AHLA Asks LA Mayor to Veto Wage Hikes for Tourism Workers
By Jordan Bradley
The American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) has written a formal letter on May 20 to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass advocating for the veto of a proposed tourism wage ordinance that would increase hospitality workers’ wages to $30 per hour by 2028.
In the proposed ordinance, hotel
workers would see a 48% hike in minimum wage rates over three years and airport employees would see a 56% increase.
In addition, the ordinance would require hotels and airport businesses to contribute $8.35 per hour to employee healthcare by July 2026.
The proposal passed the Los Angeles City Council on May 14 by a 12-3 vote.
IMEX Frankfurt Enjoys Record Showing
By Todd McElwee
The 2025 edition of IMEX Frankfurt was the largest yet.
Closing on May 22 at Messe Frankfurt, the 21st installment welcomed more than 13,000 global attendees, including 4,000-plus meetings and events buyers. The show floor featured nearly 3,000 exhibiting companies.
North of 67,000 prescheduled meetings occurred—a 10% increase compared to 2024.
“Meeting people in person is priceless,” said
Heledd Williams, Head of Business Events at Meet In Wales. “Nothing can replace it. Being here makes you feel things, it sparks unique ideas, you feel part of a community. We collaborate and share our challenges. In that way, our industry is very unique.”
IMEX Frankfurt encompassed more than 200 educational sessions within the Inspiration Hub and across the show. Organizers said they were designed to supercharge business meetings and networking. Learning was spread
The AHLA argues that the ordinance could further devastate Los Angeles’ already struggling tourism economy, which is grappling with the aftermath of “devastating wildfires, a prolonged international travel slowdown, and a lagging pandemic recovery,” the letter reads.
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ASAE
Healthcare Associations Sue Government Over Deleted Health Data & Websites
By Todd McElwee
Nine co-plaintiffs, including multiple healthcare associations, sued Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, and the federal government on May 20 to stop the deletion of public health and science data.
The suit was filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. Co-plaintiffs say that since January, the executive branch has deleted dozens, if not more, websites that physicians, nurses, healthcare providers, scientists and public health professionals rely upon, removing data on a wide range of medical topics.
The suit would require the administration to restore deleted websites and stop any further removal of public health data.
“The unannounced and unprecedented deletion of these federal webpages and datasets came as a shock to the medical and scientific communities, which had come to rely
AAF Sues Orlando Hotel Over Canceling 2023 Cultural Event
By Jordan Bradley
The Arab America Foundation (AAF) filed a lawsuit alleging unlawful discrimination and breach of contract on May 19 against the DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld in Orlando and Hilton Hotels in federal court for canceling its annual summit scheduled to be held at the hotel in November 2023. According to the filing, the AAF and the hotel’s owner, AWH Orlando Property, entered into a “Group Event Contract” on July 14, 2023,
to host the 2023 Annual AAF Summit, also called the Connect Arab America: Empowerment Summit, from November 3–5, 2023. The suit noted that Hilton also canceled the 2023 National Conference planned by the U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights that had been scheduled for October 27–29, 2023, at the Hilton Post Oak Houston in Texas “due to purported ‘escalating security concerns.’”
It’s unclear why both of these events had been scheduled to be held within
Ray Bloom, Chairman, IMEX Group; Carina Bauer, CEO, IMEX Group; and their staff welcome attendees of IMEX Frankfurt to Messe Frankfurt. The show ran from May 20–22. Photo by IMEX Group
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HOTS Hoppin’ Good Time… Someone’s pet kangaroo in Durango, Colorado, got loose and was bouncing around the mountain town for a second time last week, according to the Associated Press. On May 19, Irwin the pet kangaroo escaped his home and bounced in and out of traffic until local police were called to intervene. Commander Nick Stasi said Irwin first got loose last fall. At the time, the marsupial was young and small enough to be bamboozled into a large bag that was similar in size and appearance to a mother kangaroo’s pouch. But Irwin
USAE
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
Publisher-Emeritus Ross E. Heller ross@usaenews.com
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Senior Vice President George Roman george@georgeromanmedia.com
HOTS HOTS
has grown considerably, Stasi said, and this time “that technique wasn’t going to work. The officers were debating they they needed to lasso it or what the plan was.” Enter Officer Shane Garrison, who Stasi described as a “farm boy” with previous experience handling large animals. Garrison was able to wrangle Irwin into the back of a police truck and deliver him back to his home. HOTS was shocked to learn that while kangaroos are odd choices in house companions, they are, in fact, legal to own in Colorado. What, a dog wasn’t exciting enough for residents in Durango? HOTS wonders.
HOTS Labor of Love… A news anchor on an Albany, New York, station went into labor early in the morning of May 21—and went on to anchor the station’s morning show two hours later, UPI reports. Olivia Jaquith, a morning anchor on the WRGB-TV CBS6 station anchored the 6 a.m. news broadcast after her water broke two hours prior. Jaquith’s co-anchor, Julia Dunn, opened the broadcast with: “We do have some breaking news,
literally. Olivia’s water has broke.”
The station’s news director, Stone Grissom, congratulated Jaquith and her husband following the broadcast, adding: “Olivia has met every stage of this journey with grace and grit. Today was no exception. Olivia’s passion for storytelling, love for her
hometown, and commitment to our viewers have always been evident.” Jaquith anchored the entire morning broadcast, and then promptly went to the hospital. HOTS thinks this just goes to show how badass these women are and sends many congratulations to Jaquith and her new bundle of joy!
Sands and TMCF Select Students for Hospitality Program
By Jordan Bradley
The Las Vegas Sands and Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) announced on May 15 the students who will be participating in the third annual Sands Hospitality Immersion Program this June.
The 15 students selected for this year’s immersion program are juniors and seniors from 13 historical Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and are pursuing degrees in a range of majors, including accounting, business administration, chemistry, computer information systems, computer science, hospitality and tourism management, and supply chain management.
“We’re fortunate to partner with
Las Vegas Sands on this hospitality immersion. It’s an exceptional opportunity for our students to build skills, confidence, expand their networks and create pathways to leadership in the industry,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, President and CEO of TMCF. “We look forward to continued partnership with Sands to provide this awesome experience.”
The tudents participating in the immersion program are Jason Adams, Dillard University; Boluwatife Adewusi, Alabama State University; Naadiya Al-Salam, Virginia State University; Manish Bhusal, Fisk University; Cassandre Bossicot, Bethune-Cookman University; Briana Brewer, Chicago State University;
Dhindsa Davis, Morris Brown College; NyJaiha DeBourg, Morgan State University; Karl Lerma, Virginia State University; Zion Simmons, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania; Kenneth Stevenson, Morehouse College; Celine Trombi, Delaware State University; Amiya Tucker, Tennessee State University; Rae’Sheeda White, University of the Virgin Islands; and Jazmen Wilkerson, Morgan State University.
The Sands Hospitality Immersion Program was created as part of the Sands industry education and workforce development initiatives. It was curated this year by the Harrah College of Hospitality’s Sands Center for Professional Development at the
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Explore St. Louis Says Destination Open for Business Following Tornado
By Jonathan Trager
Explore St. Louis issued a public statement on May 20 regarding the EF3 tornado that struck the St. Louis region a few days earlier.
The organization noted the city’s primary visitor attractions, restaurants, hotels and convention venues remained open and operational. America’s Center was hosting the 2025 GEOINT Symposium, the nation’s largest gathering of geospatial intelligence professionals, when the organization provided its response.
The tornado grew to be a mile wide
as it ripped across northern parts of St. Louis at 55 mph, according to the National Weather Service. Five people were killed in the severe weather.
Brad Dean, President & CEO of Explore St. Louis, said the resiliency of the city has been on display.
“As the entire community rallies to support those affected and mourn the loss of life, our city continues to move forward,” said Dean. “We stand with those impacted by the storm and know that the hardest-hit areas will take time to recover. While the recovery effort moves forward, the vast majority of the city’s tourism and hospitality
ecosystem remains strong, open and eager to serve guests. By visiting St. Louis, you’re not just experiencing our vibrant culture, you’re playing a role in our recovery.”
St. Louis Lambert International Airport and major transportation routes remain fully operational, ensuring continued access for visitors and business travelers, Explore St. Louis stated.
The organization also encouraged visitors and locals to verify hours of operation directly with businesses as cleanup and restoration continued in specific areas.
Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO, ASAE, and ASAE Chair Heidi Brock, President & CEO, American Forest & Paper Association, presented Michael Dominguez, FASAE, President & CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI), the 2025 Global Association Visionary Award during the IMEX Gala Dinner on May 21.
By Jordan Bradley
Miami Convention Center Hotel Breaks Ground
The Grand Hyatt Miami Beach held a sunny groundbreaking ceremony on May 16, marking the beginning of a new phase for the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC).
The 800-guest room Miami Beach hotel will be directly connected to the convention center when it opens in late 2027, according to the property’s developers Terra and Turnberry and the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB).
The hotel’s development will “help activate a more walkable Convention Center District” and offer leisure travel guests easier access to area shopping, dining and the local arts district, GMCVB said.
“The groundbreaking of Grand Hyatt Miami Beach marks a pivotal milestone in the transformation of the Convention Center District,” said David Martin, CEO, Terra and Jackie Soffer, Chairman and CEO, Turnberry. “It fulfills a vision years in the making – an iconic, connected hotel that serves the meetings industry while strengthening the local economy and community. We’re proud to bring this landmark project to life in partnership with the world-renowned Hyatt brand.”
Among the Grand Hyatt Miami Beach’s 800 guest rooms will be 52 luxury suites with panoramic views
of Miami Beach. Four of the hotel’s floors will be dedicated for meeting and ballroom space “to complement the MBCC,” the GMCVB said. Guests will also be able to access the convention center via a climate-controlled skybridge.
“Grand Hyatt Miami Beach is one of Hyatt’ most anticipated openings globally and is a defining example of how we continue to expand in highgrowth, high-demand destination,” said Pete Sears, Group President, Americas, Hyatt. “This hotel will not only serve as a gateway to the energy and culture of Miami Beach but will also help elevate the destination’s standing as a premier global destination for meetings and events. We’re proud to collaborate with Terra, Turnberry, the City of Miami Beach and Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau to bring to life this landmark project that captures the energy, creativity and spirit that define this iconic destination.”
Upon completion, the Grand Hyatt Miami Beach will also offer guests a rooftop resort-style pool deck, a signature restaurant, a bar and retail spaces, and access to pedestrian-friendly outdoor spaces and bike-sharing stations. The area will also see improved transit access.
According to GMCVB, the hotel will help enhance the city of Miami’s
City officials, developers and hospitality executives gathered in Miami Beach, Florida on May 16 to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Grand Hyatt Miami Beach, a forthcoming convention center hotel to be connected with the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC). Pictured from left to right: David Whitaker, President & Chief Executive Officer, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCBV), Sharon Niemczyk, Associate Managing Director, Conferences, Virtual Events & Meetings, NACHA; Lisa Astorga, Director of Meetings, International Society in Thrombosis and Haemostasis; Carol Motley, Sr. Vice President Convention Sales & Services, GMCVB; Diane Vidoni, COO, eMerge; Kristin Mirabal, VP of Event Operations, Arc Network; and Freddie Peterson, General Manager, (MBCC).
meetings and conventions offerings.
“This is a defining moment for our convention and trade show eco system,” said David Whitaker, President & CEO of GMCVB. “Grand Hyatt Miami Beach will further strengthen our ability to compete for premier meetings, trade shows and conventions by offering a level of integration and convenience that meeting planners increasingly value. With direct access to our state-of-the-art Miami Beach Convention Center and the vibrant energy of Miami Beach just steps away, this hotel adds an exciting new dimension to the experience we offer.”
Dallas Considering $1B Loan to Kickstart Convention Center Project
By Jonathan Trager
Dallas city staff has proposed taking out a $1 billion short-term loan to help fund a makeover of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
The council will officially vote on the bridge loan with JPMorgan Chase on June 11. The idea was introduced during a four-hour briefing to the Dallas City Council on May 21.
The funding is needed to prepare the center to serve as the FIFA World
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on them to monitor and respond to disease outbreaks, assist physicians and other clinicians in daily care, and inform the public about a wide range of healthcare issues,” the plaintiffs argue. “Health professionals, nonprofit organizations, and state and local authorities used the websites and datasets daily to care for their patients, provide resources to their communities, and promote public health.”
Cup International Broadcast Center this summer.
“The money that’s going to be spent over the next really 10–12 months will be for FIFA and getting the convention center the first part of it razed,” said Jack Matthews, President of Inspire Dallas, a team that was selected to manage the massive redevelopment of the convention center. “And in that is also the ordering of steel, etc. So you’re getting ready to get fixed prices about a year from right now.”
The lawsuit’s nine plaintiffs include the Washington State Medical Association, Washington State Nurses Association, Washington Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, Fast-Track Cities Institute, International Association of Providers of AIDS Care, National LGBT Cancer Network, and Vermont Medical Society, and AcademyHealth.
“Nurses strive to provide evidence-based care. That means care that is driven by current data—but we can’t do that if the data is unavail-
City officials say they believe the new and improved Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center will cost between $3.3 billion and $3.5 billion.
The Dallas Observer reports that estimate “has a cushion built in for contingencies or roadblocks, such as the impact tariffs may have on construction costs,” according to Rosa Fleming, Director of Event and Convention Services.
“We understand the amount of steel that we need. We understand the
able,” said Justin Gill, DNP, APRN, RN, President of the Washington State Nurses Association. “The Administration’s actions in deleting and scrubbing information from federal health agency websites not only harms our members—it endangers our patients, their families, and communities. We need access to current data to provide our patients with the care they need and the knowledge they need to make informed healthcare decisions.”
The lawsuit said the removal of public health resources was apparently prompted by two recent exec-
amount of some of the other products that we need,” said Fleming. “And to hold pricing before we start to get into these tariffs issues that will cause what you talked about in terms of price escalation, we need to order that now.”
Dallas CFO Jack Ireland said the city is not yet ready to issue long-term bonds, which is expected in June of next year.
The new convention center, with 2.5 million square feet of meeting space, is set to open in March 2029.
utive orders—one focused on “gender ideology” and the other targeting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. It added defendants implemented these orders in a “haphazard” manner resulting in the deletion, advertent or otherwise, of health-related websites and databases, including information related to pregnancy risks, public health datasets, information about opioid-use disorder, and many other valuable resources.
“These executive-ordered website deletions were driven by ideology, not
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ASAE Announces Nominees for Association and Foundation Boards
By Todd McElwee
The Leadership Committee of ASAE and the ASAE Research Foundation has announced the nominees to serve on the ASAE and ASAE Research Foundation Boards of Directors for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY2026). Terms begin on September 1.
Jay Karen, CAE, CEO, National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA), will become Chair of the ASAE Board. Sheri Sesay-Tuffour, FASAE, CAE, CEO, Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB), will become ChairElect of the ASAE Board and Chair of the ASAE Research Foundation Board.
Karen has piloted NGCOA since 2015 and previously led Select Registry and Professional Association of Innkeepers International. He has been a frequent contributor to ASAE via articles, speaking engagements and more.
Sesay-Tuffour joined PCNB in 2020 after serving as CEO of the American College of Nurse-Midwives. She
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a few weeks of the Hamas attacks in Israel.
On average, the AAF said in the filing, 400 members attend the annual summit, furthering the organization’s mission of connecting “Arab Americans of diverse and varied national origins, political affiliation, and religious backgrounds.”
Following the attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023, AAF refocused some of its summit programming to highlight Palestinian culture and “to align with and be sensitive to world events. The program highlighted Palestinian culture and music,” according to the suit.
In mid-October, the suit continues, a representative of the hotel asked for a copy of the event’s program.
“No host or venue had made a similar request related to any prior AAF events,” the lawsuit says.
On October 26, the Director of Owner Relations for Hilton sent an email to the DoubleTree’s general manager, and the COO and executive vice president
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University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
During the program from June 2–6, students will participate in on-campus learning sessions with college faculty, guest speakers from the hospitality
received her PhD from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is a lifetime inductee of Yale University’s Edward Bouchet Graduate Honor Society.
Lynda Bouchard Patterson, FASAE, CAE, Founder & CEO, AMPED Association Management; CEO & Founder, Association CEO; and Immediate Past Chair, ASAE Board, serves as Chair of the Leadership Committee.
Patterson said the committee “was intentional about identifying individuals who not only reflect the diversity and breadth of the association community, but who also bring the forward-thinking mindset and leadership qualities necessary to guide ASAE in its continued evolution.”
“The skillsets and experience these nominees bring will thoughtfully complement and round out the current Board, positioning ASAE for strong, collaborative leadership,” said Patterson. “They will be valuable partners to the exceptional ASAE staff team, led by President and CEO Michelle
of operations for the property’s management company, Crescent Hotels & Resorts, expressing concerns about AAF’s summit.
“While Hilton acknowledges that AAF ‘does not frequently use charged rhetoric’ and that the Summit ‘centers around Arab American empowerment,’ it also highlighted that the Summit would ‘feature segments’ referencing the current crisis in Gaza,” the lawsuit says. “Hilton observed, however, that ‘there has been no significant social conversation’ about the Summit. But Hilton nonetheless specifically requested confirmation from DoubleTree there would be ‘NO DoubleTree or Hilton branding during the event; i.e., no longer on podium.’”
Mason, as together they advance ASAE’s mission and ensure the association community thrives in a rapidly changing world.”
The new boards will be officially
Furthermore, the AAF alleges that the hotel’s general manager, director of sales and hotel manager conspired to coerce the foundation to postpone in light of the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel or cancel the event, claiming the hotel had received concerned calls regarding the summit.
A hotel representative told AAF that it was concerned about the safety of hotel staff and guests as a result.
“No host or venue had made a similar request related to any prior AAF events,” the lawsuit says.
After receiving this message, the hotel’s general manager, hotel manager and director of sales—none of whom were named in the suit—“began to conspire about ways to prevent” the summit, the suit alleges.
sector and group activities, including a cooking competition led by UNLV’s executive chefs.
Throughout the week, students will also take tours of integrated resorts, conventions and meeting spaces and sports venues to get a closer look at the realm of professional possibility available within the hospitality in -
The AAF, who would have owed the hotel almost $71,000 if they chose to cancel the event, offered to fund increased security for the event.
In a text exchange between them, the DoubleTree’s general manager, director of sales and hotel manager expressed no intention of rebooking should the AAF cancel, the suit alleges.
“My vote is forget softening [the message,]” the general manager said in a text chain, “cancel the event and deal with any repercussions.”
On October 27, hotel representa-
dustry.
“This program provides students with a truly unique experience as they dive into the inner workings of one of the world’s leading hospitality centers and the variety of career paths and work experiences Las Vegas has to offer,” said Ron Reese, Sr. Vice President of Global Communications and Cor-
installed and join the current board members during the 2025 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition from August 9–12 in Los Angeles. Find the complete roster at asaecenter.org
tives canceled the summit, according to the suit.
Representatives from the hotel denied the allegations, and in a statement to Florida Politics, a new media platform, said: “The decision to cancel the event was based solely on safety and security concerns, not on discrimination. The team made clear at the time, and continue to reaffirm, that we would gladly welcome the Arab America Foundation at DoubleTree Orlando, or any other Crescent-managed property should they wish to reschedule. We remain committed to inclusivity and continue to invest in diversity, equity, and inclusion training across our organization.”
A Hilton representative also told the Florida outlet that the company has “zero tolerance for discrimination of any kind” and the company does not comment on pending litigation.
The lawsuit is seeking class action status on behalf of the 250 AAF members who had registered for the canceled event in advance.
The Orlando DoubleTree hotel was also sued by the federal government for the cancellation and reached a settlement this January.
porate Affairs at Sands. “Our industry continues to experience tremendous job growth, providing opportunities from hospitality operations and event management to professional service positions. Our aim is to interest bright students in considering this dynamic field and continuing to attract diverse candidates to the industry.”
Sheri Sesay-Tuffour
Jay Karen
Historic Hotels of America Celebrates Preservation Month
By Jordan Bradley
Did you know that brownies were invented at the Palmer House hotel in Chicago in 1893?
Larry Horwitz, Executive Director of the Historic Hotels of America (HHA), does—among a plethora of other tidbits.
As part of May’s Historic Preservation Month, HHA has been sharing stories and history from its portfolio of more than 320 historic hotels across the United States. But the association, a division of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, itself has its own history.
The HHA was established in 1989 with a collection of 32 charter hotels, Horwitz told USAE
In response to a trend in hospitality in the 1980s that ushered in the demolition of historic and iconic hotel properties in favor of new-build hotels, “the National Trust had the insight and the foresight to say, ‘We need a program that will help preserve some of America’s finest historic hotels,’” Horwitz said.
The purpose of HHA, Horwitz continued, “was to increase recognition and celebration of the finest historic hotels, while also helping to save them
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across nine tracks: design matters, event logistics, experiential event design, impact, leadership and culture, marketing and engagement, tech innovation and AI, trends and research and well-being.
The rising importance of place leadership for destinations was
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Matthew Szabo and John Ackerman, CEO of Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA)—contends that should the ordinance be signed into law, “an economic tsunami” of “irreversible damage” to the Los Angeles tourism sector would ensue.
The “tsunami” would include a significant decrease in occupancy rates for hotels “below existing 10-year lows,” the lay-off of as many as 15,000 tourism industry staff members, a loss of at least $169 million in city tax revenue, the disruption of more than $342 million worth of new hotel developments, and the elimination of special room rates for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, according to AHLA.
and save other historic hotels, and really communicate to the public hotel developers and hotel chains that these historic hotels were worth preserving.”
At the time of the HHA’s establishment, only one hotelier was collecting historic hotels: Conrad Hilton, who spent a portion of his career as a trailblazing hotelier “collecting some of the jewels of hospitality,” including Chicago’s Palmer House and the Plaza Hotel in New York City, Horowitz said.
Over time, hotel chains began to see the benefit of preserving historic hotels. “Soft” brands such as Preferred Hotels and Resorts, a leader across the globe in small luxury hotels, had been doing it all along, Horwitz conceded, but by the late aughts, larger chains started launching collections of historic hotels. Examples include Marriott International’s Autograph Collection in 2009 and and Hilton’s Curio Collection which debuted in 2014.
“And then a light when on,” Horwitz said. Hoteliers “embraced historic hotels because they were one-of-a-kind, unique hotels worth preserving.”
This year’s theme for the commemorative month is “Harnessing the Power of Place,” a theme perfectly aligned with what an historic hotel offers a guest: a collection and cultural
under the spotlight at the Policy Forum. More than 100 destination representatives and 20 policymakers from 30-plus countries gathered to discuss and learn about influencing future direction of business events through policy making and strategic destination management.
Global urbanist Professor Greg Clark addressed the room stating: “Business events and place leadership have become more important
“These are not hypothetical threats. They are current realities, and they are crippling the travel and hospitality economy,” said Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO of the AHLA. “The proposal’s economic toll will extend beyond the hospitality sector, affecting restaurants, event venues, and small businesses that depend on a healthy tourism ecosystem.”
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Jackie Filla, President and CEO of the Hotel Association of Los Angeles (HALA) said hotels would likely close restaurants and other small businesses on the property to recuperate lost revenue should the ordinance go through. She added that some hotels could cancel room block agreements for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“I don’t think anybody wants to do this,” Filla told the Times. “Hotels are
memory.
“The work that we’ve done through the National Trust’s Historic Preservation and Historic Hotels of America has really been promoting the value to the guest, the wonderful experience, and wonderful memories you create by staying in a historic hotel, by celebrating special occasions in a historic hotel,” Horwitz said. “I still think today, we’ve been successful because—whether it’s for weddings or romantic getaways—I think people would much rather select an iconic, legendary historic hotel, because of its memories.”
It helped that Hollywood took a shine to historic hotels to create a less costly “sense of place” instead of creating a luxurious hotel stage or set from scratch in the ’80s, Horwitz said.
To be inducted into the HHA’s portfolio of historic properties, “a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance,” according to the HHA website. And anyone can nominate a property they think is worth of the designation at
in the past 18 months. This is a moment of great geopolitical change. Our system of global economic organization is being reset—and that means more opportunity for more places.”
The IMEX Frankfurt Gala Dinner Awards was held at the Alte Oper. Looking ahead, Carina Bauer, CEO, IMEX Group, noted that Frankfurt has been designated as the World Design Capital 2026, which offers
excited to host guests. They’re excited to be participating in the Olympics. But they can’t go into it losing money.”
In an April 22 quarterly update, Ackerman said Los Angeles International Airport had “dropped out of the world’s top ten busiest airports, and its passenger volume is expected to decline,” AHLA said in the letter to Bass.
“This is the time to reduce burdens for the people who can create jobs— not the time to increase burdens… some of the things being considered will actually make it more difficult for workers,” Ackerman said in the update.
The AHLA is also calling for Bass to “delay any further action until the city’s tourism sector has stabilized.”
Los Angeles City Councilmember Monica Rodriguez was one of the three votes against the ordinance. According to her, City Hall is con-
historichotels.org/nominate
With the advent of the internet, the process of vetting a hotel for its historical significance has changed dramatically, Horwitz said. What used to take a handful of months to complete, now takes one hour to two weeks, depending on the hotel.
And Horwitz said the HHA puts a special emphasis on the property’s dedication to storytelling—something the organization has been sharing throughout Historic Preservation Month—and keeping the property’s unique history alive and well.
Looking back at the HHA’s 36-year history, Horwitz said the organization has contributed to the awareness surrounding the benefits of historic preservation and adaptive reuse properties and partnered with local communities to highlight the benefits of federal historic tax credits, leading to increases in preservation.
But for Horwitz and the rest of the HHA team, there is still work to be done. This year, the organization aims to induct 20 to 30 hotels.
“We take pride in the past, but our work is still not finished,” Horwitz said. “Certainly, there are still iconic and legendary hotels that we’d like to see preserved.”
the show multiple opportunities to extend its partnerships across the city and promote the importance of strong design principles as the bedrock of successful events and experiences.
IMEX America will take place October 7–9, at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas. IMEX Frankfurt 2026 is set for May 19–21.
Find more information at imexevents.com
sidering staff cuts to cover the cost of employee raises, the Los Angeles Times reported.
“We are right now facing 1,600 imminent layoffs because the revenue is just not matching our expenditures,” Rodriguez said. “The same will happen in the private sector.”
The local hotel worker union, Unite Here Local 11, has been a driving force behind the wage increase. The union argues its workers are struggling to make ends meet amidst the rising cost of living and stagnant wages despite working multiple jobs.
The union celebrated the ordinance’s passage on May 14 and denied claims that wage increases for hotel workers and airport employees would bring further destruction to Los Angeles’ tourism sector in social media posts.
By Todd McElwee
ASAE Names 2025–2027 Class of DELP Scholars
Celebrating 25 years class of the Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP), ASAE announced on May 19 the 12 scholars selected for 2025–2027.
DELP is a two-year leadership accelerator offering immersive education, one-on-one mentoring, and networking and volunteer opportunities. The program is to propel individuals from under-represented identity groups into the highest levels of leadership in the association sector.
“Congratulations to the 2025-2027 Class of DELP Scholars, who reflect the bright and bold future of association leadership,” said Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO, ASAE.
“For 25 years, DELP has fueled career growth for emerging leaders and strengthened the diversity of our profession’s leadership pipeline. ASAE is thrilled to support these scholars as they begin this life-changing journey.”
Throughout the program, DELP scholars receive full ASAE membership, registration, travel, and lodging for the ASAE Annual Meeting and other educational events, along with tailored mentorship and professional development opportunities designed to elevate their leadership trajectory.
The 2025–2027 DELP class includes:
• Tanika Coates, CDE, Director of Professional Development, American Society for Cell Biology
• Vanessa Gonzalez, MPH, Director of Grant Programs, American Academy of Sleep Medicine
• Jackie Hippolyte, Sr. Manager, Web Operations, National Court Reporters Association
• JoAnna Leon, Director, WERC Membership & Managing Director, CICMHE, Material Handling Industry (MHI)
• Justine Medina, Membership and Operations Manager, Indigenous Journalists Association
• Michael Pereira, CAE, CDMP, Marketing Manager, School Nutrition Association
• Vicky Schneider, CAE, MS, Chief Strategy Officer, American Institute of Architects
• Mariel Solomon, CCC-SLP, MS, Associate Director, Practice Portal, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
• Ashley Turner, Director, Accreditation and Compliance, American Psychiatric Association
• Viviana Urdaneta Melo, LCSW, Deputy Executive Director, EMDR International Association
• Janet Williams, SGMS-T, Membership and Operations Manager, Smithbucklin/WERC
ASAE extended its deep appreciation to Visit Detroit for more than two decades of partnership.
DELP has empowered more than 240 leaders during that time.
Find more information at asaecenter.org
EIC and JMIC Partner to Advance Meetings and Events Agenda
By Jonathan Trager
The Events Industry Council (EIC) and the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC) announced on May 21 a new collaboration to align efforts in three critical areas: advancing sustainability within the global events sector, advocating collectively on behalf of the business events industry, and producing the next global Economic Significance Study in partnership with Oxford Economics.
“With the global industry navigating heightened uncertainty—ranging from shifting regulatory frameworks and macroeconomic volatility to evolving geopolitical conditions—the need for coordinated action has never been more important,” according to the joint announcement. “This collaboration aims to help industry
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by science or evidence,” said Dr. John Bramhall, President of the Washington State Medical Association. “In an instant, trusted health information vanished resources that physicians, other clinicians, and clinics relied on to manage patients’ health conditions and overall care. This is more than a policy shift; it is a direct attack on science, evidence-based medicine, and our profession’s ability to care for our patients. As the leading voice for physicians in Washington state, we must stop this direct interference into our ability to provide the best care for our patients.”
stakeholders respond proactively and strategically in a period of accelerated change.”
The collaboration will focus on three priority areas:
• Sustainability Alignment: JMIC’s Net Zero Carbon Events initiative and the EIC Sustainable Event Standards will be leveraged in parallel to accelerate the industry’s transition towards more sustainable events. By aligning resources and frameworks, the collaboration will support a more coordinated and effective approach to environmental and social responsibility across all levels of the events ecosystem.
• Unified Global Advocacy: In today’s complex and rapidly evolving policy environment, where travel restrictions, carbon regulations, and geopolitical tensions continue to
shape industry operations, the two Councils will collaborate on advocacy efforts to amplify the industry’s voice and ensure it is recognised as a vital contributor to economic development, innovation, and societal progress.
• 2026 Economic Significance Study: Beginning in 2025, the EIC and JMIC will work together with Oxford Economics to produce the next global Economic Significance of Business Events Industry report, to be released in 2026. This seminal research will provide updated insights into the size, scope, and strategic importance of the business events sector across international markets, offering critical data to inform public and private sector planning.
“This partnership reflects our mutual commitment to advancing the
role of global business events as a driver of global economic and social progress,” saidAmy Calvert, President & CEO of EIC. “By working in concert, we can accelerate these efforts, advocate more effectively, and provide the resources and data our stakeholders need to build capabilities and make informed decisions—especially in this era of growing complexity and unpredictability.”
James Rees, President of the JMIC and Executive Director of Excel London, said: “This collaboration is built on the principle that unity brings strength. Using our areas of strength together we can deliver greater impact, influence policy, and demonstrate the immense value of our industry on a global scale—in particular, as we adapt to the evolving global landscape.”
A Signature Team Offering at Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Immersed in soft South Carolina breezes and Lowcountry landscapes, Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an idyllic meetings destination. An island oasis where the lazy rustle of towering palms harmonizes with the chatter of resident dolphins along a ten-mile stretch of stunning shoreline, it’s where energizing sunrises partner with invigorating blue and green spaces to invite a fresh take on collaboration. It’s also home to an exclusive group offering.
Between November 1, 2025 and February 28, 2026, your team can stay in a private Villa and gather steps from the ocean at the West Beach Conference Center from $160 per night—with full resort access and world-class amenities.*
Meetings at the West Beach Conference Center offer a refreshing approach to business as usual. Think chic, open-concept layouts, abundant natural lighting and expansive windows peering out to panoramic vistas. Delivering an impressive 23,000 square feet of customizable and inviting space, the conference center has earned the reputation for being the ideal location for all group gatherings, from candid executive sitdowns to formal events of up to 1,000 attendees.
Southern hospitality and attention to detail is at the root of every experience at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, big and small. A conference team and knowledgeable on-site AV professionals help ensure a flawless presentation. Chef-driven menus provide sumptuous offerings to complement the essence of every occasion—from exquisite dinners to the resort’s longstanding traditional Oyster Roast
and BBQ held along the banks of the serene Kiawah River.
The 15 restaurants, cafés and eateries at the resort, known as The Kiawah Dining Collection, feature an array of culinary styles that cater to every palate. Choices range from top-tier cuts of steaks served at the Five-Star Ocean Room to fresh-caught seafood delicacies at The Atlantic Room. Casual fare favorites include Tomasso’s hand-crafted pizzas, shrimp and grits at Jasmine Porch, and specialty milkshakes at Beaches & Cream. The Nest Market | Café at Night Heron Park is perfect for grab-and-go fare needed for active island days. Along with this extensive selection of flavors comes plenty of places to socialize, such as charming seaside pubs, distinguished golf clubhouses and relaxing poolside
lounge areas.
At Kiawah Island Golf Resort attendees can explore the wonders of the island at their leisure either solo or with the team. Guided nature tours offer an immersive look at the property’s rich ecosystems. Guests can journey through subtropical forest trails. View native wildlife in their coastal habits. Watch local bird species make their way along the shore and the sky. Loggerhead Sea Turtles, alligators, native plants and butterflies—they all offer an exciting glimpse at the island’s biodiversity.
As interesting as the adventures are on land, they are just as rewarding on the water. Kayaking tours, fishing charters, sunset cruises and stand-up paddleboarding provide your team with optimal ways to cool off and
have fun along refreshing waterways. Meandering salt marshes, lagoons, the Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil Kiawah River deliver endless possibilities.
Strategic indoor sessions can be followed by energetic escapades. Co-workers can connect during tennis and pickleball matches or while biking, jogging or walking more than 30 miles of paved trails that wind through the resort’s scenic surroundings. Fitness classes and yoga on the beach for all levels and all ages are other excellent routes attendees can take to recharge and renew.
Golfers and non-golfers alike will be thrilled by Kiawah Island Golf Resort’s five championship golf courses—the famed Ocean Course designed by Pete and Alice Dye, Turtle Point by Jack Nicklaus, Oak Point by Clyde Johnston, Cougar Point by Gary Player, and Osprey Point by Tom Fazio. Meticulously maintained and consistently ranked among the top courses in the nation, they are a salute to awe-inspiring layouts designed by and played by golf’s greatest. Before or after a round, catch up and unwind in golf clubhouses that capture the distinct history of each course.
A stay at Private Villas not only delivers sensational ocean, golf and beach views. It offers comfort, privacy and exclusive resort amenities as well. Guests enjoy access to two pool complexes, preferred pricing and tee times for golf on all five courses, complimentary on-island transportation, and other privileges. Make your next event unforgettable. Host your team on the striking shores of Kiawah Island Golf Resort. *Get complete details regarding this exclusive offer and learn more at MeetAtKiawah
Scene At IMEX Frankfurt
Where meetings thrive and connections come alive.
Impress attendees with Sarasota’s inspiring backdrops, from bayfront meetings to beachfront stays.
