6.15.26

USAE

THE WEEKLY COMMUNITY NEWS OF ASSOCIATIONS, CVBs AND HOTELS

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JUNE 15, 2026

Destinations International Expands Dedication to Global Advocacy

World Cup Bookings Fall Short of Expectations

Hotels Remain Optimistic

Adds New Destination Policy Role

By Jordan Bradley

By Jonathan Trager As part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening the role of destination organizations in communities worldwide, Destinations International (DI) has unveiled new leadership responsibilities in support of the association’s advocacy efforts.

The group said the changes, announced on June 11, are aligned with its newly launched Advocacy & Action Strategic Roadmap, a framework designed to help tourism and destination leaders demonstrate community value that goes beyond economic impact.

“Destination organizations are increasingly being called upon to demonstrate their value not only as economic drivers, but as trusted community leaders,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO of DI. “Our Advocacy & Action Roadmap provides a clear framework for helping our members strengthen stakeholder trust, align Please turn to page 5

Lisa Vanderpump walks the purple carpet during the Grand Opening of the Vanderpump Hotel on June 11 in Las Vegas. Caesars Entertainment hosted a media experience in conjunction with the occasion.

Federal Case Paused, State Case Continues in Battle for Greenbrier

By Jordan Bradley

The fate of the historic Greenrbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, remains uncertain as a federal case has been paused to allow its owners time to secure new financing, Meanwhile, a state case brought by the property’s owner continues against the attempting usurpers.

U.S. Sen. Jim Justice and his family are fighting in court to maintain ownership of The Greenbrier in

the wake of an attempt to wrest control of the historic property perpetrated by Texas billionaire Robert Rowling, whose TRT Holdings owns Omni Hotels & Resorts. Rowling is alleging mismanagement of The Greenbrier on the part of the Justice family.

The Greenbrier Resort is a luxury and historic property that opened in 1778 in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia. Over the years, it has hosted presiPlease turn to page 6

Inside Page 3 MPI Announces Recipients of RISE Awards Page 4 ASAE Welcomes New Class of DELP Scholars Page 5 Rachel Whitten Appointed Head of Visit Greenville, NC Page 6 Seattle Hotel Workers Vote to Strike Ahead of World Cup Page 10 PCMA Taking Convening Leaders to Las Vegas and New Orleans

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches kick off in 16 host cities across the United States, hoteliers are hosting fewer fans than anticipated.

Multiple reports from national outlets and trade associations leading up to the event decry the lack of hotel room reservations as a major disappointment. At host cities across the country, FIFA canceled room block reservations months in advance of the matches, and hotel room rates have dropped significantly.

Meanwhile, hotel bookings in Canada and Mexico “are outpacing all but one American city” ahead of the games, the Wall Street Journal reported, and tickets for this year’s World Cup games in the States have reached record-high prices—some tickets to the final match are going for as much as $20,000 per seat, according to TicketData.

For New York City hotels, bookings throughout the tournament were initially expected to bring in roughly $200 million, according to the Hotel Association of New York City (HANYC),

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John Tanzella, President & CEO, IGLTA, Dies

By Todd McElwee

Joh Tanzella, President & CEO of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), passed away on June 7 following a lengthy illness.

He was 61.

“John Tanzella understood before most people did that LGBTQ+ travel was about more than tourism,” Meg Ten Eyck, IGLTA Board Chair and Founder, EveryQueer, told USAE. “It was about claiming space in the world.

He spent 20 years proving that, steering IGLTA with an unwavering belief that this

industry was a tool for visibility, safety, and belonging.

But what made John truly extraordinary was that he never let the mission eclipse the people. He had this rare ability to make every single person in a room feel like they mattered. A traveler sharing their story, a small tour operator, a head of state. That was not strategy.

That was just who he was.”

She continued: “John didn’t just lead IGLTA; he shaped its soul. The culture of warmth and inclusion that defines this organizaPlease turn to page 8

USAE

June 15, 2026

HOTS FIFA Scavenger Hunt… The city of Toronto is inviting 2026 FIFA World Cup fans to participate in a World Cup-themed scavenger hunt in the city’s Old Town neighborhood.

“We expect that it’s going to be something that people who are coming in from out of town and looking for something to do and keep their k ids busy will love to do,” said Robyn Posner of the neighborhood’s Business Improvement Area in an interview with the Associated Press. “It’s easy to participate.” Toronto’s Old Town is roughly 2.5 miles from Toronto Stadium and The Great Beaver Quest, as the scavenger hunt has been dubbed, invites visitors to hunt for 51 beaver WEEKLY NEWS OF ASSOCIATIONS CVBs AND HOTELS

USAE

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 Marketing & Circulation Director Christy Pumphrey christy@usaenews.com To ensure publication, all Letters to the Editor must include a telephone number and mailing address in order to verify authenticity.

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HOTS statues on display throughout the neighborhood. “The goal was to draw people to this area, to come and experience what it’s like being in Old Town and to meet up with some like-minded people,” Posner told AP. Each of the 4-feet-high resin fiberglass beavers have been hand-painted by different local artists. The beavers all have their own QR codes, which takes participants to a free digital scavenger hunt, AP reports, with weekly prizes awarded to high-scoring competitors.

The digital hunt also awards prized in weekly random drawings. The contest runs until August 16. HOTS is definitely feeling some FOMO for this FIFA scavenger hunt! g g g g g

HOTS High-Flying Rubik’s Cubes…

A Rubik’s cube fanatic has broken a Guinness World Record by solving two of the cubes while skydiving. That’s right, 24-year-old Ishaan Hadkar jumped out of a plane over Oceanside, California, and solved two Rubik’s cubes while plummeting back to earth, UPI reports. He earned Guinness World Record for the most rotating puzzle cubes solved in a single skydive.

Hadkar has been solving puzzle cubes for 14 years, but this stunt was his first experience with skydiving. Despite the

Ana Munoz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility for Caesars Entertainment, shares information about the company’s work with The Just One Project, which works to distribute food throughout Southern Nevada, in the Constantine Villa at Caesars Palace. The presentation was part of a Caesars Entertainment media experience in conjunction with the Vanderpump Hotel’s Grand Opening.

record, the stunt didn’t go as planned, UPI reports. “I had absolutely no idea what to expect or how it would feel.

During my first record attempt, which was also my first ever skydive, one of my cubes actually broke mid-air,” Hadkar told Guinness World Records.

“But I didn’t want to give up, so I immediately got on the next plane and attempted the record again the very next minute.” He broke the record successfully on the second attempt.

HOTS would say Hadkar is taking puzzle-solving to new heights!

MPI Announces Recipients of RISE Awards

By Todd McElwee

Honoring excellence and commitment within its global community, MPI has announced the recipients of this year’s RISE (Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence) Awards.

Honorees were recognized earlier this month during the World Education Congress in San Antonio.

“This year’s RISE Award recipients represent the very best of our profession with bold ideas, meaningful impact, and leadership that lifts others,” said Jim Russell, Chair, MPI’s International Board of Directors.

“We’re honored to recognize them and celebrate their achievements with our global MPI community.”

“From advancing education to strengthening communities, this year’s recipients are delivering results that matter. Their work is shaping the future of meetings and events, and we’re thrilled to celebrate them,” said MPI President and CEO Paul Van Deventer.

The RISE Award for Member of the Year was presented to Jenny Ng, CMP, of the MPI Minnesota Chapter. She led the development and rollout of MPI’s first standardized EDI training.

The initiative has reached more than 1,100 professionals and established supporting measures, including EDI Office Hours and the Regional Ambassadors program.

Krzysztof Celuch from MPI’s Poland Chapter is the RISE Award for Meeting Industry Leadership honoree.

“Krzysztof Celuch exemplifies sustained global leadership within MPI and the meetings industry through a career defined by education, collaboration, and legacy-building,” MPI said.

“Reviewers highlighted his intentional approach to leadership handover, mentorship, and sponsorship—ensuring initiatives outlast individual terms and that new leaders are prepared to step into visible, decision-making roles.”

The RISE Award for Young Professional Achievement was presented to Nikola Naus, MPI Poland Chapter.

Naus is being recognized for her early-career leadership and impact advancing student and emerging professional engagement within MPI. As Vice President for Students and Emerging Professionals for the MPI Poland Chapter, she designed and launched the chapter’s first structured mentoring initiative.

MPI’s Potomac Chapter earned the RISE Award for Social Impact. The chapter’s WorldPride 2025 Social Impact Initiative leveraged Washington, D.C., as a host city to advance LGBTQIA+ inclusion, safety, and social responsibility within the meetings and events industry through targeted education, community engagement, and global advocacy.

The RISE Award for Innovative Educational Programming was presented to the MPI Southern California Chapter (SCC). The MPI SCC Roadshow is a multi-city education and engagement initiative designed to increase accessibility and strengthen member engagement across Southern California’s geographically dispersed region.

The RISE Award for Membership Achievement was presented to the MPI Türkiye Chapter.

In FY 2024–2025, the chapter implemented a membership engagement initiative by opening the EMEC Istanbul 2025 preparation process to the broader Turkish meetings and events community. The initiative resulted in increased visibility and credibility for MPI across Türkiye, 28 new members, active volunteer participation in EMEC sub-committees, and sustained engagement from professionals previously unfamiliar with MPI. The MPI Greater New York Chapter won the RISE Award for Marketplace Excellence. In FY 2024–2025, MPI Greater New York Chapter implemented a comprehensive overhaul of its Marketing and Communications Standard Operating Procedures to modernize, standardize, and professionalize how all promotional activities, sponsorship deliverables, and chapter communications are managed.

Find more information here.

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June 15, 2026

N E W S

By Todd McElwee

ASAE Welcomes New Class of DELP Scholars

ASAE has announced 12 association professionals who been selected as scholars for the 2026–2028 class of the Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP).

Now in its 26th year, DELP is a twoyear leadership accelerator offering immersive education, one-on-one mentoring, and networking and volunteer opportunities across the association community.

“Congratulations to the 2026–2028 Class of DELP Scholars, who represent the talent, perspectives, and potential that will shape the future of association leadership,” said Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, AAiP, President & CEO, ASAE. “For 26 years, DELP has been a cornerstone of ASAE’s commitment to Conscious Inclusion and leadership development, helping build a stronger and more representative

pipeline of leaders for our profession.

We are honored to welcome this new class of scholars and look forward to supporting their growth, connecting them to opportunity, and serving as their professional home throughout their careers.”

Throughout the program, DELP scholars receive full ASAE membership, registration, travel, and lodging for the ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition and other educational events, along with tailored mentorship and professional development opportunities designed to elevate their leadership trajectory. Scholars will begin their DELP journey at a DELP Orientation and the DELP Reunion on June 12–14 in Detroit.

ASAE shared a deep appreciation to Visit Detroit for an unwavering partnership spanning more than two decades. ASAE added the bureau has been instrumental in shaping the DELP

legacy, and thanks to its commitment, DELP has empowered more than 270 dynamic and diverse leaders.

The 2026–2028 class of DELP scholars includes the following: • Haleema M. Burton, Sr. Manager, Member Engagement, American Staffing Association • Sheila Desai, PhD, Director of Equity and Inclusive Practices, National Association of School Psychologists • Cynthia Jimenez, Sr. Manager, Workforce Pipeline & Engagement, California Society of CPAs • Jose Marroquin, Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Society of Actuaries • Ashley Martinez, Associate Director, Innovation, Heart Rhythm Society • Jennifer Mehltretter, CAE, Director of Membership and Constituent Services, American Society for Clinical Laboratory Sciences • Nicola Mohan, Sr. Manager, Soci-

ety of Women Engineers • Samson Reiny, Director, Media and Public Relations, American Geophysical Union • Benjamin Rome, Sr. Director of Content, American Bus Association • Nichole Sorhaindo, Managing Director, American Institute of Architects • LaToya Tapscott, CAE, AAiP, Vice President, Membership & Strategic Partnerships, Corporate Legal Operations Consortium (CLOC) • Margarita Valdez Martinez, Chief Advocacy Officer, American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy A new volunteer leadership structure put in place last year gives the DELP community an even greater voice and opportunity to collaborate with ASAE and Visit Detroit to expand the program’s reach and influence. The inaugural Chair and Vice Chair of DELP are David “DJ” Johnson, CAE, FASAE,

Haleema M. Burton

Sheila Desai, PhD

Cynthia Jimenez

Jose Marroquin

Ashley Martinez

Jennifer Mehltretter

Nicola Mohan

Samson Reiny

Benjamin Rome

Nichole Sorhaindo

LaToya Tapscott

Margarita Valdez Martinez

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USAE

June 15, 2026

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Industry Movers

Shavonne Harding has been named as Richmond Region Tourism’s Vice President of Sales. She started in May, and she previously held a variety of sales positions with VisitPITTSBURGH, Visit Baltimore, Choose Chicago, Destination DC and the Freeman Company. She has been involved with Brand USA, Amazon Web Services, CBS Radio, the Smithsonian Institute and National Basketball Association. Harding holds degrees from The George Washington University and Hampton University.

Austin Pruett has been appointed as General Manager of the Martinique New York on Broadway, Curio Collection by Hilton. Previously, Pruett served as general manager of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Jersey City. Under his leadership, the hotel received the “Genius of the AND” award, an internal Hilton recognition celebrating high-performing hotels.

He’s a member of the American Hotel & Lodging Association’s General Manager Committee.

Tania Cuellar is now the Director of Catering Sales at the Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown. Cuellar brings more than 20 years of catering experience and will oversee the sales and servicing of catering events in the hotel’s 30,000 square-feet of meeting and event space. Prior to joining Fairmont, Cuellar was director of catering and convention services for the Hilton Arlington Rosslyn The Key in Arlington, Virginia.

Marcos Seville has been promoted from Executive Chef to Director of Food & Beverage at the Sheraton San Diego Resort. Seville has been with Sheraton San Diego Resort for nearly four years and has north of than 20 years of experience. He was executive chef of Naples Grande Beach Resort and Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia. He held positions with Arizona Biltmore and Hyatt Regency Orlando.

See More Industry Movers

Rachel Whitten Appointed Head of Visit Greenville, NC

By Jonathan Trager

Rachel Whitten

DI Advocacy

continued from page 1

tourism with community priorities, and create what we call the ‘Destination Effect’—measurable, lasting impact where destinations thrive and communities prosper.”

The heightened commitment to destination advocacy reflects what the association describes as a growing need for destination organizations to serve as community leaders, policy advocates, and stewards of sustainable growth. It follows the retirement of Jack Johnson, longtime chief advocacy officer, at the end of 2025.

Under the new structure, Chief

Rachel Whitten has been tapped to be the next President & CEO of Visit Greenville, NC, the Greenville-Pitt County CVB announced on June 8.

Whitten, who assumed the role on June 15, previously served as vice president of sales and services for the destination organization in eastern North Carolina and Play Greenville, NC Sports. She succeeds Andrew Schmidt, who announced his retirement in January after 32 years with the group.

Whitten said she’s honored to lead the organization that promotes tourism, meetings, and sports events in Greenville and Pitt County.

“I am incredibly honored and grateful for the opportunity to

serve as the next President & CEO of Visit Greenville, NC,” Whitten said.

“Having spent the past 28 years living, working, and building relationships throughout Pitt County, I have developed a deep appreciation for the people, organizations, and businesses that make our community such a special place.”

Whitten has spent the past seven years with Visit Greenville, NC. She has helped lead strategic planning, industry engagement, and participation in trade shows and professional organizations.

Prior to joining the destination organization, Whitten worked in hospitality and the corporate sector. She said those experiences shaped her leadership philosophy.

“My career has provided me with a

unique perspective through experiences in hospitality, the corporate sector, and, for the past seven years, with Visit Greenville, NC,” she said.

“Those experiences have reinforced the importance of collaboration and the impact we can achieve when we work together toward a shared vision.”

Looking ahead, Whitten said she plans to strengthen partnerships throughout the community and she’s optimistic about the region’s future.

“The present and future are bright for Greenville and Pitt County,” she said. “I am excited to work alongside our partners across the community to build on our successes, seize new opportunities, and continue moving our destination forward together.”

Impact Officer Sophia Hyder Hock will assume strategic oversight of the organization’s advocacy department, while Sr. Vice President of Advocacy & Destination Advancement Andreas Weissenborn will take on expanded responsibilities related to stakeholder engagement, destination stewardship, and policy leadership.

DI also announced the appointment of Glenn Rudolph as its first Director of Destination Policy. In his new role, Rudolph will support the implementation of the roadmap’s strategic priorities, including member engagement initiatives, policy-based resources, research development, and advocacy training programs.

“We are deeply grateful to Jack Johnson for his years of leadership and service, and we are excited to expand the leadership roles of Sophia and Andreas while welcoming Glenn Rudolph to the team,” said Welsh.

The advocacy expansion comes as DI increases programming around the issue. The organization recently launched its first Global Virtual Advocacy Day and plans a second event on September 16. It also will host Advocacy & Action: The Destination Impact Event in Ottawa, Ontario, from October 20–22, bringing together advocacy and community impact professionals from across the destination sector.

“Advocacy today is about building trust, shaping narratives and helping communities understand the essential value destination organizations bring to residents, businesses and policymakers alike,” said Hyder Hock.

“The Advocacy & Action framework gives our industry a shared language and actionable tools to help destination leaders communicate impact of destination promotion and management more effectively while fostering stronger, more inclusive communities.”

Find more information about DI’s advocacy efforts here.

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June 15, 2026

N E W S Seattle Hotel Workers Vote to Strike Ahead of World Cup

By Jordan Bradley

Hotel workers at a Hilton hotel across the street from Seattle’s Lumen Field voted to authorize a strike on June 5, with 94% of the hotel’s 113 union members voting in favor of the action.

The workers at the Embassy Suites

by Hilton Seattle Downtown Pioneer Square have been without a contract since May 31. They say they are prepared to strike during the 2026 FIFA World Cup games scheduled at the stadium.

Greenbrier continued from page 1

dents and celebrities and is one of the largest employers in the White Sulphur Springs region.

In late March, White Sulphur Springs Holdings (WSSH), a subsidiary of TRT Holdings, purchased $289 million in rights to loans on The Greenbrier and its related assets. Promptly after buying the debt, WSSH filed a federal lawsuit to appoint a receiver to manage The Greenbrier in an attempt to take control of the resort from the Justices, who have owned the property since buying it out of bankruptcy in 2009.

In the suit, WSSH alleges that the Justice family has used revenue from The Greenbrier to financially support other businesses owned by the family’s various companies, and that the family is disregarding necessary upkeep at The Greenbrier in the process.

The Justices quickly filed a countersuit in the Circuit Court of Greenbrier County, West Virginia, alleging that the debt of The Greenbrier previously held

by Carter Bank and Trust was acquired

by TRT Holdings through the leveraging of proprietary information gained under false pretenses.

In mid-May, attorneys for the Justices filed a term sheet for a potential loan from Kennedy Lewis Investment Management, a New York-based alternative asset management firm, of up to $500 million in an attempt to secure a delay in the federal court proceedings.

The term-sheet was heavily redacted, but the Justices in their filing claimed they expected to close on the loan following due diligence by the end of June. The term sheet also included personal guarantees by redacted parties. Local outlet WV Metro News reported Justice “and his family members have signed personal guarantees in past financial arrangements.”

In a counter-filing, WSSH questioned the validity of the term sheet and argued it was merely a tactic

The union representing the workers, Unite Here Local 8, said its members are seeking wage increases, yearround healthcare coverage, protections from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, and a return to pre-pandemic staffing levels.

The Embassy Suites hotel is owned

by Steinhauer Properties (formerly American Life), and managed and operated by Hilton. Contract negotiations began on March 2, according to local news outlet and NBC affiliate King 5.

“The World Cup is a huge, huge

thing,” said Jus Adsuara, public areas attendant at Embassy Suites, in an interview with the Seattle Times. “It’s really unfair that those of us who are making this happen for, like, the owners of hotels, for the owners of the stadiums, have to struggle.”

During negotiations, Embassy Suites “offered its employees raises that on average are less than $1 a year for five years,” Local 8 said.

However, the union points out that workers at three Seattle area hotels earned meaningful raises through strike action in 2024, including at

another local Hilton-managed property, the DoubleTree by Hilton Seattle Airport SeaTac. There, union members won annual raises of $2.25 an hour over the life of the four-year contract, Local 8 said.

“The market right now is bad for the whole country,” said Stiliano Hibroj, an Embassy Suites banquet houseman. “Housing, bills, groceries—everything costs more. The raises the hotel is offering are ridiculous.”

Local 8 is also demanding better protections from ICE agents for work-

to delay proceedings. The company alleged the extent to which the term sheet had been redacted precludes it and the court from being able to verify the validity of the potential loan.

“The limited unredacted provisions of the Non-Binding Term Sheet evidence the highly speculative nature of this proposed refinancing. There is no closing or drop-dead date established,” attorneys for WSSH wrote in a May 28 filing. “And as one would expect with a loan of this magnitude, the term sheet anticipates extensive due diligence that could take several months to complete with a complex asset like The Greenbrier and its related property and operations. This is inconsistent with Defendants’ assertion that they ‘expect’ to close on this transaction within 45 days.”

WSSH attorneys also noted: “To pay off known creditors having liens on The Greenbrier Collateral alone will require over $420,000.000. This begs the question as to whether a possible $500,000,000 loan is sufficient to resolve all The Greenbrier’s financial problems, as Defendants suggest.

Moreover, once the full magnitude of The Greenbrier debts, deferred maintenance and capital expenditure deficiencies are uncovered in due diligence, WSSH believes there is a significant probability that the lender will simply walk away from this transaction without liability.”

Further complicating matters, the West Virginia tax division in May filed a motion to intervene in the federal suit, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The division is alleging The Greenbrier and the Justice family owe $4.4 million in sales and personal income taxes from the previous year to the state of West Virginia.

In a May 30 filing, U.S. District Judge Frank Volk granted the Justice’s request for a 60-day suspension of the case’s proceedings. Volk called the appointment of a receiver “an exceptionally serious matter,” and said it was not to be entered into lightly.

“In the face of essentially divesting the [Justices] of their highly prized, historic, and long-held assets, a final attempt to avoid that strong medicine tips the balance in favor of allowing them a brief period to consummate the subject transaction,” Volk wrote in the May 30 order. “If [the Justices] seek further extensions for either (1) more extended negotiations with, or financing due diligence by, the financing partner, or (2) to allow additional forays with other lenders, the balance of prejudice will likely shift rather abruptly.”

Meanwhile in the case brought against WSSH and Carter Bank in Greenbrier County, the Justice family is challenging the sale of the resort’s debt, alleging the pair used insider information obtained through improper methods to take over The Greenbrier.

However, WSSH and Carter Bank refute there was anything illegal about the sale of debt, and they further allege the Justices had defaulted on loans for more than a decade, bringing the circumstances upon themselves.

“With regard to harm, Plaintiffs cannot establish any redressable harm, must less irreparable injury. All of Plaintiff’s harms are self-inflicted,” attorneys for WSSH wrote in a May 29 filing. “For more than fifteen years, plaintiffs accrued hundreds of millions of dollars in debt from CBT through various financing arrangements and then repeatedly defaulted on these agreements.”

According to reporting from the WV Metro News, the Justice family signed 14 forbearance agreements with Carter Bank and Trust regarding The Greenbrier, with the most recent agreement going into effect on February 28. A forbearance agreement (FBA) “allows a grace period but essentially hands the keys to the creditor by admitting full liability and waiving almost all rights to contest a future judgment,” the outlet reported.

After the latest agreement went into effect, Carter transferred the debt to WSSH who then sought to appoint a

receiver to oversee The Greenbrier, kicking off the string of legal proceedings.

In the May 28 filing, WSSH said: “The record is clear: Plaintiffs breached the 14th FBA by failing to pay their April 2026 interest payment and all outstanding real-estate taxes. Even if Plaintiffs had made those payments, the 14th FBA’s ‘Maturity Date’ was April 15, 2026, and the forbearance period has expired. Either way, Plaintiffs have not satisfied their debts to WSSG and Plaintiffs must pay, indefeasibly and in full, the Judgments and all other obligations they owe to WSSH.” The filing continued: “But Plaintiffs cannot, or will not, pay.”

WSSH and Carter are also maintaining that the proceedings for the case were filed within the wrong state, and that according to previous agreements, any legal action should be filed in a state court should either be in Virginia or New York.

In the latest development—a June 5 rebuttal—the Justice family maintained its position and further alleged WSSH and Carter Bank are not interested in receiving loan repayment, only in taking control of The Greenbrier, and the parties’ debt enforcement efforts are harmful to the property.

“Plaintiffs’ preliminary injunction motion seeks straightforward relief: a temporary injunction against Defendants’ harmful and destabilizing loan—enforcement efforts until this Court decides who actually owns those loans (“the Loans”). Defendants’ opposition briefs are works of distraction, advancing a counterfactual narrative and mischaracterizing Plaintiffs’ requested relief,” Justice attorneys wrote.

“Conspicuously absent from those briefs, however, is any serious dispute that Defendants’ actions are inflicting serious irreparable harm on Plaintiffs and The Greenbrier. That ongoing harm, coupled with the lack of any comparable prejudice to Defendants and Plaintiffs’ strong showing on the merits, warrants injunctive relief.”

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June 15, 2026

USAE

N E W S Checking Inn

The Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook hotel just outside Chicago recently completed a renovation of its guest rooms and corridor spaces.

Set on 88 acres of forest preserve, the 218-room Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook now offers guests accommodations “rooted in Prairie-style design” on a lakeside retreat, according to officials.

The guest room renovations “seamlessly blend the property’s rich architectural heritage with fresh, elevated touch-points to meet the needs of the modern traveler,” the resort said.

“Our goal was to approach this renovation as a transformation of the guest experience rather than a refresh,” said Kevin Curran, Principal at DLR Group, the design firm behind the renovation. “By preserving original architectural elements and layering in contemporary materials, textures, and lighting, we were able to create guest rooms that feel timeless, calming and

Bookings

continued from page 1

but recent projections have been cut in half, to $100 million, the association said.

“We now know that the promised World Cup economic boom will be a bust,” said Vijay Dandapani, President and CEO of HANYC. “The hotel industry has been warning for months that World Cup bookings and revenue were falling short of expectations, threatening hotels and hotel workers, the larger hospitality sector, and critical revenue for the city.”

In early May, the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) released a report outlining “the challenges the hotel industry is facing” ahead of the World Cup games. The report surveyed member hoteliers across host cities “and found that anticipated demand has not translated into strong hotel bookings and that domestic travelers are outpacing international visitors,” AHLA said.

When it comes to room rates, the cost of a room night at the Silver Cloud Hotel near Seattle’s Lumen Field went from $1,200 per night for the June 15 match between Belgium and Egypt several months ago, but recently dropped to $309, a hotel representative told local news outlet Komo News.

Further complicating matters, Reuters reported in early June that rights groups have raised concerns about “a distinctively dangerous climate of fear” within the United States as a result of President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. And visa restrictions have been cited by trade

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deeply connected to the surrounding landscape.”

Find more information here.

Limelight Hotels by Aspen One, a portfolio of luxury businesses including hospitality and retail outlets, has partnered with children’s clothing retailer Janie and Jack to present a summer night series, “Under the Limelight with Janie and Jack.” The series brings Janie and Jack’s Americana-inspired collection of kids clothing to each of

Limelight’s properties “through branded moments” of summer programming, Limelight said. Janie and Jack branded programming includes: lawn games, live music, pool parties, firepit s’mores, weekly scavenger hunts, Fourth of July celebrations, and more.

“At Limelight Hotels, summer is when the energy of our properties is at its peak with guests outside, kids in the pool, families gathered around firepits as the sun goes down,” said Jeff Toscano, CEO of Aspen Hospitality. “Partnering with Janie and Jack lets us build on that energy with programming that is thoughtful, connected to place, and designed around the moments families come back for.”

Find more information about Limelight Hotels’ summer programming series here.

The Hilton Key West Resort & Marina in the Florida Keys is now accepting reservations. The property is in the process of being converted from the Ocean’s Edge Resort & Marina and is scheduled to join the Hilton Hotels & Resorts portfolio on July 1, Hilton said.

“The 175-room waterfront resort on Stock Island will feature 86 suites, private furnished balconies, marina access, six saltwater pools, destination dining, and a wide range of outdoor recreation,” Hilton said.

The resort is owned by Sunstone Hotel Investors and will be managed

by Hilton.

“With its waterfront setting, full-service marina, open-air amenities, and island-inspired experiences, the resort will offer guests an authentic Florida Keys getaway paired with the reliable service and elevated hospitality of Hilton,” said Leonard Gooz, Global Brand Leader at Hilton.

associations and news outlets as a factor in the downtick in international travel as well.

According to a June 11 release from HANYC, “the war with Iran further compounded the problem, triggering an additional 10-15% decline in hotel business.”

“Just days before kickoff, hotels that were counting on a World Cup boost to offset rising costs and a prolonged slump in international tourism are slated to bring in just half of what they’d anticipated,” Dandapani said.

The association pointed to strike action at hotels in host cities, like New York and Los Angeles, as another challenge ahead of the games. Combining all these factors has made turned an “anticipated World Cup windfall into a major disappointment,” HANYC said.

Still, some hoteliers are maintaining a positive outlook, including the Hotel Association of North Texas (HANTX), which includes World Cup host city Dallas.

Traci Mayer, Executive Director of HANTX, told USAE in an emailed statement that across member hotels “the picture at the start of World Cup is positive.”

“Several properties are pacing ahead of last year with strong pickup as match dates approach, while demand has been more incremental at others, particularly in the suburbs,” said Mayer. “That tracks with how a tournament of this scale tends to book: a meaningful share of reservations comes in close to match dates, and we’re already seeing last-minute bookings pace ahead of the same time last year. We expect that to build as teams advance and fans firm up travel.

Many of our members were already carrying strong June group business, with FIFA demand adding to an already healthy month.”

Philadelphia is hosting six World Cup matches, including a match on July 4.

“I’m disappointed by the overall negativity that seems to be out there about the FIFA World Cup,” Ed Grose, President and CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Hotel Association (GPHA), told USAE. He went on to add that “while we did not meet our expectations for room nights,” the association anticipates a strong summer.

Alongside the FIFA World Cup matches, Philly is set to host two citywide conventions this month, an MLB All-Star Game, and America 250 festivities. Grose said that he expects this summer to outperform previous summers.

Grose told USAE that he and other stakeholders have been preparing to host World Cup matches “for years.” In the days ahead of World Cup events, he and the GPHA are busy fielding questions and communicating with hotels about road closures, unfamiliar

customs of the international travelers that the city will host, and relaying messages from law enforcement.

“Despite what you may read, the excitement and optimism are very high,” Grose said. “There’s a lot of neat things going on in the city. A lot of my hotels got creative with marketing and putting displays in their lobbies, and giving a special touch for our World Cup guests. I’m pretty proud of how we managed this as a city.”

Dallas area hotels are getting into the spirit too, Mayer said, with team-inspired staff uniforms, and lobbies decked out in flags from different countries and other soccer paraphernalia. These hotels are also offering elevated food and beverage provisions, hosting match watch parties and have created visitor guides in partnership with local stakeholders.

“For Dallas and North Texas, we see this as a chance to welcome the world, show off our hospitality, and give visitors a reason to come back,” Mayer said. “We see the World Cup as both a near-term business opportunity and a long-term investment in the region’s tourism brand.”

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Tanzella Obit continued from page 1

tion, the sense that we are genuinely family, that came directly from him.

You felt it the moment you walked into any room he was in. He built something that was always meant to outlast any one of us: a deeply connected team, a passionate board, and a global community that believes in the power of inclusive travel. That is his greatest gift, and we will protect it. The organization he built is a testament to his vision, and it will continue to grow in his honor. But there will never be another John Tanzella.”

A trailblazer, Tanzella was amongst the travel sector’s most passionate, dedicated and innovative champions for the LGBTQ+ community. Spending more than 20 years at the helm of IGLTA, he shaped the organization in a countless number of ways, including piloting the creation of the IGLTA Foundation in 2012.

The impact Tanzella made on the meetings industry is evident by the leaders of whom he was peer, resource, ally and friend.

“John was truly a prophet for the LGBTQ community,” Brian D. Stevens, Executive Chairman, ConferenceDirect, told USAE. “He was always looking out for us, helping identify safe places to travel, businesses and partners that were welcoming, and reminding us that acceptance could never be taken for granted. While the world has made tremendous progress over the past 20 years, John never stopped advocating for our community and keeping us informed about the people, places, and policies that were safe, and those that were not.”

Stevens continued: “The day after he became ill, we were supposed to have lunch together. Like so many others, I was shocked by how quickly his condition worsened. Since I spend my winters in Palm Springs, I visited him monthly over the past seven months. During my most recent visit, I was encouraged by the improvement in his ability to communicate. That is why the news of his passing came as such a shock. I am deeply saddened that even with all the advances of modern medicine, his life could not be saved. John leaves behind a legacy of courage, advocacy, and care for others that will not be forgotten.”

“John Tanzella was a visionary leader, a passionate advocate and a cherished friend to so many across the global tourism community,” said Don Welsh, President & CEO, Destinations International. “His warmth, kindness and unwavering commitment to inclusion left an indelible mark on our industry and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We are deeply saddened

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N E W S by his passing and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues at IGLTA. John’s legacy will continue to inspire us, and he will be profoundly missed.”

Geoff Freeman, President & CEO, U.S. Travel Association, said: “John Tanzella’s impact on the travel industry was profound. Through his leadership of IGLTA, he helped make travel more welcoming, inclusive and accessible while building a stronger global travel community. John was a respected leader, trusted partner and valued friend to many across our industry. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the entire IGLTA community.”

Marsha Flanagan, CEM, President & CEO, IAEE, said: “John’s leadership and commitment to the business events industry left a meaningful mark on countless professionals and organizations. He was a passionate advocate, and someone who genuinely cared about the people he served. He will be deeply missed.”

“ASAE extends its deepest condolences to our colleagues and friends at the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) on the passing of President & CEO John Tanzella,” said Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE, President & CEO of ASAE. “For two decades, John was a passionate champion for the travel industry and a dedicated association leader whose vision, compassion, and commitment to creating a more welcoming world left a lasting impact on countless individuals and organizations. Our thoughts are with John’s family, the IGLTA team, its Board of Directors, and the entire IGLTA community during this difficult time.”

“I am deeply saddened by John’s passing,” said Paul Van Deventer, President & CEO, MPI. “Beyond being a wonderful Human, I found John to be a kind, genuine leader whose passion for our industry and steadfast advocacy for the LGBTQ community made a meaningful and lasting difference. He will be greatly missed.”

Scott White, President & CEO, Visit Greater Palm Springs, said: “John was an extraordinary leader whose kindness, generosity, and dedication to making our industry more inclusive left a lasting impact on so many, including our community in Greater Palm Springs. The tourism industry has lost a true pioneer, and I have lost a respected colleague and friend. My thoughts are with John’s family, loved ones, and the entire IGLTA family during this difficult time.”

“John was a tireless and respected champion for inclusion and equality in all its forms on behalf of the global business events industry,” said Sherrif Karamat, CAE, President & CEO, PCMA

and CEMA. “We have lost a great leader, friend and advocate who believed that the world is stronger when we have an equitable society. His PCMA family will miss him dearly.”

Before joining IGLTA, Tanzella worked for the Human Rights Campaign, Destination DC and Delta Air Lines. He graduated from the University of Georgia.

IGLTA VP-Finance Tony Warner will move into the position of Interim CEO.

DELP Scholars

continued from page 4

Sr. Director of Association Governance Operations, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), and Rita Chen Fujisawa, FASAE, CAE, Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer, California Association of Health Facilities.

“Congratulations to the 12 association professionals selected for the 2026–2028 DELP class,” Johnson said.

“Each scholar brings a strong desire to grow as a leader and strengthen their impact on their organizations, careers, the association profession, and ASAE.” Find more information here.

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ers at the hotel, the union said, which

June 15, 2026

He is survived by two older brothers; a stepsister; his godsons, Levi, Kai and Aiden; his beloved dog, Max; and a chosen family of friends and colleagues around the world.

Funeral arrangements were still being made at USAE press deadline.

For those wishing to make a donation, IGLTA is requesting contributions to the IGLTA Foundation here for the establishment of the John Tanzella Fellowship Fund.

Hilton has reportedly rejected.

“Management has also rejected workers’ proposal that the hotel notify employees when it knows ICE or [Department of Homeland Security] is on property,” the union said.

Representatives from Local 8 told USAE the union and Embassy Suites do not have another bargaining session scheduled as of June 9.

The Local 8 representative also noted that should the union initiate a strike, the announcement would only be made hours in advance of the action.

Though representatives from Hilton did not return a USAE request for comment by press deadline, they did tell the Seattle Times that Embassy Suites officials “have contingency plans in place to ensure operations continue to run as smoothly as possible.”

ATLANTIC CITY

Looking for a venue where attendees go all in?

You’ll find it in New Jersey. From oceanfront casinos to a mountaintop resort — it’s one dazzling wow after another. Plan your gathering at visitnj.org/meetings.

let’s be social #visitnj

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PCMA Taking Convening Leaders to Las Vegas and New Orleans

By Todd McElwee Convening Leaders, PCMA’s annual flagship event, will be hosted by Las Vegas in 2028 and New Orleans in 2029, the organization has announced.

Convening Leaders 2027 will be in Miami from January 10–13, and registration will open in August.

“Convening Leaders is where leaders and key decision makers connect; it’s where we challenge conventional thinking, re-imagine the possible, and give every participant— regardless of where they are in their career—the tools, acumen, networks, and inspiration to support how they can work differently,” said Sherrif Karamat, CAE, President & CEO, PCMA and CEMA. “It is where our global industry comes together to do business, learn, and be transformed by the experience.

We take seriously the responsibility of being the gathering that kicks off

the industry’s year. That means being willing to take risks, constant experimentation with formats, and to model the kind of boldness we ask the global industry to bring to their own events.

What we test at Convening Leaders, the industry learns from—and that is a standard we hold ourselves to every year.”

Set for January 24–27, the 2028 edition will mark the fifth year for Las Vegas as a host city. Previous years include 1966, 1975, 2011 and 2022.

Steve Hill, President & CEO, Las Vegas CVA, said: “Las Vegas is proud to once again host Convening Leaders in 2028 at MGM Grand. With an unmatched scale, exceptional service and a city built for meetings and events, Las Vegas is uniquely positioned to deliver an impactful experience for the global business events industry.

We look forward to welcoming PCMA participants to a show that sparks new ideas, builds meaningful connections

and showcases the best of what only Las Vegas can offer.”

“Las Vegas continues to set the standard for world-class meetings and events, and we’re honored that MGM Grand will serve as the host venue for Convening Leaders 2028,” said Stephanie Glanzer, Chief Sales Officer & Sr. Vice President of MGM Resorts International. “Convening Leaders brings together some of the most influential professionals in the global business events industry, and we recognize the tremendous opportunity and responsibility that comes with hosting this community. As one of the largest meetings and convention operators in the world, MGM Resorts looks forward to welcoming attendees to our resort and showcasing the exceptional hospitality, innovation and experiences that make Las Vegas a premier destination for meetings and conventions.”

New Orleans will also host for a

fifth time (1968, 1970, 1976, 1990 and 2009). The 2029 event is scheduled for January 7–10.

“New Orleans is honored to welcome Convening Leaders in 2029, returning two decades after the event was last held here in 2009 during a pivotal moment in our city’s recovery following Hurricane Katrina,” said Walt Leger III, President & CEO, New Orleans & Company. “PCMA and its members played a foundational role in helping rebuild our meetings industry, forging partnerships that have stood the test of time. Having had the privilege to serve alongside industry leaders as a member of the PCMA Board, I’ve seen firsthand the organization’s commitment to innovation and excellence across our industry. Today, New Orleans is not only a story of resilience, but of reinvention—where we continue to invest in world-class infrastructure, elevate the participant experience, and lead with the culture and authenticity that defines us. As we look ahead to 2029 and beyond, we are proud to showcase a city that is more connected, more dynamic, and more ready than ever—truly Built to Host.”

Jim Cook, President & CEO, New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, said: “Convening Leaders is one of the most influential gatherings in the global meetings industry, and we look forward to welcoming PCMA and its members back to New Orleans in 2029. Bringing the industry’s top professionals together at the Convention Center creates an opportunity to showcase both our facility and the collaborative spirit that defines meetings and events in New Orleans.”

Around Associations Javits Center’s Joyce Leveston Elected UFI North American Chair…

Joyce Leveston, President & CEO of Javits Center, has been elected to serve as Chair of the North American Chapter of UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry.

The three-year mandate will begin after the association’s annual General Assembly, which will be held ahead of the UFI Global Congress in November in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Leveston joined the UFI Board of Directors in June 2025.

“I am honored to serve as Chair of UFI’s North American Chapter and look forward to bringing people together to strengthen industry Please turn to page 12

June 15, 2026

By Todd McElwee Grand Rapids, Michigan, did not have a brewery in 1996. Thirty years and more than 35 breweries later, Grand Rapids is entrenched as Beer City USA. The origin of the nickname stretches back to 2012, when Grand Rapids tied Asheville, North Carolina, in an online poll to determine America’s best beer city. A year later, Grand Rapids won the poll by a landslide—and it has been the sole holder of the Beer City USA title ever since, Experience Grand Rapids said. Since 2012, Grand Rapids has gone on to win USA Today’s America’s Best Beer City every year from 2021–2025. The Beer City Ale Trail has been ranked one of the nation’s best by TimeOut Magazine.

“You can travel far and wide and not find another city or region that embraces craft-beer culture, from top to bottom, like that of Michigan,” said Wes Kitten in Craft Beer & Brewing Magazine.

In the late 19th century, Grand Rapids was known as the “Furniture Capital of the World.” Fast forward to 2009 when author and homebrewing pioneer Charlie Papazian created the Beer City USA poll. The initiative was designed to measure “community spirit and support for beer businesses” at a time when America was in the midst of a craft beer boom.

Founders Brewing Company was incorporated in 1997 and is Grand Rapids largest brewery. Ex-

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Grand Rapids: Becoming Beer City, USA

perience Grand Rapids said Founders jump-started the rebirth of the local craft beer culture that had last thrived around the turn of the 20th century.

Founders and its circa-2012 contemporaries—including Vivant Brewery + Spirits , Harmony Brewing Company , Hopcat , Perrin Brewing Company , Pike 51 Brewing , Rockford Brewing Company , Schmohz Brewing Company and White Flame Brewing Company—fueled the local enthusiasm for what Experience Grand Rapids called “innovative beers and sociable taprooms.”

“Those supporters, with the help of business and leisure travelers that had sampled the city’s brew scene, propelled Grand Rapids to the top of the Beer City USA poll in 2012 and 2013—abetted by ‘get out the vote’ campaigns orchestrated by the brewers and Experience Grand Rapids,” the CVB said.

Papazian retired the poll after 2013, writing it had “served its purpose.”

That left Grand Rapids as the reigning Beer City USA champion.

After the poll was sunset, breweries and municipalities collaborated with

Experience Grand Rapids on ways to market the Beer City experience to residents and beer aficionados across the country. In addition to mapping out the Beer City Ale Trail, the Beer City Brewsader—a passport enabling users to earn a free t-shirt for visiting eight local breweries—was launched. The Beer City Brewers Fest and other assorted beer festivals celebrated the importance of craft beer to the community all year long.

Find more information here.

“Beer City USA isn’t just a title, it’s a reflection of the people and places that make Grand Rapids, Michigan special,” Kate Lieto, Vice President of Marketing, Experience Grand Rapids, told USAE. “With more than 40 breweries across the region, visitors aren’t just coming for great beer, they’re experiencing welcoming spaces where groups can meet, connect and unwind, whether it’s for a formal gathering or a casual off-site.”

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N E W S Marty Brooks Fired as Head of Wisconsin Center District

By Jonathan Trager

Marty Brooks, the longtime President & CEO of the Wisconsin Center District (WCD) who oversaw a major expansion of Milwaukee’s convention center, was fired for cause on June 8 after the district’s board concluded he had misused public funds, violated agency policies, and misrepresented information to board members.

The WCD Board of Directors voted to terminate Brooks following a closed-door meeting that lasted roughly two and a half hours. The action places Brooks on administrative leave during a 30-day contractual process tied to his employment agreement.

After the vote, WCD Chairman Jim Kanter said the district’s findings centered on three areas: misuse of WCD funds, violations of the bylaws and employee handbook, and misrepresentation to the board.

The WCD operates Milwaukee’s Baird Center convention facility, UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena and Miller High Life Theatre.

Around Assns. continued from page 10

connections, advance regional priorities, and foster innovation that will shape the future of our industry,” said Leveston. “People are at the heart of our industry, and meaningful progress starts with meaningful connections.

When we invest in one another, collaborate across perspectives, and lead with both vision and heart, we create opportunities that strengthen our industry across North America and position our region to lead the future of exhibitions, events, and innovation on the global stage.”

Leveston serves as President & CEO of the New York Convention Center Operating Corporation, which operates Javits Center. She has more than 35 years of experience in the convention and hospitality industry.

She served as senior vice president of convention centers, Oak View Group,

Brooks, who didn’t publicly respond to the board’s action after the vote, had led the organization since 2018 and was widely credited with overseeing the completion of the $456 million expansion of the Baird Center. The facility opened in 2024 and later hosted events connected to the Republican National Convention.

The dismissal of Brooks follows months of controversy and closed-session discussions among board members. Reports from local media outlets indicated that board members had been reviewing Brooks’ actions for weeks and examining questions involving district spending and governance.

According to board member Ald. Robert Bauman, investigators found tens of thousands of dollars in allegedly improper charges on a district credit card. Bauman told reporters after the meeting that Brooks had misspent at least $50,000 and the review had not yet examined all available records.

Local reports said the questioned expenditures included political campaign contributions and personal purchases.

overseeing strategy and operations for more than 60 convention and conference centers nationwide.

The role of the Regional Chapter Chairs and Vice-Chairs focuses on addressing key regional issues and developing ideas relevant to the region, while fostering collaboration and engagement among members.

Leveston will focus engaging and recruiting members across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

UFI President, Panittha Buri, said: “Our Regional Chapters are at the heart of what UFI does: connecting our global community and ensuring our members’ voices are heard in every corner of the world. I warmly congratulate all newly elected Chairs and Vice-Chairs and extend my sincere thanks to those stepping down for their dedication and service. I look forward to working alongside them as we continue to strengthen our industry together.”

The firing also comes after a separate controversy involving Milwaukee Common Council President José G. Pérez. Earlier this year, Pérez reported an allegation of inappropriate conduct

by Brooks, but Pérez emphasized that the board’s decision was unrelated to that complaint.

Pérez also disclosed that he’d learned Brooks made a political contribution to his campaign using a WCD credit card and said he’d “begun the process to return that campaign donation.”

Brooks had recently been at the center of another dispute involving a consultant’s study that proposed a publicly financed hotel connected to the Baird Center. The proposal included demolishing the Miller High Life Theatre, drawing criticism from several board members and preservation advocates.

The WCD said operations at its facilities will continue uninterrupted.

Kanter will serve as chief of staff to the board and oversee day-to-day operations during the transition.

About Brooks’ departure, Visit Milwaukee President & CEO Peggy Williams-Smith told USAE: “We have tremendous confidence in the Wisconsin Center District Board, in Jim Kanter as chief of staff, as well as the WCD leadership team and their staff as they navigate this transition. We also have full confidence in the Wisconsin Center District and Levy teams to continue delivering the exceptional level of service, hospitality, and execution that our convention, meeting, and event clients have come to expect in Milwaukee.

“Visit Milwaukee’s operations, leadership, and work on behalf of our partners, clients, and community continue as normal, and we remain focused on supporting the success of meetings, conventions, and tourism throughout Milwaukee.”

Reservations Open for Hawaii’s First Hilton Curio Collection Hotel

Rendering of the exterior of the Hale Hōkūala Kaua‘i, Curio Collection by Hilton

By Jordan Bradley Hilton has opened the reservation books for its first Curio Collection hotel in Hawaii, the company announce on June 9.

The Hale Hōkūala Kaua‘i, Curio Collection by Hilton, in Lihue on Kaua’i, is now accepting reservations for stays beginning on October 1.

The 210-guest-room-and-suite lifestyle resort was designed as “an exclusive neighborhood retreat,” Hilton said, and aims to provide guests with a collection of amenities, including a signature restaurant, an outdoor pool with a pool bar, fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and approximately 13,000 square feet of flexible indoor/outdoor meeting and event spaces.

Guests will also have easy access to the nearby Ocean Golf Course at Hōkūala, walking trails and biking paths, and The Farm at Hōkūala, a 16.5-acre fruit orchard and organic

vegetable farm dedicated to preserving traditional canoe plants, important plant species brought to the Hawaiian Islands by early Polynesian voyagers.

The hotel’s architecture and interiors were designed by Hart Howerton in collaboration with AHL and Looney & Associates, respectively. The design of the property “draws inspiration from the simple forms and generous lānais (balconies) of traditional Hawaiian-style bungalows, reimagined through a contemporary lens guided by light and a strong connection to place,” Hilton said.

“As part of Curio Collection by Hilton, the resort will offer a distinctive, locally inspired experience rooted in thoughtful design and Hawaiian hospitality,” said Jon Itoga, General Manager of the Hale Hōkūala Kaua’i.

“More than a place to stay, it will serve as a welcoming home base for guests to explore and connect with Kaua‘i on their own terms.”

June 15, 2026

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N E W S Sponsored Content

Celebrating America’s Story in Terre Haute: Where History, Hospitality, and Meetings Come Together As America prepares to celebrate its 250th Anniversary, communities across the country are reflecting on the people, places, and events that have shaped our nation’s history.

In Terre Haute, Indiana, visitors can experience those stories firsthand while discovering a destination that offers modern amenities, authentic hospitality, and exceptional value for meetings and events.

Located in the heart of West Central Indiana, Terre Haute has long served as a crossroads for commerce, education, innovation, and industry. Today, the city continues to honor its past while investing in its future, creating a unique destination where history and progress meet.

As communities across the country commemorate America’s 250th Anniversary, Terre Haute offers visitors an opportunity to experience both history and progress. Attendees can explore local attractions such as the Vigo County History Center, Eugene V. Debs Museum, Larry Bird Museum, Swope Art Museum and the Candles Holocaust Museum and Education Center while enjoying a revitalized downtown filled with dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

At the center of that experience is the Terre Haute Convention Center.

Located in the heart of downtown and directly connected to the Hilton Garden Inn Terre Haute, the Terre Haute Convention Center serves as a premier destination for conferences, annual meetings, educational programs, trade shows, board retreats, banquets, and special events. Since opening in 2022, the facility has quickly established itself as one of Indiana’s newest and most versatile meeting destinations.

With more than 40,000 square feet of flexible event space, state-of-theart technology, in-house catering, and an experienced events team, the Terre Haute Convention Center accommodates everything from executive board meetings and educational seminars to multi-day conferences, trade shows, banquets, and special events. Flexible room configurations and personalized planning support allow organizations to create experiences tailored to their unique goals and attendees.

Meeting planners benefit from an experienced events team dedicated to providing personalized service throughout every stage of the planning process. From initial site visits and

With more than 40,000 square feet of flexible event space, the Terre Haute Convention Center accommodates conventions, conferences, banquets, annual meetings, and largescale events of all sizes.

Terre Haute Convention Center glows at night, anchoring a lively downtown where lit sidewalks fill evening energy with a community coming together for events, dining, and connection.

The Terre Haute Convention Center anchors downtown Terre Haute and serves as a premier destination for conventions, conferences, meetings, trade shows, and special events in the heart of West Central Indiana.

floor plan development to food and beverage coordination and on-site event support, the team works closely with organizations to create successful and memorable experiences for attendees.

For many associations and organizations, selecting a meeting destination requires balancing quality, convenience, and budget. Terre Haute offers a compelling alternative to larger metropolitan markets by delivering the professional amenities planners expect without the higher costs often associated with major convention cities.

Conveniently located along Interstate 70 between Indianapolis and St. Louis, Terre Haute is easily accessible for attendees traveling throughout the Midwest. Organizations benefit from affordable accommodations, convenient parking, walkable amenities, and a destination that allows event budgets to go further while still providing a high-quality attendee experience.

As planning continues for America 250 commemorations and related events across Indiana, Terre Haute offers organizations an opportunity to gather in a destination that values both history and progress. Attendees can spend the day in productive meetings and the evening exploring museums, historic sites, public art, locally owned restaurants, and a revitalized downtown district. The result is an event experience that extends beyond the meeting room and gives visitors a genuine connection to the community they are visiting.

What sets Terre Haute apart is the opportunity to pair a productive event experience with a destination rich in history, culture, and hospitality. Combined with a walkable downtown, direct hotel connectivity, and personalized service, the Terre Haute Convention Center provides many of the amenities planners expect from larger cities in a more accessible and

cost-effective setting.

Organizations choosing Terre Haute benefit from a venue designed to simplify the planning process while creating memorable experiences for attendees. From the first site visit through the final event, the Convention Center team is committed to delivering exceptional service and attention to detail.

As America celebrates 250 years of history and progress, Terre Haute offers more than just a meeting venue.

It offers a destination where attendees can connect with the stories that shaped our nation while enjoying the conveniences and amenities needed for a successful event.

For organizations seeking a centrally located, affordable, and memorable destination for conferences, meetings, and special events, the Terre Haute Convention Center provides an experience that is both practical and distinctive.

To learn more about hosting your next event, visit www.TerreHauteCC. com or submit an RFP at www.TerreHauteCC.com/submit-anrfp.html.

The Terre Haute Convention Center welcomes attendees from across the Midwest for educational programs, conventions, conferences, networking events, and professional development opportunities.

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N E W S Sponsored Content

Celebrate Your History with Once-in-a-Lifetime Events America’s 250th Anniversary presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate history with events that tell your brand story. For more than 85 years, Encore has brought bold ideas, end-to-end solutions and professional expertise to celebrations of every scale. Our expertise ensures milestone moments like these aren’t just well-executed, they’re historic.

We’d like to share this expertise with you. Whether you’re organizing an event to dovetail with America’s 250th Anniversary or another landmark event, Encore VP of Event Production Johanna Walsh and Hargrove VP of Customer Experience Melinda Curley have advice on how to maximize the impact while minimizing the planning stress of these momentous events.

Focus on connection Historic anniversaries like America’s 250th have a ripple effect, inspiring events in multiple locations, over time. When events are united by a built-in theme, like patriotism, they give participants a sense of being part of something larger than themselves.

When America celebrated its 200th anniversary in 1976, about 200 million people participated in the bicentennial celebrations, which generated billions of dollars in economic impact. The official celebration runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2026, although America 250 events kicked off in 2025 and will taper off in 2027.

“It is a chance for event professionals to connect communities, connect generations and retell history,” Curley says. “ The excitement around celebrating such an incredible milestone for the country offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. States and cities are activating in different ways, all building toward one major celebration.

When moments like this happen, event professionals gain access to a built-in theme and energy other events can’t tap. And there are key steps to follow to be successful.

The key to producing successful milestone celebrations One of the most important factors is timing. You can never start planning too early. Whether your event is large or small, locking in prices as soon as possible helps you stay on budget and

avoids last-minute headaches.

Another reason for planning early is that your event may not be the only large celebration in town. “These events overlap with already busy schedules,” Walsh explains. For example, some events celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary will overlap with the FIFA World Cup. When crowd sizes are large, Walsh says, space will be at a premium.

“Hotels, convention centers and event venues will be in high demand.”

Understand your event footprint Another reason to plan early is so you have time to coordinate all the moving parts. “Our industry relies on a lot of resources to produce great events, so planning early is essential,” Walsh says. Especially if you’re organizing or participating in a citywide event, make sure you understand your permitting requirements and fabrication needs ASAP. Because these events extend beyond traditional venues, Walsh says, you also need to think about transportation and wayfinding. Depending on where venues are located, you also may need to coordinate with parks and transportation departments.

Consider making a checklist. Ask yourself: • Will streets need to close?

• Is this event near other festivals?

• What are the local requirements (e.g., permits, noise ordinances, insurance, etc.)?

• Which jurisdiction is this event in?

Does it involve multiple jurisdictions?

This last point is critical because each jurisdiction may have its own set of ordinances, rules, permits and even law enforcement protocols. With large events, you’ll need to coordinate risk management plans with key partners from each jurisdiction.

To simplify this process, Curley recommends leveraging any relationships you have with local officials. “When you build a large event outside a traditional venue, you are essentially building a city. You must handle everything a convention center normally provides. That includes trash collection, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and more..”

Don’t forget to check official city websites to see what other events will

be happening.

Be prepared Don’t wait until a customer approaches you about a once-in-a-generation event. Start researching early.

“Think about what your event could look like and what story you want to tell,” Curley says. “Gather ideas [in advance]. Because once momentum builds, clients will want to move quickly.” Do this, and you’ll be ready to respond.

Create thematic alignment Regardless of size, generational events offer an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate your history. With so many built-in narratives, the challenge will be narrowing down the one you want to build an event around.

For example: If you were to organize an event alongside America’s 250th anniversary, you could choose to focus on America’s history, culture or patriotic themes. Explore all the options before settling on how your event will tap into the zeitgeist.

“There is no one right answer,” Curley says. “Be authentic and identify the voice that fits your client.” Clarity will help the story unfold.

Look ahead Milestone moments can be as much about the future as the past.

Instead of only celebrating the past, think about what comes next, Curley suggests.

Focusing on the future resonates with corporate audiences.

Looking ahead can also imbue events with wow-worthy moments.

Walsh says future-forward America’s 250 th Anniversary events feature drone shows instead of fireworks.

“That opens [new] creative design possibilities.”

Think local Remember, when milestone anniversaries happen, your event will be one of many. Localization will help it stand out.

“Local stories are powerful,” Walsh explains. “We will see celebrations across the country, so highlighting regional identity will matter.”

Let your host city or regional culture inspire the story your event tells. For example, if you’re in Cincinnati, you might want to tie into its riverboat history by meeting alongside the Ohio River.

That kind of localized storytelling resonates deeply, Walsh says.

Leverage emotions Landmark moments like America’s 250th Anniversary generate nostalgia and offer opportunities to unite people and build community. Leverage these potent emotions to develop moments that matter.

“Create experiences that help people feel this is our history, our moment and our future,” Curley says.

This is your opportunity to be bold, experiment and celebrate at scale.

How can you help participants feel pride about being part of this moment? How will your event build off the energy and momentum of other events happening around this theme?

If you leverage this correctly, your event will bring people together in ways that feel meaningful and lasting.

Ready to make history?

Looking to celebrate memorable moments with events that tell your unique story? Let’s chat!

Celebrating History with Once-in-a-Lifetime Events America’s 250th Anniversary presents a unique opportunity to celebrate history with events that tell your brand’s unique story. At the cusp of this momentous occasion, we’re grateful that you’ve trusted us with bringing your most important moments to life.

For more than 85 years, we’ve ensured your milestone moments aren’t just well-executed, they’re historic by delivering end-to-end solutions with a hospitality-first mindset.

Thank you for trusting us with your vision, your story and your once-in-a-lifetime celebrations!

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