36 minute read
USAE Issue 9.8.25
Hilton AmericasHouston Hotel Workers Go on Strike
By Jordan Bradley
Hundreds of workers at the Hilton Americas-Houston, the largest hotel in the city, went on strike on Labor Day.
The strike is the first of its kind for hotel staff in the state, according to Unite Here Local 23.
Workers at the Hilton Americas-Houston are seeking wage increases to $23 per hour, “fair schedules, fair workloads, and respect,” according to the union. Their most recent contract expires on June 30, with the strike set to end on September 10.
An employee of the hotel for the last 21 years, Bill Guillen, told Houston Public Media that he currently makes $16.50 an hour, and that the last raise he received was in 2020.
The Hilton Americas-Houston is a convention, conference and event destination in the city. The hotel boasts 1,207 guest rooms and suites, a lobby restaurant, a rooftop lounge, the Skyline Spa & Health Club, a pool and fitness center, and 91,500 square feet of flexible meeting and event space. The Hilton is also connected via overhead walkway to the George R. Brown Convention Center.
“Hospitality and service workers are the heart of Houston’s busy tourism industry and we’re not getting our fair share of the money coming in,” said Franchesca Caraballo, Texas Chapter President of Unite Here Local 23. “This strike sends a message to Hilton and the other tourism companies in Houston that working people are demanding more for our work greeting visitors and guests to the city.”
In 2024, hotels in the city saw a 7.7% increase in occupancy, and a 15.5% increase in revenue, according to the Houston First Corp. But as of this July, the organization found, revenue has been down 6.1% for 2025.
“I’m on strike for better pay, a fair schedule, and more affordable health insurance. I’m in need of a surgery right now, but if I were to take off, I wouldn’t be able to survive,” said Cynthia Pratt, server of 13 years at the property’s 1600 Bar & Grille. “I had to take out loans this month just to afford my rent. I haven’t been getting the hours I need even though I’m a full-time employee. I’m depending on partial unemployment to supplement my income because I’m not making enough at the Hilton alone.”
A Hilton spokesperson did not respond to a USAE request for comment by press deadline, but it shared a statement with local Houston outlets regarding the strike.
According to the statement: “We respect the unions’ and Team Members’ right to express their points of view and Hilton Americas-Houston makes every effort to maintain a cooperative and productive relationship with UNITE HERE Local 23, a union that represents some of the Team Members at the hotel. We remain committed to negotiating in good faith to reach a fair and reasonable agreement that is beneficial to both our valued Team Members and to the hotel.”
Zanny Minton Beddoes Set to Deliver Convening Leaders Keynote
Editor-in-Chief of The Economist
By Todd McElwee
Zanny Minton Beddoes, Editor -in-Chief of The Economist, will help PCMA celebrate its 70th anniversary in Philadelphia—the city where the association held its initial conference in 1956.
The first female editor in publication’s 182-year history will deliver the Main Stage keynote on January 12 during Convening Leaders 2026 (CL26). CL26 is scheduled for January 11–14.
Sherrif Karamat, CAE, PCMA and CEMA President & CEO, said: “As we return to our founding city, CL26 is both a celebration and a call to action to reshape what’s possible for the next generation of the global business events community. Ms. Minton Beddoes will undoubtedly provide participants with the geopolitical and economic context we need to make strategic decisions amidst the current economic climate.”
PCMA said Minton Beddoes will inspire participants to explore the intersection of business, AI and innovation.
“Minton Beddoes is a renowned global economics expert, sought-after for her authoritative perspectives on the world economy—particularly now with the international ripple effects of the coronavirus pandemic,” her CL26 profile said.
Named one of the “Most Powerful Women in the World” by Forbes, Minton Beddoes previously served as The Economist’s business affairs editor, economics editor and emerging-markets correspondent. She took on her current post in 2015.
The publication noted she spent time at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and held an advisory role to the Minister of Finance in Poland as part of a small group headed by Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Harvard University. She holds degrees from Oxford University and Harvard University.
Find more at conveningleaders.org
California Hotel First to Earn “Neuro-Ready” Status from Friendly Accessibility
By Jordan Bradley
The Hilton Garden Inn Sunnyvale in California is the first hotel to receive Friendly Accessibility’s Neuro-Ready Certified status.
The Neuro-Ready Certified status designates a hotel as committed to being sensory-friendly through staff trainings, kits for neurodivergent guests, and spaces curated to create calm and comfort. The hotel’s owner and management company, OTO Development, shared the news on September 3.
“This partnership pioneers a new standard for inclusive hospitality,” said Julie Steele, Found of Friendly Accessibility. “Travel can be an overwhelming experience for people with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism. By offering sensory-friendly service, environments, and amenities, Neuro-Ready Hotels provide more than a place to sleep—they can become an oasis of comfort and calm.”
As part of the partnership, the 238room hotel undertook specialized training for staff that teaches hotel staff “sensory-awareness skills to better recognize and accommodate the needs of neurodivergent guests,” OTO said.
The sensory-friendly kits available for guests—dubbed “Calm Kits”—include Quiet Mind weighted pillows, sound machines, a guidebook and other sensory comfort tools.
The Hilton Garden Inn Sunnyvale has adjusted the lighting and sound as well as increased the level of comfort in the hotel’s public spaces to better accommodate neurodivergent individuals who often have sensitivities to sound, light and touch. Other guests also benefit from a calming space amidst travel, which can frequently be stressful.
“Our goal is to provide an exceptional experience for every guest, every stay,” said Taissa Christino, Director of Sales at Hilton Garden Inn Sunnyvale. “Sensory comfort benefits everyone, and partnering with Friendly Accessibility enhances our ability to accommodate a diversity of needs.”
Friendly Accessibility’s Neuro-Ready certification also ensures that a hotel’s website and digital content, including mobile apps, emails, and social media posts are in adherence with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some states, including California, have more robust laws to which businesses must adhere.
Friendly Accessibility’s certification and training make the ADA’s technical requirements less “confusing” by simplifying them into “practical steps,” according to the organization.
Jake Steinman, Founder and CEO of accessible travel advocacy organization TravelAbility, said Friendly Accessibility’s model is not the first, but is unique in its pairing of both physical accessibility offerings on the hotel property in combination with adjustments to the hotel website to ensure ADA compliance.
“Although this type of training has been done by IBCCES as well as Kulture City, what’s unique is that they package digital and Neuro accessibility together in a way that is disarming to hotels who seem to live in fear of the ADA police,” said Steinman.
According to a 2024 study released by the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 4 adults in the United States has a disability and some 80% of those with disabilities are contending with invisible diagnoses.
“When hotels invest in thoughtful sensory accommodations, they’re unlocking an underserved market,” said Steele. “Inclusive hospitality is good business, because every traveler benefits from a more comfortable, welcoming environment.”
ASAE Embedding Conscious Inclusion Across All Work to Strengthen Impact
By ASAE Staff
ASAE is taking an important step forward in its commitment to Conscious Inclusion by embedding this value into every area of the organization’s work— from workforce strategy and leadership development to programs, events, advocacy, and member engagement.
This evolution reflects the ASAE Board’s recent discussions on strategic direction and risk management. The goal is to ensure Conscious Inclusion is not
a stand-alone department, but a driving force that permeates all of ASAE’s work and impact. This work builds directly on ASAE’s cause, helping associations and association professionals transform society through the power of collaboration, and reinforces ASAE’s promise of connecting great ideas and great people to inspire leadership and achievement across the association community.
“Integration does not mean stepping back. It means embedding inclusion more deeply into every program, policy, and service that ASAE offers,” said ASAE Chair Jay Karen, CAE, CEO of the National Golf Course Owners Association. “This approach allows us to accelerate outcomes, enhance member value, and make this work even more impactful and sustainable.”
By aligning Conscious Inclusion practices with ASAE’s core strategy, the organization can directly influence governance, workforce development, advocacy, and member engagement—ensuring that inclusion is not just a principle, but a practical driver of results across the association community.
Importantly, ASAE’s flagship leadership development programs—including the Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP) and ReadyMe—remain central to this commitment. These programs, along with other initiatives that elevate diverse voices and leadership in the association community, will continue with renewed support and alignment to ASAE’s broader strategy.
“Embedding Conscious Inclusion reflects both who we are and where we’re going,” said Sheri Sesay-Tuffour, PhD, FASAE, CAE, CEO of the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board, ASAE Chair-Elect, and Chair of the ASAE Research Foundation. “It ensures that inclusion is not just a program or initiative—it’s the lens through which we design, deliver, and measure our work for the association community.”
Echoing that sentiment, Philip K. Bell,CAE, President of the Steel Manufacturers Association and Secretary-Treasurer of the ASAE Board, emphasized the Board’s long-term vision.
“The Board’s charge is to safeguard ASAE’s mission and impact,” said Bell. “Embedding Conscious Inclusion across the organization strengthens ASAE, mitigates risk, and ensures this value is embedded in everything we do—today and in the future.”
Looking ahead, ASAE underscored that the next phase will be developed in partnership with volunteer leaders, who will help shape a transition plan that ensures inclusion efforts are integrated into ASAE’s future strategic planning and supported by clear, measurable metrics for success. ASAE invites all members to bring their perspectives, experiences, and ideas to ensure that Conscious Inclusion continues to evolve as a shared strength of the association community.
“I want to thank our Board and our volunteer leaders for their thoughtful guidance and partnership in ensuring that Conscious Inclusion remains a core value strategically woven throughout ASAE,” said ASAE President & CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “Their leadership ensures that inclusion is thoughtfully reflected in every program, policy, and service, and that it will continue to drive the impact of our organization far into the future. As associations navigate this uncertain environment, our responsibility to members is to be a model that other associations can learn from—to set the gold standard for embedding inclusion into strategy, operations, and impact.”
Visit Savannah and LoveShackFancy Debut Collection at Saks Fifth Avenue
By Jonathan Trager
Georgia’s Visit Savannah has unveiled a new partnership with LoveShackFancy, introducing a limited-edition capsule collection available only at Saks Fifth Avenue, a Saks Global luxury retailer.
The collaboration, which debuted at an event at New York City’s L’Avenue at Saks in late August, “celebrates the shared spirit of style, charm and discovery that defines both the beloved Southern destination and the leading name in luxury shopping,” according to Visit Savannah.
Angela Westerfield, Chief Marketing Officer at Visit Savannah, said the collaboration is “more than a fashion moment—it’s a destination branding milestone.”
“By aligning with LoveShackFancy and Saks Fifth Avenue, we’re meeting travelers where passion and inspiration intersect,” said Westerfield. “Today’s consumers seek experiences that are both visually driven and emotionally resonant. This collaboration not only elevates Savannah’s image through style and storytelling—it deepens visitor engagement by inviting travelers to connect with our destination in a personal, memorable, and truly immersive way.”
The Visit Savannah/LoveShackFancy collection unites “high-style resort wear with Savannah’s timeless elegance,” and captures the essence of “aesthetic travel,” where fashion and destination identity converge, Visit Savannah stated. Savannah’s influence is woven throughout the collection, with custom fabric names like “Hidden Garden,” inspired by the city’s tucked-away, coveted courtyards, and “Taylor Square,” a nod to one of Savannah’s 23 historic squares.
Visit Savannah said the fashion-forward initiative reflects the organization’s continued focus on creative, experience-driven tourism marketing. It follows the success of the “Surprisingly Savannah” mobile tour, which brought immersive destination experiences to travelers across 17 U.S. cities.
The Visit Savannah/ LoveShackFancy collection is available now in select Saks Fifth Avenue stores and on Saks.com
Salt Palace Convention Center Earns WELL Health-Safety Rating
By Jonathan Trager
The Salt Palace Convention Center (SPCC) in Salt Lake City has earned the WELL Health-Safety Rating from the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), making it the only convention center in the world to currently hold the designation.
The rating recognizes excellence in operational policies, maintenance protocols, stakeholder engagement, and emergency preparedness. More than 4,500 projects globally have achieved the standard, but SPCC, managed by Legends/ASM Global, is unique among convention centers.
“This rating is a testament to our proactive approach to health and safety, and the trust we strive to build with every guest who walks through our doors,” said Dan Hayes, General Manager of SPCC. “We’re honored to lead the way in setting a global standard for convention centers.”
The WELL Health-Safety Rating was created to guide organizations in implementing evidence-based strategies to protect people’s well-being— first in response to COVID-19, and now as a benchmark for ongoing public safety and operational resilience.
“This WELL Health-Safety Rating recognition is a great honor for the Salt Palace Convention Center and speaks directly to the work the convention center team does for the employees, visitors, and residents who utilize the facility,” said Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson. “As the Salt Palace prepares for a major renovation, it’s great to know this groundwork is in place to ensure a strong, healthy, and safe transition. In Salt Lake County, we put people first. This is another great example of that priority.”
To earn the WELL Health-Safety Rating, SPCC strengthened its emergency preparedness and communications. Among other requirements, the center assessed its emergency response plan, ensuring annual reviews, maintenance of critical safety equipment, and specialized procedures for vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
In addition, SPCC enhanced guest access to emergency information by posting QR codes throughout the venue, linking visitors directly to building emergency resources. Beyond emergency readiness, SPCC also demonstrated excellence in employee health and well-being—including sick leave, health benefits, and mental-health support.
Honeycomb Strategies served as a WELL Accredited Professional advisor for the project.
HOTS
HOTS Chuck E. Cheese Catches Charges… Police in Tallahassee, Florida, released body camera footage on September 3 of the arrest of a man in a Chuck E. Cheese mascot uniform. The well-known mouse was arrested on charges of credit card theft and fraud, according to the Tallahassee Police Department. The incident occurred in July. The man-in-the-mouse-costume was preparing to take photos with children at the restaurant-arcade when the arrest was made. The video went viral, and in it, children can be heard saying, “Oh no!” as Chuck E. Cheese was being placed in handcuffs and taken out of the franchise. According to USA Today, Jermel Jarreau Jones was walking around in the mouse costume that day—though how those officers knew for sure will always be a mystery to HOTS.
HOTS Miracle Tree… A tree that had been struck by lighting in La Paz, Bolivia, is being regarded as a miracle, drawing devotees from across the country during the last week of August, the Associated Press reports. The tree, which lives in La Paz’s largest public cemetery, was originally struck by lightning during a huge thunderstorm 10 years ago.
“People ask for love, work, health, children, even to bring back their lost pet,” said Javier Cordero, who leads funeral prayers at the cemetery, in an interview with AP. “If the person comes with a lot of faith, the tree will fulfill their wishes.” Amid a shifting political and economic landscape, pilgrims travelled to and through the cemetery with offerings—coins, flowers, sweets and candies, handwritten notes requesting favors, and the like—for the miracle tree. While some trees become decimated from lighting strikes, crumbling to ash, the Bolivian miracle tree, a pine tree, appears to be thriving. In majority-Indigenous Bolivia, August is a month for giving thanks and making offerings to the Pachamama, or Mother Earth. Some visitors were going to the tree for the first time, while others had been visiting the tree for years. “He likes sweets,” said Tania Arce, offering the tree chocolates and flowers, in an interview with AP. “He fulfilled the favor I asked of him, but I haven’t stopped visiting.” HOTS thinks that’s one lucky tree!
American Gaming Association Estimates $30 Billion in Legal NFL Wagering
The 2025 NFL season kicked off September 4 and new research from the American Gaming Association (AGA) shows an estimated $30 billion is expected to be wagered on the sport via legal U.S. sportsbooks.
This represents an 8.5% increase over last season’s revised estimated handle of $27.6 billion.
“This season, fans have more ways than ever to responsibly engage with the game they love. Legal sports betting enhances the fun and friendly competition that make NFL games and traditions even more special,” said AGA President & CEO Bill Miller. “With strong consumer protections and a shared commitment to responsibility, the legal, regulated sports betting industry encourages all footballs fans to have a game plan before placing a bet and ensure their gameday experience— regardless of the outcome of a bet or the game—remains enjoyable.”
Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in 2018, 38 states and Washington, D.C., now offer consumers “safe and regulated options to engage with their favorite sports,” AGA said.
The association added the nation’s support for legal sports betting remains strong, with 75% of Americans supporting legal sports wagering in their home state and 90% viewing sports betting as an acceptable form of entertainment.
This year’s estimate is based on national handle growth to date in 2025 applied to last year’s estimated NFL season total, along with football-specific reporting from select states used to calculate the share of wagers expected on professional football.
AGA is reminding bettors to have a plan and bet responsibly. The “Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly” campaign encourages individuals to set a budget and stick to it, keep it social, know the odds, play legally and keep their cool.
Find more information at americangaming.org
ABA and AIANTA Partner to Promote Indigenous Tourism
By Todd McElwee
The American Bus Association (ABA) and American Indian Alaska Native Tourism Association (AIANTA) have entered into a strategic trade agreement to strengthen opportunities for U.S. indigenous-owned and operated tourism businesses in the group travel sector.
ABA said the collaboration underscores its commitment to supporting indigenous tourism as a driver of cultural preservation, economic growth, and authentic travel experiences across North America.
As part of the agreement, ABA and AIANTA will exhibit at each organization’s annual event: the 27th Annual American Indigenous Tourism Conference in Choctaw, Mississippi, and ABA’s Marketplace 2026 in Reno.
“Indigenous and cultural heritage tourism is not just about seeing a destination—it’s about experiencing the living culture, history, and traditions of the people who call it home,” said Ben H. Rome, ABA’s Director of Communications & Brand.
“This partnership with AIANTA helps ensure that Native voices and businesses have a stronger presence in the group travel industry, while giving travelers authentic experiences that enrich their understanding of America’s diverse heritage.”
Through Marketplace networking, targeted marketing, and educational exchanges, ABA said it will actively support AIANTA’s mission to define, introduce, grow, and sustain American indigenous tourism that honors traditions and values. This includes promoting opportunities for ABA members to incorporate Indigenous-owned and -operated attractions, accommodations, and experiences into tour offerings.
“This collaboration represents a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and representative travel industry,” said Sherry L. Rupert (Paiute/Washoe), CEO of AIANTA. “Together with ABA, we’re building connections that bring economic benefits to native nations and communities while giving visitors a deeper, more authentic view of Indigenous lands and cultures.”
Chicago Housekeepers Locked Out of Hotel Amid Contract Negotiations
By Jordan Bradley
Hotel workers at the Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown in Chicago held protests over Labor Day weekend after housekeepers at the hotel were allegedly locked out of the property on August 30.
The Unite Here Local 1 hotel worker union associated with the property said the lockout came after the workers held “an informational picket line” on August 28 amid ongoing contract negotiations.
“Housekeeping department workers at the Holiday Inn & Suites Chicago-Downtown at 506 W Harrison Street have been unfairly LOCKED OUT in the middle of negotiations for their first union contract. These workers won union recognition over two years ago and have been pushing for a first contract with fair wages and benefits,” the union said in a social media post on August 30.
The union claims housekeepers at the hotel make $6 less than at other downtown hotels.
The rally was held outside the Holiday Inn & Suites. The hotel’s workers were joined by other Local 1 union members and representatives of the Chicago Federation of Labor, the Chicago Laborer’s District Council, the Chicago Federation of Musicians, Chicago Painters District Council 14, and Teamsters Local 705.
“We’re here to tell you, this is enough already,” said Father Clete Kiley, Chaplain for the Chicago Federation of Labor, at the September 1 rally. “Get your act together, be a partner in our community, unlock the damn doors, return these workers, and sign the damn contract, or get out of town.”
According to the Level X Group’s website, the company purchased the IHG-branded hotel in 2021. In April 2023, according to Local 1, the hotel’s housekeepers won union recognition, but an initial contract has yet to be established.
According to CBS News, the hotel’s employees and Level X Group were scheduled to continue contract negotiations on September 3. However, representatives from the Level X Group did not return USAE request for comment or confirmation of negotiations by deadline.
Study Finds Hotel Management Companies Falling Behind in Guest Satisfaction
By Jordan Bradley
Third-party hotel management companies are not meeting guest standards when it comes to food and beverage quality and facility maintenance, according to a newly released J.D. Power study.
The J.D. Power 2025 North America Third-Party Hotel Management Guest Satisfaction Benchmark was released on September 3. Its findings suggest that rising operating costs are at the crux of the dissatisfaction.
“In hotels where the owner is not operating the property, guest satisfaction ultimately rests with third-party management companies that operate on behalf of hotel owners,” said Andrea Stokes, hospitality practice lead at J.D. Power.
To conduct the study, J.D. Power solicited survey responses from more than 5,000 hotel guests who had stayed at branded hotels between May 2024 and May 2025. The survey touched on seven aspects of the stay: guest room, hotel staff service, value for prices paid, checkin/check-out, hotel facility, food and beverage, and hotel connectivity. The survey was redesigned for this study, and included third-party hotel operators with more than 14,000 branded hotel rooms in their management portfolio.
The study found that guests are increasingly opting to dine at hotel restaurants, but “guest satisfaction declines significantly for quality of food, cleanliness of dining area(s), food and beverage presentation and ambiance,” according to J.D. Power.
The survey also found that guests were increasingly dissatisfied with the appearance of hotels’ exteriors and grounds, and the maintenance of public amenities at third-party managed hotels. However, satisfaction with staff service and guest room appearance remained “on par” with 2024 survey results, J.D. Power said.
The level of dissatisfaction the survey found indicates that costs to operate food and beverage outlets and perform facilities maintenance is on the rise, the company said.
“While these companies are all focused on bringing a level of standardization and consistency to the guest experience, we’re starting to see some challenges emerge where guest satisfaction is faltering, particularly for quality of food and beverage and hotel facilities upkeep, which can often indicate rising costs,” Stokes said.
The best ranked third-part management company was Atrium Hospitality, which scored 722 points out of 1,000. Atrium Hospitality manages a portfolio of 73 hotels across 25 states, including branded hotels from Hilton, Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, and more.
Falling shortly behind Atrium is Crescent Hotels and Resorts, which earned 708 points, followed by Columbia Sussex and Davidson Hospitality Group, with each earning 703 points.
Choose Lansing Partners with Wheel the World to Foster Accessible Travel
By Jonathan Trager
Michigan’s Choose Lansing announced on September 2 the successful completion of its accessibility mapping initiative in collaboration with Wheel the World, a leading accessible travel platform.
This project “marks a significant milestone in making Lansing a more accessible destination for travelers with disabilities by providing verified accessibility information for local businesses and attractions,” according to Choose Lansing.
Through the Destination Verified program, 55 key tourism listings, including 14 hotels, 30 attractions, and 11 restaurants across the region have been mapped, ensuring travelers with disabilities have reliable accessibility information. These listings are available on Wheel the World’s platform, offering detailed insights, allowing visitors to plan their trips with confidence.
We are excited to partner with Wheel the World to enhance accessible travel in our region,” said Julie Pingston, President & CEO of Choose Lansing. “This initiative is a natural extension of our commitment to making greater Lansing a welcoming destination for all travelers. By ensuring reliable accessibility information, we empower all visitors to enjoy the attractions, restaurants, hotels and other establishments that our destination has to offer.”
Accessible travel represents a $120 billion market, and destinations that prioritize accessibility position themselves as leaders in tourism innovation. Wheel the World’s global community of more than 150,000 travelers actively seeks destinations that provide transparent and reliable accessibility information.
“Working with destinations that are truly committed to making travel more accessible is what drives us,” said Arturo Gaona, Chief Partnership Officer at Wheel the World. “Lansing has been working on accessibility initiatives since 2018, and we are proud to contribute and amplify the incredible work they are doing. This partnership ensures that travelers with disabilities have access to accurate and verified accessibility information, making Lansing a more accessible and desirable destination.”
Travelers can explore Greater Lansing’s accessible listings as well as others at wheeltheworld.com
Advertorial
MGM Resorts: Venues Reimagined and Events Designed To Impress
MGM Resorts is setting a new meeting standard across its portfolio with bold new restaurant concepts, renovated guest rooms and suites, and immersive venues crafted to inspire and drive memorable moments for your attendees.
Bellagio: A New Chapter of Culinary and Design
MGM Resorts is committed to reinvesting in the luxury experience across its properties—none more so than Bellagio Las Vegas, a resort that continues to set the standard as a premier destination for events. The resort recently completed a stunning guest rooms and suite renovation designed to feature bespoke custom furnishings, hand-tufted carpets in florals inspired by the flowers at Lake Como, swivel chairs that let you turn and face The Fountains, multiple accent fabrics that elevate the space and hand painted mural of Lake Como on the headboards.
This fall, the resort will welcome a stunning new dining destination: CARBONE RIVIERA. In collaboration with Major Food Group (MFG)—a partner with whom MGM Resorts has already seen tremendous success through Carbone at ARIA and Sadelle’s at Bellagio—this exclusive concept promises to be the perfect union of all things great. CARBONE RIVIERA is rooted in the legacy of CARBONE and its acclaimed interpretation of Italian-American dining yet translates that signature vision into a seafood-focused experience.
ARIA: The Dining Destination Adds Another Icon
Coming December 2025, ARIA Resort & Casino will debut London’s acclaimed Michelin-starred restaurant Gymkhana as part of their dining collection. Inspired by the private clubs of India, Gymkhana is where high society gathers to dine, drink, socialize and play sport. A favorite of celebrities and critics alike, Gymkhana was founded by siblings Jyotin, Karam and Sunaina Sethi of JKS Restaurants. The cuisine takes the influence from the breadth of India and is renowned for its bold flavors and rich, layered spicing rooted in tradition.
MGM Grand: A Grand-Scale Transformation
Over at MGM Grand, 2025 marks a milestone year with major openings and a sweeping $300 million room renovation. The resort is transforming all 4,212 rooms and suites in its main tower and adding 110 new suites - solidifying MGM Grand’s commitment to evolving the guest experience, especially for business travelers.
But the transformation doesn’t stop at guestrooms. MGM Grand is reimagining the full campus experience to meet the evolving needs of modern event attendees.
• Palm Tree Beach Club, developed with DJ Kygo and Tao Group Hospitality, debuted this summer as a luxe new dayclub destination. Spanning 60,000 square feet, the venue brings a vibrant tropical energy with private cabanas, luxurious poolside lounging, and top-tier entertainment.
• In February, NETFLIX BITES™ opened its doors—a one-of-a-kind dining experience where dishes and drinks are inspired by hit Netflix series like Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Squid Game, and more.
• The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One in Vegas is now open daily at MGM Grand, featuring set recreations, replica props and costumes, and special behind the scenes content of the making of the show. Step into FRIENDS’™ most memorable moments, including Monica and Rachel’s apartment, Joey and Chandler’s recliner-filled living room, Central Perk, the famous fountain and orange couch, the “PIVOT!” scene, and of course, the Vegas wedding chapel made famous by Mrs. Ross and Mr. Rachel, plus more!
The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas: Bold Bites with Personality
Inside The Cosmopolitan, the culinary scene continues to thrive with the addition of two exciting new venues.
• Amaya Modern Mexican, which opened in January, brings soulful, coastal Mexican cuisine to The Strip. The vibe is energetic, the flavors bold, and the ingredients sustainably sourced.
• For something a bit cheekier, Naughty Patty’s joined the Block 16 Urban Food Hall this summer. This fast-casual burger concept, created in-house, is serving up crave-worthy classics with a mischievous twist. Saucy, bold, and made to satisfy, it’s the new go-to for indulgent eats with attitude.
Mandalay Bay: Music, Play, and Immersive Experiences
Mandalay Bay is now home to Bob Marley Hope Road—a vibrant Las Vegas production that celebrates the life, music, and legacy of Bob Marley in an entirely new & revolutionary way. Produced by Cedella Marley, the live show is the first of first of its kind on The Strip. It takes visitors on a moving journey through Bob Marley’s legacy of unity and “One Love,” blending multimedia storytelling with soul-stirring music. Performing nightly.
Looking for a team-building venue with a twist? Enter Swingers—a 40,000-square-foot adults-only crazy golf club that debuted in late 2024. With four outrageous courses, premium cocktail service, and customizable private spaces, Swingers redefines networking and nightlife for groups.
MGM Resorts continues to redefine what’s possible for events. From world-class dining and fully reimagined accommodations to immersive, one-of-a-kind entertainment, every venue and experience is thoughtfully designed to inspire, engage and deliver results.
Advertorial
Why Saratoga Springs is the Smart Choice for Meetings & Events
Saratoga Springs, New York, offers more than just charm—it delivers results. For meeting planners and event professionals seeking a seamless combination of accessible location, exceptional venues, and first-class hospitality, this “City in the Country” is proving to be a standout destination.
Located between New York’s Capital Region and the scenic Adirondacks, Saratoga Springs blends historic elegance with modern amenities and full-service hospitality. Whether planning a corporate retreat, trade show, association meeting, or incentive program, Saratoga’s venues, accommodations, and service providers are equipped to deliver a first-class experience. And at the center of it all is Discover Saratoga, a team of local experts dedicated to making meetings in Saratoga not only memorable, but incredibly easy to plan.
A Strategic, Accessible Location Saratoga’s prime location—just off I-87 and roughly three hours from New York City, Boston, and Montreal—makes it an easy destination for attendees traveling by car, rail, or air. Albany International Airport is only 30 minutes away, and two Amtrak stations (including one right in Saratoga) provide convenient rail access to and from major cities. Once in town, the city’s walkability and scenic downtown make getting around a breeze.
Full-Service Support from Local Experts
When working with Discover Saratoga, planners receive free, comprehensive support to streamline the planning process. The team offers venue sourcing, customized site visits, hotel proposals, RFP coordination, and even welcome bags for attendees—all at no cost. Whether you’re booking a large-scale convention or an intimate executive retreat, their deep local knowledge and hands-on service ensures your event is positioned for success.
Venues That Make an Impression
Saratoga Springs features more than 50 meeting venues, ranging from historic landmarks and museums to modern conference centers and luxury hotels. The Saratoga Springs City Center, adjacent to the Saratoga Hilton, offers 58,000 square feet of flexible meeting space and is ideal for large conventions and exhibitions. Meanwhile, unique options like the Hall of Springs, Canfield Casino, and National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame provide elegant backdrops that elevate any agenda.
Accommodations for Every Group
With nearly 32 lodging properties and 2,200+ guest rooms, Saratoga Springs can comfortably host groups of all sizes. Planners can choose from nationally recognized hotels, boutique inns, or charming bed and breakfasts, all offering convenient access to meeting venues and downtown attractions. Many properties also provide on-site meeting space and group dining options, making them ideal one-stop-shop solutions.
Built-In Entertainment & Culture
Outside of the meeting room, Saratoga Springs delivers an unmatched attendee experience. The city is home to world-class attractions like the Saratoga Race Course, where attendees can enjoy the thrill of horse racing in a historic grandstand setting. The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) brings nationally acclaimed performances in music, dance, and theater, while the surrounding Saratoga Spa State Park offers 2,300 acres of walking trails, mineral springs, golf, and more.
For those looking to explore between sessions, Saratoga’s safe, walkable downtown is filled with award-winning restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and coffee shops, all with a welcoming, small-town feel. Many restaurants also offer space for private group dinners and receptions—ideal for client entertainment or closing celebrations.
A History of Hospitality
Saratoga’s legacy as a resort town dates back over 150 years, rooted in the tagline: “Health, History, Horses.” But today, its real calling card is hospitality. Local business owners, hoteliers, and event professionals work together to provide a seamless experience for groups, and it shows. The city has hosted conferences for organizations ranging from regional associations to Fortune 500 companies—and many return year after year. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Discover Saratoga, which continues to play a vital role in shaping and supporting Saratoga’s thriving meetings and events industry.
Why Saratoga?
It Just Works. What sets Saratoga Springs apart isn’t just its setting or its venues—it’s the people and partnerships behind every event. With a commitment to customer service, free planning support, and a destination attendees love, Saratoga is uniquely positioned to deliver meetings that impress and inspire.
To start planning your next event in Saratoga, visit discoversaratoga.org/meetings or contact Discover Saratoga for a complimentary consultation.
Advertorial
Smarter. Leaner. More Accessible.
How AI-Powered Recording Is Transforming Conferences
Putting on a large-scale conference is already a massive undertaking. From securing speakers and sponsors to coordinating logistics and attendees, event managers have plenty to worry about.
Do you record the sessions? Recording every session should add value, not stress. Too often, it’s the opposite.
Traditional AV setups are expensive, complex, and labor-intensive. Capturing multiple tracks at once typically requires a large crew, racks of equipment, and days of planning. Even with a strong AV partner, things can go wrong: missing recordings, poor angles, or delayed delivery. The result? Valuable content is lost, and opportunities to extend the impact of your event vanish.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Advances in AI and automation have made it possible to rethink how conferences are recorded. Instead of treating video as a costly add-on, it can now become a core part of your event strategy — scalable, affordable, and reliable.
That’s exactly what SlidesLive is delivering with our AI-driven RoboCam technology.
• Fully automated tracking and recording – Cameras follow the speaker naturally, as if a human operator were behind the lens.
• Minimal on-site crew required – Our expert team installs, configures, and remotely monitors everything. One tech, not videographer, for every 4 rooms.
• Lower costs, faster setup, comprehensive coverage – Capture parallel tracks without breaking your budget. From recording and editing to hosting and travel, it’s all included.
• Equipment that fits in a carry-on – No heavy racks or bulky gear.
Hosting & post-production included – Videos are delivered quickly, with transcripts, summaries, and other enhancements available. The SlidesLive player offers dual-screen playback, letting viewers watch both the speaker and their slides side by side for the full experience.
Real-World Results
This isn’t just theory — SlidesLive has powered some of the largest AI conferences in the world. At ICML and Ai4, RoboCams recorded thousands of talks across multiple parallel tracks, giving organizers peace of mind while making content accessible to global audiences within days.
But it’s not only for major industry gatherings. Smaller organizations benefit just as much. For a one-day, single-room symposium, RoboCam provides the same professional-quality recording with a minimal footprint — no heavy crew, no complex logistics, and no extra AV overhead. Whether you’re running a flagship event or an intimate workshop, the technology scales to fit.
Working Hand-in-Hand with AV Teams
SlidesLive isn’t here to replace traditional AV. In fact, we often work alongside AV partners who focus on lights, sound, and stage production. While they ensure the room looks and sounds perfect for attendees, we make sure every moment is captured for audiences worldwide.
It’s a collaboration that delivers the best of both worlds: seamless on-site experiences and lasting digital value.
Leaner Logistics, Greater Reach
For organizers, this means less time managing AV crews and more focus on running the event. With RoboCam, one system can cover multiple rooms at once, making it ideal for conferences with concurrent sessions. The simplicity also allows organizers to think bigger: capture more talks, share them faster, and make event knowledge accessible to wider audiences. Instead of weeks of waiting, recordings can be online within days — extending the life and reach of your event far beyond the venue walls.
Accessible Knowledge, Long-Term Value
Conferences are an enormous investment of time, money, and expertise. Without recording, that investment ends when the lights go out. With SlidesLive, your event becomes a permanent knowledge library — one that can inspire, educate, and generate value long after the last session concludes.
As our CEO Vojta Ciml often says: “Stop thinking of recording as a cost. It should be an investment that protects and expands your most valuable commodity — knowledge.”
Ready to See It in Action?
Smarter conference recording doesn’t require massive budgets or large crews anymore. With SlidesLive RoboCams, you can capture more content, streamline your logistics, and give your audience access to knowledge that lasts.
Watch RoboCam in Action — and see how simple professional recording can be.
USAE Contacts
Ross E. Heller, Publisher-Emeritus
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
USAE, Inc.
PO Box 15009, Chevy Chase, MD 20825
703.898.3528 • ©2025 by USAE, Inc.
