Commission Greenlights Redevelopment of Kissimmee Civic Center
Will Create Convention Center and Hotel
By Jonathan Trager
Kissimmee city commissioners have unanimously approved a master development agreement with Azure Hotel International to redevelop the central Florida civic center into a convention center and hotel.
The vote, which took place on August 19, authorizes a $180 million-plus redevelopment of the site into a 45,000-square-foot convention center and a 10-story, 300-room luxury hotel. Azure will operate the convention center, which will be constructed with no public debt, on behalf of the city through a lease.
“This project represents a generational investment in our community,”
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Diane Shober, Executive Director of Wyoming Office of Tourism (center), was announced as the 2025 State Tourism Director of the Year during U.S. Travel Association’s ESTO (Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations), August 17–19 in Phoenix. Here, she is joined by Ellen Davis, Executive Vice President, Business Strategy and Industry Engagement, U.S. Travel Association, and Mike Mangeot, Commissioner, Kentucky Department of Tourism.
Man Sentenced in Shooting Death of Hotel Security Guard
By Jordan Bradley
A 39-year-old man was sentenced on August 15 to 40 years in prison for killing a hotel security guard at a Milwaukee hotel.
Arrick Adams was initially charged with first-degree intentional homicide— which could have carried a sentence of life in prison—for the December 6, 2021, shooting death of Jose Stanton, 28, a security guard at the Days Inn hotel at North Sixth and West Vine streets.
However, court records indicate Adams reached a
plea deal with prosecutors on April 21, the same day his trial for the shooting was set to begin. Adams’ charges were amended to first-degree reckless homicide and first-degree recklessly endangering safety.
Adams was also sentenced to an additional 20 years of extended supervision as part of a plea deal.
The prosecuting attorney, Daniel Flaherty, dismissed a third charge of felony possession of a firearm against Adams as part of the plea deal, according to court records.
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Events Industry Council Announces Updated CMP Exam
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Historic Crater Lake Hotel Closes Amid Fraud Allegations
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Mississippi State University to Anchor New Development with Boutique Hotel
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County Considering Lot Near Pittsburgh Casino for Conference Center & Hotel
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Ann Bruzewski Named Head of Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB
Former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu to Lead Airlines for America
By Todd McElwee
Former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu is set to pilot Airlines for America (A4A).
Sununu will become the association’s President & CEO beginning on September 9, assuming the role from Nick Calio after his 15 years of service.
“I am honored to join Airlines for America during this critical moment for an aviation industry that supports over 10 million jobs and serves as a key economic driver in communities big and small across the country,” said Sununu. “I look forward to working closely with our Board, President Trump and Secretary Duffy, Congress, and other aviation stakeholders to support the ongoing investment and overhaul of our air traffic control infrastructure. Strengthening and modernizing our system is vital for
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U.S.
Travel Honors
Wyoming Tourism Leader
Diane Shober
Named State Tourism Director of the Year
By Todd McElwee
Diane Shober, Executive Director of Wyoming Office of Tourism, was named 2025 State Tourism Director of the Year during U.S. Travel Association’s ESTO (Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations), August 17–19 in Phoenix. Shober was announced as the honoree before 1,000 destination marketing professionals and selected by her peers from U.S. Travel’s National Council of State Tourism Directors. The
council represents tourism offices from all 50 states and U.S. territories. Being named State Tourism Director of the Year is a true honor, and I accept it on behalf of the incredible team at the Wyoming Office of Tourism and the passionate communities that make Wyoming so special,” Shober told USAE. “Tourism here is more than an industry — it’s a way of life, a chance to share the spirit of the West. This recognition belongs to every partner and voice that
Events Industry Council Announces Updated CMP Exam
By Todd McElwee
The Events Industry Council (EIC) has updated the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) exam to align with the 2025 CMP International Standards (CMP-IS). EIC said the move provides a future-focused framework reflecting the evolving landscape of the global business events industry.
Initiated in 1985, the CMP designation is held by more than 13,000 meeting professionals in more than 55 countries.
“As our sector continues to evolve, adapt and innovate, the CMP program is evolving to ensure its relevance now and into the future,” said Amy Calvert,
President & CEO of EIC. “The updated exam reflects the expertise and resilience our industry demands—and the leadership qualities that define today’s top professionals.”
The launch of the new exam is the result of a multi-year, practitioner-led process that engaged more than 1,000 volunteer subject matter experts from across the globe. Through job task analyses, competency mapping, and content review, this community helped shape the revised CMP International Standards.
Dr. Senthil Gopinath, EIC Board Chair and CEO of ICCA, said: “The updated exam reenforces our commitment to supporting our sector’s
workforce and the highest level of professional standards. We are deeply appreciative of everyone who contributed to this project.”
The updated exam was beta-tested in April and May with participation from a diverse mix of candidates and followed by a two-month scoring blackout for statistical validation. EIC said those whose testing windows were affected by the blackout have received automatic extensions through November 1.
EIC said the new exam retains its multiple-choice format, and candidates can expect scenario-based questions designed to assess applied knowledge and strategic deci-
sion-making. Updated study resources, including a new edition of the EIC Manual, will be released in late 2025/ early 2026.
“This update to the CMP International Standards reflects how far our industry has come and where we’re headed,” said Heather Seasholtz, CMP Fellow, Chair of the CMP Governance Commission. “More than 1,000 professionals from diverse markets and disciplines, helped shape this framework, ensuring it’s relevant, practical, and globally informed for the future of events.”
Find more information at www. eventscouncil.org
Philadelphia CVB, Pennsylvania Convention Center Streamline Sales Operations
By Jonathan Trager
The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB), Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority (PCCA), and ASM Global have announced a new strategic alliance sales model that will “deliver a more unified, efficient and client-focused experience for Pennsylvania Convention Center (PCC) customers.”
Previously, the PHLCVB’s role was to sell the PCC for long-term, citywide events, while short-term bookings (less than 18 months out) at the convention center were handled by ASM Global., which manages the facility.
Now, the PHLCVB will assume full responsibility for all sales activity at the PCC, allowing for a single point of contact from initial inquiry to contract.
“I’m thrilled to share this major step
Airbnb Sets Sights on Adding Hotels to Platform
By Jordan Bradley
Airbnb, the house-sharing app, is looking to make strong moves into the hotel sector.
According to Airbnb’s co-founder CEO Brian Chesky, the platform has been wanting to expand “beyond the core” of its offerings and bring boutique and independent hotels as well as bed and breakfasts onto the platform.
Chesky made the announcement on the company’s second-quarter earnings call and a subsequent analyst call earlier this month.
“We’re going to be going significantly more aggressively into hotels,” Chesky said. “We’ve spent a lot of time looking at hotels as a business. We think it’s really compelling, and we think that there’s going to be a lot more to do with hotels on Airbnb.”
Airbnb will continue to offer its alternative lodging options such as rooms and entire homes, Chesky said.
The company has identified opportunities for growth in the European market, Chesky said, adding that “a huge percent of hotels in Europe are independents.”
Data from the house-sharing and alternative lodging app suggests that travelers browse Airbnb’s offerings when planning a trip, but they don’t always book due to lack of availability or a desire for hotel amenities. Adding hotels to the platform will address the gap, Airbnb said.
Chesky also said Airbnb, a “nonAI-native application” that was established in 2007, is looking at ways to incorporate AI.
“We’re starting with customer service” and looking into AI-assisted travel planning, he said.
“It will not only tell you how to cancel your reservation, it will know which reservation you want to cancel,” Chesky said. “It can cancel it for you and it can be agentic, as in it can start to search and help you plan and book your next trip.”
forward in our continued evolution to better serve our clients and position the Pennsylvania Convention Center and Philadelphia as the premier destination in the convention and meetings industry,” said Maria Grasso, Chief Sales Officer for the PHLCVB.
John McNichol, President & CEO of the PCCA, said “providing the best for our guests remains our top priority, and this strategic alliance with the PHLCVB allows us to deliver even further on this promise at every phase
of our customer interactions.”
Meanwhile, ASM Global will maintain its exclusive focus on event operations.
“We are grateful that this commitment to service is a shared core value for the PCCA and PHLCVB, and we look forward to our continued collaboration with our partners to maintain the Pennsylvania Convention Center’s position as a premier event facility,” said Tony Hodgins, Regional General Manager for ASM Global at the PCC.
SlidesLive Achieves AI Milestones at Events
By Todd McElwee
SlidesLive, proprietors of AI-powered SmartStream and SmartRecording, is celebrating a pair of milestones: establishing a benchmark during Ai4 Conference 2025 by deploying a record 19 AI RoboCams at a single event and celebrating its 2,500 lecture recorded using AI-centered technology.
“Working with SlidesLive elevates the expanding Ai4 experience. This year, they made it possible to run 19 Robocam sessions simultaneously!” said Jessica Gallagher, Sr. Director at Ai4. “It didn’t just save time and resources; it also provided complete confidence that all of our event’s content would be expertly captured.”
Ai4 Conference 2025 was earlier this month in Las Vegas.
SlideLives said nearly a decade ago staff members realized the limitations of relying on human operators for
large-scale events. This led to the development of NATE (Neural Automated Tracking Engine) to ensure consistent and efficient event production.
“We always believed there had to be a better way to capture conference content—one that was scalable, efficient, and consistent,” said Vojta Ciml, CEO & Founder of SlidesLive. “It took several attempts, a lot of late nights, and an incredible engineering team to get here, and AI helped bring our vision to life.”
SlidesLive noted its RoboCam—and automation in general—are tools to amplify human creativity and focus.
“Let’s be clear—this isn’t about replacing humans,” Ciml said. “It’s about giving our technicians the freedom to focus on what really matters: lighting, sound, or running an entire live stream solo. We just let the robots handle the repetitive stuff.”
Find more information at slideslive.com
HOTS Lost and Found Again…
The wallet of Richard Guilford, a now-retired auto worker in Michigan, was lost 11 years ago. That is, until he received a message from a stranger in Lake Crystal, Minnesota—some 680 miles from Guilford’s residence in the mitten state—asking if he lost his wallet years ago, the Associated Press reports. Guildford’s wallet was found by mechanic Chad Volk “sandwiched between the transmission and the air filter box” in the engine of a 2015 Ford Edge, the outlet reports. The vehicle had 151,000 miles on it. Guildford told the AP that the wallet—which contained his driver’s license, work ID, $15 in cash, gift cards worth $275, and lottery tickets—had been a Christmas gift from his son. “It restores your
USAE
Publisher & Executive Editor 1982 – 2021 Anne Daly Heller
Publisher-Emeritus Ross E. Heller ross@usaenews.com
faith in humanity that people will say, ‘Hey, you lost this, I found this, I’m going to get it back to you,’” Guilford told AP on August 14. An AP photo of the wallet shows it in almost mint condition. When Guilford first lost the wallet in 2014 while working at a Ford factory in Wayne, Michigan, he and his co-workers searched through close to a hundred vehicles in the hopes of finding the wallet. Guilford told AP he retired last year after almost 35 years with the motor company. “The amazing part to me was it was so protected,” Guilford told the outlet. “Think about this: 11 years, rain, snow. It was in Minnesota, for crying out loud. It was in Arizona when it was bought.
Think about how hot a transmission gets in Arizona driving down the road. That’s incredible.” HOTS—having lived in both the Mid- and Southwest—can attest to the feat that is this wallet’s survival!
HOTS Balancing Act… A 64-yearold-man from Cyprus avenged his former self when he reclaimed the Guinness World Record for balancing the most amount of wine glasses on his head, UPI reported on August 21. To reclaim his record, Aristotelis Valaoritis balanced 511 wine glasses on his head for 15 seconds. The glasses weighed about 139 pounds and were arranged into a block with sheets of
plywood between each layer of glasses. Valaoritis is a professional dancer and previously held the record for balancing 319 glasses on his head— while dancing—in 2023. His record was beaten in April by fellow Cyprus dancer, Dino Kkantis, with 468 wine glasses, according to UPI. To make his newest attempt successful, Valaoritis used a forklift to lift the block of glasses so that he could stand underneath and take on every server’s worst nightmare. After 15 seconds, Valaoritis had enough, and let the forklift carry the heavy load once more—without breaking a single glass. HOTS wonders how many glasses the dancer broke while practicing for this record breaking.
Historic Crater Lake Hotel Closes Amid Fraud Allegations
By Jordan Bradley
A historic hotel near Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park closed abruptly this summer after a former manager was found to be allegedly embezzling money from the property.
The Prospect Hotel—an 1890s-era property in Jackson County—closed abruptly on July 14, unceremoniously cancelling reservations without notice and shuttering its doors after owners Brianna and Eli Braden discovered that a former business partner, Andrea Annette Riegelman, had allegedly been stealing from the property.
Riegelman, 38, was indicted on charges of first-degree aggravated theft and first-degree forgery by a Jackson County grand jury on August 6, according to a report from the Rogue Valley Times. Riegelman’s arraignment on the indictment is yet to be scheduled.
The Braden’s and Riegelman established the Prospect Collective LLC in 2024 in order to purchase the hotel last October, the Times reported.
On June 9, the hotel announced Riegelman’s departure from the property in a Facebook post noting that Riegelman “will no longer work on behalf of the Hotel” and wishing her “the very best of luck in all of your future ventures!”
According to the Times, an investigation was conducted by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department Deputy David Duke.
The Braden’s first suspected something was amiss when Riegelman allegedly wrote a $45,000 check from the business for bedding for the hotel, Brianna Braden told Jefferson Public Radio (JPR). The amount was more than the business owners had agreed to spend, the bedding never arrived, and Braden discovered the mattress company had no record of a sale to the Prospect Hotel, she said.
This discovery led the Braden’s to uncovering more, they told JPR.
“We just kept finding things,” she said. “It just seemed like it was never ending.”
An August 12 Facebook post from the historic hotel revealed more about the situation.
“In early 2024, former Prospect Collective LLC founder Andrea Riegelman—who had represented herself
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helps tell Wyoming’s story.
Having captained Wyoming’s tourism since June 2003, Shober is set to retire from her role at the end of the year.
Under her guidance, the Wyoming Office of Tourism has expanded its budget from less than $3 million per year to nearly $20 million annually. She serves on multiple boards, including the Western States Tourism Policy Council, National Council of State Tourism Directors, Wyoming State Fair Board and Wyoming Outdoor Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality Initiative, where she led the establishment and funding of degree programs at the University of Wyoming. She was appointed to U.S. Travel Association’s Executive Board in 2024 and served on the inaugural board for Brand USA.
“Diane’s decades-long commitment to travel shows her passion for the state of Wyoming and the entire industry,” said Geoff Freeman, President & CEO of U.S. Travel Association.
“Transforming the state’s tourism landscape with visionary leadership, Diane has fostered a legacy of innovation, economic growth and a deeper appreciation for Wyoming’s wonders and Western hospitality.”
Earlier this year, Shober was honored with the Big WYO Award, pre-
to us as a CPA since 2020—proposed purchasing the historic hotel,” the Prospect Hotel’s post reads. “Nearly a year later, we learned the Hotel had become a victim of, and was involved in, an alleged Ponzi scheme and several other instances of fraud. Missing funds and related debts ultimately forced us to close.”
The post also alleged that after the
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Diane Shober
sented by Gov. Mark Gordon on behalf of the Wyoming Hospitality and Travel Coalition (WHTC). The accolade recognizes individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the state’s tourism and hospitality industries.
Candidates for State Tourism Director of the Year are nominated by state and territory tourism directors. A slate of three finalists is presented annually for selection by ballot. This year’s finalists also included the Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers and North Dakota Department of Commerce Director of Tourism and Marketing Sara Otte Coleman. ESTO 2026 will be held in Philadelphia, August 25–27.
By Jordan Bradley
Mississippi State University (MSU) revealed plans for a new 15-acre development in Starkville anchored by a boutique hotel on August 20.
Dubbed the Crossroads District, the development will feature the Hotel Madelon, a new-build 122-room Marriott Tribute Portfolio hotel, as well as restaurants, retail and residential buildings. The new district will be situated between MSU’s campus and the nearby Cotton District.
The university expects construction of the hotel—the first phase of the development—to begin this October.
Named in honor of the original MSU fight song, the Hotel Madelon will feature a full-service restaurant “showcasing local flavors” and a rooftop bar overlooking the university’s campus, the University said.
Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio of hotels is known for design that prioritizes a location’s history and unique story while offering a boutique feel to guests.
According to the university, the “Hotel Madelon will combine MSU’s
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making the safest mode of transportation even safer and more efficient and maintaining the global competitiveness of the U.S. airline industry.”
Sununu was the 82nd Governor of the Granite State. During his four terms (2017–2025) he cut and phased out the Interest & Dividends Tax for retirees, provided tax relief to employers and small businesses, reduced property taxes by $100 million, delivered voluntary paid family medical leave, and provided more money per pupil for public education than ever before.
“I’ve personally long admired Gov. Sununu, and now that he’s left politics, we’re honored to have him as the new President & CEO of A4A,” said A4A Board Chairman and United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. “The airline industry is one of the most essential enablers of strong economic growth here in the U.S. and for connecting and sharing American culture and values around the world. Chris is absolutely the right leader for this crucial industry in the years to come.”
Calio, who joined A4A in 2011, will remain on as CEO Emeritus through the end of the year. A4A said under his leadership the association rebranded and strongly positioned itself as an influential voice in shaping legislative
Mississippi State University to Anchor New Development with Boutique Hotel
traditions, Starkville’s arts and culinary scenes, and the regions rich cultural heritage into its design and guest experiences.”
“This transformative project is about creating an exciting, vibrant hub that reflects the spirit of Mississippi State University while providing incredible opportunities for entertainment, innovation, and collaboration,” said Mark E. Keenum, MSU President.
“We are proud to deliver a development that will serve our students, faculty, staff, alumni, local community, and state of Mississippi for generations to come.”
The Crossroads District is being developed as part of a collaboration between MSU, its MSU Foundation, and a for-profit affiliate of the foundation, West Side Funds, the university said.
“We’re expanding some of the most attractive elements of our community, focusing closely on the parts that bring people here, and bring people together,” said John Rush, President and CEO of the MSU Foundation. “It will be something new students will want to be part of, and something alumni will be excited to return to. This
and regulatory policies affecting air travel and cargo shipping.
“Chris has consistently demonstrated strategic vision, operational expertise and a knack for getting hard things done,” said A4A Board Vice Chair and American Airlines CEO Robert Isom. “At this pivotal moment for U.S. aviation, he’s the right leader for Airlines for America, and I look forward to working with him to advance aviation safety, modernize our air traffic control system, and ensure U.S. aviation continues to fuel the American economy.”
development really does represent a tremendous leap. Not many college communities will ever get to found and grow an exciting district like this, with opportunities like these, in a location as perfectly situated as this.”
The Hotel Madelon will be managed by Charlestowne Hotels, a firm based in Charleston, South Carolina, with 45 years of hotel management experience. MSU expects the hotel to be open to guests by summer 2027.
The Crossroads District’s entertainment-centric area will feature local restaurants, curated retail shops and entertainment venues, the university said. There will also be designated cultural and historical landmarks,
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initial discovery of theft, the remaining owners found that tips had not been given to staff and payroll taxes had not been paid.
Underneath the closure notice, the Prospect Hotel’s website features an animated, flashing notice board that reads: “Have you ever lent money to or received payment from Andrea
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Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa said. “With Azure Hotels, we are gaining not only a world-class convention center and luxury hotel, but also longterm economic growth, good-paying jobs, and a stronger, more vibrant downtown. Azure has been a true partner—responsive, collaborative, and genuinely excited about Kissimmee’s future. Tonight’s vote secures a brighter tomorrow for our residents and businesses.”
The hotel will feature restaurants, a rooftop pool and bar, spa facilities, retail space, and direct shuttle service to Kissimmee Gateway and Orlando International airports.
“It will be huge to have a quality hotel in Downtown Kissimmee and will completely change the makeup of the
including “a new home” for the university’s Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library – MSU is one of six universities nationwide to be the site of a presidential library.
The district will also include a pedestrian land bridge to enhance the area’s walkability, housing options for faculty and staff of MSU, an innovation and research space, and a 700-space parking garage, according to the university’s master plan for the development.
“This partnership represents a defining moment for Starkville,” said Starkville Mayor Lynn Spruill. “We couldn’t be more excited about what’s to come.”
Riegelman (An Drea, Andrea Lins, Andrea Lins Baker, Andrea Baker) – Tell us your story!”
“There are multiple sides to every story,” Riegelman told JPR. “I look forward to telling my side.”
The Prospect Historic Hotel’s Facebook post also notes that “all threats toward the Braden family or current/ former staff have been and will continue to be documented and provided to law enforcement.”
downtown area,” said DT Minich, President & CEO of Experience Kissimmee. “With an influx of overnight visitors, it will be a boon for our downtown restaurants and retail.”
Azure hosted a hiring event with more than 100 local businesses the day before the vote, the Orlando Sentinel reported.
“We have crafted a partnership that not only aligns with Kissimmee’s ambitious goal, but also set a new standard for development itself in Central Florida,” said Ramón Gómez, CEO of Azure Hotel International, according to the Sentinel
An analysis conducted by the city estimated the project would generate $5–$6.5 million annually in property taxes, create 400 construction jobs, and provide 150–250 permanent hospitality jobs for local residents.
Chris Sununu
NEWS NEWS
County Considering Lot Near Pittsburgh Casino for Conference Center & Hotel
By Jordan Bradley
The Live! Casino Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania’s Westmoreland County could be getting a new neighbor: a conference center and hotel.
A six-month feasibility and economic study conducted by CBRE Hotels and commissioned by the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce found that the county could see a significant economic boost with a hotel and conference center near the existing Live!
Casino Pittsburgh.
The county unveiled the findings of the study at a press conference on August 15.
According to the study, a 200-room hotel, and adjoining conference and event center could bring $270 million of operating revenue to the county over 10 years, said Dan DeBone, President & CEO of the Westmoreland County Chamber of Commerce.
According to DeBone, the community has not had a conference
Ann Bruzewski Named Head of Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB
By Jonathan Trager
Ann Bruzewski has been appointed as President & CEO of the Great Lakes Bay Regional CVB in Michigan, starting in her new position earlier this month.
Bruzewski has served for two years as vice president of the organization. She succeeds Annette Rummel, who retired.
In the role, Bruzewski will oversee all operations and initiatives of the regional CVB; the Bay, Midland and Saginaw County CVB organizations; and the Go Great Foundation.
“I am honored to lead the Great Lakes Bay Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau,” Bruzewski said. “I look forward to growing our destination by working with our talented team and our partners to showcase our region’s unique offerings and create unforgettable experiences for our visitors.”
Bruzewski previously held leadership roles at Northwood University and MidMichigan Health. She’s known for her “strategic vision and commitment to sustainable tourism development,” according to the CVB.
“Ann brings a wealth of leadership
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The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported Adams “showed little emotion” as he was handed his sentence by Milwaukee Circuit Judge David Swanson.
In early December, Adams and his girlfriend were having an argument at the Days Inn, according to the criminal complaint. Stanton intervened, asking them to leave.
Court documents indicate that Adams left the hotel, but he returned
experience and a solid track record of success in the travel and tourism industry,” said CVB Chair Elizabeth Lumbert. “We are confident that Ann’s innovative approach and passion for tourism will lead our region into a prosperous future.”
Bruzewski enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband, David.
shortly after with a gun and started shooting. The medical examiner report stated Stanton suffered six gunshot wounds, several of which were inflicted while he was on the ground, and died at the scene.
According to court records, Adams also shot at another hotel employee, but he missed.
After the incident, Adams fled, according to prosecutors, but he was arrested on December 10, 2021, in Georgia following a high-speed chase with authorities, court records show.
center since the Ramada Hotel and Conference Center in Hempfield, Pennsylvania, was closed in 2015, and subsequently demolished in 2021.
“This was—more or less—the conference and hotel center go-to [in the region],” DeBone told USAE. “Not just for current business, but it was really for many organizations outside of our county, outside of Pennsylvania, to come in and really enjoy a wonderful facility and also explore a beautiful rural community. We have just beautiful parks and recreation, a wonderful cultural district, and we have a lot to offer here.”
DeBone has been with the county’s chamber of commerce for the last four years and has been a resident for 26. He describes the county as having “a very strong presence in manufacturing and agriculture” as well as a “very robust business community” made of predominantly small businesses and a handful of big employers.
Over the last 12 years, the rural county has seen a decline in population, DeBone told USAE. But in recent years, people are “migrating back” to the region, and DeBone sees an opportunity to shift the landscape of the community with a new development.
DeBone established a committee called Destination Westmoreland comprised of representatives from “small mom-and-pops” businesses, local entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, universities, and large corporations” to discuss “the what-ifs,” he said.
Through the chamber, DeBone was
able to raise $25,000 for the CBRE Study to look into the potential impacts of a new conference center and hotel.
The report centered on a 200-room upscale hotel, a 60,000-square-foot event center, and 15,000 square feet of conference space that would cost an estimated $86 million to build, DeBone said.
When the committee received the report highlighting the potential of the project, DeBone said, “We were really, really surprised to hear those results.”
According to the study, the “most prominent” location for the development would be near the site of the Westmoreland Mall—which will be the site of an under-construction Dick’s Sporting Goods’ House of Sports concept—adjacent to the existing Live! Casino Pittsburgh opened in 2020.
The next step in the process, DeBone said, will be to address “the $86 million question” that is the hotel and conference center development and to work out those detail.
Above all for DeBone, keeping the conversation around the development going is crucial.
“My thought is to continue to keep this conversation moving forward with the powers that be throughout our region,” he said. “That includes federal and state legislators, local officials, business leaders—we need to keep the conversations going and this excitement moving forward, and eventually people will see a rural county that is forward thinking and [that] we’re thirsty for growth.”
Ann Bruzewski
New Orleans: Where Culture, Community, and Collaboration Elevate Every Meeting
When associations seek more than just a venue—when they want an experience that leaves a lasting impact—New Orleans rises to the top.
Celebrated globally for its vibrant culture, world-class cuisine, and legendary hospitality, New Orleans offers a powerful value proposition for associations: a deeply engaged community, a hospitality sector that acts as a true partner, and an environment where authentic connection leads to meaningful outcomes.
A Community Built to Host
In New Orleans, hospitality is more than an industry—it’s a way of life and the city’s primary economic driver. Locals take pride in welcoming visitors because they understand how vital meetings and conventions are to the fabric of their economy and community. That spirit of generosity is evident in every interaction, whether you’re ordering coffee from a corner café or collaborating with a seasoned events team.
A recent Top 250 study conducted in 2024 by 2Synergize, LLC, Destinations International, and Simpleview—which analyzed the largest conventions requiring 2,700+ hotel rooms on peak—found that 88% of the top U.S. conventions occur in just 20 cities. New Orleans ranks No. 3 for two years running. This high placement reinforces what association planners already know: New Orleans delivers the facilities, walkability, expertise, and cultural depth that create exceptional meeting outcomes.
It’s no surprise that New Orleans consistently earns its place as a preferred host city, combining modern infrastructure with a timeless spirit of hospitality that sets the stage for truly memorable events.
A Partner in Planning
New Orleans & Company, the des-
tination’s official sales and marketing organization, is more than a CVB—it’s an extension of your planning team. With deep knowledge of the city and a strong network of local partners, we take the time to understand your goals and connect you with venues, talent, and resources that align with your mission. Whether it’s building customized itineraries, integrating CSR programs, or curating off-site experiences, New Orleans & Company ensures every meeting is thoughtful, purposeful, and uniquely yours.
Culture That Sparks Connection
In New Orleans, culture isn’t added on—it’s built in. Every meal becomes a networking opportunity. Culture is not just a backdrop—it’s a key component of the meeting experience. From live jazz to multi-cultural cuisine and historic architecture, every moment outside the meeting room contributes to attendee engagement. Meals are more than nourishment—they are catalysts for conversation. Attendees connect over gumbo, beignets, and fresh Gulf seafood, creating bonds that extend
far beyond the boardroom.
Dinner in New Orleans is more than a meal—it’s how we welcome people, celebrate milestones, and bring each other together. It’s one of the reasons we live here—and why so many choose to visit.
Our food is a vibrant reflection of the city’s diverse history, culture, and neighborhoods with culinary traditions that stretch from France to Spain to Africa and the Caribbean, creating a flavor profile unlike anywhere else. Every day, more than 1,000 restaurants across the city welcome guests like old friends. Some are James Beard Award winners; others are beloved mom-andpop spots that have been part of the community for generations.
New Orleans provides a uniquely intimate, campus-like atmosphere— making even the largest conventions feel like tightly connected gatherings. Recognized as one of the 5th Most Walkable Cities in the U.S. by USA Today, the city’s compact 2.5-mile downtown footprint puts everything within easy reach: 26,000 hotel rooms, more than 1,000 restaurants, and over 4 million square feet of meeting and event space.
Even the way we serve food sets us apart. Meals are prepared and shared with a reverence that reflects the power of connection—how gathering around a table can forge relationships, spark ideas, and celebrate life’s biggest and smallest moments. In New Orleans, you don’t just share appetizers— you share ideas.
Purpose-Driven Meetings That Leave a Legacy
New Orleans embraces the opportunity to help associations make a difference. Attendees can participate
in volunteer projects like restoring oyster reefs with the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana or packing food with Second Harvest Food Bank These programs not only support local needs—they also align with broader organizational goals around sustainability, inclusion, and impact.
A Walkable, Campus-Like Environment for Seamless Connection
New Orleans provides a uniquely intimate, campus-like atmosphere—making even the largest conventions feel like tightly connected gatherings. Recognized as one of the 5th Most Walkable Cities in the U.S by USA Today, the city’s compact 2.5-mile downtown footprint puts everything within easy reach: 26,000 hotel rooms, more than 1,000 restaurants, and over 4 million square feet of meeting and event space. Attendees can move effortlessly between sessions, dining, and entertainment.
Let’s Build Your Vision Together Choose New Orleans—a destination that celebrates your purpose and amplifies your impact. Let New Orleans & Company be your partner in planning, helping you unlock the full potential of this culturally rich and collaborative city.
New Orleans is Built To Host.
President & CEO
Lead the Future of One of the West Coast’s Most Vibrant Destinations
Visit Huntington Beach (VHB) is the official destination marketing organization for Huntington Beach, California – Surf City USA®. A 501(c) (6)private, non-profit organization, VHB’s mission is to support and advocate for the economic vitality and quality of life for the Huntington Beach community through inspirational destination marketing and brand management. Its programs encompass marketing, public relations, group sales, visitor and partner services, advocacy, and tourism development.
VHB embodies a community-focused spirit of service that is proactive and strategic. The organization emphasizes teamwork, staff engagement and commitment, inclusion and belonging, professional development and accountability, community support, and sustainability. Representing the best of Huntington Beach at a professional, high-quality, laid-back luxury level, the team is dedicated to delivering the Surf City USA® brand promise.
Key Qualifications
Visit Huntington Beach is seeking an accomplished, collaborative President & CEO to lead a dedicated, high-performing team with an annual budget of approximately $11M. The President & CEO will oversee the organization’s operations, culture, values, and mission while serving as the strategic and visionary leader for the Board, elected officials, community partners, stakeholders, and visitors. This leader will position Surf City USA® competitively in both domestic and international markets, ensuring the destination’s long-term growth and sustainability.
The ideal candidate will foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance workplace culture that empowers team members to thrive while aligning individual strengths with organizational goals. A proven advocate for destination marketing and management, the successful candidate will demonstrate a track record of positively impacting residents’ wellbeing while growing tourism in a way that strengthens the community’s economic vitality.
To apply or learn more, contact:
Please direct inquiries, referrals, and resumes to VHB@winnerpartners.net by September 30, 2025
Compensation: Base salary $250K - $300K plus performance bonus incentive. Comprehensive benefits package.
Provide leadership to ensure the annual program of work is presented, approved, executed and accomplished while aligning with the approved budget and related expectations of various stakeholders including the VHB Board of Directors.
Represent VHB and the related visitor industry as a key voice of advocacy in the arena of public opinion, at the local, regional, state, national and international levels.
Think strategically and tactically in incredibly challenging times, using this unique skill set to inspire a culture of success, both internally and throughout the community.
Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders which help Surf City USA deliver on HB’s destination brand promise.
Ultimately responsible for hiring, discharge, direction, review and supervision of all employees, but especially the senior leadership team.
Serves on committees and Board of Directors of related organizations.
If you are ready to lead a thriving beach city into its next era of innovation and impact, we want to hear from you.
