U.S. Travel and Airlines for America Detail Toll of Shutdown
By Todd McElwee
With the 43-day federal government shutdown ending on November 12, U.S. Travel Association and Airlines for America (A4A) both offered comment on the reopening while also providing data on the fallout from the closure.
Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) joined the aforementioned organizations in urging Congress to push forward with sector matters.
Labeling the shutdown as “43 days of chaos,” U.S. Travel noted the nation squandered more than $6 billion in lost travel spending during the period.
“All government shutdowns are irresponsible—period,” said Geoff Freeman, President & CEO, U.S. Travel. “They jeopardize essential services, erode public confidence and inflict needless economic pain. If Congress ever goes down this foolish path again, essential federal workers—like air traf-
fic controllers and TSA officers—must be paid without interruption. America cannot afford another self-inflicted crisis that threatens the systems millions rely on every day. This resolution restores stability to the people and systems that keep travel moving—but it must also drive long-term change. Congress should invest in the modern infrastructure, technology and workforce needed to keep America moving forward.”
A4A thanked the president for signing the bill that ended the shutdown while also urging Congress to ensure future funding bills do not allow aviation to become collateral damage in policy debates. Paying air traffic controllers with the FAA’s $5 billion Airport and Airway Trust Fund was also brought up.
“With President Trump’s signature, the longest shutdown in our nation’s history has finally come to an end,” the association said. “This prolonged
disruption placed significant strain on millions of Americans—including travelers, shippers and the federal employees who keep our aviation system safe. We are grateful to the dedicated air traffic controllers and TSA officers who showed up for work despite not getting paid. Additionally, thousands of airline employees have been going the extra mile to take care of customers during these challenging days.”
Citing FAA research on November 10, A4A noted thatcontroller staffing issues disrupted 5.2 million A4A airline passengers from October 1 through November 9. From October 1–29, A4A member airlines canceled just 11 flights due to controller staffing issues. From October 30 to November 9, controller staffing issues forced 4,162 cancelations, including 3,756 from November 7–9.
Captain Jason Ambrosi, President
The Atlanta CVB hosted the 26th annual Atlanta Hospitality Hall of Fame (HoF) on November 12 at The Foundry at Puritan Mill. The event highlighted the achievements of the inductees and honored the Spurgeon Richardson Member of the Year award and Volunteer of the Year honoree. Left to right: Patrick Lee, Director of Sales and Marketing, Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Buckhead (Volunteer of the Year honoree); William Pate, President & CEO, Atlanta CVB; Cookie Smoak, former president, ATL Airport District CVB (HoF inductee); Norma Dean, former director of national specialty sales, Delta Air Lines (HoF inductee); Gerry Klaskala, owner and co-founder, Canoe and former owner and founder, Aria (HoF inductee); Sherry Henry, Vice President, Dragon Con Inc. (HoF inductee); Pat Henry, President, Dragon Con Inc. (HoF inductee); Erica Qualls-Battey, Chair, ACVB, and Area General Manager, Marriott International; David Rubinger, Market President and Publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle; and Will Ramsey, Vice President, Sales, Georgia Aquarium (Spurgeon RIchardson
HOTS Death of the Unlucky Penny… At 232 years old, the American penny has been put to rest, the New York Times reports. On November 12, the Treasury Department announced it had minted its last penny. The department said the declining relevancy of the coin and its increasingly expensive production costs—it cost three cents to mint a penny—are to blame. President Donald Trump declared the end to the penny earlier this year. The penny was first minted in Philadelphia in 1793, and it has seen a couple of iterations during its lifetime. When it was first made, the penny depicted Lady Liberty, but in 1909, Abraham Lincoln replaced the lady. Currently, there are approximately 250 billion pennies in circulation, so it will take some time
USAE
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
Publisher-Emeritus Ross E. Heller ross@usaenews.com
Marketing & Circulation Director Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com
To
HOTS HOTS
for Americans to stop seeing the persistent little buggers. According to the Times, as the coin moves out of circulation, businesses will be required to round transactions to the nearest nickel when dealing with cash. HOTS wonders how long it will take Americans to increase the going rate of a thought now that the penny is on its way out of circulation.
HOTS A Relic Returned… The state of Michigan returned a rare item to its owner, Larry Orr, in an odd settlement, the Associated Press reports.
The item in question was a life ring from the shipwreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, a famous freighter that sank in Lake Superior in 1975, killing all 29 men aboard the vessel. Orr found the life ring and a portion of a lifeboat on the shore of the Upper Penninsula eight days after the sinking. “There was an eerie feeling. Maybe someone had survived,” Orr told the AP. “I looked around for footprints or any other sign of life for a while and never found anything.” The life ring was part of negotiations between Orr and the State of Michigan during a lawsuit wherein Orr alleged police
misconduct during a sexual abuse investigation in which Orr was a suspect. The accusation was ultimately discredited, but Orr spent five months in jail before charges were dropped in 2019. Orr alleged the state suddenly expressed interested in the life ring after finding paperwork on it during a search of his home in Michigan, and he subsequently asked for the ring as part of the settlement deal. After scrutiny, the state returned the ring and paid Orr $600,000 as part of the terms of the settlement. HOTS thinks that’s one wild ride for a life ring, all history considered.
Turkey Federation Poll Shows 94% of Americans Celebrating Thanksgiving
By Todd McElwee
Americans have an overwhelming hunger for Thanksgiving.
New consumer polling from the National Turkey Federation (NTF) finds that 94% of Americans plan to celebrate the holiday in 2025. NTF estimates nearly 30 million turkeys will be enjoyed across the country this Thanksgiving. “Thanksgiving brings people together in a way that few traditions can, and turkey is always at the center of that celebration,” Leslee Oden, President & CEO, NTF. “Whether
you’re hosting a crowd or cooking your first bird, America’s turkey industry is proud to help make those special moments possible.”
Eighty-seven percent of those who celebrate Thanksgiving say turkey is part of their holiday meal most years, and 74% plan to serve a whole bird.
“Whether you’re hosting a crowd or cooking your first bird, America’s turkey industry is proud to help make those special moments possible.”
Nearly three-quarters of gatherings include three to 10 guests, with 59% of respondents planning to host a meal. More than eight in 10 send guests home with leftovers.
Sixty-five percent of Americans roast their turkey in the oven. Ten percent will smoke their bird, while frying,
grilling and air frying each garnered some votes.
To help the public cook with confidence, NTF’s Thanksgiving 101 resource hub on EatTurkey.org offers step-by-step guidance—from thawing and roasting to carving and storing leftovers safely. The site features a defrosting calculator, cooking time charts, recipes, carving tutorials, and leftover inspiration to keep turkey on the table all weekend long.
Consumer insights were derived from an online survey conducted in August among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 consumers between the ages of 18–75. The research was commissioned by NTF and conducted by 210 Analytics. Find more information at eatturkey.org
Half of Americans Try to Leave Family Holidays Early, Study States
By Jordan Bradley
A study commissioned by Hilton ahead of the holiday travel season found that half of Americans staying with their families for the holidays fib their way out of longer stays during their visits.
“Americans may go home for the holidays, but too much togetherness takes a toll,” Hilton said.
The survey— conducted in partnership with Morning Consult— talked with 2,200 adults and found that 15% of Americans plant to stay overnight with family during the
holiday season. Of those Americans, 53% “say they’ve made excuses to shorten their stay with relatives during the holiday season.”
Through the survey’s research, Hilton found that disrupted sleep schedules are a major reason for these excuses: more than one-third of respondents staying with family sleep “somewhere other than a bed” and “imposed bedtimes” disrupt sleep cycles.
“Americans may go home for the holidays, but too much togetherness takes a toll,” Hilton said.
Medical institutions are increasingly emphasizing the importance of getting good sleep to maintain overall health. According to the Harvard University’s
Division of Sleep Medicine, “sleep is vital for learning and memory,” and lack of sleep impacts our overall health, safety, and longevity.
For those hosting during the holidays, Hilton’s survey found that sleep disruption is a very real thing, with more than two-thirds of hosts feeling “exhausted” and that almost half saying “they would enjoy the season more if guests stayed somewhere else.”
Hilton is using the study to promote holiday getaways in Hilton resorts and to highlight the brand’s holiday sale: 25% off stays booked between now and December 15 at participating Hilton hotels for stays through April 6, 2026.
By Todd McElwee
Celebrating 150 years in 2026, a new chapter has commenced at the American Library Association (ALA).
On November 10, Daniel J. Montgomery joined the organization as its Executive Director. He succeeds Interim Executive Director Leslie Burger.
“As someone who believes deeply in the power of education and community, I’m honored to join the American Library Association,” Montgomery said. “Libraries are cornerstones of democracy, vital spaces for learning, connection and inclusion. I look forward to supporting ALA’s incredible work nationwide.”
American Library Association Welcomes Executive Director Daniel Montgomery
members across 400 local affiliates.
Montgomery earned an A.B. from the University of Michigan and an M.S.Ed. from Northwestern University’s School of Education and Social Policy.
“Libraries are cornerstones of democracy, vital spaces for learning, connection and inclusion. I look forward to supporting ALA’s incredible work nationwide.”
Montgomery has led the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT) since 2010, representing more than 103,000
“In a time when libraries are vital to democracy and access to information, we believe Dan is the leader who can guide ALA with vision and purpose,” said ALA President Sam Helmick.
“His lifelong dedication to public service and his belief in the transformative power of learning make him the right leader to guide ALA into its next chapter. I’m thrilled to welcome him as we continue to strengthen libraries as essential community institutions.”
ALA said its search committee cited Montgomery’s dedication to public institutions, ability to navigate diverse and complex political environments, and leadership in managing a large,
Meet Where Ideas
member-driven organization as key reasons for his appointment.
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Daniel J. Montgomery
Marriott Severs Licensing Agreement with Hospitality Company Sonder Sonder Announces Bankruptcy Plans
By Jordan Bradley
Marriott International has severed its licensing agreement with Sonder Holdings, an apartment-style lodging company designed to rival Airbnb, after little more than a year.
The hotel giant made the announcement on November 9, citing Sonder’s “default.”
The following day, Sonder—which operates in 40 cities worldwide—announced it had begun winding down operations, and it “expects to initiate a Chapter 7 liquidation of its U.S. business” alongside initiating insolvency proceedings for its international properties.
Sonder joined Marriott’s Bonvoy loyalty program and booking platform in October last year in the 20year agreement.
Sonder, in a November 10 announcement, said the company had “prolonged challenges” integrating into Marriott’s systems and booking channels that, in part, led to its financial problems.
“Sonder has faced severe financial constraints arising from, among
other things, prolonged challenges in the integration of the Company’s systems and booking arrangements with Marriott International,” Sonder said. The company’s interim CEO, Janice Sears, said it had explored “all viable alternatives” to keep the company running.
“We are devastated to reach a point where a liquidation is the only viable path forward,” Sears said. “Unfortunately, our integration with Marriott International was substantially delayed due to unexpected challenges in aligning our technology frameworks, resulting in significant, unanticipated integration costs, as well as a sharp decline in revenue arising from Sonder’s participation in Marriott’s Bonvoy reservation system. These issues persisted and contributed to a substantial and material loss in working capital. We explored all viable alternatives to avoid this outcome, but we are left with no choice other than to proceed with an immediate wind-down of our operations and liquidation of our assets.”
Sonder was established in 2014 and purported to offer “inspiring,
Destinations International Launches 2025 Tourism Lexicons
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI) marked World Tourism Lexicon Day on November 13 with the release of the 2025 Tourism Lexicons.
The 2025 editions include updated Tourism Lexicons for the United States, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada (English and French language versions), along with the 2025 Welcoming Lexicon and the 2025 Social Impact Lexicons for the United States and Canada (English and French language versions).
The lexicons “serve as tools to inspire a more unified and informed narrative, helping destination leaders speak with clarity, empathy, and purpose about tourism’s essential role as a driver of community vitality and shared prosperity,” according to DI.
“These lexicons are more than words—they are a reflection of our values as an industry and a commitment to speak with unity and purpose,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “World Lexicon Day is a celebration of the
power of language to strengthen advocacy, build trust and remind our communities that when destinations thrive, communities thrive.”
The association said the lexicons have been carefully developed to reflect regional perspectives, evolving public sentiment, and a vocabulary that resonates most with policymakers, community leaders, and residents. They were developed through research and collaboration across regions with support from the DI Foundation.
“The words we choose matter,” said Andreas Weissenborn, Vice President of Research & Advocacy at DI. “We have developed these lexicons to help destination organizations align their storytelling with the evolving expectations of residents, policymakers and visitors. By speaking a shared language, we can more effectively demonstrate that destination promotion is not just about attracting visitors but enhancing the quality of life for everyone who calls a destination home.”
Find the 2025 Tourism Lexicons at destinationsinternational.org
thoughtfully designed accommodations and innovative, tech-enabled service” with accommodations in “premium, design-forward apartments and intimate boutique hotels serving the modern traveler.”
Sears said: “The Board and I are deeply grateful to our employees for their longstanding dedication to putting the guest experience at the center of everything we do. Due to their passion and effort, Sonder spent the last decade redefining hospitality with remarkable and accessible guest stay experiences. On behalf of the entire Sonder team, we express our gratitude to our guests and partners for their business and support over the years.”
Marriott said its immediate priority after the termination of the licensing agreement “is supporting guests currently staying at Sonder properties and those with upcoming reservations,” but guests have reported being unceremoniously booted from their accommodations.
Marriott said its immediate priority after the termination of the licensing agreement “is supporting guests currently staying at Sonder properties and those with upcoming reservations,” but guests have reported being unceremoniously booted from their accommodations.
Traveler Connie Yang told CNBC she had prepaid a 10-day stay at the Sonder Battery Park in New York beginning November 7. Two days into her stay on November 9, Yang said she received an email telling her she had until 9 a.m. the next day to vacate. Some guests caught up in the chaos turned to the internet for clarity or guidance, with one guest posting the email they
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Houston Convention Center Workers Strike New Labor Deal
By Jonathan Trager
Food and beverage workers at the George R. Brown Convention Center have ratified a new contract that includes substantial wage hikes, thereby avoiding a strike they had authorized last month.
The new agreement approved earlier this month applies to about 100 employees of Levy Premium Food Service represented by Unite Here Local 23. The wage floor for these workers will rise from $16 to $20 per hour followed by $2 in incremental raises over the contract that expires in 2028.
The union negotiated the deal with Levy, which contracts with Houston First, the operator of the city-owned convention center.
“Houston First applauds the successful negotiation between Levy and Unite Here Local 23, resulting in a new collective bargaining agreement for food services workers at the George R. Brown Convention Center,” said Houston First President & CEO Michael Heckman in a statement provided to USAE. “These employees are essential to the guest experience at the GRB and this agreement reflects their value through fair compensation and other benefits. We believe the outcome
strikes an important balance between maintaining industry competitiveness and supporting a strong, stable workforce. We commend both parties for their commitment to negotiating in good faith to reach a favorable resolution.”
Although the new wage floor is lower than the $23 minimum the union had initially sought, Franchesca Caraballo, Texas Chapter President of Unite Here Local 23, said the deal marked a “huge victory.”
“A lot of these workers, they’re going to be some of the highest-paid dishwashers, bartenders and cashiers in those classifications anywhere in the city,” Caraballo told the Houston Chronicle
The new contract also includes provisions for more flexibility in scheduling and job safety protections, according to Caraballo.
Unite Here won a similar contract last month at the adjacent Hilton Americas-Houston, the city’s largest hotel, after workers there went on a 40-day strike. The union had pointed to a higher cost of living, record visitor spending, and projected revenue from a planned expansion of the convention center as motivating factors in pursuing the new deal.
Conversation with Megan Conway, President & CEO, Travel Portland
Rose City. Rip City. Stumptown. Beervana.
Portland’s variety of nicknames is as diverse as its culture, neighborhoods and landscapes. With the 42nd Annual National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) Annual Conference in town from November 19–22, Conway and Travel Portland are ready to showcase it all. In the runup to the conference she connected with USAE to discuss the event, diversity and what not to miss in Portland.
USAE: What do you hope NCBMP Annual Conference attendees take away from their time in Portland?
Conway: We hope attendees experience how Portland reflects NCBMP’s values while exploring the incredible diversity across the city. Portland has changed for the better during the last several years. We are excited to show it off.
USAE: In addition to hosting the conference, how has Travel Portland been involved with NCBMP?
Conway: Travel Portland is a proud, multi-year sponsor of NCBMP with staff who are longtime members of the organization, including Tracey Chapman, National Account Director; James Jessie, Chief Operating Officer; Jared Kolleh, National Account Director; and Angela Nelson, Vice President of Equity and Partnerships.
USAE: Describe how DEI fits into the bureau’s strategic plans?
Conway: DEI is top of mind for everything we do at Travel Portland, internally and externally. We have ambitious plans to foster diversity across our industry. Our staff diversity has increased significantly in recent years, and we support the cultural communities and growing diversity within our tourism product as well.
USAE: In Portland, what are you excited for in 2026?
Conway: We’re excited for the Portland Art Museum’s new Black Art and Experiences Gallery, the inaugural season of the WNBA’s Portland Fire, and the debut of the James Beard
Public Market
USAE: What’s one dish and one drink a Portland first timer should not miss?
Conway: Portland is seasonally fu-
Choose Chicago Launches Inclusive Tourism and Community Engagement Department
By Jonathan Trager
Choose Chicago on November 12 announced the creation of the Inclusive Tourism and Community Engagement department, making it the first destination organization in the nation to establish a permanent, fully resourced department dedicated to inclusive tourism.
This structural investment “reflects a long-term commitment to ensuring that the impact and opportunities of Chicago’s tourism industry are shared equitably across all 77 neighborhoods,” according to Choose Chicago, and sets “a new national standard for how destinations can connect economic growth with authentic local storytelling.”
“Choose Chicago continues to make bold moves—setting the standard not only in our marketing and sales
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received to a Marriott page on chat forum Reddit.
The message thanked the guest for their loyalty and informed them: “Sonder properties are no longer part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. As a result, we are unable to continue your reservation beyond today, and we are kindly requesting that you
strategies, but also in how we showcase and serve our community and our clients,” said Kristen Reynolds, President & CEO of Choose Chicago. “Our investments in people and programs reflect our belief that leadership starts from within. The creation of the Inclusive Tourism and Community Engagement department reinforces our commitment to leading with purpose and ensuring that tourism in Chicago delivers meaningful benefits for both residents and visitors.”
The new department will be led by Roz Stuttley, who has been promoted to Vice President of Inclusive Tourism and Community Engagement. A 13-year veteran of Choose Chicago, Stuttley began her career in the Client Services department before establishing an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) department in 2021.
In her role as Director of EDI and
check out of the property as soon as you are able.”
The message also said guests would be refunded the remaining portion of their stay and if they needed assistance booking new accommodation that they should reach out to Marriott’s Customer Care team.
“This seems like the worst possible way to handle this,” the guest wrote in their November 9 post.
Another Reddit user posting for a
Director of the Choose Chicago Foundation, Stuttley has launched programs to support local students, expanding workforce pathways in hospitality, and creating opportunities for more diverse and women-owned businesses to benefit from the tourism industry.
“I’m honored to take on this new role at such an important time for our industry,” said Stuttley. “Tourism has the power to transform communities and enrich lives across our city. I look forward to working closely with our team and partners to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for Chicago’s hospitality and tourism industry.”
Roz Stuttley
friend who had booked a long-term stay “in a Sonder in DC” who had been out of town for Veterans Day weekend and was called by property staff on November 10 to ask him to vacate by 9 a.m. the following morning.
“He took an emergency flight back and by 10pm[sic], he was locked out,” the user wrote. “He has a few thousand dollars worth of clothes, luggage, and other important and sensitive things.”
Yang told CNBC that some of Sonder’s onsite staff were in tears and they “knew nothing.”
All 140 of Sonder’s properties encompassing almost 7,700 rooms have been removed from the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, according to reports. Sonder said additional information about court proceedings and the closure of its properties will be made available “in due course.”
eled by local bounty. Don’t miss trying wild Oregon steelhead, which is similar to salmon, and a glass of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir.
When you book in Birmingham, you’re booking more than just a meeting. You’re booking award-winning dining, world-class entertainment, and more than 300,000 square feet of meeting and convention space, all in one place. So come to Birmingham and take care of business, then get a taste of everything else we have to offer.
Women Leading the Way
Michigan Gourd Society’s Ellen Rodriguez Leads with Passion for Old Art Form
By Jordan Bradley
In our modern high-tech society, it is easy to forget that the human species once used fruit of vines—specifically gourds—as purses and water bottles.
According to Purdue University’s Department of Horticulture, gourds “are among the oldest cultivated plants” and have been documented for use “as utensils such as dippers, and as containers for grain or water storage.”
The bulbous plant has also served as a longtime art medium, serving as three dimensional canvases for sculptures, carvers, painters, weavers and beaders for centuries.
Ellen Rodriguez, President of the Michigan Gourd Society (MGS), a chapter of the American Gourd Society, joined the association as a member with an unexpected passion for gourd art, she told USAE.
Before taking the helm o the association in 2020, Rodriguez became a Master Gardener in 2005 and subsequently joined a public garden that grew vegetables to donate to the public. Through the garden, gardeners were given their own plots to use as
they saw fit, she said.
“We all got a little plot as well, and I planted my first gourd seed, and after that, it was this—I don’t know—desire to find out more about the plant,” Rodriguez said.
Following her curiosity, she discovered gourds have “been around pretty much since the beginning. They were some of the original vessels and water containers,” but the gourd was more than that, too.
According to Less McRae, a private college in Banner Elk, North Carolina: “The use of gourds to create art is almost as old as human civilization itself” and the gourd is “believed to be one of the first plants ever domesticated by humans,” having been discovered at archaeological sites dating as far back as 13,000 BCE in South America and 11,000 BCE in Asia.
When it comes to art making, the gourd offers an almost overwhelming amount of options and opportunities, with hundreds of species in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. While technically squash and pumpkins belong in the same family as gourds—the
MGM Honors Veterans in 15th Annual Weekend Event
By Jordan Bradley
MGM Resorts International partnered with the United Service Organization (USO) and American Airlines to host the 15th annual Salute to the Troops event in honor of Veterans Day at Mandalay Bay over the weekend of November 14.
The five-day event honors more than 100 active-duty service members who have been injured in the line of duty. As part of the event, MGM, USO and American Airlines flew veterans and their families to the Las Vegas resort and casino.
“Salute to the Troops is one of the most meaningful traditions we share at MGM Resorts,” said John Flynn, Sr. Vice President of Global Security and Aviation at MGM. “It’s a privilege to welcome these brave men and women and their families to Las Vegas and express our gratitude in a way that reflects our company’s values.”
The annual event was comprised of events onsite at the Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino and excursions in the area, including excursions to the Hoover Dam and Red Rock Canyon,
a welcome dinner, a visit to Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef Aquarium, a viewing of the Luxor Hotel and Casino’s Blue Man Group, and more.
MGM is regarded as a veteran-friendly company, according to U .S Veterans Magazine. The organization has several initiatives aimed at supporting veterans in the workplace, including its Veterans Employee Network Group, which offers leadership development as well as networking and collaboration opportunities to veterans as they transition into civilian careers. MGM has also been recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense with the Extraordinary Employer Support Award for its efforts.
“MGM Resorts remains committed to support military members and their families year-round, including actively recruiting and employing military men and women,” MGM said.
Flynn, a former service member, told U.S. Veterans Magazine: “The company’s genuine care for its employees and commitment to servant leadership resonated deeply with my values.”
family Cucurbitaceae— “‘gourds’ usually refer to the hard-shelled, non-edible cucurbit fruits suitable for decorative ornaments or utensils,” the Almanac said.
Despite its long history, gourd art is a bit under the radar, according to Rodriguez, but the artists involved with the medium are passionate and helpful. Trained artist Bonnie Gibson—whose carved gourd art is so intricate and fine that photos look almost unreal—offers tutorials and workshops on gourd art making, Rodriguez added.
“I find that that’s how all gourd artists seem to be: very helpful to anybody who wants to learn how to work with them,” Rodriguez said.
Joining the organization’s leadership wasn’t exactly in Rodriguez’s plans. After stepping into gourd artistry, Rodriguez discovered the Michigan Gourd Society, and attended her first meeting. Serendipitously, that same meeting, the board was seeking a treasurer, “and for some reason—I didn’t even know these people—I raised my hand,” she said.
For Rodriguez, this was a bit out of character, she told USAE “You know those tests that you can do to figure out your personality? Mine have always come out that I’m more of an introvert,” Rodriguez said. “But I have always worked to come out of that box.”
The MGS is small, averaging between 2030 members statewide annually across three affiliated gourd patches in the Jackson, Traverse City, and Ann Arbor regions, so the organization’s running falls to the board.
“I’ve found that, almost always, if something is needed, volunteers will step up so I’m not stuck doing everything by myself,” Rodriguez said. “All of our leadership is women and I do tend to lean on them for help as well as guidance. It’s a joint process.”
“I’ve found that, almost always, if something is needed, volunteers will step up so I’m not stuck doing everything by myself,” Rodriguez said. “All of our leadership is women and I do tend to lean on them for help as well as guidance. It’s a joint process.”
But the association’s management doesn’t often overwhelm Rodriguez, as there are always members ready to step up and volunteer for tasks.
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of ALPA, said the “shutdown inflicted real damage,” and that “aviation is not a partisan issue.” He also spelled out aviation priorities Congress should consider.
“Now that the government has reopened, we look forward to working with Congress and industry stakeholders to advance priorities such
Rodriguez said through leading the association she has become comfortable with what is required of her in the role of president when a general consensus can’t be reached.
“If we’re all discussing and it’s going around and around and around, I’m willing to say, ‘Okay, this is what we’re going to do,’” Rodriguez said. “Sometimes you have to be able to make that decision” even if not every member is happy with it.
As with any association, membership is top of mind.
“We’re always trying to reach out into the community to figure out ways to let people know about gourds,” Rodriguez said, noting that patch co-
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as appropriations bills that properly fund the National Mediation Board and protect the public from reducing the number of pilots operating in commercial airliners as well as the Aviation Funding Stability Act, the ROTOR Act, modernizing air traffic control, the Mental Health in Aviation Act, and maintaining the highest standards that keep 2.9 million passengers and 59,000 tons of cargo moving safely every day,” said Ambrosi.
Spotlight on Industry Rising Star Andremarie Jean-Cohen
By Jonathan Trager
Andremarie Jean-Cohen, Membership Engagement Manager for the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) and recipient of ASAE’s 2025 Future Leaders Development Scholarship, says she “definitely had an interesting life growing up.”
The daughter of Haitian immigrants, Jean-Cohen is also the third-youngest of 13 children.
“In my house I was in Haiti, and when I walked outside, I was in the United States. It gave me two perspectives on life and has helped me try to see things from different perspectives when it comes to our members,” she told USAE
Jean-Cohen added: “Being the third-youngest of 13 kids definitely played a role in how I deal with people. I always try to give people room to speak. I know all too well how it feels when you’re not being heard, so I try to be inclusive of others. Sometimes people have small voices but big ideas, and they need an opportunity to speak up.”
Jean-Cohen’s professional journey
began when after receiving an MBA from Western Governor’s University and searching through job boards, a recruiter contacted her with an opportunity to join IFMA.
“It was my first big girl job out of college,” she said. “I started out as a component liaison—like a chapter coordinator—and from there, I really fell in love with the work because I felt like I was impacting people’s lives.”
Jean-Cohen eventually transitioned into the membership department and assumed her current managerial role overseeing a team of three people. Houston-based IFMA boasts more than 25,000 individual managers who operate a wide variety of facilities, including airports, hospitals, government buildings, and much more.
Reaching the average member with all the resources IFMA has to offer them can be a challenge, Jean-Cohen said.
“I know all the work and effort that goes behind making sure they see value and are able to access what we offer, but I can’t force individuals to actually use it,” she said. “I know how much benefit they would get, and
how empowered they would be from taking full advantage. My biggest challenge with my work is building all these great things and then trying to get the average member to access it to its full capacity.”
In 2024, Jean-Cohen attended her first ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition, which she called “a really eye-opening confirmation experience.”
“Being in that space with all these people who were likeminded, the community was so welcoming, I really felt like I found a place in the association world,” she said. “I went by myself, but ASAE did a great job of making me feel connected. I wanted to really dive hardcore into this industry and my career.”
It was “very special” to be chosen as a recipient for ASAE’s Future Leaders Development Scholarship in 2025, Jean-Cohen said, and attending that event was memorable for multiple reasons..
“I was pregnant at the time and I didn’t think I’d be able to go because I
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AMY mcgee Convention Sales Manager
was far along, but my doctor cleared me,” she said. “As a scholarship winner, I definitely connected with other winners. I also came with a lot of intention this ASAE annual versus my first time. This past annual, I made some very meaningful connections, and I really can’t wait to go to the next annual.”
Amy McGee is proud to showcase the flavor, style and soul of ShreveportBossier and make lasting connections. With 9 years of Sales and Hospitality experience, she is passionate about hosting unforgettable meetings and events in this vibrant Louisiana community.
Andremarie Jean-Cohen
NEWS NEWS
Historic Tennessee Hotel Destroyed in Fire
By Jordan Bradley
The historic Donoho Hotel in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, was destroyed by a fire on November 11.
Three area fire departments—Red Boiling Springs, Lafayette, and Willette Fire Departments—responded to reports of visible smoke and flames coming from the Donoho Hotel around 7 a.m., according to the Red Boiling Springs Police Department (RBSPD).
“Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions throughout the building. Despite an extensive and coordinated effort” between the three departments “the structure was ultimately deemed a total loss,” the department said.
At the time of the fire, no guests were inside the Donoho, according to officials. However, operators of the hotel who stay at the hotel were inside and were able to evacuate to safety without injury. A cat was killed in the fire, officials said.
Fire Chief for Red Boiling Springs, Randall Bray, said firefighters did everything they could “under chal-
lenging conditions.”
According to Maynard, an investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, but as of press deadline officials had not identified a possible cause.
“This is a devastating loss for our community,” Maynard said. “The Donoho Hotel has been a landmark in our city’s history, and we understand how deeply this impacts our residents and visitors.”
The loss of the Donoho Hotel is an emotional event for the community, according to Randy East, historian and archivist for Macon County, Tennessee.
“It was just a staple,” East told USAE. “It was a stately, magnificent structure sitting against the hill across the creek. And, sadly, we didn’t take as much note of it as we should. I can’t understate how historic it was. To go into [the Donoho and] absorb the essence of it, absorb the history of it, the smell, the vision. It was great, and it’s a terrible loss—not only for us today, but for the future.”
The original hotel that stood on the site of the Donoho also burnt down
in 1915, and a new structure was built that would become the Donohoe the following year, East said.
East told USAE the Donoho was one of three remaining hotels from Red Boiling Springs’ bygone “heyday” era in the early 1900s, when it had been a popular tourist destination for people seeking the medicinal properties of the region’s mineral water.
“During its heyday, there were probably 10 to 12 hotels and that many boarding houses—and every one of them full,” East said, adding that from his recollection, the Red Boiling Springs population rose from 800 people to 14,000 “just for the water, the relaxation, the atmosphere.”
East said each of the three hotels remaining from that era “had a distinction.” The Donoho was known as a music and entertainment venue with its still-standing entertainment center behind the hotel. The nearby Thomas House has been the site of several ghost hunting expeditions for years, and the Armor hotel—which also suffered a fire earlier this year— was known for keeping the town’s tradition of bathing in mineral water alive. East said he believes the Armor is slated to reopen soon.
“For these hotels, nostalgia plays in,” East said. “Where can you go to escape life? Escape your cell phone, escape the harassment and bombardment of everything? You could go to one of those hotels, sit on the front porch— because they’re all on the same road, on the same creek—and just leave your phone off and do something that people never do anymore, which is called rest. You could sit on the porch and absorb the ambiance of nature.”
Former guests and locals flooded the Donoho Hotel’s Facebook page memories and condolences, and East shared a poem commemorating the significance of the hotel.
East, like many locals, has spent many years attending events and dinners including the annual holiday dinner for the Macon County Historical Society at the Donoho, he told USAE There’s no word yet from the hotel’s owner about whether the structure will be rebuilt.
From East’s perspective, a rebuilt Donoho just wouldn’t be the same, but he hopes for it nonetheless.
“History starts every day,” East said, “and the town needs it. The county needs it. People need it.”
Rodriguez
continued from page 8
ordinators make connections through local art shows and community organizations whenever possible.
Outside of the association’s dedication to spreading the word about gourd art, the MGS is dedicated to hosting or participating in community service events every year. For the last three years, members have donated their time and supplies to support the Learning Fair in Jackson, an organization that provides children and young adults with hands-on opportunities to explore art and technology.
The organization has also worked with House N2 Home, a nonprofit in Southeast Michigan that provides furnishings and art to people moving into homes after experiencing houselessness, by making and providing gourd art for families to hang on their walls.
“We are always trying to do at least one or two community service events a year,” Rodriguez said. “We like to give back to the community.”
The Donoho Hotel was renovated about 10 years ago. Photo by Randy East
The historic Donoho Hotel was destroyed by a fire on November 11. Photo by Nick Beres
Voting Opens for Inaugural ASTA Globes Awards … The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) has opened voting for the inaugural ASTA Globes—an invitation-only awards gala honoring travel advisors and suppliers who exemplify excellence, innovation and leadership.
Winners of the inaugural ASTA Globes will be announced live during a gala celebration on January 22 at the Palmer House in Chicago.
“ASTA members represent the very best of the travel advisor profession; individuals, agencies and partners who embody integrity, professionalism and creativity in serving travelers around the world,” said Zane Kerby, President & CEO of ASTA. “The ASTA Globes are our way of honoring those who go above and beyond. By giving our members the power to vote, we’re ensuring that recognition comes directly from those who understand what true excellence looks like in this industry.”
Awards include Advisor of the Year, honoring exceptional client service and professionalism; Community
CVB Update
One in five Americans has planned a trip specifically for food, according to a national survey of 2,000 adults from California’s Visit Anaheim.
Released earlier this month, the survey data show that 44% of Gen Z and 31% of millennials have taken a “foodcation,” “compared to 21% of Gen X and 11% of baby boomers. On average, respondents traveled 484 miles and spent $910 on their most recent food-focused getaway, with many willing to spend nearly double that amount for the chance to try a bucket-list dish.
“Travelers are more open to trying new places and experiences when food is a key part of their trip,” said Scott Oklin, Chief Marketing Officer at Visit Anaheim. “Younger generations are leading this movement, using social media and AI tools to plan trips as they seek out local favorites, global flavors, and authentic dining experiences that help them connect more deeply with a destination.”
The study also revealed that 75% of respondents research dining options before traveling, spending an average of two and a half hours reading reviews, watching videos, and seeking recommendations. Nearly half (45%) reported enjoying a mix of hidden gems and big-name restaurants.
When asked which state has the best food, New York ranked first, followed closely by California and Texas.
Around Associations
Impact Award, celebrating advisors whose leadership extends beyond business to service in their local communities; and the ASTA Proud Partner Company of the Year Award, honoring an ASTA Proud Partner that, in the eyes of ASTA member advisors, demonstrates exceptional dedication, partnership and support for the advisor community. Additionally, the crowning of the very first winners of the Emerging Leaders Awards, sponsored by Travefy, will take place.
Members are encouraged to vote via an online ballot. Voting is open exclusively to ASTA members through December 2.
Find more information at asta.org.
IAAPA Expo Coming to Orlando
From November 17–21, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) will welcome more than 40,000 professionals from across the world to Orlando for IAAPA Expo 2025. The
Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) is hosting.
The show will feature more than 1,100 exhibitors spanning north of 500,000 square feet of trade show floor. A full slate of education and networking is also on tap.
“A world of limitless potential— where groundbreaking ideas meet real-world solutions, and where connections spark innovation,” IAAPA said on the show’s website. “This is your invitation to join a global community of innovators, disruptors, and dreamers who refuse to accept ‘impossible’ as an answer.”
More information is available at iaapa.org
NAMM and Bass Magazine Hosting Awards in Anaheim… NAMM (The National Association of Music Merchants) and Bass Magazine have announced an events partnership heading into the 2026 NAMM Show. The 2026 Bass Magazine Awards Show
will be part of the official NAMM Show lineup and held on January 22 at The Observatory in Santa Ana.
NAMM is January 20–24 at the Anaheim Convention Center.
The 2026 Bass Magazine Awards Show will be honoring Les Claypool of Primus, Mike Dirnt of Green Day, Marcus Miller, Laura Lee of Khrungbin, and Blu DeTiger.
“ The NAMM Show will always deliver a variety of incredible events for our members, and the addition of the Bass Magazine Awards Show adds even more value to the 2026 NAMM Show as a must-attend event,” said John Mlynczak, President & CEO, NAMM. “We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with Bass Magazine which will bring another incredible night of live music to the NAMM community.”
Find more information at namm.org.
NEWS
Advertorial
Elevate Your Next Meeting in the Heart of Austin
Set in the center of downtown Austin, Fairmont Austin redefines the meeting experience with a balance of sophistication, flexibility and authentic Texas charm. Just 15 minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, this award-winning property offers unmatched convenience for attendees arriving from around the world.
Boasting over 140,000 square feet of versatile meeting and event space, Fairmont Austin stands as a premier destination for conferences, board retreats and educational summits. From expansive ballrooms with sweeping city views to intimate boardrooms designed for strategic sessions, every venue is crafted to inspire productivity and connection.
The hotel’s dedicated conference levels feature a seamless flow between meeting rooms, pre-function areas and networking spaces, allowing planners to design events that move effortlessly from keynotes to breakouts.
Each event at Fairmont Austin benefits from the expertise of a seasoned
team skilled in hosting association and nonprofit programs, as well as largescale corporate gatherings. Whether planning a multi-day convention or an intimate leadership retreat, the hotel’s team works efficiently to deliver a tailored experience that meets your group’s objectives with precision and creativity.
With 1,048 richly-appointed guest rooms, suites and the exclusive Fairmont Gold, group bookings can expect thoughtfully designed layouts, world-class amenities and elegant accommodations. Beyond guest rooms, Fairmont Austin also offers exclusive group wellness experiences from guided yoga classes to recovery sessions designed to help attendees recharge and stay balanced throughout their stay.
Culinary excellence is at the heart of Fairmont Austin which is showcased through custom banquet menus thoughtfully designed to reflect the unique needs and tastes of each group. From energizing breakfast
buffets and wellness-inspired breaks to elegant gala dinners, every menu reflects locally-sourced ingredients and refined presentation. Guests can also experience the hotel’s acclaimed restaurants and bars, each offering a distinct taste of Austin’s dynamic food scene, from modern live fire cuisine to rooftop cocktails overlooking the city skyline.
When the business day wraps, attendees are steps away from Austin’s live music venues, cultural landmarks and outdoor attractions. The hotel’s prime location places guests within walking distance of Rainey Street, Lady Bird Lake and the city’s best dining and nightlife.
In addition to its exceptional facilities and service, Fairmont Austin offers exclusive incentives for group bookings including one complimentary guest room per 40 guest rooms actu-
alized, 20% Off in-house audio-visual services, flexible attrition, preferred parking rates and beyond. This offer is available for new meetings arriving between 2025 and 2029 with 300 or more rooms on peak nights. This offer must be contracted by December 31, 2025, and is subject to blackout dates and availability.
Fairmont Austin’s meeting experience goes beyond space. Every detail, from the flow of the agenda to the flavor of the menu, is thoughtfully curated to ensure your event feels both productive and memorable. Supported by cutting-edge technology, inspired culinary offerings and genuine Texas hospitality, your next gathering will unfold seamlessly against the backdrop of one of the nation’s most dynamic cities.
Contact RFP-AUS@fairmont.com to learn more.
All-Stars Converge on Frisco for the Sports Innovation Forum
The billion-dollar sports marketing revolution is happening NOW—and it’s converging in Frisco, Texas.
Representatives from MLB, NFL, NBA, and WNBA teams are joining forces with industry titans at the Sports Innovation Forum to unlock the explosive potential of sports marketing’s new era. This isn’t just another conference—it’s where the future of fan engagement gets written.
Why Frisco? Why Now?
Professional and global sports are undergoing their most dramatic transformation in decades. New brands are emerging, fan behaviors are evolving at lightning
speed, and engagement strategies that worked yesterday are obsolete today. Smart brands—from insurance giants to luxury powerhouses, from cutting-edge medical companies to premier travel destinations—are recognizing that sports marketing offers unparalleled market penetration and cultural impact.
Set in Frisco, TX—proudly known as “Sports City USA”—this exclusive forum brings together the most innovative minds reshaping the intersection of sports, hospitality, and brand marketing. This is where breakthrough partnerships are born and where forward-thinking destinations and hospitality brands discover how to capture their share of the
sports economy boom.
The Stakes Have Never Been Higher
The sports marketing landscape is worth billions and growing exponentially. Attendees will learn directly from hospitality pioneers, event innovators, and marketing visionaries who are already capitalizing on the seismic shifts transforming how consumers connect with sports organizations and premium brands.
Through high-impact networking events and immersive strategic sessions, this elite community will generate the breakthrough ideas that define the next decade of fan loyalty and destination marketing in
the experience economy.
“We are thrilled to partner with Informa to host the Sports Innovation Forum in Sports City USA this November,” said Josh Dill, Assistant Executive Director of Visit Frisco. “We look forward to welcoming influential leaders in sports to our community to showcase our vibrant and intentional sports ecosystem that actively supports and encourages innovation.”
The question isn’t whether sports marketing will transform your industry—it’s whether you’ll be leading that transformation or watching from the sidelines
Fairmont Austin
Fairmont Austin lobby
National Turkey Federation Presidential Turkey Pardoning
In 1947, President Harry Truman received a live turkey from the National Turkey Federation (NTF). Today the tradition continues with NTF annually bringing two birds to the White House. One receives an official pardon with the birds transported to a university where they reside under the care of veterinarians and poultry science students. Shown here are presidents Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, First Lady Rosalynn Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, Bush, Obama, Trump and Biden.
THE FINAL WORD
Redefining ROI: The Ripple Effect of Inclusion in the Meetings Industry
By Hilina D. Ajakaiye, CDME, Chief Strategy Officer, National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP)
In an industry built on connection, our greatest return on investment isn’t measured in attendance figures, hotel room nights, or sponsorship dollars—it’s measured in the ripple effect of inclusion.
For decades, the meetings and events ecosystem has served as
a microcosm of how communities gather, exchange ideas, and drive economic growth. Yet, as the global environment shifts and the demographics of both attendees and consumers evolve, the definition of ROI must evolve too. It’s time to ask: what does success look like when inclusion is at the center of the equation?
The Real Business Case for Belonging
The traditional metrics—economic impact, visitor spending, tax revenue—tell only part of the story. They capture the “what,” but not the “who.” Who benefits from our industry’s success? Who participates, profits, and prospers from our collective growth?
According to Tourism Economics, the U.S. meetings industry generates over $100 billion in direct spending annually, yet less than a fraction of that flows through Black-, Brown-, or women-owned businesses. The same is true for speaker lineups, production vendors, and supplier contracts. Diversity in the supply chain is not only a matter of representation—it’s a matter of economic optimization. Every inclusive investment multi -
plies community wealth, expands innovation pipelines, and deepens destination authenticity.
Inclusion is not an act of charity. It’s a strategy for competitive advantage. When events reflect the diversity of the world around them, they resonate more deeply, attract broader audiences, and build stronger loyalty. This is especially vital now, as meeting professionals and destinations navigate a cultural landscape where authenticity and social trust are among the most valuable currencies we have.
NCBMP’s Vision: Measuring What Matters
At the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, our mission has always been clear: to advance the collective success of Black professionals in the meetings, hospitality, and tourism industries, while driving economic equity throughout the entire ecosystem.
Our vision extends beyond professional development. We are reimagining how the industry defines impact— one that includes representation, supplier equity, community investment, and leadership access as core KPIs.
Our vision extends beyond professional development. We are reimagining how the industry defines impact—one that includes representation, supplier equity, community investment, and leadership access as core KPIs.
Through partnerships with organizations like PCMA, MPI, IAEE, and Destinations International, NCBMP is working to embed inclusion into the fabric of event strategy—not as a side initiative but as a core growth lever. Our collaborative research, like the forthcoming State of Black Tourism report, quantifies the spending power and influence of Black travelers and meeting professionals. These insights are not symbolic—they are strategic tools to help destinations and organizations make data-driven decisions that align with both purpose and profit.
When destinations embrace inclusion as business strategy, they do more than welcome new visitors—they cultivate new narratives. They position themselves as trusted partners in progress, capable of hosting events that not only fill convention centers
but also fuel transformation.
The Ripple Effect of Inclusion
The ripple effect of inclusion begins with opportunity and expands exponentially outward.
A Black-owned AV company hired for a national conference invests in local youth training programs. A woman-owned catering business earns its first large-scale event contract and hires from the surrounding neighborhood. A convention attendee leaves inspired, returning to their organization to replicate a model of inclusive excellence. These are not isolated outcomes—they are the measurable returns of intentional equity.
Every inclusive decision creates social capital, community wealth, and innovation momentum. And just like any good business investment, these outcomes compound over time.
From Optics to Operations
To fully realize this ripple effect, our industry must move beyond optics and into operations. Inclusion cannot live in a press release; it must be reflected in procurement policies, leadership pipelines, speaker selection, and audience engagement strategies.
This is where accountability meets innovation. Event organizers can embed equity by tracking supplier diversity spend. Convention centers can partner with local workforce programs to develop talent pipelines. Associations can measure the inclusivity of their stages and panels just as rigorously as they measure attendance.
The future of meetings will belong to those who understand that inclusion is not a moral accessory—it’s a metric of excellence.
A Call to Lead Differently Leadership in the meetings industry has always been about vision—seeing not just where people gather, but why they gather. Today, that vision must include a clear-eyed understanding that our industry’s prosperity depends on our ability to reflect the world we serve.
At NCBMP, we believe that inclusion is the ultimate form of innovation. It challenges us to think differently, build differently, and measure differently. It invites us to expand our definition of ROI from “return on investment” to “return on impact.”
Our call to every destination, association, and corporate partner is simple: Be intentional. Be measurable. And be bold enough to redefine success through the lens of belonging.
Because when we do, we won’t just meet—we’ll move industries, economies, and communities forward.
Meet Us in The Heart of the Mid-Atlantic
Meet Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, Baltimore, Howard County, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County—each home to premier meeting sites such as Baltimore, Bethesda, BWI Airport, College Park, Columbia, Gaithersburg, National Harbor, Rockville, Silver Spring, and many more.
Whether you’re seeking a scenic retreat, a city adventure, or a waterfront experience, we’re excited to help you find the perfect destination for your meeting. Maryland — where every event is memorable, and even our crabs say, You’re Welcome.
