotlight—and your next event.

EIC to Release Economic Significance Study on Advocacy Day 2026

Sept. 16, 2025—The Events Industry Council (EIC) will release the next iteration of the Global Economic Significance of Business Events Study in conjunction with Global Meetings Industry Day 2026, which EIC will now lead.

First published in 2017, EIC’s Economic Significance Study evaluates the full scope and economic impact of the $1.6 trillion global business events industry (source: 2023 ESS). Regularly quoted in industry and mainstream media and leveraged by a wide swath of industry stakeholders—including corporations, nonprofit industry organisations, advocacy professionals, investors, developers, destinations and academia worldwide—the 2023 report has been accessed by more than 10,000 users across 40 countries.

Smart Meetings says: Research that shows the outsized impact of live events plays a critical role in gaining support for initiatives that help meeting professionals navigate changing conditions.

Vegas Launches a Fun, Revamped Airport Rideshare Space

Sept. 15, 2025—Las Vegas unveiled a redesigned rideshare pickup area at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), transforming the Terminal 1 experience to match the city’s vibrant spirit. The revamped space, dubbed “Fabulous Pickups,” was officially launched with a lively celebration featuring showgirls and a DJ. It welcomed visitors arriving for a busy weekend of events, including Mexican Independence Day celebrations, concerts and the Canelo vs. Crawford fight at Allegiant Stadium.

The updated pickup zone boasts colorful lighting, additional seating and a custom neon selfie wall, giving travelers a fun and stylish way to start their Las Vegas adventure. The area will be enhanced on select days with live music, DJs and special activations, making arrivals even more memorable. This facelift is part of the broader “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” brand campaign, which aims to showcase the city’s excitement through various broadcasts, activations, experiences, and partnerships.

Steve Hill, CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), praised the effort, saying, “We’ve created a space as vibrant and welcoming as Las Vegas itself.” Additionally, the airport features “Fabulous photo moments,” including a new installation by the A/B checkpoint where visitors can snap pictures with Vegas Vicki and strike a fun pose to share. Jim Chrisley, Clark County’s director of aviation, emphasized that the airport team is committed to making every arrival memorable. He highlighted that the redesigned rideshare area offers an unforgettable first impression that reflects Las Vegas’ distinctive character.

Smart Meetings says: After experiencing rideshare experiences across the country that feel more like an escape room than a welcome, it will be fun to test the new entry at IMEX.

Jamaica Embraces a New Tourism Campaign

Sept. 15, 2025—The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB)  launched a new digital campaign titled “There’s Always More to Jamaica,” aimed at promoting community-based tourism (CBT) and showcasing the island’s authentic local experiences. This initiative seeks to encourage international visitors to look beyond Jamaica’s famous beaches and resorts, exploring the vibrant culture, traditions and grassroots enterprises that make the island unique.

Minister of Tourism Hon. Edmund Bartlett emphasized that Jamaica’s tourism appeal extends beyond its scenic landscapes, highlighting the importance of engaging with local communities. “Community-based tourism offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in our culture, while also benefitting farmers, artisans and local communities,” he said.

The campaign, which runs until November 2025 on major social media platforms including Google, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube (@DiscoverMoreToJamaica), targets audiences in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. Its goal is to position Jamaica as a destination for immersive, locally led experiences that foster meaningful cultural connections. The campaign features Kingston-based content creator Justin Whitelocke, who guides viewers through eco-adventures, heritage tours, craft workshops, culinary stops and marine excursions—highlighting Jamaica’s creativity, warmth and community spirit. Donovan White, Jamaica’s director of tourism, said the initiative introduces travelers to the “Jamaica they haven’t met yet,” emphasizing authenticity and grassroots economic support.

Smart Meetings says: This initiative tracks with results from SITE and IRF’s Incentive Travel Index Survey that shows 95% of attendees would like to have new, authentic experiences when they visit a destination.

Visit Philadelphia Kicks off National Campaign for 250th Anniversary

Sept. 11, 2025—Visit Philadelphia has kicked off a $9 million campaign to draw in visitors from around the nation. The official kickoff of the campaign began on September 9th, in honor of when the Second Continental Congress adopted the name “United States of America” in 1776.

“Whether it’s your first visit to Philadelphia or your fiftieth, 2026 is the year to experience our city,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “We’re inviting the nation to join us for 52 weeks of celebrations, from new exhibitions and neighborhood festivals to major sporting events, while reminding our residents that this milestone is theirs to celebrate too. There’s no better place to mark the nation’s 250th than right here in Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy.”

The campaign’s title, “Anything But Silent” delivers the message that Philadelphia has been loud, proud and unafraid to lead for 250 years.

Smart Meeting says: Philadelphia is making sure the celebration is anything but silent, with a year-long lineup that proves the birthplace of American democracy is still loud, proud and leading the way.

Visit Buffalo Launches Multimillion-dollar Campaign

Sept. 11, 2025—Visit Buffalo has announced a multimillion-dollar campaign to reshape the city’s image by growing the local tourism economy, drawing in new visitors and encouraging new media coverage. The campaign will consist of digital, video, outdoor billboards and social media advertising.

“This is a pivotal moment for Buffalo’s visitor economy,” said Patrick Kaler, president and CEO of Visit Buffalo. “For the first time, we have the resources and visibility to share Buffalo’s story on a national scale. This campaign is about more than tourism — it’s about redefining how the world sees Buffalo and celebrating the qualities that make this community remarkable.”

The advertising campaign, titled, ” That’s Buffalo For you”, the $3 million campaign will target cities like D.C., Chicago, Boston and Philadelphia.

Smart Meeting says: With a bold new brand and $3M ad campaign, Buffalo is reclaiming it’s narrative, positioning itself as a fresh destination where heritage and reinvention meet. Stay tuned to Smart Meetings for what’s to come from Buffalo.

Legends and ASM Global Unite as Legends Global

Sept. 10, 2025—Legends and ASM Global have formally united under  Legends Global. This follows the formal acquisition of ASM Global by Legends in August of 2024.

Legends Global’s services collection covers many aspects, including feasibility and consulting, owner reps, sales, partnerships, venue management, hospitality, merchandise, content and booking. Together, the network has more than 450 venues around the world and can host over 165 million guests yearly.

“Legends Global is uniting with a shared commitment to excellence and with one clear focus: delivering world-class experiences at unmatched scale and quality for our partners,” said Dan Levy, CEO of Legends Global. “Our global network, expertise, and passion for bringing people together allow us to serve our partners and their guests with seamless execution and constant innovation. This new era positions us to shape the future of live entertainment across the world’s most iconic venues and events.”

Smart Meetings says: Partnership is the foundation of our industry. It is always great to see how connections can thrive and help improve our industry as a whole. We can’t wait to see the growth and development of what the future holds for Legends Global.

Convening Leaders 2025 Earns Top Platinum Certification

Sept. 9, 2025—Professional Convention Management Association’s (PCMA) annual flagship event, Convening Leaders 2025 (CL25), has achieved the prestigious Platinum Level Certification under the Events Industry Council’s (EIC) Sustainable Event Standards, marking a significant leap from last year’s Silver Certification. This recognition underscores PCMA’s leadership in integrating sustainability into business events.

“Achieving Platinum Certification isn’t just a badge—it’s a clear statement that sustainability is embedded in every decision we make,” said PCMA President and CEO Sherrif Karamat. The certification reflects a commitment to transforming events into responsible drivers of global change.

Developed through a collaborative, global process, the EIC standards set performance criteria across key areas, including climate action, water management, circularity, diversity, equity, and social impact. More than 300 professionals contributed to refining these standards, ensuring they are practical and impactful for event organizers. The standards also offer guidance on measurement and improvement, supporting industry-wide sustainability efforts.

EIC President and CEO, Amy Calvert, praised PCMA’s achievement, “This demonstrates that true progress occurs when sustainability is a core principle, not a side initiative.”

CL25 attracted 3,800 attendees in Houston and 700 online, all benefiting from sustainability strategies aligned with EIC standards, developed in collaboration with Honeycomb Strategies and verified independently by the Alliance for Audited Media. Richard Murphy, CEO of AAM, commended PCMA’s “deep commitment to environmental stewardship and accountability.”

Smart Meetings says: This achievement highlights how industry-leading organizations like PCMA are setting new standards for sustainability in event planning, demonstrating that environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand with innovation and excellence.

PCMA Convening Leaders 2026 Reveals Main Stage Speaker

Sept. 5, 2025—Convening Leaders 2026 (CL26) will mark the 70th year the association has held conferences. Next year, the annual conference will focus of ideas and strategies in the global business events industry.

Zanny Minton Beddoes, editor-in-chief of The Economist, will deliver the main keynote, highlighting business, AI and innovation in the business events industry.

Sherrif Karamat, CAE, PCMA and CEMA president and CEO, said, “As we return to our founding city, CL26 is both a celebration and a call to action to reshape what’s possible for the next generation of the global business events community. Ms. Minton Beddoes will undoubtedly provide participants with the geopolitical and economic context we need to make strategic decisions amidst the current economic climate.”

CL26 is . Registration is open.

Amex GBT Closes $540 Million Deal for Rival CWT

Sept. 2, 2025—American Express Global Business Travel has officially absorbed longtime competitor CWT in a $540 million deal, marking one of the most significant consolidations in the corporate travel sector in years. The acquisition, first announced in March 2024, closed on September 2 and is expected to deliver $155 million in annual cost savings within three years.

For Amex GBT, the move is about scale and software. CWT clients now gain access to Amex GBT’s travel and expense platforms Neo and Egencia, as well as Select, which connects with major tech partners. They’ll also plug into Amex GBT’s broader suite of services, from meetings and events to sustainability consulting, alongside the industry’s largest managed travel marketplace.

“This acquisition will generate greater investment capacity for our software and services,” said Amex GBT CEO Paul Abbott, emphasizing that integration will focus on building trust with CWT’s customer base.

The deal signals continued consolidation in corporate travel as providers push for efficiency and broader reach. Amex GBT said it will update its 2025 guidance, including the impact of the CWT acquisition, on its November earnings call.

Smart Meetings says: It’s too soon to see how this plays out for professional meeting planners, but a host of tools and services within a single platform could make event planning easier. AMEX has a long-held reputation for offering best-in-class services, and we expect nothing less with this acquisition.

Dubai Welcomed 9.88 Million International Visitors in H1 2025, a 6% Increase

Aug. 28, 2025—The Government of Dubai pointed to major marketing campaigns, strategic partnerships and MICE performance as the catalysts for a 6% increase in international overnight visitors to 9.88 million in the first half of 2025.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “This milestone reflects Dubai’s steady growth as a focal point for trade, investment, talent and opportunity and its rise as the world’s most connected city.”

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre added over 1,100 companies during that time, pushing total membership to nearly 26,000. The Crypto Centre grew by 38% to exceed 700 members. Growth was driven by demand from China, Türkiye, the UK, expanded licensing options, and real estate and ecosystem investments.

Smart Meetings says: North American gateway cities are competing with robust marketing campaigns and sales efforts for meeting professional international business. Abundant airlift, modern venues and a growing critical mass of business activity in multiple sectors make it a compelling choice.

San Francisco Travel Forecasts Net Visitor Growth in 2025–26

Aug. 28, 2025—San Francisco Travel Association released an updated 2025 and 2026 Visitor and Lodging Forecast that pointed to conventions, global events and major festivals as the fuel for visitor spending of $9.35 billion in 2025 alone.

The report delivered at the annual Visitor Impact Summit, hosted in partnership with the Hotel Council of San Francisco at Grand Hyatt San Francisco, reported a 65% increase in events at Moscone Center compared to 2024 (34 total).

Smart Meetings says: Like other gateway cities, international tourism is down, but high-profile events such as the NBA All-Star Experience, Dead & Company’s weekend concert series in Golden Gate Park, Outside Lands music festival and the Laver Cup tennis tournament have brought U.S. visitors and global interest. The arrival of Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in February 2026 and FIFA World Cup at the same venue in June and July could be even more impactful. That could pay dividends when more traditional international tourism patterns return.

Olympian Meeting and Running Mate Launch Wellness-Focused Running Program for Events

Aug. 26, 2025—Olympian Meeting, the wellness-first event services firm, has partnered with Running Mate, an on-demand runshare platform, to bring curated, safe and social running experiences to conferences and corporate events across the United States.

The new program allows event organizers to offer guided group or individual runs led by fully vetted and background-checked local runners, known as “Running Mates.” Attendees can book directly through the app and enjoy personalized pacing, motivational support and pre-curated city routes.

“We believe wellness doesn’t belong on the sidelines; it should be part of the agenda,” said David T. Stevens, co-founder of Olympian Meeting. “With Running Mate, we’re giving attendees a chance to move safely with purpose, feel great and connect authentically with others while traveling for business.”

Designed to be fully customizable, the program can accommodate events of all sizes, from executive retreats to large-scale conventions. Options include sunrise 5Ks, themed city jogs and brand-sponsored wellness challenges, with activations built to energize attendees and elevate event engagement.

“Our goal is to make running safe, social and accessible anywhere,” said Dena Lewis, founder of Running Mate. “Partnering with Olympian Meeting allows us to create high-impact moments that help people feel their best, mentally and physically, and return safely to events that matter.”

Smart Meetings says: Planners looking to prioritize wellness without sacrificing logistics now have a turnkey solution to keep attendees moving. From branded runs to early-morning group jogs, this new partnership makes it easier than ever to lace up wellness into the event agenda.

AIC Hotel Group Expands MICE Team Across North America

Aug. 26, 2025—AIC Hotel Group has expanded its meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) department, adding seven new sales executives to strengthen its presence across key regions in the United States and Canada.

The new team members will report to Luke Majewski, recently named associate vice president of meetings, incentive groups and corporate travel programs.

“Having grown within the company, I’ve witnessed firsthand the passion and dedication that defines our approach to meetings and incentives,” Majewski said. “I look forward to finding innovative ways to elevate our offerings and set new standards within the industry.”

The expanded team will focus on driving group business to AIC’s portfolio, which includes Hard Rock Hotels in Mexico and the Dominican Republic; Nobu Hotels in Los Cabos, Chicago and Miami Beach; and the Unico Hotel Collection. Key group properties include Ava Resort Cancun, with 90,000 square feet of flexible venue space, and Unico 20°105° Hotel Riviera Nayarit, a boutique retreat opening this fall near Puerto Vallarta.

The expansion aligns with AIC’s strategy to grow its leadership in destination group travel by offering curated event experiences, premium amenities and a hands-on planning approach across its luxury and all-inclusive brands.

Smart Meetings says: With group travel demand on the rise, now is the time for planners to explore new partnerships and venues. AIC’s expanded sales team offers fresh access points to some of the most talked-about properties in Mexico and the Caribbean—ideal for standout incentive trips and seamless destination meetings.

Greater Merrimack Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau Is Now Revolutionary Valley

Aug. 13, 2025—Greater Merrimack Valley Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMVCVB) announced at the 2025 Annual Conference on Tourism at Hilton Garden Inn in Tewksbury, Massachusetts, that the organization will now be known as Revolutionary Valley.

GMVCVB was formed in 1992 in Lowell, under the name of Revolutions and Textiles in the organization. “We recognized that the Greater Merrimack Valley Convention and Visitor’s (GMV CVB) Bureau has not accurately showcased the spirit and depth of the region, as well as its actual footprint,” said Brian Bradbury, executive director for Revolutionary Valley. “The Merrimack Valley itself extends further north and east, including into New Hampshire and GMV CVB has never been properly aligned to represent this region.”

The renamed tourism district encompasses 21 cities and towns, including Acton, Burlington, Tewksbury and Wilmington.

Big Bus Tours to Acquire Italian Tour Operator Touristation

Aug. 12, 2025—Big Bus Tours, a global operator of sightseeing experiences, has announced the acquisition of Rome-based Touristation, which organizes guided tours, packages and activities to locations in the city, including Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Colosseum.

Touristation has multiple welcome centers around Rome, providing tourist information and a wide range of additional services, including transfers, food tours and luggage storage.

“This is an incredibly exciting moment for the Group and for our customers, as we will now be able to offer them so many different ways to immerse themselves in Rome,” said Pat Waterman, executive chairman of Big Bus Tours. “Raffaella and her team at Touristation have built an exceptional business offering access to the city’s top attractions through a deep understanding of what today’s traveler expects. Together, we will unlock new ways to help visitors discover the best of Rome through deep, rich, memorable experiences.”

Marriott International and La Tablée Des Chefs Set Goal to Combat Food Insecurity

Aug. 6, 2025—Marriott has announced the expansion of its partnership with La Tablée des Chefs, a Canadian nonprofit. Through the ready-to-cook soups initiative, the two organizations will collaborate to distribute 500,000 portions of soup to communities in need by the end of 2025.

This effort is aligned with Serve360, Marriott’s global sustainability and social impact platform. Marriott Hotels of Canada and La Tablée des Chefs have been partners since 2023; since then, more than 75 Marriott properties across Canada’s nine provinces have donated over 127,000 meals to local communities in need.

“I’m incredibly proud to see Marriott Hotels of Canada actively engaged in the fight against food insecurity. Whether through our Food Recovery program or by producing and distributing dry soup to families in need, this institution demonstrates a solidarity and generosity that resonates across the country,” said Jean-François Archambault, founder and general director of La Tablée des Chefs. “Having started my career with Marriott, I find it particularly touching to see that they support the social movement we’ve built. It’s always stimulating and reassuring to work hand in hand, with the same values and convictions, to build a better world.”

Journey Beyond Acquires Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks Ningaloo

Aug. 6, 2025—Journey Beyond, an Australia-based experiential tourism group, has acquired Exmouth Dive & Whalesharks Ningaloo (EDWN), a marine tour operator that offers whale shark swims and diving tours on the Ningaloo Reef.

Alicia Triggs, Executive General Manager, Sales and Partnerships at Journey Beyond, commented, “[EDWN’s] offering perfectly aligns with Journey Beyond’s commitment to delivering truly unforgettable tourism experiences that take guests beyond the ordinary. Ningaloo is a one-of-a-kind destination, and we’re excited to bring this exceptional experience closer to our guests.”

Portman Acquires The Westin Cincinnati

Aug. 5, 2025—Full-service real estate investment firm Portman has purchased The Westin Cincinnati in downtown Cincinnati, the company’s first hotel acquisition.

The hotel gives its guests direct access to several of the city’s entertainment venues and event spaces, such as Paycor Stadium, Duke Energy Convention Center and the newly renovated Court Street Plaza. The firm will also serve as the master developer for the city’s new Marriott convention center headquarters hotel.

“The Westin Cincinnati is a terrific representation of the opportunity we are seeking across our hospitality platform: a world-class brand, impactful and irreplaceable real estate in a major market and the potential to create long-term value through thoughtful investment and operational enhancement,” said Kaunteya Chitnis, managing director of hospitality for Portman. “We look forward to leveraging our 70-year legacy in hospitality to help shape the future of this great American city.”

Portman’s hospitality portfolio includes seven hotels in five markets, encompassing more than 3,000 guest rooms.

Visit Savannah’s Jeff Hewitt to Retire After 40 Years in Tourism

Aug. 4, 2025—Visit Savannah has announced that Jeff Hewitt, the organization’s chief sales officer, will retire on Dec. 31, 2025, marking the close of a four-decade career in tourism and hospitality.

Hewitt joined Visit Savannah in 2010 and played a key role in positioning the city as a leading destination for meetings and group travel. During his tenure, annual room night production grew from 80,000 to over 315,000 in 2024, hotel inventory doubled, and the Savannah Convention Center underwent a major expansion.

“After 40 years in the tourism and hospitality industry, I look back with tremendous gratitude,” said Hewitt. “I’ve been fortunate to work with a passionate team, and I will leave knowing Savannah’s future is secure in their hands.”

Hewitt’s industry influence extended nationally through leadership roles with ASAE, PCMA, Destinations International and more. He currently serves as chairman of the Georgia Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus.

“Jeff’s impact on Savannah’s success as a meetings and tourism destination cannot be overstated,” said Joseph Marinelli, president and CEO of Visit Savannah. “His deep industry knowledge and passion for this city helped shape how the world sees Savannah.”

Kellie Linder, named vice president of sales and services, will step into the role beginning January 2026.

Visit Anaheim and NAMM Extend Partnership Through 2030

July 31, 2025—Visit Anaheim has announced that  NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) will remain hosted at the Anaheim Convention Center through 2030.

“For five decades, NAMM has helped shape Anaheim’s identity as a gathering place for music, creativity, and connection,” said Mike Waterman, president and CEO of Visit Anaheim. “This renewed commitment through 2030 reflects the strength of our partnership and the shared value we bring to the city, the industry, and the community.”

The agreement coincides with NAMM’s 125th anniversary and 50 years of The NAMM Show in Anaheim.

Arlington, Texas, Sees Record-Breaking Visitation in 2024

July 29, 2025—A record-breaking 16.3 million visitors traveled to Arlington in 2024, according to the Longwoods International 2024 Travel USA Visitor Profile Study.

These visitation number demonstrate a 4.5% increase in visitation from 2023, which saw 15.6 million visitors and a 10.5% boost in visitor spending from the previous year’s $2.8 billion, at $3.1 billion.

Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau attributes the visitation numbers to several factors, such as MLB All-Star Week and increase attendance to its MLB Texas Rangers games, the opening of Arlington Convention Center and attached Loews Arlington Hotel, and the highly anticipated Mike Tyson-Jake Paul boxing match at AT&T Stadium, which made November 2024 the city’s top revenue month in its history.

“These impressive numbers show how Arlington continues to grow as one of America’s top entertainment destinations,” said Brent DeRaad, president and CEO for ACVB. “Our incredible restaurants and attractions, along with arts and culture, shopping, local events that draw visitors, and our universities contribute to what makes Arlington such a vibrant and exciting place to visit.”

Bishop-McCann Expands Incentive Travel Offerings With New Acquisition

July 24, 2025—In Bishop-McCann’s third acquisition in five years, the event management and incentive company has acquired MTI Events, a Kansas City-based event and incentive travel company. Incentive travel is growing, with 58% of leadership viewing incentive as playing a greater role in motivation teams and building culture, according to the 2024 Incentive Travel Index.

“This is more than a business move; it’s a values match,” said Rob Adams, CEO and partner of Bishop-McCann. “We’ve long admired MTI Events for its people-first philosophy, deep incentive expertise, and ability to deliver memorable, joyful experiences. Bringing MTI into the Bishop-McCann team allows us to serve our clients with even greater creativity, scale, and strategic insight.”

The Driskell Hotel Begins Full Renovation

July 23, 2025—The Driskill in Austin, Texas, has announced plans for a full renovation, which will include a revamp of its 175 guest rooms, public and private spaces, and dining outlets, as well as a new ballroom, cocktail bar and retail space.

“Pixiu and Woodbine [the developers behind the renovation project] purchased The Driskill with a commitment to stewarding it for generations to come,” said T. Dupree Scovell, managing partner at Woodbine. “In addition to preserving this Texas treasure’s storied legacy and unique traditions, this historic renovation will bring Texans together from all over the state to enjoy the Grand Dame of our state in fresh and new ways. Whether our guests come to the property for a meal, a meeting or a momentous occasion, this transformation is going to elevate the experience they have with us—as well as the caliber of the memories they take away. We couldn’t be more excited about that.”

The first phase of the renovation will debut in fall 2025, it will include the update to Driskill Bar and Driskill Grill and 110 tower guest rooms, along with its new bar, The Victorian, and new 2,800-square-foot ballroom. The second phase is set to be completed in summer 2026 and will include the lobby and original 74 guest rooms. The Driskill’s renovation will be complete in December 2026, its 140th anniversary.

Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown Installs 275 Solar Panels

July 21, 2025—Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown has installed 275 solar panels on its rooftop in an effort to offset energy consumption. The solar panels are expected to produce 130,000 kilowatt hours and offset electricity by at least 2%.

“Adding solar panels to our rooftop significantly increases our commitment to energy conservation, and the reduction of carbon emissions contributes to a cleaner environment”, states Mark Huntley regional vice president and general manager.

This is part of an initiative developed by the hotel’s Sustainability Committee, which develops a number of programs, including four rooftop honeybee hives, the elimination of all single-use plastics, a composting program and more.

Hosts Global Launches Hosts Hawaii

July 17, 2025—Hosts Global recently announced the launch of Hosts Hawaii, set to open fall 2025 with services across Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.

Hosts Hawaii will be led by Josh Jones, DMCP, long-time Hosts Global team member, most recently serving as regional general manager for the West, which includes Southern California, Las Vegas and Seattle.

“Hawaii has long been one of the most in-demand destinations in our industry, and we knew it was time to bring the Hosts standard of service to the islands,” said Kurt Paben, CEO of Hosts Global. “[Jones] is the ideal leader to take this on. His gift for building trusted client relationships, his ability to creatively execute their vision with intention, and his thoughtful approach to event design and operations—combined with his respect for the local culture—make him the perfect person to lead this exciting expansion.”

Gaylord National Resort Breaks Ground on One of the East Coast’s Largest Hotel Solar Installations

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center has begun construction on a solar energy project to reduce the resort’s carbon footprint.

The new rooftop solar array’s 3.5-acre coverage will feature 4,696 solar panels. Once it’s up and running—construction is expected to be completed Q1 2026—the system will generate 3.4 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, enough to provide the property with 20% of the resort’s total energy needs. The system will reduce emissions equal to the CO2 removed by 40,000 trees over 10 years.

“This project is a powerful example of how hospitality can lead the way in environmental responsibility,” said Dan McKeon, area general manager at Gaylord National. “By investing in renewable energy, we’re not only reducing our carbon footprint—we’re also helping to ease demand on the local power grid, especially during peak usage periods.”

One10 Acquires Employee Engagement Company

July 16, 2025—One10, a company that specializes in software solutions for incentives, travel, events and marketing, has acquired Whistle, an employee engagement and rewards technology company based in St. Louis.

One10 has been making moves to expand its capabilities and solutions, and this acquisition is part of that plan.

“By joining forces with One10, we’re combining Whistle’s agile technology with One10’s proven expertise and scale, delivering clients even more powerful ways to drive performance,” said Drew Carter, president of performance solutions for One10. “This partnership expands what’s possible – making it easier and faster for companies to engage employees and channel partners in meaningful, measurable ways.”

Downtown Cincinnati Headquarters Hotel to Be a Marriott

June 15, 2025—As part of the renovated Downtown Convention District, downtown Cincinnati will add a new $536 million Marriott headquarters hotel.

The 700-room Marriott will be across the street and connected to the new Duke Energy Convention Center via skywalk. The new property will feature 62,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and a 17,000-square-foot terrace. The hotel is scheduled to open in 2028.

Visit Orlando Receives Three Awards for Tourism Excellence

July 14, 2025—Visit Orlando announced three recent accolades. The convention and visitors bureau (CVB) received awards honoring its leadership in travel and tourism Destination Marketing Accreditation program, its dedication to Central Florida with the 8th Harris Rosen Philanthropic Award and the city’s commitment to creating a positive workplace with the Orlando Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in Central Florida for the third year in a row.

“I’m incredibly proud how Visit Orlando continues to lead with purpose—driving economic growth, elevating our destination and giving back to the community in meaningful ways,” said Barb Bowden, chair of the board of directors for Visit Orlando. “These recognitions highlight the organization’s far-reaching impact and its longstanding commitment to making Central Florida a better place to live, work and visit.”

Visit Anaheim Reaches Tourism Milestone Ahead of 2028 Olympics

July 14, 2025—Visit Anaheim has announced a tourism milestone of 26.3 million visitors in 2024, resulting in 2.3% rise in spending from the previous year that totals $6.6 billion.

“With the Olympics only three years away, this announcement comes at a critical moment to showcase Anaheim’s growing momentum as we continue to move through the city’s Golden Decade,” says Mike Waterman, president and CEO, Visit Anaheim. “As the city prepares to host indoor volleyball at Honda Center in 2028, along with milestone developments like OCVIBE and the DisneylandForward expansion, Visit Anaheim is setting the stage to continue breaking visitation records in the coming years.”

Anaheim is looking to grow its offerings with five new hotels by 2030.

Cleveland to Host National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals Conference in 2028

July 11, 2025—Destination Cleveland recently announced that the city was selected to host the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals Annual Conference in 2028.

“It’s an honor to be selected as the host city for the 2028 National Coalition of Black Meetings Professionals Conference,” said David Gilbert, president and CEO of Destination Cleveland. “This is another big win for Cleveland. We can showcase the city as a meetings host to key decision makers who have significant buying power and influence on booking future business in Cleveland. We’re looking forward to showing this group what makes Cleveland stand out – from our world-class meetings and conventions facilities to our diversity, creativity and contagious passion.”

The conference is estimated to host 550 attendees between Nov. 29th and Dec. 2nd, 2028.

Destinations International and TravelAbility Launch Updated Accessibility Playbook

July 10, 2025—Destinations International (DI) and TravelAbility have announced an updated edition of the Accessibility Playbook.

The Accessibility Playbook, originally released in 2023, offers information for destination organizations to provide actionable resources and strategies for serving travelers with disabilities.

“Accessibility is a critical and growing focus for our members,” said Don Welsh, president & CEO of Destinations International. “The expanded Playbook reflects our continued commitment to supporting our members and partners in building welcoming communities for all. We’re delighted to have TravelAbility as our trusted partner in developing this invaluable resource to help destination organizations and travel businesses worldwide advance accessibility in their local communities.”

Key features of the 2025 update include:

• AI Companion, powered by UnchainedAI, to implement accessibility strategies cross-functionally
• Updated research on market size and traveler needs
• The experiences of aging and disabled travelers
• Case studies and best practices from around the world
• Innovations and assistive technologies for real-world use
• Guidance on building the business case for accessibility
• Tools for communications, digital design and the visitor experience

MPI Offers Support to Texas Flood Victims

July 9, 2025—MPI’s President and CEO, Paul M. Deveter released a heartfelt statement in support of those impacted by the Texas floods in Kerrville and the Texas Hill Country over the 4th of July weekend.

“Our thoughts are with the families and communities forever changed – especially with our friends and colleagues in the MPI Hill Country  Chapter,” said Deveter.

In his message, Deveter also provided links to resources from search and rescue to meals, shelter and recovery. See the links below for further information.

Kerr County Flood Relief Funds

American Red Cross – Central & South Texas

Mercy Chefs

Kerrville Pets Alive

ASAE Announces 129 Professionals Earned CAE Credential

July 8, 2025—ASAE recently gave One hundred and twenty-nine association executives earned their certified association executive (CAE) credential from ASAE’s CAE Commission, following the spring CAE exam May 1-14. More than 4,500 industry leaders currently have their CAE.

“Congratulations to the newest class of CAEs! This milestone is a testament to your dedication, expertise, and commitment to advancing the profession,” said TJ Coté, MBA, CAE, chair of the CAE Commission, and president and CEO of NextGen Association Management. “By earning the CAE credential, you join a community of leaders who are driving meaningful impact in associations and the industries they support.”

The newly credited CAEs will be honored with the December 2024 class during the 2025 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition in Los Angeles Aug. 9-12.

Saudi Arabia Tops 100 Million Domestic and Inbound Tourists Mark for Second Year in a Row

July 1, 2025—Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism has released its 2024 Annual Statistical Report on tourism in the nation.

According to the report, Saudi Arabia welcomed 116 million domestic and inbound tourists in 2024, a 6% increase from 2023; the Ministry highlighted that the nation achieved a record number of inbound tourists of about 30 million in 2024, an 8% increase compared to 2023.

Domestic tourism also saw an increase of 5%, with 86.2 million domestic tourists experiencing the nation in 2024. Total spend in 2024 of approximately SAR 284 billion (US $75 billion), an 11% growth year-over-year.

Terramar DMC Mourns the Loss of Industry Leader Lee Chipman

July 1, 2025—Terramar DMC has announced the sudden passing of Lee Chipman, a member of the organization’s executive team and longtime figure in the meetings and events industry.

“Lee wasn’t just a leader at Terramar—he was the heart of our culture,” said Sunny Irvine, owner of Terramar DMC. “His passion for the industry, his unwavering integrity, and the joy he brought to every room were unmatched. I’ve lost not only a colleague but a dear friend. His impact on Terramar, on me personally, and on our entire industry will be felt for years to come.”

Chipman worked for nearly three decades with Hilton and a decade with Terramar, during which he mentored future leaders, built relationships and left a legacy throughout Mexico, Panama, the United States and beyond.

During this time, Lisa DeLeon and Matt Cuevas will be heading operations.

Universal Plans Second ‘Universal Horror Unleashed’ in Chicago

June 26, 2025—Universal Destinations & Experiences announced that Chicago is the second location for Universal Horror Unleashed, its year-round immersive horror experience.

The project, expected to begin construction in early 2026 and open in 2027, will be Universal’s first branded experience in the Midwest. Located across from the new Bally’s hotel, the horror-themed attraction will feature mazes, themed bars, and food and beverage offerings.

“Universal Horror Unleashed delivers on our promise to create highly immersive and terrifying horror  experiences that connect with fans year-round,” said Page Thompson, president of New Ventures at Universal Destinations & Experiences. “We’re excited to bring this bold concept to life in Chicago, a  city known for its vibrant culture. We’re grateful for the City and State’s support as we convert this  dormant site into a unique attraction that showcases our storytelling expertise and ability to deliver  mind blowing experiences that shatter guest expectations.”

This follows the construction of Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, set to open in August 2025. Universal also announced its intent to build its first new theme park and resort in Europe, with its eyes on the United Kingdom.

ASAE Survey: Anxiety, Pressure, ‘Wait and See,’ But Also Opportunities

June 26, 2025–Associations continue to be buffeted as U.S. industries and professions react to federal policy shifts, but they are also “stepping up to lead,” reports the latest Insight Update survey by American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).

Whipsawing federal priorities have sparked particular concern about “reductions in federal funding, evolving economic and trade policies and workforce challenges.”

Key findings of the survey sent to 3,047 CEOs of associations and association management companies (with 164 responses analyzed) include:

• Opportunities amid uncertainty: While many association leaders are concerned about risk, they are identifying new opportunities through stronger advocacy, deregulation benefits and cross-sector partnerships.
• Federal funding worries: Reductions in government grants—especially in research, health care and education—are creating widespread anxiety.
• Trade and economic pressures: Tariffs, international trade disruptions and inflation are straining supply chains and driving up business costs.
• A cautious outlook: Many organizations are taking a “wait-and-see” approach amid ongoing policy ambiguity and political gridlock.
• Sector-specific impacts: The extent of impact varies by sector, with health care, education and research-based organizations among the hardest hit.

“Associations are on the front lines of navigating the ripple effects of federal policy shifts across every sector of the economy,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, adding that surveys such as this one underscore the importance of “timely, data-driven intelligence to help association leaders anticipate challenges, seize opportunities and advocate effectively for the industries and professions they serve.”

Hurricane Erick Hits Southern Mexico With Category 3 Flooding

June 20, 2025—In the third major hurricane in less than two years and the first Eastern Pacific major hurricane to landfall in Mexico before August. Hurricane Erick, in what was initially a Category 4 storm upon approach was downgraded to a Category 3 storm before making landfall, hit Mexico’s Pacific coast, between the towns of Acapulco and Puerto Escondido, Thursday morning, leaving two dead. The hurricane dissipated Thursday night.

Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection resorts in Huatulco reported that its properties, Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa and Dreams Huatulco Resort & Spa have remained fully operational and has suffered no major damage, as well as its airport Bahias De Huatulco International Airport (HUX).

Tom Brady, Jim Gray and Jeffrey Soffer Unveil Hall of Excellence at Fontainebleau LV

June 18, 2025—On June 20, Fontainebleau Las Vegas will open Hall of Excellence, a collaboration among seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady, sportscasting legend Jim Gray and Fontainebleau Development Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Soffer.

The museum has been created to honor the greatest sports and entertainment moments.

“Everybody in the [Hall of Excellence] has people that inspired them, that supported them, that held them up,” Brady said at a morning news conference celebrating the museum’s opening. “Nobody can do it alone, we all need each other, we need to support one another, we need to build people up.”

Items on display include all seven of Brady’s Super Bowl rings, the bat used by Jackie Robinson to break baseball’s color barrier in 1947, Kobe Bryant’s first nationally televised game jersey in 1996, the golf ball used by Tiger Woods during his first Masters victory in 1997, Billie Jean King’s well-known tennis dress worn during her famous match against male competitor Bobby Riggs in 1974 and Oprah Winfrey’s Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2013 and Tony Award for “The Color Purple” in 2016. Visitors will be able to explore this through a self-guided audio tour narrated by actor Morgan Freeman.

Tickets can be purchased here.

The Bahamas Starts Initiative to Combat Coral Reef Crisis

June 18, 2025—The Bahamas recently launched an aggressive national conservation initiative to reverse the damage made to its coral reefs due to warming ocean temperatures and the introduction of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease, a highly lethal coral disease which has spread to all major Bahamian islands.

The coral rescue initiative has been created through a collaboration by a long list of organizations in the Bahamas, including the Department of Marine Resources, the Department of Environmental Planning and Protection, and the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute.

Additionally, Atlantic Paradise Island opened the country’s first coral gene bank to propagate and replant healthy coral on damaged reefs. The Bahamas Coral Gene Bank can accommodate up to 200 large coral colonies.

“Today’s opening marks a major milestone and also represents just the beginning,” said Atlantis Blue Project Foundation Executive Director Debra Erickson. “The Bahamas Coral Gene Bank at Atlantis Paradise Island is more than a facility—it is a symbol of hope, a safeguard for biodiversity, and a strategic investment in long-term reef resilience. It not only strengthens national conservation capacity but also inspires young Bahamians to take on leadership roles in the stewardship of our natural resources.”

Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau Announced Major Art Installations for 2026

June 17, 2025—During the U.S. Travel Association’s IPW 2025, it was announced by the Philadelphia Convention Center and Visitors Bureau that there will be an exciting addition to Philadelphia’s arts community.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts and the Middleton family will present the most expansive collection of American art ever gathered in Philadelphia to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.

“What makes American art so powerful is not only where it was made, but who made it—and why,” said Sasha Suda, the George D. Widener Director and CEO of the Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA). “A Nation of Artists will highlight the creative contributions of women, immigrants, Indigenous makers, self-taught artists, and academic painters alike, and present a broad and vibrant picture of artistic expression that was happening across the country through both familiar icons and voices that have historically been overlooked. We couldn’t be happier to partner with PAFA and the Middleton family on this once-in-a-generation exhibition, and we look forward to welcoming everyone—from neighbors down the street to visitors from across the region, the country, and around the world—to be part of this celebration.”

The collection will be spread across both the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.

Muralist Meg Saligman will also debut her latest work, Ministry of Awe, a six-story immersive art experience housed inside a 19th-century bank.

Choose Chicago Launches New Community-Driven Marketing Campaign to Amplify Civic Pride and Position Chicago as a Premier Global Destination 

June 16, 2025—Today, Choose Chicago announced the launch of a new marketing campaign to position Chicago as a premier global destination for leisure travel, meetings, and events. Informed and influenced by a year-plus long brand strategy effort consisting of over 300 community and industry listening sessions, focus groups, sentiment surveys, social listening research, and brand showcases, “Never Done.  Never Outdone.” honors the spirit of Chicago—always evolving, always pushing forward, and never satisfied with the status quo. The campaign launches during peak season and as Chicago hosts the U.S. Travel Association’s IPW 2025, the largest inbound international travel trade show in the country. With $5.5 billion of future travel booked across this four-day show, this is Chicago’s moment to tell our story to the global tourism community.

“I could not be more proud to launch Choose Chicago’s new marketing campaign: ‘Never Done. Never Outdone.’” said Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago. “This message is steeped in community and stakeholder feedback and speaks to the continued evolution of our city and our new era of visitor, business and economic domination. I’m grateful for the time and dedication that my team took to listen to our residents, local businesses, and clients and I’m confident that the result will be a campaign that resonates with visitors and locals alike to drive economic vitality through every Chicago neighborhood.”

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker said, “From world-class dining, to beautiful lakefront views, to vibrant neighborhoods ready to explore, Chicago is an ideal destination for visitors from all across the world. Choose Chicago’s new ‘Never Done. Never Outdone.’ campaign is a true testament to all our city has to offer. This new effort will support our already thriving tourism economy, all while supporting countless jobs in cultural, culinary, and hospitality industries across the State of Illinois.”

Hyatt Acquires Playa Hotels & Resorts Properties

June 13, 2025—Hyatt has announced the it has acquired Playa Hotels & Resorts Properties.

Hyatt is excited to have the newly rebranded Dreams la Romana Resort & Spa, Secrets La Romana Resort & Spa, Dreams Hall Resort & Spa, Hyatt Vivid Playa Del Carmen and Sunscape Cancun. These properties will join the eight Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara branded properties that are also managed by Playa.

This new partnership will be able to offer more offerings for MICE  organizers and planners.

Indy Airport Begins Work on New $205.8 Million Hotel

June 13, 2025—The Indianapolis Airport Authority has announced it has broken ground on the new hotel, located on the Indiana International Airport (IND) terminal campus.

“The hotel will help cement the Indy airport’s reputation as ‘The Best Airport in North America’ for decades to come,” said Barbara Glass, IAA Board President. “This hotel will not only be an iconic addition to the airport, but it’s the biggest investment directly benefiting the traveling public since the new terminal itself was built, and it will also be a revenue and job generator for Indianapolis.”

The Westin Indianapolis Airport Hotel will have 253 guest rooms, a full-service restaurant, and a fitness center. The hotel will also have 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting place.

Venu and Aramark Announce Partnership at Flagship Venues

June 10, 2025—Music venue and hospitality destination operator Venu Holding Corporation and Aramark Sports + Entertainment have announced a partnership. Through this partnership, Aramark will operate the concessions, artist and branded venue retail, and facilities management of Venu’s music venues.

This agreement will include three of Venu’s flagship amphitheaters across the United States: Sunset Amphitheater in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, set to open in spring 2026; Sunset Amphitheater in McKinney, Texas, expected to open in summer 2026; and Ford Amphitheater in Colorado Springs, Colorado, which will be an expansion of its existing partnership.

“When you combine the leading name in premium hospitality with our fan-first, experience-driven venues, transformation is inevitable,” said J.W. Roth, founder, chairman and CEO of Venu. “From the very beginning, we’ve been searching for a strategic partner who wouldn’t just match our energy but exceed every expectation. Aramark brings a proven legacy of industry innovation, sustainable sourcing, chef-driven menus, and elevated premium suite and club service. Our experiences are built around the fan, and Aramark’s commitment to excellence makes them the ideal partner to come alongside us in this journey. We couldn’t be more excited about what’s ahead.”

Portola Hotel & Spa Announces Reduced Waste Conference Program

June 11, 2025—Portola Hotel & Spa, the first LEED-Certified hotel in Central California, has recently announced its new Reduced Waste Conference Program in it’s continued journey to sustainable hospitality. The new program encourages communication between the hotel, the planners, and the attendees to work together to reduce waste.

Central features to the program include eliminating single-use plastics, sourcing from local farms, water-efficient practices and partnering with environmentally conscious vendors and suppliers.

“Portola Hotel & Spa has been at the forefront of green hospitality for years, and this program represents the evolution of our foothold as an industry leader,” says Terri D’Ayon Joyce, Director of Sales & Catering at Portola Hotel & Spa. “With the launch of Portola’s Reduced Waste Conference Program, planners now have a seamless way to align their events with their environmental goals without sacrificing quality or guest experience. The hotel isn’t just reducing waste; it’s setting an example for how conferences and meetings can drive real change.”

This program is possible through the partnership with Blue Strike Environmental.

CalSAE to Host Bay Area Day of Service and Social

June 6, 2025—On Friday, June 13, CalSAE will bring together association leaders and meeting professionals to San Francisco’s Chinatown neighborhood for an afternoon of volunteering and socializing.

From 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., the organization will volunteer to help set up the BeChinatown Night Market. The celebration surrounding community, culture and connection in Chinatown. Volunteer work will include closing roads, setting up tents and signage, and grabbing bites from local restaurants.

From 4:30 to 6 p.m., attendees will meet at Far East Café for networking with appetizers and drinks.

If you’d like to attend, register here.

Indiana’s Bloomington Convention Center Breaks Ground

June 3, 2025—Bloomington Convention Center, formerly named Monroe Convention Center, officially broke ground today.

In addition to changing its name, the project will expand the convention center and, when the expansion is completed in 2027, will feature over 70,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, and more than 100,000 sq. ft. of space throughout the entire building.

“Indiana University’s direct connection to walkable downtown Bloomington, with hundreds of restaurants, nightlife spots, shops, attractions, and hotel rooms, creates experiences that can only be found here. These meeting groups want to have their events in Bloomington because of the atmosphere created by the combination of our university culture and community personality,” said Mike McAfee, Visit Bloomington executive director.

Genesis Exhibits Launches Custom GPT

June 3, 2025—Genesis Exhibits has announced the launch of its custom GPT, Trade Show Maestro, an AI consulting solution designed to assist leaders in marketing, events and exhibitions.

“With over 40 years of real-world trade show marketing success behind us, we saw a huge opportunity to help more companies succeed in their face-to-face marketing endeavors by giving them instant access to expert guidance—24/7,” said Glenn Diehl, CEO and president of Genesis Exhibits. “Trade Show Maestro brings together the best of AI technology with the hard-won insights of our team.”

The custom GPT has been trained using Genesis’ event industry knowledge and insights from top event professionals and trade show marketing data.

To check out Trade Show Maestro visit: tradeshowmaestro.ai.

Novobeing and Olympian Meeting Announce Partnership to Enhance Event Wellness Through VR

June 3, 2025—Wellness and therapeutic technology company Novobeing and wellness-centered event design company Olympian Meeting, have announced their partnership to bring evidence-based wellness solutions to global meetings and conferences.

Through this collaboration, Olympian Meeting will be Novobeing’s event services provider, bringing along its holistic event wellness expertise and Novobeing will be the exclusive AR and VR wellness provider for Olympian Meeting.

“We’ve long believed that wellness isn’t a luxury add-on—it’s a strategic advantage,” said David T. Stevens, co-founder of Olympian Meeting and host of the Return on Wellness web series. “Partnering with Novobeing allows us to provide science-backed cutting-edge tools that not only feel good in the moment but yield lasting benefits for attendees and organizers alike.”

San Francisco Travel Releases Aspirational Campaign at Marriott Conference

May 30, 2025—“Believe in San Francisco” is the theme of a new video and ad campaign previewed at Marriott International’s The Exchange, Association Masters event at San Francisco Marriott Marquis on Wednesday. San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie and San Francisco Travel CEO Anna Marie Presutti took the stage to attest that crime is down 30%, the number of events at Moscone Center is up 25% and Charles Barkley is now a believer.

The city remains a hub for innovation and hospitality and will show off those features when it hosts Laver Cub tennis tournament in September and FIFA World Cup and Super Bowl LX in 2026.

Michael Dominguez Receives Global Visionary Award from ASAE at IMEX Frankfurt

May 22, 2025—ASAE honored Michael Dominguez, FASAE, CHSE, with the 2025 Global Association Visionary Award during the IMEX Gala Dinner in Frankfurt.

Dominguez, president and CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), was recognized for his career-long commitment to advancing the visibility and influence of associations worldwide. His leadership has expanded ALHI’s global footprint and strengthened advocacy for the meetings industry through efforts like co-chairing Meetings Mean Business.

ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason praised Dominguez, saying, “Michael exemplifies what it means to be a changemaker in our industry. He is a visionary who brings people together, inspires meaningful action and never loses sight of our shared mission and future. It’s a true privilege to recognize his outstanding contributions with this global honor.”

Boyd Gaming Announces All-New Valley Forge Casino Resort

May 22, 2025—Boyd Gaming Corporation unveiled plans for the renovation of Valley Forge Casino Resort in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania.

Over the next 18 months, the company will conduct a redesign of Valley Forge’s Stardust Tower’s 257 guest rooms and lobby, which already began earlier this year, and the opening of the new Valley Forge Food Hall. Additional plans include a remodeled and rebranded tavern in the Stardust tower, a steakhouse and cigar longer, and a renovation of the property’s casino.

Discover Dominica Unveils Tourism Developments at 2025 Conference

May 21, 2025—Discover Dominica Authority announced major developments during a press conference during the 43rd CHTA Marketplace 2025 in Antigua.

Of the developments announced, Discover Dominica CEO Marva Williams announced the country’s cable car set to open in December. The longest detachable cable car in the world, at 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles), the project will connect Roseau Valley to Boiling Lake in 20 minutes, turning what has been a six-hour hike into a more accessible journey.

“Dominica continues to set itself apart in the Caribbean by investing in projects that expand access while preserving what makes the Nature Island so special,” said Williams. “We are redefining what it means to be a sustainable and green destination where nature is respected, where communities lead, where innovation fuels resilience, and where every traveler is transformed by the journey.”

Williams also shared news about increased air routes to the country. American Airlines will expand service from Miami in August. Additional updates from the conference include:

• A 10-megawatt geothermal plant, is set to become operational by the end of 2025, supplying up to 50% of the country’s peak electricity demand.
• The $201 million Cabrits Marina will welcome vessels up to 150 feet and feature a marine village with dining, shopping and cultural experiences.
• The destination’s international airport is 40% complete and is on track for completion in 2027. The airport will support direct flights from North America and Europe.

EIC and JMIC Join Forces to Advance Industry Sustainability Efforts, Advocacy and Economic Research

May 21, 2025—Today, the Events Industry Council (EIC) and Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) announced a new collaboration to align efforts in three critical areas: advancing sustainability within the global events sector, advocating collectively on behalf of the business events industry and producing the next global Economic Significance Study in partnership with Oxford Economics.

This collaboration unites the two industry-leading global organizations’ networks and expertise to strengthen the voice, influence and long-term resilience of the business events community worldwide. As the industry faces a period of change and uncertainty, with shifting regulatory frameworks, macroeconomic volatility and evolving geopolitical conditions, this collaboration aims to help industry stakeholders respond proactively and strategically.

The collaboration will focus on three priority areas:

Sustainability alignment: JMIC’s Net Zero Carbon Events initiative and the EIC Sustainable Event Standards will be leveraged in parallel to accelerate the industry’s transition towards more sustainable events. By aligning resources and frameworks, this collaboration will support a more coordinated and effective approach to environmental and social responsibility across all levels of the events ecosystem.

Unified Global Advocacy: In today’s complex and rapidly evolving policy environment, where travel restrictions, carbon regulations and geopolitical tensions continue to shape industry operations, the two Councils will collaborate on advocacy efforts to amplify the industry’s voice and ensure it is recognized as a vital contributor to economic development, innovation and societal progress.

2026 Economic Significance Study: Beginning in 2025, EIC and JMIC will work with Oxford Economics to produce the next global Economic Significance of Business Events Industry report, to be released in 2026. This seminal research will provide updated insights into the size, scope and strategic importance of the business events sector across international markets, offering critical data to inform public and private sector planning.

Amy Calvert, president and CEO of EIC, said, “This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to advancing the role of global business events as a driver of global economic and social progress. By working in concert, we can accelerate these efforts, advocate more effectively and provide the resources and data our stakeholders need to build capabilities and make informed decisions—especially in this era of growing complexity and unpredictability.”

James Rees, president of JMIC and executive director of Excel London, said, “This collaboration is built on the principle that unity brings strength. Using our areas of strength together we can deliver greater impact, influence policy and demonstrate the immense value of our industry on a global scale—in particular, as we adapt to the evolving global landscape.”

Both EIC and JMIC view this partnership as a significant step forward in strengthening industry collaboration, building resilience, and shaping a more sustainable and impactful future for global business events.

Cvent Names Orlando Top Meeting Destination in US

May 20, 2025—Today, industry-leading meetings, events and hospitality provider Cvent named Orlando as the No. 1 Top Meeting Destination in North America. This is the tenth time Orlando stands at the top of the globally recognized Cvent Top Meetings Destinations list. The list analyzes and ranks cities that stand out for their exceptional ability to attract group business through thoughtful event planner collaboration, distinctive experiential offerings and unique hotels and venues.

In addition, 20 Orlando area convention hotels and resorts were named as a Top Meeting Hotel in North America with 16 ranked in the Top 100, including one Top 10 placement.

St. Louis Stays Open Following EF3 Tornado

May 20, 2025—Following the EF3 tornado that hit St. Louis on Friday, Explore St. Louis confirmed that the city’s primary venues, including restaurants, hotels and convention centers, will remain open.

“St. Louis is resilient. As the entire community rallies to support those affected and mourn the loss of life, our city continues to move forward,” said Brad Dean, president and CEO of Explore St. Louis. “We stand with those impacted by the storm and know that the hardest-hit areas will take time to recover. While the recovery effort moves forward, the vast majority of the city’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem remains strong, open and eager to serve guests. By visiting St. Louis, you’re not just experiencing our vibrant culture, you’re playing a role in our recovery.”

Indiana’s Bloomington Convention Center Breaks Ground June 3

May 20, 2025—The Monroe County Capital Improvement Board announced the groundbreaking of the soon-to-be-named Bloomington Convention Center.

Along with changing the name, the project will expand the currently named Monroe Convention Center and, when the expansion is completed in 2027, will feature over 70,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, and more than 100,000 sq. ft. of space throughout the entire building.

“Indiana University’s direct connection to walkable downtown Bloomington, with hundreds of restaurants, nightlife spots, shops, attractions, and hotel rooms, creates experiences that can only be found here. These meeting groups want to have their events in Bloomington because of the atmosphere created by the combination of our university culture and community personality,” said Mike McAfee, Visit Bloomington executive director.

Choose Chicago Celebrates Visitation and Record Economic Impact in 2024

May 16, 2025—Leaders from the local tourism, hospitality, business and civic sectors came together attended Choose Chicago’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Partnership.

At the meeting, Choose Chicago announced that the city saw more than 55 millions visitors in 2024, a 6.5 year-over-year increase. During the Meeting of Partnership, the organization granted local hotelier and chair of the Choose Chicago Foundation Juan Leyva with the 2025 Tourism Champion Award and announced the extension of the National Restaurant Show in Chicago through 2032.

Mayor Brandon Johnson and new Choose Chicago President and CEO Kristen Reynolds were among those who spoke and the event.

“I am thrilled to be stepping into this role at a critical time for our industry,” Reynolds said. “We have incredible momentum coming out of a record-breaking year for the economic impact of tourism. While our industry is facing international and economic headwinds, we have much to celebrate, with so many world-class events coming to Chicago this summer—including Sueños, IPW 2025, The James Beard Foundation Awards, NASCAR Chicago Street Race, Lollapalooza and even the first American Pope hailing from Chicago. Choose Chicago is poised to leverage every opportunity to tell our story to the world.”

ASAE Announces 2025 Individual Honors for Exceptional Leadership

May 15, 2025—ASAE has announced its 2025 recipients of the Individual Honors for Exceptional Leadership. The 2025 honorees include:

Key Award: Wendy-Jo Toyama, MBA, FASAE, CAE, CEO of American Epilepsy Society

Professional Performance Award: David “DJ” Johnson, IOM, FASAE, CAE, chief membership and engagement officer at American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Academy of Leaders Award: KiKi L’Italien, executive vice president of marketing and community engagement at Big Red M

“Each year, the Individual Honors Committee is inspired by the sheer number of exceptional candidates who are nominated for ASAE’s highest individual recognitions,” said Clayonia Colbert-Dorsey, U.S. Director and Secretary of the Board, World Eye Cancer Hope, and Chair of the ASAE Individual Honors Committee.

“The depth of experience, leadership and service represented in this year’s pool of applicants made our deliberations both challenging and deeply rewarding. Collectively, this year’s recipients exemplify the spirit of service, innovation and values-driven leadership that ASAE strives to celebrate through these awards.”

MGM Grand Detroit Announces $20 Million Investment

May 15, 2025—MGM Grand Detroit announced a $20 million capital investment to make the experience better for its guests.

Renovations include updates to its 400 guest rooms and 65 suites, such as new furniture, paint, carpet, couches and mattresses; Immerse Spa is updating its gym with new equipment and flooring and pool space will feature new cabanas; the MGM Rewards desk will have a standalone space; and casino upgrades that will include new carpeting.

This follows the property’s recent $15 million transformation in 2024, its 25th anniversary.

“MGM Resorts and our entire team at MGM Grand Detroit are deeply committed to enhancing the guest experience throughout all aspects of the property in an effort to drive consistent and continued visitation to the region,” said Matt Buckley, president and chief operational officer of MGM Resorts Midwest Group. “We’re proud to have played a key role in Detroit’s emergence as a premier entertainment and hospitality destination, and this next phase of investment reflects our unwavering commitment to pushing that momentum even further.”

Orlando Welcomed 75.3 Million Visitors in 2024

May 9, 2025—Visit Orlando, announced that the destination saw 75,333,800 visitors in 2024, a 1.8% increase in 2023.

Domestic visitation grew by 1.4% in 2024, a total of 68,840,300 visitors, driven by day visits and overnight non-hotel stays; international visitation grew by 5.9% from the previous year, a total of 6.5 million visitors. The group meetings segment in particular increased by 3.9% to 5.6 million visitors.

“The group meeting’s growth exemplifies why Orlando is the top meetings destination in the country,” said Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. “While multiple citywide meetings experienced record-breaking attendance in 2025, our destination continues to invest in the future with the Grand Concourse Expansion at Orange County Convention Center breaking ground later this year.”

Internationally, Canada was the top market to visit Orlando, with 1.29 visitors, a 2.7% increase from 2023 and a new record for the second year in a row.

Top 5 International Markets in 2024:

• Canada: 1,290,300 (up 2.7%)
• U.K.: 907,900 (up 3.5%)
• Brazil: 697,200 (up 0.2%)
• Mexico: 438,000 (up 1.5%)
• Colombia: 343,000 (up 13.6%)

Visit Baton Rouge Launches New Brand and Ad Campaign

May 7, 2025—Visit Baton Rouge recently unveiled its new branding and advertising campaign highlighting the city’s culinary, cultural and welcoming qualities.

The messaging, “Our Place, Your Pace,” was created to highlight the experiences Baton Rouge offers. According to a press release by the DMO, “The brand’s new logo mark is inspired by the quatrefoil shape that appears in architecture and design throughout the capital city.”

“We’re thrilled to unveil a bold new brand that reflects the vibrant spirit and story of Baton Rouge,” said Laura Cating, Visit Baton Rouge’s senior vice president of marketing and communications. “With National Travel and Tourism Week highlighting the power of travel, it’s the perfect moment to showcase how tourism drives our local economy—bringing in $1.7 billion in visitor spending in 2024—and invites guests to experience our city’s rich culture and unforgettable charm.”

Advertising activations will debut this week in Baton Rouge at several events, including Hot Art Cool Nights on May 9 and Night Market BTR on May 10.

AHLA Foundation’s ForWard Conference to Focus on Advancing Women

May 2, 2025—On May 6-7, American Hotel & Lodging Association Foundation’s ForWard Conference will see thousands of hospitality professionals at Hyatt Regency Atlanta. The two-day conference’s theme this year is “power” and will feature industry executives and discussions focused on women progressing in hospitality leadership.

Featured speakers include Rosanna Maietta, president and CEO for AHLA; Jennifer Hyman, CEO and co-founder of Rent The Runway; and Lamiaa Laurene Daif, Worldwide Strategy Leader at Apple. The event’s sessions will include how to best utilize AI, contract negotiation best practices, guest expectations, hidden hospitality careers

Marriott Reaches 15 Million Volunteer Hours Goal One Year Early

April 30, 2025—Marriott International announced that its associates completed 15.6 million volunteer hours in their local communities from 2016 through the end of 2024.

This progress is in line with the company’s sustainability and social impact platform, Serve 360: Doing Good in Every Direction, established in 2017.  Contributions from the company were fulfilled through partnerships with nonprofits, volunteer service and fundraising events.

“Since our founding nearly 100 years ago, Marriott has been committed to serving our world. I am deeply grateful to our associates, business councils, and owners for the thoughtful and creative ways they have shown up for their communities and each other, “said Anthony Capuano, president and CEO, Marriott International.” Their dedication to volunteerism and service has had a profound impact on the communities where we live and work. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we remain focused on continuing this momentum and being a force for good in the world.”

MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy Introduces New Benefits for Meeting Planners and Attendees

April 30, 2025—MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, the brand created by MGM Resorts International and Marriott International, today announces two additional Marriott Bonvoy earning opportunities to be offered at the brand’s destinations. Marriott Bonvoy Events offers rewards-eligible meeting and event planners who book new contracted group business at the resorts the opportunity to earn Marriott Bonvoy points. Additionally, individual Marriott Bonvoy members who stay and pay independently as part of a qualifying event will be eligible to earn loyalty benefits. Both opportunities pave the way for event planners and attendees to earn Marriott Bonvoy points and Elite Night Credits.

Marriott Bonvoy Events:

• Earn While You Plan. Meeting and event planners who book new contracted business through an MGM Resorts group sales channel are eligible to earn Marriott Bonvoy points at participating MGM Collection destinations throughout Las Vegas and domestically. Marriott Bonvoy members can earn two points per $1 USD on qualifying charges such as master-billed guest rooms and catering. Members can earn 1 Elite Night Credit for every 20 room nights actualized, up to 20 Elite Night Credits per event.
• Catering Counts. Points are not limited to large conventions or room blocks. Catering-only gatherings also qualify for Marriott Bonvoy points, giving planners added value for meetings, receptions or gatherings of any size.

Individual Group Attendee Earning:

• Stay With Perks. Marriott Bonvoy members who stay and pay independently as part of a qualifying meeting or event can earn 10 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 USD on qualifying charges including room rate, mini-bar and in-room dining. Members also will receive Elite Night Credits and enjoy tier-based benefits aligned with their Marriott Bonvoy status at MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy destinations.
• Earn More Rewards. Individual attendees who are also MGM Rewards members can earn MGM Rewards Points and Tier Credits on eligible spending including dining, spa and more, in addition to their Marriott Bonvoy benefits.

Visit the Marriott Bonvoy Events site for full details.

Reno Tahoe Indoor Track Season Wraps with Major Economic Boost

April 29, 2025—Reno Tahoe is celebrating the successful debut of Nevada’s first indoor track season at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, where eight meets brought over 5,000 athletes and more than 12,000 room nights to the region. The Reno Tahoe Indoor Track generated $133,000 in direct revenue and over $6 million in economic impact, according to the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority (RSCVA).

“The success of Reno Tahoe’s inaugural indoor track season exceeded all our expectations,” said Mike Larragueta, RSCVA president and CEO. “As we continue to establish the destination as a leader in sports tourism, we welcome more opportunities to bring world-class competition to Reno Tahoe.”

Looking ahead, the 2026 season will expand to 12 meets, including six in partnership with the University of Nevada and four with the USATF Pacific Association. The season will culminate in two major collegiate events: the NCAA Mountain West Conference Championships and the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation Championships.

“Our first season has been a huge success. The Reno Tahoe Indoor Track has placed collegiate track and field on the map,” said University of Nevada Women’s Track & Field head coach Shantel Twiggs. “Everyone is talking about how fast it is—especially the warmup area, which is the biggest draw.

Marriott International to Acquire the citizenM Brand

April 28, 2025—Today, Marriott International announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire the lifestyle brand citizenM, a unique and innovative offering in the select-service segment. The transaction is expected to accelerate Marriott’s global expansion of its select-service and lifestyle lodging offerings, as the company continues to focus on expanding its portfolio to provide even more exciting options for guests and Marriott Bonvoy members around the world.

The citizenM global portfolio currently consists of 36 open hotels across more than 20 cities throughout the U.S., Europe and Asia Pacific, and its current pipeline includes three under-construction hotels totaling over 600 rooms that are anticipated to open by mid-2026, with the prospect of significant additional growth across Marriott’s global regions over the next decade. The citizenM brand, founded in 2008, is known for its genuine service, tech-savvy in-hotel experience, efficient use of space and focus on art and design.

Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International, says, “We are thrilled to add citizenM as a unique, differentiated offering to our select-service brand portfolio as we continue to strengthen Marriott’s foothold in this valuable market segment around the world. Marriott has a proven track record of growing acquired brands significantly by leveraging our global development ecosystem, the benefits of our industry-leading affiliation cost structure, and the power of our award-winning Marriott Bonvoy loyalty platform.”

Rattan Chadha, founder and chairman of citizenM, says, “We are very excited about our agreement with Marriott and look forward to this pivotal next step for our future growth. I envisage this relationship will greatly enhance citizenM’s global reach and brand impact. Marriott as an organization shares our values and culture, and I am confident in their deep commitment in continuing our brand’s DNA into the future.”

At the closing of the transaction, Marriott will pay $355 million to acquire the brand and related intellectual property, and following closing, the citizenM portfolio will become part of Marriott’s system. Closing is subject to various customary conditions, including U.S. regulatory approval. Assuming closing of the transaction in 2025, Marriott now expects full year 2025 net rooms growth to approach five percent.

Brand Revolution Acquires Brilliant, Expanding Social Media Expertise

April 28, 2025—Brand Revolution, a global creative marketing agency, has acquired Brilliant, a social-first creative agency based in London, to strengthen its digital and social media offerings.

“For us, this acquisition is about expanding our House of Experts,” said Alisa Walsh Haynes, CEO of Brand Revolution. “Brilliant’s approach to social strategy aligns seamlessly with our mission to create bold, emotionally resonant campaigns that connect brands with audiences in a meaningful way.”

Brilliant, founded more than a decade ago, has developed campaigns for brands like Fox’s Biscuits, Thorntons, SPAM and SKIPPY Peanut Butter. Known for crafting conversation-driving content and building collaborative partnerships, the agency brings a fresh, insights-led approach to Brand Revolution’s portfolio.

“This marks a significant step forward for Brilliant,” said Mike Davis, managing director of Brilliant. “Brand Revolution shares our values and creative standards, making it a strong cultural fit. Their global scale means greater strategic breadth for our clients and broader opportunities for our team.”

With the acquisition, Brilliant’s social expertise will join Brand Revolution’s offerings in strategy, design, video, events and merchandise.

ASAE Praises Executive Order to Modernize Workforce Programs

April 24, 2025—President Trump’s Executive Order to modernize American workforce development programs to prepare U.S. citizens for high-paying skilled jobs has been applauded by ASAE.

The order directs the Secretaries of Labor, Education and Commerce to review all federal workforce programs to modernize and realign to address talent needs in emerging industries.

As partners in this effort, ASAE and the Professional Certification Coalition have collaborated to lead the Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition, which includes 900-plus organizations, representing more than 50 industries. The Coalition works to support modernizing workforce development by supporting policies that aid individuals to gain industry-related credentials.

One such example is the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act, which would expand qualified expenses under 529 education savings plans to include credentialing such as licenses and nongovernmental certifications, as well as post-secondary training.

“This Executive Order recognizes that building a modern workforce requires modern tools,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “Associations are the backbone of skills-based training across countless industries, and ASAE, along with the Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition, is ready to collaborate with federal agencies to ensure the success of this initiative. By aligning policy with practical training needs—including expanding access to credentialing through 529 plans—we can build a stronger, more competitive American workforce.”

Cvent Acquires Prismm, Spatial Event Design Tech Provider

April 24, 2025—Today, meetings, event and hospitality technology provider Cvent announced that it has acquired Prismm, a leader in spatial event design technology. Over 5,500 event venues, hotels, planners and vendors rely on Prismm to connect and collaborate within virtual environments to create stunning event spaces and experiences. The acquisition of Prismm reinforces Cvent’s commitment to setting the industry standard for immersive 3D event diagramming technology that benefits both event and hospitality professionals.

“Over the last 12 years, we have worked relentlessly to empower our customers to connect, collaborate, and transact across immersive virtual environments, and we’re proud to announce this next chapter as part of Cvent,” said Yaron Lipshitz, CEO of Prismm. “Combining our 3D design capabilities with Cvent’s extensive network and industry expertise will empower event professionals and hoteliers to create unforgettable experiences and drive significant business growth.”

Jim Abramson, Cvent Vice President of Product Management, said, “Given our expansive global network of more than 145,000 planners and nearly 340,000 hotels and venues across our Cvent ecosystem, we understand what time-strapped event professionals and resource-constrained hoteliers need to deliver bigger and better events. Collaborative, easy-to-use virtual event design technology has become an expectation among many event organizers, and our acquisition of Prismm illustrates that we’re continuing to invest to meet this demand, while helping hotels and venues simplify their event planning processes and maximize group business revenue.”

Benefits of immersive, interactive event design technology include:

• For Hoteliers and Venue Operators

• • Streamlined Event Creation: Online diagramming tools that are accessible to all key stakeholders reduce planning time and increase event design accuracy.
  • Elevated Sales and Marketing: Dynamic 3D virtual tours allow prospects to explore every aspect of a property and meeting space from anywhere.
  • Improved Customization and Competitive Differentiation: Offering cutting-edge event design technology can set hoteliers apart from their competitors, while personalized virtual “walkthroughs” with branded elements help bring a prospect’s vision to life and leave a lasting impression.

• For Event Professionals

• • Simplified Sourcing: When time and budgets are constrained, online diagramming tools accelerate and optimize the venue sourcing process via virtual site visits and accurate space visualization. This helps planners quickly identify which venues are best suited for their needs based on layout, capacity, and overall fit.
  • Enhanced Planning: Precision floor plans and templates enhance the ability to visualize layouts, seating arrangements, and decor, ensuring precise planning and execution. Planners can easily identify potential issues and adjust before the event, leading to a smoother and more successful experience.

• For Both Hospitality and Event Professionals:

• • Improved Collaboration: Cloud-based diagramming enables real time collaboration with all stakeholders and decision-makers.
  • Seamless Communication: With advanced spatial design tools, planners can share detailed virtual representations of event spaces with clients, vendors, and stakeholders. This fosters better communication and simplifies decision making.

Planners Welcome Direct London-Ottawa Flights

April 23, 2025—Ottawa Tourism reports enthusiastic interest from association and corporate event planners across Europe to seasonal resumption of direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) and the Canadian capital.

The service, offered on Air Canada March 31 to late October, allows one-stop access from more than 30 cities across Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa.

“We’ve already seen a surge in inquiries and positive feedback from our partners and event organisers since the first flight touched down,” said Lesley Pincombe, vice president for business and major events at Ottawa Tourism. “Having London Heathrow back on the schedule gives planners even more confidence and convenience when bringing international events to Ottawa—and we’re ready to welcome them.”

Air Canada offers four weekly nonstop flights, with a potential move to year-round service as the airline introduces new Airbus aircraft.

Michelin Guide Honors 59 Orlando Restaurants in 2025, Including 11 New Additions

April 21, 2025—The 2025 MICHELIN Guide Florida has been revealed with MICHELIN inspectors adding 11 new Orlando restaurants to the lineup, raising the destination’s total to 59 establishments including nine starred venues, 15 Bib Gourmands and 35 Recommended.

Destinations International Foundation Issues 2024 Annual Reports

April 21, 2025—Destinations International (DI), the world’s largest resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus, and tourism boards, reports strong growth for itself and its sister foundation in 2024.

DI’s annual report highlights include membership growth to 755 organizations across 32 countries and territories, including 91 new and re-engaged members; seven new business partners, bringing that total to 71; record attendance of nearly 2,000 destination professionals at its 2024 annual convention in Tampa, Florida; successful launch of a new membership structure in Europe that provides “more tailored programming, localized governance and greater value for European destination organizations”; and successful completion by more than 250 professionals of  DI’s Certified Destination Management Executive and Professional in Destination Management certification programs.

Concurrently, the annual report by the DI Foundation reported a 28% increase in fund-raising over the previous year, totaling a record-setting $1.26 million to fund research, education and workforce development for its membership. It also noted support of several key initiatives, such as the Destination Effect Awareness Campaign to help destination organizations communicate their broader value to residents and policymakers and a “Destination Promotion: A Catalyst for Community Vitality” Report, which makes the case for destination promotion as a strategic function for community growth and identity.

“Our annual reports reflect more than organizational progress, they capture a growing international movement of destination leaders who are helping their communities thrive through travel and tourism,” said Don Welsh, DI president & CEO.

Greater Palm Springs Achieves Certified Autism Destination™ Designation

April 21, 2025—Visit Greater Palm Springs, in partnership with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), is proud to announce that Greater Palm Springs has officially achieved the Certified Autism Destination™ (CAD) designation. This milestone underscores the region’s commitment to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive travelers and their families. Greater Palm Springs is the first destination in Southern California, and only the fifth worldwide, to achieve this prestigious recognition.

The CAD designation is awarded to destinations where a representative selection of hotels, attractions, and entertainment venues have completed specialized training and certification to better serve autistic visitors. As part of this initiative, numerous Greater Palm Springs organizations have achieved Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) status. Scott White, President & CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springs, says, “Creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment is at the heart of our destination’s values. This designation reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that all visitors, regardless of their unique needs, can enjoy the beauty, adventure, and relaxation that Greater Palm Springs offers.” 

Caesars Entertainment Donates to the 200 Club of Atlantic and Cape May Counties

April 17, 2025—Caesars Entertainment’s Atlantic City resorts, including Caesars, Tropicana and Harrah’s Resort, recently donated $10,000 to the 200 Club of Atlantic and Cape May Counties on behalf of the Caesars Foundation.

The donation was presented during the 39th Annual Atlantic/Cape Memorial Brunch, hosted by Tropicana Atlantic City on April 6, which honored police and fire rescue personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty. The funds will support the 200 Club’s mission of providing financial assistance to families of fallen first responders.

“We are honored to support the 200 Club in providing financial assistance for families who experience unspeakable loss,” said Gregg Klein, senior vice president and general manager at Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City and president of the 200 Club. Melissa Wilson, vice president of the 200 Club, added that the donation will help maintain the organization’s scholarship program and ensure financial readiness for future emergencies.

Encore Earns Spot on 2025 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® List

April 17, 2025—Exciting news from Encore! Encore has been named to the 2025 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list, in collaboration with Great Place To Work®. Encore’s recognition highlights their commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace culture. It is also the only company in events to receive this prestigious honor.

Encore joins leading hotel partners like Hilton, Marriott, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Hyatt Hotels Corporation on this year’s list. This  announcement follows Encore’s third consecutive Great Place To Work® certification.

Encore’s innovative HR programs are behind this recognition, which includes:

• Seasonal Leave of Absence Program: Interim leave during slower seasons. It also includes continued insurance, vacation accrual and a $500 return bonus.

• Overtime Savings Program: Team member can save overtime earnings for the off-season with an annual company match, promoting financial wellness.

Bizzabo Launches AI-Enhanced Networking Solution

April 16, 2025—Bizzabo has launched Bizzabo Networking to meet the growing demand for in-person events from attendees.

Working in tandem with Bizzabo’s Event Experience OS, this new networking suite rids the need for attendees to use multiple platforms and networking tools.

“Event organizers today face a fundamental shift in what drives attendance. Content alone no longer fills seats—people are coming to build relationships,” said Alon Alroy, co-founder and chief marketing officer at Bizzabo. “Our integrated networking suite directly addresses this by making it easier for organizers to deliver the connections attendees crave while maintaining operational efficiency. When networking becomes frictionless, everyone wins: attendees make meaningful connections, sponsors meet qualified prospects, and organizers see higher satisfaction scores and return rates.”

Bizzabo Networking launch includes features like AI-enhanced matchmaking, web and mobile scheduling, customizable location settings and time-blocking abilities so attendees to miss out on important sessions.

Visit California Strengthens Canadian Connection

April 15, 2025—Visit California has teamed up with Expedia to launch a Canada-exclusive program, which will offer savings of up to 25 percent on hotels, activities and attractions.

The option for partners to join ends April 27, and the program will launch after. Visit expediapartnercentral.com. This initiative builds on Visit California’s $5.2 million annual marketing investment highlighting California as an ideal place to travel from Canada amid economic tension.

Visit California will take a broader look at travel during its virtual “Travel in the Time of Tariffs Town Hall” on April 23 at 1:30 p.m. PST. You can register here.

Greater Ontario California Celebrates National Volunteer Week

April 15, 2025—National Volunteer Week is April 20-26 and Greater Ontario, California (GOCAL), invites its community to give back.

“Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways to connect with your community,” said Michael Krouse, president and CEO of GOCAL. “It fosters a sense of belonging, opens doors to new opportunities, and plays a vital role in ensuring visitors experience the best of what our region has to offer.”

Those interested in volunteering in one of Greater Ontario’s Signature Events can sign up at gocalevents.org.

NCBMP Partners with EIC to Elevate Annual Conference

April 11, 2025—The National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) announced their partnership with the Events Industry Council (EIC) for the Annual Conference taking place on November 19-22 in Portland, Oregon.

The partnership will allow the event to deliver exclusive Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) content and experiences. Attendees will be able to take part in educational sessions designed around the conference’s pillars of: Empower, Innovate and Act.

“This collaboration ensures our attendees receive world-class, relevant education that fuels professional growth,” said NCBMP CEO Jason Dunn, Sr. “Together with EIC, we’re setting the stage for transformation.”

The conference will give attendees and CMPs important tools to create inclusive and sustainable events.

M&IW Will Host Live Discussion on Event Sustainability Featuring Leaders from Copia and PURPOSE

April 10, 2025—Ahead of Earth Day on April 22, 2025, Meetings & Incentives Worldwide (M&IW) has announced that it will hold a free, live discussion around the foundational truths of sustainable event planning, myths and challenges and the future of event sustainability and how the industry can maintain forward momentum. Event Sustainability: Facts, Fiction, & Future will take place on May 7, 2025, at 11 a.m. CT.

The discussion will be led by an experienced panel of leaders from Copia, a technology-enabled surplus redistribution service, and PURPOSE, a consulting and education organization for event professionals and organizations. The panel will include Donna Collins, a sustainability champion with M&IW; Molly Finnegan, the founder of the PURPOSE Sustainability Strategy + Group Travel Emissions calculator, PURPOSE Net Zero; and Paige Lowe, vice president of customer success at Copia.

Throughout the discussion, the panel will address important insights and actionable recommendations to help everyone involved in the events world to make a positive difference in order to leave attendees with a fresh outlook and new ideas about sustainable event planning and strategy. All knowledge levels are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to come prepared with their questions, ideas and best practices.

Registration is free, and now open. Interested attendees can register here.

Association Forum Mourns the Loss of Industry Leader and Mentor Loretta DeLuca

April 8, 2025 – Association Forum has announced the passing of Loretta DeLuca, FASAE, a former board member, the 2024 John C. Thiel Distinguished Service Award recipient and a devoted leader in the association community.

DeLuca was the Founder & CEO of DelCor Technology Solutions and a steadfast advocate for associations and professionals across the industry. Her recent contributions included authoring a career reflection for the Winter 2025 issue of FORUM Magazine and appearing in a video that captured her passion and leadership.

“Loretta was a beacon of light and strength in our community. She inspired and encouraged people across generations, shaping and uplifting leaders at every stage. Her passion for service and commitment to excellence set a standard for us all. While she will be deeply missed, her legacy will continue to guide and inspire us,” said Michelle Mills Clement, FASAE, CAE, RCE, Chair of Association Forum.

Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO of Association Forum, added, “Loretta’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication and heartfelt mentorship. Her impact on the Association Forum and the broader community will be felt for generations. She truly embodied the spirit of service and leadership.”

Kristen Reynolds Named President and CEO of Choose Chicago

April 7, 2025—Kristen Reynolds has been named president and CEO of Choose Chicago, effective May 5. She joins the organization after nearly a decade leading Discover Long Island, where she drove major growth in tourism revenue and strengthened regional economic development. A Certified Destination Management Executive with 27 years of experience, Reynolds brings deep expertise in destination marketing and tourism advocacy. She steps into the role as Chicago rides record-breaking momentum, including historic hotel revenue and its eighth consecutive “Best Big City in the U.S.” title from Condé Nast Traveler.

“Kristen Reynolds is a proven leader in the tourism industry and we welcome her to Chicago,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said. “With major global events on the horizon and our city continuing to break tourism records, Kristen’s leadership will be instrumental in strengthening Chicago’s position as a top destination for visitors, conventions and business investment.”

Dubai World Trade Centre Sees 2.65 Million Attendees in 2024

March 28, 2025—Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has unveiled its 2024 visitation numbers, which shows that the convention center welcomed 2.65 millions visitors in 2024, a 7% increase compared to 2023. DWTC’s calendar saw 378 MICE, business and consumer events, including 20 flagship exhibitions and events, and 14 international association meetings, highlighting a 26% year-on-year growth.

“Our 2024 achievements reflect growth—not just in numbers, but in strengthening Dubai’s global market position,” says H.E. Helal Saeed Almarri, director general of Dubai World Trade Centre Authority. The remarkable increase in international participation underscores growing confidence in Dubai’s dynamic business ecosystem and DWTC’s role in fostering meaningful commercial connections.

“Our continued success in attracting new-to-market events across diverse sectors reaffirms Dubai’s unique appeal as a global hub where innovation meets opportunity. This momentum fuels our confidence as we drive forward with our ambitious venue expansion strategy to meet increasing global demand.”

PCMA and BEIA Partner to Strengthen APAC Business Events Sector

March 26, 2025—PCMA and Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) have signed a two-year strategic alliance aimed at strengthening the business events landscape across the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership will focus on cross-promotion of educational events, shared research initiatives and enhanced access to professional development resources.

As part of the agreement, BEIA members will gain access to PCMA’s global education content, including collaborative sessions at both PCMA APAC and BEIA conferences, complimentary webinars and involvement in PCMA’s Convening Leaders event. The organizations also plan to launch a PCMA x BEIA Circle—an exclusive micro-community for New Zealand-based corporate event organizers to share insights and experiences.

“PCMA remains focused and committed to the advancement of the global business events industry, and the professional development and connectivity of those throughout the APAC community,” said Florence Chua, PCMA managing director, APAC. “This important alliance provides a platform for collective growth—to deliver the knowledge, resources and networks essential for growth and collaboration in the region.”

PCMA is also slated to participate in MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s largest business events trade show, which will feature a new education component.

AIME 2025 Drives $400 Million in Business for Asia Pacific Events Industry

March 26, 2025—The 2025 Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has delivered a record-breaking $400 million AUD (over $250 million USD) in projected business transactions, marking a 21% increase from the previous year and solidifying its role as a powerhouse in the global events industry.

Held Feb. 10-12 at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, AIME 2025 welcomed more than 675 exhibitors, 640 hosted buyers and 4,500 attendees from around the world. The event has officially become the largest in AIME’s history—and the most successful event ever staged by Talk2 Media & Events, which has now been reappointed to manage AIME through 2028.

“AIME 2025 surpassed all expectations, and the extension of our contract with MCB is a testament to our ability to deliver exceptional events,” said Matt Pearce, CEO of Talk2 Media & Events. “Our team is committed to building on the momentum of AIME 2025, continuing to innovate, and elevating the event experience.”

Demand for AIME 2026, set for Feb. 9-11 next year, is already strong as the event continues to lead the Asia Pacific business events calendar.

Read More: From the Experts: Key Takeaways from AIME 2025

Lotte Hotel Seattle Partners with Seattle Sounders FC

March 24, 2025—Lotte Hotel Seattle, offering world-class hospitality, innovative design and panoramic views of the Seattle skyline with a location right in downtown Seattle and nearby Lumen Field, the home field of the American professional soccer club Seattle Sounders, debuts an exciting program to offer an unforgettable game day experience to guests. The hotel, the team’s official preferred hotel partner, announces a partnership with Seattle Sounders FC to debut the new Sounders FC Match Day Getaway package. The exclusive offer, available for all home games, invites guests to enjoy outstanding luxury, comfort and convenience while cheering on their team.

The Sounders FC Match Day Getaway package includes:

Destinations International Announces 2025 “30 Under 30”

March 24, 2025—Destinations International (DI) today announced its “30 Under 30 Class of 2025.” Funded by the Destinations International Foundation, the 30 Under 30 program recognizes a group of 30 individuals under the age of 30 for their exceptional work as destination professionals through a competitive process each year. Honorees gain access to a year-long industry education and networking opportunity. The 30 Under 30 program is supported by founding program partner SearchWide Global and sponsored by Fired Up! Culture and IMEX. USAE’s “Anne Daly Heller USAE 30 Under 30 Scholars Fund” provides exceptional continuing educational opportunities for each year’s 30 Under 30 class.

“The Destinations International Foundation believes it is essential to support and empower emerging leaders in our industry,” said Amir Eylon, president and CEO of Longwoods International and chair of the Destinations International Foundation. “We are thrilled to see the 30 Under 30 program enter its 15th year, and we are thankful to our foundation investors for making impactful programs like these possible. We look forward to engaging with this impressive group through professional development, educational opportunities and networking with industry peers and leaders.”

Destinations International also recognizes a cohort of young professionals from its partners, who have the opportunity to join virtual leadership development and networking sessions alongside the 30 Under 30 class throughout the year.

2025 marks the 30 Under 30 Program’s 15th year. This year’s honorees represent 30 unique destinations across four countries and territories and were selected from a competitive group of 91 applicants.

The 30 Under 30 Class of 2025 honorees are:

• Aimy Thai, Marketing Manager, Destination Toronto
• Allie May, Senior Coordinator, Brand USA
• Ansley Connor, Content and Social Media Manager, Visit Savannah
• Aubrey Caldwell, Sports Event Coordinator, Visit Lake Charles
• Benjamin Landis, Marketing Manager, Discover Santa Clara
• Cameron Molloy, Communications Specialist, Visit Mesa
• Charlotte Moody, Director of Sales, Visit Macon
• Elise Cameron, Creative Services Manager, Visit Aurora
• Erin Sinclair, Travel Media Manager, Destination Greater Victoria
• Gabe Wasylko, Senior Social Media Manager, Destination Cleveland
• Jen Wingate, CMP, Senior National Sales Manager, Visit Baltimore
• Katlyn Southern, Marketing and Communications Manager, Cartersville Museum City
• Kiira Grant, Tourism Standards and Training Specialist – Learning & Development Professional, Bermuda Tourism Authority
• Lauren Brown, Marketing & Social Media Specialist, Visit Austin
• Lea Nelson, Brand and Content Coordinator, Visit Quad Cities
• Lydia Williams, Industry Communications Manager, VISIT FLORIDA
• Mallori Johnson, Director of Destination Services, Visit Corpus Christi
• Mary Peyton Carpenter, Sr. Director of Marketing, Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp
• Melissa Bernal, Destination Experience Coordinator, Visit Greater Palm Springs
• Nick Price, Senior Manager, Sports & Events, Destination DC
• Nohemi Reynoso, Communications Manager, Pick Ellijay/Gilmer Chamber
• Rachel Nogalski, Director of Experience & Events, Tulsa Regional Tourism
• Raelyn Dessart, Senior Sales & Events Supervisor, Visit Central Florida Sports
• Rebekah Courtney, National Sales Manager, Louisville Tourism
• Rylee Govoreau, Destination Services Manager, ATL Airport District CVB
• Shauna Fitzgerald, Association Conferences Support, Fáilte Ireland
• Siri Emereje, Marketing Manager, Discover DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Taylor Melangton, Event & Communications Manager, Visit Indy
• Tyler Duplantis, Destination Sales Manager, Explore Houma
• Valeria Ayala, Media Relations Coordinator, Discover Puerto Rico

The 2025 Young Professionals Leadership Development program cohort includes:

• August Erickson, Development Manager, Miles Partnership
• Geena Bevenour, Marketing Manager, Tourism Economics
• Mackenzie Shields, Digital Media Specialist, JNS Next
• Samantha Gerhart, Associate Director, Madden Media

The Jay Hotel San Francisco Partners with By the Namesake to Create Custom Leather Experience During SF Fashion Week

March 20, 2025—The Jay, Autograph Collection in San Francisco has partnered with custom leather maker By The Namesake for a three-day shopping experience following San Francisco Fashion Week, taking place March 19-25.

On April 10-12, hotel guests and visitors can book private appointments and visit the By The Namesake’s pop-up shop; these private appointments will involve creating a tailored leather jacket. The invite-only launch event on April 10 will feature a live DJ, specialty cocktails, light F&B and a giveaway by the leather brand.

“This partnership perfectly embodies The Jay’s commitment to connecting our guests with exceptional artistic experiences that celebrate craftsmanship and personal expression,” says Michael Musarra, general manager of The Jay. “By The Namesake shares our appreciation for quality, individuality, and the art of creating something truly special.”

The Jay will offer two partnered hotel packages:

Package 1: Stay in Style

• Luxury suite for ultimate comfort and sophistication
• 2 fashion-inspired cocktails at The Third Floor, valued at $25 each
• By The Namesake try-on kit for a custom leather design experience
• $2,000 credit toward your personalized By The Namesake leather creation
• Private in-person design appointment for guests attending the April 10-12 pop-up
• Virtual consultation for guests booking outside the pop-up event dates
• Complimentary late check-out (subject to availability)
• Book & stay dates: available from now through October

Package 2: Leather & Luxury

• Luxury suite for a chic and comfortable getaway
• 2 fashion-inspired cocktails at The Third Floor, valued at $25 each
• By The Namesake leather passport holder, valued at $80
• Complimentary late check-out (subject to availability)
• Book and stay dates: available from now through October

Terramar DMC Appoints Senior Director of US Operations

March 17, 2025—Terramar, a DMC Network Company, with operations in three countries and 15 destinations, appoints Geraldine Gracidas to the role of senior director of U.S. operations. The addition of this role overseeing the company’s U.S. operations signifies the company’s increased effort to maintain its position as a top-ranked DMC for service.

Managing director Matt Cuevas says of Gracidas’s appointment, “Having spent over a decade with Terramar in our flagship destination of Los Cabos, and then joining our US team in 2022 to help unify our standards across all locations, we knew we already had the perfect person on our roster. Geraldine’s extensive knowledge, experience, and unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled service are synonymous with the Terramar DMC brand and will further enhance our dedication to client excellence.”

Lisa DeLeon, Terramar’s vice president of global sales, adds, “There’s no one better suited to fill this crucial role than Geraldine. She brings not only a wealth of experience and knowledge, but also a strong leadership presence within the team. As our brand continues to evolve and solidify its position as a leader in the DMC industry, Geraldine’s contributions will be vital for our ongoing growth and success.”

Jalisco to Host First-Ever Edition of ITB Americas

March 14, 2025—Mexico’s Jalisco has been announced as the host for the first-ever ITB Americas, the Latin American edition of the prestigious Internationale Tourismus-Börse (ITB) tourism fair.

The event is set to take place at Expo Guadalajara from November 10-12, 2026, and continue for five years, the event is expected to generate over $11.9 million in tourism revenue and attract more than 5,000 attendees from 35 countries.

“We always say that Jalisco is Mexico, because Jalisco is everything that outside of Mexico is recognized with great pride in our country,” says Secretary of Tourism of Jalisco, Michelle Friedman Hirsch,  “We expect 80 percent [of attendees] from the Americas but also 20 percent from other continents, (such as) media, buyers and business partners.”

ICCA and AIME Partner to Boost APAC Business Events

March 14, 2025—The International Congress and Conference Association (ICCA) has announced a new partnership with the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) to drive growth and opportunities for business events across Australia, New Zealand and Asia.

The agreement, signed during AIME 2025 in Melbourne, positions AIME as a key advocacy partner, amplifying the industry’s global voice and supporting initiatives like ICCASkills, business exchange workshops and leadership development.

ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath emphasized the significance of the collaboration, highlighting APAC’s rapid industry growth. Matt Pearce, director of Talk2 Media & Events, said the partnership will further strengthen the region’s business events sector:

“We look forward to driving business events growth and prosperity in APAC with ongoing personal and professional development opportunities through AIME and ICCA in the coming years as AIME cements its position as the leading business events exhibition and learning platform,” said Pearce.

The partnership also included joint efforts with the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), featuring an Emerging Leaders Challenge and an AIME Leaders Forum, both focused on shaping the future of business events.

AIME 2026 is set for February 9–11 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, with expanded programming, including an ICCA Business Exchange and a scholarship for emerging talent.

U.S. Travel Welcomes White House Initial Step for FIFA World Cup 26

March 11, 2025—In February, U.S. Travel Association called for the federal government to take four steps it deemed essential for the United States to properly respond to the millions of overseas visitors potentially expected for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, FIFA World Cup 2026 and 2028 Summer Olympics.

The first step outlined by the organization, which represents the $1.3 trillion travel industry, was the establishment of a task force led by a White House official “to bring sustained leadership and focus across the federal government to take advantage of global events coming our way over the next four years,” in the words of a U.S. Travel press release.

President Trump has announced he would establish and chair such a task force.

“The creation of this task force was a top priority for U.S. Travel and will ensure the U.S. is fully prepared to host the world’s largest sporting event,” said U.S. Travel President and CEO Geoff Freeman. “We look forward to the positive impact this will have on both the travel industry and the nation as a whole.”

The Trump administration has not responded to the other three proposed steps. They are:

1) Delivering on President Trump’s promise to process visas more efficiently and securely, including establishing a National Vetting Service to process all visitor visas in 30 days or less.

2) Creating the world’s “most advanced and secure airport screening process” by investing in security technology, so that within five years all travelers can pack larger liquids in carry-ons, keep electronics and IDs in their bags, and keep their shoes, jackets and belts on.

3) Upgrading staffing at airport customs, leveraging biometrics and advanced vetting to end long customs wait times for Americans returning home from abroad and strengthening protection against immigration overstays by completing biometric air exit within two years.

HumanX AI Conference Coming to San Francisco

March 11, 2025—Mayor Daniel Lurie of San Francisco has announced that the second edition of HumanX, a conference for AI industry leaders and innovators, will be held in San Francisco on April 7-9th, 2026.

“San Francisco has always been at the forefront of innovation, and today, AI is truly driving the future. Our city is cementing itself once again as a global hub for technology, and that’s why I am thrilled to announce that HumanX 2026 will be held at the Moscone Center in San Francisco,” says Mayor Lurie. “My administration is committed to safe and clean streets for residents and visitors alike and making sure the world knows San Francisco is open for business.”

Other major conferences set to take place in San Francisco include DreamForce, the Winter FancyFaire and Microsoft Ignite. The 32 events scheduled at Moscone Center in 2025 are estimated to generate about $600 million in direct spending in the local economy.

Freeman Acquires Tag Digital

March 11, 2025—Freeman, a global leader in events, has announced that it has acquired Tag Digital, a full-service digital marketing agency with a focus on solutions for event organizers.

With the acquisition, Tag Digital will enhance Freeman’s digital marketing capabilities.

“With millennials and Gen Z increasingly shaping the workforce, digital marketing is more critical than ever as the first channel these generations turn to for information and inspiration – both in their personal and professional lives,” says Janet Dell, Freeman CEO. “By combining best-in-class digital marketing capabilities and leveraging AI-driven tools, mdg is positioned as the go-to agency for strategies that engage today’s attendees while setting events up for sustained growth.” 

IAEE’s Expo! Expo! Earns Sustainability Certification for Third Consecutive Year

March 6, 2025—The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) has once again achieved Silver Level Certification from the Events Industry Council (EIC) for its flagship event, Expo! Expo! 2024. This marks the third consecutive year the event has been recognized for its commitment to environmental and social responsibility, improving from a Bronze Level in 2022.

IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM, emphasized that sustainability is an ongoing commitment, saying, “By following the EIC Sustainable Event Standards, we can refine our processes, reduce our environmental impact and set a positive example for the exhibitions and events industry.”

The EIC Sustainable Event Standards provide a framework for measuring sustainability efforts in areas such as climate action, water management, supply chain, diversity, equity and inclusion.

EIC President and CEO Amy Calvert praised IAEE’s leadership, calling Expo! Expo! “a model for how organizations can prioritize environmental and social responsibility while delivering impactful events.”

The certification was verified by the Alliance for Audited Media, which applauded IAEE’s commitment to continuous improvement in sustainable event management.

Vignette Collection Partners with World Literacy Foundation to Combat Illiteracy

March 6, 2025—Vignette Collection, IHG Hotels & Resorts‘ fast-growing luxury and lifestyle brand, has announced a global partnership with the World Literacy Foundation to support the mission of eradicating illiteracy by 2040. Through this initiative, Vignette Collection properties will host pop-up libraries and literacy programs in their local communities, aligning with the brand’s ‘A Means for Good’ commitment to responsible travel.

The initiative comes as travelers increasingly prioritize socially responsible brands, with 82% of consumers estimated to select hotels based on their business practices.

“Our aim is to support those in the communities of our hotels to access vital education to broaden their horizons and reach their full potential,” said Tom Rowntree, vice president of luxury & lifestyle brands at IHG Hotels & Resorts.

The partnership will fund pop-up libraries launching later this year in Kuwait City, Lisbon and Brisbane, while literacy programs will extend to a school in Liverpool and a hospital in Washington, D.C. Additional funding will support education efforts in conflict-impacted areas of Colombia.

World Literacy Foundation CEO and Founder Andy Kay emphasized the impact of the collaboration, telling the press, “With the platform provided by Vignette Collection’s growing family of hotels, we will reach many more communities who need them most in our pursuit to end illiteracy by 2040.”

Georgia Tourism Industry Presents $5 Billion Tax Revenue Check to Governor Kemp

March 6, 2025—Georgia’s tourism industry celebrated its $5 billion contribution to state and local tax revenue during Tourism Day at the Capitol on March 5. Georgia Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus (GACVB), alongside tourism professionals, presented Governor Brian Kemp with a ceremonial check, highlighting the industry’s role in Georgia’s economy.

“Tourism plays a vital role in Georgia’s economy, providing thousands of jobs, boosting local businesses and contributing billions in revenue,” said Amanda Dyson Thornton, executive director of GACVB.

With over 400,000 tourism and hospitality-related jobs, Georgia’s tourism sector grew 5% year over year. Visitor spending reached $40 billion annually, an 8% increase from 2022 to 2023, ranking Georgia as the fifth most-visited state for domestic travel in the U.S.

The event, marking the return of Tourism Day at the Capitol after a five-year hiatus, was supported by key sponsors, including Georgia’s Blue Ridge Fannin County Chamber & CVB, Visit Savannah, Pick Ellijay, Cartersville Bartow County Tourism and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Sandy Springs Becomes First City in Georgia to Be ‘Destination Verified’

March 6, 2025—Visit Sandy Springs has been recognized as the first location in Georgia to achieve “Destination Verified” status with Wheel the World.

This designation by the global accessibility platform highlights Sandy Springs as a welcoming place for accessible tourism for those with disabilities. To achieve this status, Wheel the World spent the past year assessing dozens of businesses, attractions and hotels in the city, which can be found on Wheel the World’s platform for visitors to identify when searching for accessible businesses.

“There’s a growing awareness in the travel industry to be more inclusive; it’s no longer a trend but an expectation that destinations provide experiences that welcome all types of travelers,” says Adam Berrios, executive director of Visit Sandy Springs. “We are thrilled to be a leader in the State, recognizing the importance of this issue for the more than 1.3 billion people worldwide who live with some kind of disability.”

Guadalajara to be Host Destination of First ITB Americas

March 5, 2025—Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico, will be the host destination of the first ITB Americas Nov. 10-12, 2026, joining the Internationale Tourismus-Borse’s (ITB) Berlin event.

This new event will take place at Expo Guadalajara and is schedule to see players in the tourism industry from North America, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. The announcement was made at ITB Berlin, where Michelle Fridman Hirsch, the new tourism secretary of Jalisco, and Gustavo Staufert, director of Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau, were in attendance.

Registration Now Open for DI 2025 Annual Convention

March 5, 2025—Destinations International (DI) has announced that registration is now open for its annual event, DI Annual Convention, which takes place July 9-11, in Chicago.

In addition to the convention, which will feature sessions focused on key issues in the industry, opportunities to network and build connections, attendees will also be able to join in on the pre-event workshops, like Destinations International’s Tools Symposium, a half-day event that will provide insight into how to use several of DI’s tools, like the Event Impact Calculator, Symphony Platform and Website Impact Calculator

“Our 2025 Annual Convention will highlight the indispensable role of destination organizations in fostering community engagement, sustainability and responsible tourism,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of DI. “As the industry continues to adapt to new challenges and opportunities, we look forward to welcoming professionals to Chicago from around the world for an event filled with impactful learning, networking and strategies for innovation, workforce development and destination stewardship. We extend our gratitude to Choose Chicago and the entire local team for their partnership in making this a must-attend experience.”

Impact XM Acquires UK’s Touch Associates

March 4, 2025—Global experiential marketing agency Impact XM has acquired Touch Associates, a U.K.-based brand experience agency. With the two companies combined, clients will have an expanded source of services to create immersive experiences.

“This partnership is an incredible opportunity to bring together two companies that share a passion for designing experiences that truly connect with audiences,” said David Bottrill, managing director of Touch. “The combination of Touch’s strategic event expertise and Impact XM’s experiential marketing capabilities will allow us to deliver richer, more engaging, and more impactful brand experiences for our clients.”

NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality and Marriott Foundation Create Workforce Apprenticeship Fund

March 3, 2025—NYU School of Professional Studies (NYU SPS) and The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation (JWASM) have established The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation Workforce Apprenticeship Fund.

The $5 million fund will allow the NYU SPS Jonathan M. Tisch Center for Hospitality create a program to prepare NYU SPS associate degree students for hospitality careers. Upon completion of their associate degree, they will have the option to continue their studies toward an NYU SPS bachelor’s degree.

“Our Workforce Apprentice Program will provide students significant hands-on professional experience and networking opportunities while earning academic credits toward an associate degree at NYU SPS,” said Nicolas Graf, Jonathan M. Tisch Chaired professor and associate dean of NYU SPS Tisch Center for Hospitality. “We are thankful for the Marriott Foundation’s generous donation to help reduce barriers to entry and build a robust pipeline of skilled hospitality professionals through engaging applied learning opportunities, professional mentoring, lower tuition costs, and seamless links to earn degrees.”

Along with The JWASM Foundation, AHEAD, AHLA Foundation and additional hospitality firms will work with NYU to develop the program curriculum and create apprenticeship positions for employment in the hospitality and tourism industry.

DMC Network Partners Earn 11 Honors at 2025 ADMEI Awards

Feb. 27, 2025—DMC Network partners earned 11 accolades at this year’s ADMEI Awards Gala in Arlington, Texas. From Best Destination Marketing to Best Use of Technology, DMC Network’s partners were celebrated for upholding high industry standards.

“We continue to raise the bar higher for ourselves each and every year, which is incredible to see,” said DMC Network Managing Director Aoife Delaney. “I am so proud of our winning DMC teams. They’re shining examples of how all of our DMC partners stand out as best-in-class in the range of services and specialties planners rely on DMCs to deliver. It’s an incredibly special network to be part of.”

The DMC Network partners that earned 2025 ADMEI Achievement Awards include:

• Best Destination Marketing: Island Destination Services
• Best DEIA Initiative: Destination Philly A.C.
• Best Event—$500,000-1 million: Australia Conferences & Incentives
• Best Event—Over $1 million: Imprint Events Florida
• Best Incentive Program: Terramar Panama
• Best Overall Program: Terramar Panama
• Best Logistics: Imprint Events Colorado
• Best Six-Week Challenge Event: Mosaix Group
• Best Use of Technology: Imprint Events Florida

Exhibitions Industry Collective Launches Workforce Development

Feb. 27, 2025—Exhibitions Industry Collective has introduced a nationwide workforce development initiative to introduce students and young professionals to careers in the events world. The program is designed to fill the workforce gap by partnering with schools, universities and educational institutions.

Young professionals entering the Exhibition Industry Collective’s initiative should expect:

• Educational presentations: Professionals from the industry will visit schools and universities to provide insights into careers in exhibitions and events.
• Resource toolkit: Participants will receive a complete toolkit that includes a PowerPoint presentation, speaking notes, email communications, speaker training and FAQs, and key messaging points to ensure a consistent message.
• Social media engagement: Attendees and presenters are encouraged to share their experiences by using designated hashtags and tagging the participating industry associations.
• Impact tracking: A reporting system will evaluate outreach success by collecting data on the number of students reached and their level of interest in industry careers.

Brand Revolution Grand Opening in Cedar Park, Texas

Feb. 21, 2025—Brand Revolution, a global marketing agency, recently celebrated the grand opening of their new offices in Cedar Park Texas on February 19.

The celebration included a cocktail hour, red-carpet arrival, ribbon-cutting ceremony, lantern tour, scavenger hunt and catering from the local Peached Tortilla.

“The opening of our Cedar Park office is a landmark moment for Brand Revolution. This new space represents our commitment to growth, innovation, and collaboration. It’s not just about expanding our physical presence but about creating an environment that inspires creativity and connection—both with our team and the clients we serve,” says Alisa Haynes, CEO of Brand Revolution.

The Cedar Park office includes modern workspaces, a state-of-the-art studio, a podcasting studio and a production suite, furthering  Brand Revolution’s strengths in strategy,  video production, event execution and more!

The expansion expands Brand Revolution’s values of  inclusivity, sustainability, and community engagement while strengthening its presence in the Cedar Park area.

Rio Las Vegas Joins Hyatt Convention Alliance

Feb. 20, 2025—Rio Las Vegas, a Destination by Hyatt Hotel, announced today that it has joined the Hyatt Convention Alliance (HCA) for the Las Vegas Market. The Hyatt Convention Alliance, a collection of premier Hyatt-branded hotels in key markets across the United States that offer exemplary service for events, now includes 11 properties. Rio Las Vegas’s addition to the HCA follows its completion of phase one of a $340 million property-wide renovation.

The hotel joined the Destination by Hyatt brand in 2024, and now, as part of the HCA, it brings the alliance a significant boost in meeting and event options—with its 2,520 rooms and 220,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event space, it expands the range in size of HCA properties, previously between 1,003 to to 2,032 guest rooms. Rio Las Vegas’s extensive facilities and renowned hospitality bring more options for groups of all sizes and with varying event needs to the HCA.

Jacqueline Kennedy, Director of Business Development, Hyatt Convention Alliance, said in a press release, “The addition of Rio Las Vegas to Hyatt Convention Alliance offers an outstanding option in the high-demand Las Vegas market, which invites our customers to experience a new destination and hotel with unique offerings when rotating their meetings to the West Coast.”

Other HCA hotels include Grand Hyatt San Diego, Grand Hyatt San Antonio, Hyatt Regency Atlanta, Hyatt Regency Chicago, Hyatt Regency Dallas, Hyatt Regency Denver, Hyatt Regency New Orleans, Hyatt Regency Orlando, Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago and Hyatt Regency Seattle.

Opus Agency Expands Global Reach with Acquisition

Feb. 19, 2025—Opus Agency, a global leader in events, has announced that it has acquired The Company We Keep (The CWK), a premier Asia-Pacific-based experiential marketing agency.

“The alignment between Opus Agency and The CWK is remarkable—from our shared clients like Salesforce to our creative capabilities and our cultural ethos. This partnership opens up new opportunities for our team, our clients, and our future, as we continue to lead in the APAC region while contributing to Opus Agency’s global success,” says Nigel Ruffle, CEO of The CWK.

The CWK holds offices in Australia, Singapore and New Zealand, offering localized expertise in brand experiences that allow Opus Agency to provide assistance on a global scale. This partnership allows both brands to create deeper connection across the world.

Jamaica Hosts Third Global Tourism Resilience Conference

Feb. 18, 2025—From February 17-19, 2025, thought leaders, industry experts and stakeholders from all over the world—countries including Kenya, Spain, Greece, Canada, Barbados, the United States of America and more—gather in Jamaica, at Princess Grand in Negril, for the third Global Tourism Resilience Conference. These representatives come together to explore innovative strategies to enhance tourism resilience and sustainability on a global scale, with key focus areas in disaster recovery, climate change adaptation and the industry’s developing digital transformation.

Professor Lloyd Waller, executive director of the Global Tourism Resilience and Crisis Management Centre, said in a press release, “We are pleased to see the growing interest and participation from countries worldwide. This conference is more than just a gathering; it is a catalyst for action and collaboration, driving resilience and sustainable growth in global tourism.”

Between keynote speeches, panel discussions and workshops to empower participants to navigate challenges and leverage opportunities in the tourism sector, the conference is positioned to foster international partnerships and knowledge exchange, which will be the building blocks for impactful solutions to the tourism industry’s present challenges.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, the Honorable Edmund Bartlett, says, “Jamaica is ready to welcome strong delegation from all of these countries…This is a show of confidence in the destination as a thought leader in resilience and highlights the level of global collaboration to future proof tourism.”

San Diego Tourism Authority Appoints New President and CEO

Feb. 13, 2025—The San Diego Tourism Authority announced today its board has selected Daniel Kuperschmid as its new president and CEO. Kuperschmid most recently served as vice president global asset management at Hyatt Hotels Corp., managing a global portfolio of 42 hotels. He has served with Hyatt for 30 years, having began his career as a sales manager at Hyatt New Orleans before advancing through sales and marketing roles across multiple U.S. markets within Hyatt. He went on to serve as general manager at Hyatt properties across Arizona, New Mexico and California, and from 2018 to 2024, served as area vice president and general manager with Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, where he oversaw eight hotels in the Southern California market, including the Andaz San Diego and Hyatt Regency properties in Mission Bay and La Jolla. In his time with Hyatt, he developed a reputation for driving significant revenue growth and group sales production. He has been a champion of DEI initiatives and has overseen numerous major property renovations.

In his time in San Diego, he has been an active member of the community and the city’s travel industry. He has served on SDTA’s Board of Directors, and was Board Chair from 2019 to 2023. In this time, he played a central role in selecting Julie Coker as SDTA’s president and CEO, which she served as from 2020 to 2024. He has also served on the advisory committee for the Say Yes to a Better San Diego campaign, which supports the San Diego Convention Center‘s expansion, and has sat on the board of directors for the San Diego Marketing District from 2023 to 2024. Kuperschmid was instrumental in guiding the city’s tourism community through the pandemic and the following recovery period, alongside Coker and the SDTA Board of Directors.

Now, as he steps in as president and CEO of SDTA, the San Diego tourism community is reaching record levels, with 32 million visitors who contributed a record $14.6 billion in local direct spending in 2024. Local hotels in San Diego are achieving higher occupancy rates countywide, and San Diego County ranked third among the top 25 U.S. markets for hotel occupancy at 74.3%.

“Tourism is a powerful economic engine that creates jobs and enriches both our visitors and residents,” Kuperschmid said in a press release. “I’m grateful for SDTA’s Board of Directors confidence in me, and I look forward to working with the talented SDTA team to further establish San Diego’s position as a premier global destination.”

He will assume his role March 24, 2025.

New Orleans Announces UNESCO Application

Feb. 12, 2025—New Orleans & Company and the City of New Orleans announced that they will submit an application to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). The application is for the category of ‘Creative City’ of Music.

“Not only is music the key to the soul for many of us who live here, the creative industries surrounding music employ thousands of local artists, craftspeople, and support personnel, contributing significantly to the New Orleans economy,” says New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “Being selected to join the UNESCO Creative Cities Network will help us further amplify the positive social and economic impacts of New Orleans’ music industry.”

UNESCO’s (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) mission is to promote international cooperation and knowledge sharing to foster peace and sustainable development.

ASAE Announces 135 Professionals Earned CAE Credential

Feb. 12, 2025—ASAE has announced that 135 association executives have earned their Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from the CAE Commission of ASAE. The group joins more than 4,500 leaders around the world in the executive cohort.

“Congratulations to the newest class of CAEs! This milestone is a testament to your dedication, expertise, and commitment to advancing the profession. By earning the CAE credential, you join a community of leaders who are driving meaningful impact in associations and the industries they support.”, says TJ Coté, MBA, CAE, Chair of the CAE Commission and President and CEO of NextGen Association Management.

For more information about CAE, click here.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Hosts 8th Annual Bum Run for Cancer Awareness

Feb. 12, 2025—Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa has announced the 8th Annual Bum Run. A 2.5 mile fun run/walk in partnership with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life Kauai.

The event, which takes place on March 1st, aims to raise awareness for colon cancer prevention and early detection in recognition of Colon Cancer Awareness Month.

“As this year marks the 11th anniversary of my colon cancer diagnosis, the Bum Run is a reminder of hope, resilience, and importance of community,” says Diann Hartman, director of marketing communications at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. “When I was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, I was living an active lifestyle, ate very healthy and had no symptoms. My journey underscores the reality that this disease can impact anyone, but can be treated and even curable when caught early, which is why awareness is so important. Through events like these, we not only raise awareness but also inspire action to find a cure and honor those we’ve lost to this brutal disease. I’m deeply honored to stand with our team, guests, and community to continue this important mission.”

Particpants can register at Active.com.

Hyatt Agrees to Buy Playa Hotels

Feb. 11, 2025—Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the company’s plan to acquire Playa Hotels & Resorts for $2.6 billion.

“Hyatt has firmly established itself as a leader in the all-inclusive space, a journey that began in 2013 through an investment in Playa Hotels & Resorts that launched the Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara brands,” said Mark Hoplamazian, Hyatt’s president and CEO. “We have respected and benefitted from Playa’s operating expertise and outstanding guest experience delivery for years through their ownership and management of eight of our Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara hotels. This pending transaction allows us to broaden our portfolio while providing more value to all of our stakeholders through an expanded management platform for all-inclusive resorts.”

This pending acquisition, set to close later this year, follows Hyatt’s purchase of Apple Leisure Group in 2021 and the completion of a 50-50 joint venture with Grupo Pinero in 2024, which added Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts to Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection, extending its reach throughout Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe

Visit Milwaukee Launches Immersive Tour of Baird Center

Feb. 10, 2025—Visit Milwaukee recently unveiled a drone video of its expanded and modernized Baird Center using drone technology.

The video, produced in partnership with Madden Media, takes viewers through a journey through Baird Center’s spaces and amenities. This video will be used by Visit Milwaukee and Baird Center to promote the convention center.

“This drone video represents Milwaukee’s innovative spirit and our commitment to results-driven creative approaches in destination marketing,” said Josh Albrecht, chief marketing officer of Visit Milwaukee. “It’s a tool that will not only captivate but also provide valuable insight to planners considering Baird Center for their events.”

Visit Baltimore CEO Unveils Transition Plan

Feb. 6, 2025—Al Hutchinson, president and CEO of Visit Baltimore, has announced that he will not renew his contract, which expires on June 30, 2025.

A transition committee, led by Baltimore Convention & Tourism Board Chair Charles “Chuck” Tildon, III, will oversee the search for his successor. Hutchinson will remain in a consulting role until a new leader is appointed.

“Serving as President & CEO of Visit Baltimore has been the opportunity of a lifetime,” says Hutchinson. “It has been the most challenging yet fulfilling job I’ve ever had. After careful consideration, I’ve decided to step back from full-time executive leadership to focus on personal interests and new opportunities once my contract concludes. Baltimore’s potential as a premier destination continues to grow, and the strong foundation we’ve built ensures the city’s tourism industry will thrive for years to come.”

Under Hutchinson’s leadership, Baltimore’s tourism and hospitality industry has achieved significant milestones, including a record-breaking 27.5 million visitors in 2023.

BCD Meetings and Events Announces Supplier Award Winners

Feb. 6, 2025—BCD Meetings & Events have announced their 2025 Supplier Award Winners.

The winners of the year’s Supplier Program Recognition Awards celebrate the organizations that have focused on collaboration, innovation, and customer service.

“These awards are well deserved and reflective of the impressive efforts we’ve seen from our supplier network this past year,“ said Christine Erickson, Senior Vice President of global supplier relations & partner network. “We are pleased to once again acknowledge our top partnerships as we grow alongside one another to elevate and deliver the highest quality customer service. Today, we take a moment to embrace their incredible successes, and tomorrow we work together to continue leading the industry forward.”

Hilton: Partner of the Year – Strategic Partnership

Recognized for their exemplary strategic partnership, demonstrating a strong commitment to mutual success

360Destination Group: DMC Partner of the Year – Service Excellence

Recognized for their outstanding partnership and commitment to service excellence

Visit Orlando: Partner of the Year – Service Excellence

Honored for their exceptional contributions as a new supplier, showcasing a dedication to service excellence

Plannernet: Partner of the Year – Service Excellence for Innovation

 Celebrated for their innovative approaches that have significantly improved service delivery

Radisson: Partner of the Year – Service Excellence

 Acknowledged for their unwavering commitment to service excellence across all operations

Congratulations  to all the winners!

Destination Professional Day Launching on February 19th, 2025

Feb. 5, 2025—On February 19, 1896, the city of Detriot became the home of the modern destination promotion industry following the formation of the Detriot Convention and Businessman’s League.

The creation would be the starting framework for the creation of a global network of over 10,000 destination organizations, conventions and visitors bureaus (CVBs) as well as destination marketing organizations (DMOs).

To recognize the impact of this day on the whole of the meetings industry, Destinations International announced the launch of Destinations Professionals Day on February 19th, 2025.

The annually observed celebration aims to celebrate destination professionals, encourage economic  growth and shape the travel industry.

Visit Atlantic City and DO AC Unite

Feb. 5, 2025—Combining meetings and leisure marketing and communications into a single destination brand, Visit Atlantic City has announced its integration with DO AC under the unified Visit Atlantic City name.

Gary Musich, president and CEO of Visit Atlantic City, said, “The move allows us to speak as a stronger, united voice, streamlining our efforts in amplifying Atlantic City’s appeal as a premier destination for leisure and business travelers. It also enables us to deliver a greater economic impact for our community.”

The VisitAtlanticCity.com site now features a booking engine, bringing leisure and meetings marketing for all audiences.

At its annual meeting, Visit Atlantic City also debuted new spring/summer marketing campaigns and a destination video highlighting “Where Celebrations Live On” and “Create Memory Making Moments” based on testing research.

ASAE Research Foundation Announces New AMC Leaders Scholarship

The ASAE Research Foundation has introduced the AMC Leaders Scholarship, a new initiative aimed at supporting association professionals working within association management companies (AMCs).

Made possible by a generous donation from Lynda Bouchard Patterson, FASAE, CAE, founder and CEO of AMPED Association Management, the scholarship seeks to strengthen AMC leadership and expand awareness of AMCs as a vital career path in the association industry.

Each year, three AMC professionals will receive $3,000 in funding to attend ASAE in-person events, covering registration, travel and related expenses. Scholarship recipients will also gain exclusive networking opportunities, educational experiences and one-on-one coaching sessions, with complimentary ASAE membership for those not yet enrolled.

“I started this scholarship because I believe in the power of strong leadership within AMCs,” said Patterson. “This initiative will help develop leaders who enhance the connection between AMCs and associations, driving greater impact across industries.”

The ASAE Research Foundation extended special thanks to the founding corporate donors who helped make this initiative possible. For more details on the AMC Leaders Scholarship, visit ASAE’s website.

Walt Disney World Resort Debuts Reimagined Disney Creative Studio

Feb. 3, 2025—Walt Disney World Resort announces the newly reimagined Disney Creative Studio, which will serve as an epicenter for resources available to meeting professionals under one roof. From discovering engaging entertainment and content options to décor, florals, catering and more, planners have access to a vast array of planning tools. Disney Meetings & Events also introduces new team-building experiences and a range of new program openers to meet the increased desire for engaging and impactful moments in meetings and events.

Planners can learn more in the YouTube video announcing the debut, and by visiting DisneyMeetingsandEvents.com.

Smart Meetings says: As planners recognize the increased desire among attendees for impactful, memorable moments at meetings and events, more and more organizations are debuting programs like this, reflecting the growing recognition of this trend throughout the intersecting industries of MICE, hospitality and tourism. As planners see increased opportunities and programs designed to help them, the busy process of planning becomes more accessible, and helps planners to bring these high-demand, outstanding experiences to life.

Ernest N. Morial New Orleans and Omni Hotels to Develop Headquarters Hotel

Jan. 31, 2025—Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority approved a headquarters hotel development agreement with Omni Hotels & Resorts to develop a 1,000-room property.

When completed in 2029, Omni New Orleans will be located across the street from New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

“Today marks a significant milestone for New Orleans and Louisiana. Omni’s investment demonstrates the confidence national businesses have in New Orleans and our state and reinforces that we are open and ready for new opportunities,” said Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.

“This hotel will draw new meetings, conventions and business travelers to the region, benefiting hospitality-related businesses and creating more jobs for residents. It’s a gamechanger for the tourism industry that powers New Orleans, and I look forward to seeing Omni New Orleans become a landmark for hospitality and a symbol of growth in Louisiana.”

This will be Omni’s second hotel in New Orleans, joining Omni Royal Orleans, whose building was acquired by Omni in 2021, after being operated by the brand for decades.

Tulsa and Oak View Group Partner with Arvest Bank to Rename Convention Center

Jan. 31, 2025—Effective March 1, Arvest Bank will have the naming rights of Cox Business Convention Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The city of Tulsa and Oak View Group have entered a 10-year partnership with the bank, approved by Tulsa Public Facilities Authority Jan. 30. The venue, managed by Oak View Group, will become Arvest Convention Center.

“This partnership with Arvest Bank is an exciting milestone for the City of Tulsa and our convention center,” said Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols. “With Oak View Group’s management of the facility and Arvest’s deep commitment to our community, we are confident that this collaboration will help us take the convention center to new heights. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on Tulsa, driving growth, and enhancing the experience for residents and visitors alike.”

In November, Arvest announced an agreement for the naming rights of the former Bank of America Center tower in downtown Tulsa, to be named Arvest Tower. Additionally, plans are underway for a 650-room convention center headquarters hotel .

RingCentral Unveils Streaming Studio

Jan. 30, 2025—RingCentral has unveiled Studio, a cutting-edge streaming platform build to deliver a seamless event production experience.

Studio includes:

Unified Speaker Interface – Access the event and production studio from a single, intuitive screen.

Real-Time Streaming – Deliver live sessions with zero stream delay, ensuring a seamless experience.

Effortless Event Control – Pre-uploaded content (videos, music, images), backstage chat, multi-select speaker/content controls, and universal slide management.

Branded, High-Quality Streams – Advanced branding options and dynamic speaker layouts for a polished, professional presentation.

Maximized Audience Engagement – Speakers are able to interact directly in attendee chat, highlight Q&A, leverage AI-driven categorization, run polls and showcase reactions.

AHLA Foundation Raises Over $1 Million at Annual Gala, Matches Donations for LA Wildfire Assistance

American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Foundation raised over $1 million at its annual gala, hosted at the Beverly Hilton on Jan. 27. This year’s event included a $10,000 donation to the Red Cross and LA Fire Department Foundation to support disaster relief efforts in Los Angeles, and AHLA will match up to $25,000 of donations by its members.

The gala, known as Night of a Thousand Stars, celebrates outstanding achievements across the industry with five awards aimed at the following categories: hospitality professionals under 30 years old, hospitality student excellence, women creating paths for other women in the industry to succeed and the lodging employee of the year.

“One of the things I’ve always loved about this industry is the way it loves its people. Night of a Thousand Stars is an opportunity for our industry to celebrate the incredible people who make hospitality all it is,” said Rosanna Maietta, president and CEO of AHLA. “Their stories are so powerful. They are the heart of our industry and the reason the work the AHLA Foundation does is so important to advancing the careers of so many.”

Over 400 industry leaders attended the event, with proceeds supporting workforce development initiatives for hotel industry employees.

AHLA’s 2025 Stars of the Industry winners

North Star: Lodging Employee of the Year Award

Melvin De La Cruz, assistant to director of HR, The Park Vista, a DoubleTree by Hilton

AHLA Foundation ForWard: Paving the Way Award

Whitney Bergmann, General Manager, Best Western Plus Grant Creek Inn

Stevan Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year Award

Nicole Harker, Front Office Manager, Amara Resort & Spa

AHLA Foundation Scholar of the Year Award

Devin Grady, Student, Anne Arundel Community College and Accountant, Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center

IACC Launches Survey for Meeting Profs

IACC (formerly the International Association of Conference Centers) has launched its 2025 survey for meeting profs. The organization, which is the only that represents smaller meetings and conference-focused venues, has partnered with MPI (Meeting Professionals International) as well as several other industry-leading companies in order to gather original research on venue meeting and conference spaces today, as well as future projections on the sector.

The survey, which takes a few minutes to complete, will provide details on challenges faced by buyers and attendees. The first 100 participants will receive a $10 Starbucks gift card, or $10 will be donated to UNICEF, as appreciation for contributing to the research.

CROW Practice Hosts Roundtable Discussions on Event Wellness

Jan. 27, 2025—CROW Practice (Coordinated Response on Wellness Practice), which designs wellness programs to meet the needs of corporate professionals across the U.S., launches informal roundtable discussions for participants to explore the challenges and opportunities of incorporating wellness into events and help them learn how to create more meaningful wellness experiences for attendees through a format that allows open dialogue, collaboration and resource-sharing.

These sessions allow event professionals to connect and share insights, as well as to learn about wellness trends that are shaping the industry. At the center of these roundtables is CROW Practice’s wellness survey, which collects data directly from planners to assess key insights, common challenges and the opportunities that arise from impactful wellness experiences. The results will be shared with industry leaders, enabling the entire industry community to learn from them. All participants will have access to the wellness survey and can contribute their own insights, as well as access the data once it has been analyzed.

As an extension of these roundtables, CROW Practice recognizes the stress that many planners face, and offers free stress management resources for planners.

The roundtable discussions will be held on Wednesday, February 12, and Thursday, February 27, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. EST. Planners can RSVP here to register and receive a direct Zoom meeting invitation with further details.

Arlington CVB Named “Most Exciting Meeting Destination Change” Winner for the Second Time

Jan. 27, 2025—The Arlington Convention and Visitors Bureau has been named as the winner of the 2025 Most Exciting Meeting Destination Change Award, and will be presented with the award during the morning general session and breakfast of Southwest Showcase 2025 on Wednesday, January 29.

This award honors cities, bureaus, organizations or projects that have made transformative impacts on a destination, particularly when those impacts are of interest to the events industry. ACVB’s significant accomplishments include the opening of hte National Medal of Honor Museum, a new, expanded home for the Arlington Museum of Art, the brand new Arlington Convention Center and the new 888-room Loews Arlington Hotel.

ACVB received this award in 2021 as well, for the development and promotion of Texas Live! and Live! by Loews, which transformed the city’s entertainment district into an increasingly vibrant and attractive hub for events, entertainment and hospitality. Receiving the award once again makes ACVB the only CVB to receive the award twice, which marks its significant investment in the meetings and events industry.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and vision that Arlington has invested in developing a dynamic, world-class destination for meetings and conventions,” said Chad Enloe, SVP Sales for the ACVB. “The transformation of our Entertainment District, the expansion of top-tier venues, and the ongoing investments in our community’s infrastructure are all part of our commitment to providing exceptional experiences for meeting planners and their attendees. We are thrilled to once again be recognized for our efforts.”

Westgate Las Vegas and The Boring Company Open New Las Vegas Loop Station

Jan. 22, 2025—The Boring Company has officially opened the Vegas Loop’s Westgate Station.

Located at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino’s porte-cochere, this Vegas Loop station connects to Las Vegas Convention Center and Resorts World Las Vegas. As the Loop expands, it will include connections to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Allegiant Stadium and the Las Vegas Strip.

“The addition of the Vegas Loop at Westgate demonstrates our commitment to innovation and convenience,” said Cami Christensen, president and general manager of Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. “We’re thrilled to partner with LVCVA and The Boring Company to provide this cutting-edge transportation option for our guests and the Las Vegas community. Additionally, with both the Monorail and the Vegas Loop, Westgate is the most connected resort in Las Vegas.”

Los Cabos Tourism Board Launches New Digital Ecosystem

Jan. 21, 2025—The Los Cabos Tourism Board has announced the launch of its brand new digital ecosystem, the first of its kind in Mexico. The platform sets a new standard in digital destination marketing, leveraging cutting-edge technology to create an exclusive, accessible and personalized experience for users. It offers a comprehensive list of digital tools, centered around three pillars of innovation: inclusion through accessibility, innovative digital experiences and immersive visual storytelling.

Firstly, inclusion through accessibility ensures users of all abilities find the content accessible with features such as adjustable color contrast, text resizing and font adjustments, through a partnership with AudioEye to meet WCAG standards.

The second pillar, innovative digital experiences, incorporates AI-powered recommendations like interactive flight maps, itinerary planning and immersive 360-degree tours, allowing users to virtually explore activities before booking them; it also meets the needs of diverse traveler interests, allowing users to curate their immersive explorations in dedicated sections on rural tourism, wellness, sustainability, gastronomy and more.

The third and final pillar is immersive visual storytelling, which offers curated content, including articles, videos and user-generated content to capture the authentic energy of Los Cabos with vibrant imagery created by acclaimed photographer Ben Horton, while the AI-powered recommendation engine suggests personalized activities and experiences based on the user’s interests.

“We are thrilled to unveil this groundbreaking new digital ecosystem,” said Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of Los Cabos Tourism Board. “This platform underscores Los Cabos’ commitment to innovation and our dedication to providing exceptional, accessible travel experiences for all travelers. We believe this transformative digital tool will inspire even more travelers to discover the unique places and experiences available in Los Cabos.” 

Entire Productions Launches New Division for Northern CA Destination Management

Jan. 21, 2024—Leading experiential corporate event and entertainment production agency Entire Productions has announced the addition of its Entire Destination Management division, which will offer services throughout Northern California, including the Monterey Peninsula and wine country’s Napa and Sonoma. Options include direct access to a full-service entertainment production division, flexible pricing models and proprietary strategy development tools.

“At Entire Destination Management, we blend unparalleled experience design with a customer-first approach,” says Natasha Miller, CEO of Entire Productions. “Our clients benefit from the industry’s only destination management company (DMC) that integrates a full-service entertainment production division—delivering premium services without the typical markups.”

DI Launches Website Impact Calculator in Partnership with Tourism Economics

Jan. 14, 2025—Destinations International (DI) has partnered with Tourism Economics to launch its Website Impact Calculator (WIC), a tool to measure the economic impact of destination marketing organization (DMO) websites on local economies. The platform will calculate the conversion of website visitors into actual travelers by quantifying website-driven visits, and calculates visitor spending, including in lodging, dining, retail, transportation and entertainment, based on localized economic impact modeling. Tourism Economics provides proprietary data utilizing its Symphony Intelligence Platform, an interactive hub for data sources, that the WIC uses to provide insights. DMOs are then able to use those insights to assess the benefits of their owned media and develop strategies to optimize website content and the methods they use to drive traffic. The WIC joins the Event Impact Calculator (EIC), which measures the economic impact of events on a destination, in use by over 350 destination organizations worldwide.

This new tool enables DMO professionals to see key insights into how digital traffic leads to local spending, job creation and tax revenue in their destinations. Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International, says, “Destination organizations are increasingly relying on digital platforms to promote their destination and attract visitors, but until now there has been limited understanding of how website traffic translates into tangible economic benefit. The Website Impact Calculator empowers destination organizations by providing the data they need to optimize marketing and promotion efforts, demonstrate value, and foster stronger relationships with local stakeholders.” 

W Las Vegas Debuts at Mandalay Bay

Jan. 2, 2025—MGM Resorts International and Marriott International, Inc. officially marked the debut of W Las Vegas, transitioning the iconic 1,117-suite tower on the Mandalay Bay campus into W Hotels brand.

Marriott Bonvoy members can now book stays and earn and redeem points as part of the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy. With the addition of W Las Vegas, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy encompasses 12 destinations on the Las Vegas Strip, including Bellagio, a Luxury Collection Resort & Casino; ARIA Resort & Casino, Autograph Collection; The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Autograph Collection; and Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy.

Rogers Centre Ottawa Partners with LouLou Lounge

Dec. 27, 2024—Rogers Centre Ottawa announced a three-year partnership with LouLou Lounge Furniture Rentals as a preferred supplier for special event decor, furnishings and room design.

As part of the agreement LouLou Lounge will collaborate with the Rogers Centre Ottawa team to provide furniture for the Colonel By North Foyer, located next to the main entrance. This inviting space, visible from the street view, serves as a prime location for delegates to relax between sessions or catch up on emails.

Regenerative Travel Announces Winners of 2024 Travel Impact Awards

Dec. 26, 2024—Regenerative Travel named the winners of the 2024 Regenerative Travel Impact Awards, celebrating exceptional individuals, organizations and initiatives driving transformative change in the travel industry. These awards honor those who exemplify the principles of regeneration by fostering environmental conservation, community empowerment and meaningful experiences. The 2024 winners, selected by a panel of experts, and the People’s Choice Award voted on by the public, represent the pinnacle of innovation and dedication in the field.

Regenerative Hotel of the Year: El Albergue Ollantaytambo, recognized for pioneering regeneration in the Sacred Valley, Peru.

Regenerative Changemaker of the Year: Sarah Dusek, celebrated for her visionary leadership in advancing sustainable hospitality.

Regenerative Agency of the Year: Himalayan Ecotourism, honored for sustainable adventures that empower women and conserve ecosystems.

Regenerative Storyteller of the Year: Pier Nirandara, celebrated for amplifying awe for conservation through underwater storytelling.

Regenerative Experience of the Year: Kumano Adventures, Japan, acknowledged for curating deeply immersive journeys that celebrate Japan’s sacred landscapes while preserving its cultural heritage.

Impact Award for Conservation: Love the Oceans, commended for pioneering marine conservation efforts and empowering local communities in Mozambique.

Impact Award for Food and Agriculture: Ngalung Kalla, celebrated for its innovative approach to sustainable farming and food security in Indonesia.

Community Project of the Year: I am Water, recognized for connecting underserved communities with ocean conservation through education and transformative experiences.

Impact Award for Health and Wellness: Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, honored for integrating regenerative wellness practices into transformative travel experiences in New Zealand.

Regenerative Design of the Year: Few and Far Luvhondo, praised for its groundbreaking architecture that harmonizes luxury with ecological restoration in South Africa.

Impact Award for Climate Innovation: Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda, highlighted for its pioneering grassroots solution for carbon offsetting in Mexico.

Impact Award for Education: Time + Tide – The Girls Club, recognized for empowering young women in Zambia through education and tourism-based skills development.

Regenerative Travel Initiative of the Year: Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Map, celebrated for its innovative platform connecting travelers with impactful experiences worldwide.

The People’s Choice Award: Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba, voted by the public for its inspiring commitment to sustainability and regenerative hospitality in the Caribbean.

New York City Tourism Finishes 2024 with $79 Billion in Economic Impact

Dec. 20, 2024—New York City Tourism + Convention announced its final forecast for the year. The report shows an established total economic pact of $76 billion across the city and state economies, which also includes $51 billion in spending by travelers.

“With nearly 65 million visitors this year—the second highest figure in our city’s history—New York City has once again solidified its position as the premier destination in the nation and one of the top travel spots in the world,” says New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “New York City remains a dynamic hub for tourism, drawing tens of millions of visitors from around the globe and bringing in $79 billion in economic impact. Whether visiting for business or pleasure, the five boroughs have everything you need, from conference halls to theaters to restaurants and hotels—New York City remains the heartbeat of innovation, culture and opportunity. And we’re looking forward to beating our own tourism record next year with a full recovery.”

Heading into 2025, New York City’s tourism is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels.

Smart Meeting says: Congratulations to New York City Tourism on a stellar 2024. We can’t wait to report on what’s next for the Big Apple!

Destinations International Releases 2025 Strategic Vision

Dec. 19, 2024—Destinations International (DI) announces its 2025 business plan and strategic priorities, reaffirming its commitment to empowering destination leaders and fostering inclusive, sustainable tourism that benefits both communities and visitors, following a meeting of the DI board of directors.

DI’s key accomplishments of 2024 include the addition of 77 new members, expanding the associations membership to 751 organizations across 34 countries and territories. The DI Foundation surpassed its fundraising goal and achieved over $1 million to support industry research and initiatives.

According to UN Tourism, international travel is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels in 2025. It is anticipated that over five billion travelers will take more than 40 million flights globally.

The DI 2025 business plan responds to these trends, with four key priorities:

• Community: With a focus on promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices to enable DI members and partners globally to connect and help their communities thrive.
• Professional Development: A commitment to expanding access to industry-leading certification programs like the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) and introducing new certificate programs that address workforce development, onboarding and upskilling.
• Advocacy and Research: Continued work to elevate and advance the mission, goals and efforts of destination organizations through a collective voice, and equipping DI members to advocate for their organizations and communities through expanding industry knowledge and access to cutting-edge research and data insights through initiatives like the 2025 Global DestinationNEXT Futures Study and new resident sentiment studies in the U.S. and Canada.
• Destination Tools: Advancing the development of tools and products built on best practices, insights and research to address key challenges, including stewardship and social inclusion, to equip members as they navigate the evolving travel industry.

DI has also scheduled a slate of training and events for 2025:

• Winter CDME Courses, February 1-4, 2025 (Austin, TX, USA) 
• Marketing & Communications Summit, February 4-6, 2025 (Austin, TX, USA) 
• CEO Summit, March 23-25, 2025 (Savannah, GA, USA)   
• Spring CDME Courses, week of April 7 (Washington, D.C. Metro area) 
• Convention Sales & Services Summit, week of April 7 (Washington, D.C. Metro area) 
• Visitor Services Summit, July 9, 2025 (Chicago, IL, USA) 
• Annual Convention, July 9-11, 2025 (Chicago, IL, USA) 
• Summer CDME Courses, July 12-15, 2025 (Chicago, IL, USA) 
• Fall CDME Courses, October 18-21, 2025 (Sacramento, CA, USA) 
• Advocacy Summit, October 21-23, 2025 (Sacramento, CA, USA) 
• Business Operations Summit, October 28-30, 2025 (Jackson, MS, USA) 
• Social Inclusion Summit, October 28-30, 2025 (Jackson, MS, USA) 

Smart Meetings says: As we move into the new year, industry organizations like Destinations International are working hard to elevate access and opportunities for their members. Keep an eye on how the tourism and travel industries evolve in the coming year as professionals in these industries take advantage of developing opportunities, and see how destinations are creating ever-better experiences for meetings and events.

See Monterey Releases AI-Enhanced Website and New Campaign

Dec. 17, 2024—See Monterey has launched a new meetings campaign and a redesigned website that utilizes travel AI.

The new campaign, “Inspiration Meets Here,” is a strategic mix of paid, owned, and earned media designed to interest planners by showing Monterey Country as a one-of-a-kind destination. The campaign also includes media of traditional and non-traditional venues and coastal scenery. The narrative around the campaign focuses on what is available to meeting professionals within Monterey County. 

See Monterey’s partnership with Mindtrip has produced a website that offers an intuitive planning experience that includes customer itinerary creation, tailored venue recommendation, and dynamic visuals and data. 

Smart Meetings says: Planners looking to host their next event in Monterey County have a brand new tool in their toolbox. Head over to SeeMonterey.com and see it for yourself!

AHLA and Cvent Announce Three-year Partnership

Dec. 17, 2024—For the next three years, Cvent will be the registration platform of choice for several American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AHLA) events.

“Cvent is a longtime global leader in meetings, events, and hospitality technology, and we are thrilled to be working hand-in-hand with them to foster meaningful connections across our industry,” said AHLA Chief Operating Officer and Senior Executive Vice President Kevin Carey. “Cvent will be a vital collaborator as AHLA continues to unite hoteliers, employees, vendors, and other industry partners via our world-class events and conferences.”

Through their partnership, Cvent will be the engine behind AHLA’s event registration, diagramming, attendee management and engagement, its mobile event app, and on-site check-in and badging for numerous AHLA and AHLA Foundation events.

Smart Meetings Says: With streamlined access to Cvent’s registration platform, AHLA’s members can experience better navigation across both platforms.

Federal Trade Commission Announces Bipartisan Rule Banning Junk Ticket, Hotel and Rental Fees

Dec. 17, 2024—Today, the FTC announced the Junk Fees Rule, banning tactics used by companies to hide total prices by burying junk fees until final purchase. The FTC asserts that these practices harm consumers and discredit businesses.

“People deserve to know up-front what they’re being asked to pay—without worrying that they’ll later be saddled with mysterious fees that they haven’t budgeted for and can’t avoid,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “The FTC’s rule will put an end to junk fees around live event tickets, hotels and vacation rentals, saving Americans billions of dollars and millions of hours in wasted time. I urge enforcers to continue cracking down on these unlawful fees and encourage state and federal policymakers to build on this success with legislation that bans unfair and deceptive junk fees across the economy.”

The ruling will hold companies accountable by ensuring that pricing information is presented in a timely, transparent and truthful way—the opposite of what many consumers of live-event ticketing or vacation rentals experience when the subtotal of a purchase balloons with junk fees. After the FTC received over 12,000 comments in 2022 on how these questionable practices have affected personal spending and competition, it first announced a proposed rule in October 2023 in response. An additional 60,000 comments flooded in, which were considered when developing the final rule, announced today.

Among the new requirements for businesses are including an all-in total price when advertising products or services, displaying the total price more prominently than other pricing information and disclosing the nature, purpose, identity and amount of additional fees before consumers consent to payment.

Virsitour Re-launches Event Technology Platform

Dec. 13, 2024—Virsitour has announced the re-launch of its website and platform today at 1 p.m. CST.

Virsitour, created to address the lack of in-person site visits during the pandemic, is a digital platform used for virtual site tours and videos of venues and services, as well as an RFP management system and lead generation tools.

“The pandemic reshaped how we source and plan events,” said Debbie Garcia, CMP, CEO and founder of virsitour. “We built this platform to give planners and suppliers smarter, more flexible tools to connect and create extraordinary events.”

Smart Meetings Says: Through its virtual site tours, virsitour saves meeting planners time and money and, since it features an RFP system and lead generation tools, makes the connection to venue suppliers that much more seamless

CEO and President of Visit Florida Announces Retirement

Dec. 10, 2024—Dana Young, president and CEO of Visit Florida, announced her retirement following six years of service to the state’s tourism marketing organization.

Under Young, tourism in Florida reached 140.6 million visitors in 2023, resulting in a $127.7 billion economic impact.

“Dana Young’s leadership at Visit Florida has been transformative, ensuring Florida remains the top destination for travelers. Her tireless dedication has created record-breaking and lasting success for Florida’s economy and tourism industry. We are grateful for her years of service and wish her the best in her retirement,” said J. Alex Kelly, Florida’s secretary of commerce.

Young also shared her thoughts on her time at Visit Florida, “I am so grateful to Governor DeSantis for the opportunity to lead Visit Florida for the past six years. I am very proud of the work we have done (and will continue to do) at Visit Florida, maximizing return on investment for Florida taxpayers. This has truly been the best job I have ever had, and I will miss my amazing team!”

Young will remain in her role until a new President and CEO is named.

Smart Meeting Says: Congratulations on your retirement, Dana Young! We wish you all the best. We are also excited for what is coming up next for Visit Florida!

Former Visit Atlantic City’s Vice President of Sales Passes Away

Dec. 10, 2024—Visit Atlantic City has released a statement regarding the death of Sandi Harvey, who previously served as the organization’s vice president of sales. Harvey’s Facebook page is filled with acknowledgments of the positive impact she had on her expansive network of friends, family and colleagues. Harry Hurley, WPG Talk Radio contributor, described Harvey in part as “unselfish, hardworking, loyal and a great wife, mother and grandmother.

Visit Atlantic City told the press, “The Visit Atlantic City organization is heartbroken and deeply saddened to announce that Sandi Harvey, the former vice president of sales for Visit Atlantic City, passed away from cancer over the weekend as her family gathered by her side. For over 25 years, Sandi worked tirelessly in the tourism and hospitality industry where she worked her way to the top as a female executive leading, mentoring and championing efforts in Atlantic City. She was a shining star and a bright light to everyone she met. This is a great loss to the organization, industry and community. Sandi retired from Visit Atlantic City in April 2023.”

Get Excited for the 2025 ESPA Conference in Louisville, Jan. 31 to Feb. 2

Dec. 9, 2024—The 2025 Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA) Annual Conference will take place in Louisville, Ky., Jan. 31 through Feb. 2. This year’s theme, “Delivering Championship Services,” captures ESPA’s mission to empower CVB, hotel, convention center and venue service event managers with the latest education and professional development opportunities as well as robust networking, and equips attendees with the tools to exceed client expectations.

Two celebrated hospitality industry leaders will address the attendees in a highly anticipated opening keynote, “Journey to the Winner’s Circle,” moderated by Lisa Bethea. CTA, CTIS, director of destination services at Visit Frisco. In this session, Cleo Battle, CEO of Louisville Tourism, and Al Hutchinson, president & CEO of Visit Baltimore, will share their leadership journeys and insight into overcoming challenges and embracing a championship mindset.

Further sessions will continue to dig into the “Winner’s Circle” theme, with another session featuring panelists including Amanda Benzine, associate director, Women’s Basketball, NCAA; Dean Jones, director of conferences and events, Religious Conference Management Association; Anthony Maggiore, senior director, conferences and meetings, American Academy of Physician Associates; and Amanda Stratton, meeting and event planner, enterprise procurement and supplier management, Humana; with PCMA chief marketing officer Traci DePuy. In this session, these industry leaders will explore best practices for producing successful events by working collaboratively with DMOs, hotels, venues and convention centers.

Further educational programming will include various breakout sessions, topic roundtables and a dedicated Leaders Program for directors and vice presidents of service, as well as networking opportunities with On the Road Workshops in Louisville, and participants can earn continuing education credits for the ESPC and to work towards earning or renewing the CMP credential.

For more on continuing education and the CMP credential, take a look at our CMP Spotlight Series.

The conference will also see professionals celebrated with awards including Event Service Professional of the Year, Executive Excellent, Meeting Professional of the Year and Leadership in Service.

Plus, attendees will enjoy a special evening at the Kentucky Derby Museum.

Those interested in attending can register on ESPA’s website.

SEARCH Foundation 2025 Board of Directors, Flagship Donor Initiatives Announced 

Nov. 26, 2024—The SEARCH Foundation, a 501(c)3 that assists event professionals in crisis, has announced its 2025 board of directors:

Chairwoman – Kate Patay, Terramar DMC
Vice Chair – David Lombardo, Lombardo’s Hospitality Group
Treasurer –  Frank Puleo, Framboise Catering
Secretary – Michele Polci, Caesars Entertainment
Immediate Past Chair – Rick Turner, Forward Hospitality Group
Crisis Relief Chair – Patrick McMichael
Executive Advisor – Joann Roth-Oseary, Someone’s in the Kitchen
Directors: Bobby Dutton – GBM6, Jodi Gold – Siagel Productions, Stephanie Jayko – Knockout Productions, India Rhodes – Wilkinson Rhodes, Kelly Treadway – EventCurious, Thomas Whelan – Access DMC, and JC York – Classic Entertainment

Board chair Kate Patay, of Terramar DMC, remarked, ‘We are excited to expand our reach with this capable team, especially after the recent back-to-back hurricanes that affected so many of our colleagues. Our ability to assist those in need will greatly benefit from the support of this board and our industry partners.”

After funding 100% of qualified cases this year, the SEARCH Foundation is gearing up for the new year by launching a #GivingTuesday initiative with the goal of 100 SEARCH 100 donors (a flagship program for donors who commit a minimum of $100 a month toward SEARCH’s important work).

Jamaica Tourist Board Launches Collaboration with Jamaica Travel Channel

Nov. 26, 2024—Jamaica Tourist Board has launched digital destination streaming in partnership with Jamaica Travel Channel, bringing content to over 250,000 monthly online viewers. “This partnership is in alignment with our mandate to increase awareness and bring heads to bed for the destination,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. “We welcome this addition to promote Jamaica to wider audiences that will increase our appeal as the ideal destination to visit.”

The channel will reside on JTB’s website, VisitJamaica.com, and provide both prospective travelers and travel professionals with valuable information on the destination and all it has to offer. Currently, Dunn’s River Falls, RIU Hotel, Couples Hotel, Jakes Hotel, Island Routes, Mystic Mountain and The Artisan Village in Falmouth are among the brands that have attached themselves to the project.

“We currently receive hundreds of emails monthly from tourists thanking us for our platform which acts as a guide for them while on island. Streaming the Jamaica Travel Channel online significantly boosts our visibility before travelers even arrive in Jamaica. With our unmatched showcase of hotels, excursions, and cultural experiences, the JTC is now Jamaica’s premiere social video influencer,” said Kimani Robinson, founder and director of Jamaica Travel Channel.

EIC Partners with Event Technology Company Gevme

Nov. 22, 2024—Events Industry Council (EIC) announced its partnership with Gevme, allowing EIC to expand its educational resources for the community of business professionals.

Gevme’s AI technology will be able to further event profs’ access to knowledge, providing updates and insights from EIC’s APEX and other industry resources. A main element of the partnership will be EIC’s use of Gevme’s Snapsight tool, a content summarization tool that analyzes sessions in real-time, pulls insights and generates comprehensive summaries and takeaways. So far, Snapsight has been used by more than 15,000 attendees.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gevme as our newest technology partner,” said EIC President and CEO Amy Calvert. “As EIC accelerates its digital transformation, our partnership will help us leverage Gevme’s cutting-edge capabilities to deliver more engaging, data-rich experiences that foster meaningful connections.”

Smart Meetings Says: This partnership between EIC and Gevme will be a major benefit for event professionals and their attendees. Through the use of Gevme’s AI tools, keeping attendees abreast of industry resources and engaged with post-event summaries at a quicker rate will be a breeze.

Peacock to Premiere Visit Myrtle Beach’s TV ‘Traveling the Spectrum’

Nov. 22, 2024—Visit Myrtle Beach plans to highlight the destination as a autism-friendly city in a new TV series “Traveling the Spectrum,” scheduled to air nationwide on Dec. 12 on NBCUniversal’s Peacock streaming service.

The show, created in partnership with Visit Myrtle Beach and The Workshop, follows three families with members on the autism spectrum as they take a vacation to the area.

“‘Traveling the Spectrum’ has the potential to change the world by helping families on the autism spectrum feel more comfortable exploring new destinations,” said Stuart Butler, chief marketing officer, Visit Myrtle Beach. “By following along on their vacations and hearing their personal stories, we see the unique challenges each family faces and how our community steps up to provide a welcoming, inclusive experience.”

To watch the trailer, visit travelingthespectrumshow.com.

Smart Meetings Says: Although not geared toward meeting professionals, “Traveling the Spectrum” can give them a better understanding of Myrtle Beach’s friendliness to neurodivergent attendees.

IBTM World 2024 Sees Business Boom

Nov. 21, 2024—This year’s IBTM World 2024 saw more than 73,000 pre-scheduled business meetings, an increase of over 19% from 2023. The number of visitors saw an increase of 10% and hosted buyers increased 18%, with the latter coming from more than 120 countries.

The event was held in RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka in Japan, a first for the property.

“It’s been an absolutely thrilling three days, not least because we were celebrating a very special 20th anniversary in Barcelona, which only enhanced the feeling of camaraderie and togetherness,” said Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition director.

“Our show didn’t disappoint. Between the phenomenal speakers with their captivating insights and ideas, our passionate exhibitors eager to engage, and the imaginative new initiatives designed to provide targeted and tangible support, it’s been an incredible gathering that reminds me just what a community we are in the events industry and how much we have to offer the world as a sector.”

Smart Meetings Says: An increase in international visitation at IBTM World 2024 marks a good sign for international business travelers, highlighting not only the numerical increase in international business but the value meeting professionals see in it.

PCMA Announced 2025 Class of “20 in Their 20s”

Nov. 19, 2024—Twenty emerging leaders in global business event professionals were selected for the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA)’s annual “20 in Their 20s” program. The 2025 class represents business event organizers and suppliers from PCMA regions, including APAC, Canada, EMEA and the United States.

From January 12-15, the class will be introduced at Convening Leaders 2025 (CL25) in Houston, Texas. “We are excited to celebrate the class of 2025, a remarkable group that exemplifies success, passion and dedication to shaping the future of the global business events industry,” said Meredith Rollins, PCMA chief community officer and executive director, PCMA Foundation. “As we mark the 11th year of this transformative program, we’re eager to honor their achievements and reconnect with alumni at Convening Leaders 2025.”

Winners receive a range of benefits, including a scholarship for CL25, free registration for EduCon 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky, a one-year complimentary PCMA membership. The class of 2025 includes Jillian Bowdring of Meet Boston, Sierra Davey of MCI USA and Kaylee Harris of Maritz.

Greater Miami Subsidized Cost for Green Key Global Memberships

Nov. 19, 2024—Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) was the first destination in the United States to offer hotel partners in the Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association 55% discounts on memberships and audit costs as part of a collaboration with Green Key Global to commit to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Green Key Global eco-rating certification, which is endorsed by both the American Hotel and Lodging Association and the Hotel Association of Canada, empowers hotels to enhance their sustainability practices, reduce waste and cut costs while providing a rating through certification of their efforts.

The announcement was made at GMCVB annual meeting where President and CEO David Whitaker reported that visitors contributed more than $20.6 billion to the local economy, an increase of almost 3%. Convention sales resulted in 406,000 room nights. Miami International Airport saw 10.6 million international visitor arrivals, a 9.6% increase and PortMiami is expected to exceed 7.3 million cruise passengers.

Visit California Launches Meetings-Focused Website

Nov. 15, 2024—Visit California has launched its new website dedicated to meetings and events. CaliforniaMeetings.com, created in partnership with California Meetings LLC, features 55 group-focused destinations throughout the state.

The website will link planners to destinations and highlight the state’s ability to host meetings and events.

“California’s diverse selection of destinations, unique venues, commitment to innovation, and attitude of possibility position it as the premier state for meetings,” says Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California. “Our local destination marketing organizations across the state are invaluable in providing insights and direction for planners of any size meeting or event, and CaliforniaMeetings.com makes it easier than ever to connect directly with those local organizations.”

Smart Meetings says: The new CaliforniaMeetings.com is a game charger for planners looking to host their event in California. For planners unfamiliar with what the Golden State has to offer, this is an amazing resource.

The Venetian and Pechanga Join Rewards Programs

Nov. 13, 2024—The Venetian Resort Las Vegas and Pechanga Resort Casino (just outside Temecula, California) launched a shared rewards program this week that affords guests of each resort access to benefits, amenities and casino club member perks. This includes exclusive invitations to events, promotions and special offers at each property.

Pechanga Resort guests already have access to attend Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Wave games, events at Pechanga Arena San Diego, SoFi Stadium and Intuit Dome.

Smart Meetings says: As attendees and planners increasingly look to collect loyalty points, look for more partnerships like this from independent properties to compete with big brands.

New Wellness Catalog from Body and Brain Wellness Features Immersive Experiences

Nov. 7, 2024—Body and Brain Wellness, an immersive wellness experiences provider for conventions, conferences, trade shows, workplaces and employee incentives across the United States and internationally, released a new catalog of multi-modal exercises, brain breaks and team building available at their retreat locations, as a pop-up on location or virtually. Corporate workplace wellness packages are also available.

Smart Meetings says: Infusing wellness into your event with stretching breaks is preferred by many audiences to a full hours scheduled at 6 a.m. No going to the room to change or setting an alarm after a late night required.

Visit Baltimore Celebrated Winning High-tech Bid for ASAE 2033

Nov. 7, 2024—At Visit Baltimore Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Meeting this week, President and CEO Al Hutchinson celebrated the successful bid for the 2033 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting and Exposition. The RFP response positioned Baltimore as the convention city of the future, complete with a virtual reality presentation, A.I. generated renderings of the city in 2033 and a robot dog, named Edgar.

Hutchinson also reported that in 2023, domestic travel generated $4 billion for Baltimore’s economy. “As we work to write the story of Baltimore’s future being driven by innovation, equity and sustainability, we continue to uplift our vibrant community, diverse small businesses and dedicated hospitality partners who are at the heart of making Baltimore a top destination for leisure visitors and meeting planners alike,” he said.

Smart Meetings says: AI is showing up in ways cute and transformative. Creating renderings of a future venue is a smart use of the generative technology.

Montage Boosts HR Initiatives to Attract Employees

Nov. 6, 2024—The luxury hotel management company Montage International introduced new human resources initiatives designed to attract and retain employees. Features focus on financial mental and social help.

• On-Demand Wages with DailyPay: This recently announced partnership empowers associates across the U.S. to access their earned wages, giving them the flexibility to manage their finances in real time (see formal release below).

• Commitment to Mental Health: Through Rula, colleagues receive comprehensive mental health services from affordable, in-network providers.

• Paid Sabbaticals: Eligible employees can take up to four weeks of paid leave to recharge and pursue personal interests, like volunteering, traveling or research.

• Hearts of Montage: A program where colleagues can serve the local community from children’s education and senior citizen care to environmental protection and education.

• The Compass Cup:  This annual ping pong tournament across all Montage and Pendry resorts and the corporate offices has fueled engagement and connectivity.

“We want our associates to be empowered, especially when it comes to their personal well-being,” said Mandy Holloway, executive vice president and chief people officer at Montage International.

Smart Meetings says: Any program that means we will arrive at our venues to find happy, fully-staffed teams is a win.

Ann Arbor is Michigan’s First ‘Destination Verified’ Community with Wheel the World

Nov. 4, 2024—Wheel the World, a global leader in accessible tourism, has classified the Ann Arbor area with its “Destination Verified” status. This status recognizes a destination’s demonstrated leadership in creating an inclusive and accessible destination for travelers of all abilities, and promotes inclusivity by ensuring visitors with physical, cognitive and invisible disabilities can trust that a destination with this status will provide an incredible travel experience. Participating businesses are listed on the Wheel the World platform, and have access to the Wheel the World Academy to engage in further training on accessibility best practices. Ann Arbor is the first destination in Michigan to earn this status.

Smart Meetings says: Travelers of all abilities know that Ann Arbor provides a holistically accessible travel experience, and planners organizing meetings know that all attendees of all abilities will have the access and resources they need for an outstanding experience. If planners want to learn more about the accessibility ratings of different destinations, they can look at Wheel the World’s platform to find destinations that meet their own and their attendees’ accessibility needs.

Caesars Entertainment, Inc. Enters into Definitive Agreement to Sell the LINQ Promenade

Nov. 1, 2024—On Tuesday, Caesars Entertainment announced its agreement to sell the LINQ Promenade to a future venture between TPG Real Estate (TPG) and the Investment Management Platform of Acadia Realty Trust (Acadia) for $275 million. The sale, which is subject to customary approvals and other closing conditions, is expected to be finalized in the fourth quarter of this year.

“The sale of the LINQ Promenade represents an accretive, non-core asset sale that will accelerate our debt reduction goals. I want to thank all the team members and the tenants of the LINQ Promenade for their partnership over the last 10 years and wish them continued success,” said Tom Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, Inc.

SF Travel and the Bay Area Host Committee Announce Partnership

Nov. 1, 2024—An innovative partnership between the Bay Area Host Committee (BAHC) and the San Francisco Travel Association, the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco, has been announced as part of BAHC’s Alliance Partner Program.

“San Francisco Travel is more than a partner, they are the ultimate city resource, working to promote San Francisco as one of the world’s premier tourism destinations,” said Zaileen Janmohamed, president & CEO of BAHC. “It’s an honor for the Bay Area Host Committee to help solidify San Francisco as the epicenter of sport culture with three major global sporting events taking place in the Bay in the next two years.”

The alliance, which allots San Francisco Travel an Executive Representative seat on the BAHC Advisory Board, will include efforts to increase sports events in the area, promote associated activations and confirm future events. Upcoming announcements regarding Superbowl LX and FIFA World Cup 2026 are expected to be released at a later date. Additional sports-related activations include:

• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art’s “Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture” exhibit, along with six sports-related companion exhibitions, features roughly 200 objects in different mediums showcased on several floors and runs through February 18.
• The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) will debut a “Love + Basketball” exhibit timed to next year’s NBA All-Star Game on view from Feb. 5 to March 2, 2025.
• NBA All-Star activations at Moscone Center and neighboring businesses will celebrate the event throughout the city.

Visit Dallas Celebrates Record Growth and Future Initiatives 

Nov. 1, 2024—This week Visit Dallas hosted their annual meetings with city leaders, tourism stakeholders and community members to look forward into 2025.

The event highlighted the upcoming FIFA World Cup 26th, the city’s new “Maverick, Can-Do Spirit” brand identity, as well as the winters of the Can-Do Spirit Awards.

In a recent study done by Tourism Economics Dallas welcomed 27 million visitors in 2023. Resulting in $10.5 billion in economic impact. In 2024, Visit Dallas booked over 2.4 million nights, resulting in over 2 billion dollars in economic impact.

“There’s so much on the horizon for our city – the expanding convention center, airport developments, hotel growth and the MICHELIN Guide Texas,” said Craig Davis, President and CEO of Visit Dallas. “Dallas truly is an emerging global city, and these developments hold incredible promise for our future.”

Smart Meeting says: Congratulations to the Visit Dallas team, on an amazing 2024! We can’t wait to see what more Dallas cooks up in 2025!

MGM Resorts International Donates $20K to Healing Center on Behalf of Meetings & Conventions Clients

Oct. 31, 2024—MGM Resorts International has announced a $20,000 donation to the Healing Center at St. Jude’s Ranch for Children as part of their Mindful Matters program. Mindful Matters is an event series that serves to spotlight the company’s commitment to mindfulness, wellness and community support.

St. Jude’s Ranch for Children is a residential campus that provides critical support to child victims of sex trafficking in order to help them emerge from their trauma as thriving members of their communities.

MGM Resorts International has partnered with Fit City Adventures to create the Mindful Matters event series, incorporating various wellness activities that serve to rejuvenate meetings and conventions professionals. “Our goal with the Mindful Matters series was to give our clients meaningful experiences that not only support their well-being but also contribute to the betterment of our community,” said Stephanie Glanzer, chief sales officer and senior vice president at MGM Resorts. “We are proud of the success of the series and that we are able to support the Healing Center by St. Jude’s Ranch for Children and the incredible work they’ll do.”

Hotel Workers Arrested Following Protest in Downtown San Francisco

Oct. 31, 2024—According to KTVU News, around 84 striking hotel workers and supporters were arrested during a protest near Union Square in San Francisco.

The protesters were arrested for blocking traffic that also included the cable car tracks. Protesters carried signs that read, “Bet on SF,” and chanted, “no contact, no peace”. After refusing to leave, the protesters were arrested and later released. The protest stems from the continued contract negotiations and hotel worker striker that began in September.

The workers attached to the protest are from San Francisco Marriott Union Square, the Grand Hyatt San Francisco Union Square and the Hilton San Francisco Union Square.Smart Meetings says: As planners continue to plan their events in San Francisco make sure to check with the Local Unite Here! 2 website for any updates around the strike and make sure your attendees are aware of the situation.

Excel London Acquires Business Design Centre

Oct. 30, 2024—Excel London, subsidiary of ADNEC Group, has completed the acquisition of BDCG Holdings Company, owner of Business Design Centre.

The North London venue features more than 64,000 sq. ft. of dedicated event and meeting space, and more than 130,000 sq. ft. of space for showrooms and offices.

After ADNEC’s acquisition of Excel in 2008, the venue has continued to expand and in 2010 became London’s first international convention center. Its recent expansion of 269,000 sq. ft. of MICE space has made Excel the largest conference venue in Europe at 1.35 million sq. ft. of space.

“Since acquiring Excel more than 15 years ago, ADNEC has demonstrated unwavering support for London’s event and business tourism industry,” said Jeremy Rees, CEO of Excel. “The acquisition of the prestigious BDC further underscores this commitment. We look forward to integrating BDC into the ADNEC ecosystem and will continue to invest significantly to ensure both Excel and BDC offer the highest-quality platforms for the events industry, reinforcing London’s status as a leading global events destination.”

Read about Excel London’s comprehensive sustainability strategy here.

Smart Meetings Says: Excel’s investment in the United Kingdom’s MICE industry will further cement the kingdom’s role and commitment to growth. For meeting professionals, this means more opportunities for meetings in London.

Chef Gordon Ramsay Brings Ramsay’s Kitchen to North Carolina

Oct. 30, 2024—Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel have partnered to bring Ramsay’s Kitchen to the Murphy, North Carolina, property in early 2025.

Ramsay’s Kitchen is expected to open along with the $275 million expansion of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River. The restaurant’s 12,000-square-foot layout will have the capacity to hold more than 190 attendees in its indoor space and outdoor rooftop terrace, as well as its private dining area.

“We’re incredibly excited to continue our partnership with the Ramsay team and introduce this new dining concept at our property,” said Lumpy Lambert, general manager of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel. “The cozy ambiance of the venue, paired with Chef Ramsay’s thoughtfully curated, internationally inspired menu will undoubtedly provide our guests with an unforgettable experience.”

Ramsay’s Kitchen is also stationed in Naperville, Illinois; Oklahoma City; Boston; St. Louis; and Las Vegas, its most recent opening in December 2022.

U.S. Airlines Required to Automatically Refund Passengers for Cancellations or Significant Delays

Oct. 29, 2024—On Monday, Oct. 28, the U.S. Department of Transportation passed a new rule requiring airlines in the United States to automatically process refunds to passengers if their flight is “canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept the significantly changed flight, rebooking on an alternative flight or alternative compensation.”

The rule specifies that airlines must refund a passenger the full, unused price of their ticket within seven days if passengers purchased the flight on a credit card, and within 20 calendar days for other forms of payment. In the case that only a portion of the trip was canceled, such as if a passenger’s connecting flight was canceled, airlines are not required to issue refunds for portions of the trip that the passenger had already flown.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg first presented the proposed rule in April 2024, and in the face of resulting backlash from the airline industry, communicated to airlines that they are responsible for making clear to passengers when they are entitled to a refund.

Smart Meetings says: This rule comes at an especially relevant time on the eve of the busy holiday travel season. For those who will travel throughout the holidays, as well as for frequent business travelers who fly year-round, this new rule holds airlines more accountable when people face major travel disruptions. Earlier iterations of this rule still required refunds, but new provisions make those refunds automatic, so passengers do not need to request a refund, and specify that those refunds must be made as the original form of payment rather than be covered by airline vouchers, points or credits if the passenger did not pay for their flight that way. This development eases burdens on travelers and is a move towards avoiding any undue financial burdens or additional stress that come along with major travel disruptions, ensuring travelers are fairly compensated for such disruptions.

“Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Announces $275 Million Transformation Project

Oct. 25, 2024—Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin announced its largest expansion to date.

In a project that will invest $275 million over the next couple of years, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin will add 120,000 sq. ft. of event space to its current floor plan, bringing its meeting space to 469,000 sq. ft. among the complex’s three buildings, Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve.

“We look forward to delivering such a major transformation for our customers. These enhancements will be a great addition to our iconic and award-winning operation,” said Area General Manager Sean Verney. “It positions our property to remain at the forefront of meeting and convention venues globally.”

This will be Walt Disney World Dolphin’s first major expansion since 2003. A new two-story building will be added, connecting to the hotel’s existing convention space; with this addition, 65,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose and foyer space will be on offer for meeting professionals. This project will break ground in November and is set for completion late summer 2026.

The existing 333,000 sq. ft. of meeting space at Swan and Dolphin is being modernized and equipped with new event technology. Walt Disney World Dolphin’s ballrooms and breakout spaces have recently completed an upgrade, and similar upgrades on the way at Swan, which are slated for completion by summer 2025. Walt Disney World Swan’s 349 guest rooms will also be enhanced and is slated for completion this year.

Smart Meetings Says: This exciting development is part of a wider trend in Orlando. We are seeing an increase in elevated adult experiences versus family-focused travel, with projects such as expansions, renovations and new builds leading the way.

AHLA Foundation Awards 2025 Hospitality Scholarships

Oct. 24, 2024—The AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), announced it has distributed nearly one million dollars in scholarship funding for students at hospitality programs around the United States. The Foundation distributed a total of $944,000 among 369 students across 88 different colleges and universities, as well as over $30,000 to more than 20 students as part of an incoming Freshmen scholarship pilot program. Three community colleges participated in the pilot program to increase interest and enrollment within their hospitality programs: Frederick Community College, Northampton Community College and Valencia College.

AHLA Foundation awards two types of scholarships: self-nominated, which allows students to apply directly to be considered for one of eight scholarships regardless of where they attend school; and school-nominated, which is restricted to one of the 67 schools affiliated with the AHLA Foundation.

Since its creation in 1953, AHLA Foundation has dispersed over $16 million in academic scholarships, providing access to education for thousands of future industry leaders.

Smart Meetings says: Programs such as this expand access to opportunity for individuals who have demonstrated commitment to the industry for their future careers. By supporting hospitality students today, we support the industry leaders of tomorrow, and ensure that this fantastic industry continues to grow, evolve, and become ever-better.

Global DMC Partners Releases 2024 Global Destination Index

Oct. 24, 2024—Global DMC Partners has released its 2024 Global Destination Index, highlighting the world’s most popular meeting and incentive destinations. The list is based on leads and RFPs in 2024, and Global DMC’s partners.

The Top 10 U.S. and International MICE for 2024 are:

Top 10 U.S.                                       

1. Chicago, IL
2. Washington, D.C.
3. New York, NY
4. Las Vegas, NV
5. Nashville, TN
6. Dallas, TX
7. Miami, FL
8. Orlando, FL
9. Austin, TX
10. San Diego, CA

Top 10 International

1. Paris, France
2. Barcelona, Spain
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
4. London, England
5. Lisbon, Portugal
6. Athens, Greece
7. Madrid, Spain
8. Vienna, Austria
9. Rome, Italy
10. Berlin, Germany

“It’s interesting to see the new destinations that have made this year’s list, as well as the changing order in popularity of the top 10, particularly as our industry is a great indicator of the world’s economic strength and where the most business is being done,” said Global DMC Partners President and CEO Catherine Chaulet. “We’ve also seen an increased interest in secondary destinations with an uptick in leads for 2024 or 2025, as compared to prior years.”

Smart Meetings Says: A greater interest in these destinations could mean more development via increased spending and thus more opportunities to create memorable experiences for corporate groups.

Clarion Launches Events Collaborative

Oct. 24, 2024—Clarion Events, the world’s largest privately owned event and exhibition organizer, has debuted The Clarion Events Collaborative to partner with associations that host revenue-producing events.

The offering, according to a press release, provides associations “a unique experience partnering with a for-profit organization.” Associations “gain access to vast knowledge and experience, ensuring their events are successful, memorable, and impactful. This will deliver increased ROI for members while associations maintain ownership interest [and can] focus on their core mission, vision, and values while Clarion Events handles the complexities of event strategy and management and partners for meaningful community engagement.”

Clarion’s move builds on years of work done for associations as varied as International Consumer Technology Association for IFA Berlin consumer and electronic show and the Indian Gaming Association’s Tradeshow and Convention in San Diego.
Chris Brown, principal at Level Up Event Strategies, will lead the effort along with Liz Irving, president of Clarion Events North America.

“The partnerships they have built in North America and globally,” said Brown of Clarion, “are a true testament to their understanding of what it takes to form a successful association partnership and professionalism within the events they deliver.

Smart Meetings Says: The initiative gives associations the potential to enhance the revenue and impact of their tradeshow events.

Marriott International and MGM Resorts to Launch W Las Vegas

Oct. 21, 2024—Marriott International and MGM Resorts International have announced plans to convert Delano Las Vegas to W Las Vegas on the Mandalay Bay campus.

Scheduled to complete its conversion later this year, this follows the two brands’ strategic licensing agreement, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, that was announced July 2023. This conversion will add the property to the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio.

“Our relationship with Marriott has far exceeded our expectations, demonstrating the power of its brand portfolio and the strength of their distribution channels,” said Steve Zanella, president of MGM Resorts Operations. “W Las Vegas, the latest hotel to come to life as part of our collaboration, will allow our guests to access a new luxury lifestyle experience recognized worldwide for its distinct personality, dynamic programming and elevated service culture.”

Baha Mar Unveils Expansion Plans with New Beachfront Resort and Residences

 Baha Mar has announced its expansion plans to add a fourth location to its “luxury of choice” collection at Cable Beach in The Bahamas. The resort will be designed by Fosters + Partners, and its 25,000 sq. ft. of dedicated meetings and events space will be situated on 12 beachfront acres. An additional 14,000 sq. ft. spa and fitness center will include luxury retailers, pools, an outdoor bar, entertainment lounges and family amenities.

Graeme Davis, president of Baha Mar, said of the development, “Baha Mar is committed to creating spectacular experiences, and this $350 million capital investment in our world-class resort collection underscores Baha Mar’s role as a catalyst for continued economic growth and job creation in the Bahamas. We are grateful to the government of The Bahamas for their continued support and our collaborative partnership in bringing this new development to life.”

The resort will offer 350 rooms, 50 luxury branded residences, a 10,000 sq. ft. ballroom, access to the $200 million luxury waterpark Baha Bay and numerous top-tier services.

Visit West Hollywood Launches 40th Anniversary Campaign

Oct. 17, 2024—Today, Visit West Hollywood announced the launch of its 40^th anniversary campaign, titled “Iconic. Forever.” The campaign will include a partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue, with elements including a dedicated campaign across Saks’ digital channels and window displays at the retailer’s flagship New York store that depict West Hollywood’s culture and international influence. The collaboration runs from October 16 to October 29.

The campaign will focus on five elements that have long defined West Hollywood: culinary, wellness, retail, inclusivity and entertainment. There will also be sweepstakes for 40 West Hollywood hotel nights.

“This milestone represents four decades of boundary-breaking innovation and community,” states Tom Kiely, president and CEO of Visit West Hollywood. “West Hollywood’s future is brighter than ever, and we’re thrilled to celebrate with Saks, a brand that embodies the same forward-thinking and iconic status that we strive for.”

Destination DC Announces Expanded Washington, DC Special Agent Academy

Oct. 17, 2024—Destination DC (DDC) has announced the expansion of its training platform for travel agents, tour operators and local hospitality workers. The training will provide additional knowledge and tools for best promoting Washington, DC as a top-tier travel destination.

The Washington, DC Special Agent Academy combines essential DC knowledge with in-depth reviews of neighborhoods, festivals and landmarks. Students, or “Special Agents,” as they are referred to by DDC, will complete designated missions and access exclusive discounts, potential prizes and support from DDC’s Tourism, Sports and Visitor Experience team.

Current modules are presented in English, with an additional seven languages being added over the coming months as part of a wider international effort to promote Washington, DC. “We know there’s Only One Washington, DC, and we want to share that message with consumers and hospitality professionals,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. “The training tools will help us enhance the knowledge, image and perception of Washington, DC as we focus on growing DC’s global visitor market share and set our city apart.”

The Special Agent Academy is available on LearnUpon, a new learning management system noted for its user-friendly platform.

Four Seasons Launches Lucid Partnership with Exclusive Event

Oct. 17, 2024—On Tuesday, Four Seasons celebrated its partnership with the electronic vehicle company Lucid at Four Seasons Hotel Miami private event. Attendees included actor and entrepreneur Aaron Paul, Four Seasons President and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Reynal, Lucid Chief Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer Peter Rawlinson.

The collaboration will offer Four Seasons guests flexible and sustainable experiences, such as complimentary Lucid vehicle driving experiences, chauffeured Lucid house cars and electric charging stations available at participating Four Seasons properties, including Four Seasons Hotel Miami and Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale.

Ian Edwards, Celtic Manor Resort CEO, Dies

Oct. 16, 2024—The Celtic Collection has announced the passing of Ian Edwards, after a bout of illness.

Edwards was the CEO of Celtic Manor Resort and ICC Wales. With more than 40 years of industry experience, who not only was leader in growing Celtic Manor Resort but was also behind the recent expansion of The Celtic Collection, which has become Wales’ largest independent hotel group. Edwards was also a master innholder, a fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and served on the boards of Visit Britain and Western Gateway.

“Ian Edwards will be remembered as a visionary leader whose contributions to the hospitality sector have left a lasting legacy in Wales and beyond,” said Simon Gibson, CBE, board member of Celtic Manor Resort. “His dedication, warmth, and innovative spirit will continue to inspire the industry for years to come.

“His leadership and delivery of large-scale projects, such as the Ryder Cup and the NATO Summit, stand as a testament to his strategic vision and his ability to elevate Wales globally. Growing Celtic Manor Resort into a collection of successful hotels was another hallmark of his remarkable career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the leading figures in the UK hospitality industry.

“Ian was known not just for his business acumen but also for his people-centered leadership. He often credited his successes to the hardworking teams he led, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence in the sector. His vision extended beyond business, as he also revitalized the local community through his role in initiatives such as the ReNewport Task Force and the Business in the Community Place Programme.

“Ian will be greatly missed by colleagues and friends, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family.”

Atlanta Named Super Bowl LXII Host

Oct. 15, 2024—The fourth Super Bowl hosted in Atlanta will be held at the Georgia Dome in 2028, thanks to a bid orchestrated by the Atlanta Sports Council in collaboration with the Atlanta Falcons, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia World Congress Center Authority, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, City of Atlanta and the State of Georgia.

Atlanta hosted the 1994, 2000 and 2019 Super Bowl competitions, and is gearing up for a particularly impressive series of global sporting events, including the College Football Playoff National Championship and MLB All-Star Game in 2025, FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the NCAA Men’s Final Four in 2031.

“Atlanta is thrilled to host Super Bowl XLII and welcome fans from across the NFL to our city,” said William Pate, president and CEO, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. “It’s an honor to host this prestigious event in our city for the fourth time and showcase what makes us the leader in hosting championship events.”

Abu Dhabi Set to Be Next Sphere Location

Oct. 15, 2024—Sphere Entertainment Co. and the Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi have announced that they will work together to bring the second Sphere to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

“The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement is a significant milestone toward that goal,” said James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment. “Sphere is redefining live entertainment and extending the reach of its transformative impact. We are proud to collaborate with DCT Abu Dhabi to develop Sphere in their city.”

The first Sphere opened in Las Vegas in 2023 and has since been the venue for concerts, short films and the highest-grossing UFC fight in history.

A date has not been set for construction.

Smart Meetings Says: More entertainment venues around the world offer meeting professionals and their attendees more chances to engage in memorable experiences.

Gary/Chicago International Airport Hosts Critical Infrastructure Groundbreaking Ceremony

Oct. 11, 2024—The Gary/Chicago International Airport (GCIA) held a ceremonial groundbreaking on October 8 to celebrate the first phase of a substantial expansion of the airport’s critical air cargo sector. A $24 million infrastructure enhancement of the airport was announced at the event, which includes a fuel pipeline project, new sanitary sewer system, deicing facility and new cargo logistics apron.

“This is a pivotal step to securing the future of our increasingly important air cargo offering, with these infrastructure investments made possible by the past several years’ of increasing cargo sector growth,” said Dan Vicari, executive director of the Gary/Chicago International Airport. “We are immensely grateful for the partnership of Congressman Mrvan, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and the State of Indiana for their continued support for our airport and its ability to fuel the local economy.”

Smart Meetings Says: These upgrades to GCIA are a continuation of ongoing efforts, which began in 2015 with the expansion of the airport’s main runway.

ICCA and BestCities Announce 2024 Incredible Impacts Program Finalists

Oct. 10, 2024—The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and BestCities Global Alliance have announced the three international associations that have made it to the final round of competition for a $20,000 grant through their 2024 Incredible Impacts Program at the ICCA Congress later this month. The grant competition focuses on innovative thinking and creativity, with the winning organization selected based on its success in its field and its “proven impact in shaping a better world,” says ICCA. The three finalists are:

International Hip Preservation Society: An association centered on expanded treatment options for lower-income families across Africa. Currently, its focus is on constructing hip preservation hubs for patients of all ages across the continent.

European Academy of Childhood Disability: The association began its EACD+ program to improve the lives of those with childhood-onset disabilities through access to sports, culture and technology. Its future goals are to expand its host destinations and create an Impact Creation Task Force that focuses on raising awareness and advocacy, as well as positively impacting future inclusive policies throughout Europe.

World Association of News Publishers: This association works to increase civic engagement and build better-informed societies. Following a project to identify “news values” criteria in order to assist news organizations in reaching younger audiences, WAN-IFRA, as the association is commonly known, intends to extend its global outreach while including vulnerable populations such as women and immigrants.

The ICCA Congress will be held October 20–23 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and will feature presentations from all three associations, with winners selected by a final score tallied by both a jury and an audience. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, said of the competition, “Incredible Impacts helps shine a light on the valuable work organizations do to expand and improve the legacy associations bring to host destinations, and it’s crucial that we support these efforts, which not only strengthen our industry but positively impact the communities we visit.”

Smart Meetings Says: We love learning about impactful programs affecting real-world change despite inevitable challenges. We congratulate all the contestants on their nominations.

Balboa Travel and Edward Perotti, CMP CMM Partner to Offer Expanded Meeting and Event Services

Oct. 8, 2024—Travel management company Balboa Travel has announced a new partnership with Edward Perotti, CMP CMM. The collaboration will offer meeting profs innovative meetings and events solutions for their gatherings, large or small.

“This partnership is a game changer in the industry,” said Stephen Thomas-Schulere, senior vice president, Strategic Solutions at Balboa Travel. “Combining our management expertise and location sourcing power with Edward Perotti’s unique vision and ability to deliver memorable and emotional experiences puts us on the cutting edge of customized event management for everything from intimate gatherings to large conferences.”

Balboa offers its clients a matching service for meeting profs and venues, with over 300,000 international hotels, resorts and conference centers to choose from.

“In today’s environment, it’s critical to bring the right people and technology to the table,” said Thomas-Schulere. “We’re meeting the moment for our clients, whether their events are driven by a unique corporate culture, sustainability goals, philanthropy or personalization at scale, the right people and platforms ensure the best event, at any size or budget.”

Smart Meetings Says: This new partnership between Balboa Travel and Edward Perotti, CMP CMM is shaping up to be a major resource for meeting profs.

St. Maarten’s Airport Launches Advanced Border Control System with Digital Entry Form

Oct. 3, 2024—Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) will launch a state-of-the-art automated border control system beginning on Oct. 8, 2024. As of Oct. 8, passengers will be required to visit www.entry.sx and complete their documentation ahead of their travel. In the future, the system will include biometric integration, so passengers can use their biometrics to clear border control. Further phases of the project will include Advance Passenger Information Systems and Passenger Name Record Systems. All phases meet General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) standards and data privacy protection for travelers.

PJIAE launches the new system out of a collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication (TEATT). Minister of TEATT, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, says, “With improved data collection and analysis, the airport, and the Ministry of TEATT will be able to enhance their services, adapt to current trends, and further contribute to the development and prosperity of our country.”

Minister of Justice, Lyndon Lewis says, “This project aims to streamline the passenger registration process by introducing the necessary digital equipment, along with a user-friendly website where individuals entering the country can conveniently register their information beforehand and be processed by Immigration. By providing this digital platform, the Ministry of Justice will have the necessary tools to carry out their vital duties more efficiently, ensuring the safety and well- being of our nation.”

The system is part of an ongoing reconstruction project that includes a full renovation of the airport.

Smart Meetings says: The new system is one of many to emerge that shows the increasing digitalization of travel and documentation for visitors traveling internationally. It will streamline the travel experience of those visiting St. Maarten and provide an experience that is both more efficient and more secure. With St. Maarten being an ever-popular destination for the MICE industry, business event travelers attending meetings, events and incentives in the country should be made aware of the changes they’ll encounter after Oct. 8 and beyond so they know to digitally complete their travel documentation ahead of their travel at www.entry.sx, and any other steps they may need to take for future phases, which planners can include in pre-event communications.

New Partnership Between SITE Global and Soundings Offers Meeting Profs Benefits in Incentive Travel Industry

Oct. 3, 2024—A new partnership between SITE Global and Soundings was announced today, combining SITE’s incentive travel expertise with Soundings’ innovative talent development approach. Benefits include providing meeting profs with new knowledge, tools and networks that will keep them up to date in an ever-evolving market. “SITE’s partnership with Soundings enables us to expand our community and provide meaningful education on the incentive industry to a broader audience,” said Annette Gregg, CEO, SITE Global. “As we engage the next generation of talent, authenticity and a sense of purpose become even more significant.”

The key benefits outlined in the announcement of the new partnership are access to comprehensive learning and development, expanded networks and opportunities, and access to specialized research and insights.

Smart Meetings Says: IMEX attendees will have the chance to learn more about this new resource by visiting the SITE Global stand, F317.

Net Zero Carbon Events Joins Global Climate Action Portal

Oct. 2, 2024—Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE), a global initiative to unite the business events industry in reducing carbon emissions across the sector, has officially joined the Global Climate Action Portal (GCAP), a platform that tracks and showcases the progress of climate commitments made by state and non-state entities. The GCAP platform provides transparency and accountability as it presents the progress of Cooperative Climate Initiatives. This move follows NZCE’s earlier commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and alignment with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

James Rees, president of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), says,  “The inclusion of Net Zero Carbon Events in the Global Climate Action Portal is a major milestone, as it strengthens our relationship with the UNFCCC and, most importantly, enhances the accountability of NZCE, now recognized as our industry’s prime initiative to address climate change. By reporting our progress through GCAP, we are ensuring greater transparency and showcasing the collective achievements of our stakeholders.”

As NZCE approaches the end of its first annual reporting cycle, coming up in December 2024, NZCE calls on all signatories who joined the initiative by the end of 2023 to fulfil their reporting obligations. Alexander Alles, executive director of JMIC, says, “These reports will be essential in demonstrating the event industry’s progress toward reducing carbon emissions and achieving net zero targets.”

Smart Meetings says: NZCE’s move to join GCAP will hold it accountable to its goals as GCAP tracks its real-world progress, demonstrating the crucial role of accountability when it comes to tackling climate change. NZCE leads by example with this move at a moment when it calls on its signatories to fulfill their reporting obligations alongside, and this call additionally demonstrates the importance of collective action in the global fight against climate change.

Association Forum Announces the 2024 Class of Forty Under 40

Oct. 1, 2024—The 2024 Class of Forty Under 40, which celebrates recipients’ career accomplishments, commitment to the industry and their continued pursuit to advance the professional practice of association management, has been unveiled by Association Forum. Winners including Ellen Zimmerman, Sandra Schueller and Andrea Schmidl will be celebrated during the 2024 Holiday Showcase – Amplify on December 4-5, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.

“Association Forum proudly unveils this year’s cohort of changemakers, an extraordinary group that ignites inspiration across our community. These leaders exemplify the essence of new power leadership, leveraging their innovative mindset and intrapreneurial drive to push boundaries and reshape the industry,” says Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, President and CEO of Association Forum.

VAI Resort Announces Grand Opening will Include a State-of-the-Art Convention Center

Oct. 1, 2024—The highly-anticipated VAI Resort, a hotel, culinary and live entertainment destination set to open in 2025 in metro Phoenix, announces plans for a state-of-the-art convention center. The VAI Resort Convention Center will bring over 150,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, featuring 34 customizable room configurations, which enables the convention center to host multiple, simultaneous events. Throughout the venue, attendees will enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, and planners will find highly modernized audiovisual technology throughout all meeting space, with world-class sound, visuals and presentation support. The entire venue is designed with accessibility top-of-mind to ensure it meets the needs of attendees and visitors of all abilities. The convenient underground valet service, as well as additional parking in an adjacent garage, ensure that all exhibitors and attendees joining a meeting or event can access the venue easily.

Planners will be thrilled with the on-site, dedicated event planning team that will work closely alongside them to ensure a seamless event experience and bring out the best of the convention center suited to the unique needs of each event. The VAI Resort Convention Center is another exciting addition to the eagerly-awaited resort, which will offer 1,100 guest rooms and an 11,000+ capacity amphitheater. Its culinary program, rooted in locally-sourced ingredients and regional products to create global favorites, will offer customizable experiences from intimate dining gatherings to large group feasts.

Rian Kirkman, senior vice president of marketing at VAI Resort, says, “Meetings at VAI offer a truly unique experience. Along with state-of-the-art technology and versatile meeting spaces in our Conference Center, we provide unforgettable outdoor venues like Konos Island and the VAI Amphitheater, ensuring attendees will always remember their time here. With 1,100 rooms, 12 restaurants, entertainment venues, a spa, and the Mattel Theme Park, everything is conveniently located in one place—making it a dream for meeting planners.”

OCCC Brings Nearly $4 Billion in Economic Impact to Central Florida, According to New Study

Sept. 30, 2024—According to a new study conducted by PFM Consulting Group, the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) generates $3.9 billion annually, supporting 28,100 jobs and benefitting 1,200 local businesses.

PFM Consulting Group conducted its study based on data through 2023, and found that in 2023, the OCCC brought a total economic impact of $3.9 billion through direct, indirect and induced impacts. The study also found that 28,100 individuals are employed both directly and indirectly through activity at OCCC and an estimated 1,200 local businesses depend on the OCCC’s event activity fully or partially. The facilities directly supported by convention center activities, such as hotels, restaurants, offices and more, generate about $28.9 million in tax revenue for Orange County schools.

In recent years, the study found, the OCCC has averaged nearly 200 events that attracted an estimated 1.5 million attendees annually.

“The positive economic and fiscal impact made by the OCCC over time through a strong clientele base, sustained investment in facilities and ongoing competitive improvements in the convention and visitor experience have contributed to the development of many service industries throughout the region,” says Stan Geberer, senior managing consultant at PFM Group Consulting. “We are pleased to report the substantial gains in economic contribution and government revenue made by the Center in this post-COVID era which exceed the value of contributions made prior to the pandemic.”

OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester says, “We are steadfast in our mission of being an economic engine for the Central Florida region and infusing our local economy with new business and tourism opportunities,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “This study confirms that we are working in alignment with our mission and that the business conducted at The Center of Hospitality is positively impacting Orange County communities.”

Caesars New Orleans Tower to Open This Fall

Sept. 27, 2004—The former Harrah’s site in New Orleans has been revitalized with the upcoming debut of the new 340-room, 15-floor Caesars New Orleans tower this fall. Caesars Entertainment has invested $435 million in this project, which includes a 54-room Nobu Hotel and Nobu Restaurant, along with an upgraded Harrah’s Tower. With a total of 790 rooms and suites, this venue will offer meeting profs a premier destination for events. Guests can enjoy a refreshed hotel lobby experience and a reception area accommodating up to 700 people.

Additionally, the former Masquerade nightclub will reopen as Octavia this summer, providing attendees with a vibrant spot to unwind after a day of meetings. Hotel guests will also have a view of the Caesars Superdome, which recently underwent $500 million in renovations and will host the 2025 Super Bowl, along with offering 162,434 sq. ft. of meeting space.

Smart Meetings Says: Caesars Entertainment venues have long been recognized as top choices for meeting professionals, and this latest addition is set to be an excellent option for events in the Big Easy.

Hosts Global Adds Chansay Events to Global Alliance, Expands to Napa and Sonoma

Sept. 26, 2024—The DMC Hosts Global has expanded its Global Alliance to include Chansay Events, based in Napa and Sonoma. The new addition specializes in corporate events and incentive group travel experiences in California’s wine country, granting Hosts Global access to a top-tier destination for meeting profs. Kurt Paben, CEO of Hosts Global said of the development, “We are excited to welcome Chansay Events to the Hosts Global Alliance. Napa and Sonoma are premier destinations, and Chansay’s deep local expertise and commitment to excellence perfectly align with our mission of creating legendary moments for our clients. This partnership strengthens our ability to offer extraordinary, tailored experiences in one of the most beautiful and iconic regions in the world.”

Napa and Sonoma are highly sought-after locations for events and incentives, with their stunning landscapes and memorable experiences such as vineyard tours, hot air balloon trips and horseback riding. Chansay Events brings mastery of the best the region has to offer; CEO Sarah Carter told the press, “Our passion for this region drives everything we do, and we are committed to providing clients with unforgettable experiences that capture the true spirit of wine country. With Hosts Global’s support, we’re excited to elevate our offerings and deliver even more exceptional events.”

Smart Meetings Says: With the addition of both Sena DMC & PCO based in Iceland and now Chansay Events in California’s wine country, Hosts Global’s offerings to meeting profs are expanding to include some of the top destinations in the industry.

Las Vegas Conventions and Visitor Authority Achieves GOLD level Certification for Sustainable Standards

Sept. 25, 2024—The Events Industry Council has announced that Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) has been awarded GOLD level certification to the EIC Sustainable Events Standards.

“Achieving GOLD level certification under the EIC Sustainable Event Standards is a significant accomplishment for the LVCC,” says Brian Yost, chief operating officer of the LVCVA. “This certification reflects our commitment to sustainability and our proactive approach to minimizing the environmental impact of our operations, while hosting many of the world’s most significant tradeshows and events. ”

The EIC Sustainable Events Standards focus around areas of organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management, diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact.

Smart Meetings says: Congratulations to Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) for achieving this amazing recognition for all the work done to make the meeting industry a better and impactful place.

San Francisco Travel Appoints New President and CEO

Sept. 24, 2024—San Francisco Travel Association has announced the appointment of Anna Marie Presutti as President and CEO. Presutti has served as San Francisco Travel’s interim President and CEO since mid-May of this year. 

“After an extensive search that spanned the country, the Executive Search Committee realized the best candidate was already in the job. Anna Marie is the ultimate champion of San Francisco and a bold, experienced leader,” says San Francisco Travel Board Chair John Anderson. “As a two-time SF Travel Board Chair, Anna Marie is deeply familiar with the organization, its customers and its culture, and her continued leadership will drive the marketing and awareness of this destination.”

Prior to working for San Francisco Travel, Presutti was Vice President and General Manager of Hotel Nikko San Francisco.

Presutti is San Francisco Travel’s first female CEO.

Smart Meeting says:  Anna Marie Presutti is a 2023 Smart Women Award Winner. The Smart Meetings team is over the moon and can’t wait to see what Anna Marie cooks up at San Francisco Travel in the future!

The Walter E. Washington Convention Center Awarded LEED Platinum Green Building Certification

Sept. 23, 2024—The Walter E Washington Convention Center has announced that it has been awarded LEED Platinum. 

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which was developed by the U.S> Green Building Council (USGBC) is the most used green building rating system in the world.

“Achieving LEED Platinum took a lot of hard work, but we strive to be the greatest Convention Center in the world and have the highest quality of service for our customers,” says Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “I am thrilled to add our LEED Platinum certification to the city’s roster and make Washington, DC a leader in LEED-certified spaces. I thank the Events DC team for working tirelessly to execute on our commitment to sustainability and excellence.”

The LEED award follows The Walter E. Washington Convention Center creating practical and measurable strategies such as sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.

Smart Meetings says:  Sustainability and promoting green measures are important to meeting planners as well as their clients. The more venues like The Walter E Washington Convention Center institute green policies the better our events and the world becomes.

Hosts Global Welcomes Sena DMC & PCO, Expanding DMC Services to Iceland

Sept. 19, 2024—The international DMC Hosts Global has added Sena DMC & PCO to its top-tier Hosts Global Alliance. With this partnership, Hosts Global is now able to offer its services in a new, highly in demand destination: Iceland.

Based in Reykjavik, Sena DMC & PCO was established over 20 years ago and focuses on unique corporate events, incentive programs and conferences for international clients, with a specialization in luxury travel and gatherings. Sandra Ýr Dungal from Sena DMC & PCO said, “Joining the Hosts Global Alliance is a tremendous opportunity for us to bring Iceland’s magic to a broader audience. Our team is passionate about delivering unforgettable events that go beyond the ordinary, blending Iceland’s natural wonders with cutting-edge event production.”

Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, and has become a top destination for many international travelers. Its robust infrastructure and impressive venues also appeal to meeting profs, and both combine for an excellent option for incentives, conferences, exec meetings and more. “Iceland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for corporate events and incentives, and Sena’s ability to blend Iceland’s natural wonders with innovative event design will undoubtedly help us meet the growing demand for unforgettable experiences in this extraordinary destination,” said Robert Lee, vice president of sales and alliance engagement at Hosts Global.

Smart Meetings Says: This new addition to Hosts Global could help cement Iceland as a top meetings and events location.

Mandarin Oriental, New York Receives GSTC Certification

Sept. 16, 2024—Mandarin Oriental, New York, is the first hotel in North America to receive the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification, which demonstrates the hotel’s commitment towards sustainability and corporate responsibility. GSTC is an independent non-profit organization and an international global authority that acknowledges businesses that have demonstrated exceptional sustainable business management alongside preservation and maximization of socioeconomic, cultural and environmental impacts. Mandarin Oriental, New York underwent a comprehensive assessment and onsite audit conducted by UCSL United Certification Systems Limited, a GSTC-accredited certification body, to receive the certification, and has achieved it just a week prior to Climate Week NYC.

The hotel’s sustainable initiatives that led to this recognition include the elimination of single-use plastics, waste reduction and energy efficiency leading to a reduced carbon footprint and social impact initiatives that engage the local community, such as support of City Harvest to provide food for the local homeless population. The hotel also demonstrates a commitment to responsible procurement from certified suppliers that comply with the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group’s code of conduct, such as not including menu items that are part of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Endangered Seafood List throughout all food & beverage offerings. The complimentary, fully electric Mercedes Benz EQ450+ house car is a complimentary service that not only maintains excellent guest service but further minimizes the hotel’s carbon dioxide emissions.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has committed to implementing GSTC Criteria across the organization, and a total of 15 Mandarin Oriental hotels have received the GSTC Certification. further information regarding the Group’s sustainability efforts can be found in its Sustainability Report.

Smart Meetings Says: As sustainability continues to hold the attention of travelers across both the business travel and leisure sectors, certifications such as this identify hotels and meeting venues that are top options for conscientious planners and travelers who want their dollars to support sustainable travel and who seek to reduce their carbon footprints. As the first hotel in North America to receive this certification, Mandarin Oriental, New York is identified as leader in sustainable luxury hospitality and an example of the industry’s increasing recognition of traveler’s desires for sustainability in their chosen hotels and meeting venues.

Hospitality Today Live to Host First International Hospitality Student’s Day

Sept. 13, 2024—Hospitality Today Live has unveiled the first International Hospitality Student’s Day.

Hosted hospitality veteran and creator of Hospitality Today Live’s broadcast show Deborah Gardner and Gecko Hospitality’s Jeremy Nickols, this one-day event will feature conversations hospitality leaders across numerous sectors, including F&B, meetings and events, technology, travel and tourism, hotels and resorts, entertainment and more.

The show will be hosted by Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Oct. 4, 2024, at 8:45 a.m.-5:45 p.m. EST on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

“This unique event will provide an exceptional platform for the industry to connect with and support our emerging leaders while offering invaluable opportunities for students to engage with today’s industry pioneers,” says Dr. Lorie A. Tuma, associate professor of hospitality and tourism management.

New Orleans is Open for Business Post Hurricane Francine

Sept. 12, 2024—New Orleans & Company has released an update following Hurricane Francine.

The Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport (MSY) is open and operational. The airport’s terminal facility and runway suffered no significant damage. Normal operations are expected to resume for airlines as well. Passengers are advised to check directly with the airlines regarding flight information. Visit www.flymsy.com/airlines for more information.

New Orleans is scheduled to have several events including NOLAxNOLA, Taylor Swift’s Era Tour, the National Fried Chicken Festival and so much more!

To find the latest updates from New Orleans visit www.neworleans.com/updates.

Smart Meetings says: For planners with meetings and events scheduled in New Orleans in the coming weeks this is exciting news! It is also important for planners to know what information is necessary for planners to provide to their attendees who are scheduled to fly into MSY.

Caesars Entertainment Expands Wellness Offerings to Atlantic City Properties

Sept. 11, 2024—After introducing healthy alternatives to meeting planners at Caesars properties in Las Vegas, the company is officially expanding its wellness menu of healthy F&B, speakers and activation options to Caesars Atlantic City, Harrah’s Atlantic City and Tropicana Atlantic City.

Recent investments of $400 million in the properties along the boardwalk on the New Jersey Shore included the opening of three stories of Nobu rooms in Caesars Atlantic City, a new arrival experience and rooftop pool. Harrah’s Resort and Tropicana Atlantic City are also getting room renovations and new restaurants.

“Innovation is at the core of our culture at Caesars Entertainment and creating a wellness initiative was a natural for us because, as company, we are passionate about wellness,” said Kelly Gleeson Smith, vice president of sales with Caesars Entertainment National Meetings & Events. “In seeing the uptick in demand for wellness, we saw an opportunity to expand these offerings especially with all the new upgrades and opportunities in Atlantic City. Now we ensure our clients at all our Atlantic City properties can offer on-trend options to their attendees.”

Smart Meetings Says: Look for more wellness options at other Caesars properties and other brands in the coming months as incorporating local, fresh ingredients and moderate stretching helps attendees focus and feel better.

Nth Degree Brings on New Investor

Sept. 11, 2024—Atlanta-based Nth Degree, which operates out of 30 satellite offices across North America, Europe and Asia and serves clients at over 13,000 event and trade show projects annually, announced a strategic investment from Shamrock Capital, the LA-based investment firm specializing in media, entertainment and communications. The partnership, which is expected to strengthen Nth Degree’s presence in the rapidly growing live event sector, will seek to establish an unparalleled platform for the development of new business opportunities across the broader industry.

Nth Degree will continue to operate under its current leadership team and structures, including Nth Degree Events; the event strategies and expert operational support group and Fern Exposition Services; the holistic and integrated event services group.

Smart Meetings Says: As events continue to be a more important part of the marketing mix, look for more investments in trade show and exhibit companies.

PCMA Convening Leaders Features Liz Cheney and Kishore Mahbubani

Sept. 10, 2024—PCMA and CEMA president and CEO, Sherrif Karamat have announced the two main stage keynote speakers for Convening Leaders 2025 (CL25).

“Our universal environment is complex and constantly evolving; therefore, understanding global dynamics and principled leadership is essential for success,” said Karamat. “The global business events industry must not only keep pace, but we must also drive transformation. The insights presented by Kishore and Liz will challenge us to think beyond the ordinary and encourage us to look at challenges as opportunities as we continue to expand our reach and influence.”

Mahbubani, former present of the United Nations Security Council, will kick Monday, January 13th on the mainstage. Mahbubani will focus on shifting global power dynamics. Cheney, former United States congresswoman, will start on Tuesday, January 14th will discuss the pole of principled leadership.

Smart Meetings says: In an ever-changing world, CL25’s focus on encouraging global business events and going beyond boundaries is a necessary and essential asset for planners. The stellar lineup of speakers gives the industry the ability to explore, engage and evolve.

Cvent Acquires Splash

Sept. 5 2024—The event marketing tech company Splash has been acquired by the event software company Cvent in the latter’s latest move to expand its field marketing product suite. Splash provides users with tools to manage measurable, repeatable event programs. Over 60 Fortune 1,000 companies currently employ their services.

The acquisition will expand buyer reach, streamline more planning elements, generate brand awareness and provide more metrics in order to measure event outcomes.

“We admire Cvent’s long-time innovation and leadership in the meetings and events space especially as we see growing recognition of the importance of events among marketers and CMOs,” said Matthew Curry, Interim CEO of Splash. “For over a decade we have empowered marketers to create valuable, repeatable events through our powerful, intuitive tools. With Cvent, we look forward to accelerating event marketing success, making it more accessible, measurable, and impactful for businesses worldwide.”

Smart Meetings Says: Since Cvent was purchased by Blackstone in 2023, they have made some careful acquisitions. We expect more to come.

Thousands of Hotel Workers Walk Out in Labor Day Strike

Update Sept. 3—The number of hotels has now increased to 25 in nine cities with each city’s strike planned to last one to three days. You can see in real time what hotels, where are striking at a UNITE HERE Link that will be updated with changes.

Sept. 1, 2024—Hotel workers at 24 hotels in eight cities—Boston; Greenwich, Connecticut, Honolulu, Kauai, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Seattle at Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott branded properties—went on strike Sunday and other cities could follow, according to the union UNITE Here. specifically, strikes have been authorized in Baltimore; New Haven, Connecticut; Oakland, California and Providence, Rhode Island.

The union is calling for higher wages, fair staffing and workloads and the reversal of Covid-era service cuts. They say their wages aren’t enough to cover the cost of living and many have to work two jobs to make ends meet. The union says that many hotels took advantage of the pandemic to cut staffing and guest services that were never restored, causing workers to lose jobs and income—and creating painful working conditions.

The union pointed to record high room rates and $100 billion in operating profits in 2022, but a 13% decline in hotel staffing per occupied room from 2019 to 2022 in the form of understaffing, ending automatic daily housekeeping and removing food and beverage options.

The union urges guests not to eat, sleep, or meet at any hotel that is on strike during the busy holiday weekend or where workers have been on strike until they secure a new contract. Hotels may suspend services while trying to operate with skeleton staffing, and picket lines will run outside struck hotels for up to 24 hours a day. Guests are encouraged to consult the union’s travel guide and use its Labor Dispute Map, where they can search hotels by name or city to learn whether a hotel is on strike and find alternatives.

Smart Meetings Says: Check in with your hotels for upcoming programs to determine the service situation. More tips for managing venue union actions here.

David DuBois Appointed to Director Role at Matchpoint

Aug. 29, 2024—David DuBois, a visionary leader in the MICE industry, has taken a new role with Matchpoint, where he will serve as the director of strategic development. DuBois spent 11 years as the president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), and most recently served as president and CEO of Exhibitor Group.

Matchpoint has made significant strides in the evolving industry as an AI-powered professional networking event. As director of strategic development, DuBois brings extensive industry connections alongside significant expertise.

“The innovative approach that MatchPoint brings to professional networking aligns with my passion for connecting people and advancing the events industry,” DuBois says. “I look forward to contributing to the continued success of MatchPoint and building strategic partnerships that will drive monumental growth. Additionally, having had the pleasure of co-founding the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (the exhibition and conferences advocacy and public policy entity) I have a similar passion for the launch of MatchPoint as we enhance the networking experiences for professionals worldwide.”

Matchpoint co-founder Bill McGlade says, “David’s unparalleled experience and strategic insights are exactly what MatchPoint needs as we continue to innovate and lead in the AI-powered networking space. His contributions will be invaluable as we work towards our vision of revolutionizing professional connections.”

Legends Completes Acquisition of ASM Global

Aug. 27, 2024—The merger of two major live event service providers Legends and ASM Global was official last week. The combined company emphasized their “data-driven, customizable solution across all areas of venue operations and revenue generation focused on delivering exceptional fan and guest experiences in the sports, entertainment, attractions, conventions and leisure industries.” The company offers venue planning and management, content and event booking, merchandise and hospitality services. 

Smart Meetings Says: As sports stadiums have developed more sophisticated meeting spaces and catering options, sourcing arenas for events has become a big business.

Kentucky Exposition Center Breaks Ground on Expansion

Aug. 27, 2024—Kentucky Venues (kyvenues.com) unveiled the visual concepts for Kentucky Exposition Center’s Phase I & II renovations last week. The group broke ground to celebrate the multimillion dollar renovation plans for the facility, located in Louisville. Phase I is projected to cost $180 million and will include a newinterconnected350,000totalsquare feet multi–purpose building with the capabilities to host events ranging from livestock competitions and equine events to trade shows and sporting events. In the $213 million Phase II, Kentucky Exposition Center will redevelop the West Wing, West Hall and Pavilion into a singular, connected 249,000sq. ft. multi–purpose building. Construction will begin in 2025.

Smart Meetings Says: Look for an additional $76 million in enhancements, including wayfinding and payment technology, that will make the spaces even more meeting-friendly in the future.

ATL Airport District Passes Torch to New President

Aug. 27, 2024—At a Going for the Gold-themed annual meeting, ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau President Cookie Smoak literally passed a symbolic torch to Executive Director Mercedes Miller, who will take the President role Sept. 1 when Smoak retires.

ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), the destination marketing organization for the cities of College Park, Hapeville and Union City, announced at the meeting that the CVB’s sales team fulfilled more than 1,000 leads during the 2023-24 fiscal year, which resulted in more than 69,000 room nights booked. In total, the CVB’s efforts produced an estimated economic impact of $81,447,319.

Renee Montgomery, a two-time WNBA Champion and vice president and co-owner of the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream, whose homecourt is the District’s own Gateway Center Arena, delivered an impactful and inspirational keynote, encouraging attendees to strive for excellence in their lives. During her remarks, Montgomery said, “once your goal is established, you must believe without a shadow of a doubt you can get there. I believed each time I put up a shot that it was going in. If I missed, I was shocked! That determination and belief in yourself will propel you to your gold standard.”

Smart Meetings Says: As a flurry of changes occur at the top ranks of CVBs across the country, maintaining relationships will help preserve access to resources and information.

Echo Experiential Result of New Exhibit Service Partnership

Aug. 27, 2024—Echo Media Group and Skyline Displays of Orange County announced today the formation of Echo Experiential, an alliance dedicated to serving the event and exhibit needs of companies across all industries. This new offering combines award-winning marketing communications expertise coupled with the ability to plan, design, build exhibits, and manage the logistics for events and trade shows for a one-stop event planning shop. Skyline Displays have been in the business for more than 40 years building custom exhibits and Echo Experiential markets itself as storytellers.

Smart Meetings Says: Expectations for trade show floors have changed with attendees expecting experiences rather than swag and sales pitches. That could impact the landscape of resources available to provide that higher level of immersion.

Visit Dallas Highlights Maverick Spirit

Aug. 26, 2024—After nearly two years of comprehensive research and stakeholder engagement, Visit Dallas has launched a new destination branding campaign is centered around the “Maverick, Can-Do” spirit that makes Dallas unique; a confident energy generated by its people—a diverse, welcoming intermingling of personalities, perspectives and passions. New ads showcase culinary, entertainment, arts, meeting and LGBTQ+ travel—doing things the Dallas way “Cause we can,” as the ad copy reads.

Smart Meetings Says: It is refreshing to see a destination embrace all audiences by highlighting local values.

EIC Launches Survey for Futures Landscape Study

Aug. 22, 2024—The Events Industry Council (EIC) today released a survey for its Futures Landscape Study. It is one aspect of a year-long project to examine the emerging issues that play the biggest role in the evolution of the business events industry. Developed in partnership with the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Foundation, the survey covers a diverse range of topics, including political and geopolitical issues, economic trends, technology, safety and security and environmental impact.

Results will be used to shape the content and themes of the EIC Futures Landscape Report, which will be released in late 2024. Additionally, once the survey closes, EIC leaders, GainingEdge and other stakeholders will present an analysis of the data at the upcoming EIC Council Meeting and Think Tank in September, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

All representatives in the global business events sector are encouraged to take the survey. In addition, EIC will send the survey to 1,300 Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs) and is encouraging each of its association and corporate members to share the survey with their respective memberships. The survey will remain open for approximately two weeks.

Take the survey here.

Smart Meetings Says: As the meetings industry changes post-Covid, understanding the pressures meeting professionals face daily is even more important.

Smart Meetings says: The global business events industry continues to evolve—seemingly faster than ever, with the increasing development of technology like AI and our ever more connected world. Identifying the trends that business event professionals around the world are finding most impactful in their work is essential for all members and partners of the industry to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the present-day industry landscape and be better prepared for the future, based on an ability to draw more accurate predictions for the industry’s future development.

Hyatt Hotels to Purchase Standard International

August 20, 2024—Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced its plan to acquire lifestyle company Standard International, parent company of The Standard, Bunkhouse Hotels and Peri Hotels. The purchase is set to close later this year.

Hyatt’s acquired portfolio will grant it 21 open hotel with roughly 2,000 room, including The Standard hotels in London, New York City and Bangkok, as well as Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin, Texas.

“We waited a long time to find the right company with whom to join forces,” said Amar Lalvani, Standard International’s executive chairman.

“In choosing Hyatt, we tap into a powerful global infrastructure and loyal guest base. I am very proud that our team has delivered on the potential we saw with The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels and am honored that Hyatt appreciates how special our brands, properties, and—most importantly—our people are. We have a shared vision for the enormous potential that still lies ahead. I would be remiss not to express my gratitude to Hyatt for taking this bold step forward and to Sansiri [PLC, real estate developer] who has been instrumental in supporting our efforts.”

In addition to its three established hotel brands, Standard International also has two new additions, The StandardX, which launched this month in Melbourne, and The Manner, which launches next month in New York. More than 30 projects with a signed agreement or letter of intent remain in Standard International’s pipeline.

Smart Meetings says: With more hotels under the Hyatt’s World of Hyatt loyalty program, event profs and attendees will have more opportunities to take advantage of the it.

Destinations International Report: Progress and Opportunity for Inclusion

August 20, 2024—In its third iteration since 2020, key findings of The Social Inclusion Study on Destination Organizations conducted by Destinations International included:

• 73% of destination organization and industry partner employees want to see more diversity in their organizations.
• Only 36% of destination and 41% of industry partner employees believe there is sufficient accountability in place if diversity, equity and inclusion goals are not met.
• Collectively, diverse leaders occupy 30% or fewer roles in destination and industry organizations.
• While 72% of destinations have inclusion strategies, 28% do not have formal oversight for these initiatives.

Around 450 destination organizations and 120 industry partners participated in the study.

In a statement, Destinations International said the findings “highlight the need for accountability through alignment, ownership and clear goal setting. These goals should consider the perspectives and needs of underrepresented populations and be incorporated into initiatives and measurable programs.”

Walt Disney World Announces Expansion and Future Attractions

Aug. 12, 2024—On Aug. 10 during the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event hosted in Anaheim, California, it was announced that the Magic Kingdom would be undergoing an expansion, the largest in its history.

The expansion will begin with FrontierLand that will include a brand-new story inspired by Pixar Animation Studio “Cars”.

“We are thrilled to create this original Cars adventure and put our guests in the driver’s seat as we—quite literally—explore a new frontier in Frontierland,” shared Michael Hundgen, Walt Disney World Portfolio Executive Producer at Walt Disney Imagineering.

“Part of pioneering this new story includes tapping into the themes of exploration and adventure that inspire so many of us to keep propelling forward. Anytime we touch Magic Kingdom, we recognize the massive responsibility that exists to get it right and tell stories that connect with our guests.”

Smart Meetings Says:

The unique spaces in theme parks make for memorable backdrops for evening receptions after park hours and new attractions create excitement with attendees. Stay tuned for more details as construction begins.

HostsGlobal Welcomes Condor Travel as its Newest Member

Aug. 1, 2024—International destination management company (DMC) HostsGlobal welcomes leading South American DMC Condor Travel as its newest member. Condor Travel has operations in six countries, including Brazil and Peru. With the addition of Condor Travel, HostsGlobal now expands its reach into South America, and globally, six continents.

Condor Travel has spent the last two decades establishing its deep-rooted passion for South America and has provided leading event management services that highlight the dynamic region’s unique landscapes, flavors and cultures. With this new member, HostsGlobal can now offer its clients more destination options and services, and Condor Travel gains the ability to expand its client reach.

Jascivan Carvalho, Condor Travel’s inbound business director, says, “Joining Hosts Global is a significant milestone for us. We are thrilled to be part of an esteemed global alliance that shares our commitment to excellence. We look forward to collaborating with Hosts Global to offer unparalleled experiences and exceptional service in Brazil and Peru.”

Smart Meetings says:

South America has continually seen increasing demand from the MICE industry. In a post-pandemic age when engaging travel is top of mind, and planners know that their attendees seek authentic experiences in exciting destinations, DMO partnerships are critical. This partnership expands the reach of both Hosts Global and Condor Travel, and will offer planners increased options as they seek to meet their own clients’ needs and wishes.

ASM Global Signs Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge

July 31, 2024—ASM Global, the world leader in venue development and management has signed The Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE). The pledge reaffirms ASM Global’s commitment to environmental sustainably and climate change awareness.

“We believe in the importance of sustainability as a key driver of our future. With this in mind, we have pledged to take action and lead our industry to accelerate our engagement in the NZCE pledge,” said Dan Hoffend, SVP Convention Centers, ASM Global.

Smart Meetings says: 

By signing the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative, ASM Global has set itself as a major player and role model in environmental and sustainability awareness within the meetings industry. With over 400 venues across the world, ASM Global has the ability to set a precedent for the future of the industry as a whole.

Hotel Strikes Loom in 4 U.S. Cities

July 29, 2024—In the face of potential strikes at hotels in Boston, Honolulu, Providence and San Francisco, Unite Here, the union representing hotel workers, has advised meeting professionals to have protective language in all hotel contracts to allow cancellation in the event of labor disputes.

The union said strikes are possible as early as this summer as some 13,500 hotel workers vote whether to authorize strikes in those destinations at properties flagged by several major brands, including Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and Omni. The voting begins Aug. 6.

If strikes are approved, picket lines and other actions can be called after contract expirations at the affected properties. Contracts in some cities have already expired, while others expire in the coming weeks. “These labor disputes carry the risk of significant disruptions to meetings and events planned in these cities,” said a Unite Here press release.  

“During the COVID years, hotel executives enacted widespread cuts to staffing, services, and guest amenities nationwide. These cuts are taking center stage in upcoming potential labor disruptions, as union members demand that hotels ‘respect our work’ by reversing them,” the union stated.  

The union is also seeking increased wages for hotel workers.

 “Momentum is building for strikes this year because workers are at a breaking point while the hotel industry is making record profits,” said Unite Here International President Gwen Mills. “Meanwhile, wages aren’t enough to cover the cost of living, and many workers have two or even three jobs.”

Last year, Unite Here members won record contracts after rolling strikes at Los Angeles and Orange County hotels.

Smart Meetings says:

If your group has an official position of not crossing labor picket lines, or if a labor action would significantly impact attendance of group members, keynoters or panelists, and if time allows, consider shifting your event to a hotel that has already agreed to a new labor contract for its workers—or to a different city. DMOs and tourism boards in the destination can often help in locating a new venue. Learn more here and here.

Biden-Harris Administration to Grant More Than $374 Million to Improve Airports

July 26, 2024—U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration recently announced more than $374 million will be used to improve airfield, safety and other projects at 299 airports in 46 states and American Samoa.

This is a third round of grants from the Airport Improvement Program, which will fund projects like the construction of new and improved airports, runway and taxiway repairs, airfield lighting and signage maintenance, and the purchase of equipment to operate and maintain airports.

Airports set to receive funding include Miami International Airport (MIA) in Florida, Denver International Airport (DEN) in Colorado and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) in Alabama.

Smart Meetings says:

Improved airport infrastructure can ensure meeting professionals and their attendees make it safely and on time to and from the event. Less hiccups mean meeting profs can focus on the attendee experience and other important matters during the event.

Pechanga Resort Casino Becomes Founding Partner of Intuit Dome

July 26, 2024–Pechanga Resort Casino has expanded its partnership with the Los Angeles Clippers to becomes its exclusive tribal casino and a founding partner of Intuit Dome, set to open Aug. 15. The two organizations plan to host community events each year. When the partnership began in June, the Pechanga and the Clippers donated laptops and supplies to Ortega High School in Lake Elsinore, California, to help students apply for colleges, jobs and financial aid.

“We are excited to partner and support the Clippers as they open their new home, Intuit Dome,” said Ken Perez, president of Pechanga Development Corporation. “This partnership expands the Pechanga brand and presence in Southern California sports and entertainment while making our communities better and stronger.”

Smart Meetings says:

Intuit Dome is part of a new generation of arenas that offer more than sports and concert venues. Anchored in their communities, they are memorable places for small and large gatherings and feature some of the most advanced AV available. Learn more about event rental here.

Southwest Airline Announces Changes to Seating Policy

July 24, 2024—Southwest Airline recently announced a change to their seating policy. Southwest will now be assigning seats to travelers, who will also be able to purchase premium seating options for all available flights.

“Moving to assigned seating and offering premium legroom options will be a transformational change that cuts across almost all aspects of the Company,” says Bob Jordan, President, CEO, & Vice Chairman of the Board. “Although our unique open seating model has been a part of Southwest Airlines since our inception, our thoughtful and extensive research makes it clear this is the right choice—at the right time—for our Customers, our People, and our Shareholders. We are excited to incorporate Customer and Employee feedback to design a unique experience that only Southwest can deliver. We have been building purposefully to this change as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the Southwest experience as we focus on Customer expectations – and it will unlock new sources of revenue consistent with our laser focus on delivering improved financial performance.”

Smart Meetings says: 

For planners and attendees who appreciate Southwest’s service but aren’t a fan of looking for a free space when boarding in the last group of their flight, the news alleviates one less stressful factor on route to your next event.

Miami Beach Convention Center Becomes Certified Autism Center

July 24, 2024—The Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) has been named a Certified Autism Center (CAC). This follows the Greater Miami Convention Center that achieved its certification in April.

“Achieving the Certified Autism Center™ designation marks a pivotal next step in our commitment to inclusivity, and I am extremely proud of our staff’s dedication and achievement. This autism certification enables the Miami Beach Convention Center, owned by the City of Miami Beach and proudly managed by Oak View Group, to better serve visitors with special needs, setting a new standard for accessibility in the events industry,” says MBCC General Manager Freddie Peterson.

Smart Meetings says:

By being named a CAC, MBCC has proven it can accommodate the needs of differently-abled guests. It takes work for venues to achieve this title: at least 80% of guest-facing staff must complete IBBCES’s training and pass an exam on serving guests with autism and other sensory disorders. The facility undergoes an onsite review by IBCCES professionals and must commit to continued training. By choosing a CAC to host an event, planners demonstrate they are aware of the needs of all participants and attendees, which goes way into making them feel seen and appreciated among the thousands of people invited to the event. and can expand their own client satisfaction and loyalty.

For more on creating inclusive events, read Smart Meetings’ article Neuroinclusion: Events for Everyone.

Jamaica Rebounds After Beryl

July 24, 2024—Despite the recent challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl, Jamaica’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, welcoming over 105,000 stopover visitors since reopening its ports. Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett shared this statistic during his closing presentation of the 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate in Parliament to underscore the industry’s strength and contribution to the Jamaican economy.

“On July 2^nd and 3^rd, we had no visitors arriving in Jamaica,” said Minister Bartlett. “However, on the Fourth of July, we started receiving visitors again and in just 11 days, we have brought in 105,000 stopover visitors. This is what resilience looks like.” He noted that the rapid rebound is a testament to Jamaica’s well-honed disaster preparedness plans and the unwavering spirit of its tourism stakeholders. The Minister further explained that the arrival numbers received a significant bump thanks to patrons visiting for Reggae Sumfest 2024, currently underway in Montego Bay.

Smart Meetings says:

NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year due to warmer than average ocean temperature, a major driver of tropical activity. Check in with NOAA and local authorities frequently in advance of your program and understand that effects can be highly localized with many areas escaping damage while others nearby are hit much harder and plan accordingly. 

Destinations International Announces Location for Next Year’s Annual Convention

July 18, 2024—On the tail end of the Destinations International (DI) 2024 Annual Convention, the organization has announced that next year, the convention will take place in Chicago. This year’s convention took place in Tampa, Fla. This year saw record-breaking attendance with nearly 1,900 attendees and 34 countries and territories around the world.

Don Welsh, CEO of DI, said, “We’re deeply grateful to Visit Tampa Bay president & CEO Santiago Corrada and his outstanding team for their warm hospitality, partnership and hard work to make this year’s convention an unforgettable experience.

“We’re excited to be heading to Chicago next year for our 2025 Annual Convention and look forward to working with Rich Gamble, interim CEO at Choose Chicago and his entire team to plan another must-attend conference for our members. Chicago holds a special place in my heart as my family and I called it home for five years when I served as the CEO of Choose Chicago.” 

Destinations International Announces 68 CDME Recipients

July 17, 2024—Destinations International has announced the 68 industry leaders that have earned the Certified Destination Executive (CDME) designation in 2024. The news was announced during the Annual Convention in Tampa, Florida this week.

“Congratulations to the new CDME credential recipients, representing the pinnacle of individual accomplishment in the tourism sector,” says Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “These distinguished leaders have enhanced their professional expertise, preparing themselves to navigate the evolving challenges and competitive dynamics within our industry.”

The CDME certification program is designed specifically for destination management professionals and is the industry’s highest individual educational achievement. The program prepares destination professionals to use their experience and knowledge to focus on the key concepts of vision, leadership, productivity, and business strategies.

Workers at Hyatt Regency Crystal City File for Union Election

July 15, 2024—Housekeepers at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City have filed for a union election after only 70% signed union authorization cards. The workers are organizing with UNITE HERE Local 25 that works with 6,500 hospitality workers in Maryland, D.C., and Virginia. The hospitality workers are seeking higher pay, benefits, fair workloads and respect.

“I am responsible for cleaning spaces over 14 floors of the hotel during a single shift,” says Aymane Mokrane, a Houseperson at the hotel. “One day recently I was so tired I slept on the floor after getting home, I couldn’t even make it to my bed. We need the same union protections as workers at the Hyatt Regency in Washington have.”

Local 25 has filed an Unfair Labor Practice charged against Hyatt, as well as its subcontractor J&B Cleaning.

“A supermajority of housekeepers at the Hyatt Crystal City have spoken loud and clear, and they want a union,” says Paul Schwalb, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of UNITE HERE Local 25. “Their work is exhausting and even painful. They deserve the standards, rights, respect, wages and benefits that union hotel workers in D.C.’s Hyatts have won.”

EIC Opens CMP Needs Assessment Survey

July 11, 2024—The 2024 CMP Needs Assessment Survey is now live. The 10-minute survey gathers information from CMPs on the challenges and opportunities they see in the industry and assesses how the CMP designation has served them. EIC will use the results to shape the CMP experience for CMPs around the world.

Take the survey here.

AHLA Releases Statement on Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act

July 11, 2024—American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey released a comment on the introduction of the Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act. The act would require the Department of Homeland SEcurity (DHS) to create a certification program that would allow for businesses to train their employees to recognizes and react to a possible human trafficking situation.

“The Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act would complement our industry’s anti-trafficking efforts by providing important third-party validation for hotels’ training and prevention initiatives,” says AHLA Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey. “We are grateful to Reps. Valadao and Carter for introducing this important bill and look forward to helping them pass it into law.”

The act was introduced by Reps. David Valadaos, R-Calif., and Troy Carter, D-La.

The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the largest hotel association in America. AHLA represents more than 30,000 members throughout the hospitality industry.

Didier Scaillet, Former SITE CEO, Dies

July 10, 2024—Didier Scaillet, CIS, CITP, a longtime events industry executive and former CEO of Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), died July 9 after a hospital stay in his native Belgium. He was 54 years old.

“All at SITE are shocked and saddened,” said a statement posted on SITE’s website. “Our hearts go out to his wife, Sabine, and his children, Martin, Morgane and Giles.”

The organization said a book of condolences can be accessed at hulsmans-goossens.be.

Scaillet began his career at one of the first association management companies in Europe, quickly rose to be a business partner, noted a bio compiled by SITE Canada.

It continued: “He held various roles with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) as director of European operations, vice-president of global development and chief development officer for MPI and the MPI Foundation.”  He also served as director of the Events Industry Council and first vice-chair of the Incentive Federation.

In addition, Scaillet was vice president for business development for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), where he spearheaded the “global redesign and integration of the organization’s executive partnership program and expansion of revenue in new categories and markets.”

He was also instrumental in the development of the Meetings & Business Events Competency Standards, the backbone for SITE’s competency-based education model for incentive professionals.

Most recently, he was senior director of corporate fundraising at the Internet Society Foundation.

You can listen to Smart Meetings TV host Mike Lyons’ interview with him on the podcast Lessons from Leaders here.

Allegretto Vineyard Resort Awards Employees Scholarships

July 9, 2024—The Allegretto Vineyard Resort has announced that it will be awarding 15 local employees and family members scholarships through the 2024 Ayres Cares Scholarship Fund.

“Knowing that the Ayres Group recognizes the same excellence in our employees that we witness daily means so much to us,” says Rich Verruni, general manager of the Allegretto. “Our team is filled with potential, and it’s an honor to see so many of them recognized by these scholarships.”

Scholarship winners are in various educational programs including college, community college, trade schools and vocational training.

Hurricane Beryl Updates Across the Caribbean and Texas

July 8, 2024—After Hurricane Beryl crossed the Caribbean late last week, Meetings Incentive Experts (MIE), Hyatt Inclusive Collection and Visit Jamaica have shared positive updates.

As of July 1, the storm was classified as a Category Four, which the National Hurricane Center (NHC) called “an extremely dangerous and life threatening situation.” Hurricane Beryl is currently moving through Texas as a Category One storm.

Hurricane Beryl moved past Jamaica on July 3rd. Thanks to strong preparation, hotels and resorts in the area, and their guests and staff, remained safe. Jamaica’s general tourism infrastructure maintained no wide-scale impact, according to the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “Jamaica is open for business and, once again, the resilience of the Jamaican people is on full display,” he says.

Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston, The Ian Fleming International Airport (IFIA) in Ocho Rios and Jamaica’s cruise ports in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Falmouth are all currently open.

In a press release, Hyatt also shared a list of its many Inclusive Collection Resorts throughout the Mexican Caribbean that faced no property damage and remain fully operational. Cancun International Airport (CUN) and Cozumel International Airport (COZ) are open and operational.

Hurricane Beryl was downgraded to a Category Two storm upon making landfall near Tulum early Friday, July 5. At that time, maximum sustained winds reached 70 miles per hour. The area faced no major damage, according to MIE Cancun Operations Manager Fernanda Franco, in a press release, who said, “The MIE Office utilized our Hurricane Management Procedures and everyone is safe.”

The storm weakened to a tropical storm after moving beyond Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, but regained strength as it crossed over the Gulf of Mexico.

Visitors to locations throughout the Caribbean are still advised to look to their travel providers and airlines for updates prior to their arrival.

Early July 8, the storm made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Texas, about 85 miles south-southwest of Houston, with maximum sustained winds up to 80 miles per hour. The storm currently moves through Houston. At this time, reported deaths include at least 11 people in Jamaica, Venezuela, Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines and three in Texas’s Harris County, which includes Houston.

View live updates to the storm on NHC’s website.

U.S.-Mexico Join WTTC Council to Promote Sustainable Travel

July 5, 2024—The World Travel & Tourism Council and the U.S.-Mexico Foundation entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation in fostering sustainable growth in North America’s tourism sector, an industry valued at $3 trillion. 

By leveraging the expertise and resources of both organizations with the help of public-private sector agencies, the alliance could influence policy and open opportunities for innovation.

“Tourism and people connectivity are clear examples of what can be achieved,” said Enrique Perret, US.-Mexico Foundation managing director.” This agreement…will help bring out the potential of the region as an economic and tourism powerhouse.”

It’s Official: Tulsa is the Capital of Route 66

July 3, 2024—If anything is almost as red, white and blue as the Fourth of July, it’s storied Route 66. And now the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, owns the copyright to call itself “Capital of Route 66.”

The fabled “Mother Road” was born in 1926. Today, the highway where you can get your kicks still stretches 2,278 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. And even though the interstates have stolen much of its status, it attracts millions of nostalgic road warriors each year.

Tulsa boasts 28 miles of Route 66 within its city limits, bookended by Gateway Arches on the east and west. Travelers pass by dozens of neon signs and other landmarks that harken back to the days when it was the main thoroughfare through much of the country. Motoring past Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios, for example, they will surely notice 21-foot-tall Buck Atom Muffler Man and his new companion, Stella Atom Space Cowgirl.

“Route 66 is an integral part of Tulsa’s identity and we’ve long been known as the Capital of Route 66. To have this official designation is an exciting day for Tulsa, our region, and the state of Oklahoma,” proclaimed Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum.

L.A. City Council Moves Forward L.A. Convention Center Expansion Plans

July 3, 2024—The Los Angeles City Council has voted to move forward the LA Convention Center (LACC) Expansion and Modernization Project. The design-build delivery model will connect the two existing South and West Exhibit Halls with one contiguous hall, adding 190,000 sq. ft. of space. It will also add 55,000 sq. ft. of new meeting room space and 95,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose space, as well as redesign Gilbert Lindsay Plaza, expanding public open space and spearheading an exciting outdoor venue.

In the upcoming months, the City will work with architects AEG, Plenary and Populous and general contractors PCL and Webcor to finalize design plans, schedule and costs. Construction will begin in spring 2025 and is slated to be completed before the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games take place in LA.

Chief Tourism Officer and Executive Director of the City Tourism Department Doane Liu says, “Despite being the second largest city in the United States, the LACC is currently a second tier facility and we are losing out on business to other cities due to the constraints of the Convention Center.” Calling the public infrastructure project “essential for LA’s future,” Liu says, “With this expansion, LACC will become a premier destination that is able to pursue larger events that bring visitors to LA who spend money at our local hotels, restaurants and attractions, adding additional revenue to the City’s General Fund.”

The LACC currently hosts nearly 200 events and two million visitors each year. Local businesses, especially downtown, rely on direct and indirect spending from the LACC. The expansion project is anticipated to draw over $165 million in visitor spending annually, and will create 7,445 new jobs during construction and 2,147 jobs on an ongoing basis.

“We’re excited that an upgraded facility will allow us to expand our event base with more top-tier programs and allow our current clients continued growth opportunities, says LACC General Manager Kimberly Weedmark. “An expanded and modernized Center will provide our customers with innovative technology and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. We look forward to delivering excellent service and exceeding clients’ and guests’ expectations at every event.”

ETHOS Event Collective Announces Passion Project initiative

July 1, 2024—Ethos Event Collective has announced the launch of the Passion Project initiative that’s goal is to connect clients with charitable organizations within the community they inhabit. As part of the project, Ethos will also be giving back 1% of program profits to those charities.

“At Ethos, we believe that destination management is not just about coordinating events; it’s about creating meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact,” says Joe Fijol, Founder and Principal of Ethos Event Collective. “Purposeful Planning™ is at the heart of everything we do, driving our commitment to excellence and social responsibility.”   

Founded in 2021, the goal of Ethos Event Collective is to create memorable experiences that reflect their client’s aspirations.

Category 4 Storm to Hit Caribbean

July 1, 2024—Hurricane Beryl, currently a Category Four storm, is moving across the Caribbean Sea towards Mexico’s eastern coast. At this time, the eyewall of the storm is moving through the southern Windward Islands, including Grenada, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Tobago. A hurricane watch is in place for Jamaica; Martinique, Trinidad and St. Lucia have established a tropical storm warning; and portions of the Dominican Republic and Haiti have established a tropical storm watch.

The storm has been called “an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation” by the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Destructive winds, heavy rainfall and flash flooding are expected in the southern Windward Islands region late Monday morning through the afternoon. AccuWeather reports that as of this morning, the storm has sustained winds of 140 mph and that this intensity is expected to continue throughout the day.

No confirmed reports to meetings hotels or convention venues are reported at this time.

Disney Cruise Line Sailing from Singapore in 2025

June 27, 2024—Starting in 2025, Disney Cruise Line will be offering vacation packages to Singapore. This will be the first Disney Cruise Line to homeport in Asia. The adventure will include three and four-night voyages offering a magical experience at sea and an immersive experience for all.

“We’re bringing the magic of Disney Cruise Line to Asia for the first time ever, and we want to give our guests the cruise relaxation and Disney fun they can only experience aboard one of our ships,” says Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “When they set sail on the Disney Adventure, guests will find incredible, immersive areas that bring the worlds of Disney, Pixar and Marvel to life in ways like never before – and these uniquely Disney experiences will inspire families to reconnect, recharge and make unforgettable memories that they’ll cherish forever.”

Choose New Jersey to Open New Jersey West Coast Center in Bay Area

June 27, 2024—Choose New Jersey has announced they will be opening a New Jersey West Coast Center in Sunnyvale, California. This new venue will focus on helping companies headquartered in the West Coast that focus on artificial intelligence, technology, and film industries to expand beyond towards the East Coast.

“Building upon our successful model of opening New Jersey Centers in key international markets, Choose New Jersey is thrilled to announce the opening of our first domestic center outside of New Jersey,” says Wesley Mathews, President & CEO of Choose New Jersey. “New Jersey is the perfect East Coast complement to the Bay Area’s large and well-funded innovation ecosystem.”

The Center is scheduled to officially open on July 15, 2024.

ASAE Announces 2024 Exceptional Leadership Honorees

June 24, 2024—Today, ASAE announced the recipients of the Individual Honors for Exceptional Leadership. This award honors professionals who have demonstrated exemplary support of ASAE, the association community and society at large. These awards will be presented during the 2024 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition Aug. 10-13, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

The 2024 honorees are:

• Key Award: Gabriel Ekert FASAE, CAE, CEO at Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Georgia and BOMA Georgia Foundation.
• Professional Performance Award: Stefanie Reeves, FASAE, CAE, deputy chief of pubic policy and engagement at American Psychological Association
• Academy of Leaders Award: Dr. Lowell M. Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, CPF, CEO at Vista Cova

Each award honors leaders with different achievements. The Key Award recognizes chief staff executives who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to voluntary membership organizations; the Professional Performance Award recognizes association executives at the top level in their organizations but not in the role of CEO of who have made important contributions; and the Academy of Leaders Award honors consultants or industry partners who have demonstrated outstanding support for ASAE and the association community.

Destinations International Announces Recipients of HBCU Scholarships

June 24, 2024—Destinations International (DI) today announces nine recipients of the Destinations International Foundation Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) and Hospitality scholarship. To date, the foundation has raised over $225,000 USD from individual and organization donors to support this program. Each student will receive $8,000 USD for the 2024-2025 academic year.

DI and industry partners, through the DI Foundation, created the program to support underrepresented and ethnically diverse students seeking degrees in hospitality or tourism management and to provide those students with support and guidance throughout their academic journeys through pairing them with local mentors and participation in ongoing learning programs with DI members throughout the academic year.

“The goal of the scholarship is to provide historically underrepresented students interested in the hospitality industry with an avenue to connect and learn about the many career paths that exist, as well as lessening the financial burden on the emerging your professionals, says DI President and CEO Don Welsh.

The 2024-2025 HBCU Scholarship recipients include:

• Cassandre Bossicot, Bethune-Cookman University 
• Celine Trombi, Delaware State University 
• Christian Nettles, North Carolina Central University  
• Hannah Weiss, Delaware State University 
• Justin Simon, Morgan State University 
• Kajal Ghising, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore 
• Kaniyah Williams Bailey, Delaware State University 
• Ly Bao Tran Phan, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore 
• Mya Mendoza, Morgan State University 

GRAMMY-Winning Artist Nelly to Perform at 2024 ASAE Annual Meeting and Exposition

June 20, 2024—ASAE has announced that GRAMMY-winning artist Nelly will be headlining the Opening Celebration of ASAE’s 2024 Annual Meetings & Exposition in Cleveland, OH on August 10 at Rocket Mortage Fieldhouse.

“ASAE is excited to have Nelly kick off the festivities at our 2024 Annual Meeting in Cleveland,” says ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “Nelly’s music transcends generations and brings people together, which aligns perfectly with our conference theme. This Opening Celebration will set a powerful tone for the rest of the meeting as we come together to share insights and inspire one another.”

The event’s theme “In Unity, We Thrive,” aims to gather the association community in learning, connections, strategic insights and inspiration.

Hosts Global Expands DMC Services to Benelux Region

June 20, 2024—Hosts Global, destination management company, has announced Creators of Live will be added to its Global Alliance Service. Through this, DMC service will be available to the Benelux region that also includes Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg.

“We have grown through creating memorable experiences, forging meaningful connections, and embracing limitless possibilities,” says Jacco Verschoor, Founder of Creators of Live. “We are beyond proud to join the Hosts Global Alliance family and can’t wait to welcome you to our exquisite destinations. Our passion for live communication and events allows us to make stories come alive and create lifelong memories. With over 15 years of expertise in the Hospitality & Event industry, we’ve built a vast and exclusive network of partners worldwide, ensuring that borders do not limit us. Each event begins with a collaborative process, grounded in our creative, exclusive, and hospitable approach, guaranteeing transparency and exceeding expectations.”

Terramar DMC Expands SoCal Team

June 19, 2024—Terramar has announced the expansion of its Southern California team with the addition of Michelle Stansfield, CPCE, as senior sales manager. Her main focus will be Palm Springs’ role within the brand.

“In light of the increased demand in the region overall, it makes sense to continue to match that growth within team Terramar. Michelle brings not only a wealth of experience and knowledge, but a strong presence as a leader in the meetings and events community,” says Lisa DeLeon, vice president of global sales. “There is no better individual to assist with these expansion initiatives and help Terramar continue to grow.”

Travel Portland President & CEO Announces Upcoming Retirement

June 19, 2024—Travel Portland President and CEO Jeff Miller has shared that he will retire in December 2024, and Travel Portland has embarked on a search process to find a new leader for the DMO.

Miller has spent nearly two decades leading Travel Portland, working to shape Portland’s reputation as a premier destination, harness tourism as a force for community good and economic viability and overall lead with extraordinary vision and tireless dedication. During his 19 years in the role, Portland saw record-breaking tourism numbers annually for a decade beginning in 2009. Convention sales saw numerous events come to the city and some of the city’s largest conventions to date. He also oversaw the creation of the city’s Tourism Improvement District (TID), which created new revenue channels to fund greater promotional work. He led the organization through challenges such as the pandemic and delayed tourism recovery.

“I believe in Portland and I believe in the dedicated tourism professionals who will carry the torch after me,” Miller says. “I’m excited to pursue other interests, but also committed to a smooth transition and using the next year to ensure the organization remains well positioned for future success.”

Gary/Chicago International Airport Breaks Ground on $12-Million Hangar

June 19, 2024—Gary/Chicago International Airport (GCIA) broke ground on a $12-million, 47,000-square-foot aviation hangar. When the hangar opens in May 2025, it will house Wingtip Aviation.

The project is being partly supported through Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) grant program, which is providing $1.3 million.

“GCIA has seen extensive growth and investment over the years, and this new hangar is further evidence of the airport’s incredible promise as an economic engine for the City of Gary and our region,” said City of Gary Mayor Eddie Melton. “Investments such as this new hangar create jobs and critical economic investment to the region, helping provide a strong foundation for future economic development.”

This is the latest development in a series of which that began in 2015, starting with the expansion of the GCIA’s main runway in 2015, followed by the addition of its U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility in 2018.

Visit California Driving $62.2 Million Investment to Lure International Travelers

June 18, 2024—Visit California’s Board of Directors recently approved a $156.6 million marketing program around their Lt’s Play and Born to Be Wild (road trip messaging) campaigns.

“Although we face headwinds with a very strong dollar and excessive wait times for visas, international visitors are beginning to return to California in greater numbers,” said Visit California President and CEO Caroline Beteta. Last year, international visitor spending was up nearly 28% year-over-year, growing to 80% of its pre-pandemic peak. The most recent forecast predicts that international visitor spending in California will exceed 2019 levels by 2025. Chinese visitors are still just 48% of 2019 peak numbers.

Marriott-Starbucks Loyalty Collaboration Announced

June 18, 2024—Marriott Bonvoy travel program and marketplace, and Starbucks announced a new collaboration offering benefits to their respective members when they link loyalty accounts. Starting today, members enrolled in both programs can  earn these new benefits such as double stars during stays and Bonvoy point during designated Marriott Bonvoy Weeks.

To celebrate the new loyalty collaboration, Marriott Bonvoy will launch a sweepstakes to win a range of prizes, including a Grand Prize trip to visit each of the Starbucks Reserve Roasteries in Seattle, Milan and Tokyo with a stay in a participating hotel and round-trip air transportation fare included. 

76% of Hotels are Experiencing Staffing Shortages, According to AHLA Survey

June 13, 2024—In May, the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) conducted a survey of hoteliers in which 76% of respondents reported their hotels were experiencing staffing shortages. 13% reported being severely understaffed, which means that the staffing shortage is affecting the hotel’s ability to operate. 79% report being unable to fill open positions. 50% ranked housekeeping as their most pressing staffing need.

These numbers have worsened since January, when 67% of respondents reported experiencing a staffing shortage. However, in a more positive trend, respondents on average shared they are attempting to fill seven jobs per month, as opposed to nine jobs per month in January.

In response to these shortages, hotels across the board are ramping up pay, benefits and perks to draw employees. Hospitality workers have seen unprecedented growth in their industry since the COVID-19 pandemic, with average wages increasing faster than other industries, as well as increasing benefits and flexibility.

Kevin Carey, AHLA interim president & CEO, says, ““Strong summer travel demand and a nationwide workforce shortage have combined to create more pay, perks, and upward mobility for current and prospective hotel employees. But hotels need access to more workers to continue creating jobs.”

To this end, AHLA is lobbying Congress and the administration for solutions aimed at growing the workforce while also upholding programs that provide hospitality workers with tools and support to achieve successful careers in their industry, such as the Empowering Youth and Registered Apprentice programs.

PCMA Event Achieves Sustainable Event Standards Certification

June 13, 2024—The Events Industry Council has announced that Convening Leaders 2024 (CL23), EIC member PCMA flagship education and networking event, has received Silver Level Certification to EIC’s Sustainable Events Standards.

“PCMA has a unique opportunity – and responsibility — to contribute to the global efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change,” says Sherrif Karamat, CAE, President and CEO, PCMA and CEMA and Immediate Past Chair of the EIC Board. “EIC’s Standards provide us with a framework to measure our event impact while guiding us to rethink how we plan and produce our work collectively. We now have the necessary baseline to create platforms and environments to drive sustainability leadership, and advocate for the importance of a sustainability by design approach.” 

EIC uses the standards of organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact.

House passes No Hidden Fees Act for Lodging

June 12, 2024—The lodging industry—from short-term rental platforms like Airbnb to online travel agencies, to metasearch sites and hotels—is a step closer to being required nationwide to tell guests upfront about mandatory fees.

The U.S. House of Representatives this week passed the No Hidden FEES Act in a bipartisan vote.

“It makes sense for all lodging businesses,” said American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey, whose organization has made it a major legislative priority to have such a federal mandate in order to create “an even competitive playing field.”

Despite a glare of negative publicity on hidden resort fees, AHLA’s most recent data shows only 6% of hotels nationwide charge a mandatory resort/destination/amenity fee, at an average of $26 per night. Fees tacked onto basic rental rates are common on short-term rental platforms and other sites that feature lodging.

To go into effect, a Senate version of the bill must yet be passed. It must then be signed by President Biden, whose administration has pushed for transparency in hidden fees charged to customers by corporations, including airlines. The Federal Trade Commission recently proposed a ban on junk fees that would make it illegal not to disclose the purpose of any extra fees a consumer is required to pay.

Visit Orlando Launches New Meetings Website

June 11, 2024—Visit Orlando has announced the creation of enhanced websites along with a new meetings website to better promote Orlando to meeting planners, attendees and travel professionals.

The website, OrlandoMeetings.com, will be a one-stop shop for meeting planners and offers vital information and resources for planners as well as the ability to submit RFPs.

Following considerable research to understand the needs of their patrons the VisitOrlando.com, OrlandoMeeting.com, VisitOrlando.org, MagicalDining.com are now available in Spanish, Portuguese, French Canadian and German.

“These new platforms are more than just websites — they serve as gateways to our destination for all of our unique audiences around the world, especially meeting planners and attendees,” says Casandra Matej, president & CEO, Visit Orlando. “As one of the first opportunities meeting planners have to connect with our destination and make decisions about how they spend their time and resources, it is critical we make the experience as helpful and meaningful as possible.”

New features include:

• Modern engaging design
• Better performance
• Multilingual support
• Interactive neighborhood maps

The new language websites can be found here:

• Spanish: es.VisitOrlando.com
• Portuguese: pt.VisitOrlando.com
• French Canadian: de.VisitOrlando.com 
• German: de.VisitOrlando.com

ASAE Honors Four Association Leaders as its 2024 Class of Fellows

June 11, 2024—Today, ASAE announced that four association leaders have been selected for its 2024 class of Fellows. Each year, the ASAE Fellows program recognizes and honors association leaders making notable, sustained contributions to both their own organizations and the association industry as a whole.

The 2024 ASAE Fellows are:

• Neal Couture, FASAE, CAE – CEO, The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)
• Rita Chen Fujisawa, MBA, FASAE, CAE – CEO/executive vice president, California Association of Health Facilities
• Sheri Sesay-Tuffour, PhD, ICE-CCP, CNED, FASAE, CAE – CEO, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
• Zack Wahlquist, MS, RCE, FASAE, CAE – CEO, Chicago Association of REALTORS^®

Cvent Passkey and FreedomPay Join Forces for Credit Card Security

June 11, 2024—Cvent, the leader of meetings, events and hospitality technology provider and FreedomPay, a leader in Next Level Commerce technologies, have shared an integration and payment tokenization initiative at Cvent CONNECT in San Antonio, Texas.

“Today’s buyers and suppliers want greater security, personalization and efficiency, and we’re proud to partner with a leading, global organization like Cvent, which shares in our commitment to ensuring each of those areas is not only addressed but prioritized. Our combined focus on innovation and dedication to data security represents the future of hospitality and group business,” says Nate Ware, SVP sales & Digital Development at FreedomPay.

The integration will allow for direct tokenization of credit card numbers, which helps hoteliers deter against payment fraud and data breaches.

Meet Hawai’i Launches New Website for Planners

June 10, 2024—Meet Hawai’i has announced the launch of a newly refreshed website to draw meetings, conventions and business groups to the Hawaiian Islands.

The Meet Hawai’i website offers one-stop destination portal for planners and now includes an interactive map of the Hawaiian Islands, unique venues, voluntourism experiences, sustainability programs and Hawaiian cultural learning and corporate social reasonability opportunities.

Cvent Acquires AI-powered Online Vendor and Supplier Sourcing Platform, Reposite

June 10, 2024—Cvent today announced its acquisition of Reposite, an AI-powered online vendor and supplier sourcing platform, in a move to expand its global vendor and supplier sourcing marketplace.

Reposite offers a curated database of over 35,000 vendor offerings, including transportation, restaurants, entertainment, staffing, gifting and more, along with RFP creation tools and AI-powered quote matching solutions. With this acquisition, Cvent will extend its sourcing offerings with Reposite’s diverse inventory of vendors to grow and expand the Cvent Vendor Marketplace; utilize Reposite’s AI-matching technology to pair planner RFPs with the best-fit suppliers based on geography, group size, event dates, target audience and more; and use the platform approach to streamline communication and improve efficiency for both event professionals and vendors.

Reposite co-founder Alexa Berube says, ““Cvent has been a driving force for the meetings and events industry and a long-time inspiration for our business. Since founding Reposite in 2020, our aim has always been to create a platform that fuels supplier discovery and seamlessly connects event and travel professionals to the critical vendors they need to deliver successful events.”

New Terminal Addition to Dubai Airport Will Make it Largest in the World

June 5, 2024—Dubai’s new terminal additions to Dubai World Center—AI Maktoum International Airport (DWC) will make it the biggest airport in the world. With a $35 billion budget to accommodate 260 million passengers, it is projected to be five times the size of your average airport according to Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The ruler confirmed this past Sunday that within the next 10 years, flight operations at the current Dubai International Airport will be shifted to the new Dubai World Center—AI Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

“Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub, and its new global center,” says Rashid Al Maktoum. 

Visit Seattle Hosts Record Setting LGBTQIA+ Vow Renewal Ceremony

June 4, 2024—To kick off Pride month, Seattle hosted 56 couples for a vow renewal ceremony on one of the Argosy famed cruised ships. The celebration took place on May 30th, which also set a world record for most LGBTQIA+ couples to renew their vows at once.

“It is a privilege to proclaim May 30 as Love For All Day in Seattle,” says Mayor Bruce Harrell. “We honor LGBTQIA+ love in Seattle, and we are proud to be a place where residents and visitors alike can celebrate who they are, and who they love, with the support of the community. Seattleites have a strong history of uplifting their LGBTQIA+ neighbors, leading the country when it comes to both rights work and Pride celebrations. Congratulations to the couples renewing their vows on the Love For All Boat, and to Seattle Pride on 50 wonderful years.” 

Visit Seattle partnered with 13 hotels to create welcome packages for the couples to assist in the events’ success.

Join EIC for a Panel Discussion on The Business Case for Sustainable Events

June 3, 2024—This Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 11 A.M. ET, EIC will hold a panel discussion to explore the business case for driving sustainability initiatives at events, alongside an update on the latest global regulations shaping ESG and sustainability in business.

A panel of experts will dig into the intersections between business, sustainability and regulatory compliance. Whether those who tune in are business leaders, sustainability advocates or business event professionals interested in their part in global sustainability goals, the webinar aims to be an enriching resource for those who seek to drive meaningful change.

The panel will be made up of:

• Felicia Asiedu, Market Director, Europe at CVENT
• John Davies, president, networks at GreenBiz Group
• Ben Goedegebuure, chief global strategy officer at Maritz
• Anita Howard, managing director at ICE (International Corporate Events)
• Emily Pierce, chief global officer and associate general counsel at Persefoni
• Ben Wielgus, head of sustainability at Informa
  

Gayle Murphy, chairperson of the EIC Sustainability and Social Impact Committee, will serve as moderator.

Register to join the webinar here.

Montgomery, Alabama, Introduces Micro Transit for Major Event Visitors

May 31, 2024—Downtown Montgomery has introduced a micro-transit solution to meet demand for transportation during its major events.

Available on Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store for $1.50, The M – Microtransit app lets attendees request on-demand rides in executive-style vans that take passengers to popular locations in the area, such as hotels, Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) and Montgomery Whitewater Park.

Inaugural Scholarship Event Honors DC Hospitality Students

May 30, 2024—The American Experience Foundation (AEF), the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington’s Educated Easts (RAMW), the Hotel Association of Washington, D.C.’s Washington Hospitality Foundation (HAWDC) and the Washington Area Concierge Association (WACA) came together to honor students and career professionals with foundation scholarships that offer more than $70,000 in financial support, as well as hands-on learning programs in their career journey.

“Working with students is one of the most important things to me, and as we look at our industry, our goal is to attract top talent from all backgrounds and show students that there is a lucrative career in hospitality and tourism,” says Elliott L. Ferguson, II, Destination DC’s president and CEO. “As we pool resources and demonstrate our commitment to the scholars in our high school career academies, our hope is to expand the options for students as they think about their future.”

The recipients of the scholarships are from DC high schools and alumni from the District’s career Academies of Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Mass Media, college students and young professionals.

Caesars Entertainment’s Atlantic City Resorts Donate to Local Community

May 30, 2024—The leadership of Caesars, Tropicana and Harrah’s Resort donated $140,000 to local organizations that include 200 Club of Atlantic and Cape May Counties, Avanzar, Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City, CASA (Count Appointed Special Advocates), and Community FoodBank of New Jersey – Southern Beach.

“For 45 years, Caesars Entertainment has remained committed to investing in our product, our workforce and giving back to the communities we serve. As the largest employer in the area, we remain dedicated to being strong partners to those making a difference in our region, where our guests and Team Members work, live and play. We are proud to present these incredible local organizations with grants from the Caesars Foundation this year, which will provide critical support for residents of Atlantic County,” says John Koster, Eastern Regional President, Caesars Entertainment.

The Caesars Foundation also donated $25,000 to the Boys and Girls Club to enhance the lives of the children and teams by way of educational programs and development opportunities.

JetBlue Announces Crew Base in Puerto Rico

May 29, 2024—JetBlue is expanding its reach by opening a base at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)  in San Juan, Puerto Rico to station up to 120 pilots and over 300 inflight crewmembers. This will increase the ease of travel between the states and the island, especially when it comes to inclement weather conditions. Both Warren Christie, chief operating officer of JetBlue, and Puerto Rico Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi are excited about the airline’s expansion, which is expected to be in operation by the end of 2024.

“We’re so excited to base hundreds more crewmembers right here in San Juan, where we are proud to be the largest airline with plans to grow even more,” says Christie. “The new crew base will support our operation as we grow and benefit the local economy in a place we are proud to call home.”

“This great announcement from JetBlue is a testament to the potential of our Island and the growth we have had in the tourism sector over the past three years,” says Pierluisi.

New CVB Formed in Atlanta Area

May 24, 2024—The East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, which was previously a member of the Atlanta Airport District CVB is now an independent destination marketing organization minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport representing 20 branded hotels in an area that includes Dick Lane Velodrome bicycle racing facility along with Georgia Sports Park. Situated adjacent to Tyler Perry Studios East Point has served as a backdrop for several award-winning movies and television series including “Stranger Things,” “Ozark,” “The Walking Dead,” “The Wonder Years” and “Hidden Figures.”

“We are excited to put East Point top of mind, both domestically and internationally, to establish ourselves as a unique premier destination,” said President Chantel Ross Francois.

Breeze Airways Announces Exponential Growth Plan

May 22, 2024—The relatively new airline Breeze Airways is expanding in a big way. Launched just three years ago in 2021, the airline currently offers around 132 weekly flights to less than 20 destinations out of T.F. Green International Airport. The new projected plan is slated to increase to 35 destinations with over 200 non-stop flights in the next five years. With the plan to have nine operating bases by the end of 2024, including three additions in Florida and three in New England, and an ambition for more domestic flights, both international and domestic, Breeze Airway CEO David Neeleman expresses his excitement about the expansion.

“Anywhere we can draw a seven-hour circle around Providence,” says Neeleman. “We have a lot of flexibility that we could do: Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, even some places in Central America.”

“We always say, if we’re going to add a city, we add four or five destinations — and if those fill up, we’ll keep adding. We see there’s a clear path to 35 different places we can fly to [from Providence]. The airport’s been supportive, the governor, everyone.”

Renewed FAA Authorization Boosts Air Safety, Passenger Rights

May 20, 2024—A five-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Authority signed into law by President Joe Biden mandates the hiring of more air-traffic controllers and safety inspectors at aircraft factories, increasing collision-avoidance technology at airports and enhancing access for passengers with disabilities.

It also reaffirms recent Department of Transportation rules that require airlines to issue automatic refunds when flights are delayed or canceled. Cash refunds will be given for domestic flights delayed more than three hours and international flights delayed more than six hours.

President Biden called the reauthorization “a big win for travelers, the aviation workforce, and our economy. It will expand critical protections for air travelers, strengthen safety standards, and support pilots, flight attendants, and air traffic controllers.”

The bill also prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for families to sit together.

New Orleans & Company Launches New Brand Campaign with Local Ad Agency Brand Society

May 20, 2024—New Orleans & Company, the official destination sales and marketing organization for the city of New Orleans, today launched a new multi-media campaign through collaboration with local ad agency, Brand Society. The campaign partners with several local entertainers and industry stars, and it is designed to attract visitors, create jobs in the area and overall propel New Orleans and Louisiana’s economy through its travel industry.

Brand Society Associate Creative Director/Copy Chief Lori Archer Smith wrote, in the brand manifesto, “She’s a place where you don’t just sight-see, you sight-feel. Although she’s filled with history, New Orleans never gets old…Once you visit New Orleans, you’re a part of New Orleans.”

The campaign also introduces a new loco, featuring a crescent moon in the city’s name to represent positive energy, optimism and abundance. The campaign will be made up of TV commercials, digital, radio and print advertising and a full identity kit. A list of iconic local talent is featured throughout the campaign. The full video playlist is available here.

New Orleans & Company President and CEO Walt Leger III says, “Our partners have done a tremendous job showcasing the things that makes New Orleans one of the most remarkable cities in the world…We believe that travel is essential, that it brings people together and changes people for the better, and that when people travel to New Orleans, they become a part of us and we become a part of them.”

Soundings Launches Career Coaching Services for Female Leaders

May 20, 2024—Talent acquisition platform Soundings has launched Soundings Elevate, a program that offers three career coaching services designed to help female event professionals advance their careers.

“I am deeply passionate about advancing the careers of women, not only as a female founder and business owner who has navigated these challenges but also as a leader who believes in the transformative power of diversity and inclusion for driving equity, innovation, and collective business success,” said Tracy Judge, founder and CEO of Soundings.

Soundings Elevate offers three coaching services:

• Strengths assessment and coaching: Participants gain access to Gallup’s StrengthsFinder assessment to identify their top five strengths. A professional coach will review the results and link the professional’s strengths to their career paths.
• Career accelerator: This three-month, cohort-based career development journey includes bi-weekly coach-led sessions. In addition to skill development, there’s also opportunity network and build lasting industry relationships.
• 1:1 coaching: A team of professional, certified coaches with industry knowledge are chosen to help individuals leverage their strengths and navigate any obstacles impeding their career goals.

San Francisco Travel President and CEO Resigns Abruptly

May 16, 2024—After holding the role for only seven months, Scott Beck has resigned at president and CEO of San Francisco Travel. According to SF Travel, Beck has stepped down for personal reasons.

Anna Marie Presutti, vice president and general manager of Hotel Nikko in San Francisco, is taking over as interim president and CEO. Presutti also was previously board chair for SF Travel; this role will be filled by John Anderson, general manager for San Francisco Marriott Marquis Hotel.

“San Francisco Travel will continue to be the champion of hospitality for all those who want to visit, enjoy, dine and work in one of the world’s best cities,” Presutti said. “Our board will conduct a search for a new CEO who embodies the spirt of San Francisco, is a skillful manager of a great team, and is experienced in attracting conventions, business travelers and tourists to great cities.”

ASAE Honors Susan Sarfati with Visionary Award at IMEX Frankfurt

May 16, 2024—In ASAE‘s ongoing efforts to increase awareness around the Power of Associations, ASAE’s President and CEO Michelle Mason presented Susan Sarfati, FASAE, CAE (Ret.) with the Visionary Award during the IMEX Gala Dinner on May 15th in Frankfurt Germany.

“ASAE and the association community owe Susan Sarfati a debt of gratitude for her visionary leadership and innovative thinking over her decades-long career,” says Mason, “Susan’s passion for associations and her driving commitment to advancing this vital sector around the world made her the obvious choice for ASAE’s inaugural Global Association Visionary Award.”

In her current work, Sarfati consults with associations around the world such as India, Uganda, Thailand, Malaysia and more!

“I am thrilled to be the inaugural recipient of the Global Association Visionary Award, and I couldn’t be more proud of ASAE’s expanding global presence,” Sarfati says. “Receiving this honor at IMEX is truly unforgettable – it’s a gathering where everyone is welcomed into a vibrant, innovative and socially conscious global community. What I’ve discovered [in my career] is that learning is a two-way street. Despite our differences in culture and background, people are fundamentally similar. Now, more than ever, the world needs us to bridge divides and reach out globally. Together, we can make a difference on a scale we’ve never imagined.”

Fontainebleau Miami Beach Unveils Coastal Convention Center

May 15, 2024—Fontainebleau Miami Beach is celebrating its new expansion with the opening of the Coastal Convention Center in Q4 of 2024. The five-story, 45,000 sq. ft. convention center will be able to accommodate events of any size.

In a collaboration between Fontainebleau Development, Nichols Architects and interior design firm Jeffrey Beers International, the modern design of the Coastal Convention Center does not neglect the spirit of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. According to the press release, the new addition incorporates the “architectural legacy” of the historical luxury resort.

“The Coastal Convention Center will be a jewel in the crown of Fontainebleau Miami Beach…a new magnificent home for business and leisure events along the oceanfront,” says Jeffrey Soffer, chairman and CEO of Fontainebleau Development. “This is the next evolution of our brand, further solidifying our role as a global hospitality leader.”

Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa Announces Hospitality Internship

May 14, 2024— Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Palm Coast, Florida, has announced its summer internship program in partnership with Florida State University’s Dedman School of Hospitality.

The program consists of a 13-week, paid internship with on-the-job experience in F&B and catering sales, as well as a project to complete throughout their internship. The internship begun in October 2022, and seeing major success since, the two collaborators are making it more widely known.

“Our goal is to provide a summer internship program that is rich in experiences in a positive and productive environment, with the ultimate goal to bring seasoned interns into full-time positions at our resort after the conclusion of their senior year at Florida State University,” says Managing Director Carlton Grant.

Convene and City Cruises Announce Partnership

May 14, 2024—Convene and City Cruises, operator of dining, sightseeing and private event cruises, announced a cross-referral partnership in select U.S. cities. This partnership will let Convene clients add experiential outings to their corporate events, as provided by City Cruises, and City Cruises to help clients source additional meeting or conference venues for their events.

“We’re in an experience-driven economy and are witnessing significant investment in experiences being prioritized over things,” said Phoenix Porcelli, CMP, head of sales at Convene. “Our relationship with a like-minded, highly experiential company like City Cruises allows us to provide Convene clients with an even greater comprehensive offering to curate an exceptional meeting or conference experience for all attendees.”

Clients from either Convene or City Cruises will receive preferred rates when adding additional experiences from the partnering company.

Convene and City Cruises are co-located in six U.S. cities: New York City; Chicago; Washington, D.C.; Philadelphia; Boston; and San Francisco.

Cvent Ranks Top Meeting Destinations and Hotels for 2024

May 14, 2024—Cvent published its 2024 lists of Top Meeting Destinations and Top Meeting Hotels, highlighting cities, hotels and venues taking steps to be leaders in event technology.

Cvent’s Top 10 Meeting Destinations are as follows:

1. Orlando
2. Las Vegas
3. Nashville
4. Dallas
5. San Diego
6. Chicago
7. Atlanta
8. Denver
9. Phoenix
10. Austin

It’s worth noting that Orlando was No. 1 in 2023, as well as 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019.

Nashville dominated the Top Meeting Hotels list in North America, accounting for four of five:

1. Grand Hyatt Nashville
2. Omni Nashville Hotel
3. JW Marriott Austin
4. JW Marriott Nashville
5. Renaissance Nashville Hotel

See the Cvent’s full list of Top Meeting Destinations here and Top Meeting Hotels here.

New Jersey Franchise Bill Moves Forward, Despite Concerns

May 13, 2024—Today, a committee in the New Jersey Assembly approved bill A3495, legislation that would decouple the connect and brand standards between hotel franchisor and franchisee. This bill is still being considered in the state Assembly and similar legislation, bill S2336 is pending in the state Senate.

American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President and CEO Kevin Carey, as well hoteliers, expressed concerns regarding the two bills. Many believing the two will result in lower brand standards across the board.

“If A3495 and S2336 become law, they will lower hotels’ quality, service, and safety standards and drive many brand-name hotels out of the state. On behalf of New Jersey’s more than 45,000 hotel employees, we urge lawmakers to rethink this flawed legislation and have a transparent debate about the extreme negative effects it would have on the state’s economy and its hoteliers,” Carey said.

 “We applaud the committee members who today rightly acknowledged that the bill must be amended before full Assembly consideration and before they will consider supporting it. Franchising is too critical to the success of the hotel industry for this to be rushed through the legislative process, and we will be working closely with state legislators to ensure they understand the dangers this bill poses to New Jersey’s tourism industry.”

Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, the bill’s sponsor, said AHLA and lawmakers are working on amendments to the bill to address hoteliers’ concerns.

The bills being introduced to New Jersey’s hospitality industry include the following:

• Require brand improvements such as Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, breakfast, etc., to be negotiated property by property, which will weaken brand standards.
• Allow hotel owners to use “comparable” products to those required by brands, which will weaken brand standards and lead to increased litigation as both parties try to determine what is comparable.
• Force hotels to allow their federally registered trademarks to be used on “comparable products,” undermining the value and destroying the trust in these trademarks.
• Undercut the loyalty points system that many brands use to reward loyal customers, which could force many brands to terminate these loyalty programs in New Jersey.

Association Forum Names Award to Honor Chris Mahaffey

May 7, 2024—Association Forum announced that its Inspiring Leader Award will now be named the Chris Mahaffey Inspiring Leader Award. This award is presented to an individual who has established a culture leading to employee satisfaction, motivation, engagement, and achievement. Chris Mahaffey, MS, CAE, FASAE, had a rich impact on the association community during his 45- year career. He was the CEO of Association Forum for 22 years and was responsible for many of the programs still thriving today. Under his leadership, the organization changed its name from the Chicago Society of Association Executives to Association Forum. Mahaffey also created Holiday Showcase, a signature event in its 36th year of success. Mahaffey died last year at the age of 69.

BCD M&E Uses AI Tool to Enhance Productivity

May 6, 2024—BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E) is introducing a new technology innovation, Assist. The goal of this new technology is to increase team productivity.

In a press release from BCD M&E, the company says “Assist has been developed to enhance productivity, streamline processes and provide valuable assistance in day-to-day tasks. At the same time, it prioritizes responsible AI and the security and privacy of data and intellectual property.”

Bruce Morgan, global president of BCD M&E, has high hopes for this technological venture.

“We firmly believe that Assist has the potential to significantly enhance our efficiency and effectiveness, and we are excited to explore its possibilities,” says Morgan. “As we continue to invest in technology to empower our teams around the world, our focus will be on ensuring compliance and data security.”

AHLA Report: Hotels Add 1,200 Jobs in April

May 3, 2024—Hotels in the United States added 1,200 jobs in April, according to the latest data by the U.S. Department of Labor. While numbers are increasing, this reflects hospitality employment numbers that are still far from pre-pandemic levels, which stood at 193,600 more employees in February 2020.

“Hotels are doing all they can to attract and retain workers, but the nationwide workforce shortage is preventing our industry from reaching its full potential,” said Kevin Carey, American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President and CEO.

“AHLA members need help filling open jobs so they can maintain and expand operations. The Department of Homeland Security can provide vital assistance by making available nearly 65,000 additional H-2B visas. Meanwhile, we are urging Congress to pass three important bills to help grow our nation’s workforce: the Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act, the H-2 Improvements to Relieve Employers (HIRE) Act, and the Closing the Workforce Gap Act.”

The bills Carey is referring to are designed to expand the hospitality workforce. Under the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, the Department of Homeland Security has been given the power to to make available 65,000 additional H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas; a power which the AHLA is urging the DHS to take advantage of.

Total hotel employment stands at roughly 1.92 million.

The Ritz-Carlton, Portland Achieves LEED Gold Certification

April 30, 2024—The Ritz-Carlton, Portland has achieved LEED Gold Certification as a result of its efforts to build a sustainably-conscious building and enact environmentally-friendly operations.

The hotel’s biophilic design showcases the abundant natural beauty of Oregon with strategically-chosen design features that pay tribute to the region’s natural surroundings. Select floors of the 35-story build feature outdoor terraces with an eco-roof, which is planted with low-water-requirement native and adaptive plant species that capture and store rainwater within the soil, helping reduce the urban heat island effect.

The hotel is also committed to water use reduction and a sustainable storm water systems through smart weather-based controllers to irrigate. From the onset of its construction, 75% of construction waste was recycled and diverted from landfills, and construction utilized low-emitting building materials in paint, insulation, and composite wood and flooring.

It’s LEED Gold Certification can be attributed to its energy efficiency measures derived from a building envelope and mechanical system. Proximity to local transportation and ample bike storage further achieve lower carbon emissions. Further sustainable updates include the anticipated addition of energy-efficient LED lighting and low-flow hot water heater fixtures.

Visit Lauderdale Announces Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at Convention Center

April 29, 2024—Visit Lauderdale has announced the expansion its partnership with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. The Broward County Convention Center recently signed on as the first convention center in North America to adopt the program. The ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Monday, April 29.

“Visit Lauderdale is committed to providing everyone a safe and supportive environment and has long championed inclusion and accessibility tourism by removing barriers in the travel experience for everyone,” says Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale.

All convention center employees will receive Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training. The center will also have a Zen Room dedicated to individuals with a hidden disability.

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for individuals with non-visible disabilities to share that they need extra assistance while traveling.

For more information on the Hidden Disabilities Program visit: https://hdsunflower.com/us/

Disney World Resort Restaurant is the First Theme-Park Dining Establishment to Win a Michelin Star

April 29, 2024—Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is home to Victoria & Albert’s, which was recently awarded a Michelin star. This award makes it the first dining establishment at any theme park to join the Michelin Guide. It joins 26 other restaurants in the state of Florida. The upscale restaurant offers prix-fixe menus start at $295 a person. Diners enjoy their meals among Victorian-theme murals and wallcoverings and under a ceiling adorned with flowers and butterflies. They must adhere to semi-formal or formal attire, and children under 10 are not allowed.

LVXP Announces Plans to Deliver Experiential Mixed-Use Development on Las Vegas Strip

April 29, 2024—Experiential-focused real estate development company LVXP has announced plans to transform a 27-acre site on the Las Vegas Strip located at 2601 South Las Vegas Boulevard. The site will be an immersive, technology-driven environment that will serve as an entertainment and sports arena complete with a retail plaza, convention space, a destination casino and several luxury hotels and residences. It will be strategically located across from the newly expanded Las Vegas Convention Center and will be adjacent to Fontainebleau Las Vegas and right by Resorts World Las Vegas.

The team spearheading the development is made up of experts in real estate, finance, marketing, technology, sports and entertainment. Chief Construction Officer Nick Tomasino most recently managed the construction of The Sphere as senior vice president of construction as Madison Square Garden Entertainment. Steelman Partners, Las Vegas-based entertainment and architecture firm, will design the architectural plans.

“We are honored to be stewards of this significant milestone in the city’s legacy, says CEO of LVXP, James R. Frasure, Jr.  “Our commitment is to create a destination that captures the essence of Las Vegas and provides lasting benefits for the community. For me, this endeavor is more than a project—it’s a promise to uphold the spirit of innovation and enthusiasm that defines our local culture.

Hard Rock International and Royal Caribbean Group Announce Partnership

April 26, 2024—Hard Rock International, Seminole Gaming, and Royal Caribbean Group brands Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have announced their global partnership that will allow travelers to take advantage of the combined amenities and discounts offered across the brands’ properties and cruise ships.

Through the rewards programs offered by the brands, Unity by Hard Rock, Royal Caribbean’s Club Royale and Celebrity Cruises’ Blue Chip Club, members will receive reciprocal benefits when they visit any Hard Rock location or set sail on any Royal Caribbean or Celebrity ship.

“Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are thrilled to help our valued guests and team members bring their love of entertainment, traveling, dining and gaming to the high seas through this incredible ‘no limits’ partnership with our South Florida neighbors at Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises,” said Jeff Hook, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Seminole Hard Rock Support Services.

According to a press release by Hard Rock International, this partnership includes the following:

• Unity by Hard Rock loyalty members will receive discounts on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity vacations and can qualify for invite-only cruise giveaways. Top-tier loyalty members will also receive an annual complimentary cruise on select ships and itineraries.
• Club Royale and Blue Chip Club members receive exclusive discounts and perks at participating Hard Rock locations, including annual complimentary trips at select Hard Rock hotels and casinos worldwide for premium tier Club Royale and Blue Chip members.

GBTA joins Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative

April 24, 2024—Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the business travel and meetings trade organization, has joined Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE), the worldwide event industry initiative to address climate change as a supporter of the campaign.

Since its launch at Cop 26 in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2021, NZCE has developed a comprehensive portfolio of resources to support events industry organizations toward achieving net zero carbon emissions. These include a Roadmap and advisory reports on Venue Energy; Smart Production and Waste Management; Logistics; Travel and Accommodation; Food and Food Waste; Offsetting and Measurement.

With the campaign now focused on implementation in each of these areas, GBTA and NZCE will be working together with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) on implementing the Travel and Accommodation element.

“GBTA has unparallelled expertise and experience in the technical aspects of business travel and sustainability, especially through the Sustainability Initiative of the GBTA Foundation,” said James Rees, president of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), which is driving the NZCE initiative for the industry. “It is also a tremendous testimonial to the framework that NZCE has developed that GBTA will be using this for their own events in future.”

Suzanne Neufang, CEO of GBTA, commented, “We are pleased to be part of the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative and working with the JMIC and other key organizations to bring the power of our collective efforts to ensure more net zero-focused approaches to the very significant sector of meetings and events.”

Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, said: “It’s crucial that the meetings and events community as a whole joins forces to advance sustainable practices and policies around the globe, and as more organizations come on board, we get closer to our goal of net zero by the year 2050.”

NZCE is open to all organizations involved in events. Registration is free of charge, but financial contributions are sought to develop the campaign.

California Senator Promotes Bill Against Clear (YOU)

April 23, 2024—California Senator Josh Newman is sponsoring a bill to ban Clear (YOU), a yearly subscription membership for airline passengers to skip lengthy security lines. In Newman’s opinion, this is a “basic equity issue” that will cause customer dissatisfaction amongst travelers.

“It’s about dignity in the travel experience of people who don’t have money to pay for upsell services,” says Newman. “The least you can expect when you have to go through the security line at the airport is that you don’t suffer the indignity of somebody pushing you out of the way to let the rich person pass you.”

While the bill has support from both democratic and republican representatives in California, airlines are mostly opposed. Major airlines including United, Alaska and Delta argue that the dissolvement of their partnership with Clear (YOU) will hinder the way in which airports handle security lines and cause loss of revenue.

FFAIR Expands Into North America

April 23, 2024—Multiple award-winning event technology platform FFAIR today announced its official expansion into North America. Just recently, it entered into its first transatlantic partnership with event registration company EventsPass.

FFAIR provides a centralized, multi-supplier shop and exhibitor manual that aims to simplify the exhibiting experience by providing access to pre-, onsite and post-event operational and marketing essentials, streamlining time-consuming tasks, promoting sustainable event choices and boosting revenue for event organizers. Its headquarters will remain in the UK while the company opens a new office location in Seattle.

FFAIR will be exhibiting at Event Tech Live Las Vegas May 1-2, 2024.

Brightline West Breaks Ground on High-speed Rail Connecting Las Vegas and Southern California

April 22, 2024—Brightline West officially broke ground on a high-speed train station that will connect Las Vegas to Southern California.

The project, which was awarded $3 billion from President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, will create transportation that will run on zero emission, electric trains that can travel at up to 200 miles per hour.

More than 600 people attended the event, including union representatives, project supporters and other state and local officials from California and Nevada. The ceremony included comments from U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Brightline Founder Wes Edens, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, Nevada Sens. Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades—and now, with billions of dollars of support made possible by President Biden’s historic infrastructure law, it’s finally happening,” said Secretary Buttigieg. “Partnering with state leaders and Brightline West, we’re writing a new chapter in our country’s transportation story that includes thousands of union jobs, new connections to better economic opportunity, less congestion on the roads, and less pollution in the air.”

In addition to the Las Vegas stop, there will also be stops in Victor Valley, Hesperia and Rancho Cucamonga in California. The project is set for completion in 2028.

Raleigh Convention Center Drives Forward Expansion Project

April 22, 2024—Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, has announced two new partnerships to complete the team working on its expansion project. With this team in place, the project is now estimated to be completed in 2028.

Clancy & Theys, Shanska, D.A. Everett Joint Venture will act as construction manager. It will be joined by architecture firm TVS and local partner RATIO Design to design and build the project. Cumming Group and their MWBE partner Cate Services will act as owner’s representative.

This expansion will grow the convention center by a full city block, adding 80,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space and 30 additional breakout rooms. Sister venue Red Hat Amphitheater will shift slightly southward, and this shift is anticipated to be completed in 2026.

Visit Milwaukee Unveils New Brand, Logo

April 17, 2024—Created after two years of research, surveys and interviews, Visit Milwaukee has its first new brand and logo since 2005. It’s anchored to messaging themes about the Wisconsin city of “fresh, flavor and forward.”

“This new brand captures so much of what makes Milwaukee unique—our fresh coast and big ideas, our cultures that create the local flavor that makes us interesting, and the energy and celebration that are giving us so much forward momentum right now,” says Josh Albrecht, Visit Milwaukee’s Vice President of Marketing & Communications.

The new logo is a stacking of three iterations of the letter M. The top line stands for the city’s heartbeat and energy. The middle celebrates its Lake Michigan coastline, rivers and wind. The third represents the area’s diversity and the “combined strength of every person and culture represented here.”

Visit Milwaukee President & CEO Peggy Williams-Smith credits “all of the thoughtful feedback and ideas that local leaders, businesses, frontline staff, and thousands of residents contributed to the research phase of this work.”

Oakland International Airport to Change Name, SFO Promises to Sue 

April 16, 2024—Oakland International Airport (OAK)‘s Board of Commissioners have voted this week to rename the airport San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) officials have expressed in no uncertain terms they will be pursuing legal action should this decision be approved in a second vote on May 9th.

In a press release from Danny Wan, executive director of the Port of Oakland, he states “I’m very pleased with today’s unanimous board approval, especially as a proud Oaklander myself who wants to enhance economic activity and local jobs for Oakland.” Kaley Skantz, a spokeswoman for Oakland International Airport, is also in support of the name change to improve awareness of the airport and improve “the lack of geographic awareness among inbound travelers.”

“SFO cannot lay claim to the geographically descriptive term ‘San Francisco,’ let alone claim exclusive rights to the San Francisco Bay,” says Mary Richardson, an attorney for the Port of Oakland. However, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu disagrees.

“The names ‘San Francisco Airport’ and ‘San Francisco “International Airport’ are famous and highly recognizable among consumers in connection with the airport services that only SFO provides,” says Chiu. “While the proposed new name is very likely to cause confusion and mistakes broadly, the problem will be particularly acute for an audience of international travelers who may not speak or read English. Those international travelers comprise an essential part of SFO’s consumer base.”

UPDATE April 18, 2024—This afternoon, the city of San Francisco pursued legal action against the City of Oakland for its plan to include “San Francisco” in its airport name. San Francisco City attorney David Chiu has filed a federal trademark infringement lawsuit, alleging that the proposed name change would infringe on San Francisco International Airport’s (SFO) trademark.

MPI Announces Aloe Blacc Performance at WEC President’s Dinner

April 16, 2024—Meeting Professionals International (MPI) announced that the entertainment for its annual President’s Dinner at World Education Congress will be Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Aloe Blacc. The event will be May 21 at Mellwood Art Center in Louisville, Kentucky and will honor MPI Volunteer Chapter Leaders and MPI’s Industry Leader Award winner Steve O’Malley. The event will also recognize the 2024 RISE Award winners.

Blacc, who is known for the songs “I Need  Dollar,” “The Man” and “Wake Me Up,” which has been streamed over 2 billion times, uses his platform for positive social transformation. He describes his music as A.I.M. to represent affirmation, inspiration and motivation.

EIC and Oak View Group Announce Strategic Partnership

April 15, 2024—Events Industry Council (EIC) announced a partnership with Oak View Group to further its commitment to sustainability and support its clients and partners to achieve their green meetings goals.

The EIC Sustainable Event Standards are a collection of eight specific standards that assess events and industry suppliers on a wide range of sustainability criteria. This partnership will provide the platform for further EIC initiatives through OVG event venues, including Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) training, Sustainable Event Professional Certification (SEPC) training and further learning and development programs. Through collaboration with the GOAL platform (Green Operations & Advanced Leadership), which supports continuous data collection and analysis across the convention center portfolio, properties can reach their sustainability objectives through best practice sharing, measurement tools and on-site consulting.

The partnership with EIC provides high-profile strategic recognition and thought leadership opportunities to collaborate with EIC on its CMP, CMP Fellows and sustainability programs. OVG plans to certify its entire convention portfolio of 60+ venues in phases.

“This partnership is grounded in our shared goals of promoting event industry excellence, advancing uniform standards of practice and setting the highest standards for professional and personal growth for those in our industry,” says EIC CEO Amy Calvert. “We are thrilled to work with Oak View Group to certify their convention centers to EIC’s Sustainable Event Standards.”

Beverly Wilshire Brings Holograms into Suites in New Partnership

April 15, 2024—Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in California has brought hologram technology into its penthouse and presidential suites, in partnership with Proto, a holographic communications platform.

The M, the device found in Beverly Wilshire’s suites, will be able to live beam a guest experience team member into the room at the guest’s discretion. Both the guest and staff will be able to see each other and communicate in real-time.

“We are elated to provide our guests with yet another way to communicate with us. Based on the guest preference, we can communicate in person, through the Four Seasons Chat, text, a call and now by beaming via hologram into their room” says Director of Guest Experience Serge Sturbois.

The Breakers Palm Beach Named by Fortune Magazine One of 100 Best Companies to Work for in US

April 15, 2024—The Breakers Palm Beach was included among Fortune magazine’s list of 100 Best Companies to Work for^® in the U.S. in 2024, announced by Fortune Media^® and Great Place to Work^®. It rises to No. 59 in its second consecutive year on the list, and the only independent hotel to rank.

As a family-owned resort in 1896, The Breakers’ is recognized for its purpose driven culture and investment in employee-wellbeing through meaningful programs and initiatives to team members.

L.A. Hotel Strike: 34 Down, 30 to Go

April 12, 2024—Southern California hospitality workers represented by Unite Here Local 11 have given an overwhelming thumbs up to a new contract with 34 hotels. Another 30 properties without agreements with the union are still strike targets.

Under the new deal, which runs until Jan. 15, 2028, workers will get more pay, better employer contributions to their pensions and more favorable workload guarantees, according to the union.

The union said room attendants, cooks and other nontipped workers will get stepped wage hikes totaling $10 an hour, to $35 an hour by July 2027. Cooks will be paid as much as $41 an hour. Automatic 20 percent gratuities at full-service hotel restaurants will be shared with all restaurant staff.

The new contract keeps health insurance for workers that caps the employee contribution at $20 a month for full family coverage.

“We have won a life-changing contract that transforms hotel jobs from low-wage service work to middle-class professional positions,” said Kurt Petersen, copresident of Local 11.

A spokesperson for California Hotel & Lodging Association told the Associated Press, “The ratification votes are a long time coming. We’re glad that hotel employees who have been waiting months now can enjoy the benefits of new contracts, including increased compensation, and continue the great work they do for our guests and our communities.”

More than 10,000 employees in greater Los Angeles began rolling strikes at 52 hotels in July 2023.

Orlando’s Poet Laureate Composes Poem for GMID

April 11, 2024—In honor of GMID, Visit Orlando partnered with Orlando’s poet Laureate, Shawn Welcome, to create a poem to highlight the importance of in-person meetings and the positive impact the industry has on destination’s community, local businesses and the economy.

Click here to hear the poem.

ALTOUR Merges Four MICE Businesses Under YES Brand

 April 11, 2024—ALTOUR, the corporate travel division of Internova Travel Group, a major global travel services company, today announced the merger of all its meetings, incentives, conference and exhibitions businesses under the YES (Your Event Solutions) brand. 

The new entity will include YES, an event planning agency founded in the United Kingdom; the MICE divisions of ALTOUR and Travel Leaders Corporate in the United States; and On Tempo, the event planning division of Corporate Travel Services, based in Mexico City.

As a single unified brand, YES will enable ALTOUR to offer enhanced services, greater buying power and increased global service offerings for MICE programs, the company says.

“The merging of these four powerhouse MICE businesses is the culmination of many months of hard work and planning by dozens of team members all around the world,” said Sue Gill, founder of YES. “Since starting this incredible business from my bedroom back in 2001, I’m amazed at what our passionate team has accomplished. I couldn’t be prouder to finally say that YES is truly better together!”

The combined businesses of YES have already delivered experiences to 226,200 attendees at more than 7,675 events across 66 countries in the last 12 months.

Satisfi Labs, Merges with Live Entertainment and Attractions AI Provider

April 11, 2024—Satisfi Labs, a leading AI powered Conversational Experience Platform, has announced it is mering with the leading provider of AI-powered concierge services focused in live entertainment and attractions.

Satisfi Labs will also be naming a new Head of Entertainment during this time. Satisfi Labs works with over 500 clients around sports, tourism and entertainment. Last year, Satisfi Labs launched Context LLM Repsponse Team, merging patent-pending contextual repsonse technology with larger language model capabilities to strength the Answer Engine system.

Cookie Smoak, President of ATL Airport District, Announces Retirement

April 10, 2024—Cookie Smoak, president of ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors, announced her plan to retire Sept. 30, 2024, after spending 11 years with the organization and 46 years within the hospitality and tourism industries.

“It is with mixed emotions that I announce I will retire as president of the ATL Airport District (CVB), Smoak says. “I assure you that this decision was a well-thought-out and difficult one to make. The last 10 and a half years with this organization and team have been the most rewarding in my 46-year career, and I consider it my greatest professional accomplishment,” said Smoak in a message to her team. “Together, we have created a collaborative, high-performing and successful team with a culture based on trust and respect for each other. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for this team!”

Smoak has received several noteworthy accolades and achievement throughout her tenure in the industry. Most recently, she was awarded the Georgie Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus’ Larry Allen Tourism Leadership Awards. She was also the first woman in the tourism industry to be granted one of Atlanta Magazine’s Women Making a Mark Awards. In 2023, she was recognized as an influential leaders in Georgia Trend’s Georgia 500 list.

Smoak says she plans to work with the executive committee to find the right replacement to step into She adds: “The great news is that my replacement will inherit the most incredible team I have ever had the privilege of leading, and will have the opportunity to work with some of the most outstanding businesses, entrepreneurs, attractions and facilities the state of Georgia has to offer.”

Cox Announces New Contract with Las Vegas Convention Center

April 9, 2024—Cox Business/Hospitality Network has announced a new five-year contract with an optional five-year extension that will offer wireless and wired telecommunications and Distributed Antenna System (DAS) services to the Las Vegas Convention Center Visitors Authority (LVCVA).

“Cox provides advanced telecom services to iconic world-class convention centers and resort properties throughout Las Vegas and around the country,” says Mark Greatrex, president of Cox Communications. “We look forward to continuing to deliver an elevated customer experience for Las Vegas Convention Center and millions of guests.”

In the new contract, Cox will provide service to 4.6 million sq. ft. of convention space and meeting rooms space at Las Vegas Convention Center.

IAEE, MPI and SITE Re-Launch Global MICE Collaborative

April 9, 2024—IAEE, MPI and SITE have announced the re-launch of The Global MICE Collaborative, a joint imitative aiming to advance global meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE).

“The Global MICE Collaborative brings three of the industry’s best-known associations—IAEE, MPI and SITE—together to provide the global community of business events’ professionals with a ‘best of’ collaboration, initially focused on education. MPI brings networking, thought leadership and education for Meetings, SITE for Incentives and IAEE for Conventions and Exhibitions. We bring indispensable connections to our combined communities of over 110,000 MICE professionals located all over the world,” says IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM.

The Collaborative will re-launch with a keynote on Business & Event Trends for MICE Professionals at The Meeting Show, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, April 17-18, 2024.

Destinations International Announces Partnership with Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada

April 4, 2024—Destination International (DI) has announced a new partnership with Indigenous tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). The goal of the partnership is to deepen understanding and appreciation of Indigenous tourism through means of education and authentic engagement.

“Through our partnership with Destinations International, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous tourism and its cultural significance within the global travel industry,” says Keith Henry, President & CEO of ITAC.  “Through education and raising awareness of The Original Original mark of excellence, we empower destinations to authentically engage with Indigenous tourism business owners, thereby enriching the travel experience for visitors while promoting economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples. Further, Destinations International’s strategic priorities for destination organizations in 2024 align with ITAC’s vision to help make Canada become the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030.”

The partnership is a big step towards encouraging destinations to work with Indigenous tourism businesses in an authentic way.

ALHI Acquires 62ABOVE to Expand Global Services

April 3, 2024—Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) announced today in a press release that it will be acquiring 62ABOVE, a San Diego based marketing agency providing clients with services such as strategy, media and public relations. The acquisition is designed to broaden and build ALHI’s global sales organization and utilize the expertise of 62ABOVE to grow its clientele and provide the best services possible.

“We are excited that we can now offer 62ABOVE’s expertise and its full range of marketing,” says President and CEO of ALHI, Michael Dominguez. “62ABOVE completes a critical segment of our comprehensive service portfolio.”

62ABOVE president and COO Greg Carson shares similar excitement about the acquisition. “The transition will be seamless for our clients. And we’re thrilled to work with ALHI to bring its research and insights to new and existing clients.”

Destinations International Names ‘30 Under 30’ Class

April 3, 2024—Destinations International Foundation and Destinations International, the global trade association for CVBs and tourism boards, has announced its “30 Under 30” class of young professionals in the destinations industry. This year’s honorees are primarily from U.S.-based organizations, but they also include representatives from Puerto Rico, Canada, Ireland and Switzerland.

“The ‘30 Under 30’ program remains critical to our organization’s vision and mission,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “As our industry moves toward recovery, we are especially excited to announce these young professionals as they are the future of the travel and tourism industry.”

“We are thrilled to see the ‘30 Under 30’ Program enter its 14th year, and we are thankful for the foundation investors who make programs like these possible for our industry through their contributions,” said Ellie Westman Chin, CDME, president and CEO of Destination Madison and chair of the Destinations International Foundation. “We look forward to engaging with this group of emerging leaders through professional development, educational opportunities and networking with industry peers and leaders throughout the year and in the years to come.”

The 2024 “30 Under 30” Class:

• Alexandria Eady, Content Manager, Richmond Region Tourism
• America Segura, Public Relations Manager, Visit Corpus Christi

• Andrew Lawrence, Assistant Director, Arlington Sports Commission, Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau

• Brittany Jones, Marketing Project Manager, Discover Durham

• Caitlin Neal, Marketing Director, Gilmer Chamber/Pick Ellijay

• Catherine Streater, Senior Coordinator, Brand USA

• Cristina Fernandes, Leisure Sales Coordinator, Discover Puerto Rico

• Fallon Tullier, Research and Technology Manager, Visit Baton Rouge

• Hailey Post, Destination Data Manager, Visit Raleigh

• Ian Wallis, Sales & Marketing Manager, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Tourism

• Jessica VanDeMar, Marketing Manager, Visit Finger Lakes

• Kasmara Freiderich, National Sales Manager, Experience Rochester, MN

• Katie Clarke, People and Culture Coordinator, Destination Vancouver

• Lee Prutsman, Senior Marketing Manager, Visit KC

• Luke Alexopoulos, Senior Public Relations Manager, Visit Eau Claire

• Macy Dolton, Content Marketing Specialist, Destination DC

• Maggie Carter, Creative Marketing Manager, Visit Baltimore

• Martin Garneau, Senior Manager, Systems Architecture and Application Development, Banff & Lake Louise Tourism

• Mary Coryell, Manager, Partner Relations, Discover Lehigh Valley

• Megan Myers, Digital Media Director, Hocking Hills Tourism Association

• Megane Simone, Bid & Communication Manager, Geneva Tourism & Conventions Foundation

• Millie Stewart, Director of Sales, Visit Ogden

• Nathaniel Sweetman, Sports Marketing Coordinator, Visit Sarasota County

• Orla Moule, Business Events Assistants, Fáilte Ireland

• Samantha Green Ewald, Destination Services Manager, Visit Charlotte/Charlotte Regional Visitor’s Authority

• Sheridan Powell, Communications Specialist, Visit Colorado Springs

• Sydney Macapagal, Digital Content Strategist, Visit Galveston

• Sydney Patterson, Marketing Manager, Visit Fort Worth

• Wayne Stewart, Director of Marketing & Communications, Visit Casper

• Wesley Sosa, Graphic Designer and Brand Manager, Visit Stockton

To learn more about each honoree, click here.

The “30 Under 30” program is supported by founding program partner SearchWide Global and sponsored by Fired Up! Culture and IMEX.

Air Line Pilots Association Requests Voluntary Leave from United

April 2, 2024—Due to several incidents with Boeing carriers issued to United Airlines, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) announced yesterday that pilots should consider unpaid voluntary leave.

Several cracked windshields and toilet overflows have happened within the last week, following very recent issues that have led federal regulations increasing the oversight of United’s Boeing carriers, such as outer fuselage falling off jets, engine fires and lost tires on the tarmac.

“Due to recent changes to our Boeing deliveries, the remaining 2024 forecast block hours for United have been significantly reduced,” the Air Line Pilots Association wrote, according to CNBC. “While the delivery issues surround our 787 and 737 fleets, the impact will affect other fleets as well.”

Norse Atlantic Adds Las Vegas-London Gatwick Flight

March 28, 2024—Norse Atlantic Airways has announced the launch of their first flight from Las Vegas (LAS) to London Gatwick (LGW). The first flight will commence on September 12, 2024.

“We are hugely excited to celebrate the launch of our new service from Las Vegas to London Gatwick, offering travelers from America yet more choice to fly in comfort and style—at amazing, affordable prices,” says Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways. “London Gatwick is a fantastic commercial hub for travelers who need to reach London quickly or are flying off to other European destinations and it’s a fantastic addition to our portfolio.”

Once arriving at London Gatwick, passengers can take a 30-minute train ride to London to enjoy the wide selection of galleries, museums, bars and restaurants.

ConferenceDirect partners with Sessionboard

March 27, 2024—ConferenceDirect, the Folsom, Calif.-based provider of conference and event planning services has formed a strategic partnership with Sessionboard, the speaker and content management company headquartered in San Diego, to offer Sessionboard’s technology platform to its clientele of conference planners and event marketing teams.

The partnership reflects “a shared vision of leveraging technology to simplify complexities in event management and content delivery,” according to a press release.

ConferenceDirect customers will now have access to Sessionboard’s tools designed to optimize the planning and execution of events, including streamlining the call for papers process, abstract evaluation, agenda management, speaker and sponsor communication, asset collection and content integration.

Bellagio Fountain Club Returns to Vegas Strip for F1 2024

March 26, 2024—MGM Resorts International has announced in a press release that Bellagio Fountain Club at Bellagio Hotel and Casino will return for the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024, occurring from November 21st through Nov. 23rd, 2024. Tickets are now on sale for one of the most prestigious racing events operating in America. With views of the track and the fountain, the Bellagio Fountain Club promises to be a luxurious front row seat to the F1 festivities.

“Bellagio Fountain Club’s debut at last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix event surpassed all expectations,” said Andrew Lanzino, MGM Resorts International’s vice president of citywide events strategy. “Following the incredible reception from our guests last year, the team is hard at work crafting plans for an even more exceptional experience when racing’s most exciting event returns to Las Vegas.”

AMEX GBT Will Acquire CWT

March 25, 2024—American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) announces that it has entered an agreement to acquire global business travel and meeting solutions provider, CWT, for an approximately $570 million cash-free, debt-free transaction value. The transaction will be funded by a combination of stock and cash. Subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2024.

Following the acquisition, CWT’s 4,000 customers would have access to Amex GBT’s software and services for travel and expense, including to the broadest portfolio of professional services, including meetings and events, consulting and sustainability solutions. CWT CEO Patrick Anderson says, “Joining forces with Amex GBT helps accelerate our vision of a tech-enabled future for business travel, where people and technology combine to deliver an exceptional customer experience.” Amex GBT CEO Paul Abbott added, “Bringing CWT onto the proven Amex GBT software and services model will create more choice for customers, more opportunities for people and more value for shareholders.”

The acquisition is expected to deliver significant shareholder value. Approximately $155 million of annual run-rate synergies within three years is predicted, 35% of which is expected to be realized in 2024, and a dedicated integration team will execute the synergy plan. In the first year of transaction close, it is expected to break even in earnings per share, and become accretive thereafter.

Hawaii Visitors May Soon Pay Fee to Fight Climate Change

March 25, 2024—A new tourist fee in Hawaii got closer to becoming reality in recent weeks. Two committees in the state’s House of Representatives have voiced strong support for imposing a $25 fee for visitors, which would be used to address climate change-related issues like flooding, coral erosion, wildfires and other environmental problems, according to news reports.

Separately, the Hawaii Senate has been considering a different bill, SB304, variously referred to a “green fee” or “conservation fee,” that would require visitors who use the islands’ public beaches, trails, parks and other natural resources to pay an annual tourist impact fee of $50. That body took up the measure last year, but shelved it until reviving it in January.

Gov. Josh Green has also campaigned in favor of such an idea.

At a recent session of the House Energy and Environmental Protection Committee last month, a representative from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) raised concerns about how such funds would be collected.

“It’s important to note that if we’re going to honor the intent of this bill, which is to capture the impact of guests … to our islands, then we need to make sure that we’re not ignoring everyone who’s visiting us here,” the AHLA spokesperson testified. “If we’re collecting only at our hotels, because effectively we know that it will be the hotels that will follow up on collecting any additional tax, we’re ignoring the tens of thousands of illegal short-term rentals that are really driving the public’s concern around the impacts of overtourism.”

Opponents of such a fee worried that the islands’ economy has yet to bounce all the way back from pandemic levels, and that the added cost could negatively impact visitor numbers.

For any such tax to be levied, the enabling bill must pass in both legislative chambers and be signed by the governor.

The White House Recognizes The Venetian and The Just One Project’s ‘Food Rescue Alliance’

March 25, 2024—During a White House briefing in late February, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff named “Food Rescue Alliance” as one of the 141 initiatives that are a part of the White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities by 2030.

Since being set in 2022 by President Biden the project has received $1.7 billion in new commitments from partnerships.

“The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is committed to helping its community members in need and to underscore our dedication to social responsibility, we’re honored to partner with The Just One Project to further eliminate hunger in our community,” said Patrick Nichols, president and CEO of The Venetian Resort Las Vegas.

“Our team members saw an opportunity to increase our food donation efforts after large conventions and tradeshows, and we knew it was something we had to do. The Food Rescue Alliance collaboration will more than double the number of our healthy meals that are accessible to individuals and families in our community. It is a program that makes us all very proud to be Venetians.”

The Venetian Resort has been at the helm of food rescue since 2014, but this new program, launched in late 2023, is designed to better serve the community by increasing the number of meals rescued on property from trade shows, conventions and meetings.

JetBlue Shrinks Routes After Failed Spirit Merger

March 20, 2024—JetBlue will no longer fly to and from Kansas City and is reducing South American routes originating from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). JetBlue also announced it will not be resuming service to Newburgh, NY, which it suspended during the pandemic.

The reshuffling of its schedule comes in the wake of a federal judge’s rejection of its proposed merger with Spirit Airlines. In a statement, the airline said it is “constantly evaluating our routes to best serve our customers, return our airline to profitability, and find ways to improve our reliability.” In an internal memo leaked to the press, JetBlue said it was refocusing on what it called “bread and butter” routes on the East Coast, the Caribbean and cross-country flights. The airline posted a decline in revenues and a net loss in its most recent quarter.

Sphere Announces First Keynote Event With Hewlett Packard

March 20, 2024—Las Vegas’ Sphere is set to have its first non-entertainment event. On June 18, a keynote address by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) President and CEO Antonio Neri will take place, as part of HPE Discover 2024 at The Venetian Convention and Expo Center June 17-21.

“Sphere is where the world’s biggest artists, and now the biggest brands, go when they want to create an experience unlike any other,” said Jennifer Koester, president, Sphere Business Operations at Sphere Entertainment. “Sphere is a next-generation medium and a powerful platform for companies to educate and demonstrate—connecting with their audiences in a way they can only do at Sphere. The HPE keynote will leverage the venue’s cutting-edge technologies to deliver a bespoke experience that sets a new bar for brand storytelling and corporate events.”

Qatar Airways Announces World’s First AI Cabin Crew

March 19, 2024—Qatar Airways presented Sama 2.0, the second generation of its virtual holographic cabin crew at the world’s leading travel trade show, ITB Berlin 2024. Sama, meaning “sky” in Arabic, caused ripples throughout the trade show with its ability to interact with both visitors and media according to a press release from Qatar Airways. Qatar Airways has partnered with UneeQ, an innovator of AI digital human technology, to make this vision come to life.

“Sama embodies UneeQ’s commitment to blending technology with empathy and personalization, providing an innovative solution that aligns with Qatar Airways’ reputation for world-class service,” says Danny Tomsett, CEO for UneeQ. “She’s a testament to the endless possibilities of AI, capable of delivering personalized and engaging interactions that mirror human conversation.”

March 18, 2024—The Event Technology Awards (ETA), has announced the finalists for the US and Canada awards here. According to ETA, the finalists “put forward outstanding submissions, representing a diverse range of companies and solutions that demonstrate excellence, creativity and impact within the event tech sector.”

The winners will be revealed at Event Tech Live Las Vegas on May 1st, 2024 to celebrate the event techs at the top of their field from US and Canada. Co-founder of ETA Adam Parry expresses excitement for the event.

“The caliber of entries for the Event Technology Awards US & Canada is truly exceptional,” says Parry. “Congratulations to all the finalists and we look forward to crowning the winners at Event Tech Live Las Vegas.”

Southwest Admits to Issues and Announces Hiring Freeze for 2024

March 18, 2024—After the breakdown of Southwest Airlines operations during the 2022 holiday season where thousands of people were left stranded, the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) has made it clear with the union’s dissatisfaction with the organization and efficiency of the airline. Although the airline has invested $1.3 billion for improving infrastructure and IT, Captain Casey Murray, union president of SWAPA, says this won’t fix everything.

“None of that is going to solve the process problems of connecting pilots and airplanes,” says Murray. “There has to be a refocusing on efficiency.”

Chief Executive of Southwest Airlines Bob Jordan says the airline is improving and regaining the trust of its customers as well as coming to agreements with the pilot’s union. “We also made significant progress on our labor agreements, including the ratification earlier this week of an agreement that secures industry-leading pay for our best-in-class pilots,” says Jordan.

While Southwest is regaining its footing, it does not expect to receive all the planes from Boeing and therefore has cut overall hiring by 50% in 2024. “This is not business as usual,” says Jordan. “We are being very aggressive in controlling what we can control.”

Visit Boise Celebrates the Life of Bobbie Patterson

March 15, 2024—Bobbie Patterson, a longtime leader in the tourism, meetings and conventions industry and executive director of the Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau for over 30 years, passed away on March 2, 2024. In addition to serving for over three decades as executive director of the Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau, she became the first female chair of IACVB (now Destinations International) in 1998. She was inducted into the Destinations International Hall of Fame in 2015. Visit Boise and the entire Boise hospitality community remembers her avid dedication to the industry and enthusiastic membership and advocacy for the destination.

ECEP Will Hold 3rd Annual Symposium in Charleston This March

March 14, 2024—From March 17-24, 2024, members of Elite Catering + Event Professionals (ECEP) will gather in Charleston, South Carolina for the third annual symposium to explore a wide range of issues the industry is facing in the present day.

There, top leaders in hospitality will attend education sessions strategically designed to support, encourage and inform attendees on future advocacy actions to benefit the industry, from succession planning to mastering media recognition to collaborative creativity. There will also be a robust lineup of business sessions on sales, marketing, operations and beyond.

Charleston is a strategic destination choice, having inspired the event’s educational and culinary themes. “Charleston has a rich and diverse culinary heritage,” says ECEP President, Michael Stavros. “We’ll be celebrating this in many ways during our time here, from keynote speakers such as Jessica Harris, author of ‘Same Boat, Different Stops,’ to events hosted at historic venues like the Thomas Bennett House with cuisine by local notable, Cru Catering who will be showcasing custom menus and station builds.”

Destination DC Hosts Sustainability Summit

Mar. 13, 2024—Destination DC (DDC) is hosting their inaugural Sustainability Summit that highlights the importance of federal and local partnerships. In partnership with the US. Environmental Protection Agency, the DC Department of Energy and Environment as well as local hospitality community the DDC is looking to make the tourism and events industry more sustainable.

“We recognize our need to do more when it comes to sustainability, so the summit is a step in the right direction as we focus on what we can do collectively as destination stewards,” says Elliott L. Ferguson, II president and CEO. “Destination DC’s Sustainability District is an opportunity for collaborative learning, fostering economic and social opportunities for small businesses and the local community, reinforcing our collective responsibility to build a sustainable and vibrant future for our nation’s capital.”

ASM Global Enters Partnership with Playeasy

March 13, 2024—ASM Global has announced its partnership with Playeasy, a digital network focused on sporting events and sports tourism. The partnership with allow ASM access to more than 600 sports event operators in 100+ sports and activities.

“We’re thrilled to join forces with Playeasy as its leading sports events and sports tourism platform complements ASM Global’s expertise in producing live event experiences,” says Anna Nash, vice president, market development, ASM Global, “This collaboration enhances our ability to drive content to our extensive portfolio of venues, facilitating easier access for sports-event organizers to our convention centers. By leveraging our network, we aim to empower organizers to expand their events across our diverse venues, boosting economic impact from out-of-state visitors.”

The partnership will allow for elevated awareness for the ASM Global convention centers as well as convention specific products and comprehensive real-time analytics for marketing strategies.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Raises Awareness for Colon Cancer with Bum Run

March 11, 2024—The seventh annual Bum Run sponsored by Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in partnership with American Cancer Society (ACS) and their program Relay for Life Kauai is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) effort to bring awareness and raise funds for colon cancer. Created in 2015, the Bum Run has personally impacted several members of the Grand Hyatt Kauai team and is an important event to highlight during the month of March, Colon Cancer Awareness Month.

“As a colon cancer survivor nearing my 10-year anniversary of diagnosis, the Bum Run holds a special significance for me,” says Diann Hartman, director of marketing communications with Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. “I am honored to welcome our guests and community for such a meaningful event.” The Bum Run will take place on March 16th, with online registration on active.com.

Corinthian Events Announces Succession Plan

March  7, 2024—Boston-based event company Corinthian Events announces a succession plan for three longtime employees to assume control of the company by 2027. Co-CEOs Courtney Church and Jill Tate will sell the 24-year-old company to Jennifer Logan, Tamara O’Malley and Jamie Hellesen, the three of whom possess over 35 years of combined experience.

“Jamie, Tamara and I have been working together for more than 10 years and have built a strong relationship grounded in hard work, mutual respect, and trust,” said Jennifer Logan, Managing Partner at Corinthian Events. “We’re so lucky and honored to be able to shepherd Corinthian Events into the future. I speak for us all when I say that with Jill and Courtney’s guidance over the next few years, we’re fully confident that our company will continue to grow and thrive.”  

Freeman Launches Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative Roadmap

March 7, 2024—Trade show, exhibit and event company Freeman today shared its Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative (NZCE) roadmap, providing a clear action plan to reduce its environmental impact while upholding and amplifying the event industry’s strength of building communities around a common purpose.

The roadmap, based on the company’s existing initiatives and investments, focuses on three key areas where it can accelerate progress and innovation. These areas are reduction/replacement, expansion of rental and reuse programs, and expansion of end-of-event options in donation and recycling programs.

Freeman is a founding signatory of the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge as of 2021, which now sees over 600 supporting organizations across 60 countries wThe orking towards a net zero goal in events.

Freeman CEO Bob Priest-Heck says, “We know how to take on big challenges. It requires a clear strategy and a detailed tactical plan to solve a lot of smaller challenges over time, with each one taking us closer to the goal of Net Zero. We won’t get there overnight. But we’ll get there.”

Destination Arabia Joins Hosts Global Alliance

March 6, 2024—Hosts Global has announced that Destination Arabia has joined the DMC.

“We are thrilled to welcome Destination Arabia to our Alliance. With their deep-rooted knowledge and expertise in the UAE market, they enhance our ability to deliver exceptional experiences to our clients. This addition to our exclusive Alliance increases our global reach and solidifies our position as the industry leader as a one stop solution for best-in-class DMCs worldwide,” says Robert Lee, VP of Global Sales & Alliance Engagement at Hosts Global.

The range of offerings of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah, Destination Al Khaimah, Destination Arbia offer access to many vibrant destinations within the United Arab Emirates.

Egypt is Emerging as a Top Tourism Destination with Cairo City Break

March 6, 2024—Last year showed a groundbreaking 14,906 million number of visitors to Egypt and Egypt is eager to continue that momentum. The Cairo City Break program, presented by Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Ahmed Issa, is promising potential visitors and tourists an amalgam of luxury, history, ancient heritage and vibrant modernity.

Egypt is increasing the ease of travel to tourist destinations to improve traveler experience, such as building an environmentally friendly and high-speed train connecting Hurghada and Luxor, projected to be completed by 2026.

“There is no other city that offers visitors a journey through the epochs of every great civilization, starting from 3500 B.C. Our commitment is to make Cairo a destination that invites exploration over multiple visits or an extended weekend,” says Issa.

MGM and Marriott Launch MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy

March 6, 2024—MGM Resorts International and Marriott International have officially launched their new MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy. Now, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points and make reservations at 16 MGM Collection resorts comprising MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy via Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy app. Members of MGM Resort’s loyalty program can link accounts with Marriott Bonvoy to directly tier match and receive member benefits.

In addition, Marriott Bonvoy Moments inspired by MGM Collection launch today, where Marriott Bonvoy members can win an opportunity to choreograph the world-famous Bellagio Fountain Show along with the existing creative team, to enjoy a golf weekend at Shadow Creek or to venture behind the scenes at four Cirque du Soleil shows: KÀ, Michael Jackson ONE, Mad Apple and “O.”

Holiday Inn El Paso West Completes $3.5 Million Renovation

March 6, 2024—Holiday Inn El Paso West-Sunland Park announced today the $3.5 million renovation of the property has been completed. The renovation included upgrades to meeting spaces, the restaurant and bar areas, the lobby and guest bathrooms.

The press release states that the “meeting spaces have been redesigned to offer versatility and functionality, catering to a variety of events and gatherings. Whether for business meetings or social occasions, guests will find the updated facilities conducive to productivity and enjoyment.”

Get Ready for CMP Advance!

March 5, 2024—CMP Advance 2024 will take place Mar. 11-13 at Fairmont Royal York in Toronto, Canada. This year, the event will open with a Mentor & Me breakfast, where new CMPs and CMP Fellows can engage face to face, making powerful professional connections right from the start.

Participants will then gather for the opening keynote from Shawn Kanungo, author and innovation strategist, who will discuss the enormous impact of AI and its relation to infinite leverage. Following two days of networking and learning, the event will close out with a keynote from Dr. Lisa Bélanger, CEO of ConsciousWorks and author. She will explore the influence of community and connection both within a person’s professional life as well as outside it.

All participants at CMP Advance will receive a $75 USD discount to put towards their Sustainable Event Professional Certification, in addition to the 10 CEs they earn by attending CMP Advance. The event will follow the EIC Sustainable Event Standards and hopes to achieve certification; attendees will walk away with a refreshed understanding of what goes in to working towards these standards. In addition, designated quiet rooms will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day for attendees to use in need of a break, anytime.

Scottsdale Resort Partners with Chef Richard Blais

March 5, 2024—Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa is elevating its culinary scene with six new restaurant concepts and a partnership with Celebrity Chef Richard Blaise. The culinary makeover is another addition to the resort’s $110 million renovation and branding to a Grand Hyatt property.

The James Beard-nominated cookbook author and first ever winner of the hit show Top Chef continues to be a member of the Food Network’s galaxy of superstar chefs, currently co-starring on the popular program Next Level Chef alongside Gordon Ramsay.

“We are thrilled to announce a partnership with Celebrity Chef Richard Blais to debut elevated dining and bar experiences at our beautiful Sonoran Desert resort,” said Lance Marrin, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa. “The new and exciting concepts will provide a wide variety of global and local flavors that our guests and local residents will love. All of our restaurant and bar venues are expected to debut this fall as we finalize our extensive renovation project.”

Noble House Hotels & Resorts Returns to Northeast

March 4, 2024—Noble House Hotels & Resorts announced in a press release today that Chatham Inn Relais & Chateaux will be added to its portfolio of properties, a return to the Northeast for the brand in the seaside town of Chatham, Massachusetts. As the oldest inn on Cape Cod, Chatham Inn Relais & Chateaux is a luxury boutique built in 1830 with 18 guest rooms that have been renovated with high-end furnishings and textiles.

“The addition of the Chatham Inn Relais & Châteaux to the Noble House Hotels & Resorts portfolio reinforces our commitment to grow with on-brand, award-winning, luxury boutique properties. We are also excited to welcome the team members of the Chatham Inn Relais & Châteaux to the Noble House family,” said James Colee, CEO for Noble House Hotels & Resorts.

Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau Launch New Branding

March 1, 2024—Bloomington Minnesota Convention Center and Visitors Bureau have announced a new brand for the city’s destination marketing organization — Bloomington, Minnesota Travel & Tourism.

“With our revamped look and feel, we now feel more empowered than ever to pursue our mission of inspiring travelers to visit Bloomington so that they may experience our world-class experiences and trademark Minnesota hospitality first-hand,” says Bonnie Carlson, President & CEO of Bloomington, Minnesota Travel and Tourism.

The new visual identity, created in partnership with Minneapolis based firm Duffy, encompasses the city’s energy as well as their grounded approach to customer service.

Hosts Global Announces REALM to Join Global Alliance

Feb. 29, 2024—Hosts Global has announced the addition of REALM, an Asian Pacific event destination management expert, to Global Alliance.

“We are delighted to welcome REALM to Hosts Global. This partnership aligns seamlessly with our commitment to offering unparalleled access to extraordinary destinations. REALM’s expertise in the Asia Pacific region adds a new layer of possibilities for our clients, and we’re eager to embark on this exciting journey together,” says Tina Gaccetta, SVP of Global Sales & Marketing for Hosts Global.

The collaboration will expand Hosts Global’s reach around the world, allowing them to offer clients continued extraordinary event experiences across nine destinations.

IAEE Gains EIC Sustainability Certification for Second Year

Feb. 28, 2024—The Events Industry Council announced IAEE‘s Annual Meeting & Exhibition has gained the EIC Silver Level Certification in its Sustainable Event Standards.

The certification was performed by a non-for-profit auditing organization, The Alliance for Audited Media.

“The independent certification process is a rigorous review of the company’s compliance to the EIC standards. We applaud IAEE on this achievement because it demonstrates their commitment to sustainable business practices and optimizing their performance year after year,” says Alliance for Audited Media President Richard Murphy.

IAEE previously received a Bronze Level Certification in 2022.

Four Seasons Taking Reservations for New Destination in Mexico

Feb. 28, 2024—Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol is now taking reservations in its preparation to open on May 1st, 2024. Inspired by the “pueblos mágicos”—”magic towns”—the resort is an amalgam of Mexican culture, music, art and lifestyle in one of the most luxurious destinations for incentives and executive retreats.

“As we expand our portfolio in the most sought-after vacation destinations around the world, Cabo San Lucas has long been on our list, and we are thrilled to be opening a brand new Four Seasons experience that beautifully complements our existing resort on the more remote East Cape of Los Cabos,”— Antoine Chahwan, President, Four Seasons Hotel Operations Americas

Palm Springs Convention Center Designated as Certified Autism Center, First in California

Feb. 27, 2024—The Palm Springs Convention Center, managed by ASM Global, announced it is the first convention center in California to be designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) by the Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

Convention staff attended autistic and sensory-sensitive training aimed to better support the experience of attendees on the spectrum.

“We are honored and proud to become a Certified Autism Center™, reflecting our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and our dedication to providing a welcoming environment for autistic individuals. By completing this training, we aim to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the experiences and events at our convention center,” says Rob Hampton, General Manager of the Palm Springs Convention Center.

AHLA and Procure Impact Launch Program to Create 100,000 Hours for Overlooked Populations

Feb. 27, 2024—The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Procure Impact has launched Dignity of Work Pledge, an initiative focused to create 100,000 hours of paid employment for overlooked populations. Results of the imitative will be shared on the AHLA Responsible Stay website.

“We believe the hospitality sector is uniquely positioned to harness its purchasing power to create unique and meaningful guest experiences and change millions of lives in the process. We are excited to partner with so many pioneers in hospitality who are building spaces and places grounded in belonging and purpose through the products that they feature and purchase,” says Procure Impact Founder & CEO Lauren McCann.

Partners who have also agreed to sign the Dignity of Work pledge also include Davidson Hospitality Group, Pyramid Global Hospitality, Sage Hospitality Group, CoralTree Hospitality, Atrium Hospitality, Pacific Hospitality Group, Modus Hotels and 21c Museum Hotels.

Events Industry Council Announces Keynote Speakers for CMP Advance

Feb. 23, 2024—Events Industry Council recently announced their keynote speakers for the CMP Advance taking place on March 11th- 13th in Toronto, Canada.

The opening keynote speaker, Shawn Kanungo, globally recognized innovation strategist and bestselling author will speak on how AI will impact society, business and culture. The closing keynote speaker, Dr. Lisa Bélanger will speak on the importance of community and connection. 

CMP Advance will also be featuring a mentor breakfast for new CMPs and CMP Fellows.

Frenchman’s Reef Celebrates Grand Opening With Charitable Work

Feb. 22, 2024—Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas recently hosted a grand opening, commemorating the opening of The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman’s Reef and Morningstar Buoy Haus Beach Resort at Frenchman’s Reef, Autograph Collection, which followed a $425 million rebuild.

U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Commissioner of Tourism Hon. Joseph Boschulte were in attendance, along with the owners of Fortress Investment Group, who acquired the properties in 2021.

“We are bringing Frenchman’s Reef into a new era, with a renewed focus on an immersive guest experience,” said Joe Gould, managing director of Fortress Investment Group. “With these two world-class resorts officially open to guests, we are ready to welcome the world to Frenchman’s Reef. This is a destination unlike any other, and we are committed to creating memorable moments for our guests to explore and unwind through outstanding service, exceptional amenities, and new restaurant and bar concepts that offer a true taste of the destination.”

The evening featured live music and entertainment, culinary activations at the property’s on-site restaurants and a “Taste of Frenchman’s Reef” experience at the outdoor spa pool. Beyond that, Frenchman’s Reef donated $20,000 to the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education, in support of the island’s youth.

Senate Commerce Committee Passes FAA Reauthorization Bill

Feb. 22, 2024—The Senate Commerce Committee has passed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill.

The bill will help with long-term safety and the modernization of the U.S. air travel system. The bill must pass both chambers of Congress before heading to President Biden’s desk for a final approval.

Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants Strike

Feb. 20, 2024 —Alaska Airlines flight attendants are authorized by three different union organizations to potentially pose a strike for the first time in 30 years. Employees in the cabin crew are threatening to picket outside airports in the U.S., the United Kingdom and Guam for higher pay.

“We agree with our flight attendants that we need a new contract, which is why we’ve been working hard to get an agreement,” Alaska Airlines said in a statement to FOX Business. ” We’ve been offering industry leading top-of-scale pay for months with an immediate 15% raise to the entire pay scale and additional raises every year. we’ve closed more than 50 tentative agreements—representing dozens of topics where we’ve found common ground.

SEARCH Foundation Raises Record Contributions

Feb. 16, 2024—The Search Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that focuses on helping out meeting and catering professionals in crisis, raised $104,000 during their Annual Signature Event.

“The support our foundation provides to individuals in crisis is only possible with the generosity of the industry members that give so selflessly. I’m pleased to report that at the Annual Signature Event at Skybox on 6th, followed by an after party hosted by Wilkinson-Rhodes, we surpassed our goal for this event ,” says board chairperson, Kate Patay of Terramar, a DMC Network Company. “I am so proud of the event team and the sponsors for helping us to achieve this and welcome you to join us at all of our upcoming events in 2024 to keep the momentum going and assist more industry professionals when they need it most.”

Shortly after SEARCH was honored with the Steve Kemble Leadership Award, dedicated to the person or group who and shown an excellence in leadership through skills through service to the event and meeting industry.

WTTC Issues Call to Action to EU to Support Hospitality Industry

Feb. 14, 2024—Today, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) issued a Call to Action, urging European Union (EU) stakeholders to support the hospitality industry. The industry employs over 22 million people and contributes €1.4 trillion ($1.5 trillion) to the EU economy.

The global tourism body places emphasis on three key areas, which it explains modernize and enhance the sector, and expects would support the sector to reach a €1.9 trillion ($2 trillion) contribution to the EU economy by 2033.

“The Travel & Tourism sector is a key driver of economic growth in the EU and the measures within our Call to Action will ensure the sector continues to grow sustainably, attract new talent and prosper,” says WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson. “We urge the EU to adopt these recommendations for the benefit of business and travelers globally. As the sector modernizes and unlocks the digital transformation of travel, together with the European Union we can achieve unprecedented growth.”

These areas are as follows:

1. A more sustainable future

As the EU carries out policy impact assessments on legislation implementation within hospitality, EU leaders have an opportunity to encourage more sustainable practices and help the sector to achieve net zero emission targets. In addition, the Call to Action urges EU leaders to be methodical and ensure future environmental legislation does not hinder, but rather complements, existing commitments and work already undertaken by the travel and tourism sector.

2. Supporting ease of travel across borders

When policies facilitate hassle-free travel, the hospitality industry sees growth and expanded job opportunities. Most critically, WTTC calls for simplified visa processes, and urges the EU to continue its work towards visa-free travel and removal of existing barriers, such as the already delayed Entry-Exist System.

3. Boosting the digitalization of the sector

WTTC sees the digitalization of hospitality as vital to its growth, efficiency, cost-reduction and economic growth, and calls on the EU to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge technologies by pursing policies that allow for contactless travel and implement AI across the sector. WTTC expresses it will support the EU in efforts to enable the digitalization of passports, streamlining of visa applications and digitalization across the entire traveler experience.

Walt Disney World to Open ‘Tiana’s Bayou Adventure’ This Summer

Feb. 13, 2024—This summer, Florida’s Walt Disney World Resort will debut Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park. The attraction “digs a little deeper” into Princess Tiana’s story following the events of the Walt Disney Animation Studios’ film, “The Princess and the Frog.”

Once guests enter the bayou, they will float through cypress trees and Spanish moss within a Louisiana bayou, where they will be greeted by the first-ever Tiana Audio-Animatronics figure along with numerous other characters and musical critters, including an otter, a rabbit and a turtle among many others. Along the way, music celebrates the heart of New Orleans sound, with a zydeco and other types of authentic music, alongside favorite songs from the film. Voice actors from the film reprise their roles, including Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen and Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana.

Throughout the attraction, guests can see authentic NOLA artistry created by Louisiana artists, such as an original metalwork weathervane. To round out the immersive experience, guests will catch whiffs of the scent of frying beignets. Following its summer 2024 opening at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open later in 2024 at Disneyland Park in California.

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia Invite Media

Feb. 12, 2024—The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia (BHMVA) is celebrating Black History Month with new exhibitions including Holsinger Studio portraits, figurative sculptures and others to honor black history and culture. The exhibits are open for a press-only meet and greet to present sponsors and offer members of the media the opportunity to photograph the pop-up exhibitions on Wednesday, February 14th from 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. EST. The new exhibitions will be open to the public through Black History Month, ending Thursday, February 29th.

The exhibition is presented by Tourism Cares with support from C&F Bank.

Visit Austin SVP and CMO Julie Chase Passes Away

It is with a heavy heart we share that Visit Austin Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Julie Chase passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 4^th surrounded by her family.

Julie was a proud 4^th generation Texan and has called Austin “home” for more than 25 years. As Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Austin, Julie led the marketing, tourism, film and music departments. Among marketing campaigns, event activations, and various other projects, Julie was also instrumental in working closely with Austin Bergstrom International Airport and helping to secure new flight service for Austin. Previously, she served as Director of Texas Tourism from 2003-2012. 

Julie loved spending time with her family and traveling the world. She was passionate about tourism marketing and much of Visit Austin and the Austin and Texas tourism community’s success can be attributed to her efforts and dedication.

Julie will be greatly, greatly missed.

More information regarding a Celebration of Life will be provided at a later time. 

Maritz Hosts Event for Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Feb. 7, 2024—January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. As part of its efforts in the fight against human trafficking, Maritz hosted an event on its St. Louis campus on Jan. 30 in partnership with The Covering House, a St. Louis-based organization dedicated to fighting human trafficking. The event, “The Role of the Internet in Trafficking & Tips to Keeping Kids Safe Online” saw attendance from 170 people both in-person and virtually.

Maritz CEO David Peckinpaugh welcomed Givonni Orr, training manager at The Covering House; Keaton Strong, retired police caption, human trafficking specialist and crisis intervention specialist for Ritenour School district; Sarah Sharpe, cyber-security at Maritz; and Laura Baker, administrator of community engagement at The Covering House for a panel, moderated by Mary Clare Darland, director of sourcing at Martiz.

The panel discussed how parents can monitor their childrens’ safety on social media and signs of human trafficking to look for when traveling, as well as how everyone can be proactive to fight human trafficking. Maritz team members collected donations for the covering house.

Those who are interested can view the event here.

Visit Anaheim Announces Local Workforce Development Initiative

Feb. 6, 2024—Visit Anaheim has announced the new workforce initiative aimed at inspiring high school students to look at careers in tourism and hospitality. Careers will range from hotel management to transportation, maintenance, and event planning.

“By fostering connections and providing guidance, Workforce Development is bridging the gap between our industry and our community,” said Christina Dawson, Senior Vice President, Operations, Visit Anaheim. “This program will inspire students to pursue careers within the tourism and hospitality field while cultivating a skilled and diverse future workforce.”

High schoolers will be able to participate in career fairs, access educational resources, internships and job opportunities.

Visit Newport Beach Will Hold a Drone Show at Allegiant Stadium Following Super Bowl

Feb. 5, 2024—Visit Newport Beach announces that it will hold the first ever 1,000-drone show at Allegiant Stadium, in Las Vegas, on February 11, following the Super Bowl. The show, titled, “Touch Down in Newport Beach,” will take place one hour after the conclusion of the major football event. Those who can’t make it in person can view a live-stream of the show thanks to a partnership with COX, the official telecommunications provider of Allegiant Stadium.

It will be powered by SkyWorx, a team of world-class engineers, pilots and artists, that operates drone light shows. A partner of Smart Meetings since 2022, SkyWorx just recently put on the first drone show in downtown Monterey during the Smart Meetings Extraordinary Experience at Portola Hotel and Spa in November 2023.

Not only will Newport Beach’s drone show wow audiences with its scale and artistry; when the drones form a QR code in the sky, viewers will be able to scan it for the chance to win a Newport Beach vacation package. Additionally, throughout game week and beyond, geo-fencing technology will allow Visit Newport Beach to air a new football-themed commercial in 60,000 Las Vegas Strip hotel rooms.

127 Professionals Have Earned CAE Credential, ASAE Announces

Feb. 2, 2024—ASAE, the membership organization of over 48,000 association executives and industry partners representing over 7,400 organizations, has announced that 127 association executives have successfully completed its Certified Association Executive (CAE) program and earned the credential.

They join over 4,500 credentialed industry leaders around the world. The CAE Program, accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCAA), elevates professional standards, enhances individual performance and designates the professionals who have acquired and demonstrated the knowledge essential to be a leading player in association management.

These newly credentialed professionals will be honored during the 2024 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition in Cleveland Aug. 10-12, along with the upcoming May 2024 class.

ESPA Announces 2024 Award Winners

Jan. 30, 2024—The Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA) today honored the recipients of a number of prestigious awards, which spotlight outstanding leaders in the event services sector, association leadership and engagement, at its 2024 Annual Conference at the Hyatt Regency in Indianapolis.

See the awardees listed below:

Executive Excellence Award

Diane DiAntonio, CMP, CEM, general manager at Massachusetts Convention Center Authority

Event Service Professional of the Year Award

DeShawn Fitzpatrick, CMP, senior client services manager at Visit Houston

Leadership in Event Service Award

Jarrica Guzman, event services manager at Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB

2024 Meeting Professional of the Year

Bridget Robinson, CMP, CMM, director of national conventions & meetings at American Legion

ESPA Member Awards

William H. Just Memorial Award

Patrick Coit, CMP, destination services manager at Meet Boston

ESPA Members of the Year

DeShawn Fitzpatrick, CMP, senior client services manager at Visit Houston and Amber Brewer, Event Service Specialist at Visit Rochester

ESPA President’s Award

Esther Walker-Young, senior services manager at Visit KC

In addition, ESPA presented the first-ever 2024 Appreciation Award to its longtime executive director, Lynn McCullough.

UK-Based Company DRPG Acquires American-Based TSEC

Jan. 24, 2024—The global creative communications agency DRPG has announced its newest expansion with its acquisition of The Special Event Company (TSEC) in its latest press release. TSEC has been a leading force in the industry for over 35 years and the acquisition will help both DRPG and TSEC expand their global reach and boost the events industry. Matt Franks, group director of events for DRPG, explains how the acquisition is mutually beneficial to both companies.

“We recognized there are great synergies between the two companies and culturally the teams are very similar,” says Franks. “These mirrored attributes and core values gave us the confidence this partnership and fit would succeed in delivering the very best experiences for our clients.”

Conference Pro Aims to Revolutionize Conference Experience

Jan. 23, 2024—Conference Pro is looking to shake up the conference and trade show landscape. The groundbreaking company is looking to offer comprehensive reviews of conferences and trade shows done by event marketers and expert conference planning services.

The ability to glimpse reviews of conferences will allow meeting professionals to under the dynamics of a successful conference.

“We were having all these behind-the-scenes conversations with each other and recognized a gap in the market. Why is there Yelp for everything else, but not Trade Shows!? So, we created a platform that combines firsthand experience at conferences and Trade Shows with strategic planning. Conference Pro is the result of our collective expertise, aiming to elevate the conference and trade show experience for both organizers and participants,” said David T Stevens, Co-Founder.

InteleTravel Acquires MGME

Jan. 23, 2024—Less than a year after aligning with Hickory Global Partners, InteleTravel has announced its acquisition of global events agency McVeigh Global Meetings and Events (MGME.) The three companies are planning to work together to provide high-end leisure and business travel. According to the press release from MGME, the brand will continue to operate on its own but will be owned by InteleTravel and, working with Hickory Global Partners, “clients will benefit from InteleTravel’s resources and scale, as the three companies join in business development, purchasing power, cross-utilizing capabilities, and finding economies and efficiencies.

“I am incredibly excited to ally MGME’s professional storytellers and experienced designers with InteleTravel and Hickory’s travel professionals and clients,” says MGME COE Carvie Gillikin. “I know how much MGME can offer their agencies, and we are creating the next 30 years of leadership for MGME by being able to expand our travel and accommodations offerings for our global programs, and having access to all the other InteleTravel assets, technology and management.”

Visit Anaheim Hosting Nearly 150 Meetings and Conventions in 2024

Jan. 22, 2024—Visit Anaheim has announced 142 conventions, meetings events scheduled to happen in 2024. The plan is projected to bring in more than $1.5 billion in economic impact to the Anaheim community and will generate $15 million in tourism occupancy tax (TOT).

National Assocation of Music Merchants (NAMM) will be kicking off their event with nearly 75,000 attendees and nearly 25,000 room nights.

“We are thrilled that NAMM has called Anaheim home for nearly 50 years,” said Ronnie Collins, Senior Vice President, Sales & Services, Visit Anaheim, “Now that they’re back to their regular programming in January for the first time since 202, we anticipate a high impact event, building on the rich history and vibrant musical community that they’ve nurtured here in Anaheim.”

AHLA Foundation Hosts 6th-Annual Hotel Workforce Celebration

Jan. 22, 2024—On Jan. 21, AHLA Foundation hosted its 6th-annual Night of a Thousand Stars gala that honors leaders in the hotel industry. The event raised nearly $1 million to support AHLA Foundation initiatives designed to strengthen the hotel industry’s workforce. The event also held the Stars of the Industry Awards, which celebrates winners for their industry service.

AHLA Foundation also introduced the Scholar of the Year Award, recognizing the achievements to a select hospitality student and demonstrating its commitment to the next generation of hospitality professionals. The third-annual Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award was granted to Hyatt Hotels President and CEO Mark Hoplamazian.

“The Night of a Thousand Stars Gala brings our entire industry together to celebrate the work and dedication of the unsung heroes of hospitality – the ones at the heart of our industry,” said Anna Blue, president of the AHLA Foundation.

AHLA’s 2024 Stars of the Industry winners:

North Star Award Winner

• Colby Bracy, Director of Human Resources, The Nonantum Resort

North Star Award Finalists

• Alfonso Rauda-Serrano, Chief Engineer, Valley River Inn Eugene
• Bonnie Sager, General Manager, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hazelton

AHLA Foundation ForWard: Paving the Way Award

• Lina Patel, Director, Strategic Franchise Initiative, Red Roof Franchising

Stevan Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year

• Adrian Adriano III, Director, Premium Brands, Marriott International

Foundation Scholar of the Year

• Olivia Cannella, Hospitality Senior, Michigan State University

CEMA Advisory Board Announced

Jan. 22, 2024—PCMA and Corporate Event Marketing Association (CEMA) announced the 2024 CEMA Advisory Board consisted of senior event marketing executives. The CEMA Advisory Board is partnered with PCMA to strengthen their goals of education and networking opportunities in the industry. Learn more about the 2024 CEMA Advisory Board members in the press release from PCMA announced by CEMA president and CEO Sherrif Karamat, CAE here.

Visit Anaheim Partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters

Jan. 17, 2024—Visit Anaheim has announced it will be partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire Workplace Mentoring Program. Focusing on encouraging and preparing the youth in Anaheim for college and/or the professional world, Christina Dawson, senior vice president of operations, Visit Anaheim, comments on the exciting new partnership.

“With over 63,000 tourism jobs in Anaheim across the convention center, theme parks, restaurants, shops and hotels, Visit Anaheim is enthusiastic about getting young professionals interested in career opportunities within our industry.”

Cvent Acquires Jifflenow and iCapture

Jan. 16, 2024—Hospitality technology provider Cvent announced that it has acquired Jifflenow, a B2B meeting scheduling platform and iCapture, a lead capture solution, to expand its trade show and conference offerings. Enhanced capabilities will enable sales and marketing teams to improve trade show performance and ROI through utomated appointment scheduling and universal lead capture, according to Reggie Aggarwal, CEO and founder of Cvent.

Benefits to meeting professionals include:

• Maximize trade show impact by facilitating meetings with the highest-value customers and prospects

• Increase the number of event leads

• Better qualify and convert trade show leads

Destination DC Celebrates Sustainable Credentials

Jan. 13, 2024—As the first city in the world to achieve the Platinum level LEED for Cities certification, Destination DC announced Carbon Free DC, a plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. Major city upgrades include modernized LED streetlights as part of DC’s Smart Cities initiative. The city’s first electric buses have been activated and Metrorail Silver Line connects Washington Dulles International Airport to downtown DC. 

DDC launched the Sustainability District so meeting and event planners and attendees can easily find sustainability initiatives at local hotels, restaurants and convention services.  

Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center Pilots Shift Robotics’ Moonwalkers

Jan. 11, 2024—Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Florida is the first public entity to recognize Shift Robotics‘ AI-informed Moonwalkers as OPDMDs (Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices) as it pilots the robotic shoes for use in all its facilities and becomes a customer. Shift Robotics’ product, Moonwalkers, are nano-empowered mobility devices that allow users to walk up to three times faster, with a top speed of seven miles per hour. They use AI software to measure a user’s stride, then enable each shoe to adjust to that user’s Gait Cycle. Last year, they were named by TIME as one of the Best Inventions of 2023.

OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester says, “We are eager to be the first convention center to pilot this impressive technology and see how its numerous uses can benefit our event staff and the efficiency of our shows…Through the pilot testing of the Moonwalkers, we can create a more efficient and less taxing method of travel for our team members who often walk miles around our large campus.”

Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming Promote New Strategies to Fight Human Trafficking

Jan. 10th, 2024—The commitment towards fighting human trafficking has been important to Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming for years. They are announcing their “new support tools for victims and those at risk, a youth education program, new trainings to help Team Members combat and prevent human trafficking, and work with new community partners to create a greater impact.” Through organizations and innovations like Twentyfour-Seven Inc, Hard Rock Social Identity Quest and other programs launching in 2024, Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are demonstrating corporate social responsibility (CSR). Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole gaining, expresses how important it is to commit to CSR.

“We are deeply committed to the work our community partners provide for those at risk, victims and survivors of human trafficking in the United Stats and around the world as we work together to combat human trafficking,” says Allen.

Pechanga Partners with the LA Rams for Those in Need

Jan. 9th, 2024—Pechanga Resort and Casino partnered with the LA Rams and the LA Regional Food Bank in December, 2023, to launch the 4th annual Drive Thru Food Distribution at SoFi Stadium, resulting in an estimated 60,000 meals distributed to families in need. These acts of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are inspirational as we enter into a new year.

“We are thankful for the opportunity to help our neighbors in need in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California,” said Ken Perez, president of the Pechanga Development Corporation. “We appreciate our partners and their generosity in supporting our community.”

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas launches Venetian Rewards

Jan. 9th, 2024—The new Venetian Rewards is launching in March from The Venetian Resort Las Vegas to promote their loyalty program for both gaming and non-gaming visitors. This means even if visitors aren’t gamers, there are other ways to earn Rewards Points.

“Venetian Rewards marks yet another milestone in the ongoing evolution of The Venetian Resort,” says Patrick Nichols, president and chief executive officer of The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. “This all-new program continues to provide the best access for our gaming customers and enhances earnings on experiences including gaming, dining, entertainment, our world-class spa and more, for all of our guests.”

ConferenceDirect Partners with Reposite

Jan. 9, 2024− ConferenceDirect has announced its partnership with Reposite, which functions as a tool for Travel and Event planners, allowing for a streamline of communication, supplier discovery, creating RFPs, and building proposals.

“We’re thrilled to welcome ConferenceDirect into the Reposite community!” says Alexa Berube, Co-Founder of Reposite, “By integrating our robust platform and planning tools with ConferenceDirect’s extensive service offerings, we are setting a new standard for excellence and efficiency. We look forward to seeing how this collaboration elevates the meetings & events industry as a whole.”

ConferenceDirect is based out of Folsom, California and is a full-service meetings solution company.

Mexico Cuts the Ribbon on El Tren Maya

Jan. 8, 2024−Mexico has unveiled El Tren Maya (The Maya Train) which will run on a 290-mile track across the Yucatán peninsula. This will be the first installation of the project with future plans of adding 600 miles to the track.

El Tren Maya will serve as a literal vehicle to increase tourism as it connects some of the most scenic and visited attractions in Mexico, yet the possibilities of the 600-mile track expansion can have a much larger impact. Transportation to less accessible regions can broaden the opportunities for less visible communities on the Yucatán peninsula to boost their economy with tourism and hospitality and provide resources for the region’s expansion and growth.

“There is a large section of the interior of the peninsula that doesn’t have highways or roads,” says Marilyn Masson, professor of anthropology at the University at Albany SUNY. “In the more remote sections, the train could potentially help these communities be better connected to the outside world.”

AHLA Foundation Launches New Scholarship Application Portal for Hospitality Students

Jan. 8, 2024—American Hotel and Lodging Association’s charitable partner AHLA Foundation recently launched a new platform to ease its scholarship application process. In addition to improving the user experience, the new portal features a built-in eligibility assessment that lets students access every Foundation-hosted opportunity for which they’ve met the qualifications.

The Foundation’s new system also lets students apply for multiple scholarship opportunities in one application. In addition to the management of the Incoming Freshman Scholarship and the Opening Doors to Opportunity Scholarship, eight other scholarships have been added to the new portal as well:

• Hyatt Hotels Fund for Minority Lodging Management Students
• Rama Scholarship for the American Dream Program
• American Express Scholarship Program
• Ecolab Scholarship Program
• Karl Mehlmann Scholarship
• Banks Brown Graduate Scholarship Program
• Arthur J. Packard Memorial Scholarship Program
• Stephen P. Holmes Scholarship

You can learn more here: ahlafoundation.org/scholarships

Rogers Centre Ottawa Partners with LouLou Lounge

Dec. 27, 2024—Rogers Centre Ottawa announced a three-year partnership with LouLou Lounge Furniture Rentals as a preferred supplier for special event decor, furnishings and room design. As part of the agreement LouLou Lounge will collaborate with the Rogers Centre Ottawa team to provide furniture for the Colonel By North Foyer, located next to the main entrance. This inviting space, visible from the street view, serves as a prime location for delegates to relax between sessions or catch up on emails.

Regenerative Travel Announces Winners of 2024 Travel Impact Awards

Dec. 26, 2024—Regenerative Travel named the winners of the 2024 Regenerative Travel Impact Awards, celebrating exceptional individuals, organizations and initiatives driving transformative change in the travel industry. These awards honor those who exemplify the principles of regeneration by fostering environmental conservation, community empowerment and meaningful experiences. The 2024 winners, selected by a panel of experts, and the People's Choice Award voted on by the public, represent the pinnacle of innovation and dedication in the field. Regenerative Hotel of the Year: El Albergue Ollantaytambo, recognized for pioneering regeneration in the Sacred Valley, Peru. Regenerative Changemaker of the Year: Sarah Dusek, celebrated for her visionary leadership in advancing sustainable hospitality. Regenerative Agency of the Year: Himalayan Ecotourism, honored for sustainable adventures that empower women and conserve ecosystems. Regenerative Storyteller of the Year: Pier Nirandara, celebrated for amplifying awe for conservation through underwater storytelling. Regenerative Experience of the Year: Kumano Adventures, Japan, acknowledged for curating deeply immersive journeys that celebrate Japan’s sacred landscapes while preserving its cultural heritage. Impact Award for Conservation: Love the Oceans, commended for pioneering marine conservation efforts and empowering local communities in Mozambique. Impact Award for Food and Agriculture: Ngalung Kalla, celebrated for its innovative approach to sustainable farming and food security in Indonesia. Community Project of the Year: I am Water, recognized for connecting underserved communities with ocean conservation through education and transformative experiences. Impact Award for Health and Wellness: Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, honored for integrating regenerative wellness practices into transformative travel experiences in New Zealand. Regenerative Design of the Year: Few and Far Luvhondo, praised for its groundbreaking architecture that harmonizes luxury with ecological restoration in South Africa. Impact Award for Climate Innovation: Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda, highlighted for its pioneering grassroots solution for carbon offsetting in Mexico. Impact Award for Education: Time + Tide - The Girls Club, recognized for empowering young women in Zambia through education and tourism-based skills development. Regenerative Travel Initiative of the Year: Tourism Cares Meaningful Travel Map, celebrated for its innovative platform connecting travelers with impactful experiences worldwide. The People’s Choice Award: Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba, voted by the public for its inspiring commitment to sustainability and regenerative hospitality in the Caribbean.

New York City Tourism Finishes 2024 with $79 Billion in Economic Impact

Dec. 20, 2024—New York City Tourism + Convention announced its final forecast for the year. The report shows an established total economic pact of $76 billion across the city and state economies, which also includes $51 billion in spending by travelers. “With nearly 65 million visitors this year—the second highest figure in our city’s history—New York City has once again solidified its position as the premier destination in the nation and one of the top travel spots in the world,” says New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “New York City remains a dynamic hub for tourism, drawing tens of millions of visitors from around the globe and bringing in $79 billion in economic impact. Whether visiting for business or pleasure, the five boroughs have everything you need, from conference halls to theaters to restaurants and hotels—New York City remains the heartbeat of innovation, culture and opportunity. And we’re looking forward to beating our own tourism record next year with a full recovery.” Heading into 2025, New York City's tourism is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels. Smart Meeting says: Congratulations to New York City Tourism on a stellar 2024. We can't wait to report on what's next for the Big Apple!

Destinations International Releases 2025 Strategic Vision

Dec. 19, 2024—Destinations International (DI) announces its 2025 business plan and strategic priorities, reaffirming its commitment to empowering destination leaders and fostering inclusive, sustainable tourism that benefits both communities and visitors, following a meeting of the DI board of directors. DI's key accomplishments of 2024 include the addition of 77 new members, expanding the associations membership to 751 organizations across 34 countries and territories. The DI Foundation surpassed its fundraising goal and achieved over $1 million to support industry research and initiatives. According to UN Tourism, international travel is expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels in 2025. It is anticipated that over five billion travelers will take more than 40 million flights globally. The DI 2025 business plan responds to these trends, with four key priorities:

• Community: With a focus on promoting the exchange of knowledge and best practices to enable DI members and partners globally to connect and help their communities thrive.
• Professional Development: A commitment to expanding access to industry-leading certification programs like the Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME) and introducing new certificate programs that address workforce development, onboarding and upskilling.
• Advocacy and Research: Continued work to elevate and advance the mission, goals and efforts of destination organizations through a collective voice, and equipping DI members to advocate for their organizations and communities through expanding industry knowledge and access to cutting-edge research and data insights through initiatives like the 2025 Global DestinationNEXT Futures Study and new resident sentiment studies in the U.S. and Canada.
• Destination Tools: Advancing the development of tools and products built on best practices, insights and research to address key challenges, including stewardship and social inclusion, to equip members as they navigate the evolving travel industry.

DI has also scheduled a slate of training and events for 2025:

• Winter CDME Courses, February 1-4, 2025 (Austin, TX, USA) 
• Marketing & Communications Summit, February 4-6, 2025 (Austin, TX, USA) 
• CEO Summit, March 23-25, 2025 (Savannah, GA, USA)   
• Spring CDME Courses, week of April 7 (Washington, D.C. Metro area) 
• Convention Sales & Services Summit, week of April 7 (Washington, D.C. Metro area) 
• Visitor Services Summit, July 9, 2025 (Chicago, IL, USA) 
• Annual Convention, July 9-11, 2025 (Chicago, IL, USA) 
• Summer CDME Courses, July 12-15, 2025 (Chicago, IL, USA) 
• Fall CDME Courses, October 18-21, 2025 (Sacramento, CA, USA) 
• Advocacy Summit, October 21-23, 2025 (Sacramento, CA, USA) 
• Business Operations Summit, October 28-30, 2025 (Jackson, MS, USA) 
• Social Inclusion Summit, October 28-30, 2025 (Jackson, MS, USA) 

Smart Meetings says: As we move into the new year, industry organizations like Destinations International are working hard to elevate access and opportunities for their members. Keep an eye on how the tourism and travel industries evolve in the coming year as professionals in these industries take advantage of developing opportunities, and see how destinations are creating ever-better experiences for meetings and events.

See Monterey Releases AI-Enhanced Website and New Campaign

Dec. 17, 2024—See Monterey has launched a new meetings campaign and a redesigned website that utilizes travel AI. The new campaign, "Inspiration Meets Here," is a strategic mix of paid, owned, and earned media designed to interest planners by showing Monterey Country as a one-of-a-kind destination. The campaign also includes media of traditional and non-traditional venues and coastal scenery. The narrative around the campaign focuses on what is available to meeting professionals within Monterey County.  See Monterey's partnership with Mindtrip has produced a website that offers an intuitive planning experience that includes customer itinerary creation, tailored venue recommendation, and dynamic visuals and data.  Smart Meetings says: Planners looking to host their next event in Monterey County have a brand new tool in their toolbox. Head over to SeeMonterey.com and see it for yourself!

AHLA and Cvent Announce Three-year Partnership

Dec. 17, 2024—For the next three years, Cvent will be the registration platform of choice for several American Hotel & Lodging Association’s (AHLA) events. “Cvent is a longtime global leader in meetings, events, and hospitality technology, and we are thrilled to be working hand-in-hand with them to foster meaningful connections across our industry,” said AHLA Chief Operating Officer and Senior Executive Vice President Kevin Carey. “Cvent will be a vital collaborator as AHLA continues to unite hoteliers, employees, vendors, and other industry partners via our world-class events and conferences.” Through their partnership, Cvent will be the engine behind AHLA’s event registration, diagramming, attendee management and engagement, its mobile event app, and on-site check-in and badging for numerous AHLA and AHLA Foundation events. Smart Meetings Says: With streamlined access to Cvent's registration platform, AHLA’s members can experience better navigation across both platforms.

Federal Trade Commission Announces Bipartisan Rule Banning Junk Ticket, Hotel and Rental Fees

Dec. 17, 2024—Today, the FTC announced the Junk Fees Rule, banning tactics used by companies to hide total prices by burying junk fees until final purchase. The FTC asserts that these practices harm consumers and discredit businesses. “People deserve to know up-front what they’re being asked to pay—without worrying that they’ll later be saddled with mysterious fees that they haven’t budgeted for and can’t avoid,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “The FTC’s rule will put an end to junk fees around live event tickets, hotels and vacation rentals, saving Americans billions of dollars and millions of hours in wasted time. I urge enforcers to continue cracking down on these unlawful fees and encourage state and federal policymakers to build on this success with legislation that bans unfair and deceptive junk fees across the economy.” The ruling will hold companies accountable by ensuring that pricing information is presented in a timely, transparent and truthful way—the opposite of what many consumers of live-event ticketing or vacation rentals experience when the subtotal of a purchase balloons with junk fees. After the FTC received over 12,000 comments in 2022 on how these questionable practices have affected personal spending and competition, it first announced a proposed rule in October 2023 in response. An additional 60,000 comments flooded in, which were considered when developing the final rule, announced today. Among the new requirements for businesses are including an all-in total price when advertising products or services, displaying the total price more prominently than other pricing information and disclosing the nature, purpose, identity and amount of additional fees before consumers consent to payment.

Virsitour Re-launches Event Technology Platform

Dec. 13, 2024—Virsitour has announced the re-launch of its website and platform today at 1 p.m. CST. Virsitour, created to address the lack of in-person site visits during the pandemic, is a digital platform used for virtual site tours and videos of venues and services, as well as an RFP management system and lead generation tools. "The pandemic reshaped how we source and plan events," said Debbie Garcia, CMP, CEO and founder of virsitour. "We built this platform to give planners and suppliers smarter, more flexible tools to connect and create extraordinary events." Smart Meetings Says: Through its virtual site tours, virsitour saves meeting planners time and money and, since it features an RFP system and lead generation tools, makes the connection to venue suppliers that much more seamless

CEO and President of Visit Florida Announces Retirement

Dec. 10, 2024—Dana Young, president and CEO of Visit Florida, announced her retirement following six years of service to the state's tourism marketing organization. Under Young, tourism in Florida reached 140.6 million visitors in 2023, resulting in a $127.7 billion economic impact. “Dana Young’s leadership at Visit Florida has been transformative, ensuring Florida remains the top destination for travelers. Her tireless dedication has created record-breaking and lasting success for Florida’s economy and tourism industry. We are grateful for her years of service and wish her the best in her retirement," said J. Alex Kelly, Florida's secretary of commerce. Young also shared her thoughts on her time at Visit Florida, "I am so grateful to Governor DeSantis for the opportunity to lead Visit Florida for the past six years. I am very proud of the work we have done (and will continue to do) at Visit Florida, maximizing return on investment for Florida taxpayers. This has truly been the best job I have ever had, and I will miss my amazing team!” Young will remain in her role until a new President and CEO is named. Smart Meeting Says: Congratulations on your retirement, Dana Young! We wish you all the best. We are also excited for what is coming up next for Visit Florida!

Former Visit Atlantic City's Vice President of Sales Passes Away

Dec. 10, 2024—Visit Atlantic City has released a statement regarding the death of Sandi Harvey, who previously served as the organization’s vice president of sales. Harvey’s Facebook page is filled with acknowledgments of the positive impact she had on her expansive network of friends, family and colleagues. Harry Hurley, WPG Talk Radio contributor, described Harvey in part as “unselfish, hardworking, loyal and a great wife, mother and grandmother. Visit Atlantic City told the press, “The Visit Atlantic City organization is heartbroken and deeply saddened to announce that Sandi Harvey, the former vice president of sales for Visit Atlantic City, passed away from cancer over the weekend as her family gathered by her side. For over 25 years, Sandi worked tirelessly in the tourism and hospitality industry where she worked her way to the top as a female executive leading, mentoring and championing efforts in Atlantic City. She was a shining star and a bright light to everyone she met. This is a great loss to the organization, industry and community. Sandi retired from Visit Atlantic City in April 2023.”

Get Excited for the 2025 ESPA Conference in Louisville, Jan. 31 to Feb. 2

Dec. 9, 2024—The 2025 Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA) Annual Conference will take place in Louisville, Ky., Jan. 31 through Feb. 2. This year's theme, "Delivering Championship Services," captures ESPA's mission to empower CVB, hotel, convention center and venue service event managers with the latest education and professional development opportunities as well as robust networking, and equips attendees with the tools to exceed client expectations. Two celebrated hospitality industry leaders will address the attendees in a highly anticipated opening keynote, "Journey to the Winner's Circle," moderated by Lisa Bethea. CTA, CTIS, director of destination services at Visit Frisco. In this session, Cleo Battle, CEO of Louisville Tourism, and Al Hutchinson, president & CEO of Visit Baltimore, will share their leadership journeys and insight into overcoming challenges and embracing a championship mindset. Further sessions will continue to dig into the "Winner's Circle" theme, with another session featuring panelists including Amanda Benzine, associate director, Women's Basketball, NCAA; Dean Jones, director of conferences and events, Religious Conference Management Association; Anthony Maggiore, senior director, conferences and meetings, American Academy of Physician Associates; and Amanda Stratton, meeting and event planner, enterprise procurement and supplier management, Humana; with PCMA chief marketing officer Traci DePuy. In this session, these industry leaders will explore best practices for producing successful events by working collaboratively with DMOs, hotels, venues and convention centers. Further educational programming will include various breakout sessions, topic roundtables and a dedicated Leaders Program for directors and vice presidents of service, as well as networking opportunities with On the Road Workshops in Louisville, and participants can earn continuing education credits for the ESPC and to work towards earning or renewing the CMP credential. For more on continuing education and the CMP credential, take a look at our CMP Spotlight Series. The conference will also see professionals celebrated with awards including Event Service Professional of the Year, Executive Excellent, Meeting Professional of the Year and Leadership in Service. Plus, attendees will enjoy a special evening at the Kentucky Derby Museum. Those interested in attending can register on ESPA's website.

SEARCH Foundation 2025 Board of Directors, Flagship Donor Initiatives Announced 

Nov. 26, 2024—The SEARCH Foundation, a 501(c)3 that assists event professionals in crisis, has announced its 2025 board of directors: Chairwoman – Kate Patay, Terramar DMC Vice Chair – David Lombardo, Lombardo's Hospitality Group Treasurer –  Frank Puleo, Framboise Catering Secretary – Michele Polci, Caesars Entertainment Immediate Past Chair – Rick Turner, Forward Hospitality Group Crisis Relief Chair - Patrick McMichael Executive Advisor – Joann Roth-Oseary, Someone’s in the Kitchen Directors: Bobby Dutton - GBM6, Jodi Gold - Siagel Productions, Stephanie Jayko - Knockout Productions, India Rhodes - Wilkinson Rhodes, Kelly Treadway - EventCurious, Thomas Whelan - Access DMC, and JC York - Classic Entertainment Board chair Kate Patay, of Terramar DMC, remarked, 'We are excited to expand our reach with this capable team, especially after the recent back-to-back hurricanes that affected so many of our colleagues. Our ability to assist those in need will greatly benefit from the support of this board and our industry partners." After funding 100% of qualified cases this year, the SEARCH Foundation is gearing up for the new year by launching a #GivingTuesday initiative with the goal of 100 SEARCH 100 donors (a flagship program for donors who commit a minimum of $100 a month toward SEARCH’s important work).

Jamaica Tourist Board Launches Collaboration with Jamaica Travel Channel

Nov. 26, 2024—Jamaica Tourist Board has launched digital destination streaming in partnership with Jamaica Travel Channel, bringing content to over 250,000 monthly online viewers. “This partnership is in alignment with our mandate to increase awareness and bring heads to bed for the destination,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. “We welcome this addition to promote Jamaica to wider audiences that will increase our appeal as the ideal destination to visit.” The channel will reside on JTB’s website, VisitJamaica.com, and provide both prospective travelers and travel professionals with valuable information on the destination and all it has to offer. Currently, Dunn’s River Falls, RIU Hotel, Couples Hotel, Jakes Hotel, Island Routes, Mystic Mountain and The Artisan Village in Falmouth are among the brands that have attached themselves to the project. “We currently receive hundreds of emails monthly from tourists thanking us for our platform which acts as a guide for them while on island. Streaming the Jamaica Travel Channel online significantly boosts our visibility before travelers even arrive in Jamaica. With our unmatched showcase of hotels, excursions, and cultural experiences, the JTC is now Jamaica’s premiere social video influencer,” said Kimani Robinson, founder and director of Jamaica Travel Channel.

EIC Partners with Event Technology Company Gevme

Nov. 22, 2024—Events Industry Council (EIC) announced its partnership with Gevme, allowing EIC to expand its educational resources for the community of business professionals. Gevme’s AI technology will be able to further event profs’ access to knowledge, providing updates and insights from EIC’s APEX and other industry resources. A main element of the partnership will be EIC’s use of Gevme’s Snapsight tool, a content summarization tool that analyzes sessions in real-time, pulls insights and generates comprehensive summaries and takeaways. So far, Snapsight has been used by more than 15,000 attendees. "We are thrilled to welcome Gevme as our newest technology partner," said EIC President and CEO Amy Calvert. "As EIC accelerates its digital transformation, our partnership will help us leverage Gevme’s cutting-edge capabilities to deliver more engaging, data-rich experiences that foster meaningful connections." Smart Meetings Says: This partnership between EIC and Gevme will be a major benefit for event professionals and their attendees. Through the use of Gevme's AI tools, keeping attendees abreast of industry resources and engaged with post-event summaries at a quicker rate will be a breeze.

Peacock to Premiere Visit Myrtle Beach’s TV ‘Traveling the Spectrum’

Nov. 22, 2024—Visit Myrtle Beach plans to highlight the destination as a autism-friendly city in a new TV series “Traveling the Spectrum,” scheduled to air nationwide on Dec. 12 on NBCUniversal’s Peacock streaming service. The show, created in partnership with Visit Myrtle Beach and The Workshop, follows three families with members on the autism spectrum as they take a vacation to the area. “‘Traveling the Spectrum’ has the potential to change the world by helping families on the autism spectrum feel more comfortable exploring new destinations,” said Stuart Butler, chief marketing officer, Visit Myrtle Beach. “By following along on their vacations and hearing their personal stories, we see the unique challenges each family faces and how our community steps up to provide a welcoming, inclusive experience.” To watch the trailer, visit travelingthespectrumshow.com. Smart Meetings Says: Although not geared toward meeting professionals, “Traveling the Spectrum” can give them a better understanding of Myrtle Beach’s friendliness to neurodivergent attendees.

IBTM World 2024 Sees Business Boom

Nov. 21, 2024—This year’s IBTM World 2024 saw more than 73,000 pre-scheduled business meetings, an increase of over 19% from 2023. The number of visitors saw an increase of 10% and hosted buyers increased 18%, with the latter coming from more than 120 countries. The event was held in RIHGA Royal Hotel Osaka in Japan, a first for the property. “It’s been an absolutely thrilling three days, not least because we were celebrating a very special 20th anniversary in Barcelona, which only enhanced the feeling of camaraderie and togetherness,” said Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition director. “Our show didn’t disappoint. Between the phenomenal speakers with their captivating insights and ideas, our passionate exhibitors eager to engage, and the imaginative new initiatives designed to provide targeted and tangible support, it’s been an incredible gathering that reminds me just what a community we are in the events industry and how much we have to offer the world as a sector.” Smart Meetings Says: An increase in international visitation at IBTM World 2024 marks a good sign for international business travelers, highlighting not only the numerical increase in international business but the value meeting professionals see in it.

PCMA Announced 2025 Class of "20 in Their 20s"

Nov. 19, 2024—Twenty emerging leaders in global business event professionals were selected for the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA)’s annual “20 in Their 20s” program. The 2025 class represents business event organizers and suppliers from PCMA regions, including APAC, Canada, EMEA and the United States. From January 12-15, the class will be introduced at Convening Leaders 2025 (CL25) in Houston, Texas. “We are excited to celebrate the class of 2025, a remarkable group that exemplifies success, passion and dedication to shaping the future of the global business events industry,” said Meredith Rollins, PCMA chief community officer and executive director, PCMA Foundation. “As we mark the 11th year of this transformative program, we’re eager to honor their achievements and reconnect with alumni at Convening Leaders 2025.” Winners receive a range of benefits, including a scholarship for CL25, free registration for EduCon 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky, a one-year complimentary PCMA membership. The class of 2025 includes Jillian Bowdring of Meet Boston, Sierra Davey of MCI USA and Kaylee Harris of Maritz.

Greater Miami Subsidized Cost for Green Key Global Memberships

Nov. 19, 2024—Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) was the first destination in the United States to offer hotel partners in the Greater Miami and the Beaches Hotel Association 55% discounts on memberships and audit costs as part of a collaboration with Green Key Global to commit to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The Green Key Global eco-rating certification, which is endorsed by both the American Hotel and Lodging Association and the Hotel Association of Canada, empowers hotels to enhance their sustainability practices, reduce waste and cut costs while providing a rating through certification of their efforts. The announcement was made at GMCVB annual meeting where President and CEO David Whitaker reported that visitors contributed more than $20.6 billion to the local economy, an increase of almost 3%. Convention sales resulted in 406,000 room nights. Miami International Airport saw 10.6 million international visitor arrivals, a 9.6% increase and PortMiami is expected to exceed 7.3 million cruise passengers.

Visit California Launches Meetings-Focused Website

Nov. 15, 2024—Visit California has launched its new website dedicated to meetings and events. CaliforniaMeetings.com, created in partnership with California Meetings LLC, features 55 group-focused destinations throughout the state. The website will link planners to destinations and highlight the state's ability to host meetings and events. “California’s diverse selection of destinations, unique venues, commitment to innovation, and attitude of possibility position it as the premier state for meetings,” says Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California. “Our local destination marketing organizations across the state are invaluable in providing insights and direction for planners of any size meeting or event, and CaliforniaMeetings.com makes it easier than ever to connect directly with those local organizations.” Smart Meetings says: The new CaliforniaMeetings.com is a game charger for planners looking to host their event in California. For planners unfamiliar with what the Golden State has to offer, this is an amazing resource.

The Venetian and Pechanga Join Rewards Programs

Nov. 13, 2024—The Venetian Resort Las Vegas and Pechanga Resort Casino (just outside Temecula, California) launched a shared rewards program this week that affords guests of each resort access to benefits, amenities and casino club member perks. This includes exclusive invitations to events, promotions and special offers at each property. Pechanga Resort guests already have access to attend Los Angeles Lakers, LA Clippers, Los Angeles Rams, Los Angeles Chargers, Los Angeles Angels and San Diego Wave games, events at Pechanga Arena San Diego, SoFi Stadium and Intuit Dome. Smart Meetings says: As attendees and planners increasingly look to collect loyalty points, look for more partnerships like this from independent properties to compete with big brands.

New Wellness Catalog from Body and Brain Wellness Features Immersive Experiences

Nov. 7, 2024—Body and Brain Wellness, an immersive wellness experiences provider for conventions, conferences, trade shows, workplaces and employee incentives across the United States and internationally, released a new catalog of multi-modal exercises, brain breaks and team building available at their retreat locations, as a pop-up on location or virtually. Corporate workplace wellness packages are also available. Smart Meetings says: Infusing wellness into your event with stretching breaks is preferred by many audiences to a full hours scheduled at 6 a.m. No going to the room to change or setting an alarm after a late night required.

Visit Baltimore Celebrated Winning High-tech Bid for ASAE 2033

Nov. 7, 2024—At Visit Baltimore Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Meeting this week, President and CEO Al Hutchinson celebrated the successful bid for the 2033 American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) Annual Meeting and Exposition. The RFP response positioned Baltimore as the convention city of the future, complete with a virtual reality presentation, A.I. generated renderings of the city in 2033 and a robot dog, named Edgar. Hutchinson also reported that in 2023, domestic travel generated $4 billion for Baltimore’s economy. “As we work to write the story of Baltimore’s future being driven by innovation, equity and sustainability, we continue to uplift our vibrant community, diverse small businesses and dedicated hospitality partners who are at the heart of making Baltimore a top destination for leisure visitors and meeting planners alike," he said. Smart Meetings says: AI is showing up in ways cute and transformative. Creating renderings of a future venue is a smart use of the generative technology.

Montage Boosts HR Initiatives to Attract Employees

Nov. 6, 2024—The luxury hotel management company Montage International introduced new human resources initiatives designed to attract and retain employees. Features focus on financial mental and social help.

• On-Demand Wages with DailyPay: This recently announced partnership empowers associates across the U.S. to access their earned wages, giving them the flexibility to manage their finances in real time (see formal release below).

• Commitment to Mental Health: Through Rula, colleagues receive comprehensive mental health services from affordable, in-network providers.

• Paid Sabbaticals: Eligible employees can take up to four weeks of paid leave to recharge and pursue personal interests, like volunteering, traveling or research.

• Hearts of Montage: A program where colleagues can serve the local community from children’s education and senior citizen care to environmental protection and education.

• The Compass Cup:  This annual ping pong tournament across all Montage and Pendry resorts and the corporate offices has fueled engagement and connectivity.

“We want our associates to be empowered, especially when it comes to their personal well-being,” said Mandy Holloway, executive vice president and chief people officer at Montage International. Smart Meetings says: Any program that means we will arrive at our venues to find happy, fully-staffed teams is a win.

Ann Arbor is Michigan's First 'Destination Verified' Community with Wheel the World

Nov. 4, 2024—Wheel the World, a global leader in accessible tourism, has classified the Ann Arbor area with its "Destination Verified" status. This status recognizes a destination's demonstrated leadership in creating an inclusive and accessible destination for travelers of all abilities, and promotes inclusivity by ensuring visitors with physical, cognitive and invisible disabilities can trust that a destination with this status will provide an incredible travel experience. Participating businesses are listed on the Wheel the World platform, and have access to the Wheel the World Academy to engage in further training on accessibility best practices. Ann Arbor is the first destination in Michigan to earn this status. Smart Meetings says: Travelers of all abilities know that Ann Arbor provides a holistically accessible travel experience, and planners organizing meetings know that all attendees of all abilities will have the access and resources they need for an outstanding experience. If planners want to learn more about the accessibility ratings of different destinations, they can look at Wheel the World's platform to find destinations that meet their own and their attendees' accessibility needs.

Caesars Entertainment, Inc. Enters into Definitive Agreement to Sell the LINQ Promenade

Nov. 1, 2024—On Tuesday, Caesars Entertainment announced its agreement to sell the LINQ Promenade to a future venture between TPG Real Estate (TPG) and the Investment Management Platform of Acadia Realty Trust (Acadia) for $275 million. The sale, which is subject to customary approvals and other closing conditions, is expected to be finalized in the fourth quarter of this year. “The sale of the LINQ Promenade represents an accretive, non-core asset sale that will accelerate our debt reduction goals. I want to thank all the team members and the tenants of the LINQ Promenade for their partnership over the last 10 years and wish them continued success,” said Tom Reeg, CEO of Caesars Entertainment, Inc.

SF Travel and the Bay Area Host Committee Announce Partnership

Nov. 1, 2024—An innovative partnership between the Bay Area Host Committee (BAHC) and the San Francisco Travel Association, the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco, has been announced as part of BAHC’s Alliance Partner Program. “San Francisco Travel is more than a partner, they are the ultimate city resource, working to promote San Francisco as one of the world’s premier tourism destinations,” said Zaileen Janmohamed, president & CEO of BAHC. “It’s an honor for the Bay Area Host Committee to help solidify San Francisco as the epicenter of sport culture with three major global sporting events taking place in the Bay in the next two years.” The alliance, which allots San Francisco Travel an Executive Representative seat on the BAHC Advisory Board, will include efforts to increase sports events in the area, promote associated activations and confirm future events. Upcoming announcements regarding Superbowl LX and FIFA World Cup 2026 are expected to be released at a later date. Additional sports-related activations include:

• San Francisco Museum of Modern Art’s “Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture” exhibit, along with six sports-related companion exhibitions, features roughly 200 objects in different mediums showcased on several floors and runs through February 18.
• The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) will debut a “Love + Basketball” exhibit timed to next year’s NBA All-Star Game on view from Feb. 5 to March 2, 2025.
• NBA All-Star activations at Moscone Center and neighboring businesses will celebrate the event throughout the city.

Visit Dallas Celebrates Record Growth and Future Initiatives 

Nov. 1, 2024—This week Visit Dallas hosted their annual meetings with city leaders, tourism stakeholders and community members to look forward into 2025. The event highlighted the upcoming FIFA World Cup 26th, the city's new "Maverick, Can-Do Spirit" brand identity, as well as the winters of the Can-Do Spirit Awards. In a recent study done by Tourism Economics Dallas welcomed 27 million visitors in 2023. Resulting in $10.5 billion in economic impact. In 2024, Visit Dallas booked over 2.4 million nights, resulting in over 2 billion dollars in economic impact. “There’s so much on the horizon for our city - the expanding convention center, airport developments, hotel growth and the MICHELIN Guide Texas,” said Craig Davis, President and CEO of Visit Dallas. “Dallas truly is an emerging global city, and these developments hold incredible promise for our future.” Smart Meeting says: Congratulations to the Visit Dallas team, on an amazing 2024! We can't wait to see what more Dallas cooks up in 2025!

MGM Resorts International Donates $20K to Healing Center on Behalf of Meetings & Conventions Clients

Oct. 31, 2024—MGM Resorts International has announced a $20,000 donation to the Healing Center at St. Jude’s Ranch for Children as part of their Mindful Matters program. Mindful Matters is an event series that serves to spotlight the company’s commitment to mindfulness, wellness and community support. St. Jude’s Ranch for Children is a residential campus that provides critical support to child victims of sex trafficking in order to help them emerge from their trauma as thriving members of their communities. MGM Resorts International has partnered with Fit City Adventures to create the Mindful Matters event series, incorporating various wellness activities that serve to rejuvenate meetings and conventions professionals. “Our goal with the Mindful Matters series was to give our clients meaningful experiences that not only support their well-being but also contribute to the betterment of our community,” said Stephanie Glanzer, chief sales officer and senior vice president at MGM Resorts. “We are proud of the success of the series and that we are able to support the Healing Center by St. Jude’s Ranch for Children and the incredible work they’ll do.”

Hotel Workers Arrested Following Protest in Downtown San Francisco

Oct. 31, 2024—According to KTVU News, around 84 striking hotel workers and supporters were arrested during a protest near Union Square in San Francisco. The protesters were arrested for blocking traffic that also included the cable car tracks. Protesters carried signs that read, "Bet on SF," and chanted, "no contact, no peace". After refusing to leave, the protesters were arrested and later released. The protest stems from the continued contract negotiations and hotel worker striker that began in September. The workers attached to the protest are from San Francisco Marriott Union Square, the Grand Hyatt San Francisco Union Square and the Hilton San Francisco Union Square.Smart Meetings says: As planners continue to plan their events in San Francisco make sure to check with the Local Unite Here! 2 website for any updates around the strike and make sure your attendees are aware of the situation.

Excel London Acquires Business Design Centre

[caption id="attachment_165451" align="aligncenter" width="2500"] Business Design Centre[/caption] Oct. 30, 2024—Excel London, subsidiary of ADNEC Group, has completed the acquisition of BDCG Holdings Company, owner of Business Design Centre. The North London venue features more than 64,000 sq. ft. of dedicated event and meeting space, and more than 130,000 sq. ft. of space for showrooms and offices. After ADNEC’s acquisition of Excel in 2008, the venue has continued to expand and in 2010 became London’s first international convention center. Its recent expansion of 269,000 sq. ft. of MICE space has made Excel the largest conference venue in Europe at 1.35 million sq. ft. of space. “Since acquiring Excel more than 15 years ago, ADNEC has demonstrated unwavering support for London’s event and business tourism industry," said Jeremy Rees, CEO of Excel. “The acquisition of the prestigious BDC further underscores this commitment. We look forward to integrating BDC into the ADNEC ecosystem and will continue to invest significantly to ensure both Excel and BDC offer the highest-quality platforms for the events industry, reinforcing London’s status as a leading global events destination.” Read about Excel London’s comprehensive sustainability strategy here. Smart Meetings Says: Excel’s investment in the United Kingdom’s MICE industry will further cement the kingdom’s role and commitment to growth. For meeting professionals, this means more opportunities for meetings in London.

Chef Gordon Ramsay Brings Ramsay’s Kitchen to North Carolina

Oct. 30, 2024—Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel have partnered to bring Ramsay’s Kitchen to the Murphy, North Carolina, property in early 2025. Ramsay’s Kitchen is expected to open along with the $275 million expansion of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River. The restaurant’s 12,000-square-foot layout will have the capacity to hold more than 190 attendees in its indoor space and outdoor rooftop terrace, as well as its private dining area. “We’re incredibly excited to continue our partnership with the Ramsay team and introduce this new dining concept at our property,” said Lumpy Lambert, general manager of Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel. “The cozy ambiance of the venue, paired with Chef Ramsay’s thoughtfully curated, internationally inspired menu will undoubtedly provide our guests with an unforgettable experience.” Ramsay’s Kitchen is also stationed in Naperville, Illinois; Oklahoma City; Boston; St. Louis; and Las Vegas, its most recent opening in December 2022.

U.S. Airlines Required to Automatically Refund Passengers for Cancellations or Significant Delays

Oct. 29, 2024—On Monday, Oct. 28, the U.S. Department of Transportation passed a new rule requiring airlines in the United States to automatically process refunds to passengers if their flight is "canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept the significantly changed flight, rebooking on an alternative flight or alternative compensation." The rule specifies that airlines must refund a passenger the full, unused price of their ticket within seven days if passengers purchased the flight on a credit card, and within 20 calendar days for other forms of payment. In the case that only a portion of the trip was canceled, such as if a passenger's connecting flight was canceled, airlines are not required to issue refunds for portions of the trip that the passenger had already flown. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg first presented the proposed rule in April 2024, and in the face of resulting backlash from the airline industry, communicated to airlines that they are responsible for making clear to passengers when they are entitled to a refund. Smart Meetings says: This rule comes at an especially relevant time on the eve of the busy holiday travel season. For those who will travel throughout the holidays, as well as for frequent business travelers who fly year-round, this new rule holds airlines more accountable when people face major travel disruptions. Earlier iterations of this rule still required refunds, but new provisions make those refunds automatic, so passengers do not need to request a refund, and specify that those refunds must be made as the original form of payment rather than be covered by airline vouchers, points or credits if the passenger did not pay for their flight that way. This development eases burdens on travelers and is a move towards avoiding any undue financial burdens or additional stress that come along with major travel disruptions, ensuring travelers are fairly compensated for such disruptions.

"Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Announces $275 Million Transformation Project

[caption id="attachment_165249" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Walt Disney World Dolphin expansion rending[/caption] Oct. 25, 2024—Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin announced its largest expansion to date. In a project that will invest $275 million over the next couple of years, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin will add 120,000 sq. ft. of event space to its current floor plan, bringing its meeting space to 469,000 sq. ft. among the complex’s three buildings, Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve. “We look forward to delivering such a major transformation for our customers. These enhancements will be a great addition to our iconic and award-winning operation,” said Area General Manager Sean Verney. “It positions our property to remain at the forefront of meeting and convention venues globally.” This will be Walt Disney World Dolphin’s first major expansion since 2003. A new two-story building will be added, connecting to the hotel’s existing convention space; with this addition, 65,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose and foyer space will be on offer for meeting professionals. This project will break ground in November and is set for completion late summer 2026. The existing 333,000 sq. ft. of meeting space at Swan and Dolphin is being modernized and equipped with new event technology. Walt Disney World Dolphin’s ballrooms and breakout spaces have recently completed an upgrade, and similar upgrades on the way at Swan, which are slated for completion by summer 2025. Walt Disney World Swan’s 349 guest rooms will also be enhanced and is slated for completion this year. Smart Meetings Says: This exciting development is part of a wider trend in Orlando. We are seeing an increase in elevated adult experiences versus family-focused travel, with projects such as expansions, renovations and new builds leading the way.

AHLA Foundation Awards 2025 Hospitality Scholarships

Oct. 24, 2024—The AHLA Foundation, the charitable arm of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), announced it has distributed nearly one million dollars in scholarship funding for students at hospitality programs around the United States. The Foundation distributed a total of $944,000 among 369 students across 88 different colleges and universities, as well as over $30,000 to more than 20 students as part of an incoming Freshmen scholarship pilot program. Three community colleges participated in the pilot program to increase interest and enrollment within their hospitality programs: Frederick Community College, Northampton Community College and Valencia College. AHLA Foundation awards two types of scholarships: self-nominated, which allows students to apply directly to be considered for one of eight scholarships regardless of where they attend school; and school-nominated, which is restricted to one of the 67 schools affiliated with the AHLA Foundation. Since its creation in 1953, AHLA Foundation has dispersed over $16 million in academic scholarships, providing access to education for thousands of future industry leaders. Smart Meetings says: Programs such as this expand access to opportunity for individuals who have demonstrated commitment to the industry for their future careers. By supporting hospitality students today, we support the industry leaders of tomorrow, and ensure that this fantastic industry continues to grow, evolve, and become ever-better.

Global DMC Partners Releases 2024 Global Destination Index

Oct. 24, 2024—Global DMC Partners has released its 2024 Global Destination Index, highlighting the world’s most popular meeting and incentive destinations. The list is based on leads and RFPs in 2024, and Global DMC’s partners. The Top 10 U.S. and International MICE for 2024 are: Top 10 U.S.                                       

1. Chicago, IL
2. Washington, D.C.
3. New York, NY
4. Las Vegas, NV
5. Nashville, TN
6. Dallas, TX
7. Miami, FL
8. Orlando, FL
9. Austin, TX
10. San Diego, CA

Top 10 International

1. Paris, France
2. Barcelona, Spain
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands
4. London, England
5. Lisbon, Portugal
6. Athens, Greece
7. Madrid, Spain
8. Vienna, Austria
9. Rome, Italy
10. Berlin, Germany

“It’s interesting to see the new destinations that have made this year’s list, as well as the changing order in popularity of the top 10, particularly as our industry is a great indicator of the world’s economic strength and where the most business is being done,” said Global DMC Partners President and CEO Catherine Chaulet. “We’ve also seen an increased interest in secondary destinations with an uptick in leads for 2024 or 2025, as compared to prior years.” Smart Meetings Says: A greater interest in these destinations could mean more development via increased spending and thus more opportunities to create memorable experiences for corporate groups.

Clarion Launches Events Collaborative

Oct. 24, 2024—Clarion Events, the world’s largest privately owned event and exhibition organizer, has debuted The Clarion Events Collaborative to partner with associations that host revenue-producing events. The offering, according to a press release, provides associations “a unique experience partnering with a for-profit organization.” Associations “gain access to vast knowledge and experience, ensuring their events are successful, memorable, and impactful. This will deliver increased ROI for members while associations maintain ownership interest [and can] focus on their core mission, vision, and values while Clarion Events handles the complexities of event strategy and management and partners for meaningful community engagement.” Clarion’s move builds on years of work done for associations as varied as International Consumer Technology Association for IFA Berlin consumer and electronic show and the Indian Gaming Association’s Tradeshow and Convention in San Diego. Chris Brown, principal at Level Up Event Strategies, will lead the effort along with Liz Irving, president of Clarion Events North America. “The partnerships they have built in North America and globally,” said Brown of Clarion, “are a true testament to their understanding of what it takes to form a successful association partnership and professionalism within the events they deliver. Smart Meetings Says: The initiative gives associations the potential to enhance the revenue and impact of their tradeshow events.

Marriott International and MGM Resorts to Launch W Las Vegas

Oct. 21, 2024—Marriott International and MGM Resorts International have announced plans to convert Delano Las Vegas to W Las Vegas on the Mandalay Bay campus. Scheduled to complete its conversion later this year, this follows the two brands’ strategic licensing agreement, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, that was announced July 2023. This conversion will add the property to the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. “Our relationship with Marriott has far exceeded our expectations, demonstrating the power of its brand portfolio and the strength of their distribution channels,” said Steve Zanella, president of MGM Resorts Operations. “W Las Vegas, the latest hotel to come to life as part of our collaboration, will allow our guests to access a new luxury lifestyle experience recognized worldwide for its distinct personality, dynamic programming and elevated service culture.”

Baha Mar Unveils Expansion Plans with New Beachfront Resort and Residences

 Baha Mar has announced its expansion plans to add a fourth location to its “luxury of choice” collection at Cable Beach in The Bahamas. The resort will be designed by Fosters + Partners, and its 25,000 sq. ft. of dedicated meetings and events space will be situated on 12 beachfront acres. An additional 14,000 sq. ft. spa and fitness center will include luxury retailers, pools, an outdoor bar, entertainment lounges and family amenities. Graeme Davis, president of Baha Mar, said of the development, “Baha Mar is committed to creating spectacular experiences, and this $350 million capital investment in our world-class resort collection underscores Baha Mar’s role as a catalyst for continued economic growth and job creation in the Bahamas. We are grateful to the government of The Bahamas for their continued support and our collaborative partnership in bringing this new development to life.” The resort will offer 350 rooms, 50 luxury branded residences, a 10,000 sq. ft. ballroom, access to the $200 million luxury waterpark Baha Bay and numerous top-tier services.

Visit West Hollywood Launches 40th Anniversary Campaign

Oct. 17, 2024—Today, Visit West Hollywood announced the launch of its 40^th anniversary campaign, titled “Iconic. Forever.” The campaign will include a partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue, with elements including a dedicated campaign across Saks’ digital channels and window displays at the retailer’s flagship New York store that depict West Hollywood’s culture and international influence. The collaboration runs from October 16 to October 29. The campaign will focus on five elements that have long defined West Hollywood: culinary, wellness, retail, inclusivity and entertainment. There will also be sweepstakes for 40 West Hollywood hotel nights. “This milestone represents four decades of boundary-breaking innovation and community,” states Tom Kiely, president and CEO of Visit West Hollywood. “West Hollywood’s future is brighter than ever, and we’re thrilled to celebrate with Saks, a brand that embodies the same forward-thinking and iconic status that we strive for.”

Destination DC Announces Expanded Washington, DC Special Agent Academy

Oct. 17, 2024—Destination DC (DDC) has announced the expansion of its training platform for travel agents, tour operators and local hospitality workers. The training will provide additional knowledge and tools for best promoting Washington, DC as a top-tier travel destination. The Washington, DC Special Agent Academy combines essential DC knowledge with in-depth reviews of neighborhoods, festivals and landmarks. Students, or “Special Agents,” as they are referred to by DDC, will complete designated missions and access exclusive discounts, potential prizes and support from DDC’s Tourism, Sports and Visitor Experience team. Current modules are presented in English, with an additional seven languages being added over the coming months as part of a wider international effort to promote Washington, DC. “We know there’s Only One Washington, DC, and we want to share that message with consumers and hospitality professionals,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. “The training tools will help us enhance the knowledge, image and perception of Washington, DC as we focus on growing DC’s global visitor market share and set our city apart.” The Special Agent Academy is available on LearnUpon, a new learning management system noted for its user-friendly platform.

Four Seasons Launches Lucid Partnership with Exclusive Event

[caption id="attachment_164933" align="alignleft" width="300"] MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 15: Motor vehicles on display during the Four Seasons and Lucid Motors Sustainable Driving Experiences Launch on October 15, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Rodrigo Varela/Getty Images for The Four Seasons Miami)[/caption] Oct. 17, 2024—On Tuesday, Four Seasons celebrated its partnership with the electronic vehicle company Lucid at Four Seasons Hotel Miami private event. Attendees included actor and entrepreneur Aaron Paul, Four Seasons President and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro Reynal, Lucid Chief Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer Peter Rawlinson. The collaboration will offer Four Seasons guests flexible and sustainable experiences, such as complimentary Lucid vehicle driving experiences, chauffeured Lucid house cars and electric charging stations available at participating Four Seasons properties, including Four Seasons Hotel Miami and Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Fort Lauderdale.

Ian Edwards, Celtic Manor Resort CEO, Dies

Oct. 16, 2024—The Celtic Collection has announced the passing of Ian Edwards, after a bout of illness. Edwards was the CEO of Celtic Manor Resort and ICC Wales. With more than 40 years of industry experience, who not only was leader in growing Celtic Manor Resort but was also behind the recent expansion of The Celtic Collection, which has become Wales’ largest independent hotel group. Edwards was also a master innholder, a fellow of the Institute of Hospitality and served on the boards of Visit Britain and Western Gateway. “Ian Edwards will be remembered as a visionary leader whose contributions to the hospitality sector have left a lasting legacy in Wales and beyond,” said Simon Gibson, CBE, board member of Celtic Manor Resort. “His dedication, warmth, and innovative spirit will continue to inspire the industry for years to come. “His leadership and delivery of large-scale projects, such as the Ryder Cup and the NATO Summit, stand as a testament to his strategic vision and his ability to elevate Wales globally. Growing Celtic Manor Resort into a collection of successful hotels was another hallmark of his remarkable career, reinforcing his reputation as one of the leading figures in the UK hospitality industry. “Ian was known not just for his business acumen but also for his people-centered leadership. He often credited his successes to the hardworking teams he led, fostering an environment of innovation and excellence in the sector. His vision extended beyond business, as he also revitalized the local community through his role in initiatives such as the ReNewport Task Force and the Business in the Community Place Programme. “Ian will be greatly missed by colleagues and friends, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family.”

Atlanta Named Super Bowl LXII Host

Oct. 15, 2024—The fourth Super Bowl hosted in Atlanta will be held at the Georgia Dome in 2028, thanks to a bid orchestrated by the Atlanta Sports Council in collaboration with the Atlanta Falcons, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia World Congress Center Authority, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, City of Atlanta and the State of Georgia. Atlanta hosted the 1994, 2000 and 2019 Super Bowl competitions, and is gearing up for a particularly impressive series of global sporting events, including the College Football Playoff National Championship and MLB All-Star Game in 2025, FIFA World Cup in 2026 and the NCAA Men’s Final Four in 2031. “Atlanta is thrilled to host Super Bowl XLII and welcome fans from across the NFL to our city,” said William Pate, president and CEO, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau. “It’s an honor to host this prestigious event in our city for the fourth time and showcase what makes us the leader in hosting championship events.”

Abu Dhabi Set to Be Next Sphere Location

[caption id="attachment_164886" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Photo: Sphere Entertainment[/caption] Oct. 15, 2024—Sphere Entertainment Co. and the Department of Culture and Tourism—Abu Dhabi have announced that they will work together to bring the second Sphere to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. “The vision for Sphere has always included a global network of venues, and today’s announcement is a significant milestone toward that goal,” said James L. Dolan, executive chairman and CEO of Sphere Entertainment. “Sphere is redefining live entertainment and extending the reach of its transformative impact. We are proud to collaborate with DCT Abu Dhabi to develop Sphere in their city.” The first Sphere opened in Las Vegas in 2023 and has since been the venue for concerts, short films and the highest-grossing UFC fight in history. A date has not been set for construction. Smart Meetings Says: More entertainment venues around the world offer meeting professionals and their attendees more chances to engage in memorable experiences.

Gary/Chicago International Airport Hosts Critical Infrastructure Groundbreaking Ceremony

Oct. 11, 2024—The Gary/Chicago International Airport (GCIA) held a ceremonial groundbreaking on October 8 to celebrate the first phase of a substantial expansion of the airport’s critical air cargo sector. A $24 million infrastructure enhancement of the airport was announced at the event, which includes a fuel pipeline project, new sanitary sewer system, deicing facility and new cargo logistics apron. “This is a pivotal step to securing the future of our increasingly important air cargo offering, with these infrastructure investments made possible by the past several years’ of increasing cargo sector growth,” said Dan Vicari, executive director of the Gary/Chicago International Airport. “We are immensely grateful for the partnership of Congressman Mrvan, the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and the State of Indiana for their continued support for our airport and its ability to fuel the local economy.” Smart Meetings Says: These upgrades to GCIA are a continuation of ongoing efforts, which began in 2015 with the expansion of the airport’s main runway.

ICCA and BestCities Announce 2024 Incredible Impacts Program Finalists

Oct. 10, 2024—The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and BestCities Global Alliance have announced the three international associations that have made it to the final round of competition for a $20,000 grant through their 2024 Incredible Impacts Program at the ICCA Congress later this month. The grant competition focuses on innovative thinking and creativity, with the winning organization selected based on its success in its field and its “proven impact in shaping a better world,” says ICCA. The three finalists are: International Hip Preservation Society: An association centered on expanded treatment options for lower-income families across Africa. Currently, its focus is on constructing hip preservation hubs for patients of all ages across the continent. European Academy of Childhood Disability: The association began its EACD+ program to improve the lives of those with childhood-onset disabilities through access to sports, culture and technology. Its future goals are to expand its host destinations and create an Impact Creation Task Force that focuses on raising awareness and advocacy, as well as positively impacting future inclusive policies throughout Europe. World Association of News Publishers: This association works to increase civic engagement and build better-informed societies. Following a project to identify “news values” criteria in order to assist news organizations in reaching younger audiences, WAN-IFRA, as the association is commonly known, intends to extend its global outreach while including vulnerable populations such as women and immigrants. The ICCA Congress will be held October 20–23 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and will feature presentations from all three associations, with winners selected by a final score tallied by both a jury and an audience. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, said of the competition, “Incredible Impacts helps shine a light on the valuable work organizations do to expand and improve the legacy associations bring to host destinations, and it's crucial that we support these efforts, which not only strengthen our industry but positively impact the communities we visit.” Smart Meetings Says: We love learning about impactful programs affecting real-world change despite inevitable challenges. We congratulate all the contestants on their nominations.

Balboa Travel and Edward Perotti, CMP CMM Partner to Offer Expanded Meeting and Event Services

Oct. 8, 2024—Travel management company Balboa Travel has announced a new partnership with Edward Perotti, CMP CMM. The collaboration will offer meeting profs innovative meetings and events solutions for their gatherings, large or small. “This partnership is a game changer in the industry,” said Stephen Thomas-Schulere, senior vice president, Strategic Solutions at Balboa Travel. “Combining our management expertise and location sourcing power with Edward Perotti’s unique vision and ability to deliver memorable and emotional experiences puts us on the cutting edge of customized event management for everything from intimate gatherings to large conferences.” Balboa offers its clients a matching service for meeting profs and venues, with over 300,000 international hotels, resorts and conference centers to choose from. “In today’s environment, it’s critical to bring the right people and technology to the table,” said Thomas-Schulere. “We’re meeting the moment for our clients, whether their events are driven by a unique corporate culture, sustainability goals, philanthropy or personalization at scale, the right people and platforms ensure the best event, at any size or budget.” Smart Meetings Says: This new partnership between Balboa Travel and Edward Perotti, CMP CMM is shaping up to be a major resource for meeting profs.

St. Maarten's Airport Launches Advanced Border Control System with Digital Entry Form

Oct. 3, 2024—Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) will launch a state-of-the-art automated border control system beginning on Oct. 8, 2024. As of Oct. 8, passengers will be required to visit www.entry.sx and complete their documentation ahead of their travel. In the future, the system will include biometric integration, so passengers can use their biometrics to clear border control. Further phases of the project will include Advance Passenger Information Systems and Passenger Name Record Systems. All phases meet General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) standards and data privacy protection for travelers. PJIAE launches the new system out of a collaboration with the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunication (TEATT). Minister of TEATT, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, says, "With improved data collection and analysis, the airport, and the Ministry of TEATT will be able to enhance their services, adapt to current trends, and further contribute to the development and prosperity of our country." Minister of Justice, Lyndon Lewis says, "This project aims to streamline the passenger registration process by introducing the necessary digital equipment, along with a user-friendly website where individuals entering the country can conveniently register their information beforehand and be processed by Immigration. By providing this digital platform, the Ministry of Justice will have the necessary tools to carry out their vital duties more efficiently, ensuring the safety and well- being of our nation." The system is part of an ongoing reconstruction project that includes a full renovation of the airport. Smart Meetings says: The new system is one of many to emerge that shows the increasing digitalization of travel and documentation for visitors traveling internationally. It will streamline the travel experience of those visiting St. Maarten and provide an experience that is both more efficient and more secure. With St. Maarten being an ever-popular destination for the MICE industry, business event travelers attending meetings, events and incentives in the country should be made aware of the changes they'll encounter after Oct. 8 and beyond so they know to digitally complete their travel documentation ahead of their travel at www.entry.sx, and any other steps they may need to take for future phases, which planners can include in pre-event communications.

New Partnership Between SITE Global and Soundings Offers Meeting Profs Benefits in Incentive Travel Industry

Oct. 3, 2024—A new partnership between SITE Global and Soundings was announced today, combining SITE’s incentive travel expertise with Soundings’ innovative talent development approach. Benefits include providing meeting profs with new knowledge, tools and networks that will keep them up to date in an ever-evolving market. "SITE's partnership with Soundings enables us to expand our community and provide meaningful education on the incentive industry to a broader audience," said Annette Gregg, CEO, SITE Global. "As we engage the next generation of talent, authenticity and a sense of purpose become even more significant." The key benefits outlined in the announcement of the new partnership are access to comprehensive learning and development, expanded networks and opportunities, and access to specialized research and insights. Smart Meetings Says: IMEX attendees will have the chance to learn more about this new resource by visiting the SITE Global stand, F317.

Net Zero Carbon Events Joins Global Climate Action Portal

Oct. 2, 2024—Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE), a global initiative to unite the business events industry in reducing carbon emissions across the sector, has officially joined the Global Climate Action Portal (GCAP), a platform that tracks and showcases the progress of climate commitments made by state and non-state entities. The GCAP platform provides transparency and accountability as it presents the progress of Cooperative Climate Initiatives. This move follows NZCE's earlier commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and alignment with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). James Rees, president of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), says,  "The inclusion of Net Zero Carbon Events in the Global Climate Action Portal is a major milestone, as it strengthens our relationship with the UNFCCC and, most importantly, enhances the accountability of NZCE, now recognized as our industry’s prime initiative to address climate change. By reporting our progress through GCAP, we are ensuring greater transparency and showcasing the collective achievements of our stakeholders." As NZCE approaches the end of its first annual reporting cycle, coming up in December 2024, NZCE calls on all signatories who joined the initiative by the end of 2023 to fulfil their reporting obligations. Alexander Alles, executive director of JMIC, says, "These reports will be essential in demonstrating the event industry’s progress toward reducing carbon emissions and achieving net zero targets." Smart Meetings says: NZCE's move to join GCAP will hold it accountable to its goals as GCAP tracks its real-world progress, demonstrating the crucial role of accountability when it comes to tackling climate change. NZCE leads by example with this move at a moment when it calls on its signatories to fulfill their reporting obligations alongside, and this call additionally demonstrates the importance of collective action in the global fight against climate change.

Association Forum Announces the 2024 Class of Forty Under 40

Oct. 1, 2024—The 2024 Class of Forty Under 40, which celebrates recipients’ career accomplishments, commitment to the industry and their continued pursuit to advance the professional practice of association management, has been unveiled by Association Forum. Winners including Ellen Zimmerman, Sandra Schueller and Andrea Schmidl will be celebrated during the 2024 Holiday Showcase - Amplify on December 4-5, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.

"Association Forum proudly unveils this year’s cohort of changemakers, an extraordinary group that ignites inspiration across our community. These leaders exemplify the essence of new power leadership, leveraging their innovative mindset and intrapreneurial drive to push boundaries and reshape the industry," says Artesha Moore, FASAE, CAE, President and CEO of Association Forum.

VAI Resort Announces Grand Opening will Include a State-of-the-Art Convention Center

Oct. 1, 2024—The highly-anticipated VAI Resort, a hotel, culinary and live entertainment destination set to open in 2025 in metro Phoenix, announces plans for a state-of-the-art convention center. The VAI Resort Convention Center will bring over 150,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, featuring 34 customizable room configurations, which enables the convention center to host multiple, simultaneous events. Throughout the venue, attendees will enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, and planners will find highly modernized audiovisual technology throughout all meeting space, with world-class sound, visuals and presentation support. The entire venue is designed with accessibility top-of-mind to ensure it meets the needs of attendees and visitors of all abilities. The convenient underground valet service, as well as additional parking in an adjacent garage, ensure that all exhibitors and attendees joining a meeting or event can access the venue easily. Planners will be thrilled with the on-site, dedicated event planning team that will work closely alongside them to ensure a seamless event experience and bring out the best of the convention center suited to the unique needs of each event. The VAI Resort Convention Center is another exciting addition to the eagerly-awaited resort, which will offer 1,100 guest rooms and an 11,000+ capacity amphitheater. Its culinary program, rooted in locally-sourced ingredients and regional products to create global favorites, will offer customizable experiences from intimate dining gatherings to large group feasts. Rian Kirkman, senior vice president of marketing at VAI Resort, says, "Meetings at VAI offer a truly unique experience. Along with state-of-the-art technology and versatile meeting spaces in our Conference Center, we provide unforgettable outdoor venues like Konos Island and the VAI Amphitheater, ensuring attendees will always remember their time here. With 1,100 rooms, 12 restaurants, entertainment venues, a spa, and the Mattel Theme Park, everything is conveniently located in one place—making it a dream for meeting planners."

OCCC Brings Nearly $4 Billion in Economic Impact to Central Florida, According to New Study

Sept. 30, 2024—According to a new study conducted by PFM Consulting Group, the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) generates $3.9 billion annually, supporting 28,100 jobs and benefitting 1,200 local businesses. PFM Consulting Group conducted its study based on data through 2023, and found that in 2023, the OCCC brought a total economic impact of $3.9 billion through direct, indirect and induced impacts. The study also found that 28,100 individuals are employed both directly and indirectly through activity at OCCC and an estimated 1,200 local businesses depend on the OCCC's event activity fully or partially. The facilities directly supported by convention center activities, such as hotels, restaurants, offices and more, generate about $28.9 million in tax revenue for Orange County schools. In recent years, the study found, the OCCC has averaged nearly 200 events that attracted an estimated 1.5 million attendees annually. "The positive economic and fiscal impact made by the OCCC over time through a strong clientele base, sustained investment in facilities and ongoing competitive improvements in the convention and visitor experience have contributed to the development of many service industries throughout the region," says Stan Geberer, senior managing consultant at PFM Group Consulting. "We are pleased to report the substantial gains in economic contribution and government revenue made by the Center in this post-COVID era which exceed the value of contributions made prior to the pandemic." OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester says, "We are steadfast in our mission of being an economic engine for the Central Florida region and infusing our local economy with new business and tourism opportunities,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “This study confirms that we are working in alignment with our mission and that the business conducted at The Center of Hospitality is positively impacting Orange County communities."

Caesars New Orleans Tower to Open This Fall

Sept. 27, 2004—The former Harrah’s site in New Orleans has been revitalized with the upcoming debut of the new 340-room, 15-floor Caesars New Orleans tower this fall. Caesars Entertainment has invested $435 million in this project, which includes a 54-room Nobu Hotel and Nobu Restaurant, along with an upgraded Harrah’s Tower. With a total of 790 rooms and suites, this venue will offer meeting profs a premier destination for events. Guests can enjoy a refreshed hotel lobby experience and a reception area accommodating up to 700 people. Additionally, the former Masquerade nightclub will reopen as Octavia this summer, providing attendees with a vibrant spot to unwind after a day of meetings. Hotel guests will also have a view of the Caesars Superdome, which recently underwent $500 million in renovations and will host the 2025 Super Bowl, along with offering 162,434 sq. ft. of meeting space. Smart Meetings Says: Caesars Entertainment venues have long been recognized as top choices for meeting professionals, and this latest addition is set to be an excellent option for events in the Big Easy.

Hosts Global Adds Chansay Events to Global Alliance, Expands to Napa and Sonoma

Sept. 26, 2024—The DMC Hosts Global has expanded its Global Alliance to include Chansay Events, based in Napa and Sonoma. The new addition specializes in corporate events and incentive group travel experiences in California’s wine country, granting Hosts Global access to a top-tier destination for meeting profs. Kurt Paben, CEO of Hosts Global said of the development, “We are excited to welcome Chansay Events to the Hosts Global Alliance. Napa and Sonoma are premier destinations, and Chansay’s deep local expertise and commitment to excellence perfectly align with our mission of creating legendary moments for our clients. This partnership strengthens our ability to offer extraordinary, tailored experiences in one of the most beautiful and iconic regions in the world.” Napa and Sonoma are highly sought-after locations for events and incentives, with their stunning landscapes and memorable experiences such as vineyard tours, hot air balloon trips and horseback riding. Chansay Events brings mastery of the best the region has to offer; CEO Sarah Carter told the press, “Our passion for this region drives everything we do, and we are committed to providing clients with unforgettable experiences that capture the true spirit of wine country. With Hosts Global’s support, we’re excited to elevate our offerings and deliver even more exceptional events.” Smart Meetings Says: With the addition of both Sena DMC & PCO based in Iceland and now Chansay Events in California’s wine country, Hosts Global’s offerings to meeting profs are expanding to include some of the top destinations in the industry.

Las Vegas Conventions and Visitor Authority Achieves GOLD level Certification for Sustainable Standards

Sept. 25, 2024—The Events Industry Council has announced that Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) has been awarded GOLD level certification to the EIC Sustainable Events Standards. "Achieving GOLD level certification under the EIC Sustainable Event Standards is a significant accomplishment for the LVCC," says Brian Yost, chief operating officer of the LVCVA. "This certification reflects our commitment to sustainability and our proactive approach to minimizing the environmental impact of our operations, while hosting many of the world’s most significant tradeshows and events. " The EIC Sustainable Events Standards focus around areas of organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management, diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact. Smart Meetings says: Congratulations to Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) for achieving this amazing recognition for all the work done to make the meeting industry a better and impactful place.

San Francisco Travel Appoints New President and CEO

Sept. 24, 2024—San Francisco Travel Association has announced the appointment of Anna Marie Presutti as President and CEO. Presutti has served as San Francisco Travel's interim President and CEO since mid-May of this year.  “After an extensive search that spanned the country, the Executive Search Committee realized the best candidate was already in the job. Anna Marie is the ultimate champion of San Francisco and a bold, experienced leader,” says San Francisco Travel Board Chair John Anderson. “As a two-time SF Travel Board Chair, Anna Marie is deeply familiar with the organization, its customers and its culture, and her continued leadership will drive the marketing and awareness of this destination.” Prior to working for San Francisco Travel, Presutti was Vice President and General Manager of Hotel Nikko San Francisco. Presutti is San Francisco Travel's first female CEO. Smart Meeting says:  Anna Marie Presutti is a 2023 Smart Women Award Winner. The Smart Meetings team is over the moon and can't wait to see what Anna Marie cooks up at San Francisco Travel in the future!

The Walter E. Washington Convention Center Awarded LEED Platinum Green Building Certification

Sept. 23, 2024—The Walter E Washington Convention Center has announced that it has been awarded LEED Platinum.  LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which was developed by the U.S> Green Building Council (USGBC) is the most used green building rating system in the world. “Achieving LEED Platinum took a lot of hard work, but we strive to be the greatest Convention Center in the world and have the highest quality of service for our customers,” says Events DC President and CEO Angie M. Gates. “I am thrilled to add our LEED Platinum certification to the city’s roster and make Washington, DC a leader in LEED-certified spaces. I thank the Events DC team for working tirelessly to execute on our commitment to sustainability and excellence.” The LEED award follows The Walter E. Washington Convention Center creating practical and measurable strategies such as sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. Smart Meetings says:  Sustainability and promoting green measures are important to meeting planners as well as their clients. The more venues like The Walter E Washington Convention Center institute green policies the better our events and the world becomes.

Hosts Global Welcomes Sena DMC & PCO, Expanding DMC Services to Iceland

Sept. 19, 2024—The international DMC Hosts Global has added Sena DMC & PCO to its top-tier Hosts Global Alliance. With this partnership, Hosts Global is now able to offer its services in a new, highly in demand destination: Iceland. Based in Reykjavik, Sena DMC & PCO was established over 20 years ago and focuses on unique corporate events, incentive programs and conferences for international clients, with a specialization in luxury travel and gatherings. Sandra Ýr Dungal from Sena DMC & PCO said, “Joining the Hosts Global Alliance is a tremendous opportunity for us to bring Iceland’s magic to a broader audience. Our team is passionate about delivering unforgettable events that go beyond the ordinary, blending Iceland’s natural wonders with cutting-edge event production.” Iceland is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, and has become a top destination for many international travelers. Its robust infrastructure and impressive venues also appeal to meeting profs, and both combine for an excellent option for incentives, conferences, exec meetings and more. “Iceland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for corporate events and incentives, and Sena’s ability to blend Iceland’s natural wonders with innovative event design will undoubtedly help us meet the growing demand for unforgettable experiences in this extraordinary destination,” said Robert Lee, vice president of sales and alliance engagement at Hosts Global. Smart Meetings Says: This new addition to Hosts Global could help cement Iceland as a top meetings and events location.

Mandarin Oriental, New York Receives GSTC Certification

Sept. 16, 2024—Mandarin Oriental, New York, is the first hotel in North America to receive the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification, which demonstrates the hotel's commitment towards sustainability and corporate responsibility. GSTC is an independent non-profit organization and an international global authority that acknowledges businesses that have demonstrated exceptional sustainable business management alongside preservation and maximization of socioeconomic, cultural and environmental impacts. Mandarin Oriental, New York underwent a comprehensive assessment and onsite audit conducted by UCSL United Certification Systems Limited, a GSTC-accredited certification body, to receive the certification, and has achieved it just a week prior to Climate Week NYC. The hotel's sustainable initiatives that led to this recognition include the elimination of single-use plastics, waste reduction and energy efficiency leading to a reduced carbon footprint and social impact initiatives that engage the local community, such as support of City Harvest to provide food for the local homeless population. The hotel also demonstrates a commitment to responsible procurement from certified suppliers that comply with the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group's code of conduct, such as not including menu items that are part of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Endangered Seafood List throughout all food & beverage offerings. The complimentary, fully electric Mercedes Benz EQ450+ house car is a complimentary service that not only maintains excellent guest service but further minimizes the hotel's carbon dioxide emissions. Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has committed to implementing GSTC Criteria across the organization, and a total of 15 Mandarin Oriental hotels have received the GSTC Certification. further information regarding the Group's sustainability efforts can be found in its Sustainability Report. Smart Meetings Says: As sustainability continues to hold the attention of travelers across both the business travel and leisure sectors, certifications such as this identify hotels and meeting venues that are top options for conscientious planners and travelers who want their dollars to support sustainable travel and who seek to reduce their carbon footprints. As the first hotel in North America to receive this certification, Mandarin Oriental, New York is identified as leader in sustainable luxury hospitality and an example of the industry's increasing recognition of traveler's desires for sustainability in their chosen hotels and meeting venues.

Hospitality Today Live to Host First International Hospitality Student’s Day

Sept. 13, 2024—Hospitality Today Live has unveiled the first International Hospitality Student’s Day. Hosted hospitality veteran and creator of Hospitality Today Live’s broadcast show Deborah Gardner and Gecko Hospitality’s Jeremy Nickols, this one-day event will feature conversations hospitality leaders across numerous sectors, including F&B, meetings and events, technology, travel and tourism, hotels and resorts, entertainment and more. The show will be hosted by Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Oct. 4, 2024, at 8:45 a.m.-5:45 p.m. EST on LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube. “This unique event will provide an exceptional platform for the industry to connect with and support our emerging leaders while offering invaluable opportunities for students to engage with today’s industry pioneers,” says Dr. Lorie A. Tuma, associate professor of hospitality and tourism management.

New Orleans is Open for Business Post Hurricane Francine

Sept. 12, 2024—New Orleans & Company has released an update following Hurricane Francine. The Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport (MSY) is open and operational. The airport's terminal facility and runway suffered no significant damage. Normal operations are expected to resume for airlines as well. Passengers are advised to check directly with the airlines regarding flight information. Visit www.flymsy.com/airlines for more information. New Orleans is scheduled to have several events including NOLAxNOLA, Taylor Swift's Era Tour, the National Fried Chicken Festival and so much more! To find the latest updates from New Orleans visit www.neworleans.com/updates. Smart Meetings says: For planners with meetings and events scheduled in New Orleans in the coming weeks this is exciting news! It is also important for planners to know what information is necessary for planners to provide to their attendees who are scheduled to fly into MSY.

Caesars Entertainment Expands Wellness Offerings to Atlantic City Properties

Sept. 11, 2024—After introducing healthy alternatives to meeting planners at Caesars properties in Las Vegas, the company is officially expanding its wellness menu of healthy F&B, speakers and activation options to Caesars Atlantic City, Harrah’s Atlantic City and Tropicana Atlantic City. Recent investments of $400 million in the properties along the boardwalk on the New Jersey Shore included the opening of three stories of Nobu rooms in Caesars Atlantic City, a new arrival experience and rooftop pool. Harrah's Resort and Tropicana Atlantic City are also getting room renovations and new restaurants. “Innovation is at the core of our culture at Caesars Entertainment and creating a wellness initiative was a natural for us because, as company, we are passionate about wellness,” said Kelly Gleeson Smith, vice president of sales with Caesars Entertainment National Meetings & Events. “In seeing the uptick in demand for wellness, we saw an opportunity to expand these offerings especially with all the new upgrades and opportunities in Atlantic City. Now we ensure our clients at all our Atlantic City properties can offer on-trend options to their attendees.” Smart Meetings Says: Look for more wellness options at other Caesars properties and other brands in the coming months as incorporating local, fresh ingredients and moderate stretching helps attendees focus and feel better.

Nth Degree Brings on New Investor

Sept. 11, 2024—Atlanta-based Nth Degree, which operates out of 30 satellite offices across North America, Europe and Asia and serves clients at over 13,000 event and trade show projects annually, announced a strategic investment from Shamrock Capital, the LA-based investment firm specializing in media, entertainment and communications. The partnership, which is expected to strengthen Nth Degree’s presence in the rapidly growing live event sector, will seek to establish an unparalleled platform for the development of new business opportunities across the broader industry. Nth Degree will continue to operate under its current leadership team and structures, including Nth Degree Events; the event strategies and expert operational support group and Fern Exposition Services; the holistic and integrated event services group. Smart Meetings Says: As events continue to be a more important part of the marketing mix, look for more investments in trade show and exhibit companies.

PCMA Convening Leaders Features Liz Cheney and Kishore Mahbubani

Sept. 10, 2024—PCMA and CEMA president and CEO, Sherrif Karamat have announced the two main stage keynote speakers for Convening Leaders 2025 (CL25). “Our universal environment is complex and constantly evolving; therefore, understanding global dynamics and principled leadership is essential for success,” said Karamat. “The global business events industry must not only keep pace, but we must also drive transformation. The insights presented by Kishore and Liz will challenge us to think beyond the ordinary and encourage us to look at challenges as opportunities as we continue to expand our reach and influence.” Mahbubani, former present of the United Nations Security Council, will kick Monday, January 13th on the mainstage. Mahbubani will focus on shifting global power dynamics. Cheney, former United States congresswoman, will start on Tuesday, January 14th will discuss the pole of principled leadership. Smart Meetings says: In an ever-changing world, CL25’s focus on encouraging global business events and going beyond boundaries is a necessary and essential asset for planners. The stellar lineup of speakers gives the industry the ability to explore, engage and evolve.

Cvent Acquires Splash

Sept. 5 2024—The event marketing tech company Splash has been acquired by the event software company Cvent in the latter’s latest move to expand its field marketing product suite. Splash provides users with tools to manage measurable, repeatable event programs. Over 60 Fortune 1,000 companies currently employ their services. The acquisition will expand buyer reach, streamline more planning elements, generate brand awareness and provide more metrics in order to measure event outcomes. "We admire Cvent’s long-time innovation and leadership in the meetings and events space especially as we see growing recognition of the importance of events among marketers and CMOs,” said Matthew Curry, Interim CEO of Splash. “For over a decade we have empowered marketers to create valuable, repeatable events through our powerful, intuitive tools. With Cvent, we look forward to accelerating event marketing success, making it more accessible, measurable, and impactful for businesses worldwide." Smart Meetings Says: Since Cvent was purchased by Blackstone in 2023, they have made some careful acquisitions. We expect more to come.

Thousands of Hotel Workers Walk Out in Labor Day Strike

Update Sept. 3—The number of hotels has now increased to 25 in nine cities with each city's strike planned to last one to three days. You can see in real time what hotels, where are striking at a UNITE HERE Link that will be updated with changes. Sept. 1, 2024—Hotel workers at 24 hotels in eight cities—Boston; Greenwich, Connecticut, Honolulu, Kauai, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose and Seattle at Hilton, Hyatt and Marriott branded properties—went on strike Sunday and other cities could follow, according to the union UNITE Here. specifically, strikes have been authorized in Baltimore; New Haven, Connecticut; Oakland, California and Providence, Rhode Island. The union is calling for higher wages, fair staffing and workloads and the reversal of Covid-era service cuts. They say their wages aren’t enough to cover the cost of living and many have to work two jobs to make ends meet. The union says that many hotels took advantage of the pandemic to cut staffing and guest services that were never restored, causing workers to lose jobs and income—and creating painful working conditions. The union pointed to record high room rates and $100 billion in operating profits in 2022, but a 13% decline in hotel staffing per occupied room from 2019 to 2022 in the form of understaffing, ending automatic daily housekeeping and removing food and beverage options.

Michael D’Angelo, a Hyatt spokesman, said in a statement to The Washington Post that the company “has a long history of cooperation with the unions that represent our employees” and is “disappointed that UNITE HERE has chosen to strike while Hyatt remains willing to negotiate.” The hotels have plans in place to “minimize impact on hotel operations” related to the strikes, D’Angelo said.

Hilton told The Washington Post that it “makes every effort to maintain a cooperative and productive relationship” with the union, adding that the chain is “committed to negotiating in good faith to reach fair and reasonable agreements.”

The union urges guests not to eat, sleep, or meet at any hotel that is on strike during the busy holiday weekend or where workers have been on strike until they secure a new contract. Hotels may suspend services while trying to operate with skeleton staffing, and picket lines will run outside struck hotels for up to 24 hours a day. Guests are encouraged to consult the union’s travel guide and use its Labor Dispute Map, where they can search hotels by name or city to learn whether a hotel is on strike and find alternatives. Smart Meetings Says: Check in with your hotels for upcoming programs to determine the service situation. More tips for managing venue union actions here.

David DuBois Appointed to Director Role at Matchpoint

Aug. 29, 2024—David DuBois, a visionary leader in the MICE industry, has taken a new role with Matchpoint, where he will serve as the director of strategic development. DuBois spent 11 years as the president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE), and most recently served as president and CEO of Exhibitor Group. Matchpoint has made significant strides in the evolving industry as an AI-powered professional networking event. As director of strategic development, DuBois brings extensive industry connections alongside significant expertise. "The innovative approach that MatchPoint brings to professional networking aligns with my passion for connecting people and advancing the events industry," DuBois says. "I look forward to contributing to the continued success of MatchPoint and building strategic partnerships that will drive monumental growth. Additionally, having had the pleasure of co-founding the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (the exhibition and conferences advocacy and public policy entity) I have a similar passion for the launch of MatchPoint as we enhance the networking experiences for professionals worldwide." Matchpoint co-founder Bill McGlade says, "David’s unparalleled experience and strategic insights are exactly what MatchPoint needs as we continue to innovate and lead in the AI-powered networking space. His contributions will be invaluable as we work towards our vision of revolutionizing professional connections."

Legends Completes Acquisition of ASM Global

Aug. 27, 2024—The merger of two major live event service providers Legends and ASM Global was official last week. The combined company emphasized their "data-driven, customizable solution across all areas of venue operations and revenue generation focused on delivering exceptional fan and guest experiences in the sports, entertainment, attractions, conventions and leisure industries." The company offers venue planning and management, content and event booking, merchandise and hospitality services.  Smart Meetings Says: As sports stadiums have developed more sophisticated meeting spaces and catering options, sourcing arenas for events has become a big business.

Kentucky Exposition Center Breaks Ground on Expansion

Aug. 27, 2024—Kentucky Venues (kyvenues.com) unveiled the visual concepts for Kentucky Exposition Center’s Phase I & II renovations last week. The group broke ground to celebrate the multimillion dollar renovation plans for the facility, located in Louisville. Phase I is projected to cost $180 million and will include a newinterconnected350,000totalsquare feet multi-purpose building with the capabilities to host events ranging from livestock competitions and equine events to trade shows and sporting events. In the $213 million Phase II, Kentucky Exposition Center will redevelop the West Wing, West Hall and Pavilion into a singular, connected 249,000sq. ft. multi-purpose building. Construction will begin in 2025. Smart Meetings Says: Look for an additional $76 million in enhancements, including wayfinding and payment technology, that will make the spaces even more meeting-friendly in the future.

ATL Airport District Passes Torch to New President

Aug. 27, 2024—At a Going for the Gold-themed annual meeting, ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau President Cookie Smoak literally passed a symbolic torch to Executive Director Mercedes Miller, who will take the President role Sept. 1 when Smoak retires. ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), the destination marketing organization for the cities of College Park, Hapeville and Union City, announced at the meeting that the CVB’s sales team fulfilled more than 1,000 leads during the 2023-24 fiscal year, which resulted in more than 69,000 room nights booked. In total, the CVB’s efforts produced an estimated economic impact of $81,447,319. Renee Montgomery, a two-time WNBA Champion and vice president and co-owner of the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream, whose homecourt is the District’s own Gateway Center Arena, delivered an impactful and inspirational keynote, encouraging attendees to strive for excellence in their lives. During her remarks, Montgomery said, “once your goal is established, you must believe without a shadow of a doubt you can get there. I believed each time I put up a shot that it was going in. If I missed, I was shocked! That determination and belief in yourself will propel you to your gold standard.” Smart Meetings Says: As a flurry of changes occur at the top ranks of CVBs across the country, maintaining relationships will help preserve access to resources and information.

Echo Experiential Result of New Exhibit Service Partnership

Aug. 27, 2024—Echo Media Group and Skyline Displays of Orange County announced today the formation of Echo Experiential, an alliance dedicated to serving the event and exhibit needs of companies across all industries. This new offering combines award-winning marketing communications expertise coupled with the ability to plan, design, build exhibits, and manage the logistics for events and trade shows for a one-stop event planning shop. Skyline Displays have been in the business for more than 40 years building custom exhibits and Echo Experiential markets itself as storytellers. Smart Meetings Says: Expectations for trade show floors have changed with attendees expecting experiences rather than swag and sales pitches. That could impact the landscape of resources available to provide that higher level of immersion.

Visit Dallas Highlights Maverick Spirit

Aug. 26, 2024—After nearly two years of comprehensive research and stakeholder engagement, Visit Dallas has launched a new destination branding campaign is centered around the "Maverick, Can-Do" spirit that makes Dallas unique; a confident energy generated by its people—a diverse, welcoming intermingling of personalities, perspectives and passions. New ads showcase culinary, entertainment, arts, meeting and LGBTQ+ travel—doing things the Dallas way "Cause we can," as the ad copy reads. Smart Meetings Says: It is refreshing to see a destination embrace all audiences by highlighting local values.

EIC Launches Survey for Futures Landscape Study

Aug. 22, 2024—The Events Industry Council (EIC) today released a survey for its Futures Landscape Study. It is one aspect of a year-long project to examine the emerging issues that play the biggest role in the evolution of the business events industry. Developed in partnership with the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) Foundation, the survey covers a diverse range of topics, including political and geopolitical issues, economic trends, technology, safety and security and environmental impact. Results will be used to shape the content and themes of the EIC Futures Landscape Report, which will be released in late 2024. Additionally, once the survey closes, EIC leaders, GainingEdge and other stakeholders will present an analysis of the data at the upcoming EIC Council Meeting and Think Tank in September, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. All representatives in the global business events sector are encouraged to take the survey. In addition, EIC will send the survey to 1,300 Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs) and is encouraging each of its association and corporate members to share the survey with their respective memberships. The survey will remain open for approximately two weeks. Take the survey here. Smart Meetings Says: As the meetings industry changes post-Covid, understanding the pressures meeting professionals face daily is even more important. Smart Meetings says: The global business events industry continues to evolve—seemingly faster than ever, with the increasing development of technology like AI and our ever more connected world. Identifying the trends that business event professionals around the world are finding most impactful in their work is essential for all members and partners of the industry to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the present-day industry landscape and be better prepared for the future, based on an ability to draw more accurate predictions for the industry's future development.

Hyatt Hotels to Purchase Standard International

August 20, 2024—Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced its plan to acquire lifestyle company Standard International, parent company of The Standard, Bunkhouse Hotels and Peri Hotels. The purchase is set to close later this year. Hyatt’s acquired portfolio will grant it 21 open hotel with roughly 2,000 room, including The Standard hotels in London, New York City and Bangkok, as well as Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin, Texas. “We waited a long time to find the right company with whom to join forces,” said Amar Lalvani, Standard International's executive chairman. “In choosing Hyatt, we tap into a powerful global infrastructure and loyal guest base. I am very proud that our team has delivered on the potential we saw with The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels and am honored that Hyatt appreciates how special our brands, properties, and—most importantly—our people are. We have a shared vision for the enormous potential that still lies ahead. I would be remiss not to express my gratitude to Hyatt for taking this bold step forward and to Sansiri [PLC, real estate developer] who has been instrumental in supporting our efforts.” In addition to its three established hotel brands, Standard International also has two new additions, The StandardX, which launched this month in Melbourne, and The Manner, which launches next month in New York. More than 30 projects with a signed agreement or letter of intent remain in Standard International’s pipeline. Smart Meetings says: With more hotels under the Hyatt's World of Hyatt loyalty program, event profs and attendees will have more opportunities to take advantage of the it.

Destinations International Report: Progress and Opportunity for Inclusion

August 20, 2024—In its third iteration since 2020, key findings of The Social Inclusion Study on Destination Organizations conducted by Destinations International included: • 73% of destination organization and industry partner employees want to see more diversity in their organizations. • Only 36% of destination and 41% of industry partner employees believe there is sufficient accountability in place if diversity, equity and inclusion goals are not met. • Collectively, diverse leaders occupy 30% or fewer roles in destination and industry organizations. • While 72% of destinations have inclusion strategies, 28% do not have formal oversight for these initiatives. Around 450 destination organizations and 120 industry partners participated in the study. In a statement, Destinations International said the findings “highlight the need for accountability through alignment, ownership and clear goal setting. These goals should consider the perspectives and needs of underrepresented populations and be incorporated into initiatives and measurable programs.”

Walt Disney World Announces Expansion and Future Attractions

Aug. 12, 2024—On Aug. 10 during the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event hosted in Anaheim, California, it was announced that the Magic Kingdom would be undergoing an expansion, the largest in its history. The expansion will begin with FrontierLand that will include a brand-new story inspired by Pixar Animation Studio "Cars". “We are thrilled to create this original Cars adventure and put our guests in the driver’s seat as we—quite literally—explore a new frontier in Frontierland,” shared Michael Hundgen, Walt Disney World Portfolio Executive Producer at Walt Disney Imagineering. “Part of pioneering this new story includes tapping into the themes of exploration and adventure that inspire so many of us to keep propelling forward. Anytime we touch Magic Kingdom, we recognize the massive responsibility that exists to get it right and tell stories that connect with our guests.” Smart Meetings Says: The unique spaces in theme parks make for memorable backdrops for evening receptions after park hours and new attractions create excitement with attendees. Stay tuned for more details as construction begins.

HostsGlobal Welcomes Condor Travel as its Newest Member

Aug. 1, 2024—International destination management company (DMC) HostsGlobal welcomes leading South American DMC Condor Travel as its newest member. Condor Travel has operations in six countries, including Brazil and Peru. With the addition of Condor Travel, HostsGlobal now expands its reach into South America, and globally, six continents. Condor Travel has spent the last two decades establishing its deep-rooted passion for South America and has provided leading event management services that highlight the dynamic region's unique landscapes, flavors and cultures. With this new member, HostsGlobal can now offer its clients more destination options and services, and Condor Travel gains the ability to expand its client reach. Jascivan Carvalho, Condor Travel's inbound business director, says, "Joining Hosts Global is a significant milestone for us. We are thrilled to be part of an esteemed global alliance that shares our commitment to excellence. We look forward to collaborating with Hosts Global to offer unparalleled experiences and exceptional service in Brazil and Peru." Smart Meetings says: South America has continually seen increasing demand from the MICE industry. In a post-pandemic age when engaging travel is top of mind, and planners know that their attendees seek authentic experiences in exciting destinations, DMO partnerships are critical. This partnership expands the reach of both Hosts Global and Condor Travel, and will offer planners increased options as they seek to meet their own clients' needs and wishes.

ASM Global Signs Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge

July 31, 2024—ASM Global, the world leader in venue development and management has signed The Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE). The pledge reaffirms ASM Global's commitment to environmental sustainably and climate change awareness. “We believe in the importance of sustainability as a key driver of our future. With this in mind, we have pledged to take action and lead our industry to accelerate our engagement in the NZCE pledge,” said Dan Hoffend, SVP Convention Centers, ASM Global. Smart Meetings says:  By signing the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative, ASM Global has set itself as a major player and role model in environmental and sustainability awareness within the meetings industry. With over 400 venues across the world, ASM Global has the ability to set a precedent for the future of the industry as a whole.

Hotel Strikes Loom in 4 U.S. Cities

July 29, 2024—In the face of potential strikes at hotels in Boston, Honolulu, Providence and San Francisco, Unite Here, the union representing hotel workers, has advised meeting professionals to have protective language in all hotel contracts to allow cancellation in the event of labor disputes. The union said strikes are possible as early as this summer as some 13,500 hotel workers vote whether to authorize strikes in those destinations at properties flagged by several major brands, including Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and Omni. The voting begins Aug. 6. If strikes are approved, picket lines and other actions can be called after contract expirations at the affected properties. Contracts in some cities have already expired, while others expire in the coming weeks. “These labor disputes carry the risk of significant disruptions to meetings and events planned in these cities,” said a Unite Here press release.   “During the COVID years, hotel executives enacted widespread cuts to staffing, services, and guest amenities nationwide. These cuts are taking center stage in upcoming potential labor disruptions, as union members demand that hotels ‘respect our work’ by reversing them,” the union stated.   The union is also seeking increased wages for hotel workers.  “Momentum is building for strikes this year because workers are at a breaking point while the hotel industry is making record profits,” said Unite Here International President Gwen Mills. “Meanwhile, wages aren’t enough to cover the cost of living, and many workers have two or even three jobs.” Last year, Unite Here members won record contracts after rolling strikes at Los Angeles and Orange County hotels. Smart Meetings says: If your group has an official position of not crossing labor picket lines, or if a labor action would significantly impact attendance of group members, keynoters or panelists, and if time allows, consider shifting your event to a hotel that has already agreed to a new labor contract for its workers—or to a different city. DMOs and tourism boards in the destination can often help in locating a new venue. Learn more here and here.

Biden-Harris Administration to Grant More Than $374 Million to Improve Airports

July 26, 2024—U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration recently announced more than $374 million will be used to improve airfield, safety and other projects at 299 airports in 46 states and American Samoa. This is a third round of grants from the Airport Improvement Program, which will fund projects like the construction of new and improved airports, runway and taxiway repairs, airfield lighting and signage maintenance, and the purchase of equipment to operate and maintain airports. Airports set to receive funding include Miami International Airport (MIA) in Florida, Denver International Airport (DEN) in Colorado and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) in Alabama. Smart Meetings says: Improved airport infrastructure can ensure meeting professionals and their attendees make it safely and on time to and from the event. Less hiccups mean meeting profs can focus on the attendee experience and other important matters during the event.

Pechanga Resort Casino Becomes Founding Partner of Intuit Dome

July 26, 2024–Pechanga Resort Casino has expanded its partnership with the Los Angeles Clippers to becomes its exclusive tribal casino and a founding partner of Intuit Dome, set to open Aug. 15. The two organizations plan to host community events each year. When the partnership began in June, the Pechanga and the Clippers donated laptops and supplies to Ortega High School in Lake Elsinore, California, to help students apply for colleges, jobs and financial aid. “We are excited to partner and support the Clippers as they open their new home, Intuit Dome,” said Ken Perez, president of Pechanga Development Corporation. “This partnership expands the Pechanga brand and presence in Southern California sports and entertainment while making our communities better and stronger.” Smart Meetings says: Intuit Dome is part of a new generation of arenas that offer more than sports and concert venues. Anchored in their communities, they are memorable places for small and large gatherings and feature some of the most advanced AV available. Learn more about event rental here.

Southwest Airline Announces Changes to Seating Policy

July 24, 2024—Southwest Airline recently announced a change to their seating policy. Southwest will now be assigning seats to travelers, who will also be able to purchase premium seating options for all available flights. "Moving to assigned seating and offering premium legroom options will be a transformational change that cuts across almost all aspects of the Company," says Bob Jordan, President, CEO, & Vice Chairman of the Board. "Although our unique open seating model has been a part of Southwest Airlines since our inception, our thoughtful and extensive research makes it clear this is the right choice—at the right time—for our Customers, our People, and our Shareholders. We are excited to incorporate Customer and Employee feedback to design a unique experience that only Southwest can deliver. We have been building purposefully to this change as part of a comprehensive upgrade to the Southwest experience as we focus on Customer expectations – and it will unlock new sources of revenue consistent with our laser focus on delivering improved financial performance." Smart Meetings says:  For planners and attendees who appreciate Southwest's service but aren't a fan of looking for a free space when boarding in the last group of their flight, the news alleviates one less stressful factor on route to your next event.

Miami Beach Convention Center Becomes Certified Autism Center

July 24, 2024—The Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) has been named a Certified Autism Center (CAC). This follows the Greater Miami Convention Center that achieved its certification in April. “Achieving the Certified Autism Center™ designation marks a pivotal next step in our commitment to inclusivity, and I am extremely proud of our staff’s dedication and achievement. This autism certification enables the Miami Beach Convention Center, owned by the City of Miami Beach and proudly managed by Oak View Group, to better serve visitors with special needs, setting a new standard for accessibility in the events industry,” says MBCC General Manager Freddie Peterson. Smart Meetings says: By being named a CAC, MBCC has proven it can accommodate the needs of differently-abled guests. It takes work for venues to achieve this title: at least 80% of guest-facing staff must complete IBBCES's training and pass an exam on serving guests with autism and other sensory disorders. The facility undergoes an onsite review by IBCCES professionals and must commit to continued training. By choosing a CAC to host an event, planners demonstrate they are aware of the needs of all participants and attendees, which goes way into making them feel seen and appreciated among the thousands of people invited to the event. and can expand their own client satisfaction and loyalty. For more on creating inclusive events, read Smart Meetings' article Neuroinclusion: Events for Everyone.

Jamaica Rebounds After Beryl

July 24, 2024—Despite the recent challenges posed by Hurricane Beryl, Jamaica’s tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience, welcoming over 105,000 stopover visitors since reopening its ports. Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett shared this statistic during his closing presentation of the 2024/2025 Sectoral Debate in Parliament to underscore the industry’s strength and contribution to the Jamaican economy. “On July 2^nd and 3^rd, we had no visitors arriving in Jamaica,” said Minister Bartlett. “However, on the Fourth of July, we started receiving visitors again and in just 11 days, we have brought in 105,000 stopover visitors. This is what resilience looks like.” He noted that the rapid rebound is a testament to Jamaica’s well-honed disaster preparedness plans and the unwavering spirit of its tourism stakeholders. The Minister further explained that the arrival numbers received a significant bump thanks to patrons visiting for Reggae Sumfest 2024, currently underway in Montego Bay. Smart Meetings says: NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year due to warmer than average ocean temperature, a major driver of tropical activity. Check in with NOAA and local authorities frequently in advance of your program and understand that effects can be highly localized with many areas escaping damage while others nearby are hit much harder and plan accordingly. 

Destinations International Announces Location for Next Year's Annual Convention

July 18, 2024—On the tail end of the Destinations International (DI) 2024 Annual Convention, the organization has announced that next year, the convention will take place in Chicago. This year's convention took place in Tampa, Fla. This year saw record-breaking attendance with nearly 1,900 attendees and 34 countries and territories around the world. Don Welsh, CEO of DI, said, "We’re deeply grateful to Visit Tampa Bay president & CEO Santiago Corrada and his outstanding team for their warm hospitality, partnership and hard work to make this year’s convention an unforgettable experience. "We’re excited to be heading to Chicago next year for our 2025 Annual Convention and look forward to working with Rich Gamble, interim CEO at Choose Chicago and his entire team to plan another must-attend conference for our members. Chicago holds a special place in my heart as my family and I called it home for five years when I served as the CEO of Choose Chicago." 

Destinations International Announces 68 CDME Recipients

July 17, 2024—Destinations International has announced the 68 industry leaders that have earned the Certified Destination Executive (CDME) designation in 2024. The news was announced during the Annual Convention in Tampa, Florida this week. “Congratulations to the new CDME credential recipients, representing the pinnacle of individual accomplishment in the tourism sector,” says Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “These distinguished leaders have enhanced their professional expertise, preparing themselves to navigate the evolving challenges and competitive dynamics within our industry.” The CDME certification program is designed specifically for destination management professionals and is the industry's highest individual educational achievement. The program prepares destination professionals to use their experience and knowledge to focus on the key concepts of vision, leadership, productivity, and business strategies.

Workers at Hyatt Regency Crystal City File for Union Election

July 15, 2024—Housekeepers at the Hyatt Regency Crystal City have filed for a union election after only 70% signed union authorization cards. The workers are organizing with UNITE HERE Local 25 that works with 6,500 hospitality workers in Maryland, D.C., and Virginia. The hospitality workers are seeking higher pay, benefits, fair workloads and respect. “I am responsible for cleaning spaces over 14 floors of the hotel during a single shift,” says Aymane Mokrane, a Houseperson at the hotel. “One day recently I was so tired I slept on the floor after getting home, I couldn’t even make it to my bed. We need the same union protections as workers at the Hyatt Regency in Washington have.” Local 25 has filed an Unfair Labor Practice charged against Hyatt, as well as its subcontractor J&B Cleaning. “A supermajority of housekeepers at the Hyatt Crystal City have spoken loud and clear, and they want a union,” says Paul Schwalb, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of UNITE HERE Local 25. “Their work is exhausting and even painful. They deserve the standards, rights, respect, wages and benefits that union hotel workers in D.C.’s Hyatts have won.”

EIC Opens CMP Needs Assessment Survey

July 11, 2024—The 2024 CMP Needs Assessment Survey is now live. The 10-minute survey gathers information from CMPs on the challenges and opportunities they see in the industry and assesses how the CMP designation has served them. EIC will use the results to shape the CMP experience for CMPs around the world. Take the survey here.

AHLA Releases Statement on Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act

July 11, 2024—American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey released a comment on the introduction of the Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act. The act would require the Department of Homeland SEcurity (DHS) to create a certification program that would allow for businesses to train their employees to recognizes and react to a possible human trafficking situation. “The Human Trafficking Awareness Training Recognition Act would complement our industry’s anti-trafficking efforts by providing important third-party validation for hotels’ training and prevention initiatives,” says AHLA Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey. “We are grateful to Reps. Valadao and Carter for introducing this important bill and look forward to helping them pass it into law.” The act was introduced by Reps. David Valadaos, R-Calif., and Troy Carter, D-La. The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) is the largest hotel association in America. AHLA represents more than 30,000 members throughout the hospitality industry.

Didier Scaillet, Former SITE CEO, Dies

July 10, 2024—Didier Scaillet, CIS, CITP, a longtime events industry executive and former CEO of Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), died July 9 after a hospital stay in his native Belgium. He was 54 years old. “All at SITE are shocked and saddened,” said a statement posted on SITE’s website. “Our hearts go out to his wife, Sabine, and his children, Martin, Morgane and Giles." The organization said a book of condolences can be accessed at hulsmans-goossens.be. Scaillet began his career at one of the first association management companies in Europe, quickly rose to be a business partner, noted a bio compiled by SITE Canada. It continued: “He held various roles with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) as director of European operations, vice-president of global development and chief development officer for MPI and the MPI Foundation.”  He also served as director of the Events Industry Council and first vice-chair of the Incentive Federation. In addition, Scaillet was vice president for business development for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), where he spearheaded the “global redesign and integration of the organization’s executive partnership program and expansion of revenue in new categories and markets.” He was also instrumental in the development of the Meetings & Business Events Competency Standards, the backbone for SITE’s competency-based education model for incentive professionals. Most recently, he was senior director of corporate fundraising at the Internet Society Foundation. You can listen to Smart Meetings TV host Mike Lyons' interview with him on the podcast Lessons from Leaders here.

Allegretto Vineyard Resort Awards Employees Scholarships

July 9, 2024—The Allegretto Vineyard Resort has announced that it will be awarding 15 local employees and family members scholarships through the 2024 Ayres Cares Scholarship Fund. “Knowing that the Ayres Group recognizes the same excellence in our employees that we witness daily means so much to us,” says Rich Verruni, general manager of the Allegretto. “Our team is filled with potential, and it’s an honor to see so many of them recognized by these scholarships.” Scholarship winners are in various educational programs including college, community college, trade schools and vocational training.

Hurricane Beryl Updates Across the Caribbean and Texas

July 8, 2024—After Hurricane Beryl crossed the Caribbean late last week, Meetings Incentive Experts (MIE), Hyatt Inclusive Collection and Visit Jamaica have shared positive updates. As of July 1, the storm was classified as a Category Four, which the National Hurricane Center (NHC) called "an extremely dangerous and life threatening situation." Hurricane Beryl is currently moving through Texas as a Category One storm. Hurricane Beryl moved past Jamaica on July 3rd. Thanks to strong preparation, hotels and resorts in the area, and their guests and staff, remained safe. Jamaica's general tourism infrastructure maintained no wide-scale impact, according to the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica's Minister of Tourism. "Jamaica is open for business and, once again, the resilience of the Jamaican people is on full display," he says. Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) in Kingston, The Ian Fleming International Airport (IFIA) in Ocho Rios and Jamaica's cruise ports in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Falmouth are all currently open. In a press release, Hyatt also shared a list of its many Inclusive Collection Resorts throughout the Mexican Caribbean that faced no property damage and remain fully operational. Cancun International Airport (CUN) and Cozumel International Airport (COZ) are open and operational. Hurricane Beryl was downgraded to a Category Two storm upon making landfall near Tulum early Friday, July 5. At that time, maximum sustained winds reached 70 miles per hour. The area faced no major damage, according to MIE Cancun Operations Manager Fernanda Franco, in a press release, who said, "The MIE Office utilized our Hurricane Management Procedures and everyone is safe." The storm weakened to a tropical storm after moving beyond Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, but regained strength as it crossed over the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors to locations throughout the Caribbean are still advised to look to their travel providers and airlines for updates prior to their arrival. Early July 8, the storm made landfall on the Gulf Coast of Texas, about 85 miles south-southwest of Houston, with maximum sustained winds up to 80 miles per hour. The storm currently moves through Houston. At this time, reported deaths include at least 11 people in Jamaica, Venezuela, Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines and three in Texas's Harris County, which includes Houston. View live updates to the storm on NHC's website.

U.S.-Mexico Join WTTC Council to Promote Sustainable Travel

July 5, 2024—The World Travel & Tourism Council and the U.S.-Mexico Foundation entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation in fostering sustainable growth in North America's tourism sector, an industry valued at $3 trillion.  By leveraging the expertise and resources of both organizations with the help of public-private sector agencies, the alliance could influence policy and open opportunities for innovation. "Tourism and people connectivity are clear examples of what can be achieved," said Enrique Perret, US.-Mexico Foundation managing director." This agreement...will help bring out the potential of the region as an economic and tourism powerhouse."

It’s Official: Tulsa is the Capital of Route 66

July 3, 2024—If anything is almost as red, white and blue as the Fourth of July, it’s storied Route 66. And now the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, owns the copyright to call itself “Capital of Route 66.” The fabled “Mother Road” was born in 1926. Today, the highway where you can get your kicks still stretches 2,278 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. And even though the interstates have stolen much of its status, it attracts millions of nostalgic road warriors each year. Tulsa boasts 28 miles of Route 66 within its city limits, bookended by Gateway Arches on the east and west. Travelers pass by dozens of neon signs and other landmarks that harken back to the days when it was the main thoroughfare through much of the country. Motoring past Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios, for example, they will surely notice 21-foot-tall Buck Atom Muffler Man and his new companion, Stella Atom Space Cowgirl. “Route 66 is an integral part of Tulsa’s identity and we’ve long been known as the Capital of Route 66. To have this official designation is an exciting day for Tulsa, our region, and the state of Oklahoma,” proclaimed Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum.

L.A. City Council Moves Forward L.A. Convention Center Expansion Plans

July 3, 2024—The Los Angeles City Council has voted to move forward the LA Convention Center (LACC) Expansion and Modernization Project. The design-build delivery model will connect the two existing South and West Exhibit Halls with one contiguous hall, adding 190,000 sq. ft. of space. It will also add 55,000 sq. ft. of new meeting room space and 95,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose space, as well as redesign Gilbert Lindsay Plaza, expanding public open space and spearheading an exciting outdoor venue. In the upcoming months, the City will work with architects AEG, Plenary and Populous and general contractors PCL and Webcor to finalize design plans, schedule and costs. Construction will begin in spring 2025 and is slated to be completed before the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games take place in LA. Chief Tourism Officer and Executive Director of the City Tourism Department Doane Liu says, "Despite being the second largest city in the United States, the LACC is currently a second tier facility and we are losing out on business to other cities due to the constraints of the Convention Center." Calling the public infrastructure project "essential for LA's future," Liu says, "With this expansion, LACC will become a premier destination that is able to pursue larger events that bring visitors to LA who spend money at our local hotels, restaurants and attractions, adding additional revenue to the City's General Fund." The LACC currently hosts nearly 200 events and two million visitors each year. Local businesses, especially downtown, rely on direct and indirect spending from the LACC. The expansion project is anticipated to draw over $165 million in visitor spending annually, and will create 7,445 new jobs during construction and 2,147 jobs on an ongoing basis. "We're excited that an upgraded facility will allow us to expand our event base with more top-tier programs and allow our current clients continued growth opportunities, says LACC General Manager Kimberly Weedmark. "An expanded and modernized Center will provide our customers with innovative technology and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. We look forward to delivering excellent service and exceeding clients' and guests' expectations at every event."

ETHOS Event Collective Announces Passion Project initiative

July 1, 2024—Ethos Event Collective has announced the launch of the Passion Project initiative that's goal is to connect clients with charitable organizations within the community they inhabit. As part of the project, Ethos will also be giving back 1% of program profits to those charities. "At Ethos, we believe that destination management is not just about coordinating events; it's about creating meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact," says Joe Fijol, Founder and Principal of Ethos Event Collective. "Purposeful Planning™ is at the heart of everything we do, driving our commitment to excellence and social responsibility."    Founded in 2021, the goal of Ethos Event Collective is to create memorable experiences that reflect their client's aspirations.

Category 4 Storm to Hit Caribbean

July 1, 2024—Hurricane Beryl, currently a Category Four storm, is moving across the Caribbean Sea towards Mexico's eastern coast. At this time, the eyewall of the storm is moving through the southern Windward Islands, including Grenada, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Tobago. A hurricane watch is in place for Jamaica; Martinique, Trinidad and St. Lucia have established a tropical storm warning; and portions of the Dominican Republic and Haiti have established a tropical storm watch. The storm has been called "an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation" by the National Hurricane Center (NHC). Destructive winds, heavy rainfall and flash flooding are expected in the southern Windward Islands region late Monday morning through the afternoon. AccuWeather reports that as of this morning, the storm has sustained winds of 140 mph and that this intensity is expected to continue throughout the day. No confirmed reports to meetings hotels or convention venues are reported at this time.

Disney Cruise Line Sailing from Singapore in 2025

June 27, 2024—Starting in 2025, Disney Cruise Line will be offering vacation packages to Singapore. This will be the first Disney Cruise Line to homeport in Asia. The adventure will include three and four-night voyages offering a magical experience at sea and an immersive experience for all. “We’re bringing the magic of Disney Cruise Line to Asia for the first time ever, and we want to give our guests the cruise relaxation and Disney fun they can only experience aboard one of our ships,” says Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “When they set sail on the Disney Adventure, guests will find incredible, immersive areas that bring the worlds of Disney, Pixar and Marvel to life in ways like never before – and these uniquely Disney experiences will inspire families to reconnect, recharge and make unforgettable memories that they’ll cherish forever.”

Choose New Jersey to Open New Jersey West Coast Center in Bay Area

June 27, 2024—Choose New Jersey has announced they will be opening a New Jersey West Coast Center in Sunnyvale, California. This new venue will focus on helping companies headquartered in the West Coast that focus on artificial intelligence, technology, and film industries to expand beyond towards the East Coast. “Building upon our successful model of opening New Jersey Centers in key international markets, Choose New Jersey is thrilled to announce the opening of our first domestic center outside of New Jersey,” says Wesley Mathews, President & CEO of Choose New Jersey. “New Jersey is the perfect East Coast complement to the Bay Area’s large and well-funded innovation ecosystem.” The Center is scheduled to officially open on July 15, 2024.

ASAE Announces 2024 Exceptional Leadership Honorees

June 24, 2024—Today, ASAE announced the recipients of the Individual Honors for Exceptional Leadership. This award honors professionals who have demonstrated exemplary support of ASAE, the association community and society at large. These awards will be presented during the 2024 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition Aug. 10-13, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. The 2024 honorees are:

• Key Award: Gabriel Ekert FASAE, CAE, CEO at Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Georgia and BOMA Georgia Foundation.
• Professional Performance Award: Stefanie Reeves, FASAE, CAE, deputy chief of pubic policy and engagement at American Psychological Association
• Academy of Leaders Award: Dr. Lowell M. Aplebaum, EdD, FASAE, CAE, CPF, CEO at Vista Cova

Each award honors leaders with different achievements. The Key Award recognizes chief staff executives who demonstrate exceptional leadership and commitment to voluntary membership organizations; the Professional Performance Award recognizes association executives at the top level in their organizations but not in the role of CEO of who have made important contributions; and the Academy of Leaders Award honors consultants or industry partners who have demonstrated outstanding support for ASAE and the association community.

Destinations International Announces Recipients of HBCU Scholarships

June 24, 2024—Destinations International (DI) today announces nine recipients of the Destinations International Foundation Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCU) and Hospitality scholarship. To date, the foundation has raised over $225,000 USD from individual and organization donors to support this program. Each student will receive $8,000 USD for the 2024-2025 academic year. DI and industry partners, through the DI Foundation, created the program to support underrepresented and ethnically diverse students seeking degrees in hospitality or tourism management and to provide those students with support and guidance throughout their academic journeys through pairing them with local mentors and participation in ongoing learning programs with DI members throughout the academic year. "The goal of the scholarship is to provide historically underrepresented students interested in the hospitality industry with an avenue to connect and learn about the many career paths that exist, as well as lessening the financial burden on the emerging your professionals, says DI President and CEO Don Welsh. The 2024-2025 HBCU Scholarship recipients include:

• Cassandre Bossicot, Bethune-Cookman University 
• Celine Trombi, Delaware State University 
• Christian Nettles, North Carolina Central University  
• Hannah Weiss, Delaware State University 
• Justin Simon, Morgan State University 
• Kajal Ghising, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore 
• Kaniyah Williams Bailey, Delaware State University 
• Ly Bao Tran Phan, University of Maryland, Eastern Shore 
• Mya Mendoza, Morgan State University 

GRAMMY-Winning Artist Nelly to Perform at 2024 ASAE Annual Meeting and Exposition

June 20, 2024—ASAE has announced that GRAMMY-winning artist Nelly will be headlining the Opening Celebration of ASAE's 2024 Annual Meetings & Exposition in Cleveland, OH on August 10 at Rocket Mortage Fieldhouse. “ASAE is excited to have Nelly kick off the festivities at our 2024 Annual Meeting in Cleveland,” says ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “Nelly’s music transcends generations and brings people together, which aligns perfectly with our conference theme. This Opening Celebration will set a powerful tone for the rest of the meeting as we come together to share insights and inspire one another.” The event's theme "In Unity, We Thrive," aims to gather the association community in learning, connections, strategic insights and inspiration.

Hosts Global Expands DMC Services to Benelux Region

June 20, 2024—Hosts Global, destination management company, has announced Creators of Live will be added to its Global Alliance Service. Through this, DMC service will be available to the Benelux region that also includes Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg. "We have grown through creating memorable experiences, forging meaningful connections, and embracing limitless possibilities," says Jacco Verschoor, Founder of Creators of Live. "We are beyond proud to join the Hosts Global Alliance family and can’t wait to welcome you to our exquisite destinations. Our passion for live communication and events allows us to make stories come alive and create lifelong memories. With over 15 years of expertise in the Hospitality & Event industry, we’ve built a vast and exclusive network of partners worldwide, ensuring that borders do not limit us. Each event begins with a collaborative process, grounded in our creative, exclusive, and hospitable approach, guaranteeing transparency and exceeding expectations."

Terramar DMC Expands SoCal Team

June 19, 2024—Terramar has announced the expansion of its Southern California team with the addition of Michelle Stansfield, CPCE, as senior sales manager. Her main focus will be Palm Springs’ role within the brand. “In light of the increased demand in the region overall, it makes sense to continue to match that growth within team Terramar. Michelle brings not only a wealth of experience and knowledge, but a strong presence as a leader in the meetings and events community,” says Lisa DeLeon, vice president of global sales. “There is no better individual to assist with these expansion initiatives and help Terramar continue to grow.”

Travel Portland President & CEO Announces Upcoming Retirement

June 19, 2024—Travel Portland President and CEO Jeff Miller has shared that he will retire in December 2024, and Travel Portland has embarked on a search process to find a new leader for the DMO. Miller has spent nearly two decades leading Travel Portland, working to shape Portland's reputation as a premier destination, harness tourism as a force for community good and economic viability and overall lead with extraordinary vision and tireless dedication. During his 19 years in the role, Portland saw record-breaking tourism numbers annually for a decade beginning in 2009. Convention sales saw numerous events come to the city and some of the city's largest conventions to date. He also oversaw the creation of the city's Tourism Improvement District (TID), which created new revenue channels to fund greater promotional work. He led the organization through challenges such as the pandemic and delayed tourism recovery. "I believe in Portland and I believe in the dedicated tourism professionals who will carry the torch after me," Miller says. "I'm excited to pursue other interests, but also committed to a smooth transition and using the next year to ensure the organization remains well positioned for future success."

Gary/Chicago International Airport Breaks Ground on $12-Million Hangar

June 19, 2024—Gary/Chicago International Airport (GCIA) broke ground on a $12-million, 47,000-square-foot aviation hangar. When the hangar opens in May 2025, it will house Wingtip Aviation. The project is being partly supported through Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb’s Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) grant program, which is providing $1.3 million. “GCIA has seen extensive growth and investment over the years, and this new hangar is further evidence of the airport’s incredible promise as an economic engine for the City of Gary and our region,” said City of Gary Mayor Eddie Melton. “Investments such as this new hangar create jobs and critical economic investment to the region, helping provide a strong foundation for future economic development.” This is the latest development in a series of which that began in 2015, starting with the expansion of the GCIA’s main runway in 2015, followed by the addition of its U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility in 2018.

Visit California Driving $62.2 Million Investment to Lure International Travelers

June 18, 2024—Visit California's Board of Directors recently approved a $156.6 million marketing program around their Lt's Play and Born to Be Wild (road trip messaging) campaigns. "Although we face headwinds with a very strong dollar and excessive wait times for visas, international visitors are beginning to return to California in greater numbers," said Visit California President and CEO Caroline Beteta. Last year, international visitor spending was up nearly 28% year-over-year, growing to 80% of its pre-pandemic peak. The most recent forecast predicts that international visitor spending in California will exceed 2019 levels by 2025. Chinese visitors are still just 48% of 2019 peak numbers.

Marriott-Starbucks Loyalty Collaboration Announced

June 18, 2024—Marriott Bonvoy travel program and marketplace, and Starbucks announced a new collaboration offering benefits to their respective members when they link loyalty accounts. Starting today, members enrolled in both programs can  earn these new benefits such as double stars during stays and Bonvoy point during designated Marriott Bonvoy Weeks. To celebrate the new loyalty collaboration, Marriott Bonvoy will launch a sweepstakes to win a range of prizes, including a Grand Prize trip to visit each of the Starbucks Reserve Roasteries in Seattle, Milan and Tokyo with a stay in a participating hotel and round-trip air transportation fare included. 

76% of Hotels are Experiencing Staffing Shortages, According to AHLA Survey

June 13, 2024—In May, the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) conducted a survey of hoteliers in which 76% of respondents reported their hotels were experiencing staffing shortages. 13% reported being severely understaffed, which means that the staffing shortage is affecting the hotel's ability to operate. 79% report being unable to fill open positions. 50% ranked housekeeping as their most pressing staffing need. These numbers have worsened since January, when 67% of respondents reported experiencing a staffing shortage. However, in a more positive trend, respondents on average shared they are attempting to fill seven jobs per month, as opposed to nine jobs per month in January. In response to these shortages, hotels across the board are ramping up pay, benefits and perks to draw employees. Hospitality workers have seen unprecedented growth in their industry since the COVID-19 pandemic, with average wages increasing faster than other industries, as well as increasing benefits and flexibility. Kevin Carey, AHLA interim president & CEO, says, "“Strong summer travel demand and a nationwide workforce shortage have combined to create more pay, perks, and upward mobility for current and prospective hotel employees. But hotels need access to more workers to continue creating jobs." To this end, AHLA is lobbying Congress and the administration for solutions aimed at growing the workforce while also upholding programs that provide hospitality workers with tools and support to achieve successful careers in their industry, such as the Empowering Youth and Registered Apprentice programs.

PCMA Event Achieves Sustainable Event Standards Certification

June 13, 2024—The Events Industry Council has announced that Convening Leaders 2024 (CL23), EIC member PCMA flagship education and networking event, has received Silver Level Certification to EIC's Sustainable Events Standards. “PCMA has a unique opportunity – and responsibility — to contribute to the global efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change,” says Sherrif Karamat, CAE, President and CEO, PCMA and CEMA and Immediate Past Chair of the EIC Board. “EIC’s Standards provide us with a framework to measure our event impact while guiding us to rethink how we plan and produce our work collectively. We now have the necessary baseline to create platforms and environments to drive sustainability leadership, and advocate for the importance of a sustainability by design approach.”  EIC uses the standards of organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact.

House passes No Hidden Fees Act for Lodging

June 12, 2024—The lodging industry—from short-term rental platforms like Airbnb to online travel agencies, to metasearch sites and hotels—is a step closer to being required nationwide to tell guests upfront about mandatory fees. The U.S. House of Representatives this week passed the No Hidden FEES Act in a bipartisan vote. “It makes sense for all lodging businesses,” said American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President & CEO Kevin Carey, whose organization has made it a major legislative priority to have such a federal mandate in order to create “an even competitive playing field.” Despite a glare of negative publicity on hidden resort fees, AHLA’s most recent data shows only 6% of hotels nationwide charge a mandatory resort/destination/amenity fee, at an average of $26 per night. Fees tacked onto basic rental rates are common on short-term rental platforms and other sites that feature lodging. To go into effect, a Senate version of the bill must yet be passed. It must then be signed by President Biden, whose administration has pushed for transparency in hidden fees charged to customers by corporations, including airlines. The Federal Trade Commission recently proposed a ban on junk fees that would make it illegal not to disclose the purpose of any extra fees a consumer is required to pay.

Visit Orlando Launches New Meetings Website

June 11, 2024—Visit Orlando has announced the creation of enhanced websites along with a new meetings website to better promote Orlando to meeting planners, attendees and travel professionals. The website, OrlandoMeetings.com, will be a one-stop shop for meeting planners and offers vital information and resources for planners as well as the ability to submit RFPs. Following considerable research to understand the needs of their patrons the VisitOrlando.com, OrlandoMeeting.com, VisitOrlando.org, MagicalDining.com are now available in Spanish, Portuguese, French Canadian and German. “These new platforms are more than just websites — they serve as gateways to our destination for all of our unique audiences around the world, especially meeting planners and attendees,” says Casandra Matej, president & CEO, Visit Orlando. “As one of the first opportunities meeting planners have to connect with our destination and make decisions about how they spend their time and resources, it is critical we make the experience as helpful and meaningful as possible.” New features include:

• Modern engaging design
• Better performance
• Multilingual support
• Interactive neighborhood maps

The new language websites can be found here:

• Spanish: es.VisitOrlando.com
• Portuguese: pt.VisitOrlando.com
• French Canadian: de.VisitOrlando.com 
• German: de.VisitOrlando.com

ASAE Honors Four Association Leaders as its 2024 Class of Fellows

June 11, 2024—Today, ASAE announced that four association leaders have been selected for its 2024 class of Fellows. Each year, the ASAE Fellows program recognizes and honors association leaders making notable, sustained contributions to both their own organizations and the association industry as a whole. The 2024 ASAE Fellows are:

• Neal Couture, FASAE, CAE - CEO, The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)
• Rita Chen Fujisawa, MBA, FASAE, CAE - CEO/executive vice president, California Association of Health Facilities
• Sheri Sesay-Tuffour, PhD, ICE-CCP, CNED, FASAE, CAE - CEO, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board
• Zack Wahlquist, MS, RCE, FASAE, CAE - CEO, Chicago Association of REALTORS^®

Cvent Passkey and FreedomPay Join Forces for Credit Card Security

June 11, 2024—Cvent, the leader of meetings, events and hospitality technology provider and FreedomPay, a leader in Next Level Commerce technologies, have shared an integration and payment tokenization initiative at Cvent CONNECT in San Antonio, Texas. “Today’s buyers and suppliers want greater security, personalization and efficiency, and we’re proud to partner with a leading, global organization like Cvent, which shares in our commitment to ensuring each of those areas is not only addressed but prioritized. Our combined focus on innovation and dedication to data security represents the future of hospitality and group business," says Nate Ware, SVP sales & Digital Development at FreedomPay. The integration will allow for direct tokenization of credit card numbers, which helps hoteliers deter against payment fraud and data breaches.

Meet Hawai'i Launches New Website for Planners

June 10, 2024—Meet Hawai'i has announced the launch of a newly refreshed website to draw meetings, conventions and business groups to the Hawaiian Islands. The Meet Hawai'i website offers one-stop destination portal for planners and now includes an interactive map of the Hawaiian Islands, unique venues, voluntourism experiences, sustainability programs and Hawaiian cultural learning and corporate social reasonability opportunities.

Cvent Acquires AI-powered Online Vendor and Supplier Sourcing Platform, Reposite

June 10, 2024—Cvent today announced its acquisition of Reposite, an AI-powered online vendor and supplier sourcing platform, in a move to expand its global vendor and supplier sourcing marketplace. Reposite offers a curated database of over 35,000 vendor offerings, including transportation, restaurants, entertainment, staffing, gifting and more, along with RFP creation tools and AI-powered quote matching solutions. With this acquisition, Cvent will extend its sourcing offerings with Reposite's diverse inventory of vendors to grow and expand the Cvent Vendor Marketplace; utilize Reposite's AI-matching technology to pair planner RFPs with the best-fit suppliers based on geography, group size, event dates, target audience and more; and use the platform approach to streamline communication and improve efficiency for both event professionals and vendors. Reposite co-founder Alexa Berube says, ""Cvent has been a driving force for the meetings and events industry and a long-time inspiration for our business. Since founding Reposite in 2020, our aim has always been to create a platform that fuels supplier discovery and seamlessly connects event and travel professionals to the critical vendors they need to deliver successful events.”

New Terminal Addition to Dubai Airport Will Make it Largest in the World

June 5, 2024—Dubai's new terminal additions to Dubai World Center—AI Maktoum International Airport (DWC) will make it the biggest airport in the world. With a $35 billion budget to accommodate 260 million passengers, it is projected to be five times the size of your average airport according to Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The ruler confirmed this past Sunday that within the next 10 years, flight operations at the current Dubai International Airport will be shifted to the new Dubai World Center—AI Maktoum International Airport (DWC). “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub, and its new global center,” says Rashid Al Maktoum. 

Visit Seattle Hosts Record Setting LGBTQIA+ Vow Renewal Ceremony

June 4, 2024—To kick off Pride month, Seattle hosted 56 couples for a vow renewal ceremony on one of the Argosy famed cruised ships. The celebration took place on May 30th, which also set a world record for most LGBTQIA+ couples to renew their vows at once. “It is a privilege to proclaim May 30 as Love For All Day in Seattle,” says Mayor Bruce Harrell. “We honor LGBTQIA+ love in Seattle, and we are proud to be a place where residents and visitors alike can celebrate who they are, and who they love, with the support of the community. Seattleites have a strong history of uplifting their LGBTQIA+ neighbors, leading the country when it comes to both rights work and Pride celebrations. Congratulations to the couples renewing their vows on the Love For All Boat, and to Seattle Pride on 50 wonderful years.”  Visit Seattle partnered with 13 hotels to create welcome packages for the couples to assist in the events' success.

Join EIC for a Panel Discussion on The Business Case for Sustainable Events

June 3, 2024—This Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 11 A.M. ET, EIC will hold a panel discussion to explore the business case for driving sustainability initiatives at events, alongside an update on the latest global regulations shaping ESG and sustainability in business. A panel of experts will dig into the intersections between business, sustainability and regulatory compliance. Whether those who tune in are business leaders, sustainability advocates or business event professionals interested in their part in global sustainability goals, the webinar aims to be an enriching resource for those who seek to drive meaningful change. The panel will be made up of:

• Felicia Asiedu, Market Director, Europe at CVENT
• John Davies, president, networks at GreenBiz Group
• Ben Goedegebuure, chief global strategy officer at Maritz
• Anita Howard, managing director at ICE (International Corporate Events)
• Emily Pierce, chief global officer and associate general counsel at Persefoni
• Ben Wielgus, head of sustainability at Informa

Gayle Murphy, chairperson of the EIC Sustainability and Social Impact Committee, will serve as moderator. Register to join the webinar here.

Montgomery, Alabama, Introduces Micro Transit for Major Event Visitors

May 31, 2024—Downtown Montgomery has introduced a micro-transit solution to meet demand for transportation during its major events. Available on Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store for $1.50, The M – Microtransit app lets attendees request on-demand rides in executive-style vans that take passengers to popular locations in the area, such as hotels, Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) and Montgomery Whitewater Park.

Inaugural Scholarship Event Honors DC Hospitality Students

May 30, 2024—The American Experience Foundation (AEF), the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington's Educated Easts (RAMW), the Hotel Association of Washington, D.C.'s Washington Hospitality Foundation (HAWDC) and the Washington Area Concierge Association (WACA) came together to honor students and career professionals with foundation scholarships that offer more than $70,000 in financial support, as well as hands-on learning programs in their career journey. “Working with students is one of the most important things to me, and as we look at our industry, our goal is to attract top talent from all backgrounds and show students that there is a lucrative career in hospitality and tourism,” says Elliott L. Ferguson, II, Destination DC’s president and CEO. “As we pool resources and demonstrate our commitment to the scholars in our high school career academies, our hope is to expand the options for students as they think about their future.” The recipients of the scholarships are from DC high schools and alumni from the District's career Academies of Hospitality & Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Mass Media, college students and young professionals.

Caesars Entertainment's Atlantic City Resorts Donate to Local Community

May 30, 2024—The leadership of Caesars, Tropicana and Harrah's Resort donated $140,000 to local organizations that include 200 Club of Atlantic and Cape May Counties, Avanzar, Boys and Girls Club of Atlantic City, CASA (Count Appointed Special Advocates), and Community FoodBank of New Jersey - Southern Beach. “For 45 years, Caesars Entertainment has remained committed to investing in our product, our workforce and giving back to the communities we serve. As the largest employer in the area, we remain dedicated to being strong partners to those making a difference in our region, where our guests and Team Members work, live and play. We are proud to present these incredible local organizations with grants from the Caesars Foundation this year, which will provide critical support for residents of Atlantic County,” says John Koster, Eastern Regional President, Caesars Entertainment. The Caesars Foundation also donated $25,000 to the Boys and Girls Club to enhance the lives of the children and teams by way of educational programs and development opportunities.

JetBlue Announces Crew Base in Puerto Rico

May 29, 2024—JetBlue is expanding its reach by opening a base at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)  in San Juan, Puerto Rico to station up to 120 pilots and over 300 inflight crewmembers. This will increase the ease of travel between the states and the island, especially when it comes to inclement weather conditions. Both Warren Christie, chief operating officer of JetBlue, and Puerto Rico Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi are excited about the airline’s expansion, which is expected to be in operation by the end of 2024. “We’re so excited to base hundreds more crewmembers right here in San Juan, where we are proud to be the largest airline with plans to grow even more,” says Christie. “The new crew base will support our operation as we grow and benefit the local economy in a place we are proud to call home.” “This great announcement from JetBlue is a testament to the potential of our Island and the growth we have had in the tourism sector over the past three years,” says Pierluisi.

New CVB Formed in Atlanta Area

May 24, 2024—The East Point Convention and Visitors Bureau, which was previously a member of the Atlanta Airport District CVB is now an independent destination marketing organization minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport representing 20 branded hotels in an area that includes Dick Lane Velodrome bicycle racing facility along with Georgia Sports Park. Situated adjacent to Tyler Perry Studios East Point has served as a backdrop for several award-winning movies and television series including “Stranger Things,” “Ozark,” “The Walking Dead,” “The Wonder Years” and “Hidden Figures.” "We are excited to put East Point top of mind, both domestically and internationally, to establish ourselves as a unique premier destination," said President Chantel Ross Francois.

Breeze Airways Announces Exponential Growth Plan

May 22, 2024—The relatively new airline Breeze Airways is expanding in a big way. Launched just three years ago in 2021, the airline currently offers around 132 weekly flights to less than 20 destinations out of T.F. Green International Airport. The new projected plan is slated to increase to 35 destinations with over 200 non-stop flights in the next five years. With the plan to have nine operating bases by the end of 2024, including three additions in Florida and three in New England, and an ambition for more domestic flights, both international and domestic, Breeze Airway CEO David Neeleman expresses his excitement about the expansion. "Anywhere we can draw a seven-hour circle around Providence," says Neeleman. "We have a lot of flexibility that we could do: Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, even some places in Central America.” "We always say, if we're going to add a city, we add four or five destinations — and if those fill up, we'll keep adding. We see there's a clear path to 35 different places we can fly to [from Providence]. The airport's been supportive, the governor, everyone."

Renewed FAA Authorization Boosts Air Safety, Passenger Rights

May 20, 2024—A five-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Authority signed into law by President Joe Biden mandates the hiring of more air-traffic controllers and safety inspectors at aircraft factories, increasing collision-avoidance technology at airports and enhancing access for passengers with disabilities. It also reaffirms recent Department of Transportation rules that require airlines to issue automatic refunds when flights are delayed or canceled. Cash refunds will be given for domestic flights delayed more than three hours and international flights delayed more than six hours. President Biden called the reauthorization “a big win for travelers, the aviation workforce, and our economy. It will expand critical protections for air travelers, strengthen safety standards, and support pilots, flight attendants, and air traffic controllers.” The bill also prohibits airlines from charging extra fees for families to sit together.

New Orleans & Company Launches New Brand Campaign with Local Ad Agency Brand Society

May 20, 2024—New Orleans & Company, the official destination sales and marketing organization for the city of New Orleans, today launched a new multi-media campaign through collaboration with local ad agency, Brand Society. The campaign partners with several local entertainers and industry stars, and it is designed to attract visitors, create jobs in the area and overall propel New Orleans and Louisiana's economy through its travel industry. Brand Society Associate Creative Director/Copy Chief Lori Archer Smith wrote, in the brand manifesto, "She's a place where you don't just sight-see, you sight-feel. Although she's filled with history, New Orleans never gets old...Once you visit New Orleans, you're a part of New Orleans." The campaign also introduces a new loco, featuring a crescent moon in the city's name to represent positive energy, optimism and abundance. The campaign will be made up of TV commercials, digital, radio and print advertising and a full identity kit. A list of iconic local talent is featured throughout the campaign. The full video playlist is available here. New Orleans & Company President and CEO Walt Leger III says, "Our partners have done a tremendous job showcasing the things that makes New Orleans one of the most remarkable cities in the world...We believe that travel is essential, that it brings people together and changes people for the better, and that when people travel to New Orleans, they become a part of us and we become a part of them."

Soundings Launches Career Coaching Services for Female Leaders

May 20, 2024—Talent acquisition platform Soundings has launched Soundings Elevate, a program that offers three career coaching services designed to help female event professionals advance their careers. “I am deeply passionate about advancing the careers of women, not only as a female founder and business owner who has navigated these challenges but also as a leader who believes in the transformative power of diversity and inclusion for driving equity, innovation, and collective business success,” said Tracy Judge, founder and CEO of Soundings. Soundings Elevate offers three coaching services:

• Strengths assessment and coaching: Participants gain access to Gallup’s StrengthsFinder assessment to identify their top five strengths. A professional coach will review the results and link the professional’s strengths to their career paths.
• Career accelerator: This three-month, cohort-based career development journey includes bi-weekly coach-led sessions. In addition to skill development, there’s also opportunity network and build lasting industry relationships.
• 1:1 coaching: A team of professional, certified coaches with industry knowledge are chosen to help individuals leverage their strengths and navigate any obstacles impeding their career goals.

San Francisco Travel President and CEO Resigns Abruptly

May 16, 2024—After holding the role for only seven months, Scott Beck has resigned at president and CEO of San Francisco Travel. According to SF Travel, Beck has stepped down for personal reasons. Anna Marie Presutti, vice president and general manager of Hotel Nikko in San Francisco, is taking over as interim president and CEO. Presutti also was previously board chair for SF Travel; this role will be filled by John Anderson, general manager for San Francisco Marriott Marquis Hotel. “San Francisco Travel will continue to be the champion of hospitality for all those who want to visit, enjoy, dine and work in one of the world’s best cities,” Presutti said. “Our board will conduct a search for a new CEO who embodies the spirt of San Francisco, is a skillful manager of a great team, and is experienced in attracting conventions, business travelers and tourists to great cities.”

ASAE Honors Susan Sarfati with Visionary Award at IMEX Frankfurt

May 16, 2024—In ASAE's ongoing efforts to increase awareness around the Power of Associations, ASAE's President and CEO Michelle Mason presented Susan Sarfati, FASAE, CAE (Ret.) with the Visionary Award during the IMEX Gala Dinner on May 15th in Frankfurt Germany. “ASAE and the association community owe Susan Sarfati a debt of gratitude for her visionary leadership and innovative thinking over her decades-long career,” says Mason, “Susan’s passion for associations and her driving commitment to advancing this vital sector around the world made her the obvious choice for ASAE’s inaugural Global Association Visionary Award.” In her current work, Sarfati consults with associations around the world such as India, Uganda, Thailand, Malaysia and more! “I am thrilled to be the inaugural recipient of the Global Association Visionary Award, and I couldn’t be more proud of ASAE’s expanding global presence,” Sarfati says. “Receiving this honor at IMEX is truly unforgettable – it’s a gathering where everyone is welcomed into a vibrant, innovative and socially conscious global community. What I’ve discovered [in my career] is that learning is a two-way street. Despite our differences in culture and background, people are fundamentally similar. Now, more than ever, the world needs us to bridge divides and reach out globally. Together, we can make a difference on a scale we’ve never imagined.”

Fontainebleau Miami Beach Unveils Coastal Convention Center

May 15, 2024—Fontainebleau Miami Beach is celebrating its new expansion with the opening of the Coastal Convention Center in Q4 of 2024. The five-story, 45,000 sq. ft. convention center will be able to accommodate events of any size. In a collaboration between Fontainebleau Development, Nichols Architects and interior design firm Jeffrey Beers International, the modern design of the Coastal Convention Center does not neglect the spirit of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach. According to the press release, the new addition incorporates the "architectural legacy" of the historical luxury resort. "The Coastal Convention Center will be a jewel in the crown of Fontainebleau Miami Beach...a new magnificent home for business and leisure events along the oceanfront," says Jeffrey Soffer, chairman and CEO of Fontainebleau Development. "This is the next evolution of our brand, further solidifying our role as a global hospitality leader."

Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa Announces Hospitality Internship

May 14, 2024— Hammock Beach Golf Resort & Spa in Palm Coast, Florida, has announced its summer internship program in partnership with Florida State University’s Dedman School of Hospitality. The program consists of a 13-week, paid internship with on-the-job experience in F&B and catering sales, as well as a project to complete throughout their internship. The internship begun in October 2022, and seeing major success since, the two collaborators are making it more widely known. “Our goal is to provide a summer internship program that is rich in experiences in a positive and productive environment, with the ultimate goal to bring seasoned interns into full-time positions at our resort after the conclusion of their senior year at Florida State University,” says Managing Director Carlton Grant.

Convene and City Cruises Announce Partnership

May 14, 2024—Convene and City Cruises, operator of dining, sightseeing and private event cruises, announced a cross-referral partnership in select U.S. cities. This partnership will let Convene clients add experiential outings to their corporate events, as provided by City Cruises, and City Cruises to help clients source additional meeting or conference venues for their events. “We’re in an experience-driven economy and are witnessing significant investment in experiences being prioritized over things,” said Phoenix Porcelli, CMP, head of sales at Convene. “Our relationship with a like-minded, highly experiential company like City Cruises allows us to provide Convene clients with an even greater comprehensive offering to curate an exceptional meeting or conference experience for all attendees.” Clients from either Convene or City Cruises will receive preferred rates when adding additional experiences from the partnering company. Convene and City Cruises are co-located in six U.S. cities: New York City; Chicago; Washington, D.C.; Philadelphia; Boston; and San Francisco.

Cvent Ranks Top Meeting Destinations and Hotels for 2024

May 14, 2024—Cvent published its 2024 lists of Top Meeting Destinations and Top Meeting Hotels, highlighting cities, hotels and venues taking steps to be leaders in event technology. Cvent’s Top 10 Meeting Destinations are as follows:

1. Orlando
2. Las Vegas
3. Nashville
4. Dallas
5. San Diego
6. Chicago
7. Atlanta
8. Denver
9. Phoenix
10. Austin

It’s worth noting that Orlando was No. 1 in 2023, as well as 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019. Nashville dominated the Top Meeting Hotels list in North America, accounting for four of five:

1. Grand Hyatt Nashville
2. Omni Nashville Hotel
3. JW Marriott Austin
4. JW Marriott Nashville
5. Renaissance Nashville Hotel

See the Cvent’s full list of Top Meeting Destinations here and Top Meeting Hotels here.

New Jersey Franchise Bill Moves Forward, Despite Concerns

May 13, 2024—Today, a committee in the New Jersey Assembly approved bill A3495, legislation that would decouple the connect and brand standards between hotel franchisor and franchisee. This bill is still being considered in the state Assembly and similar legislation, bill S2336 is pending in the state Senate. American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President and CEO Kevin Carey, as well hoteliers, expressed concerns regarding the two bills. Many believing the two will result in lower brand standards across the board. “If A3495 and S2336 become law, they will lower hotels’ quality, service, and safety standards and drive many brand-name hotels out of the state. On behalf of New Jersey’s more than 45,000 hotel employees, we urge lawmakers to rethink this flawed legislation and have a transparent debate about the extreme negative effects it would have on the state’s economy and its hoteliers,” Carey said.  “We applaud the committee members who today rightly acknowledged that the bill must be amended before full Assembly consideration and before they will consider supporting it. Franchising is too critical to the success of the hotel industry for this to be rushed through the legislative process, and we will be working closely with state legislators to ensure they understand the dangers this bill poses to New Jersey’s tourism industry.” Assemblyman Robert Karabinchak, the bill's sponsor, said AHLA and lawmakers are working on amendments to the bill to address hoteliers’ concerns. The bills being introduced to New Jersey’s hospitality industry include the following:

• Require brand improvements such as Wi-Fi, mobile check-in, breakfast, etc., to be negotiated property by property, which will weaken brand standards.
• Allow hotel owners to use “comparable” products to those required by brands, which will weaken brand standards and lead to increased litigation as both parties try to determine what is comparable.
• Force hotels to allow their federally registered trademarks to be used on “comparable products,” undermining the value and destroying the trust in these trademarks.
• Undercut the loyalty points system that many brands use to reward loyal customers, which could force many brands to terminate these loyalty programs in New Jersey.

Association Forum Names Award to Honor Chris Mahaffey

May 7, 2024—Association Forum announced that its Inspiring Leader Award will now be named the Chris Mahaffey Inspiring Leader Award. This award is presented to an individual who has established a culture leading to employee satisfaction, motivation, engagement, and achievement. Chris Mahaffey, MS, CAE, FASAE, had a rich impact on the association community during his 45- year career. He was the CEO of Association Forum for 22 years and was responsible for many of the programs still thriving today. Under his leadership, the organization changed its name from the Chicago Society of Association Executives to Association Forum. Mahaffey also created Holiday Showcase, a signature event in its 36th year of success. Mahaffey died last year at the age of 69.

BCD M&E Uses AI Tool to Enhance Productivity

May 6, 2024—BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E) is introducing a new technology innovation, Assist. The goal of this new technology is to increase team productivity. In a press release from BCD M&E, the company says "Assist has been developed to enhance productivity, streamline processes and provide valuable assistance in day-to-day tasks. At the same time, it prioritizes responsible AI and the security and privacy of data and intellectual property." Bruce Morgan, global president of BCD M&E, has high hopes for this technological venture. "We firmly believe that Assist has the potential to significantly enhance our efficiency and effectiveness, and we are excited to explore its possibilities," says Morgan. "As we continue to invest in technology to empower our teams around the world, our focus will be on ensuring compliance and data security."

AHLA Report: Hotels Add 1,200 Jobs in April

May 3, 2024—Hotels in the United States added 1,200 jobs in April, according to the latest data by the U.S. Department of Labor. While numbers are increasing, this reflects hospitality employment numbers that are still far from pre-pandemic levels, which stood at 193,600 more employees in February 2020. “Hotels are doing all they can to attract and retain workers, but the nationwide workforce shortage is preventing our industry from reaching its full potential,” said Kevin Carey, American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) Interim President and CEO. “AHLA members need help filling open jobs so they can maintain and expand operations. The Department of Homeland Security can provide vital assistance by making available nearly 65,000 additional H-2B visas. Meanwhile, we are urging Congress to pass three important bills to help grow our nation’s workforce: the Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act, the H-2 Improvements to Relieve Employers (HIRE) Act, and the Closing the Workforce Gap Act.” The bills Carey is referring to are designed to expand the hospitality workforce. Under the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, the Department of Homeland Security has been given the power to to make available 65,000 additional H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas; a power which the AHLA is urging the DHS to take advantage of. Total hotel employment stands at roughly 1.92 million.

The Ritz-Carlton, Portland Achieves LEED Gold Certification

April 30, 2024—The Ritz-Carlton, Portland has achieved LEED Gold Certification as a result of its efforts to build a sustainably-conscious building and enact environmentally-friendly operations. The hotel's biophilic design showcases the abundant natural beauty of Oregon with strategically-chosen design features that pay tribute to the region's natural surroundings. Select floors of the 35-story build feature outdoor terraces with an eco-roof, which is planted with low-water-requirement native and adaptive plant species that capture and store rainwater within the soil, helping reduce the urban heat island effect. The hotel is also committed to water use reduction and a sustainable storm water systems through smart weather-based controllers to irrigate. From the onset of its construction, 75% of construction waste was recycled and diverted from landfills, and construction utilized low-emitting building materials in paint, insulation, and composite wood and flooring. It's LEED Gold Certification can be attributed to its energy efficiency measures derived from a building envelope and mechanical system. Proximity to local transportation and ample bike storage further achieve lower carbon emissions. Further sustainable updates include the anticipated addition of energy-efficient LED lighting and low-flow hot water heater fixtures.

Visit Lauderdale Announces Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program at Convention Center

April 29, 2024—Visit Lauderdale has announced the expansion its partnership with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. The Broward County Convention Center recently signed on as the first convention center in North America to adopt the program. The ribbon cutting ceremony took place on Monday, April 29. “Visit Lauderdale is committed to providing everyone a safe and supportive environment and has long championed inclusion and accessibility tourism by removing barriers in the travel experience for everyone,” says Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. All convention center employees will receive Hidden Disabilities Sunflower training. The center will also have a Zen Room dedicated to individuals with a hidden disability. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple tool for individuals with non-visible disabilities to share that they need extra assistance while traveling. For more information on the Hidden Disabilities Program visit: https://hdsunflower.com/us/

Disney World Resort Restaurant is the First Theme-Park Dining Establishment to Win a Michelin Star

April 29, 2024—Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is home to Victoria & Albert's, which was recently awarded a Michelin star. This award makes it the first dining establishment at any theme park to join the Michelin Guide. It joins 26 other restaurants in the state of Florida. The upscale restaurant offers prix-fixe menus start at $295 a person. Diners enjoy their meals among Victorian-theme murals and wallcoverings and under a ceiling adorned with flowers and butterflies. They must adhere to semi-formal or formal attire, and children under 10 are not allowed.

LVXP Announces Plans to Deliver Experiential Mixed-Use Development on Las Vegas Strip

April 29, 2024—Experiential-focused real estate development company LVXP has announced plans to transform a 27-acre site on the Las Vegas Strip located at 2601 South Las Vegas Boulevard. The site will be an immersive, technology-driven environment that will serve as an entertainment and sports arena complete with a retail plaza, convention space, a destination casino and several luxury hotels and residences. It will be strategically located across from the newly expanded Las Vegas Convention Center and will be adjacent to Fontainebleau Las Vegas and right by Resorts World Las Vegas. The team spearheading the development is made up of experts in real estate, finance, marketing, technology, sports and entertainment. Chief Construction Officer Nick Tomasino most recently managed the construction of The Sphere as senior vice president of construction as Madison Square Garden Entertainment. Steelman Partners, Las Vegas-based entertainment and architecture firm, will design the architectural plans. "We are honored to be stewards of this significant milestone in the city's legacy, says CEO of LVXP, James R. Frasure, Jr.  "Our commitment is to create a destination that captures the essence of Las Vegas and provides lasting benefits for the community. For me, this endeavor is more than a project—it's a promise to uphold the spirit of innovation and enthusiasm that defines our local culture.

Hard Rock International and Royal Caribbean Group Announce Partnership

April 26, 2024—Hard Rock International, Seminole Gaming, and Royal Caribbean Group brands Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises have announced their global partnership that will allow travelers to take advantage of the combined amenities and discounts offered across the brands’ properties and cruise ships. Through the rewards programs offered by the brands, Unity by Hard Rock, Royal Caribbean’s Club Royale and Celebrity Cruises’ Blue Chip Club, members will receive reciprocal benefits when they visit any Hard Rock location or set sail on any Royal Caribbean or Celebrity ship. "Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are thrilled to help our valued guests and team members bring their love of entertainment, traveling, dining and gaming to the high seas through this incredible 'no limits' partnership with our South Florida neighbors at Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises," said Jeff Hook, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Seminole Hard Rock Support Services. According to a press release by Hard Rock International, this partnership includes the following:

• Unity by Hard Rock loyalty members will receive discounts on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity vacations and can qualify for invite-only cruise giveaways. Top-tier loyalty members will also receive an annual complimentary cruise on select ships and itineraries.
• Club Royale and Blue Chip Club members receive exclusive discounts and perks at participating Hard Rock locations, including annual complimentary trips at select Hard Rock hotels and casinos worldwide for premium tier Club Royale and Blue Chip members.

GBTA joins Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative

April 24, 2024—Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the business travel and meetings trade organization, has joined Net Zero Carbon Events (NZCE), the worldwide event industry initiative to address climate change as a supporter of the campaign. Since its launch at Cop 26 in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2021, NZCE has developed a comprehensive portfolio of resources to support events industry organizations toward achieving net zero carbon emissions. These include a Roadmap and advisory reports on Venue Energy; Smart Production and Waste Management; Logistics; Travel and Accommodation; Food and Food Waste; Offsetting and Measurement. With the campaign now focused on implementation in each of these areas, GBTA and NZCE will be working together with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) on implementing the Travel and Accommodation element. “GBTA has unparallelled expertise and experience in the technical aspects of business travel and sustainability, especially through the Sustainability Initiative of the GBTA Foundation,” said James Rees, president of the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), which is driving the NZCE initiative for the industry. “It is also a tremendous testimonial to the framework that NZCE has developed that GBTA will be using this for their own events in future.” Suzanne Neufang, CEO of GBTA, commented, “We are pleased to be part of the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative and working with the JMIC and other key organizations to bring the power of our collective efforts to ensure more net zero-focused approaches to the very significant sector of meetings and events.” Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, said: “It's crucial that the meetings and events community as a whole joins forces to advance sustainable practices and policies around the globe, and as more organizations come on board, we get closer to our goal of net zero by the year 2050." NZCE is open to all organizations involved in events. Registration is free of charge, but financial contributions are sought to develop the campaign.

California Senator Promotes Bill Against Clear (YOU)

April 23, 2024—California Senator Josh Newman is sponsoring a bill to ban Clear (YOU), a yearly subscription membership for airline passengers to skip lengthy security lines. In Newman's opinion, this is a "basic equity issue" that will cause customer dissatisfaction amongst travelers. “It’s about dignity in the travel experience of people who don’t have money to pay for upsell services,” says Newman. “The least you can expect when you have to go through the security line at the airport is that you don’t suffer the indignity of somebody pushing you out of the way to let the rich person pass you." While the bill has support from both democratic and republican representatives in California, airlines are mostly opposed. Major airlines including United, Alaska and Delta argue that the dissolvement of their partnership with Clear (YOU) will hinder the way in which airports handle security lines and cause loss of revenue.

FFAIR Expands Into North America

April 23, 2024—Multiple award-winning event technology platform FFAIR today announced its official expansion into North America. Just recently, it entered into its first transatlantic partnership with event registration company EventsPass. FFAIR provides a centralized, multi-supplier shop and exhibitor manual that aims to simplify the exhibiting experience by providing access to pre-, onsite and post-event operational and marketing essentials, streamlining time-consuming tasks, promoting sustainable event choices and boosting revenue for event organizers. Its headquarters will remain in the UK while the company opens a new office location in Seattle. FFAIR will be exhibiting at Event Tech Live Las Vegas May 1-2, 2024.

Brightline West Breaks Ground on High-speed Rail Connecting Las Vegas and Southern California

April 22, 2024—Brightline West officially broke ground on a high-speed train station that will connect Las Vegas to Southern California. The project, which was awarded $3 billion from President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, will create transportation that will run on zero emission, electric trains that can travel at up to 200 miles per hour. More than 600 people attended the event, including union representatives, project supporters and other state and local officials from California and Nevada. The ceremony included comments from U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Brightline Founder Wes Edens, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, Nevada Sens. Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto. “People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades—and now, with billions of dollars of support made possible by President Biden’s historic infrastructure law, it’s finally happening,” said Secretary Buttigieg. “Partnering with state leaders and Brightline West, we’re writing a new chapter in our country’s transportation story that includes thousands of union jobs, new connections to better economic opportunity, less congestion on the roads, and less pollution in the air.” In addition to the Las Vegas stop, there will also be stops in Victor Valley, Hesperia and Rancho Cucamonga in California. The project is set for completion in 2028.

Raleigh Convention Center Drives Forward Expansion Project

April 22, 2024—Raleigh Convention Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, has announced two new partnerships to complete the team working on its expansion project. With this team in place, the project is now estimated to be completed in 2028. Clancy & Theys, Shanska, D.A. Everett Joint Venture will act as construction manager. It will be joined by architecture firm TVS and local partner RATIO Design to design and build the project. Cumming Group and their MWBE partner Cate Services will act as owner's representative. This expansion will grow the convention center by a full city block, adding 80,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space and 30 additional breakout rooms. Sister venue Red Hat Amphitheater will shift slightly southward, and this shift is anticipated to be completed in 2026.

Visit Milwaukee Unveils New Brand, Logo

April 17, 2024—Created after two years of research, surveys and interviews, Visit Milwaukee has its first new brand and logo since 2005. It’s anchored to messaging themes about the Wisconsin city of “fresh, flavor and forward.” “This new brand captures so much of what makes Milwaukee unique—our fresh coast and big ideas, our cultures that create the local flavor that makes us interesting, and the energy and celebration that are giving us so much forward momentum right now,” says Josh Albrecht, Visit Milwaukee’s Vice President of Marketing & Communications. The new logo is a stacking of three iterations of the letter M. The top line stands for the city’s heartbeat and energy. The middle celebrates its Lake Michigan coastline, rivers and wind. The third represents the area’s diversity and the “combined strength of every person and culture represented here.” Visit Milwaukee President & CEO Peggy Williams-Smith credits “all of the thoughtful feedback and ideas that local leaders, businesses, frontline staff, and thousands of residents contributed to the research phase of this work.”

Oakland International Airport to Change Name, SFO Promises to Sue 

April 16, 2024—Oakland International Airport (OAK)'s Board of Commissioners have voted this week to rename the airport San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) officials have expressed in no uncertain terms they will be pursuing legal action should this decision be approved in a second vote on May 9th. In a press release from Danny Wan, executive director of the Port of Oakland, he states "I'm very pleased with today's unanimous board approval, especially as a proud Oaklander myself who wants to enhance economic activity and local jobs for Oakland." Kaley Skantz, a spokeswoman for Oakland International Airport, is also in support of the name change to improve awareness of the airport and improve "the lack of geographic awareness among inbound travelers." "SFO cannot lay claim to the geographically descriptive term 'San Francisco,' let alone claim exclusive rights to the San Francisco Bay," says Mary Richardson, an attorney for the Port of Oakland. However, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu disagrees. "The names 'San Francisco Airport' and 'San Francisco "International Airport' are famous and highly recognizable among consumers in connection with the airport services that only SFO provides," says Chiu. "While the proposed new name is very likely to cause confusion and mistakes broadly, the problem will be particularly acute for an audience of international travelers who may not speak or read English. Those international travelers comprise an essential part of SFO's consumer base." UPDATE April 18, 2024—This afternoon, the city of San Francisco pursued legal action against the City of Oakland for its plan to include "San Francisco" in its airport name. San Francisco City attorney David Chiu has filed a federal trademark infringement lawsuit, alleging that the proposed name change would infringe on San Francisco International Airport's (SFO) trademark.

MPI Announces Aloe Blacc Performance at WEC President's Dinner

April 16, 2024—Meeting Professionals International (MPI) announced that the entertainment for its annual President's Dinner at World Education Congress will be Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Aloe Blacc. The event will be May 21 at Mellwood Art Center in Louisville, Kentucky and will honor MPI Volunteer Chapter Leaders and MPI's Industry Leader Award winner Steve O'Malley. The event will also recognize the 2024 RISE Award winners. Blacc, who is known for the songs "I Need  Dollar," "The Man" and "Wake Me Up," which has been streamed over 2 billion times, uses his platform for positive social transformation. He describes his music as A.I.M. to represent affirmation, inspiration and motivation.

EIC and Oak View Group Announce Strategic Partnership

April 15, 2024—Events Industry Council (EIC) announced a partnership with Oak View Group to further its commitment to sustainability and support its clients and partners to achieve their green meetings goals. The EIC Sustainable Event Standards are a collection of eight specific standards that assess events and industry suppliers on a wide range of sustainability criteria. This partnership will provide the platform for further EIC initiatives through OVG event venues, including Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) training, Sustainable Event Professional Certification (SEPC) training and further learning and development programs. Through collaboration with the GOAL platform (Green Operations & Advanced Leadership), which supports continuous data collection and analysis across the convention center portfolio, properties can reach their sustainability objectives through best practice sharing, measurement tools and on-site consulting. The partnership with EIC provides high-profile strategic recognition and thought leadership opportunities to collaborate with EIC on its CMP, CMP Fellows and sustainability programs. OVG plans to certify its entire convention portfolio of 60+ venues in phases. "This partnership is grounded in our shared goals of promoting event industry excellence, advancing uniform standards of practice and setting the highest standards for professional and personal growth for those in our industry," says EIC CEO Amy Calvert. "We are thrilled to work with Oak View Group to certify their convention centers to EIC's Sustainable Event Standards."

Beverly Wilshire Brings Holograms into Suites in New Partnership

April 15, 2024—Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in California has brought hologram technology into its penthouse and presidential suites, in partnership with Proto, a holographic communications platform. The M, the device found in Beverly Wilshire’s suites, will be able to live beam a guest experience team member into the room at the guest’s discretion. Both the guest and staff will be able to see each other and communicate in real-time. “We are elated to provide our guests with yet another way to communicate with us. Based on the guest preference, we can communicate in person, through the Four Seasons Chat, text, a call and now by beaming via hologram into their room” says Director of Guest Experience Serge Sturbois.

The Breakers Palm Beach Named by Fortune Magazine One of 100 Best Companies to Work for in US

April 15, 2024—The Breakers Palm Beach was included among Fortune magazine's list of 100 Best Companies to Work for^® in the U.S. in 2024, announced by Fortune Media^® and Great Place to Work^®. It rises to No. 59 in its second consecutive year on the list, and the only independent hotel to rank. As a family-owned resort in 1896, The Breakers' is recognized for its purpose driven culture and investment in employee-wellbeing through meaningful programs and initiatives to team members.

L.A. Hotel Strike: 34 Down, 30 to Go

April 12, 2024—Southern California hospitality workers represented by Unite Here Local 11 have given an overwhelming thumbs up to a new contract with 34 hotels. Another 30 properties without agreements with the union are still strike targets. Under the new deal, which runs until Jan. 15, 2028, workers will get more pay, better employer contributions to their pensions and more favorable workload guarantees, according to the union. The union said room attendants, cooks and other nontipped workers will get stepped wage hikes totaling $10 an hour, to $35 an hour by July 2027. Cooks will be paid as much as $41 an hour. Automatic 20 percent gratuities at full-service hotel restaurants will be shared with all restaurant staff. The new contract keeps health insurance for workers that caps the employee contribution at $20 a month for full family coverage. "We have won a life-changing contract that transforms hotel jobs from low-wage service work to middle-class professional positions," said Kurt Petersen, copresident of Local 11. A spokesperson for California Hotel & Lodging Association told the Associated Press, "The ratification votes are a long time coming. We're glad that hotel employees who have been waiting months now can enjoy the benefits of new contracts, including increased compensation, and continue the great work they do for our guests and our communities." More than 10,000 employees in greater Los Angeles began rolling strikes at 52 hotels in July 2023.

Orlando's Poet Laureate Composes Poem for GMID

April 11, 2024—In honor of GMID, Visit Orlando partnered with Orlando's poet Laureate, Shawn Welcome, to create a poem to highlight the importance of in-person meetings and the positive impact the industry has on destination's community, local businesses and the economy. Click here to hear the poem.

ALTOUR Merges Four MICE Businesses Under YES Brand

 April 11, 2024—ALTOUR, the corporate travel division of Internova Travel Group, a major global travel services company, today announced the merger of all its meetings, incentives, conference and exhibitions businesses under the YES (Your Event Solutions) brand.  The new entity will include YES, an event planning agency founded in the United Kingdom; the MICE divisions of ALTOUR and Travel Leaders Corporate in the United States; and On Tempo, the event planning division of Corporate Travel Services, based in Mexico City. As a single unified brand, YES will enable ALTOUR to offer enhanced services, greater buying power and increased global service offerings for MICE programs, the company says. “The merging of these four powerhouse MICE businesses is the culmination of many months of hard work and planning by dozens of team members all around the world,” said Sue Gill, founder of YES. “Since starting this incredible business from my bedroom back in 2001, I’m amazed at what our passionate team has accomplished. I couldn’t be prouder to finally say that YES is truly better together!” The combined businesses of YES have already delivered experiences to 226,200 attendees at more than 7,675 events across 66 countries in the last 12 months.

Satisfi Labs, Merges with Live Entertainment and Attractions AI Provider

April 11, 2024—Satisfi Labs, a leading AI powered Conversational Experience Platform, has announced it is mering with the leading provider of AI-powered concierge services focused in live entertainment and attractions. Satisfi Labs will also be naming a new Head of Entertainment during this time. Satisfi Labs works with over 500 clients around sports, tourism and entertainment. Last year, Satisfi Labs launched Context LLM Repsponse Team, merging patent-pending contextual repsonse technology with larger language model capabilities to strength the Answer Engine system.

Cookie Smoak, President of ATL Airport District, Announces Retirement

April 10, 2024—Cookie Smoak, president of ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors, announced her plan to retire Sept. 30, 2024, after spending 11 years with the organization and 46 years within the hospitality and tourism industries. “It is with mixed emotions that I announce I will retire as president of the ATL Airport District (CVB), Smoak says. “I assure you that this decision was a well-thought-out and difficult one to make. The last 10 and a half years with this organization and team have been the most rewarding in my 46-year career, and I consider it my greatest professional accomplishment," said Smoak in a message to her team. "Together, we have created a collaborative, high-performing and successful team with a culture based on trust and respect for each other. I cannot wait to see what the future holds for this team!" Smoak has received several noteworthy accolades and achievement throughout her tenure in the industry. Most recently, she was awarded the Georgie Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus’ Larry Allen Tourism Leadership Awards. She was also the first woman in the tourism industry to be granted one of Atlanta Magazine’s Women Making a Mark Awards. In 2023, she was recognized as an influential leaders in Georgia Trend’s Georgia 500 list. Smoak says she plans to work with the executive committee to find the right replacement to step into She adds: “The great news is that my replacement will inherit the most incredible team I have ever had the privilege of leading, and will have the opportunity to work with some of the most outstanding businesses, entrepreneurs, attractions and facilities the state of Georgia has to offer.”

Cox Announces New Contract with Las Vegas Convention Center

April 9, 2024—Cox Business/Hospitality Network has announced a new five-year contract with an optional five-year extension that will offer wireless and wired telecommunications and Distributed Antenna System (DAS) services to the Las Vegas Convention Center Visitors Authority (LVCVA). “Cox provides advanced telecom services to iconic world-class convention centers and resort properties throughout Las Vegas and around the country,” says Mark Greatrex, president of Cox Communications. “We look forward to continuing to deliver an elevated customer experience for Las Vegas Convention Center and millions of guests.” In the new contract, Cox will provide service to 4.6 million sq. ft. of convention space and meeting rooms space at Las Vegas Convention Center.

IAEE, MPI and SITE Re-Launch Global MICE Collaborative

April 9, 2024—IAEE, MPI and SITE have announced the re-launch of The Global MICE Collaborative, a joint imitative aiming to advance global meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE). “The Global MICE Collaborative brings three of the industry’s best-known associations—IAEE, MPI and SITE—together to provide the global community of business events’ professionals with a ‘best of’ collaboration, initially focused on education. MPI brings networking, thought leadership and education for Meetings, SITE for Incentives and IAEE for Conventions and Exhibitions. We bring indispensable connections to our combined communities of over 110,000 MICE professionals located all over the world," says IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM. The Collaborative will re-launch with a keynote on Business & Event Trends for MICE Professionals at The Meeting Show, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, April 17-18, 2024.

Destinations International Announces Partnership with Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada

April 4, 2024—Destination International (DI) has announced a new partnership with Indigenous tourism Association of Canada (ITAC). The goal of the partnership is to deepen understanding and appreciation of Indigenous tourism through means of education and authentic engagement. "Through our partnership with Destinations International, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of Indigenous tourism and its cultural significance within the global travel industry,” says Keith Henry, President & CEO of ITAC.  “Through education and raising awareness of The Original Original mark of excellence, we empower destinations to authentically engage with Indigenous tourism business owners, thereby enriching the travel experience for visitors while promoting economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples. Further, Destinations International’s strategic priorities for destination organizations in 2024 align with ITAC’s vision to help make Canada become the global leader in Indigenous tourism by 2030." The partnership is a big step towards encouraging destinations to work with Indigenous tourism businesses in an authentic way.

ALHI Acquires 62ABOVE to Expand Global Services

April 3, 2024—Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) announced today in a press release that it will be acquiring 62ABOVE, a San Diego based marketing agency providing clients with services such as strategy, media and public relations. The acquisition is designed to broaden and build ALHI's global sales organization and utilize the expertise of 62ABOVE to grow its clientele and provide the best services possible. “We are excited that we can now offer 62ABOVE’s expertise and its full range of marketing," says President and CEO of ALHI, Michael Dominguez. “62ABOVE completes a critical segment of our comprehensive service portfolio.” 62ABOVE president and COO Greg Carson shares similar excitement about the acquisition. “The transition will be seamless for our clients. And we’re thrilled to work with ALHI to bring its research and insights to new and existing clients."

Destinations International Names ‘30 Under 30’ Class

April 3, 2024—Destinations International Foundation and Destinations International, the global trade association for CVBs and tourism boards, has announced its “30 Under 30” class of young professionals in the destinations industry. This year’s honorees are primarily from U.S.-based organizations, but they also include representatives from Puerto Rico, Canada, Ireland and Switzerland. “The ‘30 Under 30’ program remains critical to our organization’s vision and mission,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “As our industry moves toward recovery, we are especially excited to announce these young professionals as they are the future of the travel and tourism industry.” “We are thrilled to see the ‘30 Under 30’ Program enter its 14th year, and we are thankful for the foundation investors who make programs like these possible for our industry through their contributions,” said Ellie Westman Chin, CDME, president and CEO of Destination Madison and chair of the Destinations International Foundation. “We look forward to engaging with this group of emerging leaders through professional development, educational opportunities and networking with industry peers and leaders throughout the year and in the years to come.” The 2024 “30 Under 30” Class:

• Alexandria Eady, Content Manager, Richmond Region Tourism
• America Segura, Public Relations Manager, Visit Corpus Christi

• Andrew Lawrence, Assistant Director, Arlington Sports Commission, Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau

• Brittany Jones, Marketing Project Manager, Discover Durham

• Caitlin Neal, Marketing Director, Gilmer Chamber/Pick Ellijay

• Catherine Streater, Senior Coordinator, Brand USA

• Cristina Fernandes, Leisure Sales Coordinator, Discover Puerto Rico

• Fallon Tullier, Research and Technology Manager, Visit Baton Rouge

• Hailey Post, Destination Data Manager, Visit Raleigh

• Ian Wallis, Sales & Marketing Manager, Louisiana's Cajun Bayou Tourism

• Jessica VanDeMar, Marketing Manager, Visit Finger Lakes

• Kasmara Freiderich, National Sales Manager, Experience Rochester, MN

• Katie Clarke, People and Culture Coordinator, Destination Vancouver

• Lee Prutsman, Senior Marketing Manager, Visit KC

• Luke Alexopoulos, Senior Public Relations Manager, Visit Eau Claire

• Macy Dolton, Content Marketing Specialist, Destination DC

• Maggie Carter, Creative Marketing Manager, Visit Baltimore

• Martin Garneau, Senior Manager, Systems Architecture and Application Development, Banff & Lake Louise Tourism

• Mary Coryell, Manager, Partner Relations, Discover Lehigh Valley

• Megan Myers, Digital Media Director, Hocking Hills Tourism Association

• Megane Simone, Bid & Communication Manager, Geneva Tourism & Conventions Foundation

• Millie Stewart, Director of Sales, Visit Ogden

• Nathaniel Sweetman, Sports Marketing Coordinator, Visit Sarasota County

• Orla Moule, Business Events Assistants, Fáilte Ireland

• Samantha Green Ewald, Destination Services Manager, Visit Charlotte/Charlotte Regional Visitor's Authority

• Sheridan Powell, Communications Specialist, Visit Colorado Springs

• Sydney Macapagal, Digital Content Strategist, Visit Galveston

• Sydney Patterson, Marketing Manager, Visit Fort Worth

• Wayne Stewart, Director of Marketing & Communications, Visit Casper

• Wesley Sosa, Graphic Designer and Brand Manager, Visit Stockton

To learn more about each honoree, click here. The “30 Under 30” program is supported by founding program partner SearchWide Global and sponsored by Fired Up! Culture and IMEX.

Air Line Pilots Association Requests Voluntary Leave from United

April 2, 2024—Due to several incidents with Boeing carriers issued to United Airlines, Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) announced yesterday that pilots should consider unpaid voluntary leave. Several cracked windshields and toilet overflows have happened within the last week, following very recent issues that have led federal regulations increasing the oversight of United's Boeing carriers, such as outer fuselage falling off jets, engine fires and lost tires on the tarmac. “Due to recent changes to our Boeing deliveries, the remaining 2024 forecast block hours for United have been significantly reduced,” the Air Line Pilots Association wrote, according to CNBC. “While the delivery issues surround our 787 and 737 fleets, the impact will affect other fleets as well.”

Norse Atlantic Adds Las Vegas-London Gatwick Flight

March 28, 2024—Norse Atlantic Airways has announced the launch of their first flight from Las Vegas (LAS) to London Gatwick (LGW). The first flight will commence on September 12, 2024. “We are hugely excited to celebrate the launch of our new service from Las Vegas to London Gatwick, offering travelers from America yet more choice to fly in comfort and style—at amazing, affordable prices,” says Bjorn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways. “London Gatwick is a fantastic commercial hub for travelers who need to reach London quickly or are flying off to other European destinations and it’s a fantastic addition to our portfolio.” Once arriving at London Gatwick, passengers can take a 30-minute train ride to London to enjoy the wide selection of galleries, museums, bars and restaurants.

ConferenceDirect partners with Sessionboard

March 27, 2024—ConferenceDirect, the Folsom, Calif.-based provider of conference and event planning services has formed a strategic partnership with Sessionboard, the speaker and content management company headquartered in San Diego, to offer Sessionboard’s technology platform to its clientele of conference planners and event marketing teams. The partnership reflects “a shared vision of leveraging technology to simplify complexities in event management and content delivery,” according to a press release. ConferenceDirect customers will now have access to Sessionboard's tools designed to optimize the planning and execution of events, including streamlining the call for papers process, abstract evaluation, agenda management, speaker and sponsor communication, asset collection and content integration.

Bellagio Fountain Club Returns to Vegas Strip for F1 2024

March 26, 2024—MGM Resorts International has announced in a press release that Bellagio Fountain Club at Bellagio Hotel and Casino will return for the Formula 1 Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix 2024, occurring from November 21st through Nov. 23rd, 2024. Tickets are now on sale for one of the most prestigious racing events operating in America. With views of the track and the fountain, the Bellagio Fountain Club promises to be a luxurious front row seat to the F1 festivities. "Bellagio Fountain Club's debut at last year's Las Vegas Grand Prix event surpassed all expectations," said Andrew Lanzino, MGM Resorts International's vice president of citywide events strategy. "Following the incredible reception from our guests last year, the team is hard at work crafting plans for an even more exceptional experience when racing's most exciting event returns to Las Vegas."

AMEX GBT Will Acquire CWT

March 25, 2024—American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) announces that it has entered an agreement to acquire global business travel and meeting solutions provider, CWT, for an approximately $570 million cash-free, debt-free transaction value. The transaction will be funded by a combination of stock and cash. Subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2024. Following the acquisition, CWT's 4,000 customers would have access to Amex GBT's software and services for travel and expense, including to the broadest portfolio of professional services, including meetings and events, consulting and sustainability solutions. CWT CEO Patrick Anderson says, "Joining forces with Amex GBT helps accelerate our vision of a tech-enabled future for business travel, where people and technology combine to deliver an exceptional customer experience." Amex GBT CEO Paul Abbott added, "Bringing CWT onto the proven Amex GBT software and services model will create more choice for customers, more opportunities for people and more value for shareholders." The acquisition is expected to deliver significant shareholder value. Approximately $155 million of annual run-rate synergies within three years is predicted, 35% of which is expected to be realized in 2024, and a dedicated integration team will execute the synergy plan. In the first year of transaction close, it is expected to break even in earnings per share, and become accretive thereafter.

Hawaii Visitors May Soon Pay Fee to Fight Climate Change

March 25, 2024—A new tourist fee in Hawaii got closer to becoming reality in recent weeks. Two committees in the state’s House of Representatives have voiced strong support for imposing a $25 fee for visitors, which would be used to address climate change-related issues like flooding, coral erosion, wildfires and other environmental problems, according to news reports. Separately, the Hawaii Senate has been considering a different bill, SB304, variously referred to a “green fee” or “conservation fee,” that would require visitors who use the islands’ public beaches, trails, parks and other natural resources to pay an annual tourist impact fee of $50. That body took up the measure last year, but shelved it until reviving it in January. Gov. Josh Green has also campaigned in favor of such an idea. At a recent session of the House Energy and Environmental Protection Committee last month, a representative from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) raised concerns about how such funds would be collected. “It’s important to note that if we’re going to honor the intent of this bill, which is to capture the impact of guests … to our islands, then we need to make sure that we’re not ignoring everyone who’s visiting us here,” the AHLA spokesperson testified. “If we’re collecting only at our hotels, because effectively we know that it will be the hotels that will follow up on collecting any additional tax, we’re ignoring the tens of thousands of illegal short-term rentals that are really driving the public’s concern around the impacts of overtourism.” Opponents of such a fee worried that the islands’ economy has yet to bounce all the way back from pandemic levels, and that the added cost could negatively impact visitor numbers. For any such tax to be levied, the enabling bill must pass in both legislative chambers and be signed by the governor.

The White House Recognizes The Venetian and The Just One Project’s ‘Food Rescue Alliance’

March 25, 2024—During a White House briefing in late February, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff named “Food Rescue Alliance” as one of the 141 initiatives that are a part of the White House Challenge to End Hunger and Build Healthy Communities by 2030. Since being set in 2022 by President Biden the project has received $1.7 billion in new commitments from partnerships. “The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is committed to helping its community members in need and to underscore our dedication to social responsibility, we’re honored to partner with The Just One Project to further eliminate hunger in our community,” said Patrick Nichols, president and CEO of The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. “Our team members saw an opportunity to increase our food donation efforts after large conventions and tradeshows, and we knew it was something we had to do. The Food Rescue Alliance collaboration will more than double the number of our healthy meals that are accessible to individuals and families in our community. It is a program that makes us all very proud to be Venetians.” The Venetian Resort has been at the helm of food rescue since 2014, but this new program, launched in late 2023, is designed to better serve the community by increasing the number of meals rescued on property from trade shows, conventions and meetings.

JetBlue Shrinks Routes After Failed Spirit Merger

March 20, 2024—JetBlue will no longer fly to and from Kansas City and is reducing South American routes originating from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). JetBlue also announced it will not be resuming service to Newburgh, NY, which it suspended during the pandemic. The reshuffling of its schedule comes in the wake of a federal judge’s rejection of its proposed merger with Spirit Airlines. In a statement, the airline said it is “constantly evaluating our routes to best serve our customers, return our airline to profitability, and find ways to improve our reliability." In an internal memo leaked to the press, JetBlue said it was refocusing on what it called “bread and butter” routes on the East Coast, the Caribbean and cross-country flights. The airline posted a decline in revenues and a net loss in its most recent quarter.

Sphere Announces First Keynote Event With Hewlett Packard

March 20, 2024—Las Vegas’ Sphere is set to have its first non-entertainment event. On June 18, a keynote address by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) President and CEO Antonio Neri will take place, as part of HPE Discover 2024 at The Venetian Convention and Expo Center June 17-21. “Sphere is where the world’s biggest artists, and now the biggest brands, go when they want to create an experience unlike any other,” said Jennifer Koester, president, Sphere Business Operations at Sphere Entertainment. “Sphere is a next-generation medium and a powerful platform for companies to educate and demonstrate—connecting with their audiences in a way they can only do at Sphere. The HPE keynote will leverage the venue’s cutting-edge technologies to deliver a bespoke experience that sets a new bar for brand storytelling and corporate events.”

Qatar Airways Announces World's First AI Cabin Crew

March 19, 2024—Qatar Airways presented Sama 2.0, the second generation of its virtual holographic cabin crew at the world's leading travel trade show, ITB Berlin 2024. Sama, meaning "sky" in Arabic, caused ripples throughout the trade show with its ability to interact with both visitors and media according to a press release from Qatar Airways. Qatar Airways has partnered with UneeQ, an innovator of AI digital human technology, to make this vision come to life. "Sama embodies UneeQ's commitment to blending technology with empathy and personalization, providing an innovative solution that aligns with Qatar Airways' reputation for world-class service," says Danny Tomsett, CEO for UneeQ. "She's a testament to the endless possibilities of AI, capable of delivering personalized and engaging interactions that mirror human conversation." March 18, 2024—The Event Technology Awards (ETA), has announced the finalists for the US and Canada awards here. According to ETA, the finalists "put forward outstanding submissions, representing a diverse range of companies and solutions that demonstrate excellence, creativity and impact within the event tech sector." The winners will be revealed at Event Tech Live Las Vegas on May 1st, 2024 to celebrate the event techs at the top of their field from US and Canada. Co-founder of ETA Adam Parry expresses excitement for the event. "The caliber of entries for the Event Technology Awards US & Canada is truly exceptional," says Parry. "Congratulations to all the finalists and we look forward to crowning the winners at Event Tech Live Las Vegas."

Southwest Admits to Issues and Announces Hiring Freeze for 2024

March 18, 2024—After the breakdown of Southwest Airlines operations during the 2022 holiday season where thousands of people were left stranded, the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) has made it clear with the union's dissatisfaction with the organization and efficiency of the airline. Although the airline has invested $1.3 billion for improving infrastructure and IT, Captain Casey Murray, union president of SWAPA, says this won't fix everything. "None of that is going to solve the process problems of connecting pilots and airplanes," says Murray. "There has to be a refocusing on efficiency." Chief Executive of Southwest Airlines Bob Jordan says the airline is improving and regaining the trust of its customers as well as coming to agreements with the pilot's union. "We also made significant progress on our labor agreements, including the ratification earlier this week of an agreement that secures industry-leading pay for our best-in-class pilots," says Jordan. While Southwest is regaining its footing, it does not expect to receive all the planes from Boeing and therefore has cut overall hiring by 50% in 2024. "This is not business as usual," says Jordan. "We are being very aggressive in controlling what we can control."

Visit Boise Celebrates the Life of Bobbie Patterson

March 15, 2024—Bobbie Patterson, a longtime leader in the tourism, meetings and conventions industry and executive director of the Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau for over 30 years, passed away on March 2, 2024. In addition to serving for over three decades as executive director of the Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau, she became the first female chair of IACVB (now Destinations International) in 1998. She was inducted into the Destinations International Hall of Fame in 2015. Visit Boise and the entire Boise hospitality community remembers her avid dedication to the industry and enthusiastic membership and advocacy for the destination.

ECEP Will Hold 3rd Annual Symposium in Charleston This March

March 14, 2024—From March 17-24, 2024, members of Elite Catering + Event Professionals (ECEP) will gather in Charleston, South Carolina for the third annual symposium to explore a wide range of issues the industry is facing in the present day. There, top leaders in hospitality will attend education sessions strategically designed to support, encourage and inform attendees on future advocacy actions to benefit the industry, from succession planning to mastering media recognition to collaborative creativity. There will also be a robust lineup of business sessions on sales, marketing, operations and beyond. Charleston is a strategic destination choice, having inspired the event's educational and culinary themes. “Charleston has a rich and diverse culinary heritage,” says ECEP President, Michael Stavros. “We’ll be celebrating this in many ways during our time here, from keynote speakers such as Jessica Harris, author of ‘Same Boat, Different Stops,’ to events hosted at historic venues like the Thomas Bennett House with cuisine by local notable, Cru Catering who will be showcasing custom menus and station builds.”

Destination DC Hosts Sustainability Summit

Mar. 13, 2024—Destination DC (DDC) is hosting their inaugural Sustainability Summit that highlights the importance of federal and local partnerships. In partnership with the US. Environmental Protection Agency, the DC Department of Energy and Environment as well as local hospitality community the DDC is looking to make the tourism and events industry more sustainable. “We recognize our need to do more when it comes to sustainability, so the summit is a step in the right direction as we focus on what we can do collectively as destination stewards,” says Elliott L. Ferguson, II president and CEO. “Destination DC’s Sustainability District is an opportunity for collaborative learning, fostering economic and social opportunities for small businesses and the local community, reinforcing our collective responsibility to build a sustainable and vibrant future for our nation's capital.”

ASM Global Enters Partnership with Playeasy

March 13, 2024—ASM Global has announced its partnership with Playeasy, a digital network focused on sporting events and sports tourism. The partnership with allow ASM access to more than 600 sports event operators in 100+ sports and activities. "We're thrilled to join forces with Playeasy as its leading sports events and sports tourism platform complements ASM Global's expertise in producing live event experiences,” says Anna Nash, vice president, market development, ASM Global, "This collaboration enhances our ability to drive content to our extensive portfolio of venues, facilitating easier access for sports-event organizers to our convention centers. By leveraging our network, we aim to empower organizers to expand their events across our diverse venues, boosting economic impact from out-of-state visitors." The partnership will allow for elevated awareness for the ASM Global convention centers as well as convention specific products and comprehensive real-time analytics for marketing strategies.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa Raises Awareness for Colon Cancer with Bum Run

March 11, 2024—The seventh annual Bum Run sponsored by Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in partnership with American Cancer Society (ACS) and their program Relay for Life Kauai is a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) effort to bring awareness and raise funds for colon cancer. Created in 2015, the Bum Run has personally impacted several members of the Grand Hyatt Kauai team and is an important event to highlight during the month of March, Colon Cancer Awareness Month. "As a colon cancer survivor nearing my 10-year anniversary of diagnosis, the Bum Run holds a special significance for me," says Diann Hartman, director of marketing communications with Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. "I am honored to welcome our guests and community for such a meaningful event." The Bum Run will take place on March 16th, with online registration on active.com.

Corinthian Events Announces Succession Plan

March  7, 2024—Boston-based event company Corinthian Events announces a succession plan for three longtime employees to assume control of the company by 2027. Co-CEOs Courtney Church and Jill Tate will sell the 24-year-old company to Jennifer Logan, Tamara O'Malley and Jamie Hellesen, the three of whom possess over 35 years of combined experience. “Jamie, Tamara and I have been working together for more than 10 years and have built a strong relationship grounded in hard work, mutual respect, and trust,” said Jennifer Logan, Managing Partner at Corinthian Events. “We’re so lucky and honored to be able to shepherd Corinthian Events into the future. I speak for us all when I say that with Jill and Courtney’s guidance over the next few years, we’re fully confident that our company will continue to grow and thrive.”  

Freeman Launches Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative Roadmap

March 7, 2024—Trade show, exhibit and event company Freeman today shared its Net Zero Carbon Events Initiative (NZCE) roadmap, providing a clear action plan to reduce its environmental impact while upholding and amplifying the event industry's strength of building communities around a common purpose. The roadmap, based on the company's existing initiatives and investments, focuses on three key areas where it can accelerate progress and innovation. These areas are reduction/replacement, expansion of rental and reuse programs, and expansion of end-of-event options in donation and recycling programs. Freeman is a founding signatory of the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge as of 2021, which now sees over 600 supporting organizations across 60 countries wThe orking towards a net zero goal in events. Freeman CEO Bob Priest-Heck says, "We know how to take on big challenges. It requires a clear strategy and a detailed tactical plan to solve a lot of smaller challenges over time, with each one taking us closer to the goal of Net Zero. We won't get there overnight. But we'll get there."

Destination Arabia Joins Hosts Global Alliance

March 6, 2024—Hosts Global has announced that Destination Arabia has joined the DMC. "We are thrilled to welcome Destination Arabia to our Alliance. With their deep-rooted knowledge and expertise in the UAE market, they enhance our ability to deliver exceptional experiences to our clients. This addition to our exclusive Alliance increases our global reach and solidifies our position as the industry leader as a one stop solution for best-in-class DMCs worldwide," says Robert Lee, VP of Global Sales & Alliance Engagement at Hosts Global. The range of offerings of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah, Destination Al Khaimah, Destination Arbia offer access to many vibrant destinations within the United Arab Emirates.

Egypt is Emerging as a Top Tourism Destination with Cairo City Break

March 6, 2024—Last year showed a groundbreaking 14,906 million number of visitors to Egypt and Egypt is eager to continue that momentum. The Cairo City Break program, presented by Egypt's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Ahmed Issa, is promising potential visitors and tourists an amalgam of luxury, history, ancient heritage and vibrant modernity. Egypt is increasing the ease of travel to tourist destinations to improve traveler experience, such as building an environmentally friendly and high-speed train connecting Hurghada and Luxor, projected to be completed by 2026. “There is no other city that offers visitors a journey through the epochs of every great civilization, starting from 3500 B.C. Our commitment is to make Cairo a destination that invites exploration over multiple visits or an extended weekend," says Issa.

MGM and Marriott Launch MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy

March 6, 2024—MGM Resorts International and Marriott International have officially launched their new MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy. Now, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and redeem points and make reservations at 16 MGM Collection resorts comprising MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy via Marriott.com and the Marriott Bonvoy app. Members of MGM Resort's loyalty program can link accounts with Marriott Bonvoy to directly tier match and receive member benefits. In addition, Marriott Bonvoy Moments inspired by MGM Collection launch today, where Marriott Bonvoy members can win an opportunity to choreograph the world-famous Bellagio Fountain Show along with the existing creative team, to enjoy a golf weekend at Shadow Creek or to venture behind the scenes at four Cirque du Soleil shows: KÀ, Michael Jackson ONE, Mad Apple and "O."

Holiday Inn El Paso West Completes $3.5 Million Renovation

March 6, 2024—Holiday Inn El Paso West-Sunland Park announced today the $3.5 million renovation of the property has been completed. The renovation included upgrades to meeting spaces, the restaurant and bar areas, the lobby and guest bathrooms. The press release states that the "meeting spaces have been redesigned to offer versatility and functionality, catering to a variety of events and gatherings. Whether for business meetings or social occasions, guests will find the updated facilities conducive to productivity and enjoyment."

Get Ready for CMP Advance!

March 5, 2024—CMP Advance 2024 will take place Mar. 11-13 at Fairmont Royal York in Toronto, Canada. This year, the event will open with a Mentor & Me breakfast, where new CMPs and CMP Fellows can engage face to face, making powerful professional connections right from the start. Participants will then gather for the opening keynote from Shawn Kanungo, author and innovation strategist, who will discuss the enormous impact of AI and its relation to infinite leverage. Following two days of networking and learning, the event will close out with a keynote from Dr. Lisa Bélanger, CEO of ConsciousWorks and author. She will explore the influence of community and connection both within a person's professional life as well as outside it. All participants at CMP Advance will receive a $75 USD discount to put towards their Sustainable Event Professional Certification, in addition to the 10 CEs they earn by attending CMP Advance. The event will follow the EIC Sustainable Event Standards and hopes to achieve certification; attendees will walk away with a refreshed understanding of what goes in to working towards these standards. In addition, designated quiet rooms will be available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day for attendees to use in need of a break, anytime.

Scottsdale Resort Partners with Chef Richard Blais

March 5, 2024—Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa is elevating its culinary scene with six new restaurant concepts and a partnership with Celebrity Chef Richard Blaise. The culinary makeover is another addition to the resort's $110 million renovation and branding to a Grand Hyatt property. The James Beard-nominated cookbook author and first ever winner of the hit show Top Chef continues to be a member of the Food Network's galaxy of superstar chefs, currently co-starring on the popular program Next Level Chef alongside Gordon Ramsay. “We are thrilled to announce a partnership with Celebrity Chef Richard Blais to debut elevated dining and bar experiences at our beautiful Sonoran Desert resort,” said Lance Marrin, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa. “The new and exciting concepts will provide a wide variety of global and local flavors that our guests and local residents will love. All of our restaurant and bar venues are expected to debut this fall as we finalize our extensive renovation project.”

Noble House Hotels & Resorts Returns to Northeast

March 4, 2024—Noble House Hotels & Resorts announced in a press release today that Chatham Inn Relais & Chateaux will be added to its portfolio of properties, a return to the Northeast for the brand in the seaside town of Chatham, Massachusetts. As the oldest inn on Cape Cod, Chatham Inn Relais & Chateaux is a luxury boutique built in 1830 with 18 guest rooms that have been renovated with high-end furnishings and textiles. "The addition of the Chatham Inn Relais & Châteaux to the Noble House Hotels & Resorts portfolio reinforces our commitment to grow with on-brand, award-winning, luxury boutique properties. We are also excited to welcome the team members of the Chatham Inn Relais & Châteaux to the Noble House family," said James Colee, CEO for Noble House Hotels & Resorts.

Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau Launch New Branding

March 1, 2024—Bloomington Minnesota Convention Center and Visitors Bureau have announced a new brand for the city's destination marketing organization — Bloomington, Minnesota Travel & Tourism. “With our revamped look and feel, we now feel more empowered than ever to pursue our mission of inspiring travelers to visit Bloomington so that they may experience our world-class experiences and trademark Minnesota hospitality first-hand," says Bonnie Carlson, President & CEO of Bloomington, Minnesota Travel and Tourism. The new visual identity, created in partnership with Minneapolis based firm Duffy, encompasses the city's energy as well as their grounded approach to customer service.

Hosts Global Announces REALM to Join Global Alliance

Feb. 29, 2024—Hosts Global has announced the addition of REALM, an Asian Pacific event destination management expert, to Global Alliance. "We are delighted to welcome REALM to Hosts Global. This partnership aligns seamlessly with our commitment to offering unparalleled access to extraordinary destinations. REALM's expertise in the Asia Pacific region adds a new layer of possibilities for our clients, and we're eager to embark on this exciting journey together," says Tina Gaccetta, SVP of Global Sales & Marketing for Hosts Global. The collaboration will expand Hosts Global's reach around the world, allowing them to offer clients continued extraordinary event experiences across nine destinations.

IAEE Gains EIC Sustainability Certification for Second Year

Feb. 28, 2024—The Events Industry Council announced IAEE's Annual Meeting & Exhibition has gained the EIC Silver Level Certification in its Sustainable Event Standards. The certification was performed by a non-for-profit auditing organization, The Alliance for Audited Media. "The independent certification process is a rigorous review of the company’s compliance to the EIC standards. We applaud IAEE on this achievement because it demonstrates their commitment to sustainable business practices and optimizing their performance year after year,” says Alliance for Audited Media President Richard Murphy. IAEE previously received a Bronze Level Certification in 2022.

Four Seasons Taking Reservations for New Destination in Mexico

Feb. 28, 2024—Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo Del Sol is now taking reservations in its preparation to open on May 1st, 2024. Inspired by the "pueblos mágicos"—"magic towns"—the resort is an amalgam of Mexican culture, music, art and lifestyle in one of the most luxurious destinations for incentives and executive retreats. "As we expand our portfolio in the most sought-after vacation destinations around the world, Cabo San Lucas has long been on our list, and we are thrilled to be opening a brand new Four Seasons experience that beautifully complements our existing resort on the more remote East Cape of Los Cabos,"— Antoine Chahwan, President, Four Seasons Hotel Operations Americas

Palm Springs Convention Center Designated as Certified Autism Center, First in California

Feb. 27, 2024—The Palm Springs Convention Center, managed by ASM Global, announced it is the first convention center in California to be designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) by the Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). Convention staff attended autistic and sensory-sensitive training aimed to better support the experience of attendees on the spectrum. “We are honored and proud to become a Certified Autism Center™, reflecting our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and our dedication to providing a welcoming environment for autistic individuals. By completing this training, we aim to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the experiences and events at our convention center," says Rob Hampton, General Manager of the Palm Springs Convention Center.

AHLA and Procure Impact Launch Program to Create 100,000 Hours for Overlooked Populations

Feb. 27, 2024—The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) and Procure Impact has launched Dignity of Work Pledge, an initiative focused to create 100,000 hours of paid employment for overlooked populations. Results of the imitative will be shared on the AHLA Responsible Stay website. “We believe the hospitality sector is uniquely positioned to harness its purchasing power to create unique and meaningful guest experiences and change millions of lives in the process. We are excited to partner with so many pioneers in hospitality who are building spaces and places grounded in belonging and purpose through the products that they feature and purchase,” says Procure Impact Founder & CEO Lauren McCann. Partners who have also agreed to sign the Dignity of Work pledge also include Davidson Hospitality Group, Pyramid Global Hospitality, Sage Hospitality Group, CoralTree Hospitality, Atrium Hospitality, Pacific Hospitality Group, Modus Hotels and 21c Museum Hotels.

Events Industry Council Announces Keynote Speakers for CMP Advance

Feb. 23, 2024—Events Industry Council recently announced their keynote speakers for the CMP Advance taking place on March 11th- 13th in Toronto, Canada. The opening keynote speaker, Shawn Kanungo, globally recognized innovation strategist and bestselling author will speak on how AI will impact society, business and culture. The closing keynote speaker, Dr. Lisa Bélanger will speak on the importance of community and connection.  CMP Advance will also be featuring a mentor breakfast for new CMPs and CMP Fellows.

Frenchman’s Reef Celebrates Grand Opening With Charitable Work

Feb. 22, 2024—Frenchman’s Reef in St. Thomas recently hosted a grand opening, commemorating the opening of The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman’s Reef and Morningstar Buoy Haus Beach Resort at Frenchman’s Reef, Autograph Collection, which followed a $425 million rebuild. U.S. Virgin Islands Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Commissioner of Tourism Hon. Joseph Boschulte were in attendance, along with the owners of Fortress Investment Group, who acquired the properties in 2021. “We are bringing Frenchman’s Reef into a new era, with a renewed focus on an immersive guest experience,” said Joe Gould, managing director of Fortress Investment Group. “With these two world-class resorts officially open to guests, we are ready to welcome the world to Frenchman’s Reef. This is a destination unlike any other, and we are committed to creating memorable moments for our guests to explore and unwind through outstanding service, exceptional amenities, and new restaurant and bar concepts that offer a true taste of the destination.” The evening featured live music and entertainment, culinary activations at the property’s on-site restaurants and a “Taste of Frenchman’s Reef” experience at the outdoor spa pool. Beyond that, Frenchman’s Reef donated $20,000 to the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Education, in support of the island’s youth.

Senate Commerce Committee Passes FAA Reauthorization Bill

Feb. 22, 2024—The Senate Commerce Committee has passed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill. The bill will help with long-term safety and the modernization of the U.S. air travel system. The bill must pass both chambers of Congress before heading to President Biden's desk for a final approval.

Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants Strike

Feb. 20, 2024 —Alaska Airlines flight attendants are authorized by three different union organizations to potentially pose a strike for the first time in 30 years. Employees in the cabin crew are threatening to picket outside airports in the U.S., the United Kingdom and Guam for higher pay. "We agree with our flight attendants that we need a new contract, which is why we've been working hard to get an agreement," Alaska Airlines said in a statement to FOX Business. " We've been offering industry leading top-of-scale pay for months with an immediate 15% raise to the entire pay scale and additional raises every year. we've closed more than 50 tentative agreements—representing dozens of topics where we've found common ground.

SEARCH Foundation Raises Record Contributions

Feb. 16, 2024—The Search Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that focuses on helping out meeting and catering professionals in crisis, raised $104,000 during their Annual Signature Event. "The support our foundation provides to individuals in crisis is only possible with the generosity of the industry members that give so selflessly. I’m pleased to report that at the Annual Signature Event at Skybox on 6th, followed by an after party hosted by Wilkinson-Rhodes, we surpassed our goal for this event ," says board chairperson, Kate Patay of Terramar, a DMC Network Company. "I am so proud of the event team and the sponsors for helping us to achieve this and welcome you to join us at all of our upcoming events in 2024 to keep the momentum going and assist more industry professionals when they need it most." Shortly after SEARCH was honored with the Steve Kemble Leadership Award, dedicated to the person or group who and shown an excellence in leadership through skills through service to the event and meeting industry.

WTTC Issues Call to Action to EU to Support Hospitality Industry

Feb. 14, 2024—Today, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) issued a Call to Action, urging European Union (EU) stakeholders to support the hospitality industry. The industry employs over 22 million people and contributes €1.4 trillion ($1.5 trillion) to the EU economy. The global tourism body places emphasis on three key areas, which it explains modernize and enhance the sector, and expects would support the sector to reach a €1.9 trillion ($2 trillion) contribution to the EU economy by 2033. "The Travel & Tourism sector is a key driver of economic growth in the EU and the measures within our Call to Action will ensure the sector continues to grow sustainably, attract new talent and prosper," says WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson. "We urge the EU to adopt these recommendations for the benefit of business and travelers globally. As the sector modernizes and unlocks the digital transformation of travel, together with the European Union we can achieve unprecedented growth." These areas are as follows:

1. A more sustainable future

As the EU carries out policy impact assessments on legislation implementation within hospitality, EU leaders have an opportunity to encourage more sustainable practices and help the sector to achieve net zero emission targets. In addition, the Call to Action urges EU leaders to be methodical and ensure future environmental legislation does not hinder, but rather complements, existing commitments and work already undertaken by the travel and tourism sector.

2. Supporting ease of travel across borders

When policies facilitate hassle-free travel, the hospitality industry sees growth and expanded job opportunities. Most critically, WTTC calls for simplified visa processes, and urges the EU to continue its work towards visa-free travel and removal of existing barriers, such as the already delayed Entry-Exist System.

3. Boosting the digitalization of the sector

WTTC sees the digitalization of hospitality as vital to its growth, efficiency, cost-reduction and economic growth, and calls on the EU to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge technologies by pursing policies that allow for contactless travel and implement AI across the sector. WTTC expresses it will support the EU in efforts to enable the digitalization of passports, streamlining of visa applications and digitalization across the entire traveler experience.

Walt Disney World to Open 'Tiana's Bayou Adventure' This Summer

Feb. 13, 2024—This summer, Florida's Walt Disney World Resort will debut Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom Park. The attraction "digs a little deeper" into Princess Tiana's story following the events of the Walt Disney Animation Studios' film, "The Princess and the Frog." Once guests enter the bayou, they will float through cypress trees and Spanish moss within a Louisiana bayou, where they will be greeted by the first-ever Tiana Audio-Animatronics figure along with numerous other characters and musical critters, including an otter, a rabbit and a turtle among many others. Along the way, music celebrates the heart of New Orleans sound, with a zydeco and other types of authentic music, alongside favorite songs from the film. Voice actors from the film reprise their roles, including Bruno Campos as Prince Naveen and Anika Noni Rose as Princess Tiana. Throughout the attraction, guests can see authentic NOLA artistry created by Louisiana artists, such as an original metalwork weathervane. To round out the immersive experience, guests will catch whiffs of the scent of frying beignets. Following its summer 2024 opening at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Tiana's Bayou Adventure will open later in 2024 at Disneyland Park in California.

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia Invite Media

Feb. 12, 2024—The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia (BHMVA) is celebrating Black History Month with new exhibitions including Holsinger Studio portraits, figurative sculptures and others to honor black history and culture. The exhibits are open for a press-only meet and greet to present sponsors and offer members of the media the opportunity to photograph the pop-up exhibitions on Wednesday, February 14th from 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. EST. The new exhibitions will be open to the public through Black History Month, ending Thursday, February 29th. The exhibition is presented by Tourism Cares with support from C&F Bank.

Visit Austin SVP and CMO Julie Chase Passes Away

[caption id="attachment_158628" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Julie Chase[/caption]

It is with a heavy heart we share that Visit Austin Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Julie Chase passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 4^th surrounded by her family.

Julie was a proud 4^th generation Texan and has called Austin “home” for more than 25 years. As Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Visit Austin, Julie led the marketing, tourism, film and music departments. Among marketing campaigns, event activations, and various other projects, Julie was also instrumental in working closely with Austin Bergstrom International Airport and helping to secure new flight service for Austin. Previously, she served as Director of Texas Tourism from 2003-2012. 

Julie loved spending time with her family and traveling the world. She was passionate about tourism marketing and much of Visit Austin and the Austin and Texas tourism community’s success can be attributed to her efforts and dedication.

Julie will be greatly, greatly missed.

More information regarding a Celebration of Life will be provided at a later time. 

Maritz Hosts Event for Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Feb. 7, 2024—January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. As part of its efforts in the fight against human trafficking, Maritz hosted an event on its St. Louis campus on Jan. 30 in partnership with The Covering House, a St. Louis-based organization dedicated to fighting human trafficking. The event, "The Role of the Internet in Trafficking & Tips to Keeping Kids Safe Online" saw attendance from 170 people both in-person and virtually. Maritz CEO David Peckinpaugh welcomed Givonni Orr, training manager at The Covering House; Keaton Strong, retired police caption, human trafficking specialist and crisis intervention specialist for Ritenour School district; Sarah Sharpe, cyber-security at Maritz; and Laura Baker, administrator of community engagement at The Covering House for a panel, moderated by Mary Clare Darland, director of sourcing at Martiz. The panel discussed how parents can monitor their childrens' safety on social media and signs of human trafficking to look for when traveling, as well as how everyone can be proactive to fight human trafficking. Maritz team members collected donations for the covering house. Those who are interested can view the event here.

Visit Anaheim Announces Local Workforce Development Initiative

Feb. 6, 2024—Visit Anaheim has announced the new workforce initiative aimed at inspiring high school students to look at careers in tourism and hospitality. Careers will range from hotel management to transportation, maintenance, and event planning. “By fostering connections and providing guidance, Workforce Development is bridging the gap between our industry and our community,” said Christina Dawson, Senior Vice President, Operations, Visit Anaheim. “This program will inspire students to pursue careers within the tourism and hospitality field while cultivating a skilled and diverse future workforce.” High schoolers will be able to participate in career fairs, access educational resources, internships and job opportunities.

Visit Newport Beach Will Hold a Drone Show at Allegiant Stadium Following Super Bowl

Feb. 5, 2024—Visit Newport Beach announces that it will hold the first ever 1,000-drone show at Allegiant Stadium, in Las Vegas, on February 11, following the Super Bowl. The show, titled, "Touch Down in Newport Beach," will take place one hour after the conclusion of the major football event. Those who can't make it in person can view a live-stream of the show thanks to a partnership with COX, the official telecommunications provider of Allegiant Stadium. It will be powered by SkyWorx, a team of world-class engineers, pilots and artists, that operates drone light shows. A partner of Smart Meetings since 2022, SkyWorx just recently put on the first drone show in downtown Monterey during the Smart Meetings Extraordinary Experience at Portola Hotel and Spa in November 2023. Not only will Newport Beach's drone show wow audiences with its scale and artistry; when the drones form a QR code in the sky, viewers will be able to scan it for the chance to win a Newport Beach vacation package. Additionally, throughout game week and beyond, geo-fencing technology will allow Visit Newport Beach to air a new football-themed commercial in 60,000 Las Vegas Strip hotel rooms.

127 Professionals Have Earned CAE Credential, ASAE Announces

Feb. 2, 2024—ASAE, the membership organization of over 48,000 association executives and industry partners representing over 7,400 organizations, has announced that 127 association executives have successfully completed its Certified Association Executive (CAE) program and earned the credential. They join over 4,500 credentialed industry leaders around the world. The CAE Program, accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCAA), elevates professional standards, enhances individual performance and designates the professionals who have acquired and demonstrated the knowledge essential to be a leading player in association management. These newly credentialed professionals will be honored during the 2024 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition in Cleveland Aug. 10-12, along with the upcoming May 2024 class.

ESPA Announces 2024 Award Winners

Jan. 30, 2024—The Event Service Professionals Association (ESPA) today honored the recipients of a number of prestigious awards, which spotlight outstanding leaders in the event services sector, association leadership and engagement, at its 2024 Annual Conference at the Hyatt Regency in Indianapolis. See the awardees listed below: Executive Excellence Award Diane DiAntonio, CMP, CEM, general manager at Massachusetts Convention Center Authority Event Service Professional of the Year Award DeShawn Fitzpatrick, CMP, senior client services manager at Visit Houston Leadership in Event Service Award Jarrica Guzman, event services manager at Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB 2024 Meeting Professional of the Year Bridget Robinson, CMP, CMM, director of national conventions & meetings at American Legion

ESPA Member Awards

William H. Just Memorial Award Patrick Coit, CMP, destination services manager at Meet Boston ESPA Members of the Year DeShawn Fitzpatrick, CMP, senior client services manager at Visit Houston and Amber Brewer, Event Service Specialist at Visit Rochester ESPA President's Award Esther Walker-Young, senior services manager at Visit KC In addition, ESPA presented the first-ever 2024 Appreciation Award to its longtime executive director, Lynn McCullough.

UK-Based Company DRPG Acquires American-Based TSEC

Jan. 24, 2024—The global creative communications agency DRPG has announced its newest expansion with its acquisition of The Special Event Company (TSEC) in its latest press release. TSEC has been a leading force in the industry for over 35 years and the acquisition will help both DRPG and TSEC expand their global reach and boost the events industry. Matt Franks, group director of events for DRPG, explains how the acquisition is mutually beneficial to both companies. "We recognized there are great synergies between the two companies and culturally the teams are very similar," says Franks. "These mirrored attributes and core values gave us the confidence this partnership and fit would succeed in delivering the very best experiences for our clients."

Conference Pro Aims to Revolutionize Conference Experience

Jan. 23, 2024—Conference Pro is looking to shake up the conference and trade show landscape. The groundbreaking company is looking to offer comprehensive reviews of conferences and trade shows done by event marketers and expert conference planning services. The ability to glimpse reviews of conferences will allow meeting professionals to under the dynamics of a successful conference. "We were having all these behind-the-scenes conversations with each other and recognized a gap in the market. Why is there Yelp for everything else, but not Trade Shows!? So, we created a platform that combines firsthand experience at conferences and Trade Shows with strategic planning. Conference Pro is the result of our collective expertise, aiming to elevate the conference and trade show experience for both organizers and participants," said David T Stevens, Co-Founder.

InteleTravel Acquires MGME

Jan. 23, 2024—Less than a year after aligning with Hickory Global Partners, InteleTravel has announced its acquisition of global events agency McVeigh Global Meetings and Events (MGME.) The three companies are planning to work together to provide high-end leisure and business travel. According to the press release from MGME, the brand will continue to operate on its own but will be owned by InteleTravel and, working with Hickory Global Partners, "clients will benefit from InteleTravel's resources and scale, as the three companies join in business development, purchasing power, cross-utilizing capabilities, and finding economies and efficiencies. "I am incredibly excited to ally MGME's professional storytellers and experienced designers with InteleTravel and Hickory's travel professionals and clients," says MGME COE Carvie Gillikin. "I know how much MGME can offer their agencies, and we are creating the next 30 years of leadership for MGME by being able to expand our travel and accommodations offerings for our global programs, and having access to all the other InteleTravel assets, technology and management."

Visit Anaheim Hosting Nearly 150 Meetings and Conventions in 2024

Jan. 22, 2024—Visit Anaheim has announced 142 conventions, meetings events scheduled to happen in 2024. The plan is projected to bring in more than $1.5 billion in economic impact to the Anaheim community and will generate $15 million in tourism occupancy tax (TOT). National Assocation of Music Merchants (NAMM) will be kicking off their event with nearly 75,000 attendees and nearly 25,000 room nights. "We are thrilled that NAMM has called Anaheim home for nearly 50 years," said Ronnie Collins, Senior Vice President, Sales & Services, Visit Anaheim, "Now that they're back to their regular programming in January for the first time since 202, we anticipate a high impact event, building on the rich history and vibrant musical community that they've nurtured here in Anaheim."

AHLA Foundation Hosts 6th-Annual Hotel Workforce Celebration

Jan. 22, 2024—On Jan. 21, AHLA Foundation hosted its 6th-annual Night of a Thousand Stars gala that honors leaders in the hotel industry. The event raised nearly $1 million to support AHLA Foundation initiatives designed to strengthen the hotel industry’s workforce. The event also held the Stars of the Industry Awards, which celebrates winners for their industry service. AHLA Foundation also introduced the Scholar of the Year Award, recognizing the achievements to a select hospitality student and demonstrating its commitment to the next generation of hospitality professionals. The third-annual Arne Sorenson Social Impact Leadership Award was granted to Hyatt Hotels President and CEO Mark Hoplamazian. “The Night of a Thousand Stars Gala brings our entire industry together to celebrate the work and dedication of the unsung heroes of hospitality – the ones at the heart of our industry,” said Anna Blue, president of the AHLA Foundation. AHLA’s 2024 Stars of the Industry winners: North Star Award Winner

• Colby Bracy, Director of Human Resources, The Nonantum Resort

North Star Award Finalists

• Alfonso Rauda-Serrano, Chief Engineer, Valley River Inn Eugene
• Bonnie Sager, General Manager, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Hazelton

AHLA Foundation ForWard: Paving the Way Award

• Lina Patel, Director, Strategic Franchise Initiative, Red Roof Franchising

Stevan Porter Emerging Hospitality Leader of the Year

• Adrian Adriano III, Director, Premium Brands, Marriott International

Foundation Scholar of the Year

• Olivia Cannella, Hospitality Senior, Michigan State University

CEMA Advisory Board Announced

Jan. 22, 2024—PCMA and Corporate Event Marketing Association (CEMA) announced the 2024 CEMA Advisory Board consisted of senior event marketing executives. The CEMA Advisory Board is partnered with PCMA to strengthen their goals of education and networking opportunities in the industry. Learn more about the 2024 CEMA Advisory Board members in the press release from PCMA announced by CEMA president and CEO Sherrif Karamat, CAE here.

Visit Anaheim Partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters

Jan. 17, 2024—Visit Anaheim has announced it will be partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire Workplace Mentoring Program. Focusing on encouraging and preparing the youth in Anaheim for college and/or the professional world, Christina Dawson, senior vice president of operations, Visit Anaheim, comments on the exciting new partnership. "With over 63,000 tourism jobs in Anaheim across the convention center, theme parks, restaurants, shops and hotels, Visit Anaheim is enthusiastic about getting young professionals interested in career opportunities within our industry."

Cvent Acquires Jifflenow and iCapture

Jan. 16, 2024—Hospitality technology provider Cvent announced that it has acquired Jifflenow, a B2B meeting scheduling platform and iCapture, a lead capture solution, to expand its trade show and conference offerings. Enhanced capabilities will enable sales and marketing teams to improve trade show performance and ROI through utomated appointment scheduling and universal lead capture, according to Reggie Aggarwal, CEO and founder of Cvent. Benefits to meeting professionals include:

• Maximize trade show impact by facilitating meetings with the highest-value customers and prospects

• Increase the number of event leads

• Better qualify and convert trade show leads

Destination DC Celebrates Sustainable Credentials

Jan. 13, 2024—As the first city in the world to achieve the Platinum level LEED for Cities certification, Destination DC announced Carbon Free DC, a plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. Major city upgrades include modernized LED streetlights as part of DC’s Smart Cities initiative. The city’s first electric buses have been activated and Metrorail Silver Line connects Washington Dulles International Airport to downtown DC.  DDC launched the Sustainability District so meeting and event planners and attendees can easily find sustainability initiatives at local hotels, restaurants and convention services.  

Orlando's Orange County Convention Center Pilots Shift Robotics' Moonwalkers

Jan. 11, 2024—Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Florida is the first public entity to recognize Shift Robotics' AI-informed Moonwalkers as OPDMDs (Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices) as it pilots the robotic shoes for use in all its facilities and becomes a customer. Shift Robotics' product, Moonwalkers, are nano-empowered mobility devices that allow users to walk up to three times faster, with a top speed of seven miles per hour. They use AI software to measure a user's stride, then enable each shoe to adjust to that user's Gait Cycle. Last year, they were named by TIME as one of the Best Inventions of 2023. OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester says, “We are eager to be the first convention center to pilot this impressive technology and see how its numerous uses can benefit our event staff and the efficiency of our shows...Through the pilot testing of the Moonwalkers, we can create a more efficient and less taxing method of travel for our team members who often walk miles around our large campus.”

Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming Promote New Strategies to Fight Human Trafficking

Jan. 10th, 2024—The commitment towards fighting human trafficking has been important to Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming for years. They are announcing their "new support tools for victims and those at risk, a youth education program, new trainings to help Team Members combat and prevent human trafficking, and work with new community partners to create a greater impact." Through organizations and innovations like Twentyfour-Seven Inc, Hard Rock Social Identity Quest and other programs launching in 2024, Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming are demonstrating corporate social responsibility (CSR). Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole gaining, expresses how important it is to commit to CSR. "We are deeply committed to the work our community partners provide for those at risk, victims and survivors of human trafficking in the United Stats and around the world as we work together to combat human trafficking," says Allen.

Pechanga Partners with the LA Rams for Those in Need

Jan. 9th, 2024—Pechanga Resort and Casino partnered with the LA Rams and the LA Regional Food Bank in December, 2023, to launch the 4th annual Drive Thru Food Distribution at SoFi Stadium, resulting in an estimated 60,000 meals distributed to families in need. These acts of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are inspirational as we enter into a new year. "We are thankful for the opportunity to help our neighbors in need in Los Angeles and throughout Southern California," said Ken Perez, president of the Pechanga Development Corporation. "We appreciate our partners and their generosity in supporting our community."

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas launches Venetian Rewards

Jan. 9th, 2024—The new Venetian Rewards is launching in March from The Venetian Resort Las Vegas to promote their loyalty program for both gaming and non-gaming visitors. This means even if visitors aren't gamers, there are other ways to earn Rewards Points. "Venetian Rewards marks yet another milestone in the ongoing evolution of The Venetian Resort," says Patrick Nichols, president and chief executive officer of The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. "This all-new program continues to provide the best access for our gaming customers and enhances earnings on experiences including gaming, dining, entertainment, our world-class spa and more, for all of our guests."

ConferenceDirect Partners with Reposite

Jan. 9, 2024− ConferenceDirect has announced its partnership with Reposite, which functions as a tool for Travel and Event planners, allowing for a streamline of communication, supplier discovery, creating RFPs, and building proposals. "We're thrilled to welcome ConferenceDirect into the Reposite community!” says Alexa Berube, Co-Founder of Reposite, “By integrating our robust platform and planning tools with ConferenceDirect's extensive service offerings, we are setting a new standard for excellence and efficiency. We look forward to seeing how this collaboration elevates the meetings & events industry as a whole.” ConferenceDirect is based out of Folsom, California and is a full-service meetings solution company.

Mexico Cuts the Ribbon on El Tren Maya

Jan. 8, 2024−Mexico has unveiled El Tren Maya (The Maya Train) which will run on a 290-mile track across the Yucatán peninsula. This will be the first installation of the project with future plans of adding 600 miles to the track. El Tren Maya will serve as a literal vehicle to increase tourism as it connects some of the most scenic and visited attractions in Mexico, yet the possibilities of the 600-mile track expansion can have a much larger impact. Transportation to less accessible regions can broaden the opportunities for less visible communities on the Yucatán peninsula to boost their economy with tourism and hospitality and provide resources for the region's expansion and growth. "There is a large section of the interior of the peninsula that doesn't have highways or roads," says Marilyn Masson, professor of anthropology at the University at Albany SUNY. "In the more remote sections, the train could potentially help these communities be better connected to the outside world."

AHLA Foundation Launches New Scholarship Application Portal for Hospitality Students

Jan. 8, 2024—American Hotel and Lodging Association’s charitable partner AHLA Foundation recently launched a new platform to ease its scholarship application process. In addition to improving the user experience, the new portal features a built-in eligibility assessment that lets students access every Foundation-hosted opportunity for which they’ve met the qualifications. The Foundation’s new system also lets students apply for multiple scholarship opportunities in one application. In addition to the management of the Incoming Freshman Scholarship and the Opening Doors to Opportunity Scholarship, eight other scholarships have been added to the new portal as well:

• Hyatt Hotels Fund for Minority Lodging Management Students
• Rama Scholarship for the American Dream Program
• American Express Scholarship Program
• Ecolab Scholarship Program
• Karl Mehlmann Scholarship
• Banks Brown Graduate Scholarship Program
• Arthur J. Packard Memorial Scholarship Program
• Stephen P. Holmes Scholarship

You can learn more here: ahlafoundation.org/scholarships

Seattle Convention Center Summit Building Earns LEED Platinum Certification

Jan. 4, 2023—The Seattle Convention Center (SCC) Summit building, which opened in January 2023, becomes one of the few convention centers in North America to earn LEED Platinum Certification from the U.S. Green Buildings Council (USGBC) under its New Construction (v3) rating system. SCC has been consistently committed to environmental sustainability in its facility operations, and this certification affirms its continued efforts.

Summit's LEED certification marks SCC's third—Arch at 705 Pike achieved LEED Silver certification for Operations and Maintenance, and Arch at 800 Pike earned LEED Silver certification for Sustainable Construction Practices, Furnishings and Equipment.

"We are honored to be awarded LEED Platinum for the Summit building,” says SCC President & CEO Jeff Blosser. “The Center holds itself to high standards across its campus, and this certification recognizes the incredible measures we’ve undertaken to ensure our energy efficiency, water saving, transportation options, and broader systems in Summit operate in accordance with our environmental stewardship goals and provide our guests with a healthy, comfortable place to meet."

VisitLEX debuts Interstellar Tourism Campaign

Jan. 3, 2023—VisitLEX, the Lexington, Kentucky Convention and Visitors Bureau, teamed up with a team of Lexington scientists and scholars to use an infrared laser to beam an FAA-approved coded message pointed at a solar system 40 light years away reading, "Hey, Aliens! Look at Lexington." The message was created by tourism officials along with experts in linguistics, engineering, astrobiology and SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence). It included a coded bitmap image with clues to the message's origin and intent, as well as photos of Lexington and an audio recording from blues musician Tee Dee Young.

The solar system receiving the message is 235 million miles away, so if aliens there were to receive it and choose to travel to Lexington, they would arrive in 2103. At the Lexington Visitor Center, people can leave a postcard in a time capsule, and the VisitLEX website also includes a space to leave digital greetings.

Visit Anaheim Will Host IPW 2030

Dec. 22, 2023—Visit Anaheim has announced in a press release that the city has been chosen by the U.S. Travel Association to host the 2030 IPW, the nation's leading international inbound travel trade show. Plan ahead and mark your calendars to attend IPW in the Southern California city of Anaheim from June 1-5, 2030.

" At IPW, nearly 100,000 appointments take place. It is a proven, cost-effective means to grow your international leisure travel business—no other trade show can offer the quality, contacts and access of IPW." - IPW website

Hospitality Network Invests in Upgrades to Fort Worth Convention Center's Wi-Fi and Expansion

Dec. 21, 2023—Hospitality Network (HN), a Cox Business company and the telecommunications provider for Fort Worth Convention Center (FWCC), has announced its $895,000 investment that will be put towards upgrading FWCC's Wi-Fi networks just as construction begins on the convention center's expansion. HN and FWCC have been partnered since 2022. The partnership has aimed to elevate the guest experience through providing reliable connectivity and flexible technology pricing, aided by the City of Fort Worth's investment of $317,000 in optical fiber. HN has led upgrades to 100 existing Wi-Fi access points across FWCC.

HN will now add 120 new access points and lead the effort to increase bandwidth from 500 Mbps to 2 Gbps to provide faster, more reliable internet access that will support livestreams, remote presentations and event-specific apps.

AREA15 Begins 20-Acre Expansion

Dec. 21, 2023—Immersive art and entertainment district, AREA15, only moments from the Las Vegas Strip, has announced that it has begun construction to add 20 acres to the site's north, along Interstate 15. AREA15's main building complex is known for its immersive experiences, such as Meow Wolf's Omega Mart and Five Iron Golf.

The district expansion will offer a new year-round horror entertainment experience, Horror Unleashed, as well as indoor skydiving, spearheaded by Universal Destinations & Experiences. Alongside these experiences will be 450,000 sq. ft. of retail  and food and beverage space. Over 85,000 sq. ft. will be dedicated to pop-ups and outdoor experiences. In the coming year, AREA15 will announce additional partnerships and tenants.

"Consumers continue to gravitate toward artful new forms of entertainment providing immersive experiences, authentic connections and real emotions," says CEO of AREA15 Winston Fisher. "The demand continues to grow, and we are ready to dive in to this substantial expansion and find more partnerships that will have a lasting impact on the AREA15 District and the City of Las Vegas."

IACC and Kampfire Partner to Reshape Audience Engagement

Dec. 21, 2023—The International Association of Conference Centers (IACC) and Kampfire, an attendee engagement web app based on AI-generated personalized event content, have announced a strategic partnership to implement Kampfire's system to reinvent audience engagement and the conference attendee experience. Kampfire's system matches personalized content to attendees while keeping attendee privacy intact, and IACC is committed to using it to enhance the conference and event experience.

Kampfire CEO Asaf Shuster says, "Our innovative AI-driven platform, designed to curate personalized experiences, perfectly complements IACC's vision of delivering exceptional meeting experiences."

Mark Cooper, CEO of IACC, says, "We are thrilled to join forces with Kampfire to bring a new level of engagement to our conferences. This collaboration aligns with our mission to continually enhance the value we provide to our members and the entire business event community."

Jamaica Tourism Industry Sees Record-Breaking Recovery and Growth

Dec. 18, 2023—The Honorable Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica's Minister of Tourism, has announced that the island is set to record 4.1 million visitors and USD $4.265 billion in earnings for 2023, during an update on the sector in the House of Representatives on Dec. 12, 2023. Jamaica's tourism industry has experienced a robust growth trajectory in visitor arrivals and tourism earnings throughout the past year, and the Bartlett expressed that these trends seem set to continue throughout 2024. "This continues the spectacular growth pattern of tourism, with 10 consecutive quarters of substantial growth since the COVID-19 pandemic," he says. "Based on arrival figures to date, all indications are that we will be having an 11th quarter of significant expansion."

The expected generation of USD $4.265 billion for 2023 is an increase of 17.8% from 2022, and an increase of 17.2% from 2019 pre-pandemic levels. These earnings come from a combination of the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) fees, Departure Tax, Airport Improvement Fee, Airline Passenger Levy, Passenger fees and charges and the Guest Accommodation Room Tax (GART). Bartlett also expressed gratitude for the contributions of all tourism stakeholders for their success, including tourism workers, the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) and other local and international partners. The Ministry, its public bodies and all tourism partners, he expressed, are committed to fostering sustainable growth and resilience for Jamaica in order to maintain its position as a premier travel destination.

PCMA Announces 2024 PCMA Visionary Awards Lifetime Achievement Honorees and Professional Excellence Finalists

Dec. 18, 2023—PCMA's annual Visionary Awards were established to honor outstanding professionals in the business events industry. The company has announced the recipients of the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award and the Professional Excellence finalists. This years ceremony to celebrate the 2024 recipients will be held Thurs. April 11,  2024, during Business Events Industry Week at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington D.C.

The 2024 Lifetime Achievement Honorees are:

• Stuart Levy, Associate Professor of Management, George Washington University
• Greg O'Dell, President, Venue Management, OVG360
• Elizabeth Tovar, President, Turenlaces
• Butch Spyridon, Former CEO, Nashville Convention and Visitors Corp (NCVC)

At the ceremony, 21 Professional Excellence finalists across seven categories will also be recognized and honored, and the recipient for each award category will be announced. The categories and finalists are:

Business Event Strategist of the Year

• Matthew Wales, CMP, CAE, Vice President, Event Services, American Trucking Associations
• Stuart Ruff-Lyon, Chief Events and Sales Officer, RIMS
• Anh Nguyen, Principal, Spark Event Management Inc.

Community Advocate of the Year

• Dr. Michael Time, CEO, TIME TALKS
• Anna Williams, Director, DMC Network
• Dana Johnston, Director, Corporate Strategic Partnerships, American Gastroenterological Association

Digital Experience Strategist of the Year

• Shawn (Yih-Hsiang) Cheng, Co-Founder, #EventProfsBreakShit
• Emily Stephens, CMP, DES, Meetings & Special Projects Manager, American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians
• Sara Stehle, CAE, CMP, Owner, Independent Planner, Wow Moments Experience & Event Design

Event Designer of the Year

• David Hidalgo Ayala, CEO & Co-Founder, Tree Alliance
• Jasmine and Tyra Dyson, Founders, The Brand Xperience, Boss Up Girl Co.
• Kathy Lovato, Director of Scientific Meetings and Events, American Physiological Society

Groundbreaker

• Robin Troutman, Interim Executive Director, National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
• Beth Surmont, FASAE, CMP Fellow, CAE, Vice President of Business Event Strategy & design, 360 Live Media
• Rory Archibald, Senior Business Events Manager, Visit Scotland

Outstanding Service to a Chapter or Region

• Marcus Eng, CMP Fellow, DES, Director, Meeting Operations and Technology, American Public Transportation Association (Capital Chapter)
• Jimmy Le, Event Program Manager, IEEE Communications Society (New York Chapter)
• Shelby Candrea, CMP, Meetings Manager, ASTM International (Greater Philadelphia Chapter)

Supplier of the Year

• Eric Kincaid, Vice President, Sales, Choose Chicago
• Doug Bennett, Executive Vice President, Louisville Tourism
• Yurii Land, CMP, Senior Strategic Account Director, Maritz

ASAE Invests in Research on "The Power of Associations"

Dec. 18, 2023—The ASAE (American Society of Association Executives) Board of Directors recently approved a strategic investment to conduct quantitative research on "The Power of Associations." Research will include national-, state- and congressional district-specific data on associations' impact as employers and economic drivers through meetings and events. This research is intended to help ASAE and the broader association community with data that will support the economic impact of associations. Oxford Economics company, Tourism Economics, will be ASAE's partner in this initiative.

At the upcoming ASAE Congressional Fly-In, taking place Mar. 5-6, 2024, the company plans to have significant findings to share; it plans to release additional findings during the 2024 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition, Aug. 10-13, 2024. The company plans to release yearly updates to data shared with Capitol Hill and other audiences upon the completion of this research initiative.

Hot Springs Connection Conference Will Be Held at Newly Opened Murrieta Hot Springs Resort

Dec. 15, 2023—From Jan. 8-11, 2024, the fifth annual Hot Springs Connection Conference will be held at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort nearly a month prior to its official opening. As the official conference of the Hot Springs Association, it is a space for hot spring resort and spa professionals to come together an elevate one another. Murrieta Hot Springs Resort's highly-anticipated debut marks the reopening of a historic hospitality space formerly closed to the public. It will offer 23,536 sq. ft. of meeting space.

Destinations International Announces Milestone Global Expansion

Dec. 14, 2023—As the year comes to a close, Destinations International (DI) celebrates its considerable global expansion over 2023, with the addition of 107 new member organizations. The company's global reach now spans 30 countries and territories and totals 720 destination members around the world.

"The roles of destination organizations have never been more vital for their communities and our global community of over 7,500 industry professionals are able to utilize a dynamic platform for destination member teams to connect and promote best practices," says DI President and CEO Don Welsh.

DI board chair and President and CEO of New York City Tourism + Conventions Fred Dixon says, "Our global membership base allows destination leaders to collaborate, share insights and collectively enrich the lives of those who live, work and travel within their destinations. The power of travel unites us."

The news was announced during DI's board meeting on Dec. 13, 2023, in Tampa, Florida.

Cathay Pacific Brings First-Class Service Back to New York

Dec. 14, 2023—Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong's home airline, a division of travel lifestyle brand Cathay, has announced that it will recommence first-class service in flights between Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) beginning on Mar. 31, 2024. The first-class experience will include a range of upgraded amenities such as spacious and comfortable private suites, a reimagined dining service, complimentary Wi-Fi and enhanced in-flight entertainment system. A partnership with organic brand Bamford provides sleep amenity kits, natural skincare products, sustainably-sourced luxury bedding and a selection of pillows, and flights will also offer a turndown service.

Flights depart from JFK at 2:55pm and arrive at HKG at 6:55pm the following day; flights departing HKG will leave at 9:05am and arrive in JFK at 1:15pm on the same day. This upgraded first-class experience aims to further the airline's commitment to the North American market and offer an exceptional long-haul flight experience for those traveling between the two major destinations.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Finally Opens Its Doors

[caption id="attachment_157358" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] Fontainebleau Las Vegas' grand opening celebration on Dec. 13, 2023. Photo: David Becker/Getty Images[/caption]

Dec. 14, 2023—After nearly 20 years of anticipation, Fontainebleau Las Vegas has become a reality, kicking off a ribbon cutting Dec. 13 followed by a day of celebration on the property attended by Las Vegas executives, local government officials, community dignitaries, and A-list celebrities, from musicians to actors.

Fontainebleau Development Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Soffer joined Clark County Commissioner Tick Segerblom on stage to receive the Key to The Strip, declaring Dec. 13 “Fontainebleau Las Vegas Day.”

“Welcome to the Fontainebleau Las Vegas era,” Soffer said. “Today, we open our doors to the world, and welcome our first guests to experience the pinnacle of luxury hospitality. It’s fitting that Las Vegas is a city of dreams and possibilities, as this resort stands as a symbol of perseverance, our unwavering commitment to excellence, and our belief in the transformative power of genuine, world-class hospitality.”

The 3,644-room property opened to the public just before midnight on Dec. 13.

Cypress Planning Group Acquires Vicki Johnson & Associates and Johnson's Retirement

Dec. 12, 2023—Leading independent meeting services and hospitality group Cypress Planning Group has announced its acquisition of D.C.-based national conference and event planning firm Vicki Johnson & Associates. Vicki Johnson celebrates her retirement, saying, "I look forward to this next stage in my life, knowing that the level of care for our clients and team will be sustained." Johnson's career has spanned over four decades, and throughout she has developed a reputation of professionalism, loyalty and excellence.

Both Cypress Planning Group and Vicki Johnson & Associates are woman-owned firms known for their client-centric philosophy and esteemed industry knowledge. Cypress Planning Group's acquisition of Vicki Johnson & Associates expands their geographical footprint, talented team and ability to deliver incredible experiences for its clients around the country. Johnson has committed to remain involved with the integration of the team at Cypress Planning Group throughout the next year to operate a seamless transition.

Freeman Announces CEO Succession Plan

Dec. 11, 2023—Global event leader Freeman has announced that upon its current CEO, Bob Priest-Heck's, retirement in 2024, he will be succeeded by the company's president, Janet Dell. Priest-Heck has served the company for 15 years, and upon his retirement, will continue to sit on the Board of Directors. Dell joined Freeman in 2018 and has been instrumental in reshaping the company's workforce and amplifying productivity coming out of the pandemic.

Priest-Heck says, "[Dell] has instilled a data-driven approach to decision-making, cultivated an integrated operating model to drive better cross-team collaboration and customer experience and made meaningful strides to expand and diversify our workforce. Janet's leadership and compassion are unmatched, and I look forward to seeing her lead Freeman in this exciting and dynamic time for the company and the events industry at large."

Biden Administration Approves $6 billion for Two California Rail Projects

Dec. 6, 2023—The Biden Administration has awarded $6 billion in funding via the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to the California High-Speed Rail Authority for the state’s high-speed rail project in the Central Valley and to create a connection between California and Southern Nevada. This is the largest grant the Authority has ever received.

Funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes a $3.07 investment for a 171-mile route connecting Merced to Bakersfield, expected to be in operation between 2030 and 2033 and will be the world’s first solar-powered high-speed rail line. The project’s end goal is to connect San Francisco to Los Angeles via high-speed rail.

Additionally, $3 billion has been granted to the 218-mile Brightline West project from Las Vegas to Southern California, scheduled to begin operation by the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

“The dream of American high-speed rail is about to become reality,” said U.S. High Speed Rail Coalition Co-Chair Ray LaHood. “We greatly appreciate the commitment of the Biden Administration, our Coalition members and many others who have worked hard to spark America’s high-speed rail revolution.”

Omni Hotels & Resorts and Groups360 Expand Instant Group Booking

Dec. 5, 2023—Today, Omni Hotels & Resorts and Groups360, a company that offers planners simple group booking with their integrated technology solution GroupSync, announced the expansion of GroupSync Instant booking at all Omni properties across the U.S. and Canada. With this expansion, event organizers can book 10-25 guest rooms for groups directly online in a single transaction. Automation and direct data integration provide real-time group rates and room availability, simplifying a formerly complex and time-consuming process. Group travel organizers and planners can sign up for a free Groups360 account on groupsync.com.

Alaska Airlines Plans to Buy Hawaiian Airlines in a $1.9 Billion Deal

Dec. 4, 2023—On Sunday, Dec. 3, Alaska Airlines announced an agreement to buy Hawaiian Airlines in a $1.9 billion deal, in cash and stock. The companies agreed that Alaska will pay $18 per each share of Hawaiian Airlines, after the latter company's stock closed the Friday prior at $4.36, and had earlier lost over half its value throughout the year.

The deal is still subject to approval by federal regulators, but officials from both companies maintain that it would create a stronger company, as Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines have few overlapping routes.

Notably, this merger would maintain each airline's individual brands, unusual for a merger of this kind. Though the brands of each airline would remain the same, both would be integrated into one operating platform. The merger would also expand flights between Honolulu and a number of continental U.S. as well as international locations.

VISIT DENVER Achieves EIC's Sustainability Event Standards Certification

Nov. 28, 2023—VISIT DENVER is the first destination to achieve PLATINUM Level certification to the Events Industry Council (EIC) Sustainable Event Standards.

The EIC Sustainable Event Standards are a collection of eight specific standards for advancing environmental and social responsibility in the events industry, with four levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Destination is one of the eight standards. They were created by the EIC Sustainability Committee in partnership with industry professionals and sustainability leaders. The standards assess performance criteria in the areas of organizational management, marketing, communications and engagement, climate action, water management, materials and circularity, supply chain management, diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and social impact.

Incentive Research Foundation Elects Officers for 2024

Nov. 28, 2023—The Incentive Research Foundation (IRF), which funds and promotes scientific research, awareness and application of motivation and incentives in global business and industries, has announced appointments to its 2024 Executive Committee and Board of Trustees. The term will begin Jan. 1, 2024. The Board of Trustees represents a cross section of the incentives, rewards and recognition industry, and works to further IRF's mission to advance research and education that illuminate the power of incentive and motivational programs.

Appointments to the IRF Executive Committee are:

• Chair: Susan Adams, Vice President, Engagement Strategy & Corporate Services, Next Level Performance
• Chair Elect: Morgan Crain, Senior Program Manager, Reward and Recognition, Rubrik
• Treasurer & Secretary: Chris Johnson, Director - Global Travel, Enterprise Events, and Sports Partnerships, Land O’Lakes
• Member at Large: Kelsey Nicol, Director of Business Development, North America, Mutika, an Experience Management Company
• Immediate Past Chair: Mark Alt, Vice President, Maritz

Appointments to The Board of Trustees are:

• Cosimo Bruzzese, Vice President of Business Development, Global Sales, PRA
• Min Choi, Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, Germania Insurance
• Karen Devine, CEO & Founder, 3D Cruise Partners
• Rudy Garza, Vice President of Operations, Brightspot Incentives & Events 
• David Gould, Managing Director, Europe, 360 Insights
• Sarah Haines, Senior Vice President Event Management, ITA Group
• Rutger Hoorn, Vice President, Global Sales & Strategic Partnerships, Ovation Global DMC
• Patricia Kerr, AVP, Meeting & Event Management, Nationwide
• Jennifer O’Mara, Account Director, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
• Lynn Randall, Randall Insights
• Amy Rippelmeyer, Global Luxury Account Executive, Marriott International Luxury Brands
• Richelle (Taylor) Suver, Chief Revenue Officer, One10
• Bich-Lien Kaldahl will continue to serve as Airline Advisor to the Board of Trustees

President Bill Clinton and 67th Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton Will Speak at PCMA Convening Leaders 2024

Nov. 20, 2023—At PCMA's flagship education and networking event Convening Leaders 2024, which will take place at the San Diego Convention Center from January 7-10, 2024, President Bill Clinton and 67th Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will open day two, January 9, in a morning session conversation. They will deliver an exploration of leadership, international relations, the global economy and the important role meetings and events play in supporting the free exchange of ideas and democracy.

PCMA and CEMA President and CEO Sherrif Karamat, CAE, says, "Over the years, PCMA has had the pleasure to welcome many incredible speakers for convening leaders. I am absolutely delighted to welcome President Clinton and Secretary Clinton with a platform to share their reflections on pivotal moments in history, discuss pressing global challenges and illustrate the path towards an inclusive, sustainable future for all."

EIC Opens Registration for CMP Advance 2024

Nov. 20, 2023—The Events Industry Council (EIC) has opened registration for the CMP Advance 2024, a two-day networking and learning event that will be held at Fairmont Royal York in Toronto, Canada from March 11-13.

The event, centered around the CMP Domains organized within EIC's pillars of People, Planet and Purpose, is open exclusively to CMPs. There, attendees will take part in peer-to-peer learning, impactful learning sessions on how to deliver tangible take-home value at events and see keynote speeches from industry innovators. By attending CMP Advance, attendees can earn CE credits towards their recertification.

"CMP Advance brings together visionary leaders and professionals who are passionate about our industry, our future and the economic and social impact spurred by events worldwide," says EIC CEO Amy Calvert. "This is an important annual opportunity for the CMP community to meet, connect and continue their professional growth journey."

Omni Hotels & Resorts Enhances Select Guest Loyalty Program

Nov. 16, 2023—Omni Hotels & Resorts has announced a 2024 relaunch of their Select Guest Loyalty Program with numerous enhancements aimed to help guests achieve and retain Select Guest Status more quickly and easily. Select Guests already earn rewards, or Omni Credits for each night of their stay, and earn a free night at any Omni property for 100 Omni Credits. In addition to earning rewards for each night of their stay, loyalty members will now also earn rewards every time they dine at an on-site restaurant, play a round of golf, visit the spa, or charge select items to their room.

The relaunch also introduces a redesigned tier system, progressing from Member, to Insider, to Champion, to Icon Status. Each subsequent tier offers increasing levels of recognition, benefits and free nights. Select guest status will be determined by a member's on-property spend accumulated each calendar year. The Status tier a member achieves by the end of 2023 will be honored for 2024.

AHLA Survey Shows Positive Trends for Hotels, and Fuels Calls for Congressional Measures to Help Hire More Workers

Nov. 16, 2023—In September, a survey of 4,006 U.S. adults, commissioned by AHLA and conducted by Morning Consult, showed numerous conclusions that hotels are seeing business on the rise. 81% of those surveyed say that hotels are their top lodging choice. 55% of respondents who expect to travel for leisure during the last three months of 2023 plan to say in a hotel, and 68% of respondents whose jobs involve travel say that they are likely to travel overnight for business during the last three months of 2023—a 9% rise from 2022. 45% of those surveyed say they are more likely to stay in a hotel this year in comparison to last year.

All of these responses show rising business for hotels, following some years of pandemic turmoil. 71% of respondents say that their likelihood of staying in a hotel today is the same as prior to the pandemic.

As hotel business returns to, and in some cases surpasses, pre-pandemic levels, the industry's labor levels do not match this rise. Indeed shows there are nearly 85,000 open hotel jobs across the nation. In September, the national average hotel wages were $23.60/hour, and since the pandemic, hotel wages have increased at a rate of +24.6%, in comparison to a rise of +18.8% for average wages throughout the general economy.

AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers says that there are a number of steps Congress can take to address workforce challenges, including establishing an H-2B returning worker exemption, passing the Asylum Seeker Work Authorization Act and passing the H-2 Improvements to Relieve Employers (HIRE) Act. "Hotels are going above and beyond to take excellent care of guests as travel approaches pre-COVID levels, and this survey underscores that," he says. "To continue growing, [U.S. hotels] need to hire more people, but a national shortage of workers is preventing hotels from regaining all the jobs we lost to the pandemic."

Walt Disney World Resort Fiscal Year 2022 Shows Major Economic Impact

Nov. 14, 2023—According to a new study recently announced by Oxford Economics, Walt Disney World Resort generated $40 billion in economic impact across its home state of Florida and over 25 million jobs in fiscal year 2022.

As one of the world's most visited vacation destinations, its not shocking that Disney makes a massive contribution to Florida's overall economy and tourism and small business sectors. When the numbers are broken down, the real impact comes to light. Walt Disney World Resort's workforce holds one out of every 32 jobs in the state. It also generated $6.6 billion in tax revenue, including $3.1 billion in annual state and local tax revenue. This revenue benefits local schools, public safety, law enforcement, parks, roadways and more throughout Central Florida. And over 8,500 small businesses across the country are contracted by The Walt Disney Company to supply products and services to Walt Disney World, including 2,500 based in Florida.

President of Walt Disney World Resort Jeff Vahle says, "The numbers speak for themselves on why Disney is so important to fueling jobs, the economy and tourism throughout our region, and the future investments we're looking to make will continue to provide even more opportunities for Floridians."

 

AIME 2024 Knowledge Program Theme Addresses "The 4Ps of GLOCALISATION"

Nov. 14, 2023—The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) gears up for its 2024 event, which will be hosted at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Center (MCEC) in Australia from Feb. 19 to 21, 2024. AIME has announced details of its Knowledge Program, based on this year's theme of "The 4Ps of GLOCALISATION," which is inspired by the AIME global community's goal of increasing harmony between global insights and local nuances. These 4 P's are People, Planet, Purpose and Profit.

Attendees will attend breakout sessions throughout the event to learn about aligning a "glocalisation" mindset with the 4 P's to achieve deeper brand engagement and sustainable business success. At the event, The Ideas Academy will serve as an intimate space for short, thought-provoking panel discussions and sessions, and will run continuously on Tuesday, Feb. 20 and Wednesday, Feb. 21.

The Knowledge Program will launch on the first day of the event and will be hosted by BEAM Founder and Chief Engager and 2024 AIMEbassador El Kwang. AIME's speaker bureau partners Saxton Speakers Bureau and ICMI Speakers and Entertainers will be joined by two keynote speakers: Lisa Ronson, an award-winning marketing executive well-versed in building strong consumer brands, leading high-performance teams and growing retail sales and market share; and Sebastian Terry, bestselling author, TV host and founder of the 100 Things movement, who will share how people can integrate individual evolution with professional development.

Terry says, "To me, Glocalisation is the idea that the foundation to create a thriving and connected community is ensuring that we empower individuals and local teams to become the best version of themselves within a like-minded network."

Brightline's "Bright Friday" Offers Ease Amidst High AAA Thanksgiving Travel Forecast

Nov. 14, 2023—On Monday, AAA released their annual Thanksgiving Travel Forecast which showed that Florida highways and airports will be the busiest in the nation. In metro areas, travel time is expected to take 80% longer than normal.

However, the new intercity rail servicing Florida cities, Brightline, offers a "Bright Friday" package that can make Thanksgiving travel far easier for those who choose to travel around the holiday. The report's top three domestic holiday travel destinations, Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Miami, are all connected by Brightline.

The "Bright Friday" deals offer one-way adult fares between Orlando and South Florida starting at $59, and child fares starting at $29 with the purchase of an adult ticket. On Thanksgiving day, travel fares between Orlando and South Florida will remain at a flat rate of $39 for adults and starting at $19 for children. Customers can book round trip travel under this deal by booking each trip separately. The "Bright Friday" deal is available for booking from now until Nov. 27, for travel from now until Feb. 29, 2024.

One10 and Cedara Partner to Support Sustainability and a Path to Net Zero

Nov. 14, 2023—Leader in enterprise-level performance improvement solutions through travel, events experiential and marketing services, One10 has announced a strategic partnership with carbon intelligence platform Cedara. This collaboration aims to power One10's path to net zero through addressing accurate carbon measurement and implementing reduction strategies. Cedara supports the industry initiative Ad Net Zero, which places reducing emissions from events as one of its key actions.

The partnership with Cedara allows One10 to comprehensively map its corporate carbon footprint and verify its GHG (greenhouse gas) inventory with KERAMIDA, a CDP Gold Accredited Solutions Provider.

CEO of One10 Bob Miller says, "This partnership will enable us to provide our clients with a comprehensive understanding of the carbon footprint associated with their event, empowering them to take meaningful steps towards a greener future."

CEO and Co-Founder of Cedara David Shaw says, "One10 has a large presence in travel and events management, and we are delighted that they chose Cedara to help reduce their emissions and make their events more environmentally friendly.

"This partnership exemplifies One10's commitment towards sustainability not only across travel and events, but also their incentives & recognition and marketing services solutions. We look forward to working with One10 to make a positive impact on the planet."

With the help of Cedara's carbon measurement and reduction solutions, One10 clients will have the ability to reduce their environmental impact, enhance their corporate social responsibility profiles and engage with sustainability-minded stakeholders.

Concord Hospitality joins Feed the Children to Deliver Meals Across North America

Nov. 13, 2023 — Employees from Concord Hospitality hotels all over the country joined together on their 15th annual "Share Day" to donate 6,000 volunteer hours and 235,800 meals to those in need through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program and its partnership with Feed the Children. In addition, NBA hall of famer Earvin "Magic" Johnson was also a contributor. This collaboration resulted in 3,200 families receiving meals by the end of last weekend.

"With a culture built on quality, integrity, community, profitability and fun, Concord strives to exercise its core values through our annual share Dar providing our team members with the opportunity to give back in the communities where they live and work," says Debra Punke, chief human resources officer.

Culinary and Bartenders Union Reach Tentative Deal with MGM Resorts International

Nov. 9, 2023—After nearly seven months of negotiations, the Culinary Union and Bartenders Unions have announced a tentative agreement for a new five-year contract with MGM International just 24 hours before the strike deadline. Culinary and Bartenders Union members will now no longer be striking on Nov. 10, 2023, as previously announced.

Over 24,000 of MGM Resorts International employees in Las Vegas, at eight MGM International Resorts casino resorts, including Aria, Bellagio, Luxor, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, New York-New York and Park MGM, would receive the largest wage increases ever negotiated in the history of the Culinary Union. In addition, guest room attendants would receive workload reductions and mandated daily room cleaning. Other negotiated benefits include increased safety protections for workers on the job, expanded technology contract language, extended recall rights and the right for unionized workers to support non-unionized restaurant workers seeking to unionize.

Further details are not yet available to allow unionized workers to first vote on whether or not to accept the contract. The membership will soon hold a ratification vote, the exact date of which is yet to be determined.

EIC Announces CMP Scholarships

Nov. 8, 2023—The Events Industry Council (EIC) just last week announced a new scholarship program to support industry professionals seeking to earn the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation. This designation is globally recognized as a badge of excellence for leading event professionals. Come January 2024, EIC will award five scholarships. Four types of scholarships will be offered: the CMP Scholarship, the CMP-HC Scholarship, the CMP Recertification Scholarship and the CMP-HC Recertification Scholarship.

Applications will be accepted until Dec. 1, 2023. Applicants are required to have received confirmation of eligibility to sit for the CMP or be recertified before applying. Each applicant must fill out an online application and submit a 1,000 word essay and one letter of recommendation. Applicants must also submit proof of eligibility, details of which are included on the scholarship information page under the FAQs, separated by the different scholarships offered for the CMP, the CMP-HC and recertification. Three CMP Governance Commission members will then grade applications through a blind review.

The CMP scholarship award will cover the application fee, exam fee and study books, and the CMP-HC scholarship will cover the CMP-HC application fee and exam fee. Awardees must take the exam within one year of approval notification.

Albany Convention Center Authority Releases Economic Impact Report

Nov. 8, 2023—The Albany Convention Center Authority (ACCA) releases the latest statistical findings in the economic impact of events hosted at the Albany Capital Center (ACC). The report showed a track record of achievement and a successful rise in attendee numbers, volume of events, revenue generation and more following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Since its opening in March 2017, the Albany Capital Center has hostel 928 events, which together generated spending over $77 million, with $8 million sales tax generated between New York State and Albany County. The organization also made clear its commitment to equal opportunity employment, reporting a combined 58% participation of women and people of minority groups in its workforce.

General Manager of the Albany Capital Center, Shannon Licygiewicz, says, "Since we opened our doors, it has become clear that the ACC fills a pivotal role in our community and makes critical contributions to Albany's economic development...It is a great privilege for me to lead this talented team into a new era, where we will continue to deliver events that captivate our attendees and provide high-quality facility management services from ASM Global that consistently surpass expectations."

ACVB Organizes Thanksgiving Food Drive to Support Atlanta Center for Self Sufficiency

Nov. 8, 2023—The staff at the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau (ACVB) recently organized a Thanksgiving food drive to support Atlanta Center for Self Sufficiency (ACSS). The ACSS empowers men and women who have experience homelessness and financial vulnerability through workforce readiness training, job placement and life stabilization services.

New Orleans & Company Musician Database Officially Launches

Nov. 8, 2023—The official tourism and hospitality destination sales, marketing and trade organization for the city of New Orleans, New Orleans & Company, has partnered with globally-acclaimed music platform WWOZ to officially launch the New Orleans & Company Musician Database. The database debuted on Nov. 7, 2023, and provides an online compendium of over 200 New Orleans musicians.

Event organizers seeking live music and talented musicians for their New Orleans events now have access to a comprehensive resource where they can see bios, images, Spotify playlists, live performance schedules and personal URLs of these local musicians. The database will continue to evolve, welcoming new artists as they enter the New Orleans music scene. Planners can stay up-to-date with information about local artists as they organize events and feature these musicians.

Hyatt Centric Buckhead Atlanta Announces Partnership with CorePower Yoga

Nov. 6, 2023—Hyatt Centric Buckhead Atlanta has announced a new partnership with CorePower Yoga in order to improve the wellness experience for guests at small meetings and events. Beginning in November and running through March, Hyatt Centric Buckhead with offer "Mindful Meditation" as an exclusive add-on.

"This collaboration with CorePower Yoga perfectly aligns with the mindfulness ethos that defines Hyatt Centric Buckhead Atlanta. We are thrilled to expand our partnership with CorePower Yoga, providing guests a rejuvenating and relaxing experience during their meetings, even during the winter," said Devraj Gorsia, General Manager of Hyatt Centric Buckhead Atlanta.

The guided sessions, that last between 15 and 30 minutes, offer guests postures for stretching and controlled breathing.

Frontier Airlines Releases 2022 Environmental, Social and Governance Report

Oct. 31, 2023—Frontier Airlines released its Environmental, Social and Governance Report for 2022 today, which demonstrates their continued commitment to environmental stewardship, team-member diversity and well-being, community engagement and governance.

The report showed that they conserved an estimate of 135 million gallons of fuel in 2022 by operating the youngest, most fuel-efficient fleet in North America, offering 102 available seat miles per gallon, installing 30% lighter Recaro seats and employing the latest engine technology in their Airbus A320neo family aircraft. They also are committed to purchasing millions of gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and transitioning to biodegradable in-flight products.

The report also shows their commitment creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment for employees and for customers. They have worked to provide an à la carte pricing model so customers can access affordable flights. They also are partnered with aviation industry employee advocacy groups, operate a management trainee program—which sees 80% female participation—alongside a pilot cadet program for young pilots, establish business resource groups to support their company's diversity and support crew members' choice to participate in unions or collective bargaining.

"We strive to be the most environmentally sustainable airline in North America, which has led us to our current position as 'America's Greenest Airline,'" says CEO of Frontier Airlines Barry Biffle. "Furthermore, at Frontier, we believe 'The Sky is for Everyone,' a philosophy that extends to both our customers and our team members. Throughout this inaugural report, we aim to capture many of the initiatives that demonstrate our commitment to the pillars of ESG."

GMCVB Annual Meeting Shows Strong Trend in Securing Meetings and Events

Oct. 30, 2023—At Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau's (GMCVB) annual meeting on Oct. 26, they shared how 2022/2023 fiscal year showed impressive success in securing meetings and conventions. From Oct. 2022 to Sept. 2023, the GMCVB sales team generated 3,280 leads for its hotel partners and a 56% surge in confirmed bookings. In the upcoming fiscal year, this trend is projected to continue with 446,000 room nights, which would be a 48% jump.

GMCVB President and CEO David Whitaker says, "We saw a resurgence of Greater Miami and Miami Beach as a top destination for conventions, securing an impressive 14 new major event bookings to convene at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Our marketing teams helped fuel substantial successes, including the launch of Find Your Miami and Miami Beach - Find Your Wave campaigns."

The annual meeting saw attendance of over 750 people who learned about these trends and more of GMCVB's many initiatives, including their continued commitment to a sustainable tourism industry.

Moscone Center Awarded LEED Platinum Certification

Oct. 27, 2023—Moscone Center in San Francisco, the city's convention center, has achieved LEED Platinum certification for Existing Building Operations and Maintenance. This is the highest level of LEED certification developed by the U.S. Green Buildings Council. This award also makes San Francisco the only city to have the most advanced LEED Platinum certification for both its convention center and airport.

San Francisco Airport achieved LEED Platinum certification in 2022. Moscone Center is managed by ASM Global and has long demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices and reduction of its carbon emissions per visitor.

“We have always centered sustainability in our operations and business practices, and LEED Platinum certification is a milestone achievement that demonstrates the success of these efforts,” said Ken Bukowski, Director of Convention Facilities for the City & County of San Francisco. “Sustainability is built into the fabric of San Francisco’s infrastructure and psyche, and with this certification we’re proud to carry on this commitment as we continue to lead the way toward a greener future.”

Next Phases of Maui Re-Opening Will Take Place November 1

Oct. 27, 2023—Mayor Richard Bissen announced on Monday that the phased re-opening of West Maui following the wildfires will resume on November 1 with a combination of phases two and three. This space will extend from Kahana to Ka'anapali. The first reopening phase began on October 8, extending from The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua to Kahana Villa. This phase system of re-opening was implemented to allow Maui residents time to return to work, reestablish needed childcare, provide for a deliberate housing needs project for the thousands in temporary shelter and more.

This decision arrives following extended discussions between the mayor's Lāhainā Advisory Team, the American Red Cross and other partners as well as feedback from the local community. The announcement signals a moment for businesses and workers to prepare for a return to business.

MC&A Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Oct. 26, 2023—MC&A is a world-renowned destination and event management company in the Hawaiian islands specializing in English-speaking MICE markets. Founded in 1983, the company celebrated its 40th anniversary this past September.

President and CEO Edward Kina says, our sense of purpose and unity grounds us, advancing together as a cohesive 'Ohana.'"

Over the past four decades, MC&A has established a reputation as a trusted expert destination management and event planning partner for everything from intimate corporate retreats to large conventions. In 2001, they expanded operations into the cruise business and remains the only company in Hawaii with a dedicated cruise ship department providing cruise ground services to major cruise lines and their partners. After 36 years of success in solely inbound Hawaii programming, in 2019, MC&A expanded to the U.S. mainland through a merger with DMC - Kuoni Destination Management USA.

MC&A plans to recognize this special anniversary by organizing a series of special events and community outreach throughout the year.

"With more than four decades in business, we firmly believe our roots are as significant as the path forward," says Kina. "Our continuous evolution is intrinsic to our corporate DNA, bound to our heritage as caretakers of the environment and our culture."

Resorts World Las Vegas Is Now Powered by 100% Renewable Energy

Oct. 25, 2023—Resorts World Las Vegas, in partnership with Nevada-based NV Energy, is now powered by 100% renewable energy sources, as part of its ongoing sustainability efforts.

Resorts World Las Vegas has implemented several sustainable practices to this point that has led to its achieving the LEED Gold and GBAC certifications. The property also houses the largest amount of EV chargers on The Strip.

"We are thrilled to have reached such an incredible milestone in our sustainability efforts after only two years of operation,” said Peter LaVoie, president of Resorts World Las Vegas. “The partnership with NV Energy has been integral in our efforts thus far and we look forward to continuing our commitment to our community and environment as we work to further implement impactful changes across the resort."

Alaska Airlines Announces New Nonstops for Summer 2024

Oct. 2023 — Alaska Airlines has made the decision to add nonstop flights weekly to San Diego and daily to New York starting in May, 2024 and June 2024 respectively. They are now available for purchase at alaskaair.com. Jillian Simpson, president and CEO of the Alaska Travel Industry Association, encourages New Yorkers and Southern Californians to take advantage of the incredible summer activities Alaska has to offer.

"Summer is an incredible time to visit Alaska with our warm, long days," says Simpson. "There's so much to do in Anchorage and in the smaller towns nearby."

According to the news release from Alaska Airlines, by mid-June they will be serving the following cities from Anchorage: Chicago, Denver, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, New York JFK, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco and Seattle.

ATL Airport District Celebrates Record-Breaking Success

Oct. 23, 2023 — The ATL Airport District is the destination marketing organization for the cities of College Park, Hapeville and Union City, Georgia. After three years, their annual meeting at the Georgia International Convention Center was one of triumph and success. The them was "Standing the Test of Time," and celebrated the District's milestones, especially their 10th anniversary as a functioning CVB. President of the ATL Airport District Cookie Smoak enthusiastically comments on the success and promising future.

"Through the highs, lows and unprecedented challenges brought by the pandemic, we have not only survived but have thrived, putting the ATL Airport District on the map as a prime destination for both business and leisure travelers," says Smoak. "Our partners and stakeholders have helped us shape the past decade and will undoubtedly pave the way for an even brighter future in the years ahead!"

GES Becomes Official Partner of Event Sustainability Live

Oct. 20, 2023 — With a shared focus on green events, Global Experience Specialists (GES) and Event Sustainability Live will be teaming up to implement sustainable business practices within the infrastructure of events. GES says they are focused on collaboration with other industry leaders and are excited about the partnership to continue their work in sustainability among the meetings and events industry.

“We are excited to align ourselves with an event that meets with so many of our sustainability credentials. The shows will provide us with a unique platform to not only share best practices, but learn from other industry experts. Sustainability has become such a crucial part of what we do, we’re delighted to be able to support an event that is dedicated to making advancements and educating our industry,” said David Langrish, Vice President Marketing, GTES EMEA.

Pendry Hotels & Resorts Creates New Holiday

Oct. 19, 2023 — With locations across the country, Pendry Hotels and Resorts is showing appreciation for their culinary programs by establishing the first annual Chefsgiving. The most renowned chefs will come together from cities such as San Diego, West Hollywood, Baltimore, Washington D.C. and more to create a multi-course family style dinner. The proceeds from tickets will be donated to local charities in the true spirit of Chefsgiving.

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas Plans for Convention Center Renovation

Oct. 19, 2023 — Already one of the largest convention centers in the world, The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is undergoing a $118 million renovation to continue their reputation of being one of the top venues for meetings and events in Las Vegas.

“Since inception, The Venetian Resort Las Vegas has led the landscape of meetings and conventions and remains at the forefront of this industry, so we’re thrilled to have this renovation elevate the property to yet another level to better serve our guests.” said Tony Yousfi, chief sales officer at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas.

The renovation is expected to be completed by 2026 and will include a speak-easy invitation only style bar for a modern take on an old school Venetian classic aesthetic. Patrick Nichols, president and chief executive officer of The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, explains the vision behind the renovation of The Venetian.

“The finishes and amenities planned were thoughtfully curated based on feedback from our customers and will usher in a new era of Venetian Meetings and maintain our position at the forefront of the industry.”

Japan Imposes Visitor Tax for Sustainable Tourism and Preservation

Oct. 18, 2023 — While Japan's hotels have already implemented taxes in their major tourism cities like Kyoto, taxes have extended to sight-seeing destinations such as Hatsukaichi. Home to the Itsukushima Shrine, one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, tourists will now be charged a tax in an effort to support local tourism, preserve the sanctity of the shrine and protect the region from over-tourism that has exploded once Covid-restrictions became more lenient.

“We are responsible for preserving nature, history and culture and passing them on to the next generations,” said Shunji Mukai, an official of the city’s planning and coordination division for Miyajima. “Without stable financial resources, we would face difficulties in surviving as a tourist destination."

Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Announces 2023 Give Back Holiday Program

Oct. 17, 2023—Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront has announced a give back program for the 2023 holiday season that includes donating food to those in need. The food will then be donated to the non-profit organization Clara White Mission in Jacksonville.

“As the holiday season is right around the corner, we’re thrilled to offer a specialty promotion, allowing planners to get a jumpstart on their holiday event planning while benefitting a great cause here in Jacksonville,” said Brittany Doyle, Regional Marketing Manager at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront.

The donations will be based on every carving station ordered for holiday events in 2023.

Virginia Beach Launches "Happiness is a Real Place" Campaign

Oct. 13, 2023—The Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau (VBCVB) has launched a new brand platform and marketing campaign, "Happiness is a Real Place." This new campaign aims to connect travelers with their own perfect version of happiness when they visit Virginia Beach.

Virginia Beach is already known for being home to the "world's longest pleasure beach," surf culture, natural amenities and an overall family-friendly destination. This campaign puts forward images and videos of visitors enjoying all of the destination's top amenities, from dining out, to exploring the beach, to taking in the cities natural sites and local art.

The campaign will debut this week in print and digital advertising, social media placements and 30- and 60-second broadcast segments. It will be accompanied by a pair of themed mini-campaigns on social channels: the "ViBe series, spotlighting art and culture with a vintage feel, and the "Cheat Meals" YouTube series, showing off Virginia Beach's local chefs, restauranteurs and culinary range.

Mesa, AZ is the First City in the World to Receive Wheel the World's Destination Verified Seal

Oct. 12, 2023—Wheel the World, an inclusive online booking platform for travelers with disabilities, makes Mesa, Arizona the first city worldwide to receive its Destination Verified Seal. This seal affirms a destination's accessibility through a comprehensive evaluation of all their local partners and the overall destination's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

Wheel the World sends trained mappers to assess destinations through data gathered via WebApp, Wheel the World's accessibility mapping system that amasses over 200 data points of accessibility-related information. That data then supplies travel service providers recommendations to enhance their infrastructure and access Wheel the World's e-learning platform to expand learners' knowledge of accessibility and disabilities.

Wheel the World Co-Founder and COO Camilo Navarro says, "This milestone not only demonstrates Mesa's unwavering commitment to inclusivity but also marks a significant step forward in our collective mission to make travel accessible to all."

Visit Mesa is dedicated to ensuring their location remains a leading inclusive and accessible travel destination. They have now partnered with Wheel the World to provide travelers to Mesa with advanced information on accessible experiences and itineraries personalized for their needs which can be accessed on both AccessibleMesa.com and WheeltheWorld.com

"For Mesa to achieve the Destination Verified Seal shows that we are dedicated to promoting inclusive travel and showcasing practices that embrace accessibility," says Alison Brooks, Vice President of Destination Experience and Advocacy at Visit Mesa. "Partnering with Wheel the World has provided us with education, resources and guidance that will ultimately help us with our mission towards becoming one of the most accessible destinations in the country. We look forward to adding more Mesa businesses to the Wheel the World marketplace thus providing more options to visitors of all abilities."

Greater Palm Springs Launches New Meetings Campaign

Oct. 11, 2023—Visit Greater Palm Springs (VGPS) has announced the launch of its new meetings campaign, "The Oasis is Real," to highlight their position as a unique, vibrant meetings destination. Ahead of IMEX America, they will deploy the new campaign across the VGPS e-newsletter, print ads, digital advertising, engaging content pieces and e-blasts.

The campaign aims to highlight the many diverse experiences available to a wide bracket of meetings and events. In Greater Palm Springs, attendees can enjoy a special blend of relaxation and productivity in a space that champions inclusion and welcoming hospitality.

"Greater Palm Springs is more than just a beautiful place to visit—it's a world-class destination with unforgettable experiences for every type of group," says Colleen Pace, VGPS Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. "From top-tier meeting facilities, award-winning hotels and resorts and exquisite dining options to endless outdoor event spaces like break-out sessions on a beach or an evening event with Coachella vibes—Greater Palm Springs isn't a meetings mirage...the oasis is real."

Coastal Alabama Will Host Parrot Heads in Paradise's 31st Annual Meeting of the Minds Convention

Oct. 11, 2023—From Oct 24-29, Jimmy Buffett music lovers and lifestyle loyalists (known as parrotheads) will flock to the Alabama Gulf Coast for Parrot Heads in Paradise's 31st Annual Meeting of the Minds convention. For 30 years, the convention has been hosted in Key West. Following Buffett's passing in September 2023, the convention will take on a special tone of remembrance in Buffett's own home region.

Along with a variety of concerts and social gatherings, the convention will offer breakout sessions, leadership growth opportunities and philanthropic efforts. The Skippin & Sippin 5k and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk will take place at Lucy Buffett's Lulu's on Saturday, Oct 28 to benefit show and toy drive Bras Across the Causeway. Lulu's will also host bloodmobiles for a blood drive.

Michelle Russ, Vice President of Sales, Sports and Events for Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Sports & Events, says, "This group knows how to throw a party with purpose, working to leave the destination better than when they arrived. Between the philanthropic events they are planning and the number of restaurants and venues they will be using, the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach will feel the economic life during an otherwise slower time in the destination."

Las Vegas Launches New Business Ad Campaign

Oct. 11, 2023—Las Vegas's newest business ad campaign, titled, "Not Invited," positions it as a location leading in creativity, optimism and ambition. The campaign features playful "un-invitations" to express the importance of innovation and visionary thinking in the meeting and events hub for corporate offsites and gatherings. Chief Sales Officer for the LVCVA Lisa Messina says, "This campaign captures how the unique energy of Las Vegas acts as the catalyst that drives innovation, change and engagement."

In addition to digital banners and a radio spot, the campaign has released two 30-second ads, "Not Invited" and "Offsite."

Messina says, "We regularly hear from leaders, planners and attendees that the opportunities to connect and inspire through the shared experiences that only Vegas can provide continues to drive their business forward and ultimately affects the bottom line."

InterContinental Hotels & Resorts Announces Global Brand Evolution

Oct. 11, 2023—IHG Hotels & Resorts is the world's largest international luxury hotel brand boasting a unique portfolio of 479 properties in over 70 countries, with 93 new hotels and resorts in the works. As part of their luxury and lifestyle portfolio, InterContinental Hotel & Resorts embarks on a global brand evolution. InterContinental maintains a brand dedicated to luxurious yet familiar stays in major destinations that expand travelers' minds and connect cultures.

This holistic evolution includes a wealth of new offerings and experiences, a fresh brand culture, unique brand differentiators and an invigorating food and beverage and hotel design strategy. "This isn't a rebrand or repositioning," says Vice President of Luxury Brands at IHG Hotels and Resorts Tom Rowntree. "Rather, it's a comprehensive transformation from start to finish of InterContinental, ensuring we stay at the forefront of crafting a luxury experience for the modern luxury traveler," .

Scientifically-backed food and beverage programs will help guests reduce travel fatigue and will reflect guests' changing needs throughout the day. Guests will also receive access to Timeshifter, a jet-lag app that helps familiarize them with the latest circadian science to quickly adjust to new time zones. Neuroscience-based designer Isabelle Sjövall is collaborating with their resorts to enhance physical spaces to include restorative processes to combat travel fatigue.

Their hotel lobbies will introduce Concierge Galleries which will bring interactive displays, library spaces, art installations and designer pop-ups to create natural and engaging interactions between the concierge and guests.

The Incredible Occasions program will introduce intimate bookable spaces around the hotels where guests can celebrate special moments privately, with an array of programming and packages, amenities, beautiful tablescapes and private masterclasses. It will also offer guests the opportunity to book reimagined, highly curated Celebration Suites.

Overall, this brand evolution aims to elevate InterContinental's quality design and style with the idea of Cultivated Elegance at its center. "At its core, this brand evolution revolves around our exceptional team members globally," says Rowntree. "Our colleague brand culture is grounded in InterContinental's core belief that travel expands the mind. We unite in diversity and wherever you are in the world, you belong at InterContinental."

Harrah’s Las Vegas Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Oct. 5, 2023—Harrah’s Las Vegas is celebrating its 50th year, and with this comes plenty of special prizes and offerings.

Since its creation in 1992, the Harrah’s brand now includes 18 resorts in the Caesars Entertainment portfolio. The property recently underwent renovations to its guest rooms and areas throughout its casino floor. This will be followed up by a multimillion revamp of its main entrance and porte-cochere, scheduled for completion later this year.

“For half a century, Harrah’s has provided visitors with a true Las Vegas experience featuring iconic names in entertainment and hospitality in the heart of The Strip,” said Dan Walsh, senior vice president and general manager of Harrah’s Las Vegas. “The 50th anniversary wouldn’t be possible without the loyalty of our guests, support from the community and dedicated service from our Team Members. We look forward to celebrating with our guests as Harrah’s continues to be a must-visit destination with renovated hotel rooms, a modernized casino floor and new food and beverage offerings such as Ramsay’s Kitchen and The Lounge.”

The anniversary specials include a social media sweepstakes, spa specials, entertainment and attractions specials, and F&B specials. Click here to for more information on these special offerings in celebration of Harrah’s 50th anniversary.

Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, NV, Announces $1 Billion Private Capital Investment

Oct. 2, 2023—Grand Sierra Resort, in Reno, Nevada, will receive the largest private capital investment in the city's history at $1 billion. Over the next decade, the 14-acre property will infuse the funding into a 300,000 sq. ft. arena with a capacity of over 10,000 seats to host events from concerts to basketball games and more. The resort will also invest in contemporary amenities including suites and premium hospitality clubs, as well as a comprehensive beautification of Grand Bay, where they will create a golf facility, entertainment destination, a scenic water path and a water show. Plans are also in the works for an 800-room hotel tower and one or more parking garages to accommodate the influx of guests these changes will bring. They will also construct approximately 300 affordable riverfront residences to support the growing workforce to support these new projects.

Owner of Grand Sierra Resort Alex Merulo also announced an exploration of a partnership with University of Nevada, Reno's president, Brian Sandoval, to potentially make the arena the university's men's basketball team home arena upon completion.

Reno Mayer Hillary Schieve says, "This is an incredible and historic investment by Mr. Merulo and a true game-changer for our community. It's a massive win for our citizens, a win for the University of Nevada and a win for tourism. Thank you, Mr. Merulo, for your vision and faith in our great community."

Tripleseat Acquires Attendease for Optimized Event Management Solutions

Oct. 2, 2023—Tripleseat, a leading innovator in cloud-based event management software for the hospitality industry, has acquired Attendease, a meeting and event software for enterprise and corporate event planners. This acquisition connects social and corporate event planners with event managers at restaurants and hotels to create a smooth planning process. The combined company will operate under the Tripleseat brand and will be managed by Tripleseat co-founder and CEO Jonathan Morse.

Event planners now have access to a one-of-a-kind integration and a seamless experience to find and book venues and plan their events.

"With this acquisition, we will expand our offerings with specialized and flexible event planning and management tools—for social and corporate event planners. Tripleseat will now be the one-stop shop for people to locate the perfect venue and manage and market their event," says Morse.

WTTC and Saudi Arabia Sign an MoU to Extend Partnership

Sept. 28, 2023—The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to extend their partnership at Saudi Arabia's World Tourism Day event in Riyadh, demonstrating Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhance its travel and tourism sector.

This agreement follow the success of last year's Global Summit in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia now commits $800 billion to put forward the opportunities their country offers to travelers around the world. The MoU, uniting private and public sectors in the effort to create growth, will help to advance the key objectives of job creation, talent development and global business opportunities in the travel and tourism industry. It will community empowerment and inclusion, elevate crisis preparedness and expand innovation, investment and the transition to a more sustainable travel and tourism sector.

Princess Haifa bint Mohammed Al Saud, Vice Minister of Tourism for Saudi Arabia said, “This collaboration highlights our commitment to fostering global business opportunities and talent development whilst underlining the vital role of public-private partnerships in shaping the future of Travel & Tourism.”

Freeman and 42Chat Collaborate to Launch AI Customer Service for Events

Sept. 28, 2023—Freeman, a global events organization, has partnered with conversational AI provider 42Chat. Together, they have introduced conversational AI chatbots that will support attendee engagement at trade shows and conferences. Freeman customers can access these chatbots online or through SMS before, during and after shows to get help in real time, for instances such as finding registration, locating an exhibit and more.

Executive Vice President of Audio Visual & Event Technology Operations at Freeman, Paul Fletcher, says, "42Chat's AI technology is scalable, privacy compliant, accurate and easy to deploy, which makes it a perfect partnership for us and our clients."

Meet Boston Launches Workforce Development and Supplier Diversity Initiatives

Sept. 27, 2023—Meet Boston, the CVB for the Boston area, has announced a partnership with management consulting firm Conan Harris and Associates (CHA) to launch a workforce development initiative and supplier diversity initiative. It aims to increase diversity, bolster employee retention and enhance procurement processes. The initiatives will be continually informed and guided by The Black Economic Council of MA (BECMA), Urban League, Amplify Latinx and the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.

The workforce development initiative will provide individuals with training opportunities to help them refine their skillsets and bridge the skills gap through local educational institutions, community organizations and industry partners. The supplier diversity initiative will expand Meet Boston's suppliers and work to include businesses owned by women, minorities, veterans and other marginalized groups. With this group of suppliers, Meet Boston aims to drive economic growth particularly in communities that have been historically underrepresented in the tourism and hospitality industries.

Executive Vice President of Meet Boston Hilina D. Ajakaiye says, "These initiatives are not just goals; they're a commitment to enhancing Boston's hospitality and tourism industry...[they] not only ensure exceptional experiences for visitors but also empower our diverse communities, promoting inclusivity, economic growth and a brighter future for every corner of our city."

Salt Lake City Will Host IITA Summit 2025

Sept. 27, 2023—The International Inbound Travel Association (IITA) Board of Directors has chosen Salt Lake City out of seven bidding destinations to host its 2025 Summit, taking place February 9-12. The Summit will bring together hundreds of travel organizations to organize US itineraries and travel services for international visitors.

Visit Salt Lake President and CEO Kaitlin Eskelson says, "Visit Salt Lake is honored to host IITA in 2025 and showcase Salt Lake and Utah to tour operators specializing in international markets as well as to our industry guests."

Hilton Salt Lake City Center submitted the winning big. Bids are evaluated based on the level of city and state support available, destination location and appeal, meeting staff and hotel rates along with numerous other variables. The Utah Office of Tourism, an active IITA member, has pledged its support.

CEO and Executive Director of IITA Lisa Simon says, "Salt Lake City is an attractive destination for international visitors, particularly outdoor enthusiasts, and Utah is one of the most beautiful places in the country with all of the national parks.

"We are thrilled to bring our group to Salt Lake in 2025 for our members—the leading U.S. inbound operators—to experience all the city and state have to offer."

Las Vegas Hospitality Workers Vote to Authorize a Strike Against Major Strip Resorts

Sept. 27, 2023—On Tuesday, September 26, members of the Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and the Bartenders Union Local 165, which together represent 60,000 Nevada workers and are affiliated with the union Unite Here, voted to authorize a strike against 22 casino resorts. The vote saw a 95% approval rate. This closely follows September 15, when contracts for around 40,000 Nevada hospitality workers, including housekeepers, bartenders, cooks and servers, expired after a June extension; others face continuing contracts that can be terminated at any time.

Since April, these workers have held negotiations with the resorts, demanding higher wages, more safety protections and stronger recall rates. The Nevada hospitality industry still waits to meet pre-pandemic employment and economic levels.

MGM Resorts released a statement that expressed positivity they could come to an agreement, saying, "We continue to have productive meetings with the union and believe both parties are committed to negotiating a contract that is good for everyone." Wynn Resorts and Caesars Entertainment have not released comments.

This vote does not mean a strike will take place; first come the contract negotiations.

It arrives on the eve of major upcoming sporting events, including Formula 1 with the Las Vegas Grand Prix in November, and the Super Bowl in February. The Las Vegas hospitality industry has long anticipated these events to provide a much-needed boost in their tourism economy.

Choose Chicago, PCMA and United Airlines Announce Apprenticeship in Partnership with Tourism Diversity Matters

Sept. 26, 2023—In an effort to lower barriers to a career in the hospitality industry, Choose Chicago has collaborated with PCMA and United Airlines, in partnership with Tourism Diversity Matters, to create the first Events Track apprenticeship for the 2023-2024.

United will provide funding for the program and PCMA will provide the recipient with full-time employment in a coordinator-level position. During with apprenticeship, the selected applicant will be given an overview of Choose Chicago’s operation and the impact of tourism in its local economy, as well as career tracks focused on event planning and operations with PCMA and United.

“The future of Chicago’s tourism and hospitality industry depends on connecting promising young talent to fulfilling careers,” Choose Chicago President and CEO Lynn Osmond said. “This apprenticeship program is one of the ways that we are working to establish a pipeline of talented young people who want to work in events, hotels, restaurants or other tourism-adjacent businesses. I encourage all of our partners to invest in workforce development, and lead by example by committing resources to career exploration and internship opportunities.”

Learn more here.

GeoEx Announces Top Travel Destinations for 2024

Sept. 26, 2023—Travel company Geographic Expeditions (GeoEx) has announced their top recommendations on where to travel in 2024. This year's focus is off-the-beaten-path treasures in countries that see less tourism than many, or little-explored regions of popular destinations. Read on for their 2024 top destinations and why:

• Visit Algeria for rich artistic traditions and an eclectic culinary landscape. Visit UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean coastline.
• Visit Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom for mountain scenery, temples, festivals and a country committed to sustainable tourism development. Over 70% of the country is pristine forested landscape.
• Visit Cambodia for luxury stays in a destination brimming with rainforest and jungle landscapes and ancient ruins.
• Visit India to see the famous Himalayan landscapes, cliff-hanging monasteries and wildlife—including Bengal tigers, rhinoceros and water buffalo.
• Visit Iraq to explore the ancient ruins of Mesopotamia, the architecture of Ur, Uruk and Ctesiphon, and the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.
• Visit Japan, a major tourist destination, and explore the less-trekked areas of the Shikoku Island, cedar and pine forests, coastal beaches and crags and the isolated Iya Valley.
• Visit Saudi Arabia to see the historic Al Balad quarter of Jeddah, the ancient sandstone monuments of Hegra and UNESCO-listed palaces at At-Turaif and neolithic rock art in the cliffs near Jubbah.
• Visit Sri Lanka, now majorly recovered from a period of internal conflict, to enjoy innovative cuisine, dynamic history and incredible museums and monuments.

Black Travel Summit Launches National Black Travel Day

Sept. 25, 2023—Black Travel Summit (BTS) has introduced National Black Travel Day, a day dedicated to celebrate and honor global travel among Black travelers. The day is to be observed Nov. 11.

“Black Travel Summit was founded with the aim of elevating and strengthening the presence of the Black travel community each and every day. With National Black Travel Day, we’re thrilled about this new call-to-action to recognize the importance of the global Black diaspora and culture in travel,” said BTS Founder and CEO Anita Francois.

Francois chose Nov. 11 as the date to honor the birthdate of Jamaican American pilot Captain Barrington Irving, who, in 2007, became the first and only Black person to fly around the world on his own.

BTS’ annual conference will take place Oct. 20-22 at Hyatt Centric Brickell Miami.

Brightline Opens Between Orlando and Miami

Sept. 22, 2023—Brightline’s newest route between Miami and Orlando opened today with a grand opening at its Orlando stop that included more than 500 elected officials, business leaders and community partners across Florida.

Brightline launched in 2018 in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with its Boca Raton and Aventura stations opening last year. Between Miami and Orlando, the route will cover 235 miles over between three and 3.5 hours.

The Brightline Orlando Station, the only intercity passenger rail station of its kind in the United States, is located inside Orlando International Airport (MCO) train station next to its new Terminal C. Economy fares from Orlando to Miami will begin at $79, offering 16 round-trips daily between the Orlando and Miami with hourly departures.

Following this expansion, the company plans on taking operations to the West Coast with Brightline West, connecting travelers via high-speed fully electric trains between Los Angeles and Las Vegas. The project is schedule to begin by the end of 2023.

Salamander Collection Marks Debut of Virginia Resort Rebrand

Sept. 21, 2023—Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond Salamander Resort & Spa in Middleburg, Virginia, will now be called Salamander Middleburg under the newly rebranded Salamander Collection name. Last year, the company added another branded property in the nation’s capital: Salamander Washington DC, bringing the total number of properties in the U.S. and Caribbean to seven.

“Salamander represents much more than hotels and resorts; for the past decade, our unique culture of inclusion, kindness and warmth, has created a genuine sense of belonging, which is why Salamander Collection is an even more fitting name for our company,” said CEO Sheila Johnson, who recently released her memoir: "Walk Through Fire." 

Omni Hotels & Resorts to Build Raleigh Convention Hotel

Sept. 21, 2023—Based on a vote by the Raleigh, North Carolina City Council, the City of Raleigh staff will enter negotiations with Omni Hotels & Resorts to develop a convention hotel in downtown. The property will be built on an over one-acre lot across from the Raleigh Convention Center and Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts. With plans for 550 guest rooms and 55,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, the property is expected to open in 2027. It will add to Omni's existing portfolio of over 50 luxury hotels, the third in the state of North Carolina and the first in the state's capital city.

Visit Salt Lake Becomes a Certified Autism Center

Sept. 20, 2023—The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) has accredited Visit Salt Lake as a Certified Autism Center (CAC). In order to earn this certification, at least 80% of an organization's staff must undergo specialized training and certification to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for understanding and catering to autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors and their families.

For over 20 years, IBCCES had led the way in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the world. It is the only organization to offer this type of certification, grounded in evidence-based training, the perspectives of autistic individuals, onsite reviews, customized recommendations and renewal requirements. Visit AustismTravel.com for a free list of Certified Autism Centers and other resources.

This accreditation propels Visit Salt Lake's efforts to create an inclusive community. A recent CDC report indicated that the autism diagnosis rate stands at one in 36 children, and that one in six people have a sensory need. Hospitality and entertainment options that have worked to become certified in catering to these guests are helping provide people with an incredible experience anywhere they travel.

Brightline Partners with Mears Transportation and Avis Car Rental

Sept. 20, 2023—Brightline and Mears Transportation have partnered to connect travelers between Brightline Orlando Station and destinations within the region. Mears’ transportation offering will be incorporated into Brightline’s booking service Brightline+, available on its app and website. Brightline users may also receive special rates when booking through Brightline’s new partner Avis Car Rental.

Beginning Oct. 4, guests will be able to use Brightline+ Shared Connect Shuttle, which connects Orlando International Airport (MCO) to more than 25 resorts, and Luxury Private Ride to reserve transportation to and from MCO.

“Last mile connectivity is an integral piece of the travel experience for our guests, Mears is the respected transportation leader in Central Florida and will be a valuable partner delivering our  Brightline+  service  in Orlando,” said Michael Lefevre, vice president of operations for Brightline. “Mears Transportation is familiar to Orlando travelers and a brand that aligns seamlessly with the level of hospitality our guests know and love.”

Bizzabo Launches Bizzabo Studios in Partnership with Smyle

Sept. 20, 2023—Bizzabo, an event software for B2B conferences, has announced that they are partnering with award-winning creative agency Smyle to launch Bizzabo Studios. The new premium service will continue Bizzabo's work of enabling incredible events through best-in-class technology, coupled with creative and operational expertise. The two companies have already successfully executed over 250 events for clients including Amazon, Salesforce, Financial Times and Lululemon.

Modern event organizers face an uncertain economy that brings budget fluctuations and requires continuing shifts in marketing strategy. On a mission to deliver immersive experiences that put forward valuable content, facilitate relationships and meet business targets, these event organizers can access the creative and operational expertise of Bizzabo Studios and Bizzabo's veteran team's long track record of operating successful events around the globe.

Visit Anaheim Launches New "Here We Go" Marketing Campaign

Sept. 20, 2023—Visit Anaheim, the official destination organization for Anaheim, launches a new marketing campaign, "Here We Go," to showcase the destination in a post-pandemic environment, welcome old and new visitors and encourage travel. The campaign is directed to people traveling for both leisure and meetings and conventions.

View the promotional video that kicked off this new campaign here.

Events Industry Council Announces Recipients of 2023 Global Awards

Sept. 20, 2023—Events Industry Council (EIC) has announced the annual Global Awards recipients for 2023. The awards recognize outstanding achievements and leadership at all levels and areas within the global business events industry.

The award celebration will take place at Bellagio Resort & Casino Las Vegas on Monday, October 16 from 5:00-8:00 pm PDT.  Register here.

The 2023 Global Awards Recipients are as follows:

EIC Hall of Leaders 

• Carina Bauer, CEO at Regent Exhibitions Ltd/IMEX Group
• Barbara Connell, CMP Fellow, President and CEO at Solutions by Connell, LLC
• Wanda Johnson, CAE, CEO at American Society for Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition
• Steve O'Malley, Enterprise Vice President, Maritz Global Events
• Amelia Roziman, CIS, CEO at Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak)
• Christine "Shimo" Shimasaki, CDME, CMP, Managing Director at 2Synergize, LLC
• Dr. Deborah Breiter-Terry, CEM, Retired from University of Central Florida Rosen College of Hospitality Management

EIC Pacesetter Award

• Dale Hudson, CED, Event Specialist - Exhibitions & Conferences at Enhance Events

EIC Social Impact Award

• Geneviève Leclerc, Co-Founder and CEO at #Meet4Impact
• Zoe Moore, CDP, CEO at Grow with Zomo

EIC Adaption and Innovation Award

• Megan Henshall, CMP, DES, Strategic Lead of Global Events Solutions at Google

Meet Minneapolis Records Highest Weekly Demand for Hotel Rooms Since Fall 2019

Sept. 19, 2023—From Memorial Day to Labor Day 2023, Meet Minneapolis reports, Minneapolis hotel room demand rose 11% since summer 2022. From Aug. 27 to Sept. 2, over 56,000 hotel rooms were occupied, and the weekend of June 23-24 set an all-time record for occupied hotel rooms at 19,531. This resulted in an increase of over 10% from summer 2022, at $107 million.

This is due in part to large events in the city, such as the Taylor Swift concerts, Twin Cities Pride Festival and Kiwanis International Convention on the record weekend of June 23-24. Other events, such as USA Volleyball Girls Junior National Championships and Twins-Brewers saw a 96.3% occupancy rate on June 13. The Gay Softball World Series and Minnesota State Fair saw a 91.8% occupancy rate on Sept. 2.

Meet Minneapolis is still at work to bring business travel back to pre-pandemic levels. Today, they launched a fall leisure tourism campaign directed at communities 15 to 300 miles from the city. Earlier this year, they launched another leisure tourism campaign, See What All the Fuss Is About. In late August, over 2,500 people, including about 900 meeting and event planners, attended the major events industry convention Connect Marketplace at Minneapolis Convention Center. Meet Minneapolis anticipates increasing requests for proposals for future events that will bring positive economic impact to the city.

AHLA Expands Initiatives to Elevate Women in Hospitality with ForWard

Sept. 19, 2023—AHLA Foundation of the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) announced a new initiative aimed at elevating women in hotel industry leadership and ownership. Upon a merger with Castell Project, under the name ForWard, which began as an AHLA event, the initiative forms one brand to offer resources, events, professional development opportunities and community-building forums that will help develop women leaders in the hospitality industry.

Anna Blue, president of AHLA Foundation, says, "There is tremendous opportunity for us to do more to celebrate, champion and create community for women. AHLA Foundation is uniquely positioned to collaborate across industry and invest in women who are advancing hospitality."

The initiative will include:

• ForWard BUILD & ELEVATE: a year-long curriculum of skills-based workshops, career coaching and leadership coursework (formerly Castell BUILD & ELEVATE)
• ForWard Thinking: a speaker series for hospitality students to help them envision career opportunities (formerly Castell@College)
• The ForWard Network: a community of woman leaders that brings together ForWard Ambassadors, friends of Castell and Castell Luminaries
• The ForWard Conference: a continuation of the original AHLA Foundation event
• The Peggy Berg Castell Award: an award to celebrate woman leaders in the hotel industry, named to honor the Castell Project's founder (formerly the Castell Award)

Register for the upcoming ForWard 2024 conference at AHLA ForWard's site.

AHLA and HAC Partner to Expand Green Key Global Sustainability Certification Program in the US and Canada

Sept. 19, 2023—The American Hotel and Lodging Association (ALHA) and Hotel Association of Canada (HAC) today, at the Lodging Conference in Phoenix, announced that they have signed a letter of intent to form a joint venture company under the name Green Key Global, which will own and operate a sustainability certification program for the U.S. and Canadian hotel and lodging industry.

The environmental certification will be based on an assessment and audit process that measures hotel performance in areas including, but not limited to, energy and water conservation, land use, hazardous and solid waste management and air quality. The certification criteria is recognized by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and aligned with the United Nation's 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Green Key Global will begin operating in early 2024 as ALHA's and HAC's joint-venture company. President and CEO of HAC, Susie Grynol, says, "Through this partnership, Green Key Global will unite the hotel industry behind a North American standard of sustainable certification. Our best-in-class program will allow hotels to exceed the expectations of their eco-conscious travelers through a third-party validation of their sustainable practices."

Walter E. Washington Convention Center Awarded LEED Gold Certification

Sept. 18, 2023—Walter E. Washington Convention Center, in Washington, D.C., announced that it has been awarded LEED v4.1 Operations and Maintenance: Existing Buildings Gold Certification for its variety of sustainable practices and programs, including water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) was developed by the U.S. Green Buildings Council (USGBC) and provides an international symbol of excellence as a building rating system in the realm of design, construction and operational practices that improve environmental and human health.

The Walter E. Washington Convention center uses low-emission glass to minimize temperature fluctuations, sensor-controlled high-efficiency lighting, bathroom fixtures that reduce the demand for water supply and waste systems and paints, adhesives and sealants with little to no volatile organic compounds. They also possess an extensive waste diversion program that emphasizes education, and recently conducted a waste audit to identify where they could further reduce waste and increase recycling and composting.

In all 50 states and more that 185 countries, over 105,000 commercial and institutional projects, comprising over 12 billion sq. ft. of construction space, currently participate in LEED.

Maritz Partners with EIC to Launch Sustainability Event Professional Certificate Course

Sept. 18, 2023—Sales and marketing services company Maritz has partnered with Events Industry Council (EIC) to launch the Sustainable Event Professional Certificate (SEPC) introductory course for 48 members of their team at their recent brand event, Activate. They brought in Chief Sustainability Officer for the EIC Center for Sustainability and Social Impact, Mariela Bazán. 

EIC launched this online certificate program in 2022 to help provide standardized training for event professionals interested in creating and accelerating sustainability and social impact in their organizations and events. Participants earn 12 hours of Continuing Education credits (CEs) towards their CMP (Certified Meeting Professional) application or recertification and 12 CAE credits.

Posadas and Grupo Xtra Announces Two Resorts in Cancun

Sept. 15, 2023—In a ceremony held in Quintana Roo, Posadas subsidiary Fiesta Americana Travelty and Grupo Xtra, began the construction of two properties on the Mayan Riviera: Live Aqua Riviera Cancun and Grand Fiesta Americana Riviera Cancun All Inclusive Resort & Spa.

"At Posadas, we are deeply committed to Quintana Roo and sustainable economic growth,” said Posadas CEO Jose Carlos Azcarraga. “Our operations adhere to the most stringent sustainability standards, and we have implemented numerous environmental conservation initiatives. We will generate 2,000 new jobs in the region."

Posadas has 13 hotels in the Quintana Roo region under several of its brands, including Live Aqua , Curamoria Collection, one and more.

The new hotels are anticipated to open between Q1 2025 and early 2026.

Tennessee’s Davidson County Generated a Record $9.97 Billion in Travel Spend in 2022

Sept. 15, 2023—Research from Tennessee’s 2022 Economic Impact of Travel revealed a visitor spend of $9.97 billion, a 35% increase from 2021.

Visitor spend in Nashville, an average of $27 million per day, makes hospitality one of the city’s largest industries. According to the report, Davidson country saw an 30% increase—47,046 jobs—in tourism-related employment compared to 2021.

“With nearly $10 billion in visitor spending last year, Nashville leads the way as the highest contributor to tourism spending across Tennessee, accounting for over one-third of visitor spending statewide and providing vital revenue to fund essential local and state government operations,” said Deana Ivey, president and CEO of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. “Our success is built on Nashville’s authenticity, the wealth of our remarkable assets, the power of the Music City brand and being a welcoming city.”

Statewide, tourism in Tennessee generated nearly $29 billion in visitor spending and received 141 million visitors in 2022.

Association Forum Announces Annual Flagship Event Theme

Sept. 14, 2023—Chicagoland’s Association Forum has announced the theme of its annual flagship event, Holiday Showcase, marking its 35th anniversary.

This year’s theme, Incubate, is meant to represent moving forward and is an invitation to attendees to play a part in creating an environment that promotes growth in the events industry.

“Holiday Showcase has long been a pivotal event in the association community, and its 35th anniversary provides a perfect opportunity to reflect on its successes and embrace innovative changes,” says Callan Stapleton, CAE, executive vice president and president of business and education services for the Illinois Bankers Association and chair of the Holiday Showcase Program Advisory Group. “The new approach promises to revolutionize the way attendees engage with the event, as well as foster collaboration and inspire fresh thinking.”

The event begins Nov. 29 and will consist of two days of keynotes, breakout session and a reception. Registration is now open at holidayshowcase.org.

Visit Carlsbad Launches Free Transportation Service in Partnership with Circuit

Sept. 14, 2023—Visit Carlsbad, in partnership with on-demand electric car service Circuit, today announced the launch of Carlsbad Good Ride. This will be a free transportation program providing rides from lodging properties to key attractions to make travel through Carlsbad easier than ever. Visitors can book rides through the Circuit app.

The pilot program will run through September 1, 2023 through April 1, 2024, on Wednesdays and Sundays from 10:00am to 8:00pm. They plan to extend operation to every day from 10:00am to 10:00pm April 1 through August 31, 2024.

Incentive Solutions Rebrands as Extu

Sept. 13, 2023—Incentive Solutions today announced it has rebranded as Extu. The company is a provider of channel marketing and sales solutions that helps manufacturers and dealers increase sales, build customer loyalty and improve data collection. They help to provide a more complete view of the marketing channel. Extu plans to add additional product lines and services in the future.

Steve Prebble, CEO of Extu, says, "Our rebranding reflects our new shared identity and the continued evolution of our company since the combination of Incentive Solutions and OneAffiniti. We are proud to provide our clients with more comprehensive solutions that we believe will help accelerate their growth."

NCBMP Announces 11th Annual State of Black Tourism Event

Sept. 13, 2023—The National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) announces that its 11th annual "State of Black Tourism" landmark event will take place on Thursday, September 21st, 2023, at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library in Washington, D.C. The event will bring together industry professionals to participate in engaging discussion and networking centered around the topic of Black tourism. The event's targeted learning outcomes include the impact of Black tourism on local economies, the preservation of cultural heritage and strategies to promote diversity and inclusion.

The NCBMP is a non-profit organization dedicated to training African American meeting planners. It has advocated and promoted diversity and inclusivity within the tourism and hospitality industry for the past 40 years.

NCBMP Executive Director Jason Dunn says, "We understand the power and influence of tourism to any economy, especially destinations, communities and partners that we consider friends. It is my aim to have a thoughtful conversation with President [Derrick] Johnson [President and CEO of the NAACP] and gain insight on how Black culture intersects with Black tourism."

MMGY Acquires Lieb Management

Sept. 13, 2023—Industry Leader MMGY Global announced today that it has acquired Germany-based PR and marketing firm Lieb Management. The firm will now be known as MMGY Lieb. With MMGY Lieb's comprehensive, customized services for marketing, sales and public and influencer relations for the tourism and MICE industries in the Germany, Austria and Switzerland markets, this acquisition poses MMGY Global to expand its international public relations practice.

MMGY Global CEO Katie Briscoe says, "MMGY Global as thrilled to partner with Lieb Management as we continue to expand our operations at a time of continued growth for both international and domestic travel activity. This is a significant move as we strengthen global services for our client portfolio, bolstering our expertise with the investment in this team of experts specializing in the Germany, Austria and Switzerland markets."

Together, they will continue to offer innovative, data-driven strategies to empower travel and hospitality businesses in the global landscape. This is MMGY Global's 11th acquisition.

Informa Markets Introduces Age Inclusive Accreditation

Sept. 13, 2023—As part of its DEI strategy, London-based exhibitions organizer Informa Markets has partnered with age diversity advocates 55/Redefined, has gained an age accreditation.

“In this competitive landscape, creating an inclusive environment where colleagues can thrive is essential to attract and retain top talent,” said Mike Sealy, vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion at Informa Markets. “We recognize that one of the keys to success is harnessing the unique perspectives and experiences of colleagues from all age groups. Age diversity is not about putting up with each other’s differences, it’s about embracing them and learning from them.”

To become an age-inclusive accredited employer, the company has committed to the following:

• Ensuring recruitment practices are accessible to workers over 50
• Communicating and promoting vacancies fairly
• Reviewing HR handbooks and policies relating to retirement
• Investing in technical training and reskilling of colleagues over 50

Baha Mar Reveals Full Event Lineup for The Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival

Sept. 11, 2023—The Caribbean's leading luxury resort, Baha Mar, in Nassau, The Bahamas, will be holding their annual The Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival on Oct. 27th-29th, 2023. This year's programming will include interactive celebrity chef demos, master classes, live performances and a first-time art showcase FUZE—where attendees can explore Caribbean art culture through panel discussions, guided tours, live printmaking demonstrations and a film series, facilitated by The Current Gallery & Art Center at Baha Mar. This year's event will open with a live performance by Sting at the Welcome Beach Party Powered by SLS Baha Bar, at the award-winning Baha Bay Waterpark.

Tickets are on sale at Baha Mar's Bahamas Culinary & Arts website and are priced by experience, ranging from $35 to $1,000 per-person, per-event.

French Startup Alltheway, Powered by SITA Technology, Innovates with Doorstep Baggage Delivery Service

Sept. 11, 2023—French start-up Alltheway is a new baggage service that enables passengers traveling from Paris to check in to their flights and then have their bags picked up from their home or city center hotel, from where their luggage will be delivered directly to their destination. The company soon plans on releasing an airport carousel bag pick-up and city delivery service as well.

The company will be powered by SITA, the air transport industry's IT provider, with their Bag Journey, technology, which integrates with an airline tracking systems to share live baggage-tracking information, so customers can keep an eye their bags in real-time from when it is picked up to when it is delivered. SITA also provides information on customer flight check-in and departure times so agents can plan strategic luggage pick-up times and ensure baggage is at the airport on time.

Anticipating a surge of visitors to Paris with the upcoming Rugby World Cup in France September 2023, and the Paris Olympics in 2024, Alltheway has partnered with AirFrance/KLM and hospitality group Accor. This is an effort towards meeting customer demands for seamless air travel and off-airport services. It will help customers avoid the stressful experience of losing their luggage in busy airports.

Of course, nobody wants to lose their luggage, and services like this will help to prevent it. This unfortunate event does still happen, though. Smart Meetings recently published an in-depth story on one of the incredible ways unclaimed baggage is being repurposed in Unclaimed Baggage Becomes Hidden Treasure.

Bill Hansen Launches Full-Service Hospitality Company Hansen Group

Sept. 11, 2023—Bill Hansen expanded his extraordinary event brand in South Florida today with the launch of Hansen Group, now a comprehensive company offering catering, venue support, concierge services and more.

Hansen Group now serves as the parent company of Bill Hansen Catering, Lovables Catering + Kitchen, Eten Catering and Alexander Event Catering to help groups choose the best catering service for their event's needs and budget. Hansen Group also includes Bill Hansen Miami Venues, which helps event professionals find the best venue for their South Florida functions.

"We are in the business of establishing thoughtful relationships, which can only be built by extraordinary service. By visiting Hansen Group's website, planners and clients will immediately be connected with someone who truly understands their needs, wants and vision for their event. From there, our concierge team can connect them with the right venue, caterer or vendor."

Corsica Partners Acquires Alora Search Partners

Sept. 11, 2023—Global executive search and growth advisory firm Corsica Partners announced the acquisition of boutique talent acquisition firm Alora Search Partners. They have appointed Alora Search Partner's founding partner Mary Langan as managing director and cybersecurity practice lead.

Dan Veitkus, CEO and managing partner of Corisca Partners says, "Alora Search Partners has developed a respected reputation serving public, VC and PE backed software, robotics and cybersecurity firms...With this acquisition, we extend our capacity to deliver exceptional C-Suite talent across every major function of the enterprise."

Langan says, "Dan and I have been collaborating on executive talent acquisition for many years. We also share a set of core values that made the decision to join forces quite compelling. The combined resources and experience of our firms will provide our clients with greater depth and breadth of capabilities to call upon when they require trusted search partners."

Iberostar Group Partners with Planeterra to Launch an Ambitious Community Tourism Initiative

Sept. 8, 2023—Iberostar Group, a family-owned Spanish multinational tourism company and hotel group promoting a responsible tourism business model, has partnered with Planeterra, an impact-driven non-profit using tourism to uplift local communities. Under this partnership, they are launching a program promoting community tourism initiatives in destinations where Iberostar Foundation hotels are present.

The program's community tourism initiatives aims to protect the ecosystems and boost the social and economic development of the communities where they operate. They have set goals to provide over 95,000 travelers with community tourism experiences, involve 35 communities and implement 36 projects over the next decade, improving the lives of over 13,000 people.

The initiative has already been piloted at 18 of Iberostar's hotels and resorts in Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Alejandro Borrás, head of the Iberostar Foundation, says, "It is essential to support and involve local communities, making them active participants and thus contribute to improving the living conditions of the people who are part of them. In this way, the alliance with Planeterra allows us to contribute to their empowerment and integrate them into the value chain of the tourism sector."

HSMAI Launches Latin American Conference Series: HSMAI Latam

Sept. 7, 2023—The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) announces a new conference series taking place in Mexico, Colombia, Peru and Chile, beginning this month. The conference series, called HSMAI Latam, will be led by a new Latin American advisory board formed in 2022, and headed by Gabriela Otto, managing director of HSMAI Brazil, which was chartered in 2014. This board is made up of a diverse group of representatives from different segments of the hotel industry in each country.

This newest conference series aims to support sales, marketing and revenue management professionals in the hospitality industry in these countries by offering strategic development opportunities and driving tourism. Otto says, "I'm proud to be spearheading the expansion of HSMAI throughout Latin America, offering immeasurable opportunities for industry growth through shared insights, conversations and best practices to increase profit."

First Annual Power of Partnership Stewardship

Sept. 7, 2023—Tourism Cares has partnered with Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance Inc., the Travel Foundation and the U.S. Cultural & Heritage Marketing Council to announce the launch of the Power of Partnership Stewardship Summit (POPS) in Richmond, VA on October 15-18, 2023. With a focus on DEI progress and inclusion from global industry professionals, the summit will be an innovative and collaborative event.

Stephanie M. Jones, founder and CEO of Cultural Heritage Economic Alliance, Inc., and Blacks in Travel & Tourism emphasizes the need for change. "As travel and tourism continue to take shape post-pandemic, there's a need to radically change how the industry manages its stewardship of destinations and better engage the residents who live there," says Jones. "The primary goal of POPS is to generate action and partnerships, calling for industry transformation."

Delta Airlines Completes Delta Sky Way at LAX 18 Months Ahead of Schedule

Sept. 7, 2023—Delta Airlines and Los Angeles World Airports have announced that the final phase of the $2.3 billion Delta Sky Way at LAX project is complete. Moving airside walkways now connect Delta's Terminal 3 at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Bussing between the terminals is no longer necessary. This renovation makes it easier than ever for travelers to move directly between the terminals.

Vice President of Global Sales Scott Santoro says, "This modern, state-of-the-art facility has been at the center of Delta's efforts to become the premier airline of Los Angeles, and now, as we celebrate this years-long project being finished much earlier than expected, we are better equipped than ever to provide Angelenos and all of our customers traveling through LA with the truly seamless and elevated experience that they deserve."

Just this past June, the Delta One check-in area opened to provide customers with more of this seamless experience. This includes self-service kiosks for printing boarding passes and dropping bags. Delta One customers are offered a private TSA screening lane, access to the Delta Sky Club and light food and beverages along with onsite service assistance. Delta completed renovations to Terminal 3 this past April.

W South Beach Implements Innovative 360-degree Immersive Mapping Tech

Sept. 6, 2023—W South Beach is the first hotel in North America to implement 360-degree immersive mapping technology. This is part of its ongoing $6 million meeting space renovation. In their new ballroom, they have installed a built-in projection system that can transform the 4,300 sq. ft. blank canvas into any setting desired. The only requirement is light. The projection system has pre-set color schemes and a digital library of stills and video displays. Energy-efficient customizable LED lighting is built into 12 ceiling coves and six wall arches.

Norse Atlantic Airways Debuts New Direct Flight Between LA and Paris

Sept. 6, 2023—Norse Atlantic Airways, a leader in low-cost long-haul airlines, has announced that it will now be offering a new direct route between Los Angeles and Paris, taking place six days a week. The flight will cost as low as $279 one-way and will last about 11 hours, departing from LAX at 9:10 PM PDT and arriving in CDG at 5:00 PM CEST (+1); they will depart from CDG at 4:15 PM CEST and arrive in LAX at 7:05 PM PDT (same-day). Flights are available for purchase now, and will commence on May 1st, 2024.

Norse Atlantic Airways launched in 2021 and since then has offered affordable long-haul flights mainly between the U.S. and Europe. They operate a fleet of 15 modern, fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly Boing 737 Dreamliners serving destinations including but not limited to San Francisco, New York, Orlando, Oslo, London and Berlin.

IEG Chairman of the Board of Directors Passes Away

Sept. 5, 2023—Leading international trade fair company, Italian Exhibition Group S.p.A. (IEG) announced on September 5, 2023, that Mr. Lorenzo Cagnoni, Chairman of the Board of Directors with power of attorney, has passed away. At the time of his passing, he holds 13,000 shares of IEG.

The Board of Directors will integrate the board and appoint the new chairman in accordance with the Articles of Association and current law.

Smart Meetings extends their deepest condolences to Mr. Cagnoni's family and loved ones for this immense loss.

Monterey Country CVB Rebrands as See Monterey

Aug. 31, 2023—As park of an ongoing an effort to advance an innovative, sustainable era of responsible tourism and establish Monterey County as a global destination, Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau has announced its rebranding as See Monterey. This new name not only is more streamlined and recognizable, but encourages visitors to deeply engage with exploration and diversity of experience during their stay.

Its new brand platform, "Find Your Way Here," too, is an invitation to make an active effort to seek connection with Monterey's incredible natural environment, where the redwoods meet the coastline, and embrace the moments in that space with the people around them and with themselves.

A new logo, color palette, redesigned advertisements and a digital footprint all accompany these changes and embody their mission.

Fox World Travel's Scan for a Cause Initiative Benefits PACT

Aug. 31, 2023—At it's 2023 Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) Convention in Dallas, Fox World Travel implemented its Scan for a Cause initiative. Under this initiative, participants could simply showed up and had their name badge scanned by a member of the Fox World Travel team, and for each scan, Fox would donate to Protect All Children from Trafficking (PACT).  They raised over $5,000 to donate to the organization.

This initiative is part of Fox's commitment to uplifting sustainable practices in the travel industry with a focus on three core priorities: People, Planet and Principles.

Improvement in US-China Travel on Horizon

Aug. 30, 2023—U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo’s official visit to China this week presents a sizable opportunity to restore the Chinese inbound travel market, according to a release by U.S. Travel Association. China was the third largest overseas inbound market to the U.S. (pre-pandemic) and provided $33 billion in annual travel export income for the U.S. economy—more than any other market. Two key focus areas for the government to increase travel from China are lowering visa wait time (now averaging 149 days) and increasing air service capacity. On the second point, U.S. and Chinese officials reached an agreement to increase weekly flights from the U.S. to 24 by October 29, which is still less than 10% (340 weekly flights) of pre-pandemic capacity.

On the upside, overseas travel to the U.S. experienced a boost last month, increasing from 73% recovered (compared to 2019 levels) in June to 78% in July.

New Orleans Music Industry Flourishes with the Launch of METRONOME

Aug. 30, 2023—New Orleans is known as the city that is Built to Host. Its abundant music scene continues to grow with the addition of METRONOME, a program recently launched by Greater New Orleans, Inc and New Orleans and Company in partnership with The Idea Village, Louisiana Entertainment and the City of New Orleans.

METRONOME puts forth a series of programs designed for entrepreneurs who are solving problems or building new opportunities in the music industry. The full ten-week program will pair participants with a dedicated industry mentor and provide one-on-one coaching sessions, specialized workshops and networking opportunities. This is a fantastic opportunity for planners working in the music industry or with music industry professionals who seek to grow the industry's business aspect.

CHLAHF Awards Scholarships to 53 Students Pursuing Hospitality-related Degrees at 12 California Colleges

Aug. 28, 2023—The California Hotel & Lodging Association Hospitality Foundation (CHLAHF), in conjunction with the CHLA Education Foundation and the Hotel & Restaurant Foundation, has awarded a total of $164,000 in scholarships to 53 students pursing degrees in hospitality, tourism and culinary arts across 12 California Colleges.

These schools include San Diego State University, San Jose State, Cal Poly Pomona, City College of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, California State University Long Beach, California State University East Bay and Sacramento State University. The scholarship intends to elevate the California Hospitality Industry by supporting education and research opportunities for industry employees and hospitality students.

Students at Monterey Peninsula College (MPC) and the Sustainable Hospitality Management program at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) received over $25,000 in these scholarships.

Foundation President and General Manager at the InterContinental Mark Hopkins hotel in San Francisco Michael Pace says, "This year's scholarship recipients have demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication, and we are thrilled to use these awards to cultivate the next generation of hospitality leaders, ensuring a prosperous future for the entire California hospitality industry."

Center for Exhibition Industry Research Announces New Direction

Aug. 24, 2023—The Center for Exhibition Industry Research has announced a new look for CEIR that will focus on a renewed commitment to delivering modern innovative and exciting reports that will ultimately allow customers to be able to put on better events.

Click here to get a sneak peak of their new look.

Black Travel Summit Announces Second Annual Gathering

Aug. 24, 2023—Black Travel Summit has announced that the second annual conference of the Black travel community will take place from October 20^th to 22^nd at the Hyatt Centric Brickell Miami.

In partnership with the Black Travel Alliance (BTA) the three-day celebration will offer a series of speakers and partnerships dedicated to uplifting the Black travel movement.

"We’re excited about the program for our second annual summit because it illustrates the ever-growing visibility, innovation, and economic power of the Black traveler and travel professional,” said Anita Francois, the visionary founder, and CEO of Black Travel Summit. “We're honored to elevate our movement this year and highlight the leaders of our community by joining forces with the Black Travel Alliance."

For more information on the Black Travel Summit click here.

Newark Liberty International Airport Completes Terminal A Renovation, And Plans for More

Aug. 23, 2023—The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is leading a complete renovation of the Newark Liberty International Airport, and as of today announced the completion of the first major effort with the Terminal A renovation.

Now at 1 million sq. ft., Terminal A includes 33 gates and will be the new home terminal of Delta Air Lines. It includes a new 7,000 sq. ft. Delta passenger lounge with an acoustic sound system designed to absorb the outside sounds of the airport so guests of Delta's Sky Club can enjoy a peaceful, quiet environment before their flight. The terminal as a whole features a light, airy design, is decorated with local art and was constructed according to LEED silver certification standards from the U.S. Green Building Council. Guests can enjoy retail, food and beverage shops local to Newark, Elizabeth and Jersey City alongside national and global brands.

The airport is now beginning efforts towards a privately financed Rent-A-Car facility that will consolidate 10 rental car operations in one location, expected to open later in 2024. They are also looking toward updating their AirTrain Newark system with a new 2.5-mile automated train system to more conviniently transfer passengers across terminals, parking lots and car rental facilities.

Gaylord Rockies Begins Phase Two of an Expansive Renovation

Aug. 22, 2023—Just five years after its grand opening, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, the largest combined resort and convention center in Colorado, has announced plans to begin phase two of a multi-year investment plan.

Phase One saw a redesign of the property's outdoor lawn spaces and the addition of dining terraces for Old Hickory Steakhouse and Mountain Pass Sports Bar. This upcoming set of re-enhancements will include the addition of a new bar and restaurant concepts in the Grand Lodge: The Embers Lodge Bar and The Fortune Prospecter. This project has an anticipated completion date of spring 2024. They will also re-concept their two existing restaurants, Monte Jade and Vista Montagne, to Garden & Grain and Copper Table.

The property's new event pavilion, the Mountain View Pavilion, is set to welcome guests in 2024. It encompasses 12,118 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor pre-function space, over 14,000 sq. ft. of outdoor terraces and patios, 15,000 sq. ft. of turfed lawn areas as well as interior spaces featuring floor to ceiling windows, banquet space, an indoor fireplace and unmatched views of the Rocky Mountains.

General Manager Suzy Hart says, "You rarely see this amount of growth in a resort property. We just completed a major exterior enhancement in April and now we're ready to give guests the interior experience of their dreams."

Fort Worth Convention Center Begins Renovation Project

Aug. 18, 2023—The Texas Forth Worth Convention Center has announced plans to begin a $95 million renovation and expansion. This August, they begin Phase 1, during which they will install new F&B facilities, an outdoor terrace, four new docks, renovated exhibit hall restrooms and a lightbox atrium entrance. They will also demolish a 1993 annex and realign Commerce Street to create a site for a new convention center hotel. These projects have an anticipated completion date of 2026, and the center will remain open and operational through construction.

New Legislation Addressing Visa Delays is a Win for the Meetings Industry

Aug. 18, 2023—The Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance (ECA) today released a statement in support of the bipartisan Visa Processing Improvement Act (Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-MN and Sen. Jerry Morgan, R-KS). The act intends to improve visa processing in the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consumer Affairs by:

• increasing consular office flexibility and capacity,
• improving transparency and accountability,
• revising in-person interview waiver eligibility, and
• improving the service experience

In all, this will help to resolve the lengthy visitor visa appointment wait times that harm business events. Vinnie Polito, Society of Independent Show Organizers CEO and ECA co-president, says, “From setting clear goals for interview wait times to introducing new modernized processes, the Visa Processing Improvement Act would improve visa operations at U.S. embassies and consulates around the world and help our international stakeholders get back to business in the U.S.”

Hervé Sedky, Emerald’s president and CEO and chair of the ECA board of directors says, “The legislation opens the doors to welcome back numerous international exhibitors, attendees, and buyers to U.S. events, revitalizing access to essential customer bases and unlocking opportunities.” 

More legislation is on the table. In both the Senate and House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, the State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs legislation also addressed visa concerns. The House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Relations recently held a subcommittee hearing that discussed the impacts of visa delays, with special attention paid to the issue's effects on the business  events sector. The ECA will continue to engage on Capitol Hill in support of the Visa Processing Improvement Act and other ongoing efforts by Congress to reduce visa delays.

Tourism Diversity Matters Awards Dinner Honors NAACP

Aug. 18, 2023—Tourism Diversity Matters, a 501(c)(6) that works to empower tourism organizations to achieve excellence in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, will host their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Conference: The Collective Experience. At their annual Awards Dinner, sponsored by Meet Boston, on October 23, 2023, they will recognize the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) with their prestigious award, which honors an organization with demonstrated success and commitment to DEI.

Executive Director of TDM Greg DeShields says of NAACP, "They pioneered the civil rights movement in the 20th century and continue their extraordinary work today to end race-based discrimination through 21st activism. It is an honor to recognize their achievements in DEI excellence."

Solar Eclipse Backpacking Adventure Tour in Death Valley

Aug. 17, 2023—A rare total solar eclipse on October 14^th will coincide with a 5-day backpacking tour put on by Escape Adventures. With low-light pollution and clear skies, spectators will be able to see the solar event.

Guests will see Death Valley National Park, Red Rock Canyon, Spicer Ranch Trailers, Titus Canyon, Monarch Canyon, Stovepipe Wells and Cottonwood Valley. Prices for the adventure start at $1,699 and include all internal land expenses and services.

AHLA Releases Statement on GSA FY2024 Per Diem Rates

Aug. 17, 2023—The General Services Administration (GSA) announced its Fiscal Year 2024 per diem rates, which govern reimbursement for federal employees' lodging and meal expenses for official government travel, will be rising. The GSA calculates per diems based on the average daily rate (ADR) of lodging properties in the continental U.S. over a trailing 12-month period. The 2024 report calls for  increases across non-standard areas (NSAs) as well as a $9 increase to the continental United States lodging rate. This brings the 2024 per diem rate to $166, including $107 for lodging, up from $98. Meal reimbursement remains unchanged at $59.

AHLA works with GSA in an effort to maintain a fair agreement on per diem rates for both hoteliers and the government. AHLA President and CEO Chip Rogers says, "This is a positive step for many hoteliers across the country, as government travel supports billions in travel spending, and many private sector organizations also base travel reimbursement on federal per diem rates. We thank GSA for working to ensure hotels are fairly compensated for the excellent services they provide government travelers year in and year out."

Florida sees its strongest international visitation numbers since 2019

Aug. 16, 2023—VISIT FLORIDA announces today that Q1 and Q2 of Calendar Year 2023 saw 70.8 million visitors. These numbers mark a 21.8% increase in overseas visitors and an 81.1% increase in Canadian visitors, compared to 2022. Between April and June 2023, Florida recorded a total of 33.1 million visitors. 1.9 million visited from overseas, 846,000 visited from Canada and 30.3 million visited from other states in the US. Florida's 80% recovery rate compared to 2019 numbers leads the US in the highest post pandemic recovery rate of international travelers.

VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO Dana Young says, "VISIT FLORIDA has been laser-focused on building our key international markets and ensuring the return of international visitors to Florida, and that work has paid off."

Meet Boston Debuts New Partnership Model

Aug. 16, 2023—In a thoughtful reworking of its goal to drive tourism-related business to the Boston region, Meet Boston, formerly known as The Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB), announces its shift from a membership model to a partnership model, based on 6 pillars.

According to Meet Boston Executive Vice President Hilina D. Ajakaiye, the partnership model is intended to "serve as an advocate and ambassador in the travel sector, leading conversations around workforce development, diversity, equity and inclusion, accessibility and sustainability." The partnership model will more equitably distribute how and where visitors spend money in the greater Boston area. Meet Boston President and CEO Martha J. Sheridan shares that the term "partner" more accurately applies to their value of creating a unified voice for the region.

Since the spring launch, 75 partners have joined Meet Boston. The partnerships that Meet Boston has established and will continue to establish will expand the options for meeting planners bringing their meeting to Boston in terms of dining, meeting spaces, attractions and more.

GMCVB Announces New Multi-Media Marketing Campaigns

Aug. 14, 2023—The Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) announced two strategic marketing campaigns to share the vibrant experiences unique to Greater Miami with travelers and meetings planners around the world. Both campaigns will showcase innovative new marketing and advertising strategies, promoted through a blend of print ads, display banners, interactive mobile and desktop display ads, online video (OLV) ads, social media promotion, a dedicated url on MiamiandMiamiBeach.com and dedicated emails.

GMCVB tailors to audience personas and is founded on the ideas of building from their existing strength, leveraging performance and visitor momentum and leaning into five pillars central to Miami as a destination: Outdoor Oasis, Cultural Capital, Rich Heritage, Health & Wellness and Meetings & Conventions.

The Find Your Miami campaign seeks to introduce prospective visitors to all that Miami offers to travels through self-defined elements through their creative play on words: Be Artventerous, Celovebration, Deluxious, Fitnescape, Symposium and more.

The Miami Beach Find Your Wave campaign zones in on the distinctive beach life of Miami and will leverage the distinct luxury of a beach destination, while also promoting the Miami Beach Convention Center.

DFW Airport Breaks Ground on Sustainable Utility Plant

Aug. 14, 2023—Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) began the first phase of construction on its new electric Central Utility Plant (eCUP), said to provide heating and cooling to support the growth of DFW. The facility will be mostly fueled by electricity purchased by the airport that comes from 100% renewable sources.

“DFW Airport is investing in the future of sustainable aviation, and the addition of a fully electric utility plant is a major component of achieving net-zero carbon emissions from airport operations by 2030,” said Sean Donohue, CEO of DFW. “As we prepare to build new gates and other critical infrastructure, we also will ensure that our growth is environmentally responsible and resilient.”

eCUP is scheduled to begin official construction this summer and open mid-2025.

Brightspot Incentives and Events Announces Merger with Incentive Team

Aug. 11, 2023—Brightspot Incentives and Events, in the incentives and channel programs industry, merges with Incentive Team, an incentive company specializing in the kitchen and bath industries. Effective immediately, the merger will help Brightspot expand its reach across industries, build their capabilities and build on Incentive Team's competitive presence. Their clients can now enjoy broader offerings and an enhanced experience, and Brightspot has the opportunity to expand their relationships with leading showroom professionals.

Brightspot looks forward to talent and technical expertise Incentive Team's employees will bring to incentive strategy, client account management and web development. Peter Goldberger, President of Incentive Team, will be take a part-time role as an Account Executive at Brightspot.

Mike May, CEO of Brightspot, says, "We are thrilled about this merger with Incentive Team as it expands our reach into new industries and reinforces our commitment to providing unparalleled incentives and channel programs to our clients. The combined expertise and experience will enable us to deliver even more comprehensive solutions that drive long-term value for our clients."

AEO Launches #ChooseEvents Campaign

Aug. 10, 2023—The Association of Event Organizers today announced its #ChooseEvents campaign to highlight the events industry and display the enormous talent throughout by sharing inspiring member stories, videos, and ideas. It will run on AEO's social media channels and emails. They hope to inspire a new generation of bright minds to enter the events industry with enthusiasm, recognizing the ample opportunities, career growth, diverse set of roles and genuine fun that they can have as professionals in events.

Co-founder of Expocast Mike Frost says, "Thousands of extraordinary people have stumbled into the events industry, and while we will continue to gain talent through chance, now is the moment to push this campaign out and show people the many wonderful reasons they should be choosing the sector more proactively."

ASAE Research Foundation Announces Eight 2023 CAE Scholarship Award Recipients

Aug. 10, 2023—The ASAE Research Foundation, a separate nonprofit entity in support of ASAE, offers grants of $500 for select individuals to put towards application fees or exam preparation, as well as membership rates for the CAE exam registration.

The 2023 CAE Scholarship recipients are:

• Kelsey Copeland, MFA Communications and Events Director, Associated Plumbing Heating and Cooling Contractors of Texas
• Dr. Ashley Cross, Sr. Director of Education and Content, Association of Technology Leaders in Independent schools
• Derrick Johnson, CMP, DES, Convention and Events Director, National Medical Association
• Meda Merritt, Sr. Director of Membership & Chapter Development, American Fire Sprinkler Association
• Rebecca Morgan, MPA, AP, Executive Director, Nisha Media Leadership Solutions
• Noelle Parsons, MA, Account Manager, Strategic Association Management
• Shena Seppanen, Assistant Executive Director, Society For Biomaterials
• Patricia Woodley, M.Ed, International Membership Director, Delta Kappa Gamma Society International

Lowell Applebaum, FASAE, CAE, CPF, says "Those three letters after your name, they open the door to a world of opportunity and often are a key piece of the path to leadership in our profession."

On behalf of Smart Meetings, congratulations to the 2023 CAE Scholarship recipients.

AHLA Foundation Announces Over 1 Million Completed Anti-Human Trafficking Trainings

Aug. 9, 2023—Trainings designed to help hotel employees recognize and report signs of possible on-property human trafficking, developed by Marriott International, distributed by PACT and funded by American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), have now been completed over one million times by hotel employees across the United States.

This is only one part of AHLA's anti-trafficking efforts. Last month, AHLA held their 2023 No Room for Trafficking Summit, where they awarded $500,000 in grants from the No Room for Trafficking Survivor Fund to four community-based organizations that serve survivors of human trafficking. Currently, the fund stands at $3.5 million. By the end of 2023, the AHLA Foundation plans to achieve $10 million in contributions.

This industry-wide initiative recognizes the unique opportunity of hospitality professionals to disrupt and prevent human trafficking, for which trainings like these are essential.

Freeman Announces Acquisition of Brand Experience Agency Sparks

Aug. 5, 2023—Freeman announced today that it has acquired Sparks, a global brand experience agency. Founded in 1919 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Sparks is recognized for providing award-winning exhibit and event experiences to a diverse group of Fortune 1000 brands, including Google, Salesforce, Anheuser-Busch InBev, and T-Mobile.

Sparks will combine with Freeman’s award-winning agency business, which also caters to major corporate clients, including Amazon, Cisco, and Kohler.

This agency combination will focus on the corporate market and complements Freeman’s industry expertise and operational excellence, positioning the Company to accelerate its growth by meeting the evolving needs of corporate clients and show organizers.

“Our combination with Sparks creates a unique opportunity to accelerate Freeman’s vision to become a leader in the corporate space,” said Bob Priest-Heck, Freeman CEO. “Sparks, like Freeman, is built by great people, has a long history of success, and is one of the most respected names in the industry. We couldn’t be more excited to have Sparks’ talented team join Freeman at this exciting time for the industry.”

Discover The Palm Beaches Announces Accessible Tourism Program

Aug. 4, 2023—Official non-profit accredited tourism marketing organization for the 39 cities and towns collectively known as The Palm Beaches in Florida has earned the Certified Autism Center designation through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Wheel the World and Travelability.

IBCCES is the only credentialing organization that provides a certification program developed through evidence-based training, the perspectives of individuals with autism, onsite reviews, customized recommendations and renewal requirements. This credential is the first step in a long-term accessibility program on the part of Discover The Palm Beaches. They aim to become a Certified Autism Destination and to partner with various area attractions, hotels and recreation areas to successfully complete autism and sensory training and certification. Through these efforts, Discover The Palm Beaches demonstrates its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all travelers to be understood and receive proper accommodations.

California Lieutenant Governor Asks Taylor Swift to Postpone LA Concert in Solidarity with Striking Hotel Workers

Aug. 2, 2023—Thousands of Southern California hotel workers are on strike to call for higher pay to match inflation, more hires to reduce large workloads and better working conditions. The strike began on July 4th and continues today. California Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and numerous California senators, assemblymembers and mayors signed a letter requesting that Taylor Swift postpone her 6 days of concerts in Los Angeles to show solidarity with the striking workers represented by Unite Here Local 11. "Your shows make our region's hotels a lot of money. In Los Angeles, hotels are doubling and tripling what they charge because you are coming," the letter states. The letter requests of Swift "Stand with hotel workers and postpone your concerts." Swift so far has not released a response.

Indianapolis Breaks Ground on Convention Center Expansion

Aug. 2, 2023—Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Visit Indy President and CEO Leonard Hoops gathered with community leaders to break ground on Indiana Convention Center's (ICC) sixth expansion.

“Over the past decades, the Indiana Convention Center has hosted some of the most iconic large events in Indiana and America, while generating billions of dollars in economic impact and supporting a hospitality and service sector with over 80,000 jobs,” said Mayor Hogsett. “This latest expansion and hotel addition will keep Indianapolis at the top of everyone’s list when it comes to the perfect host venue—and city.”

Along with the expansion, a 40-story Signia by Hilton will also be included, raising the total number of hotels rooms connected via climate-controlled skywalks to more than 5,500 in Indianapolis.

The expansion is expected to be completed by summer of 2026.

Virgin Red and Virgin Hotels’ The Know Partner Up

Aug. 1, 2023—Virgin Red and Virgin Hotels’ The Know members can now link their profiles to earn Virgin Points for their next stay.

Members of the program will now be able to earn and spend Virgin Points in a wider variety of ways, whether staying at a Virgin hotel or shopping at participating business. When staying at a Virgin property, visitors will earn five Virgin Points for every $1 spent at participating U.S.-based properties and seven Virgin Points for every £1 spent at participating U.K.-based properties.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Virgin Hotels to make it even easier for our members to earn points on their next stay,” Andrea Burchett, managing director of commercial and loyalty for Virgin Red, says. “With hotels popping up across the U.S. and U.K., we want to reward our members staying at Virgin Hotels with points to spend on everyday treats or extraordinary experiences.”

Street Love Foundation Organizes Meal Packing at Harrah's Resort Atlantic City on Aug. 2, 2023

July 31, 2023—If you find yourself in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on Aug. 2, make your way to Harrah's Resort to join Street Love Foundation partnered with Meals of Hope. There, at 9:30 a.m., you can join nearly 150 already-registered volunteers in packing 50,000 nutritious meals over the course of a few hours. These meals will be distributed to local food banks and charitable institutions such as Project HOME and AC Rescue Mission.

President and Founder of Street Love Foundation Liz Schneider began the organization with her neighbor, Vice President of Street Love Foundation Jill Plotnik, during the Covid-19 pandemic. They began by loading Liz's car with 20 fresh meals to distribute to those in need around Atlantic City. Today, the foundation's inspiring growth is visible through this event.

When: Aug. 2 at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Harrah's Resort Atlantic City

Register to volunteer at streetlovefoundation.com.

Oak View Group Partners with Tulsa Public Facilities Authority

July 28, 2023—Tulsa Public Facilities Authority (TPFA) has voted unanimously to grant Oak View Group (OVG) a venue management and F&B contract for its music venue, BOK Center, and Cox Business Convention Center.

“We know the potential of the Tulsa market, and we know BOK Center and Cox Business Convention Center are centerpieces of that forward movement” said Tim Leiweke, CEO of Oak View Group.

“Oak View Group has a number of leaders—John [Bolton, senior vice president at OVG], Jeff [Nickler, senior vice president at OVG and general manager of Austin’s Moody Center], Casey [Sparks, vice president of OVG Austin] and Joe [Giordano, vice president of OVG’s arena, stadium and theater alliances]—who have deep roots and a profound respect for the market, coupled with long-time relationships with the city’s key stakeholders and among the community. OVG working in Tulsa will feel like coming home, and we couldn’t be more excited.”

OVG manages more than 60 convention centers across North America. In the last two years, the company has opened several arenas across the United States, including Climate Pledge Arena at Seattle Center; UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York; Moody Center in Austin, Texas; Acrisure Arena in Greater Palm Springs, California; and CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Maryland, its most recent opening.

Read More: Oak View Group Is Leaving a Trail of Partnerships

The Allegretto Vineyard Resort Proudly Announces 2023 Ayres Cares Scholarship Awardees

July 25, 2023—21 local employees and family members of The Allegretto Vineyard Resort have been awarded the 2023 Ayres Cares Scholarship Fund, out of its 57 total scholarships this year. This makes Allegretto team members 36% of the total recipients. The Allegretto management’s brand “We Care About People” rings true, with over 250 employees who have majority been there for an average of five years.

These scholarships support team members and the children or legal wards of team members who are employed by and in good standing with Ayres Hotels, Ayres Group or affiliated companies and are enrolled in college, community college, trade school or vocational training. There is no age limit to apply.

Congratulations to Omar Acevedo, Mayzee Armstrong, Christina Ayala, Michael Brown, Alexandria Coggins, Tristan Compton, Mauricio Diego, Dylan Griewank, Finley Hungerford, Samuel Juarez, Joshua Martinez, Amy Mintun, Cynthia Navarro, Ryland Patti, Stefan Pedrazza, Israel Perez Pedrazza, Macie Pinedo, Calvin Seely, Brooke Taylor, Christian Torres, and Alex Wassam at Allegretto!

UPS Dodges Strike After Reaching Tentative Deal

July 25, 2023—UPS may have dodged a massive strike involving 340,000 unionized workers after reaching a tentative deal Tuesday, potentially avoiding a work stoppage that threatened to derail logistics across the country, AP reports.

“Together we reached a win-win-win agreement on the issues that are important to Teamsters leadership, our employees and to UPS and our customers,” said Carol Tomé, UPS chief executive officer, in a written statement. “This agreement continues to reward UPS’s full- and part-time employees with industry-leading pay and benefits while retaining the flexibility we need to stay competitive, serve our customers and keep our business strong.”

The tentative agreement is seen as both “historic” and “lucrative” by the Teamsters and includes $2.75 more per hour in 2023, $7.50 more per hour over the length of the five-year contract, and an increased starting pay for part-time employees at $21 an hour, up from the current hourly rate of $16.20.

San Francisco Awarded More Michelin Honors

July 24, 2023—Last week's 2023 MICHELIN Guide California awards confirmed that San Francisco remains the culinary capital of the Golden State. The City by the Bay boasts 27 Michelin-starred restaurants and the San Francisco Bay Area is now home to 50 of the 87 California restaurants awarded Michelin stars.

 Two San Francisco restaurants—Aphotic, a restaurant specializing in sustainable and dry-aged seafood, and Nari, a Thai restaurant—earned their first Michelin stars, and all of the city’s previously awarded two-star and three-star restaurants retained their honors. Aphotic was also honored with a Michelin Green Star, which recognized the establishment for its commitment to sustainability. Altogether, San Francisco is home to half of the state’s three-star Michelin restaurants and five of its 12 two-star establishments, plus three of its 15 Green Star restaurants.

Michelin also recognized the city’s rising culinary talent for the second year in a row. Chef Harrison Cheney, the executive chef at Sons & Daughters, received the prestigious Michelin Young Chef Award, which was awarded to Chef David Yoshimura of San Francisco’s Nisei last year.

“For a small city only seven-by-seven square miles, San Francisco is one of the world’s great gastronomic hubs,” said Joe D’Alessandro, president and CEO of the San Francisco Travel Association. “We are thrilled to see the city’s incredible culinary scene recognized again by Michelin.”

U.S. Travel Association Urges Completion of FAA Reauthorization Bill

July 24, 2023—U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman issued the following statement on the urgent need for the U.S. Senate to markup its version of the Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bill and correct years of governmental failures:

“While the Senate may be eager to fly home to start their August recess, millions of Americans have missed trips and lost time with family and friends this summer due to delays and cancellations caused by years of government inattention. The whole of the U.S. economy pays a price when a trip is delayed—or avoided entirely due to air travel hassles. 

“In fact, over half of Americans say they would travel more if the experience were less of a hassle. 

“The Senate must markup its FAA reauthorization bill this week. American travelers cannot wait any longer for Congress to fix the numerous, systemic issues that have plagued the U.S. air travel system and constrained economic growth.”

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Boeing Announces Pilot Training Scholarships to Diversify, Expand Talent

July 24, 2023—Boeing today announced $950,000 in scholarships to fund pilot training programs with the goal of adding a diverse pool of talent amid the anticipated long-term demand for commercial airline pilots, according to a press release.

Boeing will allocate $500,000 to fund 25 scholarships within five educational programs. These organizations include Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Latino Pilots Association, Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, Sisters of the Skies and Women in Aviation International.

The remaining $450,000 will be provided to Fly Compton, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit geared toward introducing minority youth to careers in aerospace. The scholarship funding will increase flight training classes and related career topics for students within the Compton community in the Los Angeles area. Boeing has invested over $8.5 million to fund pilot training programs for underrepresented communities since 2019.

“The demand for qualified and diverse pilots remains high at airlines worldwide. While becoming a pilot provides a lifelong career, access to training remains a barrier to entry for many," said Ziad Ojakli, executive vice president of Government Operations at Boeing. "These organizations are helping the next generation of pilots realize their full potential while also showing communities that are historically underrepresented in the industry that a future in aviation is possible."

Boeing projects 602,000 new pilots will be needed to pilot and maintain commercial airlines globally over the next 20 years.

Cvent and Choice Hotels International Announce Cvent Instant Book Product

July 24, 2023—Event technology provider Cvent announced at Cvent Connect that it will be rolling out a new direct booking integration with Choice Hotels franchised properties in the third quarter of the year. Meeting planners can search, compare real-time rates and availability and book rooms online without submitting an RFP.

"We’re proud to work with Choice Hotels International to further expand our Cvent Instant Book experience,” said Jim Abramson, Cvent Vice President of Product Management. "This new functionality reflects our shared vision of making booking and managing meetings & events easier – for both planners and hoteliers alike. By embracing innovative technology like Cvent Instant Book, Choice Hotels is prioritizing the customer experience, and now, each of their property owners can easily tap into our extensive global network of 110,000 meeting and event organizers who trust Cvent to find the right venue and power their events."

Destinations International and Destinations International Foundation Announce New Board Members

July 21, 2023—The 2023-2024 association Board of Directors for Destinations International and Destinations International Foundation Board of Trustees will be headed by President and CEO of New York City Tourism and Conventions, Fred Dixon, as Chair of Destinations International, and President and CEO of Destination Madison, Ellie Westman Chin, CDME, as Chair of Destinations International Foundation. Others include the following:

Association Board Director Slate 2023/2024:
•    Beth Erickson, CDME, President & CEO, Visit Loudoun
•    Bethanie DeRose, CDME, Senior Vice President, JLL
•    Domenic Bravo, CDME, CEO, Visit Cheyenne
•    Julie Calvert, President & CEO, Visit Cincy
•    Kristin McGrath, CDME, Executive Director, Pasadena Convention & Visitors Bureau
•    Kyle Edmiston, CDME, President and CEO, Visit Lake Charles
•    Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, CQIA, President & CEO, ASAE
•    Victoria Cimino, President & CEO, Visit Williamsburg
•    Yrjötapio “YT” Kivisaari, CEO, Visit Oulu

2023/2024 Slate of Officers: 
•    Chair: Fred Dixon, New York City Tourism + Conventions
•    Chair-Elect: Scott White, Visit Greater Palm Springs
•    Immediate Past-Chair: Al Hutchinson, Visit Baltimore
•    Treasurer: Leslie Bruce, President and CEO, Banff & Lake Louise Tourism Bureau
•    Secretary: Kyle Edmiston, CDME, President and CEO, Visit Lake Charles

Foundation Board Trustee Slate 2023/2024:
•    James Jackson, President & CEO, Tourism Jasper
•    Jerad Bachar, CDME, President & CEO, VisitPITTSBURGH
•    Jessica Ireland, Founder, Sunshine & Bourbon
•    Katherine O'Donnell, CDME, Executive Vice President, Richmond Region Tourism
•    Martha Sheridan, President & CEO, Meet Boston
•    Todd O'Leary, CDME, CTIS, VP, Marketing & Communications, Sonoma County Tourism
•    Victoria Clarke, CDME, CEO, Tourism Mississauga

2023/2024 Slate of Officers: 
•    Chair: Ellie Westman Chin, CDME, President & CEO, Destination Madison
•    Chair-Elect: Amir Eylon, President & CEO, Longwoods International
•    Immediate Past-Chair: Vail Ross, Senior Vice President, Global Business Development & Marketing, STR
•    Treasurer/Secretary: Martha Sheridan, President & CEO, Meet Boston
•    At Large Office: Steven Paganelli, CDME, Head of Destination Marketing, Americas, TripAdvisor

 

Destinations International Announces 7 New DMAP Accreditations

July 19, 2023—Destinations International today announced seven newly DMAP-accredited destinations during Destinations International’s Annual Convention in Dallas, Texas, according to a press release. The Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) recognizes a destination organization’s commitment to excellence in the meetings industry and its accountability as a destination marketing organization.

“Never before has destination organization relevance been so critical to the economy of the destinations that Destinations International members represent,” said Karen Fisher, MBA, CDME, chief financial officer of VisitPITTSBURGH and chair of the DMAP Board of Directors. “Destination organizations are the destination’s brand owners and participation in DMAP demonstrates a destination organization’s commitment to operating within a set of strict standards that sends a strong message to stakeholders that the organization entrusted with the destination brand has the infrastructure and expertise to positively impact the visitor economy for the benefit visitors and residents alike.”

The seven new destinations to receive the DMAP accreditation include Visit Fort Wayne, Experience Scottsdale, Visit Rapid City, Destin - Fort Walton Beach Florida Tourism, Visit Salt Lake, Port Aransas Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce and Visit Gainesville, Alachua County.

Bartolotta Restaurants Names New Senior Director of Human Resources

July 19, 2023—Bartolotta Restaurants has announced Gabriella Bauer, PHR, SHRM-CP, as the organization’s new Senior Director of Human Resources, according to a press release. Bauer joins the restaurant and catering group based in the Greater Milwaukee region with over 20 years of experience and will drive improvements to ensure the seamless integration of HR practices that align with Bartolotta’s goals and values.

“At its core, the hospitality industry is about genuine, enduring relationships and creating lasting memories,” says The Bartolotta Restaurants Chief Executive Officer Keith Trafton. “Our team members are integral to this. Gabriella is an innovative and adaptable leader that will enable us to continue to grow and develop our talent base, while supporting our team and our culture, centered around our hospitality heart.”

Destination International Membership Surpasses 700 Across 26 Countries, Territories

July 19, 2023—Destinations International today announced the expansion of their membership to over 700 members across 26 countries and territories from around the world. The announcement was made by Destinations International President and CEO, Don Welsh during the Destinations International Annual Convention, according to a press release.

“Destinations International exists for the sole benefit of our members and everything we do is to support their efforts in their communities,” Welsh said. “We all realized both during and post pandemic, that there is much to be gained by a global membership engaging and collaborating with one another. Our organization believes in the power of travel and having a strong member community around the world allows destination leaders to engage with and learn from one another to enrich the lives of the people who live, work and travel within their destinations.”

The latest addition to Destinations International’s extensive roster of members is Saudi Arabia and is the first member from the Middle East to join.

United Expands Across the Pacific

July 18, 2023 - United Airlines has announced in a press release its prolific expansion to offer more flights across the Pacific Ocean. Destinations will include Manila, Hong Kong, Taipei and Tokyo. Already making history earlier this year as achieving the largest South Pacific expansion in history with its increased flights to New Zealand and Australia, United will continue on its international expansion as these new flights to the South Pacific increase their presence in the region.

"United offers more flights to more destinations across the Pacific than all other U.S. airlines combined," said Patrick Quayle, senior vice president of global network planning and alliances. "United is the flag carrier of the U.S. and we are excited to bring this new service to Manila while expanding access to Hong Kong, Taipei and Tokyo."

The new expansion will begin in late October with flights from San Francisco to Manila, followed by flights from Los Angeles to Hong Kong. Following flights will begin to fly into Tokyo, Taipei, and flights will increase to Australia and New Zealand.

Indianapolis Airport Receives $22.58 Million from FAA to Fund Sustainable Innovation

July 17, 2023—The United States’ largest allotment of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Improvement Program funding will go to Indianapolis Airport Authority. This funding is part of the $92 million going into the FAA’s efforts to achieve President Joe Biden’s goal of bringing airports to net-zero emissions by 2050.

The Indianapolis Airport Authority will receive $22.58 million, which they plan to use to construct solar panels and other energy-efficient infrastructure at the Indianapolis International Airport. This is part of a larger effort on the part of the airport to complete a multi-phased program to transition the airport’s electricity consumption to fully onsite-generated renewable energy, including backup battery storage and during disruptions or outages. The FAA funding will cover the first 25% of this program.

The Indianapolis Airport already boasts one of the largest solar farms on any airport property, internationally, with 87,478 solar panels across 183 acres. IAA Executive Director Mario Rodriguez says, “We’re committed to environmental sustainability, minimizing the impact of airport operations on the environment, and we’re doing that by exploring continuous improvements and opportunities for innovation.”

Marriott International and MGM Resorts Join Forces

July 17, 2023—Marriott International and MGM Resorts International have just entered a long-term agreement and created “MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy,” scheduled to launch October 2023.

This partnership will include 17 MGM properties, including eight Las Vegas properties and other cities in the United States. Through this partnership, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy properties will be available for booking through Marriott’s website and the Marriott Bonvoy app; they will continue to be available on MGM Resorts’ channels as well.

“This historic, long-term agreement brings together two of the most trusted and iconic brands in hospitality and entertainment,” said Bill Hornbuckle, President and Chief Executive Officer, MGM Resorts. “We’re thrilled to now scale the relationship and offer Marriott Bonvoy members greater distribution access to our award-winning resorts—as well as exclusive event and entertainment opportunities—in Las Vegas and across the U.S.”

Of the 17 resorts joining this new venture, three Las Vegas-based MGM properties will now be affiliated with Marriot collection brands: Bellagio Resort & Casino will join The Luxury Collection, Aria Resort & Casino will join Autograph Collection and Park MGM will join Tribute Portfolio. The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas will continue to be part of Autograph Collection. Other MGM properties in the U.S. set to join the program are Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Mississippi; MGM Grand Detroit; MGM National Harbor in Maryland; and MGM Springfield in Massachusetts.

CyberDyme and Discover Puerto Rico Partner in New Virtual Reality Technology

July 14, 2023—CyberDyme and Discover Puerto Rico have partnered to put forth an innovative virtual reality technology, VRtour. With this technology, potential customers can take part in an immersive experience as presenters guide them through Puerto Rico’s state-of-the-art convention center, facilities, culinary landscape, nature and culture, all through a tablet. This will allow customers to experience the allure of the destination from the comfort of their own home.

Ed Carey, chief sales director officer at Discover Puerto Rico, says, “Through VRtour, we have the capability to offer a captivating glimpse into the distinctive allure of Puerto Rico, enabling meeting planners to establish a profound connection with the destination that surpasses conventional marketing endeavors.” Discover Puerto Rico and CyberDyme hope that, with their partnership in this product, Puerto Rico will be seen as the outstanding destination it is and that their customers will be more engaged than ever.

Biden-Harris Administration Announce $60M for Coastal Resilience, Small Businesses

July 11, 2023—The Department of Commerce along with NOAA this week announced the Ocean-based Climate Resilience Accelerators Program with plans to invest $60 million in coastal resilience and small businesses, according to a press release.

“To tackle the urgent threat that climate change poses, we need all hands on deck—that means the public and private sectors — to develop next generation technologies and innovations that will bolster climate resilience and protect our future,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. “Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we are ensuring that America’s small businesses — the backbone of our economy—are part of developing climate solutions that make our communities healthier and local economies stronger.”

The program is funded through the Inflation Reduction Act and involves public and private partnerships to support small businesses that are working to create sustainable technologies and scale their business models for climate impact. Accelerators consist of private entities that offer a wide array of logistical and training support for small businesses with resources, mentorship and seed funding with the goal of bringing products to market.

Toronto is a Trailblazer in Esport Hospitality

July 10, 2023—The fourth largest gaming market in North America, Toronto is a gaming-industry leader for their championing of DEI. The Esports Travel Summit will see participants such Femme Gaming, Toronto’s Initiative for Diversity and Excellence and the nonprofit group Esport Canada, which prioritizes increasing diversity and representation within the Canadian gaming industry.

The Esports Travel Summit focuses not only on gaming, but also on tourism. Their mission with this summit is to provide continual education of stakeholders in both industries, and their intersection. The city is planning to add an esports-specific venue to its booming hospitality sector.

Joyn Acquires Airnex, Creating The Airnex Group

July 6, 2023—The leading event technology platform Joyn announced today that it has acquired Airnex, Australian-owned business event management company, to form The Airnex Group. Over its 50-year history, Airnex has led the industry in special events, incentives, and international conferences, and together with Joyn, The Airnex Group will use their combined expertise to create innovative technology-led events around the world.

Nicole Walker, Airnex CEO, will serve as the CEO and Group Board Member of The Airnex Group, joined by Jordan Walsh, Co-Founder and CEO of Joyn, as Group Executive Chairman. Tony Ward, former Senior Executive of Xero, Microsoft and LinkedIn, will serve as Director.

Joyn will rebrand as Airnex Live to integrate their technological prowess with the Airnex brand and will relaunch their flagship event technology product as Airnex One. The Airnex Group plans to expand into machine learning and artificial intelligence later this year with a focus on increasing attendee engagement.

Canada Launches New Federal Tourism Growth Strategy

July 5, 2023—Today Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance in Canada Randy Boissonnault launched a new Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. President and CEO of Destination Canada Marsha Walden joined tourism stakeholders in Niagara Falls for the announcement of the strategy, after Destination Canada’s meticulous work with stakeholders and the Canadian government to encourage growth in Canada’s tourism economy.

This strategy targets the parts of the tourism sector with the highest growth potential, prioritizing investment in tourism assets, embracing outdoor recreation, partnering to grow Indigenous tourism, attracting international events, and improving federal coordination.

First SoCal Hotel Reaches Deal as Workers Prepare to Strike at Dozens More

July 3, 2023—As thousands of hotel workers at dozens of properties in Southern California prepared to strike over the busy holiday weekend to emphasize their demands for better pay and benefits, The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles reached an agreement for its 15,000 hotel workers according to a press release from Unite Here! Local 11.

Hotel Association of Los Angeles said in a statement to The New York Times that hotels would be able to continue serving visitors.

Caesar’s Entertainment Announces Plans for Versailles Hotel Tower in Paris Las Vegas

June 29, 2023—Caesar’s Entertainment today announced plans to embark on an over $100 million renovation to create Versailles Tower, which will integrate Horseshoe’s Jubilee Tower into Paris Las Vegas. The 756 renovated guest rooms will be some of the largest on the Strip starting at 436 square feet, and some will feature a 55 square foot balcony with views of the Strip.

The renovation is expected to conclude in late 2023, with a pedestrian bridge in early 2024.

ASAE Announces New Graduating Class of CAE Credentials

June 29, 2023—97 association executives have graduated from the CAE Commission of ASAE with their Certified Association Executive (CAE) credentials this spring of 2023 after successfully completing the internationally administered CAE examination in early May. They join the ranks of over 4,500 industry leaders around the world. They will be honored for their accomplishment at the 2023 ASAE Annual Meeting and Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia, alongside the Winter 2022 graduates, on August 5-8. See the list of graduates here.

Diana M.L. Tucker, CAE, Chair of the CAE Commission and Vice President of Membership and Chapter Relations at NAIOP, the Commercial Real Estate Development Association, says, “This achievement reflects not only significant experience and study, but also a return on investment in their pursuit of ongoing learning and career development. We welcome you into a growing community of fellow thought leaders and expert practitioners who are advancing the field of association management.”

Visit Seattle and Seattle Bank Announce Second Year of Small Businesses for Community Partnership Program

June 27, 2023—Visit Seattle and Seattle Bank have announced the lineup of 16 BIPOC-owned businesses in and around Seattle’s Capitol Hill and First Hill Neighborhoods for the second year of their Community Partnership Program. The goal of the program is to increase tourism and economic activity in Seattle and to provide support to local BIPOC-owned businesses. They saw increased visits and sales to the businesses included in last year’s group.

The selected businesses join Visit Seattle’s Partnership base with waived membership dues, receive complimentary financial consulting services, and receive Visit Seattle’s promotional support. Mary Grace Roske, senior vice president of marketing and communications and community relations for Seattle Bank, says “We know the difference it makes when people are intentional about where they shop and look forward to encouraging both locals and visitors to explore the diverse cultural fabric of our neighborhoods.”

To select this year’s businesses, they partnered with Intentionalist, which produces an online guide on intentional spending. The newly opened Convention Center Summit building is expected to attract increased meeting and event attendees to Seattle this year, and they hope to see an influx of visitors to these outstanding businesses.

O'Melveny & Myers Ask For $139M in Legal Fees after $1 Win in American Airlines Nominal Damages Case

June 27, 2023—American Airlines attorneys O’Melveny & Myers have asked a judge to award them over $139 million in legal fees following a $1 trial win over Sabre, the United States’ largest flight search and booking company. Prior to a merger with American Airlines, US Airways had sued Sabre for over $1 billion, accusing them of charging excessive fees and harming their competition in the booking market. The legal fees are intended to cover the decade-long case. Sabre earlier this month lost its bid to block O’Melveny from seeking legal fees, but argued that they should not owe American Airlines millions in fees after their $1 win.

Internet For All: Biden-Harris Administration Announces Allocation of $42.45B High-Speed Internet Grant Program Funds

June 27, 2023—The Biden-Harris administration announced the allocation of $42.45 billion in funding to all 50 U.S. states and territories by the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), with funding provided by the president’s “Internet for All” initiative, according to a press release.

“What this announcement means for people across the country is that if you don’t have access to quality, affordable high-speed Internet service now – you will, thanks to President Biden and his commitment to investing in America,” said Secretary of Commerce, Gina Raimondo. “Whether it’s connecting people to the digital economy, manufacturing fiber-optic cable in America, or creating good-paying jobs building Internet infrastructure in the states, the investments we’re announcing will increase our competitiveness and spur economic growth across the country for years to come.”

The initiative is a key component of President Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda with the goal of deploying affordable, high-speed internet service to everyone in the U.S. known as the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.

LaGuardia Airport Workers Strike in Response to Unfair Labor Practices

June 22, 2023—LaGuardia Airport cabin cleaners and ramp workers are on strike today to protest unfair labor practices, according to a press release from Service Employees International Union. The statement says that their employer, Swissport USA, has responded to collective action with retaliation and interrogation, and that they lack fair wages and affordable healthcare. Their workforce is burdened with staffing shortages and high turnover.  

Striking workers planned to come to a 24-hour full work stoppage today, beginning with a rally at 1:00 p.m. EDT. State senators Jessica Ramos, Kristen Gonzalez, John Liu, City Council Member Francisco Moya, and Queen Borough President Donovan Richards, all joined the rally in solidarity. 

The union urged Congress to support the fair wages and benefit standards covered by Airport Workers United’s Good Jobs for Good Airports Act in the coming FAA Reauthorization.

At this time, it is unclear if this work stoppage has affected flights. 

Denver Welcomes Record-High Numbers of Visitors in 2022

June 22, 2023—In 2022, visitors flocked to Denver in record-high numbers. Up 15% over 2021, 36.3 million visitors surpassed pre-pandemic levels and generated $9.4 billion in revenue. This data was put forth by the 2022 Longwoods International annual visitor profile study. Longwoods International’s research also showed the VISIT DENVER’S impressive ROI for their 2022 summer advertising campaign, resulting in $167 in visitor spending and $19 in taxes for every $1 in advertising investment.

Richard W. Scharf, president and CEO of VISIT DENVER says, “Tourism continues to be a key economic driver for our city, and we are pleased to see travel demand return in such a big way.”

Global DMC Partners Recognizes Top Destination Management Companies

June 21, 2023—Global DMC Partners recognized five Destination Management Companies (DMCs) for leadership and innovation in a special ceremony at their ninth annual Connection event in Dubai. Global DMC Partners President and CEO Catherine Chaulet says, “it is important to us to be able to recognize [our members’] outstanding efforts and achievements, particularly this past year as we saw our industry rebound and grow like never before.”

The winners in each category are:

U.S. DMC Partner of the Year

Chicago Is LLC

International DMC Partner of the Year

Ikebana Events

DMC Achievement Award

Destination Concepts, Inc.

U.S. DMC Stellar Performer

Kara Adams, INNOVATX Events

International DMC Stellar Performer

Andrea Wild, The DMC SA

DoJ Announces New National Security Cyber Section in Response to Cyber Threats

June 20, 2023—The U.S. Department of Justice today announced the formation of the new National Security Cyber Section, also known as “NatSec Cyber” for short. The new section is part of the National Security Division and was created in response to the 2022 Comprehensive Cyber Review outlining the challenges of escalating cyber threats, according to a press release.

“NatSec Cyber will give us the horsepower and organizational structure we need to carry out key roles of the Department in this arena,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “This new section will allow NSD to increase the scale and speed of disruption campaigns and prosecutions of nation-state threat actors, state-sponsored cybercriminals, associated money launderers, and other cyber-enabled threats to national security.”

The National Security Cyber Section will broaden the Justice Department’s ability to better respond to cyber threats while facilitating and promoting department-wide and intragovernmental partnerships to combat malicious cyber activity.

Norse Atlantic Inaugural Service, JFK to Rome

June 20, 2023 — Norse Atlantic Airways has announced the first of its now daily flights between New York’s JFK airport and Rome Fiumicino Airport which departed the major airport today. The flights between the two internationally famous destinations will depart from JFK daily at 12:30 p.m. EDT daily and land in Rome at 3:15 p.m. local time. As travelers return back to America, they will receive a similar standardized daily routine — flights will depart Rome at 6:55 p.m. local time daily and passengers can expect to arrive at JFK at 10:30 p.m. EDT that same day.

This will be the fifth European gateway from JFK for Norse Atlantic Airways, after Oslo, London, Paris and Berlin. According to the press release, flights from JFK to Rome will be starting at $259 for a one-way ticket including taxes and fees.

MMGY Global Announces Acquisition of TCI Research

June 20, 2023—Leading travel and hospitality firm MMGY Global today announced its acquisition of TCI Research, a European travel, tourism and hospitality data intelligence organization, to create MMGY TCI Research. This acquisition brings MMGY to over 550 employees and 12 offices around the globe, expanding its European presence and its travel intelligence operations.

Founder of TCI Research Oliver Henry-Biabaud says, “Through the MMGY Global investment in TCI Research, we bring our clients unrivaled research solutions that can connect the dots for their data-driven decision-making.” Henry-Biabaud will serve as Partner and Managing Director of MMGY TCI Research, and partner Emmanuel Meniuer will serve as Senior Vice President, Europe. Executive Vice President of MMGY Travel Intelligence, Chris Davidson says, “By partnering with TCI Research, we’re aligning with a leading brand that is synonymous with data integrity while also expanding MMGY Global’s presence and capabilities throughout Europe.”

MPI WEC 2023 in Mexican Caribbean Prioritized Learning and Connections for 1,500 Meeting Professionals

June 16, 2023—Meeting Professionals International (MPI) World Education Congress (WEC) 2023 at the all-inclusive Barcelo resorts in the Mexican Caribbean this week drew 1,4000 attendees live with another 150 attending virtually. Of the in-person attendees, more than 600 were event planners and the Latin American community represented over 100 in total.

The association’s membership is almost 12,000 members, a surge in new supplier numbers in the past 18 months after a drastic decline during the pandemic. There are nearly 6,000 planner members, composed of corporate, ISBO (independent and small business owners) and associations.

Incoming board members were announced. 2023 MPI International Board of Directors (IBOD) Chair will be Michelle Allgauer, senior vice president of education and engagement at Financial Services Institute (FSI). Susie Townsend, chief destination experience officer for Visit Indy will be the MPI Foundation Global Board of Trustees (GBOT) Chair-Elect.

Future WEC locations were recently announced, including:
• 2024: WEC Louisville, May 21-23
• 2025: WEC St. Louis, June 17-19
• 2026: WEC San Antonio, June 2-4

Destinations International Announces Award Recipients to be Honored at 2023 Convention in Dallas

June 16, 2023—Destinations International, the world’s largest collaborative community of destination organizations, convention and visitors’ bureaus (CVBs) and tourism boards, this morning announced the honorees of their 2023 awards. These award recipients will be recognized at Destination International’s Annual Convention, this year in Dallas, to acknowledge their outstanding positive impacts on the industry. President and CEO of Destinations International Don Welsh says of this year’s recipients, “These visionaries have been responsible for the evolution of our industry and have had a profound impact on its healthy future.”

The 2023 Awardees are:

Spirit of Hospitality Award

Too Fly Foundation

Destination Organization Leadership Award

Less than $1M: Melyssa Reeves, CDME, president and CEO, Visit Vacaville

$1-3M: Alana Cooper, president and CEO, Discover Monroe-West Monroe

$3-10M: Kyle Edmiston, CDME, president and CEO, Visit Lake Charles

$10M and Above: Jorge Pesquera, CDME, president and CEO, Discover the Palm Beaches

Destination Organization Leadership Award for Global Impact

Destination Greater Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Hall of Fame Inductees

Industry Contributor:

Victor Hugo Green and Alma Green, creators and editors of The Green Book

Development Era:

Dan Mobley, former president and CEO, Louisiana Travel Promotion Association

Modern Era:

Joseph McGrath, CDME, former president and CEO, Visit Pittsburgh

Steve Moore, former president and CEO, Visit Phoenix

William “Bill” Hanbury, former president and CEO, Bermuda Tourism Authority

Read More: 2022 Hall of Fame Inductees

Cvent Announces Acquisition by Blackstone

June 15, 2023—Industry leader Cvent Holding Corp. (Cvent) this morning announced that it has been acquired by Blackstone, a leading asset manager, for a total enterprise value of about $4.6 million, at $8.50 per share in cash. The transaction sees also an investment from Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) and participation from current Cvent stockholder Vista Equity Partners (Vista). Cvent will be delisted from the Nasdaq Stock Market and has discontinued trading common stock.

Founder and CEO of Cvent Reggie Aggarwal says, “We believe this partnership with Blackstone positions Cvent to continue leading the market for best-in-class technology to maximize event ROI and impact.” David Schwartz, Senior Managing Director at Blackstone, says that they are “thrilled to support [Cvent’s] continued growth and product advancements, bringing Blackstone’s global resources to bear and leveraging the firm’s deep expertise and thematic focus on hospitality, events and real estate.”

Destinations International and ADMEI Create Education Partnership

June 14, 2023—Destinations International has partnered with DMC associations organization ADMEI. The partnership will focus on creating content pieces and education on the role of destination organizations and destination management companies (DMCs). The partnership will work to:

• Collaborate on event cancelation insurance
• Educate on the differences between destination organizations and DMCs
• Educate on how destination organizations and DMCs can work together, and discuss how the planner, destination organization and DMC all benefit
• Develop webinars for each other’s member groups

“Collaboration is key in today’s environment,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “Aligning with ADMEI and providing our members with educational programs and collaboration opportunities provides our members with powerful resources and tools that will equip them for the future.”

MPI Announces 2023 RISE Award Winners

June 13, 2023—Meeting Professionals International (MPI) has announced the outstanding recipients of its Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence (RISE) Awards to be celebrated at the 2023 World Education Congress (WEC23), hosted this year in the Riviera Maya in Mexico. Paul Van Deventer, President and CEO of MPI, says of this year’s award winners, “Their achievements serve as an example of what can be accomplished with dedication and a love for the industry. Let us celebrate their accomplishments and be inspired to pursue our own passions with the same level of enthusiasm and commitment.”

Recipients are identified as MPI members who have gone above and beyond in “celebrating the spirit of leadership, impact, and innovation.” They are selected by the RISE Awards Judging Panel, made up of an international community of MPI volunteers. Seven total awards are given between two categories of individual achievement and community achievement.

The 2023 MPI RISE Award Winners are:

Individual Achievement

RISE Award for Meeting Industry Leadership

Paola Bowman

RISE Award for Member of the Year

John Kirby

RISE Award for Young Professional Achievement

Caroline Cole

Community Achievement

RISE Award for Marketplace Excellence

New York Chapter

RISE Award for Educational Programming

New Jersey Chapter

RISE Award for Industry Advocate

Caribe Mexicano Chapter

RISE Award for Membership Achievement

Kansas City Chapter

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Announces Resort President and Executive Leaders

June 12, 2023—The eagerly awaited luxury resort Fontainebleau Las Vegas, scheduled to open in December 2023, has announced a stunning team of executive leadership, headed first by Mark Tricano as president of the resort. Mr. Tricano holds over 20 years of experience working in leading companies in the hospitality, finance and gaming industries. Michelle Reda will fill the role of Chief Casino Marketing Officer and brings with her 25 years of experience in the Las Vegas luxury hospitality and gaming industries. Kimberly Virtuoso will serve as Senior Vice President of People to lead the resort in its human resources department and build the staff that will make Fontainebleau Las Vegas a premier destination.   

Fontainebleau Las Vegas is a joint development between Koch Real Estate Investments of Koch Industries and Fontainebleau Development, a leader in the real estate development and hospitality industries.  

President of Fontainebleau Development, Brett Mufson, says of these executives, “their passion, appreciation for excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit make each one of them a natural fit to complement the leadership team we have built to date. As stewards of our brand, its culture and heritage, we are thrilled to welcome them to Fontainebleau, as we look to establish ourselves as the pinnacle of luxury hospitality to a new generation of guests.”  

MPI WEC23 Offers Digital Option

June 12, 2023—Can’t make it to the Mexican Caribbean June 13-15? Meeting Professionals International is offering World Education Congress 23 (WEC23) live streaming access to all five main stage sessions and seven concurrent sessions with on-demand access to captured sessions following the event—a total of 90 clock hours—for $99. Amani Roberts (DJ AmRo) will act as WEC23 Digital Experience host.

Global Business Travel Association Announces Education Sessions

June 9, 2023—Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) this week announced the education lineup for the upcoming GBTA Convention 2023. The convention, slated to take place August 13-15 in Dallas at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, will feature 12 education tracks and three professional development levels across over 90 educational sessions.

The 12 education tracks will cover topics including accommodations, payment solutions, technology and innovation, sustainability and others.

Southern California Hotel Workers Vote to Authorize Strike

June 9, 2023—Southern California’s largest hospitality union, UNITE HERE Local 11, which represents more than 32,000 room attendants, cooks, dishwashers, front desk agents, servers and food service workers, have voted to authorize a strike. UNITE HERE Local 11 said in a release that it could call for a strike at dozens of hotels with more than 15,000 workers as early as July 4th weekend.  At the top on the list of concerns for hotel workers is the rising cost of housing.  The groups says that the strike authorization vote comes after more than a month of failed negotiations with hotel employers–including Hyatt, Hilton, Highgate, Accor, IHG, and Marriott. The union’s key demands are an immediate $5 an hour wage increase to keep pace with the cost of housing; affordable family healthcare; a pension that will enable workers to retire with security, and a “safe and humane” workload.

NYC Air Quality Remains Hazardous: Mayor Halts Outdoor Activity

June 8, 2023—NYC Mayor Eric Adams has called a halt to all official NYC outdoor activities and has asked private groups to curtail outdoor events as well as the toxic haze coming from Canadian wildfires continues to bedevil a city that was girt in an orange haze most of Wednesday. Some flights into LaGuardia and Newark were delayed up to 90 minutes earlier in the day and if the haze descends again, the delays may worsen. People are being told to stay indoors and if they do venture out to wear NK95 masks, being handed out today at subway stations around the city.

NYC Issues Air Quality Health Advisory After Canadian Fire Cloud Descends

June 7, 2023—NYC has issued an air quality health advisory after fires in Quebec, Canada created a smoke and haze event that cancelled all outdoor events and sent city dwellers inside or reaching for NK95 masks once again. The massive forest fires in Canada created a cloud of smoke that covered the Eastern Seaboard but was notably dangerous to health in NYC where pollution and ozone issues have exacerbated the haze.

As of 2:44 PM on Wednesday, July 7, news outlets were warning that if visibility got lower, flights would potentially be postponed or canceled. The smoke event is predicted to last until this weekend with warnings that forest fire season in Eastern Canada typically worsens in July.

Benchmark Study Reveals American and Canadian Stance on Tourism Industry

June 7, 2023—A report examining the attitudes of Americans and Canadians toward the tourism industry was released today by Destinations International and Longwoods International with data compiled in the benchmark study, “2022 National Resident Sentiment Towards Tourism,” according to a press release.

The survey involved participation from 5,000 adults in the U.S. and Canada and measured feedback on a regional and generational level to provide results and insights for the tourism industry. The national benchmark evaluation is the first of its kind in a post-Covid-19 world and reflects the attitudes of American and Canadian citizens as travel and tourism quickly rebound.

“We are pleased to continue to track the trends and insights into how United States and Canada residents view the travel and tourism industry with our partnership in research with Longwoods International,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International.  “The study demonstrates the continued need across both borders to continue to educate and inform our residents as to why our industry matters, so they may feel connected and supportive of our work versus being against it.”

“As we have continued year over year with this research study, it’s clear that it is important that destination organizations not simply demonstrate their work to local residents, but actively keep them engaged and educated on all of your initiatives,” said Amir Eylon, President and CEO of Longwoods International. “The research shows us that a well-informed community is a supportive community of tourism.”

Tango Gains ISO 27001 Certification for Information Security Excellence

June 6, 2023—Tango, a rewards and payments company, has been certified according to the ISO 27001:2013 standard, deeming it a trusted partner for security, privacy in digital rewards incentives and payouts.

“We’re proud to have met and exceeded the rigorous standards set forth by ISO 27001:2013.  Many view teams like security, compliance, regulatory, and legal as cost centers or back-office functions. From day one, we have viewed these as core to the products and services we deliver and this is critical for our customers,” said David Leeds, CEO and founder of Tango.

Tango currently operates in more than 80 countries and is a leader in the rewards and payments industry.

Caesars Entertainment Announced as One of 50 Most Community-Minded Companies in the U.S. for 9^th Year

June 5, 2023—Today Points of Light, the world’s largest nonprofit that is determined to support people-powered change, announced that Caesars Entertainment is one of 50 most community-minded companies in the United States. This will be the 9^th consecutive year Caesars Entertainment has been included among The Civic 50.

“At Caesars, we take our CSR initiatives very seriously; it drives how we do business and we strive to continue to improve on our goals year-over-year. To receive this recognition proves that we’re doing just that and we can’t wait to continue making progress,” said Heather Rapp, SVP of Corporate Responsibility.

The report on the honorees included key trends, benchmarking data and insights from the honorees themselves.

Caesars formed the PEOPLE PLANET PLAY to provide framework for corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives for the community and the environment

Events Management Firm PRA Acquires Weil & Associates

June 5, 2023—Business events management company, PRA, announced the acquisition of Weil & Associates—a leader in the destination management sector in the Hawaii market—expanding PRA’s reach in the incentive market, according to a press release.

Weil & Associates was founded in 2002 and specializes in event design, incentive programs, transportation solutions, excursions, as well as a wide variety of custom and unique experiences. Under the acquisition, Weil & Associates will be rebranded as PRA Hawaii under the direction of Weil & Associates founder, Debbie Weil-Manuma.

“We welcome Debbie and her incredible team to the PRA family in anticipation of our next exciting chapter ahead. This expansion of our PRA Hawaii team will serve our valued clients well in this key destination,” said PRA CEO Mike Fiber.

“Hawaii is a highly competitive market and Weil & Associates has always been among the very best in our sector. Now working in conjunction with PRA’s industry-leading creative, production, and global sales team, the team will be able to deliver even stronger solutions in this important market and beyond,” he added.

ASAE Announces 2023 Gold Circle Award Winners

June 1, 2023—ASAE today announced the winners of the 2023 Gold Circle Awards following 170 submissions across 16 categories that were evaluated by 200 judges for creativity, execution and success of outstanding marketing, membership and communications campaigns in the association community, according to a press release. ASAE develops and deploys business solutions to businesses within the association community.

“I am thrilled to extend my congratulations to the winners of the 2023 ASAE Gold Circle Awards,” said Diana Dabdub, CAE, director of admissions & recruitment affairs at the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges and Chair of the ASAE Gold Circle Awards Committee. “The Gold Circle Awards recognize and highlight the significant role that marketing, membership and communications association professionals play in promoting and supporting the growth of associations and their members. This year, the Gold Circle Awards categories have been updated to encourage and promote diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in campaign development. The winning campaigns showcase innovation, collaboration, creativity and thoughtful incorporation of the diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility perspective in their design and implementation.”

Winners of the 2023 Gold Circle Awards will be recognized during ASAE’s 2023 Marketing, Membership & Communications Conference (MMCC) as well as the winner of the Overall Excellence Award. The MMCC is slated for June 21-22.

The 2023 Gold Circle Award winners are:

Overall Excellence Award Winner

To Be Announced June 22 at MMCC

Advocacy Campaign

The Oklahoma State Medical Association

Oklahoma State Medical Association’s Pro-Science Campaign

Convention/Meetings Marketing Campaign

The American Institute of Architects

Women’s Leadership Summit

Digital Publications

American Osteopathic Association

The DO

E-Newsletter

Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits + Arizona Grantmakers Forum

IDEA(s) in Motion Newsletter

Media/Public Relations Campaign

The American Association of Immunologists

AAI National Immunization Awareness Month Campaign

Member Retention Campaign

American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology

Power in Membership

Membership Recruitment Campaign

The American Institute of Architects

Architects Designing a Better World Campaign

Member/Volunteer Engagement Campaign

American Staffing Association

ASA Women in Leadership Initiative

New Product/Service Launch

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

AAOS IDEA Grant Program

Podcasts

American Society of Health-System Pharmacists

ASHP Official Podcast

Print Magazine

Florida Realtors®

Florida Realtor®, The Business Magazine of Florida Real Estate

Rebranding Campaign

Water Professionals International

Our Successful Rebrand to Water Professionals International

Sponsorship/Exhibits/Advertising Promotion

Society of Women Engineers

WE22 Conference Prospectus and Partnership Guide: A Better Opportunity for Results

Video

School Nutrition Association

Bring More to the Table

Website

School Nutrition Association

School Nutrition Association Website Redesign

San Francisco Launches Multi-Million Global Marketing Campaign

May 30-2023– The San Francisco Travel Association has launched a new, multi-million-dollar global marketing campaign, “Aways San Francisco,” targeting leisure travelers and meeting planners in major domestic markets and key international markets. The destination campaign is targeting the meetings trade, as conventions and meetings are a significant component of San Francisco’s tourism industry.

The over $6 million campaign features SF Travel’s first TV ad spot, celebrates San Francisco’s “bold inviting, and playful ethos,” and features iconic SF locations and local San Franciscans:

• It includes cameos by locals, such as Lady Camden (“RuPaul’s Drag Race”), artist Sirron Norris, dancers from the AXIS Dance Company, musicians Mae Powell and Michael O’Konis, Chinatown lion dancers, and chefs from Michelin-starred Angler.
• SF Travel has collaborated with local and San Francisco-connected musicians to reimagine Judy Garland’s beloved rendition of the classic “San Francisco” song for its campaign video – and recorded at Hyde Street Studios, which has produced recordings for rock icons such as The Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane and Santana.

Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino Hosts Dell Technologies World

May 26, 2023– Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino welcomed attendees and exhibitors to Dell Technologies World this week as the resort marks the completion of its North Convention Center. The Mandalay Bay Convention Center remodel includes technology upgrades, digital signage and new design.

“This remodel exemplifies our commitment to evolve alongside the meetings industry by enhancing the experience from start to finish,” said Ernest Stovall, VP of Hotel Sales for Mandalay Bay. “When attendees walk away, we hope they’re already looking forward to returning next year for a memorable and productive session.”

The debut of the North Convention Center marks the completion of Phase One in the $100M remodel of the 2.1 million-square-foot Mandalay Bay Convention Center which is expected to be fully complete by mid-2024. The Convention Center remodel is part of a new enhancements and experiences coming to Mandalay Bay including the redesign of Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas’ 424 rooms and suites; the recent addition of Retro by Voltaggio; the debut of Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar in June; and the fall opening of the immersive Play Playground at Luxor.

Cvent Announces New AI Writing Tool

May 24, 2023 -Cvent has announced the launch of its AI Writing Assistant. The tool, incorporated directly within the Cvent platform, allows generative AI to streamline the content creation process, helping event professionals and marketers produce event content, quickly. Cvent said in a release that the system can be used for event emails, event websites, session descriptions, request for proposal (RFP) responses for sourcing venues, and more.

The AI Writing Assistant’s intelligent algorithm adapts to user guidelines (which include formal, enthusiastic, or playful, and concise or verbose, among others) to generate content that aligns with their brand tone and voice.  The new innovation will be available to all Cvent users for free within its event marketing & management platform including in solutions such as Attendee Hub, Registration, and Cvent Supplier Network, among others. The AI Writing Assistant is available now.

Destinations International Advances European Pathfinders Challenge

May 24, 2023—Destinations International (DI) today announced the launch of the European Pathfinders Journey Global Challenges Call for Global Collaboration industry brief. The brief was launched during IMEX Frankfurt.

The DI Pathfinders are a forward-thinking group of European destination professionals committed to tackling key issues facing destination organizations today. Since the program’s launch at IMEX Frankfurt 2022, the European Pathfinders have been working with partners and the DI team to bring key trends in European destinations to light and understand how leaders in the industry are stepping up to address these challenges and opportunities.

Key areas include:

• Development of best practices​.
• Support the evolution of digital platforms​.
• Amplify the need for all sustainable development choices​.
• Create tools to measure social and environmental impact​.
• Industry research for data-based, strategic decision making​.

PCMA Launches Project Spark to Uncover Practical Applications of Generative AI

May 24, 2023—PCMA and CEMA President and CEO, Sherrif Karamat, CAE and Gevme CEO, Veemal Gungadin today announced Project Spark, a complimentary research and educational initiative to uncover the impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) on the business events industry. Under this initiative, the AI model will be tested for various practical applications within the scope of business events to understand its impact on workforce productivity.  

Project Spark, in its first phase, offers business event strategists access to a generative AI platform designed to increase efficiency in achieving event goals and is supported by educational content and engagement sessions to aid in the learning process. This is complemented by an online community to foster collaborative research evolution.  

Those who wish to be part of this transformational initiative are invited to visit Project Spark to join the community waitlist.    

New Orleans Sustainability Lead Recognized

May 24, 2023—New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center Director of Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility Linda Baynham was recently recognized as one of five local Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) Champions by New Orleans and Company, the city’s destination marketing organization. Honored during the weeklong celebration, NTTW champions are individuals in the industry who are passionate about their chosen field and create positive impacts in the community. Each of the five champions represents a different sector of the hospitality and tourism industry.

As Director of Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility, Baynham establishes company-wide sustainability and corporate social responsibility goals for the Convention Center. She reaches these goals through the Center’s recycling programs and its energy and water reduction initiatives, and she works closely with internal and external partners to implement sustainability programs.

World of Hyatt Celebrates Launch of Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres

May 24, 2023—World of Hyatt on Wednesday announced the launch of the hospitality company’s newest brand, Impression by Secrets, with the opening of Impression by Secrets Isla Mujeres, according to a press release.

The new all-inclusive, adults-only resort is located on the island of Isla Mujeres northeast of Cancun. The latest addition to World of Hyatt’s portfolio expands the brand’s overall presence to 120 resorts globally. The new brand is anticipated to set the benchmark for personalized service through the “Endless Privileges” concept, which allows guests to personalize the resort’s luxury amenities to create a distinct experience.

The unique destination also has its sights set on preserving the natural splendor of the island implementing sustainable practices. “The resort already holds an environmental certification from Preserve by Nature, and is part of the Saving our Sharks Foundation, which is headquartered on property and dedicated to protecting the sea life of Isla Mujeres,” the press release read.

Hilton Announces Project H3

May 23, 2023 — Hilton announced today in a press release that it will be launching an extended-stay brand for the workforce travel market. These apartment-style units are meant for guests who are staying 20 nights or longer while still benefiting from Hilton’s hospitality.

Project H3 is the working title for the project, the brand is currently unnamed. According to the press release, Project H3 “delivers an exciting investment option for developers looking to diversify their portfolio under the Hilton name.”

ExCeL Become First UK Venue to Open Checkout-Free Store

May 22, 2023—The London event venue ExCeL opened ‘Market Express’ today, the first frictionless, checkout-free store within an events space in the UK.
Powered by Amazon’s Just Walk Out AI technology in partnership with Levy UK + Ireland, the store will further enhance the visitor food and beverage experience. Visitors to ExCeL’s Market Express simply tap their payment card or mobile wallet upon entry and then the Amazon Just Walk Out technology detects what is picked up from or returned to its shelves, creating a virtual shopping session.

Visit Oakland announced 21% Increase in Visitor Volumes

May 18, 2023—Visit Oakland hosted IMPACT 510: The Town Tourism Day at Blok 15 near Jack London Square to announce that 2022 visitors spend $590 million last year on lodging (33%), food and beverage, transportation, retail and recreation.

“We have so much to be proud of in Oakland” said Visit Oakland President and CEO Peter Gamez. “Our visitor volumes increased 21% in 2022. This is so powerful for The Town because travel confidence has continued to build and bolster the recovery in Oakland. It was particularly important to us that IMPACT 510 The Town Tourism Day was both informative and inspiring.  It was a day shared with all who live, work and visit Oakland.”

“Oakland’s travel and hospitality industry has a lot to celebrate as it makes tremendous strides on the road to recovery, and provides incredible value for the community in many ways,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California, the state’s tourism marketing organization. “As the Town once again welcomes visitors from around the world, hospitality businesses are supporting thousands of jobs and solidifying Oakland as a world-class destination.”

Washington, DC, Welcomed 20.7 Million Visitors in 2022; Generates Record Number of Jobs

May 18, 2023—Destination DC announced that domestic visitation in 2022 rebounded to 91% of pre-pandemic levels. Visitors spent $8.1 billion and supported a record 84,111 jobs in 2022. Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, led a rally for hundreds of hospitality industry professionals to celebrate the importance of tourism to the local economy.

“As an economic development organization, we are optimistic about the increase in domestic visitation, near pre-pandemic levels of visitor spending and record jobs and tax revenue for Washington, DC last year,” said Ferguson. “But it’s important to be aggressive to grow domestic market share and impact international and business travel. Additional funding through Tourism Recovery District legislation allows us to compete with other top-tier destinations with larger budgets.”

Universal Orlando Resort Reveals Details about New Area of Park

May 18, 2023—Universal Orlando Resort shared details about ways attendees can eat, laugh and make mischief with the Minions in the highly anticipated Minion Land on Illumination Ave., an immersive new area created in partnership between Universal’s award-winning creative team and the acclaimed filmmakers from Illumination. Opening this summer at Universal Studios Florida, the new land expands upon the wildly popular Despicable Me Minion Mayhem attraction and will debut a new collection of experiences inspired by the beloved Minions franchise for attendees to enjoy during their next in-park event.

As soon as attendees enter the land, they’ll be greeted by a fun, photo-worthy “Minion Land” marquee featuring 22 Minions before embarking on the mischief that awaits along Illumination Ave. Features include blasting their way to supervillain stardom in Illumination’s Villain-Con Minion Blast to savoring tasty dishes at the Minion Cafe to snacking on banana-flavored popcorn at Pop-a-Nana and meeting fan-favorite characters along the way.

This follows exciting news earlier in the year where the company announced plans to build a one-of-kind, original theme park for families with young children in Frisco, Texas.

Universal Orlando offers completely customizable meeting space and a variety of unique outdoor event venues to accommodate groups both large and small. 

United Airlines Pilots Picketing, Flights Not Affected as of 5/12

May 12, 2023—United Airlines pilots are picketing at the United Flight Training Center in Denver, along with nine other cities. United has struggled, along with other major airlines, with pilot re-hiring, canceled flights, and out-of-date software systems.

As of Friday, May 12, at 3:00 p.m. EST, there were no flight cancellations due to the picketing. United said on Thursday evening that, “All United flights will operate as planned while our pilots exercise their right to distribute information and picket while off-duty.” Check here for updates.

CWT Partners with Booking.com for Business

May 11, 2023—Global business travel and meetings specialist CWT has announced a new partnership with Booking.com for Business, designed to support small business customers. According to a press release, this partnership will includes discounted travel rates, access to membership rewards from third-party loyalty programs, as well as 24/7 travel agent support, to be provided by CWT.

“We understand everyone has different travel preferences,” said Joshua Wood, director of Booking.com for Business. “For some it’s important to maximize status and loyalty points when they travel, while others are more focused on finding the best deal for their trips. And when disruption happens, everybody values the ability to contact an agent any time of day or night to get support. With this partnership, Booking.com for Business customers will have all of this in one place, along with the tools to manage cost and duty of care with travel expert support wherever they are in the world 24/7.”

Powered by travel technology company Serko, the Booking.com for Business platform will combine Booking.com room options with CWT’s hotel, flight and car rental content.

This partnership is expected to go live in Q2 2023.

Dusit Hotels and Resorts Opens New Hotels in Thailand, Japan

May 11, 2023—The rapidly expanding Dusit International and its Dusit Hotels and Resorts brand is opening two new hotels in Bangkok, Thailand, including its first dusitD2, and opening its first hotel in Japan. Following the soft opening of dusitD2 on May 12th, Dusit will continue its expansion of its lifestyle brand ASAI Hotels by opening ASAI Bangkok Sathorn in the city’s business district on May 15th. For the third stage of the expansion, ASAI Kyoto Shijo will be opening in June, 2023 as the brand’s first hotel in Japan.

In a press release from Dusit International, Chief Operating Officer Gilles Cretallaz promoted the hotels and lifestyle brand.

“As we continue to execute our plan for domestic and global expansion, we are delighted to welcome three new hotels to our portfolio, including our first dusitD2 branded hotel in Bangkok, our second ASAI hotel in Bangkok, and our first hotel in Japan,” said Cretallaz. “These openings represent significant milestones for our company, and we are confident that their unique positioning and distinctive lifestyle and food and beverage experiences will resonate with travellers from around the world. As we gear up for these launches, we are excited about the future and look forward to making our mark in more key international markets.”

Read More: Luxury, Culture and White Lotus in Thailand

Jamaica Wins Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) Award for Resilience

May 10, 2023—Jamaica has been awarded the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s (CHTA’s) Destination Resilience Award for its recovery efforts during the COVID-19 Pandemic and tourism resilience-building initiatives.

The Caribbean Destination Resilience Award recognizes destinations with a deliberate focus on resilience as indicated by their commitments to address some or all of the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO’s) 17 sustainable development goals. Special emphasis is placed on highlighting destinations that subscribe to a collaborative and partnership-focused approach, engaging public and private sector stakeholders in innovative, needs-driven strategies.

The island, under the stewardship of the Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, created a Covid-19 Recovery Taskforce with public and private sector stakeholders. Based on the innovative initiatives from this Taskforce, Jamaica reopened its borders in June 2020 and never closed since.

In accepting the award, Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Edmund Bartlett said, “This award is for my entire tourism team and all our private and public sector partners who immediately saw the need to keep the lifeblood of the country open. From the minds and hard work of the team, Jamaica was first out of the blocks on the road to recovery.”

Michelin Launches First Philadelphia Guide

May 10, 2023—This spring, Michelin published its very first Philadelphia destination guide, highlighting the city’s top leisure travel experiences and calling it the “Frenchest American city.” The guide described The City of Brotherly Love as a place that “offers the perfect compromise between American excess and European spirit, not to mention all the appeal of a city packed with art, history, and a cultural effervescence few people expect.”

The guide editors also list their “top picks” for dining, including classic cheesesteak spots like Campo’s and Ishkabibble’s and new favorites like South Philly Barbacoa and Her Place. Of Philadelphia’s food scene, the guide says, “the city offers many mouthwatering reasons for foodies to make a beeline for Philly.”

The guide will be available in both French and English language editions.

Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority Begins $600 Million Convention Center Renovation 

May 9, 2023—Tourism and business leaders joined today at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) to kick off a $600 million renovation of the facility’s legacy campus. The renovation extends the contemporary design, architecture, and customer experience of the 1.4 million square foot West Hall, which debuted in 2021. Work will continue through 2025, with construction designed to accommodate and minimize disruption to scheduled tradeshows.

“We have been the number one tradeshow destination for nearly three decades, and we are committed to being the number one tradeshow destination for another three decades,” said Steve Hill president and CEO of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA). “This renovation will provide our customers with an experience that will make them want to come back year after year.”

Some key highlights of the renovation include:

• The continuation of the signature West Hall exterior ribbon roof will create architectural cohesion across the entire campus.
• An outdoor plaza and indoor lobby at the South Hall will create a sense of arrival and provide direct access to new pre-function space and a second-floor boardroom.
• A climate-controlled interior concourse between the North Hall and the South Hall will provide interior access across the entire campus.
• An expansive Grand Lobby between the North and Central halls will offer ample natural light and views of both halls.
• A newly designed parking lot outside of Central Hall (Silver Lot) will feature a Vegas Loop station to transport guests to/from Wynn and Encore (expected to debut in Spring 2024).
• Innovative technology, including sleek, digital displays, digital pylon signs, wayfinding, and interactive information kiosks throughout the facility.
• Technology upgrades will result in upgraded electrical access for tradeshow organizers and exhibitors and increased connectivity for guests.

 

Health Care Center Opens in Orange County Convention Center

May 9, 2023—Orlando Health, a non-profit healthcare organization serving southeastern United States, and Visit Orlando, the Official Tourism Association for Orlando, have partnered to launch the Orlando Health Virtual Care Center inside the Orange County Convention Center. At the Virtual Care Center, located in the West Building, near the Visit Orlando Welcome Center in the central lobby, medical providers will be able to evaluate medical conditions for attendees during large conventions.

“High-quality healthcare is conveniently accessible for conference attendees through the Orlando Health Virtual Care Center,” said Thibaut van Marcke, senior vice president of Orlando Health’s southeast region and president of Orlando Health Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. “A board-certified physician will assess patients with minor conditions so they can resume their activities at the convention center and enjoy the rest of their visit in Orlando.”

LVE Named Nevada Family-owned Small Business of the Year

May 9, 2023—The Nevada Small Business Administration presented trade show management company LVE with the 2023 Nevada Family-Owned Small Business of the Year award at their annual luncheon at the Westgate Hotel in Las Vegas this week.

Nicholas Cordaro, president of LVE, accepted the award on behalf of his sister, Jennifer, and their father Robert. Together, they lead an exposition company with 96 full-time employees and 145,000 sq. ft. of warehouse space in Las Vegas. In addition to the company’s Las Vegas headquarters, LVE has offices in Nashville, New Jersey, and Orlando.

San Luis Obispo Tourism Industry Hits Record Travel Revenue

May 8, 2023—The Destination Marketing and Management Organization for San Luis Obispo County announced Monday that the total revenue for 2022 reached $2.15 billion in direct travel spending, surpassing the previous record of $2.02 billion set in 2019, according to a press release.

“We are ecstatic to share the news of our record-breaking year for tourism,” said Chuck Davison, President and CEO of Visit SLO CAL. “Tourism is the number two economic driver in the region, second only to agriculture. Travel impacts every sector of business and supports local economies across the globe, including right here in SLO CAL. Visitors support numerous sectors across SLO CAL including accommodations, transportation, food and beverage, attractions, retail and more. Between the taxes tourism generates and the local businesses it supports, tourism plays an important role in positively contributing to the quality of life for our residents.”

In addition, the total number of visitors to the county in 2022 were just shy of those in 2019, indicating that the travelers spent more in 2022 while generating $116 million in local tax revenue.

ASAE announces Shape Your Purpose Theme for Atlanta Annual

May 5, 2023—The theme of ASAE’s 2023 Annual Meeting & Exposition Aug. 5-8 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta will be “Shape Your Purpose,” which recognizes the unique approach that associations take when defining their personal and organizational purpose. Over three days, the ASAE Annual Meeting will provide a unique opportunity to partake in authentic, engaging, thought-provoking, and positive experiences for attendees that support the power of the association community to shape a better future for the industries they serve and for the world we share.

“As we prepare to welcome the association community to Atlanta this summer, ASAE is focused on creating a transformational experience for our attendees,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “When we look at the changing world in which we operate, associations should be at the forefront of innovation, workforce development, culture-building and influence. The ASAE Annual Meeting is going to deliver an inclusive, immersive environment for association professionals to learn, grow and shape their purpose.”

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Announces December 2023 Opening

May 5, 2023 —Fontainebleau Development announced in a recruitment press release that it would be opening the 67-story, integrated luxury resort and casino Fontainebleau Las Vegas in December. Development Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Soffer called the expansion the closing of the circle for the company’s longtime vision of hosting its brand on the Las Vegas Strip. “We are grateful to have the opportunity to finish what we started and finally introduce the iconic Fontainebleau brand into one of the world’s largest hospitality destinations,” he said in an earlier release.

International Travel Requirements for COVID-19 End May 11th

May 3, 2023 — The White House announced in a brief this week that COVID-19 related travel bans such as vaccination requirements for Federal employees, Federal contractors and international travelers will be ending on May 11th. Citing statistics reflecting COVID-19 related death rates decreased by 95% and hospitalizations decreased by 21%, The White House released a brief announcing the success of the previous health protocols that have been taken and the confidence in lifting the regulations and restrictions for international travelers.

Today, we are announcing that the Administration will end the COVID-19 vaccine requirements for Federal employees, Federal contractors, and international air travelers at the end of the day on May 11, the same day that the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.

Caesars Entertainment Announces Plans to Renovate Tower at Paris Las Vegas

May 2, 2023—Caesars Entertainment on Tuesday announced plans to renovate the Jubilee Tower at Horseshoe Las Vegas, which will include a new interior and exterior, according to a press release.

The Jubilee Tower will be replaced by the new Versailles Tower, introducing 756 redesigned luxury guestrooms and a pedestrian bridge connecting the Versailles Tower to the existing Paris resort. The renovations will exceed $100 million and will integrate the new tower into Paris Las Vegas, according to a press release.

“We know our guests, especially our Caesars Rewards members, love Paris Las Vegas. Over the past year we’ve made significant enhancements to elevate the destination, bringing new concepts like Vanderpump à Paris, Nobu, The Bedford by Martha Stewart and most recently, a completely renovated sportsbook,” said Regional President of Caesars Entertainment, Sean McBurney. “The addition of the Versailles Tower makes Paris one of the largest resorts in the heart of The Strip. The interior and exterior will be completely reimagined and transformed into some of the best rooms in Las Vegas. When it opens this fall, our guests will have easy access to the incredible restaurants and gaming options they have grown to love at Paris Las Vegas.”

The tower renovations are slated for completion in late 2023 with the expected completion of the pedestrian bridge to follow in early 2024.

MGM Resorts Launches Touring Candlelight Concert Series

May 1, 2023—MGM Resorts International is launching a Candlelight Concert Series and philanthropic effort to celebrate its meetings and conventions clients throughout the United States. Benefitting Save The Music Foundation, the invite-only events provide clients a one-of-a-kind experience demonstrating MGM Resorts’ position as a leader in live entertainment and its commitment to serving and uplifting communities. The series kicked off at the Wimbish House in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Candlelight Concert Series will travel to additional markets across the country through July, entertaining MGM Resorts’ clients in, Chicago, Boston, New York, Dallas, Los Angeles and Minneapolis. Guests can expect an unforgettable night of contemporary music performed by a string quartet, with each concert focusing on the musical portfolio of Beyonce, Coldplay or “From Bach to Beatles.” Presented by leading live-entertainment discovery platform Fever, performances are hosted in intimate, awe-inspiring venues completely illuminated by candlelight.

“The Candlelight Concert Series reflects MGM Resorts’ dedication to our customers and their communities by creating unparalleled entertainment experiences not just in Las Vegas, but around the country,” said Stephanie Glanzer, senior vice president and chief sales officer for MGM Resorts.

At the conclusion of the series, a donation will be made on behalf of attendees to Save The Music Foundation, a nonprofit committed to helping students, schools and communities reach their full potential through the power of making music. For 25 years, Save The Music has invested in public schools across the nation to ensure communities receive equitable access to music education resources. MGM Resorts’ donation will be presented during the Candlelight concert in Los Angeles on Thursday, June 22, with proceeds directly supporting an under-resourced music program for a Mississippi-based middle school.

Kimpton Pittman Hotel Dallas Announces New Director of Sales and Marketing

May 1, 2023—The Kimpton Pittman Hotel Dallas on Monday announced Bill Jordan, an award-winning sales executive and veteran of the hospitality industry, will take the reins as the new director of sales and marketing for the boutique-brand hotel, according to a press release.

“Bill is a highly accomplished professional and a true asset to our team, his expertise in sales and marketing, combined with his years of hotel experience will be an invaluable resource to The Kimpton Pittman Hotel Dallas,” said General Manager Rajeev Gopalakrishnan. “We are looking forward to working together and elevating the presence of both the hotel and our acclaimed restaurant, Elm & Good.”

Jordan formerly served as director of operations, complex director of sales and marketing, and director of sales and marketing at Omni Houston Hotel at Westside. “I am deeply honored to be part of such an iconic and innovative brand at The historic Kimpton Pittman Hotel Dallas,” Jordan said. “Together with our talented team, I look forward to showcasing the unique offerings of our property and creating incredible memories for our guests.

FAA Activates New Routes Along East Coast

May 1, 2023—The Federal Aviation Administration on Monday announced 169 new and direct routes along the East Coast ahead of the busy summer travel season with the goal of saving travelers time and money while improving fuel efficiency and safety, according to a press release.

“These significant improvements to our national airspace system are just in time for summer and will help travelers get to their destinations more efficiently,” according to Tim Arel, chief operating officer of the FAA’s Air Traffic Organization. “The new routes will reduce complexity and redistribute volume across all available airspace. I’m proud of the FAA and industry’s strong collaboration on this project to get it done.”

The new routes are expected to reduce annual travel time and distance by 6,000 minutes and 40,000 miles while also providing controllers with more flexibility during instances of extreme weather.

Windham Mountain Announces Upgrades to Historic Catskill Resort

April 27, 2023—Windham Mountain announced Thursday that the 60-year-old resort will invest in further improvements to enhance the guest experience through the implementation of a multi-year plan, according to a press release.

The goal of the plan is to provide access to skiing with minimal lift lines, improve the current food and beverage offerings with the redevelopment of all concessions along with the addition of a mid-mountain, Italian Alps-style concept expected by fall 2023. The plan also calls for the creation of additional townhomes and lots for land development and enhanced membership offerings for the existing Members Club while expanding the existing Golf Course as well as other resort amenities and activities.

“Windham Mountain has remained an independent, multi-generational destination for over six decades and the natural beauty of the town of Windham and surrounding mountains provides a fitting platform to offer great hospitality and memorable experiences, which is our passion,” Sandy Beall, Founder, Beall Investment Partners said. “We are grateful to help support Windham Mountain’s evolution and the integral role it plays in the town and broader Catskills community.”

Marriott Announces First 19 Projects Under Bridging the Gap Program

April 26, 2023—Marriott International has announced its first 19 projects that will receive financial support through its Bridging the Gap program.

The program, which will include Marriott’s Aloft Hotels, Autograph Collection, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Residence Inn, SpringHill Suites, TownePlace Suite and Tribute Portfolio brands, was announced in 2022 and aims to build a more diverse Marriott ownership and franchisee community among Black, Native American and women owners, according to a press release.

“We see hotel ownership as a powerful economic generator—creating good jobs and revenue in the community and an on-ramp to prosperity and intergenerational wealth for hotel owners,” said Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International. “Today’s announcement is all about creating  opportunity – and as the name of this program suggests—bridging the gap to hotel ownership that too often exists for underrepresented groups. “I want to congratulate all of these future hotel owners and thank them for working with us to realize their dreams and ours.”

This initial investment from Marriott is $50 million. In total, the company is expected to reach $1 billion in development projects under the program within three years. To qualify, projects may be new, relicenses or conversion projects in the United States or Canada under any of Marriott’s 30 brands.

ASAE Research Foundation Announces John H. Graham Fund Scholarships for ReadyMe Program

April 26, 2023—The ASAE Research Foundation has announced it will utilize the John H. Graham Fund to award 20 scholarships to deserving applicants pursuing professional and personal development through ASAE’s ReadyMe Program. The scholarship application portal is now open through May 21, 2023. Applicants are required to respond to five written DEI topic prompts. Once the application process is closed, a steering and selection committee will select the 20 recipients. All applicants will be informed of selection no later than June 2, 2023.

FAA Announces Independent Safety Review Board

April 26, 2023—The Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday announced an independent safety review team that will be responsible for the review and reliability of the United State’s air traffic system, according to a press release. The group has been tasked with performing an extensive assessment in order to present concrete recommendations on how the FAA can enhance air traffic safety.

“We are committed to maintaining the safest period in U.S. aviation history,” said Acting Administrator Billy Nolen. “This team will strengthen our ongoing safety efforts and identify specific investments we can make to bolster the National Airspace System.”

The group will begin its assessment in May and is expected to complete its work by October 2023.

ASAE Names 2023 Class of Fellows

April 25, 2023—ASAE today announced five association leaders to the 2023 class of Fellows program. The annual program confers honorary recognition upon association leaders who have made significant contributions to their organizations and association communities, according to a press release.

“Congratulations to the 2023 class of Fellows. The Fellows program is among ASAE’s highest honors, recognizing individuals who have made a significant impact on the association community through outstanding volunteer service and inspiring leadership,” said Janice Lachance, FASAE, executive vice president for strategic leadership and global outreach at the American Geophysical Union and chair of the ASAE Fellows. “These five professionals join a cadre of leaders who have made extraordinary contributions to ASAE and are thought leaders for the entire association community.” The 2023 Fellows will be inducted during the annual ASAE Fellows Retreat in June in Vancouver.

Danielle Baron, MA, MBA, FASAE, CAE

Vice President, Marketing, Communications and Industry Relations

School Nutrition Association

Michael Dominguez, FASAE, CHSE

President and CEO

Associated Luxury Hotels International

Tori Miller Liu, MBA, FASAE, CAE

CEO

Association for Intelligent Information Management

Debra McGuire, MBA, FASAE, CAE, IOM

Executive Director

International Association of Assessing Officers

Bob Moore, MA, MS, FASAE, CAE

Executive Director

American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians

Leading SaaS Company Integrates with Cvent

April 21, 2023—Bizly, an enterprise technology platform focused on small, simple, self-service meetings and events today announced its integration with Cvent, as well as its listing on the Cvent App Marketplace, according to a press release.

“In today’s hybrid workforce, small meetings are more important than ever and joining our Bizly solutions together with Cvent through this integration is a natural next step in our evolution as we look to best support our mutual customers,” CEO of Bizly Ron Shah said. “The integration allows any Cvent customer to embed Bizly into their meeting request form process and consolidate data in a powerful way.”

Cvent users can access Bizly from the meeting request form (MRF), import contacts, and consolidate and match Bizly data into their preferred tool. Bizly customers will initially be able to link data from a Cvent instance directly into the small meetings platform through various APIs.

Experience Kissimmee Announces Sustainability Initiatives

April 19, 2023—Experience Kissimmee, the official tourism authority for Osceola County, FL, introduced a new sustainability program with Trees4Travel, an initiative to plant trees to help with creating future forests, restoring eco-systems, and supporting biodiversity and local communities. Plus, an investment is made into a United Nations renewable energy carbon credit, which will help reduce a portion of the meeting organizations’ CO2 emissions. For instance, if a meeting organization actualizes 1,500 paid room nights in Kissimmee, Experience Kissimmee will plant 1,500 trees through the Trees4Travel hybrid program. The meeting organization will receive a certificate of Planet & People Positive Action, which includes a UN CER certificate, post-meeting.

“We are proud to be amongst the first DMOs in the nation to offer a carbon reduction program for meetings and conventions,” said Michelle Moore, senior director of meetings sales and services at Experience Kissimmee.

KSL Resorts Unveils New Sustainability Program

April 19, 2023—KSL Resorts announced today it has launched a new sustainability program called “On Purpose” to be rolled out amongst its portfolio of 11 destination hotels and resorts, including Camelback Resort (Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania); Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, California; Fairmont Grand Del Mar (San Diego, California); Silverado Resort and Spa (Napa, California); and Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina.

While the name and framework are new, the program reinforces existing companywide sustainability initiatives. “All of our properties have increasingly adapted green practices in recent years—making dramatic improvements—but we are thrilled to make it official by introducing this forward-thinking new platform,” said Ian Pullan, executive vice president of asset management west, who is leading the charge. “Focused on reducing KSL Resorts’ overall carbon footprint, On Purpose was carefully designed to drive positive change and reduce carbon emissions—by both guests and staff—via four core initiatives.”

Measurable initiatives include:

• Carbon Offsetting—the goal is to reduce energy consumption by 10% in 2023 over the previous year.
• Single Use Materials—the goal is to eliminate all single use materials at participating resorts by the end of 2023.
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—the goal is 20% waste diversion for each participating property.
• Water Usage—the goal is 5% reduction in water usage by each participating property, with water consumption audits to be conducted companywide.

Explore Seattle Southside Introduces New Logo, Campaign

April 17, 2023—Explore Seattle Southside (Seattle Southside Regional Tourism Authority) announced a fresh brand update and cheeky new advertising campaign today.

Seattle Southside, the region made up of SeaTac, Tukwila and Des Moines, has given itself a fresh look with a brand update that offers a refreshed perspective on the destination as the travel industry opens back up post-pandemic. Its new look and personality encourage travelers to get off the beaten path and discover some of Washington State’s quirkier hidden gems.

“Coming out of the pandemic, research has shown people are more interested in exciting quick hits of adventures, as opposed to just booking big trips, so the entire body of work leans into the idea of curiously wonderful microadventures” says Explore Seattle Southside CEO Mark Everton.

In addition to the new brand identity, a series of videos is accompanying the new look. Leaning into the idea of “microadventures,” each video is micro in its own way. One content series gives viewers a cheeky guide to microadventures in Seattle Southside in a few microseconds. Another whimsical animated spot shows one microadventure leading to another, while a final video shows a micro-travel toiletry travel kit to help travelers discover all the many microadventures.

Visit Greater Palm Springs Introduces New Certified Autism Centers

April 12, 2023—Visit Greater Palm Springs (VGPS) on Wednesday announced new additions to the destination’s growing list of tourism, recreational and hospitality organizations that have earned the designation of becoming a Certified Autism Center (CAC), with the goal of ensuring that inclusive options are available to guests visiting the region in an effort to recognize Autism Awareness Month, according to a press release.

“Visit Greater Palm Springs’ recognition as a Certified Autism Center in 2022 was an important first step in preparing our tourism and community partners to provide the best possible experience for our autistic travelers and their families,” said Scott White, president and CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springs. “As we recognize Autism Awareness Month, we are honored to add to the ever-growing list of Certified Autism Centers and encourage our partners in the local tourism community to join us in serving this very important group of travelers.”

The CAC designation is awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to organizations that have completed autism training with the purpose of helping organizations better understand and welcome autistic travelers and their companions.

The new organizations to achieve the CAC designations include the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens and the Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory. “The Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory wants all patrons, residents, and visitors to feel welcomed. Our staff is appreciative to become an Autism Certified location, whether to pick up a book, attend a program or gaze at the stars at our Observatory, we look forward to serving you,” said Aaron Espinoza, director of the library and observatory.

Atlanta Market Expands Gifting

April 12, 2023—The largest in-person gift marketplace in the country will expand its collection of more than 700 gift and lifestyle permanent showrooms this summer with 16 updates at AmericasMart Atlanta. Gift resources as diverse as gourmet, housewares, tabletop and outdoor living are featured on 19 floors of space spread out over three buildings. TRVL Design travel bags are new this year along with expanded areas for Tremont Floral supplies and The Light Garden.

As part of Atlanta Next, the lobby and arrival experience are being updated along with improvements spread out over the 7.2 million-square-foot campus.

LVCVA Honors Outstanding Hospitality Worker, Announces Record Visitor Spending

April 11, 2023—At its April Board of Directors meeting today, LVCVA named Abriana Buffolino, special events and filming supervisor at Fremont Street Experience, the first Hospitality Hero of 2023. Buffolino was nominated for her commitment to ensuring the iconic attraction shines onscreen and during its many live concerts and events. In her seven years with Fremont Street Experience, she has overseen more than 100 filmings and special events. The Hospitality Heroes recognition program continues to celebrate the outstanding hospitality workers who are the backbone of the tourism industry and nominations represent all facets of the Las Vegas experience.

At the same meeting, Applied Analysis Principal Brian Gordon shared that the total economic output related to visitor spending reached a record $79.3 billion in 2022, a 24.7%  increase from the previous record set in 2019. Southern Nevada’s tourism industry remained the largest regional employer in 2022, directly employing an estimated 229,440 workers. Convention visitor spending directly supported an estimated 38,120 jobs, $2.1 billion in wages and $7.5 billion in economic impact.

Gordon attributed Las Vegas’ unprecedented growth and strong rebound following the pandemic was driven by pent-up travel demand and the addition of new resorts, professional sporting events and venues such as Allegiant Stadium.

Drury Hotels Celebrates 50 Year Anniversary

April 11, 2023—Drury Hotels Company, a family-owned company based in St. Louis, Missouri, is celebrating 50 years of business this month. The company now operates 150 hotels in 26 states under the brands Drury Inn & Suites, Drury Inns, Drury Plaza Hotels and Pear Tree Inns. Last December, Drury Hotels opened the 604-room Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando in the Disney Springs Area of Florida as an official Walt Disney World Hotel. In the past five years, Drury Hotels has opened 16 new properties, including locations in downtown Nashville, Tennessee; Milwaukee; Richmond, Virginia; St. Paul, Minnesota; and Dallas. Three new hotels are currently under construction in Tallahassee, Florida; Savannah, Georgia; and Arlington, Texas.

Leader in Upcycling Seaweed Lands $5M in Series A Funding

April 7, 2023—Carbonwave, the leading organization in upcycling the troublesome seaweed known as Sargassum, which grows in a region spanning the Atlantic, has secured $5 million in Series A funding led by Mirova, according to a press release.

Carbonwave is leading the effort in utilizing Sargassum for an array of products including fertilizer, textiles, cosmetics and bioplastics among others.

“In three short years, we’ve become the first company to build a scalable cascading biorefinery to create a commercially sustainable operation harnessing Sargassum into high-value products,” said Geoff Chapin, co-founder and CEO of Carbonwave. “Support from our investors and partners has allowed us to catalyze our proprietary technology and manufacturing process to turn the Caribbean’s seaweed crisis into an economic opportunity and a climate solution. We are producing viable alternatives that redirect demand from fossil fuel-based products by cost-effectively developing a wide range of regenerative, low-carbon, and plant-based alternatives that global industries are seeking to advance their sustainability and decarbonization initiatives, while contributing to the bio-circular economy.”

Mirova is an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, which is dedicated to sustainable investment, with additional participation from Viridios Capital, Popular Impact Fund and Katapult Ocean. The latest round of funding brings the total investment in Carbonwave to $12 million to date and will be used to construct a large-scale cosmetics emulsifier production facility in Puerto Rico in response to the growing consumer demand for biomaterials.

ConferenceDirect Celebrates 25 Years with Brand Refresh, Leadership Change

April 6, 2023—At their Annual Partner Meeting at The Galt House in Louisville, Kentucky, ConferenceDirect announced their brand refresh in honor of their 25^th anniversary and a change in leadership. The full-service global meetings solution company’s new tag line is “Your Global Partner for Meetings & Events” and the mission statement is “ConferenceDirect partners with organizations to help them achieve their goals and create memorable experiences for their attendees. With proven global experience, professionalism, and innovative meetings solutions our team is committed to your success.”

At the event, ConferenceDirect founder and CCEO Brian Stevens announced he will now serve as executive chairman. Jerry Horan, current President and Chief Operating Officer, will now serve as President and Chief Executive Officer.

ConferenceDirect’s more than 450 associates manage over 13,000 meetings, conferences and events for more than 4,400 customers.

Fairmont San Francisco and Accor’s All Heartist Fund Announce Partnership with La Casa de las Madres

April 6, 2023—Fairmont San Francisco and parent company Accor provided a $15,000 grant to San Francisco’s La Casa de las Madres. Accor’s ALL Heartist Fund, which in addition to supporting employees affected by the pandemic, has enabled the organization to support non-profit organizations focused on supporting and protecting communities most vulnerable populations that were further impacted by Covid-19. La Casa de las Madres is a Bay Area leader in the fight to end violence against women and children. Uninterrupted by the coronavirus pandemic, La Casa is San Francisco’s most comprehensive source of safety, support and resources to break the cycle of violence. The group provides over half the city’s emergency domestic violence beds; and they are the only organization enabling access to safety 24 hours a day, 365 days a year; and run an active Drop In Center with wide-ranging outreach initiatives empowering 26,000 community members over the past two years. La Casa’s mission is to respond to calls for help from domestic violence victims, of all ages, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They provide survivors the tools to transform their lives and seek to prevent future violence by educating the community and by redefining public perceptions about domestic violence. Every day, they are building bridges to safe, healthy, thriving lives for women, teens, and children.

Grant funds will support the direct costs of delivering emergency shelter-based domestic violence family, women, and children’s services. The $15,000 grant will fund the equivalent of 165 days and nights of refuge and safety—an average 3-week stay for four (4) moms and their children who are escaping imminent danger, healing from the trauma of abuse, and preparing for their next steps into supported, violence-free lives.  This includes 24-hour support, comprehensive case management, and therapeutic interventions.

Hyatt Launches Planner-centric Event Experience Guides

April 5, 2023—Hyatt Hotels Corporation has launched the Event Experience Guides by Together by Hyatt. This has been designed to be an interactive online platform for meeting professionals, where they will have access to menus, sustainability practices, well-being experiences, event space, guest room details and more at select Hyatt properties.

According to a press release, the Event Experience Guides will offer the following:

• Real-time information available 24/7, streamlining the communication between property teams and meeting planners by ensuring all resources can be found in one place
• A dynamic and easy-to-navigate user interface that showcases all information a planner could possibly need to execute a successful meeting and event such as venue photography, capacity charts, detailed floor plans of event spaces and exclusive preferred vendor options
• Curated food and beverage menus unique to each location, with Hyatt’s “Food. Thoughtfully Sourced. Carefully Served.” philosophy incorporated, including local and responsible sourcing, plant-forward choices, seasonal flavors and balanced portions
• Carefully assembled “Sustainability Fact Sheets” customized by hotel, highlighting how they are addressing climate change and water conservation, waste and circularity as well as responsible sourcing
• Access to renowned wellbeing specialists through videos available for meetings and events, offering an opportunity for attendees to prioritize their wellbeing as part of their event experience
• Time-saving Event Success Guidelines and technology resources which include the Hotel Resource Guide, providing answers to planner’s most frequently asked questions

“We aspire to be the hospitality brand of creativity, flexibility and care, and our Event Experience Guides are created with the intention of simplifying event planning and execution by making information accessible in one convenient location, ensuring our meeting planners and attendees feel that they are at the center and in booking with us, their event will exceed expectations,” said Steve Enselein, senior vice president of events at Hyatt.

As of March 31, 2023, Event Experience Guides are available at Hyatt properties Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Regency, Andaz, Park Hyatt, Thompson Hotels and Hyatt Centric. For access to Hyatt’s Event Experience Guides, planners must reach out to the respective property’s event team.

Destinations International Foundation Announces 2023 30 Under 30

April 4, 2023—Destinations International Foundation and Destinations International (DI) announced the 13th annual 2023 30 Under 30 class, a group of young professionals in the destination marketing organization industry.

“The 30 Under 30 program remains critical to our organization’s vision and mission,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “These talented individuals represent DI’s global footprint, with representation from Asia, Canada, Europe, Latin America and the United States. We can’t wait to recognize and celebrate them this summer at our annual convention in July.”

The 2023 30 Under 30 Class includes:

• Joey Bell, public relations and social media manager, Visit Tampa Bay
• Elizabeth Boylan, sales manager, New York City Tourism + Conventions
• Tom Carton, strategy and operations, Hello Burlington
• Demi Cimiaskaite, senior marketing manager, Visit Eau Claire
• Tim Crouson, CRM administrator, Destination Ann Arbor
• Kathryn Shea Duncan, director of social media, Visit Lake Charles
• Karly Dwenger, senior marketing manager, Travel Butler County, Ohio
• Molly Evans, senior manager, business events, VisitPITTSBURGH
• Ari Hamilton-Gery, corporate communications manager, Visit Baltimore
• Joy IM, assistant manager, Goyang Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Jerry Joseph, convention services manager, Destination DC
• Patti Krausert, director of research and data strategy, Tulsa Regional Tourism
• Catherine McCooey, marketing manager, Tourism Burnaby
• Katie Rhoads, marketing manager, Visit Loudoun
• Enya Rice, assistant marketing manager, VisitScotland
• Coralis Rivera, manager, integrated marketing and social media, Brand USA
• Yuliana Ruiz Velasquez, meetings industry executive, Greater Medellin Convention and Visitors Bureau
• Lauren Saizan, editorial and online content manager, New Orleans & Company
• Becca Schmiegel, marketing manager, Visit Indy
• Zoey Shircel, associate manager, media relations, Visit Mesa
• Megan Temple, senior director of partner and community engagement, Travel Lane County
• Julia Thomson, specialist, destination development, Ottawa Tourism
• Anjelica Uthe, executive director, Visit Watertown (Watertown, SD CVB)
• Mai Der Vang, human resources Specialist, VISIT Milwaukee
• Andrew Vela, project specialist, Visit Dallas
• Lydia Wilder, director of operations and service, Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Austin Wingle, graphic design manager, Visit Tri-Cities
• Cody Wiseman, creative marketing manager, Visit Rapid City
• Glorianna Yamin, marketing director, Discover Puerto Rico
• Madison Yohn, Content Coordinator, Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

Radisson Blu Mall of America Pioneers Carbon Capture Technology

March 28, 2023—CenterPoint Energy and Radisson Blu Mall of America, part of Choice Hotels International Inc., announced the groundbreaking installation of a carbon-capture technology unit, CarbinX™, developed by CleanO2. This marks the first hotel in the world to use this innovative system that captures greenhouse gas emissions from heating equipment. The installation is part of a program by CenterPoint Energy, Minnesota’s largest natural gas utility, to explore the potential of new, cleaner energy technologies.

The size of about two home refrigerators, the CarbinX device is connected directly to the flue of the hotel’s natural gas water heating equipment, where it cap­­tures carbon dioxide (CO₂) and converts it to a nontoxic carbonate powder known as pearl ash. CleanO2, the manufacturer of CarbinX, collects the pearl ash and recycles it as a key ingredient in commercial products such as soaps and detergents. The products are sold online at CleanO2.ca to customers in the U.S. and Canada. They are also sold through several retail chains and boutiques in Canada. Radisson Blu MOA also expects to reduce its energy bill because the CarbinX unit recycles heat, increasing efficiency in the water heating system to achieve both energy and cost savings.

New York City Tourism + Conventions Launched as New Name for NYC DMO

March 28, 2023—At its annual meeting today, President and CEO Fred Dixon debuted the name New York City Tourism + Conventions as the brand identity for the City’s official destination marketing organization and convention and visitors bureau for the five boroughs.

The debut of the new brand was launched in conjunction with a social campaign, #WHATSGOODNYC, harnessing the “opinion power” of the City’s 8.5 million New Yorkers, offering them a chance to share their points of view on “what’s good” and what to experience. Tapping into travelers’ desire for authentic experiences, the foundation and strength of the new branding comes from its genuine, enthusiastic perspectives shared by a diverse mix of locals, highlighting New York City Tourism + Conventions’ role in amplifying these opinions to help travelers have a richer experience in NYC. The campaign offers insights, tips, recommended activities and excursions through various channels to engage and encourage visitors and locals to explore all New York City has to offer.

“With over 56 million visitors to the five boroughs last year, fueling tens of billions of dollars in spending for our local economy, New York City is not coming back, it is back,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

Kempinski Hotels Appoints New VP of Food and Beverage

March 27, 2023—International luxury hotel group, Kempinski Hotels, on Monday announced Jean-Marc Dizerens has been appointed as the brand’s new vice president of food and beverage. With over 25 years of experience as a hotelier, Dizerens was formerly vice president of hospitality, food and beverage of SJM Resorts in Macau where he played a pivotal role in the launch of the Grand Lisboa Palace that includes two fashion luxury-branded hotels, The Karl Lagerfeld and The Palazzo Versace, according to a press release.

Hawaiian Airlines Enters into Sustainable Aviation Fuel Agreement

March 24, 2023—Hawaiian Airlines reached an agreement with biofuel company Gevo Inc., purchasing 50 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) over five years. Gevo expects to begin delivering the fuel to Hawaiian starting in 2029, from a facility in the United States’ Midwest region.

Gevo will produce SAF with residual starch made from inedible field corn. “This offtake agreement gets us one step closer to achieving our goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050,” said Peter Ingram, Hawaiian’s president and CEO. “We intend to continue to invest in SAF, which will be pivotal in reducing our impact on the environment.”

Viceroy Partners with Out & Equal

March 23, 2023—Viceroy Hotels & Resorts announced its official partnership with Out & Equal Workplace Advocates (O&E), a nonprofit organization working exclusively on LGBTQ+ workplace equality. O&E will provide Viceroy with LGBTQ+ executive leadership development, comprehensive Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) training and consultation, and opportunities for professional networking that create and sustain inclusive and welcoming work environments. This partnership builds upon Viceroy for Everyone which is Viceroy’s ongoing pledge of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for its colleagues and guests, and cements their long-term commitment to meaningful workplace equality.

360 Destination Group Expands Into Nashville Market

March 23, 2023—360 Destination Group (360DG) announced today that it is expanding into Music City with the launch of their local Nashville office to cater to corporate groups in Tennessee. All of 360DG 18 locations are operated by local destination experts well-versed in the city’s venues, vendors, and experiences. Opening an office in Nashville included hiring and onboarding a local DMC team of knowledgeable and experienced event professionals.

Ashley Dye, account executive for 360DG’s Nashville office, said, “Nashville’s energy is absolutely incredible, and sharing it with corporate groups is the best part of my job! When clients come here, I make sure they get the true Nashville experience; that means showing off not just Broadway, but also all of the other hidden gems around town.”

FAA Addresses Safety Concerns

March 22, 2023—Following several recent incidents risking flight safety, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) held a Safety Summit last week. A safety alert for operators has been issued today with detailed requirements for airlines, pilots and all others in the industry to follow. Issues such as runway collision risk, landing safety and air traffic control issues were addressed in the press release.

Visit Ventura Donates Surfboards After Smart Meetings Experience

March 20, 2023—During a Smart Meetings National 3-Day Extraordinary Experience held at Mandalay Beach Zachari Dunes, destination representatives and meeting planners gathered for a Surfboard Team Building Experience sponsored by Visit Ventura and Walden Surfboards. Participants decorated the surfboards with visuals and messages inspired to inspire. Recipients of the surfboards were encouraged to make use of their surfboards however it would fit their needs. The 10 organizations that received a donated surfboard include Westside Community Development Corporation (WCDC), STEMbassadors, the Ventura YMCA, Channel Islands Marine and Wildlife Institution (CIMWI), Surfrider Foundation, FoodShare, A Walk on Water, Ventura Land Trust, Canine Adoption and Rescue League (C.A.R.L.), and DATA Middle School’s Makerspace Program in partnership with Merito Foundation.

“We [are] planning on raffling off our surfboard, and using the funds to support our newest Westside Mural,” said Kendra Gonzalez, WCDC Executive Director. “Our funding is currently super limited, and we plan on using the money to help disenfranchised teens develop our future mural. The proposed site is Doc’s Market, and the process can be quite expensive. With your help, we will be able to make this dream come true.”

Like WCDC, many of the recipients plan to put their donated surfboard up as a raffle item during a fundraising event. Ventura YMCA, Ventura Land Trust, C.A.R.L., Surfrider Foundation, and FoodShare will use their donated surfboards for their fundraising efforts. Other organizations will put their surfboard to use in the water. Students from DATA Middle School will use the surfboard during their surfing lessons made possible from the Merito Foundation partnership. A Walk on Water will also use the surfboard during their Ventura surf therapy event for children with special needs this May. A recap of the event can be seen here.

Caesars Entertainment’s Atlantic City Donates $100,000 to Hope Exists Foundation

March 20, 2023—Leadership from Caesars Entertainment’s Atlantic City resorts, including Caesars, Tropicana, and Harrah’s Resort, presented the Hope Exists Foundation with a $100,000 donation on behalf of the Caesars Foundation to support crisis treatment and services.

“We are humbled to have the opportunity to support the Hope Exists Foundation and its goal to help those suffering from substance use disorders and mental health,” said John Koster, eastern regional president of Caesars Entertainment. The donation will help fund the organization’s Hope Exists mobile response that will be dedicated to meeting individuals where they are and connecting them to critical support and treatment in Atlantic City.

Atlas Air Worldwide Acquired by Investor Group

March 20, 2023—Atlas Air Worldwide, a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services, announced an investor group including Apollo, along with affiliates of J.F. Lehman & Company and Hill City Capital, has finalized its acquisition of the company previously announced in August, according to a press release.

“Today marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Atlas, and we are eager to begin our partnership with Apollo, J.F. Lehman and Hill City,” Atlas Air Worldwide President and Chief Executive Officer John Dietrich said. “With the support and resources of our investor partners, we are well-positioned to achieve our growth objectives while continuing to serve the increasingly complex global supply chain. I want to thank the entire Atlas team, whose customer focus and dedication made this milestone possible. I look forward to the opportunities this next phase provides for our Company and our employees.”

Atlas Air Worldwide will continue to maintain its global presence and operate under the same name under Dietrich’s direction.

The Hutton Group Announces New Vice President of Sales and Marketing

March 16, 2023—Pittsburgh-based The Hutton Group—Inspired Meetings and Events, announced Andrea Milrad Heilweil as the company’s new vice president of sales and marketing. Milrad Heilweil will manage and organize the site selection process and hotel contracting needs of the woman-owned and operated boutique company’s clients, according to a press release.

“I am thrilled with Andrea’s addition to The Hutton Group as she brings a myriad of hospitality and business experience,” said President/Owner and Chief Inspiration Officer Jill Garcia. “Her vast knowledge and understanding of diverse global clients in the association, corporate and nonprofit spaces fits perfectly into our wheelhouse.”

Milrad Heilweil previously worked as senior director of global accounts at HelmsBricoe over the last 20 years and was a consistent recipient of the President’s Club sales award. Garcia and Milrad Heilweil also formally worked together for 14 years. “I am excited to collaborate again with Jill to assist clients with important meetings and conventions,” said Milrad Heilweil. “We have a special rapport that brings an unmatched level of service, value and benefits to all our clients, large or small.”

Sensei Announces Dr. Vishal Patel and Alexandra Waterspiel as Co-Presidents

March 14, 2023—The luxury wellbeing brand Sensei announced the promotion of Alexandra Walterspiel and Dr. Vishal Patel as co-presidents of the rapidly growing company, according to a press release.

Walterspiel, who also serves as the chief operating officer, will focus on the operations, human resources, accounting and business development. Patel, who is also chief medical officer, will focus on wellness and technology. In their joint efforts, they will focus on Sensei’s goal of helping people live healthier lives.

“Alex and Vishal have both been critical in Sensei’s success and growth to date. The company not only deftly navigated the challenges of the pandemic, but also thrived, as evidenced by the fact that a second, and fully managed, retreat—Sensei Porcupine Creek—opened just three years after Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort,” according to Sensei co-founder and world-renowned physician, Dr. David Agus. “Their unique backgrounds and extensive experience give Sensei a leadership perspective that we believe will offer a unique strategic direction and will serve the company’s ambitious growth goals.”

Prior to joining Sensei, Walterspiel owned and operated IMPRINT Hospitality and Patel worked with various healthcare systems such as Geisinger and Parkland Hospital.

Culinary and Bartenders Unions Land New Contract, Avoid Strike at Las Vegas Convention Center

March 14, 2023—Culinary and Bartenders Unions announced a new four-year tentative contract with Sodexo LIVE! and Centerplate at the Las Vegas Convention Center, providing a historic wage increase for the 400 workers covered by the new agreement, providing temporary workers with union wages and benefits, technology language that protects workers and their jobs and proving workers with union health care and pensions. according to a press release.

“The Culinary Union has fought hard to protect workers over the last 88 years and we are proud that this new agreement is the best contract with the highest wage increases that Sodexo LIVE!/Centerplate workers have ever had while continuing to protect health care and pension benefits for 400 hospitality workers who work so hard every day to keep the Las Vegas Convention Center running,” according to Ted Pappageorge, secretary-treasurer for the Culinary Union. “This new contract mirrors the Culinary Union technology standard language in contracts on the Strip and Downtown by setting clear goals regarding worker retention, job training, advance notice of technology implementation, automation and a severance package.”

The previous contract with The Sodexo LIVE!/Centerplate expired on Sept. 1, 2022, with banquet servers, bartenders, concession cashiers, cooks, dishwashers, and other Sodexo LIVE!/Centerplate workers agreeing unanimously in December to authorize a strike. The latest agreement was reached before reaching the strike deadline slated for March.

Director of ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’ Arrives at Oscars in Suit from Unclaimed Luggage

March 13, 2023—Director of “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” Daniel Scheinert, arrived on the champagne-colored carpet of the 2023 Oscars sporting a tuxedo from Scottsboro, Alabama-based Unclaimed Luggage—the only retailer of unclaimed luggage in the U.S., according to a press release.

“We were thrilled to see one of our very own items on the Oscar stage,” said Vice President of Retail and Company Culture for Unclaimed Luggage, Jennifer Kritner. “Each item we find and sell at Unclaimed Baggage has a unique story and leaves the store with a bright new future. Who knew this item would find its way to the one of biggest nights in entertainment.”

The Oscar-winning director and Alabama native’s film, “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” won seven Oscars Sunday evening including the Oscar for best picture, best actor, best actress, best director, among others.

Everline Resort & Spa Announced as Culturally Sensitive Name for Olympic Valley, California Property

March 10, 2023—Resort at Squaw Creek, in Olympic Valley, California, announced yesterday its new name and logo would be Everline Resort & Spa.

“Our resort is dedicated to fostering spaces where everyone feels welcome. This name change was a top priority for the resort and community and a decision that has been made in collaboration with the Washoe Tribe, who have lived in this area for thousands of years,” said Manfred Steuerwald, general manager of Everline Resort & Spa.

The name Everline encompasses the resort’s evergreen mountain escape that guests can visit year-round. The name further reflects the resort’s on-site experience that caters to every Lake Tahoe state of mind, through experiences that inspire adventure, exploration and togetherness.

The new name also focuses on connection–to nature, to self, and to exhilarating shared experiences that help to forge bonds between family, friends, colleagues and other travelers.

The design of the logo and artwork evokes the resort as a Gateway to Natural Wonder and celebrates the natural surroundings through a bold durable mark, nature-inspired colors, and texture-forward touch points, making Everline an extension of the environmental experience that stands out by blending in to its natural surroundings.

Several D.C. Restaurants Added to 2023 Michelin Guide

March 9, 2023—Eight DC-based restaurants will be added 2023 Michelin Guide Washington, DC.

The newly starred restaurants include:

• Bar Spero in Capital Crossing
• Opal in Chevy Chase
• Causa in Blagden Alley
• Mandu I Mount Vernon Square
• New Heights in Woodley Park
• James on 14^th Street
• Tigerella in Foggy Bottom
• Le Tejana in Mount Pleasant

“Adding eight more of Washington, DC’s impressive restaurants to the 2023 Michelin Guide highlights the city’s innovative and diverse dining scene,” says Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital.

The current Greater Washington Michelin guide contains 129 restaurants, including 24 Michelin star rated restaurants.

Destinations International Forms Strategic Partnership with Groups360

March 8, 2023—Destinations International and Groups360 today announced a strategic partnership aimed at providing a more efficient group process by using best-in-class booking technology, powered by transparent data insights, to align destinations with their planner customers and meeting attendees, according to a press release.

“Streamlined solutions for destination organizations are here to stay,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “This new partnership provides our destination organization members with unparalleled, streamlined solutions to meet the evolving needs of their stakeholders. We are excited to offer our members access to the GroupSync™ platform with advanced data insights and technology.”

Destinations International will bring its 650 member organizations spanning 23 countries to the partnership to research, develop and deploy technology to create a more efficient process for bringing groups to destinations while improving the distribution of hotel room blocks and meeting spaces to better fulfill the needs of event attendees.

JetBlue’s Proposed Acquisition of Spirit Airlines Blocked by Justice Dept.

March 7, 2023—The Justice Department on Tuesday filed a civil lawsuit to block JetBlue’s proposed $3.8 billion acquisition of Spirit Airlines. The complaint alleges that the acquisition of JetBlue’s fiercest, low-cost rival, which provides hundreds of routes and serves millions of travelers, would reduce the options available within the U.S. and would ultimately lead to higher fares and fewer seats, according to a press release.

“As our complaint alleges, the merger of JetBlue and Spirit would result in higher fares and fewer choices for tens of millions of travelers, with the greatest impact felt by those who rely on what are known as ultra-low-cost carriers in order to fly,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Companies in every industry should understand by now that this Justice Department will not hesitate to enforce our antitrust laws and protect American consumers.”

Additional details of the complaint include the extensive expansion of Spirit’s network, doubling in size over the last 10 years, with the merger expected to curb this continued growth and future competition before it starts.

PRA Acquired by EagleTree Capital

March 7, 2023—EagleTree acquired PRA through CI Capital Partners that had invested in PRA in 2017. PRA announced today that while their management team will continue to lead the company, the business events and programs company will be enhanced by the EagleTree acquisition.

“Since its founding over 40 years ago, PRA has become a leading business event management firm in the United States,” said Mike Fiber, CEO of PRA. “We are excited to build this momentum and thrilled to have the support and partnership of EagleTree Capital.”

FAA Calls Emergency Meeting for Passenger Safety

March 7, 2023—According to MSNBC News, the FAA is calling an emergency meeting to address several incidents that are endangering the lives of passengers. Between engine fires, airplanes colliding with birds and increased degrees of turbulence, FAA chief Billy Nolen enacted a nationwide safety summit schedule for next week.

“I want to hear from the participants what they are seeing in their own operations,” says Nolen. “And more important, I want specific ideas on how to enhance our already robust safety net with concrete actions.”

USDOT Delivers Blow to Airline Family Seating Junk Fees

March 6, 2023—The U.S. Dept. of Transportation on Monday unveiled a new family seating dashboard that highlights airlines that guarantee fee-free family seating, along with those that don’t, helping travelers avoid paying junk fees as the Biden Administration continues to press airlines to improve customer service, according to a press release.

“Parents traveling with young kids should be able to sit together without an airline forcing them to pay junk fees,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “We have been pressing airlines to guarantee family seating without tacking on extra charges, and now we’re seeing some airlines start to make this common-sense change. All airlines should do this promptly, even as we move forward to develop a rule establishing this as a requirement across the board.”

Secretary Buttigieg last summer pushed for U.S. airlines to do better for travelers who face canceled or delayed flights due to the carrier. Now, all 10 of the largest U.S. airlines guarantee meals and rebooking, and nine of those now guarantee hotels when an airline issue results in a cancellation or delay.

ACVB Executive Vice President Set to Retire End of Year

March 2, 2023—Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) has announced Executive Vice President and chief sales officer Mark Vaughan will be retiring at the end of this year. The announcement was made during the ACVB’s board of directors meeting.

“Much of Atlanta’s growth and success as a destination has occurred under Mark’s leadership,” said William Pate, president, and CEO, ACVB. “His efforts during the last two decades have generated tremendous economic impact and job growth for our industry and our city.”

During his time with ACVB, Vaughan oversaw trade show and in-house sales, convention services and international sales. ACVB saw a spike in both convention bookings and visitation during the pandemic under his leadership.

ExCel London Partners with Isla to offer Trace Carbon Measurement

March 2, 2023—Carbon neutral event venue ExCeL London has announced a new collaboration with sustainability consultants isla to offer the TRACE platform to event organizers, the first UK venue to do so. TRACE was designed to help reduce and report the environmental impact of an event’s life cycle–from the early planning stages to the moment an exhibitor heads for home. The platform will now be an additional service available to any event hosted at ExCeL, with the venue also holding its own license to aid data capture and measurement as part of its wider roadmap to becoming Net Zero.

Concord Hospitality Announces Record Growth for 2022

March 1, 2023—Concord Hospitality on Wednesday reported record growth for 2022 with hotel and development revenue topping $1.6 billion. Concord also announced the highest food and beverage revenue in the company’s history, increasing by 40% over 2021 with Concord’s overall portfolio surpassing its 2022 budget by 8.1%, according to a press release.

“Our performance in 2022 was outstanding, delivering record-breaking growth and a full recovery from the biggest economic downturn to ever impact the hospitality industry. We provided excellent topline and bottom-line performance and did it through excellence in service execution. We owe much of this success to the relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence by our talented teams making strides in technology, food & beverage, operations and revenue management/digital marketing to keep Concord a best-in-class operator. Our trajectory for 2023 shows a healthy pipeline of development and new business as Concord Hospitality continues to be a preferred developer and operator amongst the leading hotel ownership groups in North America,” said Mark Laport, CEO and president, Concord Hospitality.

Marine Highway Program to Provide Millions for Maritime Improvements

March 1, 2023—The U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration today announced that $12, 423,000 will be made available throughout the 2023 fiscal year. The funds are provided by the United States Marine Highway Program (USMHP), which seeks to improve the efficiency and sustainability of water-based transport, create additional maritime jobs and strengthen the nation’s supply chains, according to a press release.

“America’s waterways serve as critical links in our nation’s supply chains,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “These investments in our marine highways will help to strengthen our supply chains, reduce emissions, and create jobs across the country.”

Recipients of the grant money will first be evaluated by the department with criteria including any impact on the shipment of goods, the consideration of equity, environmental justice, use of domestic preference, level of non-federal funding investment as well as considering geographic diversity.

Sensei Porcupine Creek Announces Exclusive Tennis Program Featuring Former Tennis Pro

Feb. 28, 2023—Sensei Porcupine Creek on Tuesday announced a special, one-time-only exclusive tennis program featuring former tennis pro Tommy Haas. The event is slated to take place April 25-28 and is in partnership with Indian Wells Tennis Garden, home to the BNP Paribas Open tennis tournament, according to a press release.

“For the first time ever, Sensei Porcupine Creek’s formerly private professional-grade tennis facilities are now open to guests, offering unique tennis experiences for all levels of play,” said Julie Oliff, general manager at Sensei Porcupine Creek. “We’re thrilled to offer this once-in-a-lifetime program that goes far beyond a typical tennis clinic, to help guests refine their skills through the help of best-in-class professionals, such as Tommy Haas and our own, Caroline Vis.”

The Tommy Haas Tennis Program includes the following experiences:

• Luxury accommodations for three nights
• Welcome reception with Tommy Haas and group orientation session that focuses on goals and intentions
• Behind-the-scenes experience and tour at Indian Wells Tennis Garden and Stadium 1 play time
• Guided warm-up with Tommy Haas and Team
• 5 hours of drill practices and rotating doubles matches with Tommy Haas and team
• Personalized wellness consultations with a Sensei Guide, focused on fitness, mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or nutrition
• Group classes including open sky meditation and wall yoga
• Select dining experiences including daily breakfast, welcome reception, farewell Omakase-style dinner, and lunch at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden

MeetingPulse Launches Platform Templates

Feb. 27, 2023—San Francisco-based event solutions company MeetingPulse launched a line of interactive employee engagement and audience response tools called Platform Templates. Browser-based modules are designed to improve engagement in live Q&A, polling, surveys and quizzes for in-person, virtual and hybrid events.

Platform Templates are have been designed by experts to equip sales and executive teams, event professionals, administrators, recruiters, marketers and human resource departments with tools to promote interaction between leaders and their team, according to the press release. Template features include: pre-event surveys, lead-generation marketing, speaker evaluations, all-hands meetings, sales kickoffs and voting.

Nearly $1B Awarded to U.S. Airports to Meet Surging Demand

Feb. 27, 2023—The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Monday announced that nearly $1 billion in funds will be awarded to 99 airports across the U.S. to meet surging air travel demand by investing in improvements including new baggage systems, larger security checkpoints and improved ground transportation, among others, according to a press release.

“Americans deserve the best airports in the world, and with demand for air travel surging back, this funding to improve the passenger experience couldn’t come at a more urgent time,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “These grants will make it faster and easier to check your bags, get through security and find your gate, all while creating jobs and supporting local economies.”

The funds will be allocated to 47 states and two territories and will also include improvements to aging air traffic control towers.

Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show Takes Spot as Largest West Coast Consumer Show

Feb. 24, 2023—The Travel & Adventure Show series hosted its fifth show at Los Angeles Convention Center Feb. 18th and 19th. The show welcomed more than 17,000 travel enthusiasts, a 50% increase compared to 2022. It also included more than 250 exhibitors, 591 travel advisors and 2,300 travel media members.

Keynote speakers included the likes of Rick Steves, host of “Rick Steves’ Europe and Travel with Rick Steves”; Pauline Frommer, editorial director of the Frommer’s Guides and publisher of frommers.com; and Peter Greenberg, Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter and CBS News travel editor.

“The 2023 Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show marked our 18th year in the City of Angels and it’s no secret that this one was the most important. We are excited to see its revival back to a pre-pandemic audience, both from an attendance perspective and number of exhibitors and what they bring to the show floor,” said John Golicz, CEO of Unicomm LLC, producer of Travel & Adventure Shows.

Hospitality Agencies Adopt School District, Donate Goods and Services

Feb. 23, 2023—Local business are participating in an adopt-a-school program and are donating a variety of supplies and services to the Volusia County School District, Dayton Beach News-Journal reports. The program aims to support schools mainly in West Volusia area.

“(It’s important) from elementary, and especially elementary and middle school, that we show the kids that we care, that the business community is aware and that we can guide them,” said Bob Davis, president of the Lodging & Hospitality Association of Volusia County, during an interview.

The program includes 250 members, 100 hotels and 150 hospitality allies. Hotels, such as The Hampton Inn & Suites in Deland have partnered with various area schools including Edith I. Starke Elementary, providing upgrades to campuses such as new carpets, landscaping and newly painted parking lot lines.

Other donations include laptops and miniature jet engines. Agencies involved in this program helping to boost the learning experience of students while also opening the door of curiosity of the next generation of hospitality leaders.

Hubilo Acquires fielddrive in Latest Event Tech Merger

Feb. 23, 2023—Hubilo Technologies acquired fielddrive BVBA after raising $150 million in venture capital funding from Lightspeed Venture Partners, Akeon Capital and Balderton Capital.

“The two companies combined really pools our products, expertise, and talent, ensuring that we can cover digital, hybrid, and in-person anywhere in the world. This acquisition cements Hubilo as the leading event tech player,” stated Vaibhav Jain, founder and CEO of Hubilo. Jain added, “fielddrive will run as an independent entity and will continue to be platform agnostic. fielddrive’s dedication to customers aligns with our customer-first approach, and our aim is to continue to meet and exceed our customers’ needs by providing technology that enables exceptional event experiences regardless of location, budget or format.”

As Hubilo looks to grow further within the in-person space, Sophie Ahmed becomes the GM of Hubilo Onsite, leading fielddrive, which includes features to manage visitor queues, facial recognition for onsite check-in, sustainable badging, lead retrieval and analytics, new monetization opportunities and an expert customer experience team.

New Plans for Raleigh Convention Center Expansion Would Double Capacity

Feb. 22, 2023—Expansion plans for a $425-million Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex (RCC) revealed for the first time at Wake County Board of Commissioners this week sketched out a design that would add 500,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including 30 additional breakout rooms and an additional capacity for 20,000 people, doubling the current RCC capacity.

Kerry Painter, general manager and director of RCC pointed out that the convention center is the force behind the most hotel room nights booked in the county. “Last year, we set an all-time record for the number of hotel room nights booked in downtown Raleigh thanks to a packed schedule of conventions, shows and other events. This is a marker of success but also an indication that we can do even more. The truth is, we turned away business because we simply didn’t have room, not to mention the potential clients who weren’t even able to consider us due to our limited capacity,” she said.

The next step for the planned two-square-block destination for meetings, events and entertainment is a funding vote at The Board of Commissioners and the Raleigh City Council on June 20.

Wizz Air Strikes Deal for Supply of Sustainable Aviation Fuel

Feb. 22, 2023—Wizz Air, Europe’s fastest growing sustainable airline, according to the Centre for Aviation Awards for Excellence 2022 (CAPA), on Wednesday announced a deal with Neste for the purchase of 36,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel starting in 2025, according to a press release.

The deal, based on a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), will allow Wizz Air to supply the airline’s route network across Europe and the UK with the goal of reducing the airlines CO2 emissions by 2030 by 25%. The plan is focused on reducing CO2 intensity per passenger kilometer and reach net-zero by 2050. Wizz Air in 2022 reached its lowest ever carbon intensity, which amounted to 55.2 grams per passenger/kilometer.

“Wizz Air continues to invest in innovative technology and believes that SAF is a key part of the solution for the decarbonisation of the aviation industry. This partnership with Neste, the world’s leading producer of SAF, reaffirms our commitment to reducing our carbon emissions intensity, which is already one of the lowest among airlines in the world. Working together with Neste, we will drive the adoption of SAF throughout our network, paving the way to a more sustainable future for aviation,” said Ian Malin, Executive Vice President and Group Chief Financial Officer at Wizz Air.

United Announces Plans for More Family Friendly Skies

Feb. 21, 2023 — United is launching a new utility on its seat map feature that allows for children under the age of 12 to be seated in an adjacent seat to the adults in their party for free. In a press release yesterday, Linda Jojo, Chief Customer Officer for United, explained why this update to family travel is so important.

“In an era where more families are working in a hybrid environment, they’re traveling more often – and they’re flying United,” said Jojo. “We’re focused on delivering a great experience for our younger passengers and their parents and know it often starts with the right seat. We look forward to rolling out more family-friendly features this year.”

SITE Celebrates Crystal Awards Winners

Feb. 20, 2023–Eight SITE Crystal Award recipients were celebrated on the final night of the largest-ever SITE Global Conference in New York City. “This year’s winners strongly reflected an ability to deliver the many impacts and benefits of incentive travel, while also leading the way in embracing new and emerging trends,” read the press release, which highlighted the range of destinations and companies represented and the growth of incentive travel as a key reward and motivational strategy for top firms looking to retain and attract talent.

Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group, which sponsored this year’s awards praised the international reach of the programs honored. “The Crystal Awards bring our community together and spotlight the innovation and excellence powering these teams and their standout incentive programs,” she said in a press release.
This year’s complete list of Crystal Award recipients includes:

Access Holidays & Events, for Excellence in Incentive Travel: Africa and the Middle East

Amstar DMC (Costa Rica), for Best Destination-Based Experiential Incentive Travel Program

Amstar DMC (Mexico), for Best Destination-Based Experiential Incentive Travel Program

Arabian Adventures Meetings, Incentives & Events, for Excellence in Incentive Travel: Africa and the Middle East

Augeo, for Best Virtual Motivational Experience

AV Business & Communication, for Excellence in Incentive Travel: Latin America & Caribbean

Creative Travel India & FMC Solutions South Africa, for Excellence in Incentive Travel: Asia Pacific

Motivation Excellence, for Excellence in Incentive Travel: Europe

Two Airlines Team Up to Provide Supplies to Earthquake Victims in Syria and Turkey

Feb. 17, 2023–Atlas Air Inc. and Turkish Airlines announced an Atlas Air 747-8F departed Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), carrying relief supplies for the earthquake victims in Syria and Turkey.

The two companies are working with the Turkish Embassy to support the thousands impacted, with Atlas Air providing the crew and aircraft, and Turkish Airlines providing clothing, medical supplies and other essential items.

“Through our partnership with Turkish Airlines, we are honored to contribute air freight capacity to deliver critical supplies to this region where they are needed the most,” said John Dietrich, president and CEO of Atlas Air Worldwide. “We are moved by the heroic work of first responders and humanitarian organizations to provide relief to the communities impacted by this natural disaster.”

Cape Cod Hotels and Restaurant Win Forbes Five Star Hospitality Award

Feb. 16, 2023—Two hotels and a restaurant based in Cape Cod have been honored with Forbes Five Star hospitality awards. The award-winning hotels and restaurant include Twenty-Eight Atlantic, the signature dining room at Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Harwich, Chatham Bars Inn, and Chatham Inn in Chatham.

This marks the second year for Twenty-Eight Atlantic to win the award and the second year for Chatham Inn.

The winners of the 65^th annual Star Awards were selected following anonymous visits to hotels, cruise ships, spas and restaurants by Forbes Travel Guide’s incognito inspectors. The criteria consist of 900 rigorous standards, measuring every element from modern-day luxury to more traditional standards of hospitality.

Biden-Harris Administration Announce Next Steps to Deliver Electric Vehicle Chargers Nationwide

Feb. 15, 2023—The Biden-Harris administration today announced its latest action for delivering on the President’s goal of building a nationwide network of 500,000 EV chargers by 2030, consisting of reliable and Made-in-America electric vehicle (EV) chargers, according to a press release.

The latest steps include the publication of minimum standards for federally funded EV infrastructure, finalizing the Build America, Buy America implementation plan for EV charging equipment, and announcing that states, cities, towns and Tribes can soon apply for the first round of $2.5 billion in competitive grants to build EV charging stations in locations across the U.S.

“This is a major step toward a world where every EV user will be able to find safe, reliable charging stations anywhere in the country,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “We’re establishing common, universal standards for EV charging stations just like the ones for gas stations, so that recharging an EV away from home will be as predictable and accessible as filling up a gas tank.”

DI and Tourism Cares Partner for Social Good

Feb. 15, 2023—Destinations International, the association for destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), announced a partnership with Tourism Cares, a non-profit organization dedicated to the long-term survival of the travel and tourism industry that inspires travel leaders to make travel a force for good.

The partnership will establish cross-promoted special programs benefitting destination organizations globally including: The collaboration of inclusions to the Meaningful Travel Map to drive awareness of and highlight social and environmental impact experiences and opportunities and a jointly produced volunteerism project in conjunction with a Destinations International event in 2023–2024. Additionally, the two organizations will development a disaster relief program focusing on long-term recovery, supported by Destinations International and destination organization stakeholders.

SEARCH Foundation Exceeds $1 Million Giving Milestone

Feb. 15, 2023 —SEARCH (Special Event Assistance Relief & Crisis Help) Foundation chairwoman Kate Patay announced  that the philanthropic organization for the meetings and hospitality industry has exceeded the $1,000,000 mark in funds distributed to industry individuals in crisis in its 25 years of supporting the industry. “We’re pleased to report that since inception, 100% of qualified cases have been funded, and industry professionals in crisis were profundly affected by the efforts of the board, committees and supporters,” she said.

The SEARCH Foundation Annual Signature Event is scheduled for March 29 at Canvas Event Venue in Orlando, Florida.

Caesars Entertainment Atlantic City Resorts Add AI Concierge

Feb. 15, 2023 —Caesars Entertainment properties in Atlantic City are using technology to enhance the guest experience with Ivy, a 24-hour virtual concierge service. Created by Go Moment and powered by IBM Watson, the automated guest engagement platform for hotels will launch at Caesars Atlantic City followed by Harrah’s Resort and Tropicana, respectively. Ivy allows guests to request the services they need to enhance their stay from their devices. Ivy can book dining, entertainment and spa experiences and facilitate housekeeping and maintenance requests. Ivy also surveys guests during their stay, which allows for quick recovery of unhappy guests in real time. Users may opt out of receiving messages from Ivy at any time.

Ivy initially launched at the boutique Nobu Hotel at Caesars Palace and The Cromwell in December 2016. Caesars Entertainment rolled out to its remaining Las Vegas resorts in 2018, becoming the first major gaming company in the market to offer a widespread guest text messaging program with built-in artificial intelligence. The platform is now used at other Caesars-owned properties across the country to enhance the customer service experience.

American Airlines Awarded for Sustainability Efforts

Feb. 14, 2023 — American Airlines is named 2023 Eco-Airline of the year by Air Transport World (ATW)! In a press release from ATW, the organization attributes the recognition to the continual effort to the sustainability and fuel-efficiency efforts from American Airlines. Robert Isom, CEO of American Airlines, acknowledges the award and promises to continue these eco-conscious efforts.

“American is actively incorporating sustainability at every level of our business, from the fuel we buy to the food we serve our customers,” says Isom. “And our all-the-above approach is just getting started. As Eco-Airline of the Year, we will continue to lead the industry as an innovator in this space and affirm our unyielding commitment to build an American Airlines that will thrive forever.”

Little Rock CVB Launches Video Series Celebrating Black History Month

Feb. 13, 2023—The Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) on Monday announced the “Experience Little Rock in Color” interactive video series featuring local Black community influencers discussing the Black experience in Arkansas’s capital city, according to a press release.

The series premiered before an audience of business and community leaders, as well as tourism industry partners, on February 7 at the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center.

“We are thrilled to celebrate Black History Month with the launch of our new video series,” said President and CEO of the LRCVB, Gina Gemberling. “Little Rock is a dynamic and diverse community that pairs different cultures with world-class attractions, restaurants and experiences. We are proud to spotlight our city’s rich Black history and culture and look forward to expanding our video series to connect with more diverse communities that make our city a unique, must-see destination for visitors and locals alike.”

The video is narrated by local radio personality Mia Banks and includes more than 30 Black business leaders, community influencers and residents as they discuss various area restaurants, attractions, and experiences.

Fort Worth Eateries Named as James Beard Award Semifinalists

Feb. 13, 2023—Two restaurants in Fort Worth, Texas, have been recognized as James Beard Award semifinalists, highlighting the city’s vibrant culinary scene, according to a press release.

Don Artemio, a traditional Mexican restaurant and Goldee’s BBQ, will be considered for the prestigious award that will be presented during a ceremony in Chicago slated for June 3-5. Led by Chef Juan Ramon Decardenas, Don Artemio serves traditional Mexican dishes with a commitment to use only the freshest ingredients and opened its Fort Worth location in March 2022. The restaurant originated in Saltillo, Mexico, over a decade ago. Don Artemio is up for Best New Restaurant.

Started by five friends, who all happened to be pitmasters, Goldee’s BBQ is known for being ranked the number one BBQ pick in Texas Monthly and was named after an old golden Ford F250 that was once used to haul a smoker. Three of Goldee’s chefs, Lane Milne, Jalen Heard, and Jonny White are up for Best Chef.

ALHI and Hosts Global Partner to Offer Global Experiences

Feb. 13, 2023—Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) and Hosts Global announced a strategic partnership to offer tailored event experiences at ALHI’s 250 luxury properties, resorts, and cruise lines across the globe.

“There was just such a natural symmetry within our two organizations in approach, culture and focus on the client journey,” Michael Dominguez, president and CEO of ALHI said. “We are excited to leverage the reach and strength of Hosts Global with current and new ALHI clients.”

“We believe in the power of face-to-face events,” said Kurt Paben, CEO of Hosts Global. The strategic partnership will provide an integrated expertise merging best-in-class locations with boots-on-the-ground comprehensive DMC services.

Adelaide Named Host of Australia’s Dreamtime 2023

Feb. 12, 2023—Business Events Australia has announced Adelaide will be the host city for Dreamtime 2023, its signature incentive showcase designed to increase awareness of and interest in Australia as an outstanding business events destination. The Showcase will be the first Dreamtime held since 2019 due to the global Covid pandemic. The event will welcome and business events planners and media from Greater China, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, North America and the United Kingdom.

“Even with the disruption of the global Covid pandemic, Dreamtime 2019 delivered solid results for Australia, generating 36 business leads in three months, worth $97 million,” reported Tourism Australia’s Executive General Manager of Commercial & Business Events Australia, Robin Mack in a written statement. Prior to the pandemic, the business events sector was a key contributor to the visitor economy, attracting 1.04 million arrivals, spending A$4.5 billion for the year ending 31 December 2019. In terms of relative size, this makes the international business events visitor the second largest yielding market for Australia, after China.

DI’s Event Impact Calculator Launched in Mexico

Feb. 10, 2023—Destinations International announced that its Event Impact Calculator developed in partnership with Tourism Economics has launched in Mexico, marking more than 300 destinations with the tool in place in 12 countries. For meeting professionals working with destination partners, this tool is an easy way to quantify the impact of an event for reporting purposes.

“In 2022, more than 137,000 events were analyzed, with 80% business events and the remaining encompassing sports, festivals, and consumer shows,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “Hotel room nights are just one piece of the pie and the EIC tool allows our destination members around the world to convey the total value of an event to community stakeholders in a very understandable way.”

Reno Tahoe Reported Highest Tax Collections Ever

Feb. 9, 2023—Reno Tahoe released transient lodging and room tax statistics showing 2022’s total of $467,849,408 as the most taxable room revenue ever recorded for a calendar year. Four of the top five all-time revenue-producing months came in 2022, when nine additional records were set for monthly room tax collections. In 2022, Taxable Room Revenue in Washoe County was up 11.2%, from $420,530,005 to $467,849,408, compared to 2021, which previously held the record for room tax revenue in a calendar year. Cash Occupied Rooms were up 3.2%, from 3,092,164 to 3,189,970, over that same time period, and Average Daily Rates (ADR) increased 7.8%, from $136.00 to $146.66, breaking 2021’s record for highest ADR in a calendar year.

“Reno Tahoe lodging revenue continues to show some of the strongest gains anywhere in the U.S.,” said Reno Tahoe President and CEO Charles Harris. “The outdoor, gaming and special event offerings of Northern Nevada coincide with the diverse experiences travelers are seeking, and we are thrilled to be able to deliver on that promise of excitement, relaxation and adventure.”

MPI and NCBMP Expand Partnership

Feb. 9, 2023—Meeting Professionals International (MPI) announced a formal three-year extension and expanded community offerings with the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP). In October 2020, the partnership was focused primarily on a joint membership offering that has resulted in 53 members across both organizations having taken advantage. The updated partnership will extend through 2026 with ongoing renewals available for the two organizations to continue their collaboration. The two associations will seek to collaborate on industry education efforts through shared virtual learning and in-person sessions at each of their annual signature events, including MPI’s World Education Congress, Global Meetings Industry Day and NCBMP’s Annual Conference.

Visit Anaheim Booked $1.4 Billion Worth of Events for 2023

Feb. 9, 2023—Visit Anaheim announced it has confirmed 150 conventions, meetings, and events for 2023, which are projected to bring more than $1.4 billion in economic impact to the local community. Combined, these 43 conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, 89 meetings and 18 events will generate an estimated $793 million in tourism occupancy tax (TOT) revenue for the city, exceeding 2022 tourism occupancy tax revenue numbers. These meetings, conventions and events will bring 800,263 attendees and 584,970 room nights to local hotels in comparison to the 618,118 attendees and 447,355 room nights booked in 2022. As a result, 2023 will garner an additional $285 million in economic impact compared to 2022, demonstrating a strong recovery to the community because of attendees dining, shopping and entertaining while in town, according to a press release.

Frontier Airlines Releases Fourth Quarter Revenue Report

Feb. 8, 2023—Frontier Airlines Holdings, Inc. on Wednesday released its fourth-quarter report for 2022 showing strong revenue performance, including a record ancillary revenue per passenger. The parent company of Frontier Airlines reported that operating revenue for the fourth quarter totaled $906 million—a 38% increase when compared to 2019, according to a press release.

“Fourth quarter results were strong, underpinned by record ancillary revenue and meaningful improvements in CASM and utilization,” said President and CEO Barry Biffle. “Moving into 2023, we intend to bolster our competitive edge by driving further improvement in ancillary revenue per passenger and unit costs. Today, our total cost advantage over the industry average is wider than it was in 2019, and I expect it will widen further this year. With these contributing factors, I’m confident we’re on track to return the airline to the pre-pandemic profit levels per plane on a run-rate basis in the second half of 2023.”

In addition, total operating revenue per passenger was $133, a 24% increase over the quarter in 2019, and ancillary revenue per passenger hit a record $82, 41% higher than the 2019 quarter.

United Nations Approves Global Tourism Resilience Day

Feb. 7, 2023—With the support of more than 90 countries, Jamaica has been successful in spearheading the declaration of Feb. 17 as Global Tourism Resilience Day.

“This announcement will in fact signal to the world to put aside one day, February 17, every year to not just observe but to create a greater level of consciousness around resilience, says Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism the Hon. Edmund Bartlett. “The pandemic has shown us that global disruptions will continue, so there will be more epidemics, pandemics and earthquakes like the one in Turkey. The importance of this day is therefore to encourage capacity building for the world to be better able to respond to these global disruptions and recover quickly.”

The Global Tourism Resilience Conference will be held at the University of the West Indies’ Regional Headquarters in Kingston, Jamaica Feb. 15-17.

ExCeL London & Levy UK+1 Partner for Sustainability

Feb. 7, 2023—Carbon neutral event venue ExCeL London and sport and entertainment caterer Levy UK + Ireland,  announced a new long-term partnership with an emphasis on sustainability, technology and innovation as part of the pair’s roadmap to net zero, with Levy UK+I targeting an early adoption of 2027.

Future initiatives will see the introduction of consumer-facing carbon labelling, a minimum of 50% of menus to be plant-based, sourcing of 100% recyclable or reusable packing, to get food waste under 25% by 2024, and a new technological advanced store designed to improve the visitor experience and speed up service times, according to a press release.

Boeing Announces Plans to Cut 2,000 Finance, HR Positions in 2023

Feb. 7, 2023—Boeing on Monday announced staffing cuts to the company’s human resources and finance departments throughout 2023, with a total staffing reduction of roughly 2,000 jobs, AP reports.

“We expect about 2,000 reductions primarily in Finance and HR through a combination of attrition and layoffs,” Boeing said in a statement. “While no one has been notified of job loss, we will continue to share information transparently to allow people to plan.” Boeing’s overall workforce included 156,000 employees as of Dec. 31, 2022.

However, Boeing also said the company has plans to “significantly grow” its overall staffing levels over the course of the year. “We grew Boeing’s workforce by 15,000 last year and plan to hire another 10,000 employees this year with a focus on engineering and manufacturing,” the statement read. Boeing recently relocated its headquarters from Seattle, Washington to Arlington, Virginia.

IATA Claims Continued Air Travel Recovery

Feb. 7, 2023—The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that the recovery in air travel continued in December 2022 and for the full year.

The agency reported that total traffic in 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 64.4% compared to 2021. Globally, full-year 2022 traffic was at 68.5% of pre-pandemic (2019) levels. December 2022 total traffic rose 39.7% compared to December 2021 and reached 76.9% of the December 2019 level.

International traffic in 2022 climbed 152.7% versus 2021 and reached 62.2% of 2019 levels. December 2022 international traffic climbed 80.2% over December 2021, reaching 75.1% of the level in December 2019.

Domestic traffic for 2022 rose 10.9% compared to the prior year. 2022 domestic traffic was at 79.6% of the full-year 2019 level. December 2022 domestic traffic was up 2.6% over the year earlier period and was at 79.9% of December 2019 traffic.

“The industry left 2022 in far stronger shape than it entered, as most governments lifted Covid-19 travel restrictions during the year and people took advantage of the restoration of their freedom to travel. This momentum is expected to continue in the New Year, despite some governments’ over-reactions to China’s re-opening,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Visit Greater Palm Springs Announced Partnership to Support Local Entrepreneurs

Feb. 6, 2023—Visit Greater Palm Springs (VGPS) today announced it has partnered with Caravanserai Project to support a group of up to 30 Coachella Valley small business entrepreneurs with micro-grants up to $7,500 as well as business readiness training.

This micro-grant and training opportunity is available to Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs with businesses that are a part of the hospitality and tourism ecosystem in the Coachella Valley. These businesses can include restaurants, retail, housecleaning, daycare, transportation and more.

“As part of our commitment to the values of diversity, equity and inclusion, Visit Greater Palm Springs is thrilled to partner with Caravanserai Project to support our Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs in the Coachella Valley,” said Scott White, president & CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springs. “Our commitment widens the circle of opportunity to the community while providing skills, knowledge and an investment in small businesses so they can take part and grow in the hospitality and tourism industry.”

The next business-readiness training program begins on March 13. Caravanserai Project will be hosting a virtual information session on Feb. 8, 9-10:30 a.m. Entrepreneurs interested in learning more can register for this session at caravanseraiproject.org/seed-2.

Uncertainty Authors Announced as Keynotes for PCMA European Conference

Feb. 6, 2023—PCMA opened registration today for Convening EMEA conference for global business event professionals taking place in Copenhagen Sept. 20-22. The omnichannel event will feature opening keynote speakers Nathan Furr and Susannah Harmon Furr, authors of “The Upside of Uncertainty: A Guide to Finding Possibility in the Unknown.”

In-person registration will include an all-access pass to the educational conference at Bella Center Copenhagen and exploration tours.

Israel Railways Purchases A.I.-Based Obstacle Detection Technology Systems for $1.4 Million

Feb. 6, 2023—Israel Railways Ltd., Israel’s state-owned principal railway company, has signed an agreement to purchase 10 obstacle detection systems and related services from Rail Vision Ltd. The Main Line System is a cutting-edge, artificial intelligence-based, technology for the detection and identification of objects and obstacles in the proximity of, or on the railway, according to a press release.

“After more than a year of evaluating a variety of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Israel Railways chose Rail Vision’s Main Line System as the solution for its fleet, marking the first major commercial deployment of AI-based vision technology for main line rail industry operations,” said Rail Vision CEO Shahar Hania. “Our Main Line System outperformed in all aspects of testing during the proof-of-concept with Israel Railways. We believe this is a strong validation of our solution and bodes extremely well for other pilot programs underway, such as our long-term pilot in Australia with Rio Tinto, a leading global mining group, as well as other opportunities around the globe.”

Roughly 700 trains operate within Israel Railway’s lines of service across 1,138 kilometers (over 707 miles) of track daily, connecting major cities, towns and rural areas throughout the country.

“Using advanced, long-range A.I. detection systems, our game-changing technology provides unparalleled obstacle identification on and near tracks, making it an ideal solution for major rail operators like Israel Railways, and a key driver behind strategic partnerships, such as our relationship with Knorr-Bremse, the global leader in braking systems for the rail industry that has invested $24 million into Rail Vision since our inception,” Hania added.

City of Paris Wins 2023 Sustainable Transport Award

Feb. 6, 2023—Paris, France has been named the recipient of the 2023 Sustainable Transport Award (STA) by the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) and Sustainable Transport Committee in recognition of the city’s recent progress in improving its public transport and urban spaces with policies that promote sustainability, accessibility, and inclusion, according to a press release.

“The work that the 2023 STA Nominees have put into building more resilient and accessible cities is outstanding, especially as the pandemic challenged our urban systems,” said ITDP CEO Heather Thompson. “It is an honor to have a historic city like Paris as the winner this year—their efforts to promote sustainability, care, and active mobility were some of the boldest seen during the pandemic.”

Paris had targeted improved efforts toward more sustainable forms of public transportation and accessible public spaces for all types of communities to improve the quality of life of Parisians. The city tested several policies during the pandemic to lower emissions and noise pollution and improve public health. STA’s honorable mentions in 2023 include Jalisco, Mexico and Bhubaneswar, India.

“We are living in a historical inflection point. Paris, like most major cities, is shifting towards becoming a more walkable and cyclable city, and we want to accelerate this revolution,” said Paris Deputy Mayor David Belliard. “It is a public health issue and a response to climate change. This paradigm shift concerns all of us: whether you are a driver, a cyclist, a pedestrian, or a public transport user.”

New Jobs Report Showed 128,000 New Hospitality Employees

Feb. 3, 2023—The new U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics January Employment Report showed that out of 517,000 jobs added last month overall, the leisure and hospitality sector added 128,000 of those jobs, 35% of the growth and more than any other single sector. U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman said the report “is further evidence that travel is essential to the U.S. economy. Travel’s success is the nation’s success and robust travel demand is supercharging our nation’s economic recovery and job growth.”

He pointed out that the industry still has nearly 2 million open jobs despite returning to pre-pandemic employment levels and urged action to bring more temporary workers to the United States.
In addition to enacting other priorities to spur travel demand and growth, (streamlining temporary worker programs) should be a top priority for the federal government,” Freeman said.

Small Luxury Hotels of the World Announce New Partnerships

Feb. 2, 2023—Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) announced in December 2022 a new addition to their international MICE partnerships with Reilly Resort Representatives (RRR) Avenue Sales & Marketing (Avenue) and Heavens Portfolio.

Reilly Resort Representatives is a female-owned and operated marketing representation firm based in North America that works to connect hotels to qualified group leads. Avenue Sales & Marketing, based in the UK, specializes in the luxury hospitality industry. Lastly, Asian-based Heavens Portfolio offers a curated collection of the luxurious travel brands.

“We are thrilled to enhance the value of the average meeting, conference or event with the individual character and special charm that each of our SLH hotels provide. Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection of boutique hotels in more than 90 countries enables our partners, Avenue, RRR and Heavens Portfolio to provide their clients with some of the most distinctive, individually spirited hotels around the world,” says SLH’s Managing Director Richard Hyde.

Convene Acquired etc.venues

Feb. 1, 2023—The meeting and event space provider Convene announced today that it had acquired  etc.venues, an urban day conferencing company with venues in the United Kingdom in London, Manchester, and Birmingham, and in the United States in New York City, making the combined company the largest single provider of dedicated premium meeting and event venues in the U.S. and UK.

In a joint statement, the Convene CEO Ryan Simonetti and etc.venues managing director Nick Hoare, said, “We believe that the workplace of the future is a meeting space. While individual work can be done anywhere, there is nothing-not even with all the advances in technology-that can replace the magic that happens when you bring people together.”

Federal Transit Administration Announces $1.7 Billion in Funding to Modernize Transit Fleets

Jan. 31, 2023—The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced the availability of $1.7 billion in funding to modernize fleets of transportation across the U.S. with low- and no-emission busses, upgrade facilities and provide additional driver and operator training. The funding is provided through the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will support transit upgrades on a local and state level, according to a press release.

“The historic funding opportunity we are announcing today is helping communities across the country purchase new buses, which will cut harmful pollution, and train workers for good-paying jobs,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “With these new, cleaner buses, Americans will have better options to get where they need to go and people everywhere will benefit from cleaner air.”

The programs are part of the president’s plan to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. “Buying new buses, including many vehicles that use new technology to fight climate change, will promote cleaner, faster, and safer rides as we move toward a better future,” said FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez. “Thanks to the strong commitment of this Administration to not leave anyone behind, we will be able to connect more people in their communities and improve the reliability of transit service.”

FAA Creates Optimized Fuel-Saving Arrival Routes

Jan. 31, 2023—The FAA this week announced new fuel-saving arrival routes for 11 airports, expected to save millions of gallons of fuel. The new optimized descents include flights headed to Kansas City, Omaha, Orlando, and six airports located in South Florida, according to a press release.

“We are investing across the entire system to provide passengers with the best travel experience. The era of choppy descents is coming to an end, providing a smoother landing and saving fuel in the process,” said Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen.

The fuel-saving method known as Optimized Profile Descents (OPDs) eliminates the need for descending planes to use the stair-step procedure, which required planes to incrementally drop altitude and level off followed by an increase in engine power. OPDs allow planes to descend in one continuous path from a cruising altitude to the runway.

Over 1,000 Flights Canceled Due to Winter Weather

Jan. 31, 2023—The website FlightAware marked over 1,000 flights canceled yesterday due to an icy blast of winter weather that hovered over the middle of the country. Meanwhile, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) told lawmakers in Washington, D.C. that it made a series of changes to its NOTAM system to prevent a repeat of a computer system outage that disrupted more than 11,000 U.S. flights in January.

Destinations International Foundation Announces Deadline for 2023 30 Under 30 Program

Jan. 30, 2023—The Destinations International Foundation has announced the deadline for applications to its 30 Under 30 Program set for February 28, 2023, at 5 PM ET. The program aims to provide guidance and professional development to individuals under the age of 30 by offering valuable industry experience and networking opportunities, according to a press release.

“The future of destination organizations worldwide remains dependent on today’s young professionals,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “The Destinations International Foundation continually invests in the leaders of tomorrow through professional development opportunities. We look forward to connecting with and celebrating the 30 future leaders throughout 2023 and their careers.”

The 30 Under 30 Program is currently in its 13^th year offering additional perks including a mentorship program, complimentary registration to the 2023 Annual Convention, access to networking with the 30 Under 30 community and year-round educational programming.

Alaska Airlines Becomes First Airline to Eliminate Plastic Cups

Jan. 27, 2023—Alaska Airlines has eliminated its annual use of 55 million plastic cups, the first major carrier to do so. This move will eliminate 2.2 million pounds of plastic from its operation.

As a replacement, the airline will use recycled paper cups for most of its passengers, in combination with its policy of offering Boxed Water, which comes in recyclable paper containers, first implemented in 2021. First-class passengers will use glasses for cocktails and soft drinks.

The airline began its journey of plastic removal in 2018, when it removed plastic straws and stir sticks from its service, also a first. According to a press release by Alaska, the company hopes to achieve the goal of replacing the top five waste-producing products from its inflight services by 2025. Alaska has also pledged to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, partly by reducing emissions by using biofuel made from plants.

IHG Hotels & Resorts Donates $500,000 to AHLA Foundation Human Trafficking Survivor Fund

Jan. 27, 2023—No Room for Trafficking Survivor Fund now totals more than $2 million in donations after IHG Hotels & Resorts announced in a press release that it had donated $500,000 this week to fund the group’s work to end human trafficking and support the economic stability of survivors.

“Recognizing that our industry has a unique opportunity to fight human trafficking collectively, we proudly join our peers and AHLA Foundation in continuing to make impactful change,” said Elie Maalouf, CEO, Americas, IHG Hotels & Resorts, in a statement. 

Other contributors include: Extended Stay America, G6 Hospitality, Hilton Global Foundation, Hyatt Hotels Foundation and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. 

Destination DC Welcomes 36 New Members to DEI Business Fellowship Program

Jan. 26, 2023—Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, this week welcomed 36 new members to its diversity, equity and inclusion business fellowship program as part of DDC’s continued commitment to support small local businesses owned by people of color, LGBTQ+, women and disabled persons, according to a press release.

“As a member-based organization focused on economic development through tourism, it’s important for us to interface with the local community and rebuild the tourism and hospitality industry in Washington, DC equitably and inclusively,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, DDC. “Supporting local businesses through our marketing channels and exposure to customers provides greater awareness to visitors of the services and small businesses that are in our own backyard.”

Those joining the fellowship program will receive free membership for one year, which includes access to marketing support and networking opportunities. Applications for the DEI Fellowship 2024 cohort will be available in the fall.

Freeman and ELX Announce Event Leader Community Network Partnership

Jan. 25, 2023—Event Leaders Exchange (ELX) and the live event producer Freeman announced a partnership that will give ELX members direct access to Freeman data, strategists and innovations. The invitation-only community of global event leaders from companies such as Allianz, Cisco and Google, will hold its first Annual Congress Feb. 1-3 at Hyatt Regency Chicago where Freeman will host a discussion group on “Aligning Business Events with Your Company’s Sustainability Goals.”

“Sustainability is a critical topic as the events industry looks to the future,” said Adam Charles, head of Freeman’s Agency group.

Accor Live Limitless, ITA Airways Launch Loyalty Rewards Partnership

Jan. 25, 2023 —ITA Airways and Accor Live limitless (ALL) on Monday announced the launch of a new reciprocal reward partnership that includes a two-way conversion offer, giving members of their rewards programs the opportunity to convert reward points starting Jan. 26, according to a press release.

Incentive Research Foundation Releases Signature Study

Jan 25, 2023–The Incentive Research Foundation has announced the release of its signature study, The IRF 2023 Trends Report.

“As we enter 2023, incentive, recognition, and reward programs will be expected to have broader reach and deeper impact,” said IRF President Stephanie Harris. “Program owners are charged with motivating a changing workforce while dealing with major disruptions, including inflation, uncertainty, ongoing supply chain issues, and limited inventory.”

The top trends for incentive, reward, and recognition programs in 2023 include:

Expanded Role of Incentives Professionals: The new decentralized workforce comes with new expectations and considerations for the structure and delivery of engagement programs to inspire employee performance and loyalty.

Incentive Travel Is Scaling Back… The demand for incentive travel is strong for 2023, but economic and staffing issues are often forcing incentive program owners to scale back.

…And Ramping Up: In order to meet the needs of the changing workforce, incentive travel needs to be more exciting, more exclusive, more experiential, more authentic, and more memorable than ever.

Patience Has Run Out: Suppliers have noted that incentive clients now expect services to be delivered at pre-COVID levels, particularly where costs are higher than pre-pandemic.

Downtime Is the Hot Activity: Attendees want more choices in their schedules, time between programs, and blocks of time to recharge or catch up with work.

Kirby Corporation Names Susan W. Dio to Company Board

JAN. 23, 2023— Kirby Corporation (NYSE: KEX) announced the appointment of Susan W. Dio to the Company’s Board as of January 24, 2023.

Previously, Dio served as Chairman and President of BP America, as well as BP’s Head of Audit and Refining and Marketing while focusing on integrating safety and operational risk.

“Susan’s appointment reflects our commitment to ongoing Board refreshment and focus on adding diverse perspectives and experiences. We look forward to benefiting from her insights as we continue to provide high quality service and products in a safe, environmentally responsible manner all while delivering significant value to our customers,” said Joseph H. Pyne, chairman of Kirby Board of Directors.

“I am honored to serve on the Board as Kirby continues to evolve its strategic priorities, build on its momentum in its Marine Transportation business and progress its electrification strategy in Distribution and Services. I look forward to working with my fellow directors and the management team to continue driving shareholder value,” Dio said.

Kirby Corporation, from Houston, Texas is the largest domestic thank barge operator in the nation, focusing on transporting petrochemicals, black oil and refined petroleum products via tank barge.

Destinations International Announces CEO Summit

Jan. 24, 2023—Destinations International, the world’s largest resource for official destination organizations and convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), today announced that registration is open for the 2023 CEO Summit. The event will take place in Greater Victoria, BC, Canada April 3-5, 2023 and is open to CEOs, C-suite and executive-level staff in the travel and tourism industry.

This year’s CEO Summit is themed “Navigating the Complexity,” and exclusively available to Destinations International members and event partners around the world. The focus will be around continuing the journey to navigate and overcome the complexities of the past three years. Attendees will hear from thought leaders in the areas of sustainability, health and wellness, and the future of work.

Southwest Terminates Training Candidates for Appearance

Jan. 24, 2023 —Southwest Airlines Inflight Candidates Twitter group announced the termination of any training candidates who possess any tattoos in visible places such as the fingers, hands, face and neck, even if they are potentially able to be covered with makeup or otherwise concealed.

Although this matter could have been addressed in the onboarding interview into the training program, several training candidates were abruptly released today for violating what Southwest Airlines calls “Appearance Standards.”

Accor Live Limitless, ITA Airways Launch Loyalty Rewards Partnership

Jan. 23, 2023 —ITA Airways and Accor Live limitless (ALL) on Monday announced the launch of a new reciprocal reward partnership that includes a two-way conversion offer, giving members of their rewards programs the opportunity to convert reward points starting Jan. 26, according to a press release.

Accor’s ALL loyalty points and ITA Airway’s VOLARE points can be transferred at a rate of 4,000 VOLARE points to 1,000 ALL points. Redeemed points can be used for hotel stays around the globe, room upgrades or can be applied to reduce an overall bill. The transferred points can also be applied to booking suites at major sporting events, culinary classes, concerts and other events. ALL points can also be transferred to VOLARE points with every 4,000 ALL points being the equivalent to 5,000 VOLARE points.

“We are proud to partner with ITA Airways, the leading airline company in Italy. Italy is among the most beloved and visited countries on the planet; it is thus one of our priority markets for experience, partnership, and hotel development. This partnership with VOLARE, ITA Airways’ loyalty program illustrates the importance this country holds for Accor and its members. The introduction of this dual reward scheme will enable both ALL – Accor Live Limitless members and VOLARE members to benefit from a richer value proposition coupled with unrivalled services. Partnership with ALL will also give access to VOLARE members to an eco-system with lots of point accumulation and redemption opportunities. Our ambition is to offer a wide variety of rewards, services, and experiences,” according to Ian Di Tullio, chief commercial officer Accor Europe.

Bruce White, Founder of White Lodging, Dies at 70

Jan. 20, 2023—Bruce White, founder and chairman of White Lodging, has died at the age of 70. He had been battling cancer for nearly one year.

“Bruce was a visionary, a leader, and a hospitality icon like no other,” said White Lodging CEO Jean-Luc Barone. “I have learned more from Bruce about hard work, leadership, and family, than any other person in my life. And while he maintained a low public profile and was humble in his impact on the industry, there’s no question that Bruce White helped transform the modern hospitality industry by having a long-term vision, challenging existing norms, and executing at the highest levels—all from a smalltown in Northwest Indiana.”

White founded White Lodging in 1985, and today, his company includes 60 hotels, more than 50 restaurants, 10 rooftop bars and luxury ranches. White Lodging remains family-owned and headquartered in Northwest Indiana.

White made many great achievements during his nearly 40 years in hospitality. After graduating from Purdue University, he later became a member of the inaugural class of the Purdue University School of Hospitality and Tourism Management Hall of Fame; he was also appointed to Purdue University’s board of trustees, where he served from 2011 through early 2015, and is also a member of the university’s Business Hall of Fame.

His accolades include the IHLA Lifetime Achievement Award, the Hunter Hotel Developer Award for Excellence & Inspiration and the Will Koch Indiana Tourism Leadership Award. He had also served on the boards of University of Chicago Hospitals, the Indiana Economic Corporation, the Chicago Economic Club, Big Shoulders Fund, the Terlato Wine Group and Young President’s Organization.

White is survived by his wife, Beth, three adult children and newly born grandchild.

Visit Greater Palm Spring Names Todd Burke Vice President of Communications

Jan. 19, 2023—Visit Greater Palms Springs (VGPS) announced Todd Burke as the new vice president of communications, according to a press release.

In this first-ever role, Burke will support public relations and will lead corporate initiatives that include workforce development, education, sustainability and DEI.

“It’s an honor to have Todd as a part of the team, embarking on an entirely new position for Visit Greater Palm Springs,” said Scott White, president and CEO of VGPS. “With the implementation of this new position, we look forward to utilizing Todd’s experience in aviation and healthcare to elevate our presence within the local community, sharing our organizational priorities, marketing, and PR efforts on topics that impact residents as well as travelers.”

Before moving to Coachella Valley, Burke resided in Washington, D.C., where he served as Senior Vice President for Airlines for America, the trade association representing passenger and cargo airlines in the United States.

Landstar Plans to Announce Fourth Quarter Results Next Month

Jan. 19, 2023—Landstar System, Inc this week announced plans to release their fourth-quarter results, according to a press release.

The asset-light provider of integrated transportation management, with focus on transportation services will publicly announce their 2022 fourth quarter results at the close of the market on February 1, 2023.

The company will hold a quarterly conference call for analysts and investors on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023, to discuss the results and future outlooks. The webcast can be found here.

New Parent Brand, Virgin Hotels Collection, Launches

Jan. 19, 2023—Virgin Hotels and Virgin Limited Edition will come together under the new umbrella Virgin Hotels Collection. Until this point, Virgin Hotels has operated as the “luxury lifestyle hospitality” brand of Virgin Group, and Virgin Limited Edition as a collection of retreats, hotels and exclusive islands owned by Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Group. Virgin Residences will also join the two under the new brand.

James Bermingham, CEO of Virgin Hotels, will become CEO of the new collection on April 1, and Jon Brown, CEO of Virgin Limited Edition, will step down at the end of March.

Following this new development, the company has several property opening in the United States and abroad in the pipeline.

“As if launching Virgin Hotels Collection wasn’t enough, we have an unbelievably exciting year ahead for the new collection,” Bermingham said in a press release, “with the opening of Virgin Hotels in New York, followed by Glasgow and then the widely anticipated launch of Virgin Limited Edition’s beautiful Son Bunyola Hotel in Mallorca’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Thereafter, the launch of Virgin Residences Miami, as well as Virgin Hotels Denver, both in 2025. And we certainly won’t be stopping there.”

Marriott International Announces Instant Booking Solution for Meetings

Jan. 18, 2023—Marriott International and Groups360 today announced the launch of Instant Booking for guest rooms and meeting space at scale for Marriott’s portfolio of hotels in the United States and Canada. The GroupSync Marketplace streamlines the booking process with access to real-time best available group rates and inventory at over 1,500 Marriott properties, with additional growth expected throughout 2023.

While this is expected to benefit planners of small meetings immediately, they can also view inventory availability before submitting an RFP for more complex events at all Marriott hotels globally. The press release about the new feature describes the combination of these new capabilities as an advance that turns the “sourcing” process into the “shopping” or “buying” process, simplifying the way planners book meetings.

“This offers our group customers what they have told us they are looking for, which is a much more seamless and efficient booking experience,” said Drew Pinto, global officer for Marriott International. He also predicted that Marriott team members will be able to receive and respond to RFPs quickly and efficiently through a two-way response process. He described it as “a win-win for both planners and hotels.”

Kemp Gallineau, CEO of Groups360, called Marriott’s involvement a testament to the commitment to reduce friction in group travel planning. With the addition of Marriott International, he anticipates that over 20,000 leading hotel properties will be equipped to offer online group booking in the months ahead.

Boeing, NASA Partnership Aims to Reduce Fuel Use, Carbon Emissions

Jan. 18, 2023—NASA on Wednesday announced the selection of Boeing and its industry team to lead the testing and development of a full-scale Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) demonstrator airplane and will be tested as part of the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD) program, according to a press release.

The purpose of the new partnership is to inform future designs with the goal of reaching a breakthrough in aerodynamics and enhanced fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the new partnership is expected to aid in achieving net zero carbon emissions within the civil aviation industry by 2050 with advancements in propulsion systems, materials and systems architecture.

“The SFD program has the potential to make a major contribution toward a sustainable future,” said Greg Hyslop, Boeing chief engineer and executive vice president of Engineering, Test & Technology. “It represents an opportunity to design, build and fly a full-scale experimental plane, while solving novel technical problems.”

Wynn Las Vegas Launches New Health and Wellness Program

Jan. 18, 2023—Wynn Las Vegas this week announced the new Wynn Living Well program focused on curating health and wellness experiences designed to provide guests with a sense of elevated well-being with every visit, according to a press release.

“Being away from home does not mean you have to compromise on your desire to stay fit, eat right, or enjoy healthy activity—our program was created to provide our guests everything they need to live well, no matter how they choose to define it,” said Brian Gullbrants, Chief Operating Officer North America, Wynn Resorts. “Through the Wynn Living Well program, we’re able to offer our guests world-class instructors, five-star treatments, exclusive fitness programs and health-conscious fine dining at a caliber that only Wynn can deliver.”

The new wellness program is focused on three pillars of health that include renewal, replenish and re-energize. The Wynn Living Well Program features a wide range of activities such as Tom Brady’s TB12 method to bespoke in-room workout videos from Amanda Kloots. Individual and group sessions are available and are offered to both guests and visitors at the resort.

Fontainebleau Miami Unveils Newly Renovated Tresor Tower

Jan. 17, 2023—Fontainebleau Miami on Monday revealed its newly renovated 37-story, all suite Tresor Tower. The renovated tower marks the first full endeavor undertaken by Fontainebleau Development’s in-house design team building off the legacy of the property’s original architect, Morris Lapidus, according to a press release.

“Fontainebleau Miami is known to this day for birthing a golden age in hospitality defined by luxury, style and service and this renovation reflects the past while bringing us into the future,” said Brett Mufson, President of Fontainebleau Development. “As Fontainebleau Development prepares for the highly anticipated opening of Fontainebleau Las Vegas in Q4 2023, we embarked on the renovation to the Tresor Tower to continue to evolve our iconic Miami property and provide guests with a consistent luxury experience across the brand.”

Monterey Peninsula at Risk of Being Cut Off due to California Floods

Jan. 12, 2023—Heavy rains have delt a major blow to the day-to-day lives of many living in the Bay Area with the rash of recent storms. On Thursday, KTVU News reported that the rising level of the Salinas River could potentially flood and cut off the Monterey Peninsula from the mainland, turning the area into an island. The surrounding communities and popular meetings destinations including Carmel and Monterey that are impacted by the flooding have been ordered to evacuate. On January 9, President Joe Biden ordered Department of Homeland Security and Federal emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate disaster efforts. At least 18 deaths have resulted from the flooding throughout the state.

Finavia Airport Co. Aims to Nearly Eliminate Carbon Emissions by 2025

Jan. 11, 2023—Finnish airport company, Finavia, released a new responsibility program outlining measures to nearly end carbon emissions at four of the company’s airports by 2025 in every aspect that’s technologically and economically feasible, according to a press release. “Finavia's operations at all its airports have been carbon neutral since 2019. We have taken practical measures and we have been able to reduce carbon emissions by 64% compared to ten years ago. Next, we aim for our airports to have net zero emissions,” Mikko Viinikainen, Finavia’s Vice President, Sustainability & Environment said. The plan involves Finavia’s airports located in Lapland including Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Ivalo and Kuusamo. A similar plan for Helsinki Airport is expected to be implemented in 2024. “Our objective is to reduce our carbon emissions by 98% over the next three years. At net zero level, there will still remain a couple of per cent points worth of emissions,” Viinikainen said. All electricity consumed at Finavia airports has for several years been 100% generated using wind and solar energy.

Biden Orders Buttigieg to Launch a "Full Investigation"

Jan. 11, 2023— President Biden has ordered Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg to launch a full investigation into the flight delays and cancellations caused by the FAA network breakdown occurring this morning. With uncertainty surrounding the cause of the issue, Biden says he wants to be updated to the causes of the computer outage continuously.

"I told them to report directly to me when they find out," says Biden. "Aircraft can still land safely, just not take off right now. They don't know what the cause of it is, they expect in a couple of hours they'll have a good sense of what caused it and will respond at that time."

Flights Delayed, Canceled Due to FAA Power Outage

Jan. 11, 2023— A computer outage at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded all domestic departures as they work to handle the issue, as the Notice to Air Mission is integral to flight safety. While the system is slowly recovering, over a thousand flights have been delayed and hundreds of others cancelled. In a statement released by the FAA this morning, the administration gave scarce information. "The FAA is still working to fully restore the Notice to Air Missions system following an outage. The FAA has ordered airlines to pause all domestic departures until 9 a.m. Eastern Time to allow the agency to validate the integrity of flight and safety information."

Accor Restructures Under 2 New Divisions

Jan. 10, 2023—Accor has implemented an organizational restructure falling under two new divisions. The restructure follows an announcement made in July 2022 that the hospitality group was planning to make the shift during the first quarter of the year, according to a press release. The restructure consists of a Premium, Midscale & Economy division and a Luxury & Lifestyle division that will both be supported by a Group Management Board and a Global Shared Platform with services including Digital, Technology and Procurement. The restructure is being implemented under the leadership of Sébastien Bazin, Group Chairman & CEO and Jean-Jacques Morin, Group Deputy CEO. The “Premium, Midscale and Economy” division is led by the Executive Committee under the leadership of Jean-Jacques Morin as CEO:

• Thomas DUBAERE, CEO Americas
• Patrick MENDES, CEO Europe & North Africa
• Duncan O’ROURKE, CEO Middle East, Africa, Turkey & Asia Pacific
• Gary ROSEN, CEO Greater China
• Besma BOUMAZA, General Counsel
• Fabrice CARRE, Chief Strategy Officer
• Steven DAINES, Chief Talent & Culture Officer
• Karelle LAMOUCHE, Chief Commercial Officer
• Patrick LAURENT, Chief Financial Officer
• Camil YAZBECK, Chief Development Officer

The “Luxury and Lifestyle” division is led by Executive Committee under the leadership of Sébastien Bazin as CEO:

• Omer ACAR, CEO Raffles & Orient Express (starting March 1^st, 2023)
• Maud BAILLY, CEO Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems
• Gaurav BHUSHAN, Co-CEO Ennismore
• Mark WILLIS, CEO Fairmont
• Gary ROSEN, CEO Greater China
• Kamal RHAZALI, Secretary General & General Counsel (starting Feb 1^st, 2023)
• Agnès ROQUEFORT, Chief Development Officer
• Johny ZAKHEM, Chief Financial Officer

Destinations International Launched Bespoke Event Cancelation Insurance Program

Jan. 9, 2023—Destinations International announced at PCMA’s Convening Leaders in Columbus, Ohio, that a partnership with Nashville-based insurance and risk management company Anderson Benson will offer custom event cancelation insurance and risk management policies. Coverage could include protection of budgeted costs and expenses or revenue should an event be canceled, abandoned or disrupted due to reasons beyond the destination organization’s control. Protection options include traditional force majeure occurrences such as adverse weather and terrorism, but policies can also guard against recent event cancellation issues like civil commotion, national mourning, travel boycotts and bans, among others. Meeting professionals can work with convention and visitors bureaus in their destinations to access the service along with other tools. “Risk mitigation is the biggest issue to getting meetings back on track because it encompasses all of the challenges—civil, weather, economic and otherwise,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “It could allow organizations to make decisions farther in advance.”

PCMA Announced Acquisitions, Alliances and Partnerships

Jan. 9, 2023—PCMA announced during the first day of its annual Convening Leaders conference in Columbus, Ohio, that it had forged a series of acquisitions, alliances and partnerships.

• PCMA acquired Event Leadership Institute, a learning portal with an existing library of 260 videos. CEO Howard Givner will stay on as senior vice president of knowledge and innovation. Current PCMA members will have access to the library at no additional cost.
• PCMA acquired Event Marketing Association-UK, a community of more than 800 corporate event marketing professionals from the United Kingdom.
• PCMA implemented a strategic alliance with National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, a co-locating partner of the 2023 Business Events Industry Week, Power of Purpose, which will convene March 7-9 at Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, National Harbor, Maryland in collaboration with ASAE, AMC Institute, Events Industry Council and Destinations International. The event will move to Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., April 9-11, 2024.
• PCMA partnered with American Geophysical Union, a global earth and science publisher, to focus on active steps to address climate change.

Sherrif Karamat, president and CEO of PCMA and CEMA said, “Covid didn’t happen to us, it happened for us; sometimes things that seem so tragic give us inspiration for what is to come.” He continued, “As of today, we are only moving forward—blazing a trail forward with and for the global business events community.”

U.S. DOT Names New Technical Director of Volpe Center

Jan. 9, 2023—The U.S. Department of Transportation last week named Johnathan Walker, PE, PhD as the new director of the department’s Volpe Center, which oversees the Center for Communications, Navigation, Surveillance and Engineering. The Volpe Center executes over 300 projects annually with a focus on providing a safe, efficient, sustainable and more equitable transportation system, according to a press release. “Jonathan’s experience, perspective, and expertise—from his extensive engineering background to his Marine Corps service—make him perfectly suited to lead our team and direct our work in real-time communications, navigation, surveillance, and decision-support systems,” said U.S. DOT Volpe Center Director Anne Aylward. “We’re thrilled for him to not only lead our FAA portfolio as we support the Administration’s vision to deliver the safest, most efficient transportation system in the world—but also help our team of Volpe experts apply lessons learned from aviation across other transportation modes.”

Horizon Air Announces New Senior Vice President of Operations

Jan. 5, 2023—Horizon Air on Thursday announced that Jason Berry will take up the role as senior vice president of operations at the subsidiary of Alaska Air Group, according to a press release. “We couldn’t be happier to welcome Jason back,” said Horizon Air President Joe Sprague. “Adding talented operational leaders like Jason is great for our business and it’s important for our long-term success at Horizon and Alaska. On a personal level, he is a fantastic person, he ‘gets’ Horizon and he knows our culture, and I’m excited to work with him again.” Berry returns to Alaska Air Group after two years following his role at Air Canada where he served as vice president of cargo. Prior to that, the 27-year industry veteran served as president of Alaska’s wholly owned subsidiary, McGee Air Services in 2019 and 2020 where he oversaw all aspects of aviation services ground handling, check-in and gate services, aircraft grooming and airport mobility services. He was named “Executive of the Year” by Air Cargo World in 2022.

Meet AC Booked 11 Events for New Year

Jan. 4, 2023—In 2022, Meet AC and the Atlantic City Sports Commission hosted 210 competitions, conventions and sporting events across the destination, with 80 of the events taking place at the Atlantic City Convention Center. The destination was proud to host landmark events like the 113th NAACP National Convention in July, the Meet AC Atlantic City Airshow in August, and The Atlantic City Pickleball Open, the world’s largest indoor pickleball tournament in September. “Last year was a landmark year for meetings and conventions in Atlantic City as we began to see planner’s appetites for in-person meetings and events grow following the pandemic,” said Meet AC President and CEO, Larry Sieg. “With the continued surge in both leisure and bleisure travel, we’re expecting to build on the momentum into 2023 with exciting new events such as TakeOff North America 2023, the SHIFT Expo, and the 2023 USRowing Annual Convention and Indoor National Championships.” Other events scheduled for the first quarter of 2023 at Atlantic City Convention Center include The Pool & Spa Show Jan. 24-25 and New Jersey Music Educators Association 2023 State Conference.

Visit Oceanside Collaborates With City to Develop Destination’s First Sustainable Tourism Master Plan

Jan. 4, 2023—Visit Oceanside has partnered with the city of Oceanside to develop the city’s first sustainable tourism master plan, providing a 10-year blueprint for leading its tourism growth toward a sustainable future. The destination will use best practices and criteria laid out by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, one of only two California destinations to do so. According to a press release, the sustainable tourism master plan will provide an action plan for pursuing experiences, product, infrastructure and policies that match the plan’s four objectives: visitor quality experience, quality of economy, environmental quality and resident quality of life. “The initial phase of the project includes a sustainability assessment, destination assessment, competitive analysis and stakeholder engagement,” the press release says. “Input from residents, businesses and city leaders will be gathered through a series of online surveys, focus groups and town halls in the first quarter of 2023. The plan is expected to be completed by the end of the year.” “The pandemic shed a light on the importance of a holistic approach to tourism that balances economic benefit with quality of life for residents and health of the destination,” Visit Oceanside CEO Leslee Gaul said. “We are proud that Oceanside has not only taken a lead in formalizing this effort, but also committed to measuring our future product development, policies and achievements against the leading standard for sustainability in the world.”

Atlantis Paradise Island Hosts Nassau Paradise Wine & Food Festival in Bahamas

Jan. 3, 2023—Tickets are now available for the Nassau Paradise Wine & Food Festival (NFIWFF). The festival is happening between March 15th and March 19th at Atlantis Paradise Island, the Caribbean’s most iconic destination resort in the Bahamas. Attendees can expect appearances from local and regional chefs, music performances, culinary demos, beachside parties, and an Ice Cream Social with a musical performance by Golden Globe-nominated rapper Wyclef Jean. The five-day festival with feature the likes of mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim, chef Alex Guarnaschelli, chef JJ Johnson and many more. Proceeds from the event will support the Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, dedicated to the preserving marine life and its inhabitants throughout the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Campaign for Better Transport Calls for 'Super Tax' on Private Jets in UK

Jan. 3, 2023—The UK-based transportation charity, Campaign for Better Transport, is calling for a new “super tax” that would be imposed on private jets passengers while suggesting that UK lawmakers revoke the Value-Added Tax (VAT)-free status of private jets. Campaign for Better Transport cited the unprecedented amount of pollution created by private jets—roughly five to 14 times more than commercial flights, according to a press release. Passengers flying on private jets pay the same Air Passenger Duty (APD) as those flying First Class and Business Class, but the charity says they should be paying a higher rate of APD. Campaign for Better Transport estimates that an increased tax could generate as much as £14 billion annually. “Private jets are hugely damaging to the environment and are the preserve of the super-rich,” according to Norman Baker, the Director of External Affairs at Campaign for Better Transport, noting that private jet passengers should pay the equivalent for “the damage their flights cause and the proceeds used to help improve public transport for communities up and down the country.”

Design Doyenne Who Drew Travelers to ‘Cool Britannia’ Dies at 81

Dec. 29, 2022 -- Vivienne Westwood, the British fashion designer who began media life as a punk princess and progressed to be a doyenne of UK design, has died at age 81. Westwood started her career at the dawn of Britain’s punk movement but by the 90s and early 2000s had become a stalwart tentpole for British tourism’s “Cool Britannia” marketing positioning. Westwood was more than a name from the runways. She designed uniforms for flight attendants on Virgin Atlantic and in 2014 designed the penthouse suite for The London West Hollywood Beverly Hills hotel. Her influence was a driving force for hotel design in the early days of the “boutique hotel” trend: seen in brands as mainstream as W and as eclectic as the Sanderson London hotel.

Hong Kong Lifts PCR Test Requirements

Dec. 28, 2022—The Hong Kong SAR Government has announced the lifting of all mandatory PCR test requirements for inbound travelers upon arrival in Hong Kong, as well as the lifting of Vaccine Pass which allowed access to specified premises and other measures starting from tomorrow (Dec. 29), Inbound travelers to Hong Kong are now only required to present negative results from PCR tests conducted within 48 hours or rapid antigen tests (RAT) within 24 hours before their flights to Hong Kong. In addition, restrictions on event size will lift, however mask mandates remain.

Miami Achieved LEED Gold

Dec. 28, 2022—The City of Miami announced that it has achieved LEED Gold certification. The City is part of a growing group to be certified using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Cities rating system created by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). The city has pledged Carbon Neutrality by 2050, said Mayor Francis Suarez. “Our resilience planning ensures that all buildings comply with the highest sustainability standards and being named a LEED Gold City is indicative that we are on the right track to building a Miami That Lasts Forever and Works for Everyone,” he said. The city received credits for innovative and measurable initiatives, including resilience planning, environmental justice and an abundance of green spaces. An estimated 87% of City of Miami residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park which substantially exceeds the national average of 55%.

Southwest Tries to Shovel Out of Winter Storm Woes

Dec. 27, 2022—In a historic storm that dumped up to four feet of snow in parts of the U.S., Southwest Airlines came out as the clear “winner” of the cancellation sweepstakes. On Tuesday, when FlightAware recorded 4,763 cancellations after the bulk of the storm late last week, Southwest still had 63% of those cancellations. The Department of Transportation will investigate the airline’s handling of the crisis including its processing refunds to passengers but Capt. Michael Santoro, vice president of the Southwest Airlines Pilot Association was quoted by CNN as saying a major part of the problem was that “our IT infrastructure for our scheduling software is vastly outdated. It can’t handle the number of pilots, flight attendants that we have in the system with our complex route network…So they don’t know where we are, they don’t know where airplanes are, and it’s frustrating for the pilots, the flight attendants, and especially for our passengers.”

Marriott President Leaves for Top Role at Under Armour

Dec. 22, 2022—Marriott International announced yesterday that long-time executive Stephanie Linnartz  has decided to leave the company, effective Feb. 24, 2023 to take on the role of president and CEO of Baltimore, Maryland-based Under Armour. In a statement, Marriott CEO Anthony Capuano said: "On the one hand, I am excited for this next chapter in Stephanie's career. On the other, I am saddened by the departure of such an incredible executive. Beyond the collaborative relationship that Stephanie and I enjoy in our roles, we are good friends, having rooted for each other for more than two decades as we grew in our careers at Marriott and in our lives outside the company. I admire so much about Stephanie – she has this great combination of grit, grace, and humanity – qualities that make her an exceptional leader. To say she will be missed is an understatement – but she will always be part of our Marriott family." Reached for comment, Melissa Froehlich Flood, Marriott global corporate communications and public policy officer said, "Tony has indicated that he'll be working closely with Stephanie and his leadership team on the design of the organization going forward." Linnartz was named a Smart Meetings co-Catalyst Award winner last year along with Capuano.

NYC & Company Reported 56.4 Million Visitors in 2022, a 71% Increase

Dec. 22, 2022—NYC & Company today announced that New York City's economic recovery continued in 2022, with an anticipated 56.4 million travelers arriving in the city by the end of the year—a 71.4% increase over 2021. The city will see 47.4 million domestic and 8.9 million international travelers visit the five boroughs—with international visitation alone more than tripling over 2021. This activity marks the return of 85% of the city's record 2019 visitation levels. New York City remains on pace to attract 61.7 million visitors in 2023, according to the press release. 

U.S. Department of Transportation Funds Rural Projects to Improve Infrastructure

Dec. 21, 2022—The Biden-Harris administration announced today the plans for $274 million investment over 12 projects in rural areas that will improve and expand transportation infrastructure and connect the more remote communities to accessible hubs of transportation. The press release mentions Kalispell, Montana, the state of North Carolina and Todd County, South Dakota, as some of the rural areas that will be aided by the rebuilding of transportation systems with funding from the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program (RSTG). “Infrastructure investments haven’t always reached rural America, leaving far too many roads, bridges and other parts of the transportation system across our country in disrepair,” said Pete Buttigieg, U.S. Transportation Secretary. “Today’s announcement is one of many ways this administration is delivering the investments that rural communities have gone without for far too long, modernizing transportation, creating economic opportunity and making life better for millions of people.”

New Online Booking Platform Will Convert Hotel Reservations into NFTs

Dec. 20, 2022—LIFE Rewards announced today the launch of an online booking platform offering hotel reservations that can be digitized and converted into tradeable, collectible NFTs for the secondary market, similar to how baseball and Broadway tickets are sold. Based on AI that services a large online travel agency, LIFE will launch with discounted prices on millions of hotels globally. Users can pay via credit or debit card. Crypto payments will also be accepted. “Travel and entertainment are ripe for disruption by the blockchain, which enables travel reservations and event tickets to be tokenized and traded securely and seamlessly. Hotels will welcome LIFE, since it helps them solve the problem of high cancellation rates by creating bookings that, for the first time ever, can be traded on secondary markets rather than cancelled when travelers’ plans change,” said Eduardo (Eddie) Ibañez, Scientist at LIFE and former Chief Scientist at Priceline, in a press release.

PCMA Foundation Announces 2023 Groundbreaker and Professional Excellence Finalists, Visionary Award Lifetime Achievement Honorees

Dec. 19, 2022—The PCMA Foundation on Monday announced the 2023 PCMA Visionary Awards Lifetime Achievement Honorees and Groundbreaker and Professional Excellence Finalists for the annual Visionary Awards scheduled for March 9, 2023, during Business Industry Week at Gaylord National in National Harbor, MD., according to a press release. The 2023 Lifetime Achievement Honorees are:

• 2023 Supplier Honoree: Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX Group, IMEX Group – Regent Exhibitions
• 2023 Education Honoree: T. Hickman, Lead Faculty, Dallas College – Richland Campus
• 2023 Business Event Strategist Honoree: Bill Reed, FASAE, CMP, Chief Event Strategy Officer, American Society of Hematology

Business Event Strategist of the Year:

• Kristi Casale, CMP, DMCP
• Lisa McGlashen, CMP, CEM, HMCC
• Alexandra Zapple, CMP, CEM, DES

Community Advocate of the Year:

• Jolene Jang, Consultant and Speaker, Asian Inclusivity Consultancy
• Lakshmee Lachman-Persad, Accessibility Advocate, Accessible Travel NYC
• Mariana Gallo, Director, Meetings and Programs, American Association of Physicists in Medicine

Digital Experience Strategist of the Year:

• Jodi VanWoerkom, CMP, Senior Event Manager, Association for Talent Development
• Cynthia Smith, CMP, DES,Virtual Event Manager, American Physical Society
• John Chen, Chief Executive Officer, Engaging Virtual Meetings

Event Designer of the Year:

• Megan Finnell, CMP, Director, Meetings & Conferences, MGMA
• Beth Surmont, FASAE, CMP, CAE, Vice President, Event Strategy and Design, 360 Live Media
• Kristi Casale, CMP, DMCP, Vice President for Meetings and Continuing Education, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

Groundbreaker:

• Gary Murakami, GTP, GLP, CMP-Fellow, CMM, DES Vice President of Sales & Industry Relations, Teneo Hospitality Group
• Constance Samuels, MBA, CMP, DES,Director of Events and Education, The National Association of Professional Employer Organizations
• Sheila Wong, CEM, DES,Senior Vice President, BBW Event Staff

Outstanding Service to a Chapter or Region:

• Susan Saganski, CMP, DES,Global Account Executive, Marriott International (Canada East Chapter)
• Joni Opperman, Director of Sales, Association Group Sales, Hilton Worldwide Sales (Greater Midwest Chapter)
• Leah Lewis, CMP, DES,Director of Meetings, American Gear Manufacturers Association, (Capital Chapter)

Supplier of the Year:

• Tim Mathy, Senior Partner, SpeakInc.
• Kristen Parker, CASE, Director of Eastern Regional Sales, Visit Austin
• Rob Venus, General Manager, Freeman

Metro Toronto Convention Centre Sets Records for Securing Major Conventions

Dec. 19, 2022—The Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Monday announced that it has set two facility records for securing major conventions in 2022 and during the 2023/24 fiscal year. The MTCC is Canada’s leading convention facility and is scheduled to host 21 citywide conventions in the 2023/24 fiscal year—the highest yearly total for the convention in its 38-year history and is expected to generate an estimated $246 million in revenue for Toronto, according to a press release. The MTCC broke a second record for booking seven international meetings slated to take place over future years, the most secured in one year. These meetings will take place between 2025 and 2030 and are each expected to bring between 2,000 and 4,000 attendees to the region from around the world. “Our team continues to work tirelessly to book meetings and conventions that make key economic contributions to the province and our city. These results are a positive signal for the business events industry and our facility following a few challenging years,” said Lorenz Hassenstein, President and CEO of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. “Particularly, booking international meetings is an extremely competitive process, and we would like to thank our industry partners at Destination Toronto, the Leaders Circle and the incredible local experts we work with for their continuous collaboration and support.” “The MTCC is a world-class venue with a proven track record for hosting major events and conventions that help generate a positive economic impact – for both the City of Toronto and the province,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “This record-breaking achievement is a clear indication that the centre is making great contributions to Ontario’s tourism industry, ensuring the province remains a premier attraction for convention attendees and tourists alike.”

Mesa Airlines to Expand Service with United, Winds Down Contract with American Airlines

Dec. 19, 2022—Mesa Airlines on Monday announced the regional air carrier will wind down its partnership with American Airlines following unprofitable operations with the carrier and will now expand service with United Airlines, according to a press release. The final day of operations between Mesa and American will be April 3, 2023, with Mesa expected to begin placing aircraft with United in March 2023, but will continue to utilize all of its crew and maintenance locations currently operated by American in Phoenix, Dallas, El Paso, and Louisville during the transition and beyond. “I’d like to thank our long-time friends at American Airlines,” said Jonathan Ornstein, Mesa Chairman and CEO. “Our relationship with American began in 1992 when Mesa initiated flying as a codeshare partner with America West after investing in its reorganization. Over the last 30 years, we’ve been through a lot together and we will always appreciate the opportunity to work as America West Express, US Air Express, and American Eagle.”

Visalia Is First Certified Autism Destination

Dec. 15, 2022—Visalia, California announced in a press release today that the city has become the nation’s first Certified Autism Destination. The distinction is awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) for the progressive initiatives Visalia has implemented to ensure travelers with autism are able to enjoy adventurous tourism and all it has to offer. "We are truly honored to obtain the Certified Autism Destination designation," said John Oneto, board chair of Visit Visalia. "Visalia has long-prided itself in being a welcoming and inviting community and this was a collective effort by the tourism industry to make experiences sensory-friendly and remove barriers, ensuring every visitor can feel comfortable during and enjoy their stay as they explore our vibrant downtown and nearby national parks."

Bizzabo Receives SOC Type 2 Certification

Dec. 15, 2022—The event Experience Operating System Bizzabo has achieved Service Organization Control (SOC) Type 2 compliance, a data security and management certification from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. "This certification analyzes Bizzabo's security processes to ensure we meet industry standards for our operating systems and customer and attendee data, so you can plan your event knowing you're fully compliant," said Boaz Katz, chief data officer and co-founder of Bizzabo.

Hyatt Consolidates Under Inclusive Collection Brand

Dec. 15, 2022—Hyatt announced today that brands previously part of AMR Collection will now live under the Inclusive Collection, part of World of Hyatt umbrella, which includes the all-inclusive brands Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara. The result will be a selection of 120 resorts across 40 beachfront destinations and 11 countries, including Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, South America and Europe. Services such as Endless Privileges, Unlimited-Luxury and Unlimited-Fun will still be available and World of Hyatt points benefits apply.

Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau Launches New Planner-friendly Website

Dec. 15, 2022—The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) announced today the launch of its reimagined website at MiamiandMiamiBeach.com featuring the latest in personalization and artificial intelligence in addition to innovative immersive experiences for deeper storytelling. Meeting planners will have access to enhanced features, including detailed partner listings and access to meeting space details, floorplans and image galleries. Search features available in nine languages—English, Spanish, Creole, Portuguese, German, French, Italian, Mandarin and Russian—offer information about hotels and venues based on individual needs. The internal GMCVB sales team is empowered to create personalized webpages for specific meeting planner prospects.

New Urban Resort to Open in Vietnam in 2024

Dec. 14, 2022—Those seeking luxury and a steaming bowl of Pho will get their new years wish in 2024. According to a press release, the Wafaifo Hoi An resort located in central Vietnam will be the first project of its kind for the hospitality firm. The resort will contain 118 rooms with air conditioning and 1,722 sq. ft. of meeting space. Created by Managing Director Peter van der Hoeven and Commercial Director Mikkel Krantz, the flagship resort aims to bring international attention and interest to the area. The company aims to have more information available publicly in 2023.

Oak View Group Assumes Management of Greenville Convention Center

Dec. 14, 2022—The third-party venue management arm of Oak View Group, OVG360, announced yesterday that it entered a partnership with City of Greenville Partners to manage day-to-day operations of the 280,000-square-foot Greenville Convention Center in South Carolina, working closely with Greenville Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The City is eager to work with Oak View Group to position Greenville as a premier destination for conventions,” said Greenville City Manager John McDonough. Among the more than 200 venues OVG360 manages in the South are: the Durham Convention Center in Durham, North Carolina; Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami, Florida; Greater Richmond Convention Center in Richmond, Virginia; Palm Beach County Convention Center in West Palm Beach, Florida; and Central Bank Center in Lexington, Kentucky. The company also manages the Atlantic City Convention Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey; Duke Energy Center in Cincinnati, Ohio; Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas; and Overland Park Convention Center in Overland Park, Kansas. 

NY and LA Asks People to Mask Up

Dec. 13, 2022—Health officials in New York and Los Angeles have issued statements suggesting but not yet mandating the use of masks indoors as Covid rates, RSV and flu rates rise in both cities. The New York City Health Commissioner issued a Health Advisory on Friday, Dec. 9, that urged New York City residents to “use high-quality masks when indoors and in crowded outdoor settings. This is especially important for people who are—or are meeting—those who are at increased risk for complications from Covid-19, RSV or the flu, such as those age 65 and older and people who are immunocompromised” In Los Angeles, officials reported that “with a rise in Covid-19 cases, Los Angeles County moved into the CDC High Community Level this week, prompting Public Health officials to ask all residents to layer in sensible health protections including indoor masking and getting vaccinated and boosted. “With the Covid-19 case rate reaching 258 Covid-19 cases per 100,000 people this week, and almost 15 hospital admissions per 100,000 people, the CDC High Community Level designation reflects both high transmission and increased stress on hospitals.  The stress on the healthcare system is compounded by high rates of influenza and other respiratory illnesses.”

Air Canada Vice President Named Cargo Executive of The Year

Dec. 12, 2022—Air Canada on Monday congratulated Air Canada Vice President, Cargo, Jason Berry for being named Cargo Executive of The Year by Air Cargo World. Air Canada Cargo posted record revenues in 2021 under Barry’s leadership and continues to expand its business through investments in technology and infrastructure, according to a press release. "This award is a very well-deserved recognition for Jason, which I know he shares with his team. Since joining Air Canada to lead our cargo division, he has demonstrated his ability to build and lead a strong team that is well positioned to drive our cargo business forward. Coming to Air Canada Cargo at the height of the pandemic presented a unique set of challenges, and he rose to meet them head on. He sought out new opportunities, implemented new strategies, oversaw the introduction of our Boeing 767 freighters and furthered investments in technology and our people to position the business for growth and continued success," said executive vice-president and chief commercial officer at Air Canada, Lucie Guillemette.

Marriott's EDITION Brand Plans to Double Number of Hotels by 2027

Dec. 7, 2022—Marriott International announced today that by 2027, it will add 15 new hotels globally to the 15 the luxury lifestyle properties it already operates in New York City, London, Miami Beach, West Hollywood and beyond, effectively doubling the footprint of the brand. Five will launch in 2023 in Rome; Riviera Maya, Mexico; Singapore; and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; along with a second location in Tokyo. Following the success of EDITION residences as part of hotel developments in Miami, West Hollywood and Tampa, Florida, the first standalone EDITION residences are under development in Florida's Miami Edgewater and Fort Lauderdale.

New Meet Boston Brand Launched

Dec. 7, 2022—Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau announced a new name, corporate identity and tourism campaign today at its Annual Meeting. Meet Boston will launch a "Boston Never Gets Old" campaign to event planners, marathon runners and leisure travelers that draws from two major truths: Boston is still forging its identity, and Boston is a city that was built by motion and is designed to stay in motion. It will highlight the sports and entertainment industry, culture and food scene. “Tourism is integral to the Boston and Bay State economy, and it was time for us to further invest in promoting all that we have to offer to draw large-scale, international events to Boston. Boston is a global city that always deserves to be on the world stage,” said Martha J. Sheridan, President & CEO of Meet Boston. “We have five-star hotels, world-class venues, art exhibitions, incredible professional sports teams and 23 diverse neighborhoods where 76 different languages are spoken. We also have 400 years of history that is not to be forgotten as we look to the future. The new ‘Meet Boston’ corporate identity reflects our plans to continually elevate Boston across the world, and the ‘Boston Never Gets Old’ advertising and marketing campaign captures both our tradition and innovation.”

Hyatt Hotels Launches New Brand

Dec. 7, 2022—Hyatt Hotels Corporation has launched a new all-inclusive, adults-only brand, Secrets Impression Resorts & Spas, under its AMR Collection. The first property to open under the new brand is Secrets Impression Moxche, which opened Dec. 1 in Corasol, Playa del Carmen’s gated community. The resort features three suite categories: two-story oceanfront penthouses, master suites and signature suites, as well as in-room terraces and access to a dedicated beach area. The property also has more than 14,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and 10 breakout rooms. “The launch of Secrets Impression reflects Hyatt’s commitment to offering best-in-class, all-inclusive resort experiences,” said Gonzalo del Peon, Group President of AMResorts Americas & Global Commercial. “This new concept focuses on the two most important aspects guests look for when booking their stay: service level and experiences, to ensure every moment is set to leave a lasting impression.” The brand’s second property, Secrets Impression Isla Mujeres, just off Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, is scheduled to open March 15, 2023.

U.S. Dept. of Labor Recovers Back Wages for Misclassified Employees of Panama City Beach Hotels

Dec. 6, 2022—The U.S. Department of labor on Tuesday announced the recovery of $503,053 in back wages for hotel employees of a Panama City Beach hotel staffing agency after they were misclassified as independent contractors by their employer. The misclassification was discovered by the Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division, which resulted in employees being paid straight-time rates, regardless if their work week included overtime that exceeded 40 hours, according to a press release. “Federal labor law includes strict criteria for classifying workers as independent contractors. Misclassified workers are illegally denied their full pay, benefits and legal protections,” said Wage and Hour Division District Director Wildalí De Jesús in Orlando, Florida. “We encourage employers to use the resources the Wage and Hour Division offers to understand proper pay practices and avoid the costly consequences of violations.” Touch of Grace Services LLC provides staffing to several Panama City Beach hotels. Investigators from the Department of Labor also found that the staffing agency failed to accurately track the records of hours worked and subsequent wages paid to some employees.

New Naming Rights Deal Announced for Tahoe Blue Center

Dec. 5, 2022—Tahoe Douglas Visitors Authority and Oak View Group announced an exclusive multi-year naming rights agreement with Tahoe Blue Vodka. The live entertainment, sports and conference center on the south shore of Lake Tahoe will be named Tahoe Blue Center after the sprit made from water from the alpine lake. Located in Stateline, Nevada, Tahoe Blue Center is slated for a July 2023 opening and will host 130 events annually, including conferences, concerts, corporate and sporting events. The Center will accommodate up to 6,000 guests per event and could bring 200,000 guests a year. "The center is a significant investment in the destination's sustainable future and year-round economic health and we're pleased to announce this wonderful representation of local partnership," said Carol Chapin, president and CEO of Tahoe Douglas Visitors Authority in a press release.

Boeing Appoints New International Leaders

Dec. 5, 2022—Boeing on Sunday announced former Australian diplomat Dr. Brenden Nelson AO will take over as president of Boing International and will lead the company’s corporate operations and international strategy. Nelson’s appointment is slated to follow the retirement of his predecessor Sir Michael Arthur following his retirement in early 2023. "Brendan brings to his new position vast experience in government and diplomacy, industry and non-profit associations, that will serve us well as we continue to grow as a global company while navigating the dynamics of the geopolitical environment," said Boeing President and CEO Dave Calhoun. Maria Fernandez will then take Nelson’s place as president of Boeing Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific on Dec. 20, according to a press release. "Maria has had a distinguished career with more than 20 years of leadership experience in the Australian national security sector and was the first woman to lead an Australian intelligence agency. She has the ideal background for this position," Nelson said. Prior to her appointment, Fernandez ran a consultancy that provided strategic advisory and independent assurance services to Australian government agencies. In addition, Fernandez held executive roles with Australia's departments of Home Affairs, Defense, Immigration and Border Protection and Education.

Airlines Had Deep Dive, Are Now Nose Up with Delta Leading

Dec. 2, 2022 - The Cirium World Airline Group Finance rankings results for 2021 and the first half of 2022 show that “the steep decline in airline revenues has translated into a net loss of nearly $220 billion in the past two and a half years since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic." The study found:

• Airline groups added another $42 billion in net losses in 2021 and $15 billion for the first half of 2022.
• The US industry is on course to return to profitability in 2022, with Delta Air Lines already reclaiming top place in the first half ranking.
• Losses appear to be worsening in China as COVID-19 lockdowns take their toll on traffic, dampening recovery in the Asia-Pacific region as a whole.

Delta Airlines is Staffing Up

Nov. 30, 2022 - Delta Airlines reports that it will be hiring from 4,000 to 6,000 new flight attendants in 2023. “Our flight attendants have a unique opportunity to make a profound, lasting impact on the 200 million customers we serve every year,” said Jennifer Martin, managing director – IFS CX, learning and hiring in a release. Major US airlines have been criticized post-Covid for offering retirement and other exit packages to staffers after agreeing to a no lay-off policy in order to receive Covid relief funds.

WTTC partners with Sustainable Hospitality Alliance

Nov. 30, 2022—A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed by World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Sustainable Hospitality Alliance in a progressive move towards the hospitality industry growing more environmentally and socially responsible. In a press release yesterday, Julia Simpson, President and CEO of WTTC, said “The Sustainable Hospitality Alliance of our Hotel Sustainability Basics which are the first step in the ladder to advance sustainability in the industry…our collective efforts will enable the hospitality industry to continue moving towards a greater positive impact through this new partnership.”

Terminal 8 Opens at JFK for American Airlines and British Airways

Nov. 30, 2022—Travelers will be welcomed to the newly renovated Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) on December 1^st. American Airlines and British Airways will cohabitate the gateways of the new terminal while the interior offers modern lounges and a sophisticated New York vibe. Governor Kathy Hochul was quoted in an American Airlines press release. “The completion of Terminal 8 is the latest milestone in our historic efforts to build a whole new JFK worthy of New York,” says Hochul. “I congratulate American Airlines, British Airways and the Port Authority for the first of what will be many milestones to come. We will continue our close partnerships as we transform JFK into a magnificent global gateway that will help to keep New York at the center of the world stage.”

Frontier Airlines Cuts Customer Support Line

Nov. 29, 2022—Travelers flying with Frontier Airlines will no longer be able to speak with customer support as the airline has transitioned call centers to a digitized self-service platform, according to its Investor Day report released on Nov. 15. The move to “fully digital communications” is due to call centers being “unscalable, inefficient and expensive” with “manual, labor-intensive back-office processes,” the report reads. The transition will also remove the “avenue for customer negotiation.” The transition will also result in a reduction in customer service positions from 575 to roughly 350. “We have found that most customers prefer communicating via digital channels,” said Jennifer De La Cruz, a spokesperson for Frontier Airlines, in an email. “Customers can visit our website and interact initially with a chatbot, which provides answers to common questions. If live agent support is needed, we have live chat available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

Hyatt Hotels to Acquire Dream Hotels Group

Nov. 29, 2022—Hyatt Hotels & Resorts has made a deal to purchase lifestyle hospitality company Dream Hotel Group for $300 million. The company has agreed to pay an initial price of $125 million and will pay the additional $175 million over a six-year period, as new Dream Hotel Group properties open, of which there are 24 in the pipeline, with projects slated to open in Las Vegas, St. Lucia and Doha, Qatar. The deal will add a dozen hotels and more than 1,700 rooms under Dream Hotel Group’s The Chatwal Hotels, Dream Hotels, Unscripted Hotels and By Dream Hotel Group brands in destinations such as New York City; Nashville, Tennessee; Hollywood, California; Durham, North Carolina; and the Catskills. Dream Hotel Group CEO Jay Stein will join the Hyatt team, as head of Dream Hotels.

Rolls-Royce, easyJet Complete First Run of Modern Aero Engine Using Hydrogen

Nov. 28, 2022—Rolls-Royce and easyJet on Monday confirmed the successful ground test of a modern aero engine on hydrogen, setting an aviation milestone, according to a press release. The test marks another step by the aviation industry in reducing carbon emissions by utilizing green hydrogen created by tidal and wind power. The test provided the world with its first glimpse at using the zero-carbon aviation fuel. “The UK is leading the global shift to guilt-free flying, and today’s test by Rolls-Royce and easyJet is an exciting demonstration of how business innovation can transform the way we live our lives,” said Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Grant Shapps. “This is a true British success story, with the hydrogen being used to power the jet engine today produced using tidal and wind energy from the Orkney Islands of Scotland—and is a prime example of how we can work together to make aviation cleaner while driving jobs across the country.” A converted Rolls-Royce AE 2100-A regional aircraft engine was used during the test, which took place at the outdoor test facility at MoD Boscombe Down in the United Kingdom. EMEC (European Marine Energy Centre) provided the hydrogen that was generated at the tidal test facility on Eday in the Orkney Islands.

Melbourne Convention Bureau Secured $203 Million in Business Events

Nov. 27, 2022—Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) announced that for the 2021/2022 fiscal year, the destination marketing organization had booked 110 events, bringing 53,200 guests and contributing $203 million to the Victoria economy. That is a 33% increase from the previous year. Speaking at the company’s Annual General Meeting, MCB Chief Executive Officer Julia Swanson reflected on the year that evolved “despite the restrictions on operations for the first half of 2021-2022, we delivered a buoyant outcome with the demand and recovery for business events in Melbourne occurring faster than expected. She pointed to a key highlight from the year was Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) 2022, which " kick-started the business events industry," bringing together international and local buyers to access 225 exhibitors from around the world. “We’re also seeing confidence across international markets rebound at pace with the return of international corporate, meeting and incentive groups, site visit re-engagement and enriched experiences for event organizers and delegates across both international and domestic segments," said Swanson.

Las Vegas to Host 2028 Men’s NCAA Final Four

Nov. 22, 2022—The NCAA Men’s Final Four, also known as the “Big Dance,” will take place at Allegiant Stadium in 2028—the first time the collegiate basketball championship will take place in Sin City, according to a press release. The games are slated for April 1 to April 3 at the $2 billion, 65,000-seat arena located near the Vegas Strip. “The Raiders are thrilled to welcome the NCAA and college basketball fans from around the world to Las Vegas and our home at Allegiant Stadium,” said Sandra Douglass Morgan, president of the Las Vegas Raiders and Las Vegas NCAA Final Four bid team. The latest announcement follows several other marquee sporting events to land in Las Vegas including the NFL Draft, NFL Pro Bowl, Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, which will take place in 2023 and Super Bowl LVIII in 2024. “We couldn’t be more excited to be a part of hosting the NCAA Men’s Final Four in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium," said UNLV Director of Athletics Erick Harper. "Our city has been a hub for basketball on all levels for many years and now to welcome one of the premier events in all of sports is a culmination of how Las Vegas has truly become the Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World. We look forward to working closely with the LVCVA and the NCAA to put on an amazing event like our city is known for."

U.S. Virgin Islands Reported Strong Hotel Recovery

Nov. 21, 2022—High occupancy rates, new hotels, resort development, and airline partnerships in the USVI were the news highlights that USVI Department of Tourism Commissioner, Joseph Boschulte, shared last week at the annual Caribbean Hotel Investment Conference & Operations Summit (CHICOS) in the Dominican Republic. He noted the new builds and rebuilds that will be coming to the Caribbean in 2023 and included the two new properties opening in St. Thomas this winter, the first in 30 years for the island: The Westin Beach Resort and Spa at Frenchman’s Reef; and The Seaborn at Frenchman’s Reef, an Autograph Collection. The new brand campaign, “Naturally in Rhythm,” supports the hotel recovery and is designed to inspire visitors to fall naturally in rhythm with the diverse culture, natural wonders, and beautiful hotels and resorts of St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John.

First Phase of Major Expansion of ExCeL London Now Complete

Nov. 21, 2022—The first phase of the expansion project underway at the over 100,000,000-square-foot ExCeL London convention center is now complete. The project will expand the carbon-neutral convention center by 270,000 sq. ft. adding additional state-of-the-art ICC convention facilities, exhibition halls, conference rooms and outdoor spaces, according to a press release. The new addition on the ground floor of the facility will feature 130,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space, which will be integrated into the existing venue and will be complemented by high-end meeting space and rooms on the upper level. The expansion project has targeted the most sustainable plan possible and is seeking to obtain a Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) rating of "Excellent" with an electrical supply derived completely from renewable sources. The next phase of the project will be carried out by McLaren Construction.

Caesars Entertainment Debuts Ramsay’s Kitchen at Harrah’s Las Vegas

Nov. 18, 2022—Caesars Entertainment hosted the grand opening reception of Ramsay’s Kitchen at Harrah's Las Vegas Wednesday, featuring a video message from the multi-Michelin-starred Chef Gordon Ramsay, according to a press release. “I can’t wait to introduce one of my newer restaurant concepts and the first of its kind on the West Coast to Harrah’s guests,” Ramsay said. “The menu features some of my favorite dishes I’ve created at home in my own kitchen, but with that special Vegas flair.” The reception offered guests the opportunity to savor some of the restaurant's signature dishes and starters such as Tuna Tartare, made with chili garlic soy, sour cream, avocado and wonton crisps, Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, served with citrus herb aioli and frisée salad, Pan Seared Scallops with house-cured pork belly, apricot purée, pomegranate, orange and Beef Wellington with potato purée to name a few. Vice President of Culinary at Gordon Ramsay North America Christina Wilson was also in attendance Wednesday and was joined by Caesars Entertainment executives during a commemorative toast to celebrate one of Ramsay’s newest culinary ventures—the sixth to open on Caesars property. Wilson was the winning contestant of the tenth season of Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen in 2012.

Central Subway in San Francisco Connects the City

Nov. 18, 2022 —The long-awaited Central Subway connecting San Francisco's Moscone Convention Center to more of the city's neighborhoods and attractions is launching a soft opening this weekend. According to a press release from San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA), the special weekend service will begin on Saturday, Nov. 19th, 2022, from the hours of 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. Trains will arrive approximately every twelve minutes and include stations for Moscone Convention Center, Yerba Buena Gardens, the Metreon and SFMOMA and Chinatown.

Food Service Workers at Major Convention Centers Threaten Strike

Nov. 18, 2022 - Sodexo food service workers at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando and Centerplate food service workers at the Las Vegas Convention Center (Centerplate is owned by Sodexo) as well as Sodexo food service workers in New Orleans, Sacramento and Detroit have announced a planned press conference on Monday, November 21 to discuss the possibility of a strike. The Orange County Convention Center in Orlando is the third-largest convention center in the U.S. and the Las Vegas Convention Center is the second-largest convention center in the country. In a release on the planned press conference, UNITE HERE, the hospitality worker’s union quotes Jackeline Ponce, a Sodexo retail concessions worker at the Orange County Convention Center as saying, “I support a strike because I need more money in my pocket to pay my bills when the cost of living has gone up so much. I struggle with food, rent, and gas with the money I make. I make $13.60 and our convention center is one of the biggest in the country. My coworkers and I are ready to do what it takes to win the contract we need." The release goes on to say that “The bargaining units and disputes at each convention center are distinct. While specific issues vary from city to city, key issues across all five convention centers operated by Sodexo include wage increases, affordable health care, secure retirement, and fair scheduling.”  

Miles Partnership and Tourism Diversity Matters Launch Apprenticeship Program

Nov. 18, 2022—Tourism marketing consultancy Miles Partnership will be partnering with Tourism Diversity Matters (TDM) to create an apprenticeship program in 2023. The program was developed to support recent or upcoming business graduates with an interest in travel and hospitality. The program will be a paid opportunity for apprentices to receive a hands-on experience at Miles Partnership. They will receive training in various areas of the organization, including diversity, equity and inclusion, finance and operations, marketing and communications, and strategic planning. “We are thrilled to be the first tourism marketing agency to launch an apprenticeship program in collaboration with TDM,” said Melissa Cherry, chief diversity and inclusion officer and senior vice president at Miles Partnership. “Participating in the TDM Apprenticeship Program aligns with Miles’ mission to enrich lives through travel—which is only possible through an active and intentional commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.” Applications are due Dec. 16, 2022.

Los Cabos Projects 20% Growth in Visitation

Nov. 17, 2022 –Los Cabos Tourism Board announced today that the destination at the tip of Mexico's Baja Peninsula expects to welcome more than 3.3 million visitors for the 12 month period ending in December–a more than 20 percent projected growth when compared to 2021 and a 32% compounded growth over the last five years. The growth was attributed to  flexible business model, high quality of services, an enhanced safety and security approach, and integration of its private and public sectors to strengthen international promotional efforts.   Los Cabos has over 1.3 million seats from the United States scheduled for the next six months (October 2022 to March 2023), representing a 35.2% increase when compared to the same period in 2019. More than 1,500 new hotel rooms–many focused on sustainability and wellness–are expected from 2022-2024, including Rancho Pescadero of the Unbound Collection (by the end of 2022), St. Regis Los Cabos at Quivira (2023), Four Seasons Resort and Residences Cabo San Lucas at Cabo del Sol (late 2023), Park Hyatt (2023), Vidanta East Cape (2024), Amanvari (2024), Soho House & Beach Club (2024), and Casa Vela (2023). 

Registration Opens for 2023 Power of Purpose

Nov. 17, 2022 –PCMA, Destinations International, and IAEE announced yesterday that Power of Purpose–Business Events Industry Week 2023, a collaborative effort to unite the global business events industry, will take place March 7-9 at Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. The second annual multi-day experience will offer five programs, including: 2023 Showcase trade show, a new PCMA Foundation Fashion Show called “Living in Color”, IAEE’s Women’s Leadership Forum and Reception, Destinations International’s Convention Sales and Services Summit.

ASAE Will Bring Executive Leadership Forum to Vancouver in June, 2023

Nov. 16, 2022 –ASAE announced today it will hold its Executive Leadership Forum 2023 June 4-6, 2023, at JW Marriott Parq Vancouver in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The two-day Executive Leadership Forum is designed as a concentrated learning and networking opportunity for association CEOs and C-suite leaders to explore challenges and opportunities facing their organizations. ASAE has a long-standing strategic partnership with Destination Canada Business Events. Vancouver is home to the world's first double LEED Platinum certified convention center.

BESydney Brought 47,000 Delegates to New South Wales

Nov. 16, 2022 –Despite a third financial year impacted by the pandemic, Business Events Sydney (BESydney) reported a strong return of business events to Sydney and delivered a future vision that incorporates key learnings from the pandemic at its Annual General Meeting today. The Financial Report for the year 2021-2022, showed the company secured 31 meetings, attracting 47,000 delegates, generating an estimated AU$132 million in direct expenditure to the New South Wales economy.  BESydney CEO, Lyn Lewis-Smith said, “In FY 2021-2022 our rally call was, ‘Dare to rise,’ to build back best. For all its challenges, the pandemic moved us to reconsider what we do and how we do it.” He added, “The forward pipeline of events is strong with future business to 2029 comprising 85 global and national events that will generate an estimated $483 million in direct expenditure and attract 111,000 delegates to our city.”  

Travel Santa Ana Launches “Proud Santanero” Campaign

Nov. 16, 2022 –The new southern California destination marketing organization Travel Santa Ana debuted “Proud Santanero,” a brand campaign that taps local artists and artisans to illustrate the originality of the people in the destination. The campaign will tell stories through the artistic expression of residents. “It makes sense to harness what makes this city great and stand apart from others—our people and diverse cultures,” said Wendy Haase, president and CEO of Travel Santa Ana. Travel Santa Ana filmed eight local business owners, posing the question of what makes them a proud Santanero. Playing on the destination’s city pride and close community, the video series also uses the tagline: “When it’s Santa Ana vs. Everybody, Always Bet on Us.” Featured creatives include Carlos “Charlie” Barragan (Charlie’s Tattoo Supply), Robert Bergman (The Visioneering Studios), Norah Briceno Brower (Mil Jugos), Logan Crow (Frida Cinema), Raymond Rangel (R & R Western Wear), Jon Sanchez (Native Son), Delilah Snell (Alta Baja Market), and Raul Yanez (Mi Moda).

JetBlue Adds Service to Paris in 2023

Nov. 16, 2022 –JetBlue has announced their plans for service to Paris to be fully operational by summer 2023. The transatlantic destination service follows their successful launch of the five daily flights into London beginning in August 2021. In the press release this morning, JetBlue promises transatlantic flights with affordable travel fares. “JetBlue is offering something completely unique to what you get from the big global legacy airlines on these routes – where a single high-fare joint venture operates nearly three-quarters of the flying,” said Robin Hayes, chief executive officer, JetBlue. “The response to our London service is proof that combining great service with low fares works. We can’t wait to bring our reimagined Mint and core offerings to Continental Europe’s most visited city.” JetBlue flights from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) will help bolster affordable transatlantic travel for upcoming events in Paris. Anne-Laure Tuncer, Director USA Atout France, welcomes JetBlue. “With so much pent up demand, JetBlue is just in time to have their American customers experience the vitality and diversity of France’s offerings, new culinary itineraries, exciting upcoming sporting events – such as the Rugby World Cup 2023 and the Paris Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games 2024 – and everything else France is known for.”

New Enforcement Actions from DOT Issue $600 million in Refunds to Travelers

Nov. 15, 2022—U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced today in a press release that more than a half billion dollars would be distributed to travelers across six airlines who were owed a refund for canceled flights or extreme travel disruption. The new enforcement actions extend further as DOT promised to assess the civil penalties in these six airlines reported to be more than $7.25 million. The airlines facing fines from the DOT are Frontier, Air India, TAP Portugal, Aeromexico, El Al, and Avianca. “When a flight gets canceled, passengers seeking refunds should be paid back promptly. Whenever that doesn’t happen, we will act to hold airlines accountable on behalf of American travelers and get passengers their money back,“ said Pete Buttigieg, Secretary of U.S. Transportation. “A flight cancellation is frustrating enough, and you shouldn’t also have to haggle or wait months to get your refund.”

U.S. Department of Transportation aids El Yunque National Forest After Fiona

Nov. 14, 2022—The U.S Department of Transportation announced it will be allocating $5.2 million to the U.S Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service as a “quick release” Emergency Relief to aid the cost of rebuilding Puerto Rico’s El Yunque National Forest in the wake of Hurricane Fiona in a press release today. The U.S. Department of Transportation has also given $8 million in funding to the Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority (PRHTA) to repair damage to the island’s infrastructure. Both the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Forest Service will have to work closely to not only repair the damage to the highways and the national park in general, but to fortify the infrastructure of El Yunque National Forest to withstand future natural disasters. “The Federal Highway Administration is working closely with the Forest Service to repair the damage caused by heavy rainfall in El Yunque National Forest,” said Stephanie Pollack, acting federal highway administrator. “The emergency relief funding we are providing will help get those repairs done as soon as possible and better prepare this area for future rain events.”

Aero Design Labs, Delta Test Technology to Decrease Aircraft Emissions

Nov. 14, 2022—In an effort to meet its net-zero emissions goal by 2025, Delta Airlines has partnered with Aero Design Labs to test novel drag-reduction technology on its 737-800 and 737-900 fleets with the goal of using less fuel by improving aerodynamics, according to a press release. “This is a partnership formed by Delta and Aero Design Labs to contribute to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) net zero 2050 carbon reduction targets," said Chris Jones, Chief Commercial Officer Aero Design Labs. "Delta Air Lines has a proven history of leading the industry in innovation and we are proud to formalize our agreement and partner in the process to achieve FAA certification.” The technology includes FAA testing and certification and will be implemented to Delta's 737-800 aircraft starting in the first quarter of 2023 with the use of the technology on the B737-900 fleet in the second half of 2023. Upon certification of the drag-reducing technology, Delta will have the option to purchase Aero Design Lab ADRS kits to outfit more than 200 aircraft across two fleets. "This is part of Delta's overall approach to taking short-, medium-, and long-term actions to reach our goal of net zero by 2050," Pam Fletcher, Delta's Chief Sustainability Officer said. "Our partnership with Aero Design Labs is a great example of how Delta continues to invest in new ways to modify our operations to make an immediate impact on our carbon footprint today, while we work on longer-term solutions to decarbonize our industry."

Cvent and Zoom Partner to Deliver Hybrid Events

Nov. 11, 2022—Event technology provider Cvent and streaming service Zoom Video Communications announced an integration at the user conference Zoomtopia that will make Cvent's App supporting Zoom Meetings, Zoom Webinars and Zoom Events available in the Zoom App Marketplace. “In today’s event environment, an organization’s Total Event Program includes a blend of in-person, virtual, and hybrid events to maximize attendee engagement, reach and overall program impact” said Cvent Chief Marketing Officer Patrick Smith, in a press release. Last month, Cvent announced a partnership with American Express Meetings and Events to expand virtual payment capabilities for corporate event planners and executive administrators. The integrated payments solution simplifies the process of managing meeting and event payments and expenses.

Construction Kicks Off on $10M Grand Traverse Resort and Spa Renovation

Nov. 11, 2022—Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in northern Michigan this week announced that a $10 million renovation project has begun at the resort’s original six-story hotel with completion of the project slated for spring of 2023. The current project follows the $3 million renovation of the resort’s meeting space. Both projects are part of a four-year, $13 million renovation plan at the 550-room resort, according to a press release. “This project is exciting for everyone. Of course, our guests, but also our associates,” said General Manager Matthew Bryant. “This total renovation brings in new and updated amenities that both our guests and staff will benefit from.” The project includes upgrades to 242 guest rooms, including four hospitality suites, two junior suites and all corridors of the facility—providing a modern and refined refresh of the property’s interior—the most extensive renovation of the resort to date. “Our ownership has demonstrated over the past nearly 20 years that they are committed to maintaining and improving the Resort,” Bryant said. “We are looking forward to debuting our newly renovated Hotel in the spring.”

Florida Airports Close as Storm Nicole Approaches

Nov. 9, 2022 — Storms continue to impact travel as tropical storm Nicole heads towards Florida. In today's press release from Orlando International Airport (MCO), it was announced all commercial and private operations were to be cancelled as the storm heads towards the Florida coast. A total of 473 flights have been cancelled or affected by MCO ceasing to operate. CNN reported today Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) were planning to close at 2 P.M. and 4 P.M. respectively.

Marriott International Launches Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy

Nov. 9, 2022—As an answer to the continued blending of work and leisure travel and younger travelers seeking wider accommodation options, Marriott International has announced Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy. “Travelers planning vacations and long business trips today are seeking more choice in accommodations, and the introduction of Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy responds to those trends while offering developers a premium product backed by our trusted name and distribution platform,” said Stephanie Linnartz, president of Marriott. According to the company’s press release, the brand is building on its 26-year service-apartment brand Marriott Executive Apartments—currently in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America—extending its serviced-apartment portfolio in the United States and Canada with the new concept. Marriott plans to introduce the new concept in the “upper-upscale” and luxury segments, “with distinctly designed products that reflect the local neighborhood for independent travelers seeking more space and residential amenities.” Apartments by Marriott Bonvoy will feature a separate living and bedroom, full kitchen, and in-unit washer and dryer. The concept will be different from its extended-stay brands in that it will not provide hotel services such as food and beverage, meeting space and retail;

Travel Advisory in the Caribbean

Nov. 9, 2022 — U.S Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs issued a travel advisory in a press release yesterday to warn travelers about the heightening crime rates in Trinidad and Tobago. Terrorism and kidnapping are increasing, while other crimes such as murder, robbery, etc., continue to pose a threat to visitors. The press release suggests travelers headed to Trinidad and Tobago to enroll in The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and share your location with loved ones. The statement also urges travelers to the Caribbean to review the Country Security Report for Trinidad and Tobago or any other Caribbean islands. The reports keep travelers updated on the crime trends in that destination and help people to stay safe.

200th Hilton Hotel Opening in the Caribbean, Latin America

Nov. 7, 2022— Hilton announced the opening of Waldorf Astoria Cancun in a press release this morning. The 173-room resort is the second Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts location in Mexico. Hilton continues to expand in the Caribbean and Latin America and the region has been monumental in Hilton's international success. Boasting "accelerated growth" between the 2017 opening of its 100th hotel in the Caribbean/Latin American region, Hilton Rio de Janeiro Copacabana, and its 200th property Waldorf Astoria Cancun just a few years after, Hilton's portfolio now offers 36,000 rooms in these destinations. Juan Corvinos, senior vice president of development, architecture and construction, Caribbean and Latin America, says Hilton's continued growth in the region is a reflection of their commitment to their guest's needs and the popularity of these destinations.  “The opening of the elegant Waldorf Astoria Cancun and celebration of our 200^th hotel milestone in the Caribbean and Latin America is a testament to Hilton’s commitment in the region and the strength of our industry-leading brands to meet our guests’ ever-evolving needs in the destinations where they want to travel," says Corvinos.

Aramark, Anaheim Convention Center Appoints Chef Bernard Foster to Lead F&B

Nov. 7, 2022— Aramark, the exclusive caterer for Anaheim Convention Center (ACC), has appointed Chef Bernard Foster as Executive Chef. According to a press release from Visit Anaheim, Chef Foster will serve a global and fusion-forward menu for over one million event attendees annually at the largest convention center in California. Aramark and Chef Foster believe in a sustainable, seasonal and eco-conscious menu. “My goal is to provide clients an experience that is true to Anaheim where food is seasonal, sustainable, personable and memorable,” said Chef Foster. “We are implementing seasonal menus, providing offerings that reduce waste by incorporating a 'menu of the day' and including foods that cater to special dietary needs with plant-based options.” Jay Burress, President & CEO of Visit Anaheim, emphasizes the importance of food when planning meetings and events. “Food is such an important element of an event experience,” says Burress. “When event organizers are considering bringing their business to the ACC, being able to offer them an innovative F&B program that’s sustainable, local and seasonal makes Anaheim stand out from other destinations.”

Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and Greenview Have Partnered to Advance Sustainability

Nov. 7, 2022—Sustainable Hospitality Alliance and Greenview have signed an agreement to work together with the goal of progressing sustainability across the hospitality industry. This partnership will build on their collaboration in which they developed the Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative, which allows hotels to measure the carbon footprint of stays, meetings and event. The updated tool is now accessible to any hotel, regardless of size or carbon reporting experience. “If we are to progress towards net positive hospitality, it is essential that hotels, partners and clients have access to reliable tools to understand the impact of the industry,” Glenn Mandziuk, CEO of Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, said. “Having worked collaboratively with Greenview to develop pioneering tools for a number of years, this new agreement will ensure that any and all hotels around the world are able to measure their impact and help create alignment in order to drive significant progress.”

Cvent Announces Strong Earnings

Nov. 3, 2022—The event technology provider Cvent (CVT) announced today third-quarter 2022 revenue of $161.3 million, an increase of 20.3% from the same period in 2021 and 1.4% higher than the high end of guidance. “Momentum in the meetings and events industry continued in the third quarter of 2022, especially for in-person events. Organizations increasingly seek a comprehensive platform that can manage events of all formats and types, which helped drive our positive financial results in Q3,” said Reggie Aggarwal, CEO and founder of Cvent. “We believe the versatility of our platform across in-person, virtual and hybrid events paired with our long track record as a market leader will help us successfully navigate the current unique macroeconomic environment.” The report highlighted revenue from Event Cloud ($112.9 million for the quarter), an increase of 22.1% from the same quarter last year. Forbes Australia, Datadog, United Soccer Coaches and New Jersey Education Association signed on as clients during the quarter. Revenue from Hospitality Cloud product ($48.4 million) was up 16.5% from the same quarter the previous year. New clients included Visit Panama, HEI Hotels & Resorts, Visit California, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Boston Park Plaza. Also noted, a new partnership with American Express could provide a more seamless meetings & events payment experience for American Express Corporate Meeting Card and vPayment clients. Guidance for the fourth quarter of 2022 was set in the range of $169.3 million to $170.3 million, growth of 17.4% increase from the last quarter of 2021..

New Bass Pro Shop Resort Planned for Florida Keys

Nov. 3, 2022—Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris announced a new Valhalla Island sportfishing resort being planned in the Florida Keys, with construction slated for completion within the next two years. It will be the largest development of its kind in the Florida Keys and one of the most environmentally friendly. The 110-unit nature resort on 175 acres with a mile of beachfront property 15 minutes from Florida Keys/Marathon International Airport (MTH) is designed to be carbon-neutral, using ecologically sensitive design techniques that preserve 50 percent of green space throughout. It will be vehicle free and all surfaces will be permeable. Resort accommodations will include a collection of one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom cottages, a master lodge, general store, restaurants, a spa, swimming pools, fishing marina and spaces designed for people to gather and connect with nature.

Jamaica Launches New 'Come Back' Campaign

Nov. 3, 2022—Visit Jamaica launched a new advertising campaign inviting people to come back to their best selves. “In Jamaica, we’ve been recording arrivals that exceed pre-Covid levels, demonstrating that our travel sector is resilient and so are travelers,” said the Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica minister of tourism. “While everyone has been impacted by the pandemic, we want to let everyone know that Jamaica is good for the spirit. Therefore, it is the ideal destination to help people rediscover their own sense of adventure, natural curiosity, human connection and ultimately realize their most valuable human potential.” Created by the Jamaica Tourist Board’s advertising agency of record, Accenture Song, the campaign showcases Jamaica’s picturesque natural attractions and its friendly, welcoming people working together to help visitors live their best lives. The campaign was filmed utilizing over 50 local Jamaican crew members across locations in Jamaica spanning from Portland to St. Ann. Real couples and a real family were cast for the campaign so it would portray an authentic experience. Campaign music is also an original score created by Jamaican music producers.

Key West Airport Groundbreaking Launches $100-million Expansion

Nov. 2, 2022—A $100-million investment in south Florida's Key West International Airport (EYW) broke ground as the first step in a Concourse A terminal expansion that will take 2.5 years to complete. A new, second-level concourse will feature nearly 50,000 sq. ft. of space, including a new departure area, additional baggage areas, and upgraded checkpoint for up to four security lanes. Seven passenger boarding jet bridges will provide all-weather access linking the terminal and aircraft. The project is designed to improve the airport's level of service and operational flexibility while accommodating projected changes affecting the aviation industry, according to a press release.

Destinations International and Charlottesville Partner for EDI

Nov. 2, 2022— Destination International announced the launch of "Tourism for All" in a press release this morning. The pilot program is intended for CVBs to be advocates of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI), address the inequalities within the industry and to become leaders and educators in the community. Destinations International is partnering with Charlottesville Convention and Visitors Bureau, Virginia, (CVB). Courtney Cacatian, Executive Director of Charlottesville Albemarle, recognized the need for change and EDI progress in the tourism industry in 2019. Cacatian hopes the "Tourism for All" initiative in Charlottesville will inspire other cities and their tourism industry to make similar steps towards equality. “I’m so pleased to see our community’s work over the past couple of years be formalized into a usable model for other destinations,” said Cacatian. “Building on the success of our Destiny Award-winning Discover Black Cville and 'Tourism for All' effort, I look forward to seeing how broadening our scope of creating a welcoming space for everyone will bring positive impact to our community, residents, businesses and visitors."

NCBMP Selects Jason Dunn Sr. as New Executive Director

Nov. 1, 2022 —The non-profit organization National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) announced that Jason Dunn Sr. has been appointed as the new Executive Director. In a press release this morning, NCBMP Board Chairman Kevin Richardson officialized the appointment. "We're elated to announce Jason Dunn, Sr. as our national Executive Director, said Richardson. As the first black vice president of Visit Cincy and 18 years in tourism, Dunn has proved to be an asset to his city and to the industry as a whole. His experience, moral compass and vigor for the position are key values the NCBMP was looking for in their new executive director and Richardson is confident Dunn is a perfect fit as the non-profit heads into its 40th year anniversary. "Knowing the authenticity of Jason's leadership, the passion in which he builds his relationships, and his ability to move the moral consciousness of all around him, aligns with our Founders' vision and truly makes him the best person for the job," says Richardson. "We are now better positioned to compete, educate and highlight the impact of our business as we approach our 40th anniversary. We are excited about Jason leading the way."

Port of Oakland Aviation Marketing Manager Receives Legacy Award from Airports Council International

Nov. 1, 2022—Port of Oakland Aviation Marketing Manager John Albrecht has received the Ted Bushelman Legacy Award for Creativity and Excellence from Airports Council International North America (ACI-NA), as part of ACI-NA’s Marketing and Communications annual conference that took place in Vancouver, according to a press release. “On behalf of the Aviation Division of the Port of Oakland, I congratulate John for his excellent work in promoting Oakland International Airport over the past 14 years,” said Bryant L. Francis, Director of Aviation at the Port of Oakland. “Throughout the past decade and a half, John and his team have held steadfast on the mission to share with the world the myriad benefits of using OAK as a gateway and what it means to Fly the East Bay Way.” Albrecht received the lifetime achievement award during the Airport Marketing, Communications, and Customer Experience Awards ceremony that was held during the conference. Albrecht has held the position of Oakland Aviation Marketing Manager over the last 14 years.

Sensei Porcupine Creek Wellness Retreat Opens as First Standalone Property Under Brand 

Nov. 1, 2022—Sensei Porcupine Creek wellness retreat in Rancho Mirage, California on Tuesday opened its doors to guests offering a variety of luxury accommodations and boutique experience. The primary focus of the wellness retreat is to promote a healthier lifestyle through evidence-based education, according to a press release. “The launch of Sensei Porcupine Creek is a thrilling next step for the growth of our brand,” said COO of Sensei, Alexandra Walterspiel. “As our first property fully operated by Sensei, we are able to support a wider range of wellness intentions that allow us to bring an even more integrated approach to our guest experience. The 230-acre private estate, which is now open to the public for the first time, has impeccably designed grounds that immerse our guests in the healing properties the desert landscape is known for, and we couldn’t be more delighted to see our team bring our vision to life.” The new property boasts 22 luxury accommodations including a premier spa, fitness, tennis, golf and a private Sensei by Nobu restaurant to name a few.

IACC, MPI Announce Strategic Partnership

Oct. 31, 2022—IACC and MPI on Monday announced a strategic partnership with the goal of advancing the global events community through shared knowledge and boosting engagement among meeting and events professionals. IACC is a global association representing the top 1% of small to midsize conference and meeting venues while MPI is the largest global meetings and events industry association. The new partnership will allow IACC to engage with MPI’s extensive network of over 95,000 meeting and event professionals, spanning 70 chapters across the association and will also help to support all of IACC’s 400 members with improved resources and networking opportunities, according to a press release. “I am delighted to announce this new phase of an already long-standing global partnership between IACC and MPI. Through connected intelligence, we will complement each other’s crucial work in advancing the industry and deliver additional benefits for our respective members,” said IACC CEO, Mark Cooper. “We are proud of the work IACC has achieved and the opportunities we continue to deliver for our ever-growing membership. The alliance with MPI will allow us to build on that work and to support MPI’s membership and the wider industry as we drive further change and growth.”

Loews Hotels & Co Announces New CEO

Oct. 31, 2022—Loews Hotels & Co, a subsidiary of Loews Corporation (NYSE: L), on Monday announced that Alex Tisch will assume the role of CEO beginning Jan.1, 2023. Tisch will work closely with Jonathan Tisch, who will take on the role of Executive Chairman, while maintaining his position as a member of the Office of the President and Co-Chairman of the Board of Loews Corporation, according to a press release. “Loews Hotels & Co has a storied reputation in the travel and tourism industry, rooted in partnerships, operational excellence and best-in-class team members,” Tisch said. “My goal is to build on that reputation, leverage the owner/operator model, empower our world-class team members and create value for all stakeholders.” Tisch joined Loews in 2017 and took on the role as the company’s president in 2020. Tisch led the $2.5 billion re-defined growth strategy and expansion of Loews over the course of his five years with the company. He will continue to oversee the development and execution of the organization’s strategy and the management of capital and resource allocation, as well as the day-to-day operations of the company.

Grand Hyatt Shenzhou Peninsula Officially Opens Oceanfront Resort

Oct. 31, 2022—Hyatt Hotels Corporation [NYSE: H] on Sunday announced the grand opening of Grand Hyatt Shenzhou Peninsula, located in the tropical region of Wanning, Hainan, overlooking the South China Sea south of the resort and inner sea to the north, according to a press release.   “With the opening of Grand Hyatt Shenzhou Peninsula, we are excited to welcome guests to experience all the pleasures of a tropical resort in awe-inspiring surroundings, elevated by the luxurious comfort, theatrical dining experiences, exceptional amenities and welcoming service that the Grand Hyatt brand is known for,” said Terence Ng, general manager, Grand Hyatt Shenzhou Peninsula. The resort features over 27,900 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space including a 6,458-square-foot Grand Ballroom and 262 spacious guest rooms and suites.

U.S. Department of Transportation Announces $703 Million to Improve Port Infrastructure, National Supply Chains

Oct. 28, 2022—The U.S. Department of Transportation on Friday announced $703 million to fund 41 projects across 22 states and U.S. territories to improve port facilities through the Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program. The program aims to modernize coastal seaports, Great Lakes ports, and inland river ports to improve efficiency, increase port capacity, lower costs, create new job opportunities and lower port emissions, according to a news release. “So many of the goods we all count on, from appliances to furniture to clothes, move through our nation’s ports on their way to us,” said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. “Using funds from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this year we're awarding record levels of funding to improve our port infrastructure, strengthen our supply chains, and help cut costs for American families.” The funds were provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and additional Congressional appropriations.  President Biden issued an Executive Order on Supply Chains in February 2021 and created a Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force, co-chaired by Secretary Buttigieg in July 2021.

Spirit Airlines Announces ‘Enhanced, Wider Seats’ at APEX EXPO 2022

Oct. 27, 2022—Spirit Airlines [NYSE: SAVE] on Thursday unveiled the new Vector Light™️ seats and the Vector Premium™️ product for the large front seats during the APEX EXPO 2022 in Long Beach, Ca. The new larger seats are manufactured by HAECO Cabin Solutions and are a part of Spirit’s plan to provide travelers with a completely redesigned interior with roomier and ergonomic seats, a larger tray table, and additional pre-recline—features the airline first announced in 2019, according to a press release. The new and improved seats will be installed throughout each of Spirit’s new aircraft, with the first deliveries scheduled to arrive in late January 2023. "Our cabin refresh in 2019 was a significant enhancement in the guest experience, and these new seats are another great step forward in increasing value for our guests. We're adding new features while, at the same time, continuing to provide More go with our same ultra-low fares," said Lania Rittenhouse, Vice President of Guest Experience, Brand, and Communications for Spirit Airlines. A total of 33 A320 Family aircraft are expected to be delivered to the airline throughout 2023.

U.S. Travel Association Announces Theme for #GMID 2023 

Oct. 26, 2022—U.S. Travel Association announced that Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) 2023, scheduled to take place on March 30, will adopt the theme of #MeetingsMatter. The day of activations demonstrating and celebrating the power of gatherings for economic, scientific, medical and social good, will be observed all over the world in in-person and online activations. “Following years of canceled in-person meetings, the global meetings and events industry will come together on March 30, 2023, to celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day and showcase why #MeetingsMatter to attendees, organizations, communities, businesses and our economy,” read a statement from U.S. Travel. GMID 2022 on April 7 logged more than 40 million impressions worldwide and reached 30 countries throughout the world.

Boeing Shares Dip Following Q3 Loss of $3.3 Billion

Oct. 26, 2022—The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] on Wednesday reported a net loss of $3.3 billion for Q3 of 2022, or $5.49 per share, following a year-over-year increase of 4% to $16 billion, according to a press release. Boeing had an order backlog valued at $381 billion, including 4,300 commercial aircraft as of Sept. 30 of this year. We continue to make important strides in our turnaround and remain focused on our performance. We generated strong cash in the quarter and are on a solid path to achieving positive free cash flow for 2022. At the same time, revenue and earnings were significantly impacted by losses on our fixed-price defense development programs,” said Boeing President and Chief Executive Officer, Dave Calhoun. “We’re squarely focused on maturing these programs, mitigating risks and delivering for our customers and their important missions. We remain in a challenging environment and have more work ahead to drive stability, improve our performance and ensure we’re consistently delivering on our commitments. Despite the challenges, I'm proud of our team and the progress we’ve made to strengthen our company.” During the Q3, Boeing secured net orders for 167 737s, 27 767s, 18 777s, and 15 787s. Commercial Airplanes delivered 112 aircraft during the quarter, including 88 737s, nine 767s, six 777s, and nine 787 Dreamliners.

U.S. DOT Secretary Buttigieg Announces Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee

Oct. 26, 2022—Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation Pete Buttigieg approved the nominations of 21 new members, along with seven re-appointments, to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Commercial Space Transportation Advisory Committee (COMSTAC) to provide oversight of the U.S. commercial space transportation sector, according to a press release. The group of COMSTAC members consists of senior executives from the commercial space transportation industry, including manufacturers and customers from the satellite industry, state and local government officials, representatives from firms providing insurance, financial investment and legal service providers for commercial space activities and representatives from academia, space advocacy organizations and industry associations. The newly appointed members are:

• Joe DePete, President, Air Line Pilots Association
• Mat Dunn, Senior Director of Global Government Affairs, SpaceX
• John Elbon, Chief Operating Officer, United Launch Alliance
• Tony Frego, Vice President of Mission Management, Spaceflight, Inc.
• Matt Ganser, Vice President of Business Operations, Astra
• Moriba Jah, Associate Professor Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics, The University of Texas at Austin
• Therese Jones, Senior Director of Policy, Satellite Industry Association
• Dava Newman, Apollo Program Professor of Astronautics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Roosevelt (Ted) Mercer, CEO and Executive Director, Virginia Commercial Space Flight Authority
• Megan Mitchell, Vice President Government Relations, Blue Origin
• George Nield, President, Commercial Space Technologies/ Global Spaceport Alliance
• Dr. Michelle Parker, Vice President and Chief Engineer, Space and Launch Engineering, Boeing
• Melanie Preisser, Vice President of National Systems, York Space Systems
• Caryn Schenewerk, Vice President of Regulatory & Government Affairs, Relativity Space
• Amanda Simpson, Vice President for Research and Technology, Airbus
• Ganesh Sitaraman, New York Alumni Chancellor’s Chair in Law, Vanderbilt University
• Jay Skylus, Chief Executive and Chief Engineer of the Aether Transport System, Aevum
• Sita Sonty, Partner & Associate Director, Boston Consulting Group
• Janice Starzyk, Vice President of Government Operations, Virgin Orbit
• Melanie Stricklan, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Slingshot Aerospace
• Julie Zoller, Head of Global Regulatory Affairs, Project Kuiper, Amazon

The re-appointed members are:

• Edward Bolton, SGE, Former FAA Associate Administrator
• Karina Drees, President, Commercial Spaceflight Federation / COMSTAC Chair
• Mike French, Vice President Space Systems, Aerospace Industries Association / COMSTAC Vice-Chair
• Dale Ketcham, Vice President, Government & External Relations, Space Florida
• Kate Kronmiller, Vice President of Government Relations, Jacobs
• Mike Moses, President of Space Missions and Safety, Virgin Galactic
• Ann Zulkosky, Vice President, Commercial Civil Space, Lockheed Martin

Service Worker Economic Stabilization Act Expected to Boost Tourism and Hospitality Industries

Oct. 25, 2022—Members of the House Ways and Means Committee, U.S. Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) on Tuesday introduced the bipartisan Service Worker Economic Stabilization Act in an effort to boost the recovery of the tourism and hospitality industries, following state-mandated closures, skyrocketing inflation and high costs, according to a press release. “State-mandated closures, inflation, and rising costs have wreaked havoc on communities and small businesses throughout Illinois, especially for our hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors,” said Rep. LaHood. “This bipartisan bill will provide support to affected small businesses and workers, giving them more certainty and helping them accelerate recovery. I will continue to work to reduce the impact of inflation and high costs on small businesses and families in Illinois." It was reported that the tourism and hospitality industries suffered the highest number of job losses during the pandemic. The newly induced act would reinstate the 50% Entertainment Business Expense Deduction, while also extending 100% deduction for business meals, which will be reduced back to 50% at the end of 2022 through the end of 2024. The Service Worker Economic Stabilization Act will assist small businesses in recovering from the economic impact of the pandemic closures while investing in workers throughout the U.S. “This critical bill will support small businesses and workers in America’s restaurants, theaters, arts and entertainment venues by removing tax penalties that add to the challenges already plaguing the industry, such as our ongoing workforce challenges,” said Tori Emerson Barnes, U.S. Travel Association Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Policy. “It will relieve pressure on business travel budgets and directly benefit still-recovering travel workers, particularly food and entertainment service workers, who would see a projected increase in household income of $62 billion over the next two years.”

Visit Aurora Receives $400k Grant to Boost Tourism Recovery

Oct. 25, 2022—The Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) has provided Visit Aurora with a $400,000 grant to boost the economic recovery of Aurora through the Tourism Recovery Marketing Grant. The one-time grant was offered by the CTO, which was funded through an EDA American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation State Grant and includes seven recipients to support the recovery of the tourism industry in Colorado, according to a press release. “We are thrilled at the opportunity this grant provides to further our mission to amplify Aurora as a premiere destination for business events and leisure. As we emerge from challenging times, proactive investment in our Destination Marketing Organizations uplifts our entire state. Visit Aurora thanks the Colorado Tourism Office for their foresight and partnership. We are determined to fulfill our mission to propel Aurora to the benefit of its residents and Colorado as a whole,” said Bruce Dalton, CEO and president of Visit Aurora. The grant money includes $1.8 million in competitive funding provided by the CTO—the largest amount awarded by the CTO through the grant program, more than double the previous record of $750,000 provided last year. The tourism recovery marketing campaign is focused on attracting meeting planners and c-suite executives from association, corporate, government, contract, and SMERF groups to host events at Aurora venues.

Cronut Creator Celebrates Grand Opening of New Bakery at Caesars Palace

Oct. 25, 2022—Dominique Ansel Las Vegas at Caesars Palace celebrated its grand opening this week with a new bakery lead by James Beard Award-winning pastry chef Dominique Ansel and will serve a wide variety of decadent deserts, including Ansel’s famous creation the Cronut, according to a press release. "Chef Dominique Ansel is one of the most esteemed pastry chefs in the world," said Caesars Entertainment Regional President Sean McBurney. "The opening of his bakery has been a long time coming. His creations are the perfect addition to our extraordinary culinary offerings at Caesars Palace." The new bakery officially opened its doors on Oct. 21, with the occasion commemorated by a special giveaway for the first 100 guests, a toast with the chef’s signature cookie shot, and were joined by the Caesars Palace Royal Court procession. "I’m so thrilled to finally bring Dominique Ansel Las Vegas to life and have a home here at Caesars Palace,” Chef Dominique Ansel said. “We’ve been so honored and humbled to welcome guests from all around the world. For each of our shops, we strive to make each menu unique, and we hope our ‘Lucky 7’ pastry collection will bring some good fortune to everyone here. I can’t wait to share what we have planned for our future menu creations.”

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts Searches for Chief Eats Officer

Oct. 25, 2022—A global search has been launched by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts to find a Chief Eats Officer (“CEO”) to travel the world and report back on the cuisine culture of destinations around the world. This dream job would be able to travel the world and experience the best of international cuisine—not to mention, a pretty handsome monetary incentive. The press release from Wyndham offers the right candidate for the position $10,000 for their global adventure and a $150 daily travel stipend. Stephanie Kendrick, VP of Operations for Ramada by Wyndham, emphasizes the amazing opportunity the future CEO will experience. “Our lucky CEO will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in the best Ramada and its many destinations it has to offer, all while bringing along a global audience to share in every moment of their life-enriching adventure.”

Visit Lauderdale Launches New ‘Everyone Under the Sun’ Brand Campaign

Oct. 24, 2022—The official destination marketing organization (DMO) for the Greater Fort Lauderdale area in South Florida on Monday launched its new brand marketing campaign, “Everyone Under the Sun,” highlighting the destination’s commitment to inclusion and diversity. The new campaign features ads with locals with disabilities, those who are members of the LGBTQ+ community, people of different age ranges and community members from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds, according to a press release. “This campaign goes to the heart of what makes our community great – the people and our diverse offerings. We now have a strong campaign that truly reflects who we are and shows how special Greater Fort Lauderdale is in every bold, beautiful, and surprising way,” said Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale. “We are graciously welcoming everyone, and I mean everyone, to come join us and experience our tropical paradise rich with culture, flavor and unique experiences. Our diversity is our strength, and we are proudly telling this story to the world.” The launch of the campaign took three years due to the pandemic, including conceptualization and deployment, bringing the evolution of the destination’s brand full circle with the rebranding of the DMO with a new tagline, which switched from "Hello Sunny" in 2021.

Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority Breaks Ground on Ticketing Hall Expansion Project 

Oct. 24, 2022—The Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA) in mid-October broke ground on the ticketing hall expansion project, expected to be complete by 2024. Airport officials were joined by U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, U.S. Congressman Mark Amodei, Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve, along with other local officials, marking the beginning of the MoreRNO construction program slated to take place over the next few years, according to a press release. The expansion project will bring upgrades to the lighting and technology of the ticketing hall and will also provide travelers with additional space. The $500 million plan includes adding two new concourses and 28 new gates to the airport. A portion of the project’s funding was provided by Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). “This is more than a great day for our airport, it’s a transformational time for our region,” said Adam Kramer, RTAA Board Chairman. “The gateway to Reno-Tahoe is being re-imagined and rebuilt for the next century. We are making the first and last impression on travelers better than it’s ever been before.”

Florida Receives $50 Million in 'Quick Release' Funds to Offset Repair Costs

Oct. 21, 2022—The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on Friday announced the allocation of $50 million in “quick release” emergency relief funds to Florida’s Department of Transportation to offset the cost of repairs caused by Hurricane Ian earlier this month, according to a press release. “Today we’re making available $50 million in emergency funds to help Florida repair roads and bridges after the devastation of Hurricane Ian,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “This important step is only part of a larger federal commitment: as President Biden said, we will be with the people of Florida for as long as it takes to recover and rebuild stronger.” The emergency relief funds will be used as a down payment to repair roadways, causeways, intersections, and bridges throughout numerous regions in the state that were destroyed or washed out following flooding caused by the category 4 hurricane. “The Federal Highway Administration is working closely with the Florida Department of Transportation to repair the damage caused by Hurricane Ian in Florida,” said Acting Federal Highway Administrator Stephanie Pollack. “The quick release funding we are providing will help get those repairs done as soon as possible and better prepare this area for future storms in Florida.”

Society for Incentive Travel Excellence Announces New CEO

Oct. 20, 2022—The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) on Thursday announced the appointment of Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, as the association’s new CEO, taking over for Interim Executive Director Rebecca Wright, CIS, CITP, according to a press release. Gregg’s appointment as SITE’s new CEO follows an extensive global executive search and her former position as Chief Revenue Officer with Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and her ongoing career in the business events industry. “We’re thrilled to announce Annette Gregg as our new CEO knowing that the depth of her experience, the strength of her relationships, and the clarity of her vision will help SITE navigate the road ahead and realize its vision to build and bridge cultures through the transformative power of incentive travel & motivational experiences,” said SITE President Kevin Edmunds, CIS, CITP.

Visit SLO CAL Awarded Bid to Host The California Luxury Forum

Oct. 20, 2022—Visit SLO CAL, the non-profit countywide destination marketing and management organization for San Luis Obispo County, CA, has been awarded the bid to host The California Luxury Forum, according to a press release issued Thursday. The sixth edition of the forum is scheduled for Oct. 23-26 and will take place throughout SLO CAL. The forum is made possible through a partnership with Connections Luxury and Visit California. “I’m excited to take this exceptional program to California’s incredible Central Coast to really show the breadth of what California has to offer,” said Caroline Beteta, President and CEO of Visit California. “Visit California is extremely proud of the state’s partnership with Connections, which is a platform unlike anything else in the world. We’re looking forward to welcoming a critical industry segment to SLO CAL this fall.” Hosting the forum will allow SLO CAL to showcase the county’s finest travel products to 30 pre-selected luxury buyers and include hotels, venues and experience providers and other suppliers. “Luxury travel remains an important market for SLO CAL,” said Chuck Davison, President and CEO of Visit SLO CAL. “Hosting the California Luxury Forum allows Visit SLO CAL to showcase our destination and connect with key travel buyers from regional markets across the globe. This is a first of its kind opportunity to share SLO CAL partner assets and world-class experiences with the luxury community and we are proud to be bringing this business to SLO CAL.”

Event Tech Live Goes Multilingual with Silent Seminars/Interprefy Partnership

Oct. 19, 2022— ETL London 2022 will be increasing their interpretation efforts through their Seminar Audio Partner, Silent Seminars, and its partnership with Interprefy. ETL's press release this morning explaining how the online platform of Interprefy will be boosting the multilingual accessibility to the wireless headsets provided by Silent Seminars. The package will offer English and Spanish interpretation services at Event Tech Live and more interpretation services in upcoming events. Mark Breakspear, AV Alliance Manager at Interprefy, believes the partnership with Silent Seminars will be mutually beneficial. "Our partnership with Silent Seminars demonstrates how effective the cohesion of two market-leading technologies can be," says Breakspear. "Incorporating simultaneous interpretation into their scope of services provides a new business channel for Silent Seminars whilst Interprefy benefits from the on-site integration with their headsets." Read more about Event Tech Live at ExCel London on November 16 and 17 here.

Marriott International to Acquire City Express Brand

Oct. 19, 2022—Marriott International reached an agreement today with Hoteles City Express, S.A.B. de C.V. to acquire its City Express portfolio for $100 million. This entry into the "affordable midscale" hospitality segment makes it Marriott’s 31st brand. The City Express portfolio is made up of 152 hotels across 75 cities in Mexico and three countries in Latin America, including properties City Express, City Express Plus, City Express Suites, City Express Junior and City Centro, which Marriott expects to update with its signature, “by Marriott.” The acquisition also grants Marriott the franchise rights to five under-construction projects by Hoteles City Express. Marriott expects the transaction to be completed by the end of 2022 and the first half of 2023.

Cvent, AMEX Expand Virtual Payment Capabilities

Oct. 19, 2022—Cvent Event Marketing and Management Platform and American Express on Wednesday introduced enhanced virtual payment capabilities to provide a seamless payment experience for meetings and events (M&E) for American Express Corporate Meeting Card and vPayment clients, according to a press release. “As large companies increasingly look to bring people back together for client events or internal gatherings, they want more simplification, efficiency and automation, and managing their budgets has become more important,” said Dean Henry, Executive Vice President, Global Business Financing, Payments & Digital Experiences at American Express. “That’s why we partnered with Cvent to deliver an enhanced virtual payment and automation solution that helps provide a seamless user experience and better serves our clients’ needs.” The enhanced payment features include:

• A streamlined onboarding process with a step-by-step escalation process and additional support.
• Improved invoice processing with the tool, American Express @ Work Reconciliation®, available 24/7 to simplify M&E expense allocation.
• Increased payment options using vPayment, an AMEX payment solution, that assigns a single-use account number to each transaction to increase billing efficiency.
• Providing greater budget visibility by incorporating an automated reconciliation process with additional audit controls.

Buttigieg says DOT may 'Take a Look' at EU Regulations for US Airlines

Oct. 18, 2022—In a streamed, “no surprises here” pre-recorded conversation on “The Future of Aviation” sponsored by General Electric with The Washington Post today, Pete Buttigieg, transportation secretary said that after a summer of chaos, the DOT’s response was three-fold: enforcement (making sure airlines issue refunds and clarifying rules around that) improving rules themselves and improving tools of transparency. He also said in response to a question about EU regulations and passenger rights being more robust than their US counterparts that the DOT was “taking a look” at those regulations to see if they could be incorporated into the US model. When asked about the “why” of the airline summer chaos, Buttigieg pointed to lowered staffing levels and said that was why he had asked airlines to trim and thin out schedules. He pointed out that Florida’s current flight levels have been higher than they were prior to Covid.

DC’s Waterfront Neighborhood Celebrates 2 Milestones, Phase 2 of The Wharf Complete

Oct. 14, 2022—The 1.5 million-square-foot Phase 2 of The Wharf at DC’s waterfront neighborhood was completed this week while also celebrating the five-year anniversary of The Wharf’s grand opening in Oct. 2017. The completed development extends from the Municipal Fish Market to Fort McNair, spanning over 3.5 million sq. ft., according to a press release. The Wharf now includes four hotels, including DC's first Pendry hotel, a myriad of rooftops, piers, promenades and green spaces with stunning views of the water and DC. Retail space at The Wharf is 94% leased with restaurants and shops expected to start opening in the fall. In addition, The Wharf is now home to three live music venues and more than 85 dining and shopping concepts. The development was made possible through a partnership with Hoffman-Madison Waterfront (HMW). "Five years ago today, we celebrated the opening of The Wharf and I knew then that this neighborhood was going to be unlike any other. As someone who lives and works at The Wharf, I continue to be in awe every day of this vibrant waterfront community and the magnetic energy that draws people here from across the region, country and the world," Monty Hoffman, Founder and Chairman of Hoffman & Associates said. "Bringing the vision for The Wharf to life was only possible because of our longstanding partnership with the District of Columbia and all the dedicated people who believed in what this waterfront could become. The Wharf is for everybody. It's a place where people connect with each other—to live, to work, to dine, and to celebrate. The waterfront, food, and music may be the catalysts, but it's the millions of visitors who create their own authentic experience. And today, we celebrate the opening of The Wharf's final phase and making DC a true waterfront city."

American Airlines Strives for Zero GHG Emissions by 2050

Oct. 14, 2022— American Airlines announced their investment in Universal Hydrogen Co. in a press release on Monday. This will be the second investment the airline has made towards the development of hydrogen-electric propulsion technologies. Derek Kerr, American’s Chief Financial Officer, is optimistic about green hydrogen innovating a zero-emission future for aviation. “This technology has the potential to be a game-changer on the industry’s path to zero-emission flight," says Kerr. "As the world’s largest airline, American has a responsibility to exercise leadership in making aviation sustainable."

WTTC and Sustainable Hospitality Alliance Partner to Further Net-positive Hospitality

Oct. 13, 2022—World Travel Tourism Council and Sustainable Hospitality Alliance have signed an agreement solidifying their intent to improve the environmental and social impact of the hospitality industry. The two organizations have pledged to promote a more sustainable future for the industry, through cooperating on research projects for a greater understanding of the latest in sustainability. They also aim to create new commissions and advisory bodies, tackle issues such as youth employability, human trafficking and climate change, and more.

Destination Booking Agreements: What You Need to Know

Oct. 12, 2022—A clear agreement outlining every expectation for all parties involved is essential to having a successful meeting or convention. A Destination Booking Agreement (DBA) outlines all responsibilities and liabilities to benefit both the CVB/Destination organization as well as the event strategist. A DBA outlines financial commitments, defines timelines, eliminates confusion and provides security for future year agreements. Operations can run more smoothly and partnerships between CVBs, event centers and meeting professionals can grow stronger. Read more here.

United Announces New Transatlantic Flights in Summer 2023

Oct. 12, 2022— United announced they will be adding brand new international flight routes and increasing nonstop international service by summer, 2023. A press release from United claims the airline will operate the most transatlantic flights than any other American airline. European destinations such as Malaga, Spain, Stockholm, Sweden and Dubai, UAE are among the new direct routes added in the upcoming summer. "Next summer United is offering the best of both worlds: we're making it easier for our customers to visit the most popular cities in Europe, but we're also expanding our reach to give travelers access to new places they haven't yet experienced," said Patrick Quayle, senior vice president of global network planning and alliances at United. "We expect another busy summer for international travel and are proud to build on our industry-leading global network to offer our customers the widest range of destinations and most convenient travel options."

New Vice President of Sales for Caesars Entertainment Announced

Oct. 11, 2022—Caesars Entertainment Inc. announced Kelly Gleeson Smith has been promoted to the Vice President of Sales, Meetings and Events. The press release yesterday acknowledged Smith's outstanding professional performance and expressed Caesars Entertainment's confidence in Smith to strategize global sales and lead a team of more than 120 sales executives. Smith started with Caesars Entertainment in 2017 and quickly rose through the ranks. Michael Massari, Chief Sales Officer at Caesars Entertainment, has no doubt Smith will be an asset to the enterprise in her new role. "Kelly's career with Caesar's Entertainment has been exceptional, and we could not have chosen a better candidate for this position," says Massari. "I am certain that our business will continue to flourish under her leadership."

FAA Provides $16 Million in Grants to Pursue Aviation Climate Goals

Oct. 7, 2022—The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) this week announced that $16 million in grant funding will be allocated to 14 universities across the U.S. to conduct research on how to reduce aviation emissions and noise caused by air travel, according to a press release. “The awards we are making today will fund research at universities across the country for a more sustainable American aviation system,” U.S. Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg said. The participating university teams are part of the FAA’s Air Transportation Center of Excellence for Alternative Jet Fuels and Environment program, known as the Aviation Sustainability Center. The grant money was split between a total of 43 university research teams with the goal of finding solutions to jet fuel supply chains, electrification, noise reduction, noise exposure, hydrogen propulsion, engine technology, supersonic operations, and environmental measurement.

Alaska Receives $9 Million in Relief Funding to Repair Damaged Roadways, Bridges

Oct. 6, 2022—The U.S Department of Transportation on Thursday announced $9 million in “quick release” emergency relief funding will be allocated to Alaska to repair roadways and bridges damaged in the wake of Typhoon Merbok that struck western Alaska last month causing damage through hurricane-force winds, higher than normal tidal ranges, and massive storm surges of up to 10 feet above mean high water, according to a press release. “We are announcing emergency funding today to help the people of Western Alaska reopen vital roads, speed up emergency repairs before the winter season, and ultimately recover from the damage caused by Typhoon Merbok,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “The Federal Highway Administration is working closely with Alaska to repair the damage caused by Typhoon Merbok in Western Alaska,” said acting Federal Highway Administrator Stephanie Pollack. “The quick release funding we are providing will help get those repairs done as soon as possible and better prepare this area for future storms and floods.”

Ireland Strives Towards Sustainable Travel

Oct. 5, 2022— Ireland is embracing sustainable travel. According to a press release from Department of Transport, transportation projects will be reallocating the country's road space to accommodate healthier and greener travel options such as public transportation, biking and walking. While Ireland's current transportation infrastructure was designed for car travel, Department of Transport announced today it will be making changes towards sustainability. Eamon Ryan, Minister for Transport, said he would be releasing the results of this past summer’s “Pathfinder Projects” over the next few weeks. The research conducted by Department of Transport assessed Ireland's public transport and active travel project priorities. Minister Ryan emphasized the importance of these results when implementing “highly transformative measures" in travel and transport for a more sustainable system. “These projects will be delivered in the next two to three years and will begin to demonstrate practically, by people using them, that we can use our road space differently, we can re-imagine our towns and cities, we can begin to shift our focus from the car to other more sustainable transport systems," said Minister Ryan.

Uzbekistan’s Cotton Industry Receives $2 Million to Prevent Forced, Child Labor

Oct. 5, 2022—The U.S. Department of Labor on Wednesday announced the allocation of a $2 million grant to Uzbekistan with the goal of curbing forced labor and child labor in the county’s cotton industry through a cooperative agreement to assist the country in adhering to international labor standards. The funding was administered by the Bureau of Internal Labor Affairs, according to a press release. “Uzbekistan’s commitment to labor standards compliance has renewed international interest in sourcing and investing in cotton grown there,” Deputy Undersecretary for International Affairs Thea Lee said. “To take advantage of these economic growth opportunities, employers must provide decent working conditions and respect the voices and rights of workers. At the same time, workers will need tools to advocate for good labor practices and participate in labor standards compliance systems.” The grant will support a project including the Solidarity Center and its co-implementer, the Center for International Private Enterprise, to strengthen the voice of workers and assist local cotton businesses to enact processes for effective labor compliance standards. A full list of goods produced globally using forced or child labor can be viewed here.

Rest periods Between Shifts Extended for Flight Attendants: FAA 

Oct. 4, 2022—The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Tuesday announced a final rule that will extend the rest period between shifts for flight attendants to 10 consecutive hours, up from the previous requirement of nine hours. The ruling on the duration of rest periods also fulfills the requirement of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, which directs the FAA to increase the rest period of flight attendants with scheduled duty lasting 14 hours or less while eliminating the provision that allows rest periods to be reduced under certain circumstances, according to a press release. “Flight attendants, like all essential transportation workers, work hard every day to keep the traveling public safe, and we owe them our full support,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “This new rule will make it easier for flight attendants to do their jobs, which in turn will keep all of us safe in the air.” The final rule will go into effect 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. The FAA held two public feedback periods in 2019 and 2021, spanning more than 105 days, and reviewed over 1,000 comments from flight attendants, airlines and the public.

U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism to Announce Hotel Reopening, Post-Pandemic Return of Cruise Industry

Oct. 3, 2022—The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) Department of Tourism will announce the reopening of two Frenchman's Reef properties in St. Thomas following a $350 million renovation and news regarding the post-pandemic return of its cruise industry during the 40^th annual Caribbean Travel Marketplace scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 4 in San Juan Puerto Rico. The marketplace is produced by the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) and is the largest marketing event for Caribbean tourism suppliers and wholesalers. The USVI Charter Yacht Show in November and the popular month-long Crucian Christmas Festival in St. Croix will also be discussed during the annual marketplace, according to a press release. “This CHTA event is an ideal forum for the USVI Department of Tourism to announce to the media, to our partners and to industry peers, the progress we have made after the severe economic impact that the pandemic had on our tourism industry and throughout the Caribbean these past two and a half years,” said Joseph Boschulte, USVI Commissioner of Tourism. “We are especially excited to share the news of the reopening of two rebuilt and rebranded properties at Frenchmen’s Reef, restoring our accommodation capacity in St. Thomas to the levels prior to the devastating destruction caused by hurricanes Irma and Maria five years ago.”

AHLA Survey Reveals Improvement in Ongoing Hotel Staffing Shortage

Oct. 3, 2022—The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) on Monday reported widespread staffing shortages continuing at hotels following a survey of 200 hoteliers conducted Sept. 12-19, 2022. Responses to the “Front Desk Feedback” survey showed 87% of respondents reported staffing issues (36% reported severe staffing shortages) with housekeeping being the most severely impacted area of hotel service with 43% ranking it as their biggest staffing hurdle. However, the latest survey shows some improvement from May when 97% of survey respondents reported staffing problems and 49% reported severe issues, according to a press release. “Today’s tight labor market is creating unprecedented career opportunities for current and prospective hotel employees, and AHLA and the AHLA Foundation are working tirelessly to spread the word. With hotel wages, benefits, flexibility and upward mobility at historic levels, there has never been a better time to work at a hotel than the present,” AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers said. In response to the ongoing staffing issues, the AHLA Foundation launched its “Place to Stay” advertising campaign across 14 cities, including Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York, Orlando, Phoenix, San Diego, and Tampa to promote the over 200 career paths in the hospitality industry through the site thehotelindustry.com.

Federal Government vs. Northeast Alliance Trial Continues

Oct. 3, 2022—The trial of the federal government vs. American Airlines—JetBlue Northeast Alliance continues this week. The government is attempting to dismantle the partnership between American Airlines and JetBlue under anti-trust laws due to the Northeast Alliance blocking competition in the city by pulling their resources together and operating as one airline. Robert Isom, Chief Executive of American Airlines Group, acknowledges the partnership with JetBlue yet denies violating any antitrust laws. Isom says the two airlines do not act as one in Boston nor anywhere in the Northeast. The latest update in the trial comes from MSN News as Isom testified. “We have our own gate. We have our own planes,” said Isom in the Boston trial. “We have our own services that make us distinct.”

Delta, LATAM Partnership Approved by U.S. Dept. of Transportation

Oct. 3, 2022—The U.S. Department of Transportation approved a joint venture between Delta Airlines and LATAM that will provide travelers access to over 300 destinations between the U.S./Canada and South America, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay. The new partnership is expected to expand cooperation in these markets through additional route offerings, improved connections and strengthening existing reciprocal loyalty benefits, according to a press release. “Delta’s partnership with LATAM will help grow the market between North and South America and provide significant and much-needed benefits for customers, and we applaud the DOT for this final approval,” Ed Bastian, Delta’s chief executive officer said. “Now, we’ll get to work with LATAM to transform the travel experience for our collective customers and create new opportunities for our employees.” The airlines first announced plans to form the partnership throughout the Americas in 2019 with the goal of significantly expanding travel options across North and South America, while offering an industry-leading customer experience.

West Virginia International Yeager Airport Projects Under Environmental Review: FAA

Sept. 30, 2022—The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Friday announced the environmental review of projects slated for the West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW), including airfield, safety and terminal improvements. A draft environmental review will be prepared by the FAA, which will also conduct several public meetings on the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the projects. The upgrades were proposed by the Central West Virginia Regional Airport Authority (CWVRAA), according to a press release. The proposed projects include upgrades to the terminal facilities, shift and extension of Runway 5-23 and the parallel taxiway to improve safety and meet FAA standards with the goal of implementing the necessary upgrades to meet the forecast of heightened aviation demand at the airport. The EIS will be prepared to address the potential environmental impact of the projects.

Top DOT Officials Celebrate Groundbreaking of New Seaway Visitor Center in Massena, N.Y.

Sept. 30, 2022—Top officials from The U.S. Department of Transportation this week celebrated the groundbreaking of the new visitor center at the U.S. Eisenhower Lock in Massena, N.Y. carried out by the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (GLS). The new 75,000-sqaure-foot center will welcome visitors to the Seaway and usher in a world-class tourist attraction in the region, according to a press release. “Since its creation over half a century ago, the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway has become a model of international cooperation, an economic gateway to America, and an indispensable part of our national economy,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “From grain to steel, the Seaway delivers American goods to the world, and brings resources to our shores. This new visitor center will to build understanding of the Seaway’s vital role in our economy and our history.” The new center will feature an observation deck where visitors can view the process of commercial vessels being elevated 40 feet in the air through transit of the lock. In addition, the center will also house memorabilia and informational displays. Hundreds of ships from all over the world transport roughly 35 million metric tons of cargo through the St. Lawrence Seaway every year.

Florida Keys Reopened

Sept. 30, 2022—Key West International Airport reopened Thursday morning after tropical storm-force winds and storm surge from Hurricane Ian impacted the island chain Tuesday and Wednesday. The Florida Keys Overseas Highway, including all 42 bridges, is open, said Monroe County Sheriff Rick Ramsay. Almost all Keys lodging establishments escaped significant storm impact and are open. The National Hurricane Center discontinued a tropical storm warning as well as storm surge warnings and watches for the Keys late Wednesday afternoon.

Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen Opens in Caesars Atlantic City

Sept. 29, 2022—Chef Gordon Ramsay's Hell's Kitchen restaurant is now open in Caesars Atlantic City according to the hotel's press release. For the first time in the history of Chef Ramsay’s hit competitive cooking show, the restaurant will be based on the East Coast's famous Jersey Shore. Hell’s Kitchen in Caesars Atlantic City will be the city’s third Ramsay restaurant. The celebrity chef has had success in Atlantic City with Gordon Ramsay Steak and Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill. We hope to see the Hell's Kitchen television show and its restaurant at Caesars Atlantic City have the same success! Read more about Atlantic City's upgrades here.

Puerto Rico to Receive $8 Million in ‘Quick Release’ Emergency Relief Funding to Repair Flood-Damaged Roadways

Sept. 28, 2022—The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) on Wednesday immediately authorized $8 million in “quick release” funds for use by Puerto Rico to rebuild and repair roadways that were damaged by flooding and landslides caused by Hurricane Fiona, according to a press release. “Today’s announcement will help the people of Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, which has claimed lives and damaged infrastructure,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “These emergency funds are a down payment to help Puerto Rico clear debris and reopen as many roads and bridges as possible, so citizens and emergency personnel can get where they need to go safely.” Fiona caused historic flooding after making landfall in Puerto Rico on Sept. 18. due to heavy rainfall and wind. The flooding caused massive landslides damaging bridges and roads throughout the island. The damage caused by the hurricane has been estimated at more than $35 million. “The Federal Highway Administration is working closely with the Puerto Rico Highways and Transportation Authority to repair the damage caused to roads and bridges by flooding in multiple locations across the island,” Acting Federal Highway Administrator Stephanie Pollack said. “The quick release funding we are providing will help get those repairs started as soon as possible and better prepare this area for future flooding events.”

Hurricane Ian Shuts Down Commercial Flights in Orlando

Sept. 27, 2022—Orlando International Airport (MCO) issued a press release today announcing operations will be suspended as of 10:30 a.m. EST as Hurricane Ian is expected to hit Florida. After leaving Cuba this afternoon, the storm has gained momentum and is barreling towards South Florida with estimated wind speeds of 120 mph. MCO is alerting passengers to cancel/reschedule flights and other travel plans to remain safe. However, MCO won’t be closed completely. The airport will remain in operation for emergency/aid and relief flights. Passengers are not allowed to be inside the airport during the storm as it is not an authorized shelter. Track Hurricane Ian here.

Bally’s Finalizes Acquisition of Tropicana Las Vegas

Sept. 27, 2022—Bally’s Corporation has completed its acquisition of Tropicana Las Vegas with Gaming & Leisure Properties Inc. (GLPI) and Penn Entertainment Inc. (PENN), which was announced April 2021. Bally’s has purchased the non-land assets of Tropicana from GLPLI and Penn for $148 million. Bally’s will lease the land from GLPI for an initial 50-year term. Read more about Las Vegas here.

SFO Food Workers Continue Strike—Demand Higher Wages

Sept. 27, 2022—Fast food workers at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on Tuesday continued their open-ended strike, which began Monday, demanding higher pay amid skyrocketing menu prices offered at restaurants and other vendors at the airport, according to a press release. The duration of the strike “really depends on the employer,” says Ted Waechter of Unite Here 2, a labor union that represents more than 15,000 hospitality workers in San Francisco, San Mateo County, the East Bay and North Bay. “Our lines are strong and workers are clear that they’re not going back to work without a meaningful raise and affordable healthcare. So, we’ll be out on strike until the employers agree to those, we think, very modest demands.” The majority of food workers at SFO have reported making $17.05 an hour and say they have not received a raise in three years. Many have also reported having to take on multiple jobs to keep up with the high cost of living in the region. In addition, food workers at SFO have recently taken to social media to compare the cost of menu items compared to their hourly wages. "My pay for a whole hour of work is less than the price of just one meal. That is so unfair. I’m on strike because I want to quit my second job and have more time with my family," said Vivian Narvarte, who works at both Pie Five Pizza and Ladle & Leaf Restaurant at SFO.   The strike follows a vote held by airport food service workers in August with 99.7% voting to authorize a strike.

Caesars Entertainment Announces Caesars Virginia

Sept. 27, 2022—Caesars Entertainment this week announced Caesars Virginia—slated to open in 2024. The new $500 million resort will be built in Danville, Virginia, and will be home to 500 guest rooms and 40,000 sq. ft. of meeting and convention space. Event planners will also be able to take advantage of the 900 square-foot boardroom and outdoor terrace, perfect for providing attendees with a reception area and additional breakout space, according to press release. The new property will also have the potential to provide attendees with an all-inclusive experience with a 2,500-seat live entertainment venue featuring state-of-the-art technology, new restaurant and bar concepts, a world-class casino gaming floor, spa, pool and fitness center. “Caesars Virginia will be an economic driver for the region, both as a tourist and entertainment draw and through the more than a thousand good-paying jobs the resort will create,” Anthony Carano, President and Chief Operating Officer of Caesars Entertainment said. “The people of Danville have entrusted us to build a world-class resort, and we look forward to proving that trust was well founded with an incredible resort worthy of the iconic Caesars brand.”

New Extra Fee Disclosure Laws for Airlines

Sept. 26, 2022—President Joe Biden will propose new legislation this afternoon for airlines and travel search websites in response to hidden fees for unpredictable circumstances. After a travel-crazed summer due to pent-up travel demand, customers are unknowingly facing fees for losing luggage, changing or cancelling their flights and other unforeseen charges they may not have been aware they would be responsible for. President Biden and The Transportation Department will be announcing plans to ensure airlines fully inform potential customers on all possible travel fees on Monday afternoon, Sept. 26. Pete Buttigieg, Transportation Secretary, is confident the new protocol will relieve travel anxiety, according to a press release. “Airline passengers deserve to know the full, true cost of their flights before they buy a ticket,” says Buttigieg. “This new proposed rule would require airlines to be transparent with customers about the fees they charge, which will help travelers make informed decisions and save money.”

FAA Releases Latest Vertiport Design Standards to Support Advanced Air Mobility Aircraft

Sept. 26, 2022—The FAA on Monday released the latest set of design standards for vertiports as part of the main infrastructure that will support Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft at U.S. airports. The design standards will provide guidance and key information to airport owners, operators and infrastructure developers to support the use of the electrically-powered AAM aircraft that are designed for vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), according to a press release. “Our country is stepping into a new era of aviation. These vertiport design standards provide the foundation needed to begin safely building infrastructure in this new era,” Associate Administrator for Airports Shannetta Griffin, P.E. said. The new design standards include the following:

• Dimensions and design for vertiport touchdown and liftoff areas
• Lighting, markings and visual aids to identify vertiports
• Charging and electric infrastructure for charging equipment at vertiports
• Guidelines for adding vertiports to an existing airfield
• Standards for building vertiports on top of structures

Canada Ends Travel Requirements

Sept. 26th, 2022—As of October 1st, Canada will be ending travel requirements such as masking, proof of vaccination, the ArriveCAN app and mandatory testing and/or quarantine. Though the tourism industry has been doing well in Canada recently, the lift of the border restrictions is predicted to increase the volume of visitors even further. Porthole Cruise and Travel reported on the story as the news is particularly important for the cruise industry. Many cruise ships traveling to popular destinations such as Alaska and New England use Canadian ports to dock. John Padgett, President of Princess Cruises, says “Alaska and Canadian cruises are among the most desired vacation options in the world, and we look forward to welcoming everyone who’s waited the past three years for this market to fully open.”

Hurricane Ian Heads to Florida, Ramps Up Strength

Sept. 26, 2022—Hurricane Ian maintained its northwest course towards Florida as of 11 a.m. EDT on Monday as the storm continued picking up strength, hurling winds of up to 80 mph. Hurricane-force winds extended as far out as 25 miles from the storm’s center as forecasters warn that Ian will become a Category 4 hurricane, AccuWeather.com reports. "By Tuesday, Ian may be a dangerous major hurricane," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Adam Douty said. Tuesday is expected to bring the worst conditions, with gusts reaching speeds of up to 120-140 mph and a storm surge of over six feet in some areas. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Saturday declared a landfall state of emergency and later activated the National Guard on Sunday. DeSantis warned Florida residents to prepare for the storm's impact. Ian is currently categorized as Category 1 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. “The path of Tropical Storm Ian remains uncertain and could have impacts from the Keys to Northwest Florida. Floridians along the Gulf Coast should prepare now for the possibility of severe weather next week,” DeSantis tweeted. "A quick uptick in strengthening is expected early this week as Ian moves into the western Caribbean, where low wind shear and very warm water are in place. This will raise the likelihood of significant impacts in the western Caribbean, and eventually the United States," Douty said.

Amtrak Pledges Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2045

Sept. 23, 2022—Amtrak this week pledged to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its network by 2045 to curb the impact of climate change while continuing to provide passengers with service, according to a press release. Amtrak aims to meet this goal by taking the following actions:

• Improve energy efficiency by implementing renewable fuels and energy.
• Reducing the use of diesel fuel through innovations in zero-emission technologies.
• Achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030 through energy-efficient upgrades and renewable energy generation.

“Not only are trains convenient and comfortable, they are also one of the most sustainable modes of transportation,” Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner said. “With new equipment, modernized stations and net zero emissions, Amtrak can lead the drive toward sustainable transportation throughout the nation.” “We congratulate Amtrak for this ambitious commitment to further reduce its carbon footprint, cementing its place as a leader in the clean transportation revolution,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “As we continue working to implement President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we look forward to working with Amtrak to demonstrate the key role of passenger rail in fighting climate change.”

Next Round of Funding Opens for Airport Terminals Program

Sept. 23, 2022—The FAA announced the application process for the next round of funding to provide grants for airport terminal development projects in the U.S. has started and will remain open until Oct. 24, 2022, according to a press release. The funding, made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to address the aging infrastructure of airfields across the country and includes upgrades and repairs such as expanding terminals, improving energy efficiency, building new air traffic control towers, improving energy efficiency, increasing accessibility among other features. The current round of funding will match the first round at $1 billion. “Americans deserve modern airports that meet the needs of their families and growing passenger demand. Funded through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, today’s grants will improve airport terminals while also creating good jobs in communities across the country,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. The first round was allocated to 90 airports across the nation, with the distribution of the funds determined by airport size. Large hub airports will receive 55% of the total funding; medium hub airports will receive up to 15% of the total funding; and small hub airports will receive up to 20% of the total funding. In addition, 10% of the total funding will be awarded to smaller, non-primary, non-hub airports.

Hurricane Fiona Heads for Atlantic Canada

Sept. 22, 2022—After barreling through the Caribbean, Hurricane Fiona is now moving north towards Atlantic Canada. According to U.S. Consulate General Halifax, the Canadian Hurricane Centre is alerting residents of the possible flooding and rolling power outages that can occur as the storm hits Canada Friday night and Saturday morning, according to a press release. Hurricane Fiona is predicted to land in Nova Scotia and Cape Breton early Saturday morning before making its way to Lower Quebec Northshore and Southeastern Labrador the following day. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Canada have released a list of actions to take in preparation for the hurricane. Read more here.

PHL Life Sciences Appoints New Advisory Board Chair

Sept. 22, 2022—PHL Life Sciences, a business development division of the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), on Thursday announced the appointment of Patrick M. Oates, Ph.D. as the organization’s new Advisory Board Chair. PHL Life Sciences promotes Philadelphia as a leading hub and destination for the life sciences industry. Oates serves as senior vice president of business development and strategic planning for EMSCO Scientific Enterprise, Inc., and has a doctorate in physiology and molecular biology, according to a press release. EMSCO Scientific Enterprise, Inc. is a local, minority-owned distributor of laboratory supplies, equipment, chemicals and pharmaceutical excipients. Oates works to expand commercial growth through partnerships with pharmaceutical companies and other life science entities “Patrick will be an incredible resource and asset for PHL Life Sciences as we continue to connect industry associations and planners with our city's strong life sciences network for the most successful healthcare, medical and higher education meetings here in Philadelphia.” Bonnie Grant, executive director of PHL Life Sciences said. Events booked by PHL Life Sciences in 2019 resulted in a regional economic impact of $215 million.

Joint Office of Energy and Transportation Appoints Leader Gabe Klein

 Sept. 21, 2022—The U.S. Department of Energy and Transportation announced that former Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Transportation and Director of the Washington D.C. Department of Transportation, Gabe Klein, will be the lead on President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Klein will be leading the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation, an outfit created to service rural and disadvantaged communities, with vehicle electrification charging networks. The overall goal of the Joint Office is to upgrade national transportation systems and provide Americans with affordable electric options to cut down on fuel costs, according to a press release. While more metropolitan areas have long had options for electric vehicles and readily available charging stations, the Joint Office is ensuring the same options for electric energy systems will be available nationwide. U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm assures Klein is the man for the job. “Gabe has spent his career spurring innovation for sustainable transportation,” says Granholm. “We couldn’t be more excited to have him working for more electric cars and trucks on our roadways.”

American Airlines Confirms Employee Email Hacker Breach

Sept. 20, 2022—Although American Airlines is insistent to assure customers and employees that only a “very small number” of people were targets of email hackers and that no fraud has been reported, personal information was still compromised and caused both travelers and American Airlines employees alike to feel uneasy. Booking a flight requires an individual to provide date of birth, a driver’s license, passport information and even medical history—these are all details the hackers now have access to, per Associated Press. According to Associated Press, the hacking investigation began in July, yet American Airlines did not disclose its discovery of hacking until last week. The airline has ensured customers and employees that the accounts breached have been disabled and a team of cybersecurity professionals has been hired to investigate.

American Airlines Partners with American Red Cross to Provide Hurricane Fiona Relief

Sept. 20, 2022—With most of Puerto Rico out of power and almost 840,000 people without running water, Hurricane Fiona has proven to be an entity of destruction as it tears its way through the Caribbean. Hitting the Dominican Republic yesterday and Turks and Caicos earlier today, the storm has left the islands in desperate need of help. In alignment with the American Red Cross, American Airlines announced a new offer for their AAdvantage members that will contribute towards providing relief in the Caribbean and credit members with miles in return. The offer is available for American Airlines AAdvantage members and is available through October 15, 2022. For every dollar donated to the Red Cross with a minimum of $25, members will earn 10 miles. American Airlines is a member of the Annual Disaster Giving Program with the Red Cross and is urging patrons to donate and support American Red Cross efforts in Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and all of the Caribbean.

Partnership Connecting Small and Disadvantaged Businesses with Resources Announced During OSBDU Business Forum

Sept. 20, 2022—The US Department of Transportation (USDOT), Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization (OSDBU), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the US Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) on Tuesday announced a partnership with small and disadvantaged businesses that require resources to succeed. The partnership was announced during a business forum hosted at the USDOT headquarters and focused on helping improve access to capital and other resources to ensure all businesses will benefit from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. To date, USDOT is on track to hit the goal of allocating 20% of the agency's federal contracts to small and disadvantaged businesses, according to a press release. The business forum included several panels featuring business leaders and senior Biden-Harris Administration officials including US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, SBA Administrator Isabella Guzman, and US Department of Commerce for Minority Business Development Under Secretary Don R Cravins Jr. "Through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are making historic investments in our transportation infrastructure—and that represents major opportunity for historically excluded Americans and our nation's small businesses,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “These new initiatives with our partners at SBA and MBDA will help more small business owners secure federal contracts to modernize our country’s infrastructure for decades to come.”

AHLA Foundation Partners with U.S. Job Corps

Sept. 20, 2022—The American Hotel & Lodging Association Foundation (AHLAF) has partnered with the U.S. Department of Lab in an effort to pump new life into the hospitality workforce. The partnership’s initiatives have been designed to fill the 130,000 open jobs in hospitality with ready-to-work Job Corps students enrolled in hospitality training programs, giving them access to hotel jobs and AHLAF’s apprenticeship program. “We are proud to team up with Job Corps as a platinum partner to strengthen our retention and recruitment programs,” said Sarah Cozewith, vice president of workforce development at AHLAF. “With hundreds of thousands of open hotel positions, this is the perfect time for these students to enroll in the hotel industry. From training more than 1,400 apprentices to providing more than $1 million in academic scholarships annually, this trailblazing partnership builds on AHLAF’s ongoing efforts to craft an industry as diverse as the guests we serve.”

Qatar Airways Hosts Largest Post-Covid Meeting of Aviation Financial Leaders in Doha

Sept. 20, 2022—Qatar Airways will host the largest gathering of the aviation industry's financial leaders since before the start of the Covid pandemic in Doha, Qatar, from Sept. 19 to 22. The financial symposium follows the IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), hosted in Doha last June, which was the most attended AGM in the Middle East in history, according to a press release. The financial forecast appears promising as the aviation industry continues to immerge from the pandemic while government-imposed restrictions have been removed and demand for air travel ramps up. Industry losses are expected to fall from $180 billion during 2020-21 to $9.7 billion in 2022. “We are honored to be hosting the first in-person World Financial Symposium since 2019, especially during our milestone year, celebrating 25 years of operations. This vital symposium will bring together financial leaders from airlines and from our many supply chain partners to discuss and debate the path forward and the challenges to be overcome,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Bake. The sessions of the symposium will address:

• ESG and sustainable finance trends
• Achieving carbon net zero by 2050
• Financial risk management
• The road to airline retailing & customer centricity
• Fulfillment and settlement in a world of airline offers and orders
• The future of airline payments and payments as a value creator
• Understanding and preparing for OECD BEPS 2.0

Hurricane Fiona Tears Through the Caribbean  

Sept. 19, 2022—Hurricane Fiona hit Puerto Rico yesterday with winds up to almost 100 mph and an estimated 25 inches of rain. Although Puerto Rico has worked to build a stronger and more resilient infrastructure on the island as they recovered from the destruction caused by Hurricane Maria in 2017, CBS News reports the new bridge in the central city of Utuado crumbled instantly under the pressure from the storm. Hurricane Fiona left almost the entire island without power and nearly 840,000 without running water. Hurricane Fiona continues to move and gain momentum. After slowing down slightly as it hit the land mass of the Dominican Republic, the National Hurricane Center says the storm is headed towards the islands of Turks and Caicos with tropical winds as fierce as 140 mph. The storm is projected to avoid Florida but will intensify to Category 4 as it heads northwest towards Bermuda.

Panama Lifts Travel Restrictions

Sept. 19, 2022—Panama is an incredibly beautiful country with some of the most coveted resort experiences in the world—yet this was all shut down in 2020 as Covid swept the world. For obvious safety reasons, Panama stood strong in its strict restrictions regarding arriving travelers. However, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the restrictions set in place during the pandemic were to be lifted and normal tourism protocol would be reinstated, per Breaking Travel News. Previous to the lift on restrictions, travelers were mandated to prove vaccination status, undergo both pre-departure and post-arrival tests and even quarantine after arriving in Panama. With these restrictions now lifted, Panama tourism can return to its rightly earned reputation as one of the best hotel/resort destinations in the world.

DHS and TSA Appointing Personnel to Ensure Safety and Security

Sept. 19, 2022—The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a press release this morning announcing the appointment of 25 members to the Faith-Based Security Advisory Council who will aid the DHS and Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas in matters of security, equity and overall service to the public. The alliance between DHS and the Council is believed to improve communication and coordination in order to address any security threats. While the DHS is appointing new personnel, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator David Pekoske has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate to serve a second term. As President Biden’s nominee, both the government and the TSA have faith that Pekoske’s experience in security leadership is an asset to travel safety.

White House Announces Minority Enterprise Development Week

Sept. 19, 2022—President Joe Biden proclaimed Sept. 18 through 24 as Minority Enterprise Development Week from the White House—calling on all Americans to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions and achievements of minority business owners and enterprises, according to a press release. “Every day, America’s 9.2 million minority business enterprises deliver essential goods and services to their customers and help power the United States economy.  They develop cutting-edge technologies, provide social services to people in need, construct roads and bridges, operate restaurants and retail shops, and make vital contributions to all industries.  Minority business enterprises also provide proprietors and employees a sense of purpose, a source of dignity, and for some, a valuable asset to pass down through generations.  During Minority Enterprise Development Week, we celebrate the ingenuity and dedication of America’s minority entrepreneurs, and we recommit to helping all Americans access the resources they need to build thriving businesses and a fairer, more prosperous Nation,” the press release read. The Minority Business Development Agency was made permanent through funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is the only federal agency dedicated to connecting minority-owned businesses to "private lenders, exporters, and public- and private-sector buyers; and it directs the Department of Transportation to prioritize contracts to small, disadvantaged businesses.” President Biden also announced his administration has pledged to boost federal dollars allocated to minority-owned businesses by 2025, which is estimated to bring these businesses as much as $100 billion in new revenue over the span of this period.

Mental Health and Employment Working Group Launched During U.S. Conference of Mayors

Sept. 16, 2022—U.S. Department of Labor’s Assistant Secretary for Disability Employment Policy, Taryn Williams, applauded the launch of the Mental Health and Employment Working Group during the U.S. Conference of Mayors hosted in Miami on Friday, according to a press release. The goal of the working group is to identify policies, plans and practices to address and support workers’ mental health needs across the country. It's development was made possible through a collaboration between the department’s State Exchange on Employment and Disability and the Conference of Mayors. “When it comes to mental health, America’s workplaces have a critical role to play. That’s why we at the Labor Department are committed to helping employers—Including state and local public-sector agencies—understand the steps they can take to promote mental health-friendly work environments,” said Assistant Secretary Taryn Williams. “We’re pleased to call the U.S. Conference of Mayors a partner in the State Exchange on Employment and Disability initiative and look forward to the knowledge-sharing and collaboration that the Mental Health and Employment Working Group will foster.” Since 2020, the National Center for Health Statistics’ Household Pulse Survey revealed an increasing number of adults reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reported a growing number of adults who say they have experienced mental health conditions caused by lingering Covid-19 symptoms.

U.S. Senators Manchin, Capito Announce Continued Essential Air Services at Lewisburg, Clarksburg Airports

Sept. 14, 2022—U.S. Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Joe Manchin of West Virginia on Wednesday announced Essential Air Services (EAS) will continue at North Central West Virginia Airport in Clarksburg (CKB) and Greenbrier Valley Airport in Lewisburg (LWB) following a decision by SkyWest Airlines in March to terminate EAS services at 29 airports across the U.S. including Clarksburg and Lewisburg, according to a press release. “Air service is absolutely critical for West Virginia, connecting our communities to the rest of the country, helping businesses export their products and increasing tourism across our great state,” Senator Manchin said. “I have fought for EAS program funding for years to bring quality, reliable air travel and new economic opportunities to West Virginia, and I am pleased Contour Airlines will be continuing these critical flight services at the Clarksburg and Lewisburg airports. I am grateful to DOT for their commitment to protecting EAS in West Virginia, and I will continue advocating for our transportation hubs across the Mountain State.” EAS at Clarksburg and Lewisburg airports will now be provided by Contour Airlines following a selection process conducted by the U.S. Department of Transportation and will start a three-year term on December 1, 2022. However, SkyWest is still responsible for providing EAS at both airports until the new term begins. “Our airports in West Virginia are vital to connecting our residents and our communities with the rest of our country and world,” Senator Capito said. “These three-year contracts that will provide weekly service between our North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB) in Clarksburg and our Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB) in Lewisburg to Charlotte Douglas International Airport will not only create great opportunities for our residents but will also serve as a gateway for people around the globe to visit West Virginia. I have long fought to keep Essential Air Services at our airports in West Virginia, and I’m thrilled to see this operation come to fruition.”

EPA Launches Program to Protect 3 Boston-area River Watersheds

Sept. 14, 2022—The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Wednesday announced advanced actions in protecting three Boston-area watersheds from stormwater pollutants, which were previously unregulated. The Charles, Mystic and Neponset rivers will now be protected under the Clean Water Act, requiring permit coverage under the provision titled "residual designation authority," for stormwater discharge. This includes commercial, industrial, and institutional properties that have one or more acres of impervious area such as hard surfaces like parking lots, roofs, and roadways that make it difficult for stormwater to soak into the ground, according to a press release. "On the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, EPA is taking strong, decisive action to ensure that all our citizens have access to local waterways that support enjoyment and recreation. It is clear that the nature and scale of the problem requires urgent action on this pressing environmental justice concern," EPA New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash said. "With a warming climate there is no time to waste to reduce bacterial and nutrient pollution in stormwater and the resulting water quality degradation including harmful algae blooms experienced yearly in all three watersheds." The general permit will be released in draft form by the EPA for public comment and will also be gathering public feedback on the implementation of the program at that time, per EPA regulations.

Alaska Receives $6.7 Million to Boost Tourism, Develop New Visitor Infrastructure

Sept. 13, 2022—U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo on Tuesday announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded Matanuska-Susitna Borough, Alaska, with a $6.7 million grant through the American Rescue Plan, according to a press release. The grant will be used to boost tourism and develop new visitor infrastructure and amenities. The funding will be allocated to the construction of a new visitors center and will provide local businesses with additional retail space with the goal of helping them connect with visitors in a central location. “President Biden recognizes the vital contribution the travel and tourism industry makes to the American economy,” Raimondo said. “This project will create new opportunities for businesses in Matanuska-Susitna Borough to tap into Alaska’s important tourism economy, expanding the potential for economic growth and resilience.” “The Economic Development Administration plays an important role in supporting community-led economic development strategies designed to boost coronavirus recovery and response efforts,” Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development Alejandra Y. Castillo said. “This EDA investment will provide a critical new amenity that the region needs to support local businesses and increase tourism in the community.” The grant will also be partially matched with $1.7 million in local funding to retain or create roughly 180 jobs, according to estimates. Read more here.

Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index Dropped in August

Sept. 13, 2022—The Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index dipped to a level of 5,021 after falling 2.7% in August with a total year to date decrease of 12.6% during the first eight months of 2022, according to a press release. “Hotel stocks took a breather in August after July’s sharp rebound. Despite the slight decline in stock prices, both the Global Hotel Brands and Hotel REITs outperformed their respective benchmarks in August,” Michael Bellisario, senior hotel research analyst and director at Baird, said. “Hotel trends have remained solid throughout the summer months despite all the capital markets volatility and macroeconomic uncertainties. However, investors appear somewhat skeptical about the prospects for a significant recovery in business transient travel post-Labor Day, and hotel stocks appear to be discounting this relatively conservative fundamental expectation, in our opinion.” “Even with expected seasonal slowing, demand and room rates have remained at healthy levels,” Amanda Hite, STR president said. “Upscale and upper midscale hotels reported stronger occupancy levels in August, appealing to price-conscious leisure and corporate transient travelers. With schools now back in session, owners and operators are closely watching the return of the corporate group and individual traveler to understand if, and how, patterns have changed since the onset of the pandemic. Association and large group event organizers are looking forward to the first fall without significant health restrictions, which could drive event attendance to new heights. When looking at the bottom line, GOPPAR surpassed 2019 levels for a fourth consecutive month in July. But as wages increase and operations are ramped up further, expenses will likely continue to rise, putting pressure on profit growth.” However, Baird/STR Hotel Stock Index outperformed both the S&P 500 (-4.2%) and the MSCI US REIT Index (-6.1%). The Hotel REIT sub-index decreased by 3.7% to 1,143, while the Hotel Brand sub-index dropped 2.3% from July to 8,959.

‘National Economic Disaster’ U.S. Chamber of Commerce Urges Action on Railroad Negotiations

Sept. 12, 2022—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce on Monday sent a letter to Congress urging immediate action in the negotiations with the country’s six largest freight railroads and 12 unions to avoid a shutdown of the nation’s rail service that would have “enormous national consequences,” according to the letter. “A national rail strike would be an economic disaster—freezing the flow of goods, emptying shelves, shuttering workplaces, and raising prices for families and businesses alike, but that is exactly what is likely to happen in less than four days. To avoid a strike and the catastrophic economic impacts that would follow, one of three things needs to happen: the remaining unions who have not agreed to a deal need to join the ones who have; an agreement to extend the current ‘cooling off’ period must be reached; or Congress intervenes, as it has in prior situations. If action is not taken, the nation’s rail service will come to a halt, the negative impacts of which cannot be understated.” The letter also suggests that Congress implement the recommendations of President Biden’s Presidential Emergency Board (PEB), which includes wage increases among other measures, if unions and carriers are unable to reach an agreement. A rail service shutdown would have a serious impact on 46 states and cost the U.S. economy roughly $2 billion a day.

FAA, NTSB Clarify Agency Roles During Commercial Space Investigations

Sept. 9, 2022—Members of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) on Friday signed an agreement clarifying the specific roles of the agencies during investigations into commercial space accidents, according to a press release. The agreement was signed by National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy and Federal Aviation Administration Acting Administrator Billy Nolen. “For over three decades, the NTSB has led and supported major commercial space mishap investigations that have made human spaceflight safer to this day," Homendy said. “This agreement is proof that the federal government can keep pace with the exciting advances taking place in the private sector while also prioritizing safety as we enter a new space age." The NTSB will lead investigations involving any fatalities or injuries of persons, regardless of whether the individual was on board a commercial space launch or reentry vehicle, or if a commercial launch or reentry results in property damage, injury or death caused by debris created during a launch or reentry. The FAA will be responsible for investigating all other commercial space mishaps.

Scramble for Hotel Rooms After Queen's Passing Starts Now

Sept. 9, 2022—With the announcement of the death of Queen Elizabeth in London, hotel bookings have begun to soar. Tim Hentschel, founder and CEO of HotelPlanner.com says that the site "has seen a 20% increase in searches for London hotels from IP addresses in North America over the past 12 hours, and around a 32% increase in bookings. Also about a 10% to 20% jump in room rates over the past 12 hours, particularly among four and five-star hotels, the latter of which are going for £1,000 per night. HotelPlanner is forecasting that rates will double in the next few days across hotel categories."  The next 10 days in the United Kingdom will be official Days of Mourning for Queen Elizabeth. King Charles' official Coronation may occur up to 10 months after his succession to the throne. It remains for the King to name William as Prince of Wales, but when that occurs as is expected, William will be invested as Prince of Wales in the capital of Wales, Cardiff. For all of these events, hotel bookings in and around London (and Cardiff, Wales) and possibly near the Queen's Scottish home of Balmoral will be experiencing higher than normal volumes.

United Airlines Invests Additional $15 Million in Flying Taxis

Sept. 8, 2022—United Airlines on Thursday announced a $15 million investment in Eve Air Mobility, marking another significant bid by United in flying taxis. In addition, United announced the conditional purchase of 200 four-seat electric aircraft, plus 200 options, with the first delivery of the flying taxis, or eVTOLs (electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle), expected as soon as 2026, according to a press release. United Airlines and Eve Air Mobility also announced future projects including additional studies and development of the aircraft and the urban air mobility (UAM) ecosystem with the goal of revolutionizing the commuter experience in cities around the globe. "United has made early investments in several cutting-edge technologies at all levels of the supply chain, staking out our position as a leader in aviation sustainability and innovation," President of United Airlines Ventures Michael Leskinen said. "Today, United is making history again, by becoming the first major airline to publicly invest in two eVTOL companies. Our agreement with Eve highlights our confidence in the urban air mobility market and serves as another important benchmark toward our goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050–without using traditional offsets. Together, we believe our suite of clean energy technologies will revolutionize air travel as we know it and serve as the catalyst for the aviation industry to move toward a sustainable future."

Govt. Of the Municipality of Los Cabos, Mexico Implements New Environmental Sanitation Tax

Sept. 8, 2022—The government of the municipality of Los Cabos, Mexico announced a new tax that will support environmental infrastructure, sustainability practices, and safety and security, among other projects, according to a press release issued by AMR Collection resorts. The new mandatory tax is $33.68 Mexican Pesos per room, per night, approximately $1.70 USD, effective Sept. 8, and is applicable to all guests staying in Los Cabos regardless of room occupancy. However, the tax will be included in the room rate and will not be charged as an additional fee. All reservations booked prior to Sept. 8 will be exempt from the tax.

Biden-Harris Administration, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Launch New Climate Hazard Tracking Tool

Sept. 8, 2022—The Biden-Harris administration and the Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Department of the Interior (DOI) on Thursday introduced a new website that will allow communities across the country track and analyze potential climate-related hazards and quickly find federal funds, including those allocated through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to support climate resilience projects in their area, according to a press release. The interactive geospatial website, Climate Mapping for Resilience and Adaptation (CMRA), allows people to consider their exposure and the long-term impact of climate-related hazards in their communities. The tool uses data integrated from across the federal government in real-time with the intention of assisting federal, state, local and tribal governments as well as non-profit organizations in creating equitable solutions to protect people, property, and infrastructure. “From day one, President Biden made a clear commitment to protect our most vulnerable communities from the impacts of climate change,” Deputy National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi said. “This website is designed as a one-stop shop to equip those on the ground with the tools they need to plan and prepare, and to access federal resources to build greater resilience.”

Holiday Inn Under Cyber-Attack

Sept. 7, 2022—The popular hotel chain, owned by hospitality industry titan Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG), announced today their technology system has indeed been hacked. IHG released a statement to confirm their booking system and other applications have been infiltrated since Monday, per BBC news. IHG assures they are taking the issue seriously. While still investigating the full scope of damage, the company says it is bringing in outside experts and pursuing legal action against the hackers with the authorities. Despite public complaints on social media about the hacked system, IHG claims their booking system is up and running. “IHG’s hotels are still able to operate and to take reservations directly,” says the company.

Las Vegas Sands and Marina Bay Sands Create $1 Million Hospitality Scholarship Program in Singapore

Sept. 7, 2022—Las Vegas Sands and Marina Bay Sands have launched a $1 million scholarship program in Singapore. The program is being facilitated through Sands Cares, the company’s community engagement program. With tourism in Singapore expected to grow in the coming years, Singapore is looking to capitalize by increasing its hospitality career opportunities. The Sands Hospitality Program will give the opportunity to more than 100 Singaporean students at six Singapore-based institutes, Nanyang Polytechnic, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore Polytechnic, Temasek Polytechnic and the Singapore Institute of Technology. The program will begin in 2023.

Labor Day Travel Recovers Beyond 2019 Levels

Sept. 7, 2022—The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that over the Labor Day holiday, they screened 8.76 million travelers between Friday, Sept. 2 and Monday, Sept. 5. The weekend travel volume represents 102% of volume for the same pre-pandemic holiday weekend in 2019 and is the first time that a holiday weekend passenger screening volume exceeds that of 2019. Transportation Security Officers screened 2.48 million passengers, says the administration’s website.

Dept. of Homeland Security Launches Inaugural Tribal Homeland Security Advisory Council

Sept. 7, 2022—The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on Wednesday announced the establishment of the first-ever Tribal Homeland Security Advisory Council, as well as the opening period for membership nominations. The purpose of the newly formed Council is to allow tribal leaders to advise the security policies and practices implemented by DHS and their direct impact on indigenous communities, including law enforcement, emergency management, cybersecurity, border security, domestic terrorism and targeted violence, according to a press release issued by DHS. “The inaugural Tribal Homeland Security Advisory Council is a result of sustained engagement to improve nation-to-nation relationships and comes at a time of critical importance,” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said. “I look forward to building a new Council that will provide timely advice and recommendations directly from Indian Country regarding how we can better work together to improve homeland security.” To create a diverse pool of members that reflects the wide expanse of Indian Country, individuals nominated for leadership will be selected based on their qualifications, including professional background, geographic location and technical expertise. Nominations will be accepted over the next 30 days.

AMEX GBT, Travelport Renew Strategic Relationship with Tech Upgrades

Sept. 6, 2022—American Express Global Business Travel (AMEX GBT) and London-based Travelport on Tuesday announced a multi-year agreement renewing their strategic relationship, which now spans more than 40 years. The goal of the ongoing relationship seeks to enhance travel retailing with new technologies and simplified processes that power bookings and travel suppliers from around the globe. “We value our relationship with Amex GBT which has lasted more than 40 years. Deepening our collaboration by using Travelport+ will benefit both Amex GBT and its business customers,” Jason Toothman, Chief Commercial Officer - Agency at Travelport said. “Combining Amex GBT’s expertise with our modern travel retailing tools will ultimately improve how corporate travel is managed. The introduction of Travelport+ servicing capabilities and retailing improvements will ensure continued focus on delivering customer, traveler and supplier value to Amex GBT’s marketplace.”

Incentive Groups Want Luxury Says New Survey

Sept. 6, 2022—The Incentive Research Foundation's most recent report,  Decision Drivers 2022: Elevating the Experience, finds that 80% of groups surveyed (US-based) prefer luxury accommodations for incentive trips. The survey also found that the 10 top destinations for incentive groups are: 1. Hawaii; 2. Caribbean; 3. Western US; 4. Western Europe (France, Italy, Spain, etc.); 5. Southern US (New Orleans, Atlanta, etc.); 6. Southwest (New Mexico, Arizona, etc.); 7. Eastern US; 8. Alaska; 9. Mexico and 10. Canada. On a webinar on September 6, Rick Garlick, the IRF's chief research officer said that the survey found a continuing trend in European cruising. Within the cruising demographic, the Caribbean was up by 50% as a desired destination followed by Europe at 30%.

Hospitality Students Awarded $1 million in Scholarships

Sept. 6, 2022—Students of the hospitality industry from across the U.S. have been awarded $1 million in scholarships from The American Hotel and Lodging Association Foundation (AHLAF). The scholarships will be allocated to 336 program participants over the course of the 2022-23 academic school year. Of the participants receiving funds, 72% are female and 51% are people of color. The age range of program participants is 18 to 70. Recipients of the scholarships are students from two-year and four-year schools including 10 community colleges and 71 other institutions across 36 states and Washington D.C. To date, AHLAF has contributed roughly $16 million to students pursuing careers in the hospitality industry. “Now more than ever it is critical to empower the future minds of the hospitality industry. Through this generous giving, the scholarship recipients at these various institutions will build upon their skills to discover the many exciting career opportunities our industry has to offer,” Sarah Cozewith, Vice President of Workforce Development of the AHLA Foundation said. “We could not be more thrilled to help them on their journey.” Read more here.

Port Canaveral to Receive $1.9 Million in Security Funding

Sept. 2, 2022—The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $1.9 million in federal grant funding to Port Canaveral through its Port Security Grant Program (PSGP), given to protect the Port’s infrastructure from terrorism and other threats. The Canaveral Port Authority will received $1.3 million in federal funding for two Port Canaveral security enhancement projects: the Cybersecurity Vulnerability Reduction Project and for the purchase of a new Security Rapid Response Boat. In addition, the Canaveral Pilots Association was awarded $684,265 in PSGP funding for the purchase of a new high-tech response boat. Port Canaveral was one of more than 30 U.S. ports awarded federal funding in 2022 from FEMA’s 100 million PSGP program. Read more here.

California Passes Sweeping Climate and Clean Energy Package, Industry Profs Respond

California lawmakers on Wednesday passed SB-1137, allocating $54 billion toward clean energy and measures to mitigate the effects of severe drought amid intense heat and a 22-year drought in the western United States. The new package is aligned with the California air regulator’s vote to eliminate the sales of new gas-powered vehicles by 2035. The bill focuses on the regulation of projects to decarbonize the state’s power grid, end new oil drilling around communities and create interim targets for 100% clean energy. In addition, the closure of the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant, the last in the state, has been postponed until 2030. Industry professionals in the state have grappled with the impacts of climate change over recent years as extreme weather and wildfires have plagued areas known for being tourism destinations, including Lake Tahoe and California’s wine country, with strides in sustainability taking place across the board in the hospitality and tourism industries. “This legislation plays an important role in continually moving California and our destinations forward in recognizing the realities of climate change and taking responsibility for being part of the solution. Sonoma County Tourism has a solid commitment to destination stewardship and sustainable travel,” says Claudia Vecchio, president and CEO of Sonoma County Tourism. Read more here.

National Hotel Employee Day Announced by AHLA

The Washington D.C.-based American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) has established Sept. 1 as National Hotel Employee Day, recognizing the contributions of hotel workers and their impact on the hotel, tourism and meetings industries, according to a press release. The announcement comes amid a nationwide hotel staffing shortage with roughly 120,000 open hotel positions. The AHLA reports that severe staffing shortages and increased demand, due to the busy summer travel season, have resulted in a national increase in the average wages of hotel workers to $22.25 an hour in May 2022. The average wage was $18.74 an hour prior to the pandemic. “There has never been a better time to work in the hotel industry than right now,” AHLA President & CEO Chip Rogers said. The newly-established National Hotel Employee Day was launched to thank and celebrate hotel employees who are critical in supporting the nearly $2 trillion tourism industry, according to the announcement. Read more here.

Alaska Airlines Adds New Nonstop Flights to Anchorage

Event profs and attendees headed to Anchorage from the Seattle area’s Snohomish County Airport (PAE) in Everett, Washington can do so with nonstop flights starting Nov. 30, 2022, with tickets now available for purchase at alaskaair.com, per Travel Daily News. Direct flights from the Everett airport to Ted Stevens International Airport (ANC), will be serviced through Alaska’s sister carrier, Horizon Air, and will be the farthest nonstop flight from that commercial travel hub, also known as Paine Field Airport. "We listened to our guests who live and work from north of Seattle to the Canadian border. They told us one of their top requests is a nonstop flight between Everett and Anchorage," Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances for Alaska Airlines said in a statement. "There's a significant need and demand to connect workers and businesses in the two regions—from the fishing industry to aviation—In addition to the desire for leisure travel. We're ready to welcome our guests on this new route this fall.” Read more here.

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts Announces Partnership with Aesop

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, a Hilton brand, this month announced a partnership with Aesop, a vegan skincare brand. Aesop’s products center on hair and skin care, fragrance and other personal care products that will now be offered in Waldorf Astoria properties around the world. This partnership helps reflect the Hilton’s commitment to environmental sustainability as all in-room toiletries will be made from 97% post-consumer recycled plastic. All toiletries will also be full-size rather than travel-size to help reduce environmental impact.  Read more here. 

Four Season Launches New Platform: Luxury is Our Love Language

In an effort to redefine luxury, the Four Seasons is debuting new branding that will continue to roll out over the next year. Luxury is Our Love Language is focused on a belief that true luxury should be personalized and intimate rather than rigid and scripted. By using surveys from guest experiences to personal anecdotes, Le Tuc, an NYC-based creative collective, partnered with Four Seasons to create personalized luxury experiences.  As a part of this branding, The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown will soon have a custom Acts of Love postcard experience for guests to write letters to their family, friends and loved ones.  Read more here.

EventUp Releases Data on Hottest Planning Trends in 2022

The largest global marketplace for booking events, EventUp (powered by Tripleseat), this month released its findings on the most popular trends among meeting profs for selecting venues in 2022.  EventUp works to connect various types of venues with planners to create ideal experiences. The data is based on leads and events booked through EventUp’s marketplace in 2022. "We are seeing an uptick not only in event size but also the amount of planners willing to invest in executing a perfect celebration," Jonathan Morse, CEO of Tripleseat, said in a press release. "By looking at the trends both locally and globally we are able to better understand and support planners' needs in order to connect them with the perfect venue.” Top Trends

• The average spend for events is $3,545; $35,827 for holiday parties
• New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Atlanta ranked highest in popularity among host cities
• Top celebrations include birthday parties and baby showers
• Saturday is still the most popular day to party
• The average event size is 130 guests
• Restaurants and bars ranked highest as popular meeting venues

Orlando Health, Visit Orlando Form Official Wellness Partnership

A new partnership connecting leisure and medical health experts has taken shape between the Official Tourism Association for Orlando, Visit Orlando, and Orlando Health, offering health-related benefits to Orlando’s millions of visitors as the country’s most visited destination. Orlando Health is a nonprofit healthcare organization serving the southeastern U.S. “This new partnership allows us to seamlessly connect both leisure guests and meetings groups with Orlando Health’s medical experts to make healthy travel more accessible,” said Casandra Matej, president & chief executive officer, Visit Orlando. The partnership provides both tourists and member organizations with access to a wellness and health resources telephone concierge service to provide individualized health resources and visitor-specific wellness tips.  Read more here.

Transportation Secretary Buttigieg Asks Airlines for Hotels, Meal Vouchers

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has sent a letter to nine major airlines saying that they should pay for meals and hotels when travelers face delays or cancellations. Buttigieg asked for meal vouchers for delays of at least three hours caused by airlines themselves. He also asked for hotel lodging vouchers for passengers stranded overnight, per Bloomberg. Buttigieg said in the letter that air carriers canceled 3.2 % of domestic flights and delayed 24% of domestic flights in the first six months of 2022.“These aren’t just numbers," Buttigieg wrote. “These are missed birthday parties, graduations, time with loved ones and important meetings.” Read more here.

Destinations International Unveils New EDI Tool 

A tool created to assess Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) was launched by Destinations International during the association’s 2022 Annual Convention in Toronto with the purpose of assisting destination organizations of all budget sizes and locations to better assess the implementation of EDI strategies while tracking progress through data-driven metrics. The new EDI tool will also help to set the standards for EDI initiatives across the industry, Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International said. Read more here.