VOLUME 44, ISSUE 8
National Parks Conservation Association Joins Anti-Censorship Lawsuit
By Todd McElwee
The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) and a coalition of scientists, historians, and advocates have filed a lawsuit opposing what they say is the Trump administration’s work to erase history and censor science in America’s national parks.
The lawsuit was filed on February 17
in United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts.
NPCA said in 2025 the administration issued an executive order and an accompanying Interior Secretary’s order instructing National Park Service staff to review signage and educational materials at all national parks.
The association said orders sought to censor factual information that
HSMAI Hosts Annual Adrian Awards Celebration
By Jonathan Trager
Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) celebrated the best in travel and hospitality marketing at the annual Adrian Awards Celebration on February 18 at the New York Marriott Marquis.
More than 500 industry leaders and agency executives gathered to honor the campaigns, brands, and marketers shaping the future of travel. Centered on this year’s theme, “The Exceptional Experience,” the evening
highlighted the “powerful, personal, and transformative impact of travel marketing from compelling storytelling and captivating campaigns to purpose-driven initiatives that move the industry forward,” according to the association.
HSMAI introduced a refreshed awards structure that featured 30 entry categories organized by media type: Paid, Earned, Owned, and Multi-Channel/Integrated Marketing. Across each division, Platinum, Gold, Silver,
“disparage Americans past or living (including persons living in colonial times)” or emphasizes matters unrelated to the beauty, abundance, or grandeur of natural features.
Plantiffs are asking for the orders to be vacated and removed materials restored.
Examples provided by NPCA include
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World Olympians Association Provided Connection in Milano - Cortina
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Steven Anderson Announces Retirement as Head of NACDS
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“Palm Springs Loves Canada” Campaign Targeting Would-Be Tourists
Hyatt’s Thomas Pritzker Retires as Executive Chairman
Connection to Jeffrey Epstein Precedes Move
By Todd McElwee
Stating he “exercised terrible judgment in maintaining contact” with Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, Thomas J. Pritzker, Executive Chairman of the Hyatt Hotels Corporation, informed the board February 16 that he will retire, effective immediately, and will not seek re-election to the board at the company’s upcoming Annual Meeting of Stockholders in May. Mark S. Hoplamazian assumes the combined role of Chairman of the Board and CEO.
“I exercised terrible judgment in maintaining contact with them, and there is no excuse for failing to distance myself sooner,” Pritzker said in a statement run by AP. “I condemn the actions and the harm caused by Epstein and Maxwell and I feel deep sorrow for the pain they inflicted on their victims.”
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Hotel Approved Across From Boston’s Menino Convention Center
By Jonathan Trager
Boston officials on February 17 announced plans for a new 15-story urban lifestyle hotel across the street from the Thomas M. Menino Convention and Exhibition Center, a development that will boost hospitality capacity in the booming Seaport District.
The Boston Zoning Commission earlier this month cleared the way for the 438room hotel to be built as the final phase of a mixed-
use campus that already includes the Aloft and Element Boston Seaport hotels.
The project, led by DGH Hotel Partners, a joint venture including Global Hospitality Investment Group, will span about 160,000 square feet. It will include a landscaped entry plaza, an indoor-outdoor lobby bar, and rooftop amenity space, developers said.
“We’re thrilled to bring a new hotel to the heart
B.C. LeDoux, Noble Studios; Stephanie Glanzer, MGM Resorts; and Jarrod Lopiccolo - Noble Studios, celebrate Noble Studios’ HSMAI Platinum Adrian Award for the “Rules to Lake By” campaign with Visit Lake Tahoe. Lopiccolo wrote on LinkedIn he was “stoked” to share the news. HSMAI’s Adrian Awards Celebration was February 18 at the New York Marriott Marquis. Photo by HSMAI
World Olympians Association Provided Connection in Milano - Cortina
By Todd McElwee
While competition was at the heart of the Milano - Cortina Olympic Winter Games, with athletes seeking to stand above their competitors atop the medal podium, camaraderie was at the heart of the World Olympians Association’s (WOA) work in Milano - Cortina.
Throughout the Olympiad’s February 6–22 run in Italy, the association worked to bring competitors together via a variety of social endeavors and did so under the leadership of its first female president.
House parties, watch parties, light collaborative efforts and more were on the agenda during the games. WOA invited Olympians to live and digital watch parties for the Opening Ceremony as well as to a party at the Slovenia House. There’s the OLY House Hub Milan, a gathering spot for athletes, at the city’s train station, complete with a wall to sign. Anyone
in the world could snap a selfie, send WOA an email and receive a photo of them holding the Olympic Torch.
“At the Hub you can meet your fellow Olympians when you are on your way to or from Olympic events in Milan or when you have a few minutes to spare and are feeling sociable,” WOA said.
“You can also get your OLY pin, take a selfie at the selfie wall and sit and chat with other Olympians while watching the day’s action from the Games and having a cup of tea or coffee and something to nibble on.”
In late January, the WOA General Assembly elected two-time Olympic gold medalist skier Pernilla Wiberg of Sweden its first ever female president. WOA said the move echoed the election of Kirsty Coventry as the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) first-ever female president.
A former alpine skiing world champion, Wiberg has vast experience within the Olympic Movement. She was
an IOC Member, member of the IOC Athletes’ Commission, WOA Executive Committee Member and was one of the WOA’s Vice-Presidents until this election.
Wiberg said: “l would like to thank the Olympians of the world for bestowing this great honor on me. Becoming the fifth WOA President is very special, and being the first ever female in the post makes it even more special. I would like to thank the other presidential candidates, James Tomkins and German Glessner, for their part in the WOA’s democratic election process.”
and the IOC.
Ratified in Atlanta in 1996 and based in Fribourg, Switzerland, WOA works with more than 100 National Olympic Associations from across the world
“There are over 100,000 living Olympians throughout the world. Our remit is to support them all, to work for the benefit of all Olympians at all stages of their lives,” WOA said.
Industry Associations Publish Indigenous-Led Tourism Partnership Toolkit
By Jonathan Trager
Destinations International (DI), in collaboration with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) and the American Indigenous Tourism Association (AIT), has announced the publication of the Indigenous-Led Tourism Partnership Toolkit.
The comprehensive resource is designed to guide destination organizations in building “respectful, mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities and advancing tourism systems that are owned, guided and governed by Indigenous Peoples,” according to DI.
The toolkit was unveiled during the 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference in Edmonton, Alberta, February 17–19. It was produced with support from the DI Foundation.
“Indigenous-led tourism is not simply a market opportunity; it is a pathway to community vitality, cultural revitalization and self-determination,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “This toolkit provides destination organizations with a practical framework to approach partnerships with humility, respect and long-term commitment, ensuring Indigenous
voices are not symbolic participants but leaders at the table.”
In the United States, indigenous-owned tourism businesses contributed $11.6 billion to the national economy in 2020 and support more than 210,000 jobs, according to DI.
“Visitors increasingly recognize the profound value of hearing authentic Indigenous stories—rooted in thousands of years of tradition and passed down through generations—especially when shared by Indigenous people from the very communities they represent,” said Sherry L. Rupert, (Paiute/Washoe), CEO of AIT. “When tourism is Indigenous-led, it fosters mutual respect and understanding while strengthening cultural pride and preservation. Ultimately, this resource helps ensure that tourism grows in a way that uplifts Indigenous voices, priorities and futures.”
“This toolkit provides destination organizations with a practical framework to approach partnerships with humility, respect and long-term commitment, ensuring Indigenous voices are not symbolic participants but leaders at the table.”
In Canada, indigenous tourism generated $1.3 billion in GDP in 2023, supporting nearly 54,700 jobs, according to DI.
“Indigenous tourism must always be Indigenous-led and grounded in our communities’ values, governance and vision for the future,” said Keith Henry, President & CEO of ITAC. “This toolkit is an important step in helping desti-
nation organizations understand how to engage with Indigenous communities respectfully and effectively, while supporting economic reconciliation, cultural revitalization and long-term partnership built on trust.”
The toolkit outlines actionable guidance for destination organizations, including the following:
• Building respectful and culturally aware relationships grounded in research, humility, and listening
• Recognizing Indigenous peoples as rights-holders and honoring sovereignty and governance structures
• Supporting Indigenous-defined tourism readiness through self-determined planning and capacity building
• Formalizing partnerships through tools such as Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs)
• Embedding Indigenous engagement across marketing, procurement, governance, and visitor services
• Developing visitor education
strategies that promote responsible and culturally aware travel
The publication also highlights accreditation models such as “The Original Original Accreditation Program” created by indigenous tourism operators and initiated by ITAC. The program is now being adapted by AIT for Indigenous tourism businesses in the United States and in New Zealand by New Zealand Māori Tourism (NZMT). Destination Original Indigenous Tourism is working to develop a global stream of the program worldwide.
The Indigenous-Led Tourism Partnership Toolkit “calls on destination organizations to align governance, marketing, procurement, crisis response and community engagement practices with Indigenous leadership and priorities, ensuring tourism reflects the full identity and future of place,” DI stated.
Find the full toolkit here
HOTS Wild Wings Lawsuit… An Illinois judge has ruled against a Chicago man who sued Buffalo Wild Wings (BWW), alleging the chain’s use of the term “boneless wings” was deceptive marketing. Aimen Halim filed a lawsuit against BWW in March 2023 focused on “Buffalo Wild Wings’ Boneless Wings,” UPI reported. The suit alleged the products’ name misleads customers into thinking they are made of deboned chicken wing meat, rather than fried chicken breast meat. U.S. District Judge John Tharp Jr. issued a ruling on February 17 rejecting Halim’s complaint. “Boneless wings are not a niche product for which a consumer would need to do extensive research to figure out the truth. Instead, ‘boneless wings’ is a common term that has existed for over two decades,” Tharp wrote in his ruling. HOTS wonders whether Halim
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
Publisher-Emeritus Ross E. Heller ross@usaenews.com
Publisher James Heller james@usaenews.com
Associate Publisher Todd McElwee todd@usaenews.com
Managing Editor Jonathan Trager jon@usaenews.com
Hotel Editor Jordan Bradley jordan@usaenews.com
Creative Director Diane Nichols dkn@usaenews.com
Graphic Designer Danielle Erbe Marketing
To
Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com usaenews.com
HOTS HOTS
has any lawsuits pending against McDonald’s or Wendy’s for not including ham in their burgers.
HOTS Gold for Lead… Osaka, Japan, has received a hefty gift of gold bars worth 560 million yen ($3.6 million) from an anonymous donor asking for its specific use: to fix the Japanese city’s dilapidated water pipes. AP reports the gold bars weighing 21 kilograms (46 pounds) in total were given to the Osaka City Waterworks Bureau in November by the donor who wants to help improve aging water pipes, Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama told reporters on February 19. “It’s a staggering amount and I was speechless,” Yokoyama said. “Tackling aging water pipes requires a huge investment, and I cannot thank enough for the donation.” The mayor said his city will respect the donor’s wishes and use the gift to improve waterworks projects. HOTS knows properly working water and sewer is worth its weight in gold.
ASAE Backs Nonprofit Exemption from Washington State’s Live Presentation
By Todd McElwee
ASAE issued an Advocacy Alert on February 18 focused on Washington State’s taxing of live presentations, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and courses delivered either in person or virtually. The state’s legislature is now considering a technical corrections bill in which a nonprofit exemption is included.
A letter signed by Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE President & CEO, ASAE, and addressed to Washington Speaker of the House Laurie Jinkins, detailed
Pritzker
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AP reported there are multiple emails between Pritzker and Epstein included in a cache of Epstein-related documents released by the Department of Justice. Several detail attempts for dinner meet ups and invitations to various functions.
Pritzker has served as a member of the board and as Executive Chairman since 2004. His company bio notes he was CEO from 2004–2006 and named President of Hyatt Corporation in 1980.
“I have been a proud member of the Hyatt family since the beginning of Hyatt,” said Pritzker. “As I said in my letter to the Board, it has been both an honor and one of the great experiences of my life to have contributed to Hyatt’s growth. Hyatt is well positioned for the future, and I have great confidence in
concerns with the tax and shared the economic significance of associations to the Apple State.
“Associations rely on live presentations and events to deliver on their core mission,” the correspondence said. “Events give members direct access to peers who share their professional challenges, building relationships and a sense of community that drive long-term engagement. They provide concentrated professional development, continuing education credits, and peer-to-peer knowledge exchange that members cannot get
Mark, our leadership team, and the Board as they continue to build on our strong foundation.”
“Tom’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping Hyatt’s strategy and long-term growth, and we thank him for his service and dedication to Hyatt,” said Richard Tuttle, Chair of the Board’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. “The Board has engaged in thoughtful succession planning, and we are confident that Mark’s deep knowledge of Hyatt’s business, strong relationships with owners and colleagues, and proven track record as CEO of nearly two decades positions him well to serve as Chairman and continue driving Hyatt’s long-term success.”
Hyatt said Hoplamazian was appointed to the board in November 2006 and named President and CEO of Hyatt Hotels Corporation that December. Previously, he served as
Tax
elsewhere. A sales tax on these activities undermines the ability of nonprofit organizations to serve their members and the public.”
Effective October 1, 2025, Washington extended its retail sales tax to most live presentations, regardless of format. ASAE shared that attendees’ locations determine taxability, not the presenter or host organization. Virtual events count, even if the host is from another state.
ASAE noted if any attendees are located in Washington, the event
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President of The Pritzker Organization, LLC, the principal financial and investment advisor to certain Pritzker family business interests. Hoplamazian serves on the Executive Committee of the American Hotel & Lodging Association, Board of Directors of Brand USA and the Executive Committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and look forward to serving as Chairman,” said Hoplamazian. “Tom’s decision reflects his stewardship and strong commitment to Hyatt over his many decades of service. Looking ahead, we remain focused on executing our strategy for long-term growth, advancing care for our colleagues, delivering meaningful experiences for our guests, and driving performance for owners and value for our stockholders.”
Michelle Mason (center), President & CEO of ASAE, spoke at the Georgia Society for Association Executives (GSAE) Quarterly Luncheon on February 18 at the Brookhaven City Centre. Mason is pictured here with Mary J. Wheatley (left), IOM, CAE, CEO of the National Scleroderma Foundation and ASAE Board Member, and Jewel Hazelton, Executive Director, GSAE.
NEWS
Steven Anderson Announces Retirement as Head of NACDS
By Todd McElwee
Steven C. Anderson, FASAE, CAE, IOM, the longtime President & CEO of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) and a past Chair of ASAE, will retire on December 31, concluding 20 years of service.
“It has been the honor of my professional life to serve as President & CEO of NACDS,” Anderson said. “For more than two decades, my purpose has been to help strengthen and advance pharmacy—so it can continue to serve communities, support American families, and play its essential role in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.”
Anderson continued: “I am deeply grateful to the NACDS Board of Directors for its partnership, leadership, and trust over the years. I had the privilege of working with multiple NACDS Boards throughout my tenure, and that collaboration was central to everything we achieved. NACDS has always been at its strongest when the Board, our members, and our extremely talented staff team aligned around a shared mission.”
Anderson took the helm of the association in 2007. NACDS called his leadership “transformational” and said he strengthened its institutional infrastructure and long-term viability, provided stability and forward-thinking leadership during the 2008 financial crisis and Covid-19 pandemic and
NPCA
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Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia’s dismantling of the President’s House exhibit, which told the story of enslaved people at George Washington’s home. Journalists with the Philadelphia Inquirer captured video of staff removing signage with crowbars. At Maine’s Acadia National Park rangers removed signs about climate change, intense rain, and hotter park temperatures at the Cadillac Mountain and Great Meadow areas.
“In filing this litigation, we are taking a stand for the soul of our national parks,” said Alan Spears, Sr. Director for Cultural Resources, NPCA. “Censoring science and erasing America’s history at national parks are direct threats to everything these amazing places, and our country, stand for. Government censorship in our national parks violates the very ideals our country was built on. Today, we rise to defend the brave, hardworking rangers who come to parks every day to share American history and science with millions of visitors from around the world. Our rangers are dedicated public servants
bolstered the foundation.
Rick Gates, Chair of the NACDS Board of Directors and Sr. Vice President and Chief Pharmacy Officer of Walgreens, said: “Steve Anderson’s leadership of NACDS over the past two decades has been extraordinary. He took the helm at a challenging moment, and rebuilt NACDS into one of the strongest, most respected healthcare trade associations in the nation.
Under Steve’s leadership, NACDS became financially strong, strategically focused, and nationally influential. During his tenure, pharmacies moved from being underappreciated in the healthcare system to being recognized as essential, frontline providers of care in communities across America.”
Gates emphasized Anderson’s recent role in enacting pharmacy benefit manager (PBM) reform into law.
“Steve’s leadership helped bring long-overdue transparency and accountability to the PBM market,” Gates said. “These efforts represent a major victory for pharmacies and patients alike.”
Anderson served as Chairman of ASAE from 2021–2022. He’s an ASAE Fellow and emceed multiple editions of the Summit Awards.
“Congratulations to Steve Anderson on an extraordinary career and lasting contributions to the association community,” Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO, ASAE, told USAE
“I’ve had the privilege of seeing
who signed up to protect awe-inspiring landscapes and fascinating history, not hide it from the public.”
Co-plaintiffs include the Association of National Park Rangers, Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, American Association for State and Local History, Union of Concerned Scientists, and Society for Experiential Graphic Design. engagement.
Skye Perryman, President & CEO of Democracy Forward, which is representing the plantiffs, said: “America’s national parks are a living classroom, telling the stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and hope so that every visitor can learn our history and the world around us. You cannot tell the story of America without recognizing both the beauty and the tragedy of our history. You cannot truly love America without understanding our country’s true history and what it teaches about the country we must work together to build and the country that we can be.”
He added the effort to erase history and science in our national parks violates federal law and is “a disgrace that neither honors our country’s legacy nor its future.”
Steve’s leadership up close - he co-chaired the search committee that hired me and served as my first Board Chair at ASAE. From day one, his wisdom, steadiness and encouragement made a meaningful difference in my transition and in ASAE’s momentum.”
She continued: “I also deeply admire the way Steve led NACDS through the COVID-19 pandemic, helping elevate the critical role of pharmacies, advance sound policy, and spotlight the extraordinary service of pharmacy teams vaccinating communities across the country. Steve has always believed in the power of associations to improve lives and strengthen society, and he has lived that belief through his dedication to ASAE’s Summit Awards Dinner, his generosity, and his leadership. I’m grateful for his partnership, his counsel, and his friendship, and I know our entire community joins me in celebrating him as he begins this next chapter.”
Steven C. Anderson
Cornell, Northwestern, Delaware and Elon.
Anderson’s NACDS bio notes three terms on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and former Secretary of State General Colin L. Powell naming Anderson to the Board of Trustees of America’s Promise –The Alliance for Youth. He has been involved with a variety colleges and universities, including Wake Forrest,
Mark Griffin, President & CEO of Lewis Drug, NACDS Past Chair, and longest serving board member, said: “Under Steve’s leadership, NACDS became a world-class organization— built on a talented, mission-driven team and a culture that consistently delivered results across policy, advocacy, media relations and industry convening. He elevated NACDS’ ability to bring together the full pharmacy sector through best-in-class meetings and events that shaped dialogue, strengthened partnerships, and advanced the industry.”
The Mecosta County Visitors Bureau in Michigan presented a check for $15,000 to the newly created Big Rapids Regional Chamber earlier this month at the CVB office in Big Rapids. Darren Iozia/Pioneer photo: bigrapidsnews.com
Adrian Awards
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and Bronze honors were awarded, with Platinum recipients announced live at the Celebration. From those Platinum winners, Best of Show honorees were then unveiled on stage, recognizing the most exceptional work in each media category.
“Each year, the Adrian Awards remind us that travel marketing is about far more than promotion—it’s about connection, emotion, and impact,” said Brian Hicks, President & CEO of HSMAI. “This year’s honorees delivered bold ideas and breakthrough storytelling that elevated brands and resonated deeply with audiences. We are proud to celebrate the marketers and organizations who continue to push our industry forward and redefine what exceptional truly looks like.”
Three trailblazing industry leaders were awarded the Robert A. Gilbert Award for Career Achievement in Commercial Strategy: Mary Casey, hospitality and business events leader; Jeff Doane, Chief Commercial Officer at Omni Hotels & Resorts; and André Fournier, Chief Commer-
Louisville’s
cial Officer at CoralTree Hospitality. Named in tribute to Robert A. Gilbert, who served as HSMAI’s President & CEO from 1995 to 2024, the award recognizes individuals whose impact extends far beyond performance metrics, advancing the profession, strengthening teams, and elevating the hospitality industry as a whole.
“Commercial strategy today is more connected than ever, and these
Humana Building Transforming into 1,000-Room Hotel
By Todd McElwee
A staple of Louisville’s skyline is being repurposed.
Formerly the home of its namesake insurance firm, the 417-foot Humana Building is being transformed into a 1,000-room convention-style hotel via a $600-700 million redevelopment.
Hank Hillebrand, President of Poe Companies, a local developer, said crews are expected to break ground in 2027 with an opening likely in the next three to four years, WHAS 11 said.
Louisville Tourism said plans call for multiple ballrooms, more than 100,000-square-feet of meeting space and multiple food and beverage op-
tions. The project includes a second interconnected tower with addition event space.
“Inventory means growth opportunity for us,” said Doug Bennett, Executive Vice President of Louisville Tourism. “It repositions Louisville in a stronger, competitive position to compete with Indy, Columbus, Cincinnati, St. Louis, some of our A-list competitive cities.”
Humana announced it was relocating from the Humana Building, which was built in 1985, to another location on Louisville in 2024, WHAS 11 reported. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg discussed the project during his State of the City address earlier this month.
honorees reflect the very best of that evolution,” said Brian Hicks, President & CEO of HSMAI. “Mary, Jeff, and André have each built careers defined by leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to moving our industry forward. Their impact is felt not only in results delivered, but in the people they’ve developed and the standards they’ve helped set for the future.”
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of Boston’s Seaport District, across from the Convention Center,” said Kevin Colket, founder and CEO of Global Hospitality Investment Group.
“We look forward to expanding our presence in Boston next to the Aloft and Element Hotels and completing the vision of a vibrant, mixed-use hotel and retail campus that supports the convention center and enhances the vibrancy of D Street.”
Developers say the hotel will be sustainably designed and constructed to achieve LEED Gold certification as an all-electric facility. The zoning approval followed a unanimous vote in January by the Boston Planning Department’s board.
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may trigger a Washington sales tax obligation, even if the event is hosted elsewhere and if an association hosts events in Washington, live presentations may now be subject to sales tax at the point of sale.
ASAE said the policy could create new administrative and financial burdens for associations and that it has received significant concern from members about the operational and financial impact of this policy, especially for virtual education.
In addition the HSMAI Foundation hosted a Silent Auction that raised more than $15,000 for programs that support the future of hospitality talent, including student scholarships, faculty partnerships, industry research, and Rising Leaders programs. Find more information about the Adrian Awards and specific honorees here
The new hotel will bring the total number of guest rooms to about 968 in the three-hotel campus, which is owned by the joint venture under a long-term land lease with the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority. Developers and city officials have said expanding lodging options within walking distance of the facility will be critical to attracting larger conventions and meetings in the future.
Construction timelines haven’t yet been announced, and developers still must secure final permits and financing before breaking ground.
“The tourism and hospitality industry is very strong here, and we’re excited to bring a new lodging experience for guests, significant economic activity, and additional jobs to the City and Commonwealth,” Colket said.
HB 2257, a technical corrections bill, includes a nonprofit exemption for live presentations. It passed the House Finance Committee on February 4 and now is under review by the House Rules Committee. The Senate passed its own legislation amending the retail sales tax and did not include a nonprofit exemption. ASAE said the Washington legislative session is expected to end in mid-March.
ASAE research found that 487 associations operate in Washington State, supporting 7,080 jobs, generating $428.8 million in wages, and contributing $453.3 million in state and local taxes.
Mary Casey Jeff Doane
André Fournier
“Palm Springs Loves Canada” Campaign Targeting Would-Be Tourists
By Jonathan Trager
If you’re traveling through Palm Springs, California, you’ll likely see overtures toward our neighbors to the north, part of an ongoing campaign that reassures Canadian travelers they remain welcome in the desert resort community despite political tension created by the U.S. administration.
The effort—summed up locally with banners and signage reading “Palm Springs Loves Canada”—is visible along major thoroughfares in downtown Palm Springs and at key visitor hubs such as the airport. The initiative is designed to send a clear message of appreciation to Canadian tourists, a group that historically has been a major contributor to the local economy.
Palm Springs attracts an estimated 300,000 Canadians each year—many of them “snowbirds” who escape Canada’s winter months for extended stays.
“We love and value our Canadian visitors—they’re part of the heartbeat of Greater Palm Springs and an essential part of both our community and economy,” said Colleen Pace, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Visit Greater Palm Springs. “Their warmth, loyalty, and spirit of adventure enrich our destination, and we look forward to welcoming them back each year.
This campaign is our way of expressing gratitude for a longstanding connection and friendship.”
The campaign initially launched in spring of last year, at a time when Canadian travel to the United States had declined, with some airlines reducing seasonal flight service and anecdotal reports of Canadian visitors reconsidering travel plans.
While not formally tied to any state or federal tourism initiatives, the campaign here mirrors broader efforts in California and other U.S. destinations to maintain strong international visitation from Canada—one of the most important inbound markets for American tourism.
Tourism advocates in Palm Springs remain optimistic that a concerted effort to embrace Canadian visitors and emphasize the region’s renowned hospitality and attractions will help stabilize and grow travel numbers. They’ve stressed that welcoming gestures combined with targeted promotions can help reinforce longstanding relationships between Palm Springs and its Canadian guests.
Visit Palm Springs noted that within the next couple of weeks, the campaign will be expanded to an additional nine cities—Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and Coachella—as part of a consistent regional effort.
A road sign welcoming Canadians as part of Visit Palm Springs’ “Palm Springs Loves Canada” campaign.
Chief Executive Officer
Do You Make Connections Matter?
You Might Be WTCA’s Next CEO.
In business and at the World Trade Centers Association, connections are everything.
WTCA, a network of iconic buildings, organizations, and professionals that fosters global business, seeks a dynamic, collaborative, and mission-driven CEO to partner with its board to advance awareness of the important roles that WTCs play in their communities around the world.
Who WTCA Seeks
• Strategic, innovative, financially astute executive
• Capable brand steward
• Global growth champion
• Cultural leader: fosters transparency, accountability, and inclusivity
Key Responsibilities
• Collaborates with the board and staff on the strategic plan
• Leads WTCA brand awareness and global connection and expansion
• Develops strategic partnerships
• Partners with the board to drive growth and diversified revenue
• Prioritizes member engagement including creating market opportunities for them
Who Is WTCA?
WTCA is the only association with the exclusive rights to license “World Trade Center” and its “WTC” brands to real estate developers, businesses, and communities worldwide. With more than 300 World Trade Center locations in nearly 100 countries, WTCA provides a portfolio of branded offices and commercial real estate, alongside an extensive suite of trade services for tenants, thereby linking them with the rest of the association’s global network.
FOR CONFIDENTIAL
Email your resume and cover letter to WTCACEOSearch@vettedsolutions.com or call +1 202 544 4749
The World Trade Centers Association has engaged Vetted Solutions as its executive recruitment partner for this search.
Lancaster County, Pennsylvania: Big Meeting Energy with a Refreshingly Authentic Sense of Place
In today’s meetings landscape, planners are looking for destinations that deliver more than square footage. They want ease of access, a strong value proposition, flexible venues, and a setting that energizes attendees, without overcomplicating logistics or inflating budgets. Lancaster County, Pennsylvania checks every box, pairing professional meeting infrastructure with a memorable sense of place that attendees genuinely want to experience.
Located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic, Lancaster County offers the rare blend of urban walkability, countryside charm, and high-touch hospitality. Just a short drive from major metro areas and within reach of multiple airports, Lancaster makes it easy for regional
and fly-in attendees to arrive, connect, and settle into an experience that feels both productive and refreshing. Whether you’re planning an association conference, corporate retreat, board meeting, training, incentive program, or trade show, Lancaster County provides the space, service, and personality to elevate your event from standard to standout.
Convenience Planners Love: Access, Walkability, and Attendee-Friendly Logistics
Lancaster County’s accessibility is one of its strongest meeting advantages. Planners can draw attendance from major population centers including Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and New York City. The destination is also supported by nearby regional and international airports, along with Amtrak rail service into Lancaster City, making Lancaster a realistic and attractive option for both regional
meetings and multi-state events.
Once attendees arrive, Lancaster delivers something increasingly hard to find: a truly walkable downtown environment that supports meetings without requiring constant transportation. Lancaster City’s compact downtown footprint enables groups to easily move between meeting spaces, hotels, restaurants, shopping, galleries, and nightlife. This walkability enhances attendee satisfaction, reduces transportation costs, and simplifies the overall planning process.
A Strong Value Proposition: High Quality Without the Big-City Price Tag
One of Lancaster County’s most compelling advantages is value. Meeting budgets are under pressure, and Lancaster offers planners the ability to deliver an elevated attendee experience at a more manageable cost than many primary market cities. From venue rental rates to hotel packages, Lancaster provides competitive pricing, exceptional service levels, and strong ROI, a combination that resonates with meeting planners seeking both quality and fiscal responsibility. This value extends beyond the meeting room: attendees enjoy a destination rich with dining, culture, shopping, and countryside experiences that feel premium and authentic, yet accessible.
For associations and corporate groups alike, Lancaster County makes it possible to deliver a meeting experience that feels like a reward, without pushing budgets into the red.
Venues That Flex: Convention Centers, Full-Service Hotels, and Creative Spaces
Lancaster County offers a wide range of meeting spaces that accommodate everything from intimate leadership retreats to citywide conferences. At the center of Lancaster City is the Lancaster County Convention Center, a modern facility designed for high performing events. Connected to the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, this integrated meetings campus supports conferences and conventions with flexible event space, ballrooms, breakout rooms, exhibit capabilities, and professional production support. The Marriott adds full-service convenience, comfortable guest rooms, and the kind of service infrastructure planners rely on.
But Lancaster’s venue portfolio doesn’t stop at traditional facilities. A growing trend in meetings is creating “only-here” experiences events that could not happen anywhere else. Lancaster County shines in this category,
offering planners access to distinctive venues that add character and creativity to programs, including:
• Historic and heritage venues with architectural charm and storytelling appeal
• Theaters and performance spaces that bring energy to keynotes and awards nights
• Museums and cultural institutions that offer built-in programming and memorable receptions
• Art galleries and boutique venues perfect for VIP gatherings, sponsor events, and networking receptions
• Barn-inspired venues and rustic-chic event spaces that deliver countryside ambiance with modern amenities
This variety gives planners the flexibility to design an agenda that feels fresh, engaging, and uniquely Lancaster.
Rural Retreats and Offsite Experiences: Team Building in the Countryside
One of Lancaster County’s greatest assets is its ability to support both structured meetings and restorative downtime. Beyond the city, the region’s scenic countryside creates the perfect setting for retreats, leadership summits, and incentive-style programs.
Planners can incorporate offsite experiences that build team connection and enhance attendee satisfaction, such as:
• Farm-to-table culinary experiences and chef-led dinners
• Guided countryside tours and heritage experiences
• Artisan workshops and maker experiences
• Scenic outdoor activities, trails, and wellness programming
• Seasonal events and markets that
add local flavor
Lancaster’s rural offerings make it easy to build a meeting agenda with balance—combining serious work with experiences that recharge attendees and strengthen relationships.
Food, Culture, and Nightlife: An Attendee Experience That Drives Engagement
Lancaster City has emerged as a destination with surprising culinary depth and creative energy. Attendees can enjoy a dining scene that includes everything from elevated farm-to-table restaurants to casual local favorites, coffee shops, breweries, and cocktail lounges . This matters more than ever: the attendee experience outside sessions is a key driver of registration, satisfaction, and repeat attendance. Lancaster’s mix of culture, cuisine, shopping, and entertainment creates built-in engagement opportunities for attendees and provides planners with strong options for dine-arounds, hosted receptions, and spouse/guest programs. In the surrounding county, visitors can explore the region’s renowned Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, including iconic countryside scenery, markets, artisan communities, and cultural attractions. These experiences aren’t just enjoyable, they’re differentiators. Lancaster offers meeting planners something many destinations can’t: authenticity.
Service That Feels Personal: Hospitality and Support for Planners
Lancaster County is known for hospitality that’s warm, genuine, and highly service-oriented. For planners, this translates into something invaluable: reliable partnerships and smooth execution.
For more information, please visit us at https://www.discoverlancaster. com/meetings/
Goat Yoga Image: Woman enjoys a relaxing and fun afternoon of Goat Yoga at the Amish Farm and House in Lancaster, PA.
Marriott Exchange Sunset Image: Colleagues enjoy an evening of talking, drinking, and dining at The Exchange, a high-end rooftop bar in Lancaster, PA.
