Breaking Meetings News: Hospitality News Updates

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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