New Jersey Rejects Atlantic City's Recovery Plan

THE WEEKLY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF ASSOCIATIONS, CVBs AND HOTELS

VOLUME 35, ISSUE 45 USAENOVEMBER 7, 2016 Battle for the Boardwalk: New Jersey Rejects Atlantic City’s Recovery Plan

By Todd McElwee

Atlantic City and New Jersey state officials are wrangling for the control of the seaside destination after the Depart- ment of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Nov. 1 rejection of the city’s Oct. 25, Five-Year Recovery plan. Two days later, Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian and the city submitted additional information to the Atlantic City’s Five-Year Recovery Plan, though threat of a state takeover still looms. “As promised, we have delivered Atlan- tic City’s supplemental information to the Five-Year Recovery Plan to the Commis- sioner of the Department of Community The 50th Annual Country Music Awards were staged on Nov. 2, at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Shown here (left to right): Grammy Affairs,” said Guardian. “This in-depth award winning songwriter, Tim Nichols; Stacie Standifer, Nichols’ wife; Sunny Spyridon; and Butch Spyridon, President & CEO, Nashville CVC. data and analysis was compiled with the Photo by Ann Richardson assistance of PFM; NW Financial; and McManimon, Scotland, and Baumann; whom together, have over 75 years of WFLA-TV Questions experience working with financially dis- tressed cities. We have taken the time to Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater Credit Card Spending go through each of the Commissioner’s concerns or questions and have pro- Story Is “Hatchet Job,” Says CVB Leader vided additional comprehensive information for clarification. We believe that By Jonathan Trager the credit cards during the eight-month game. The CVB also sponsors “dream after further review of this supplemental period ending in July 2016. The CVB has vacations” to Pinellas destinations for information, the Commissioner will have Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater is dis- a budget of $28 million. travel agents, travel writers, and meeting a better understanding of our Five-Year puting a local television news report that In his story, Douglas cited spending planners, he said. Recovery Plan, and will he be inclined focused on CVB employee expenditures such as $196,000 for “luxury travel” to The piece quotes from an interview to accept the plan as the most fiscally on county-issued credit cards. destinations as far away as South Africa with David Downing, Executive Director responsible way forward.” Mark Douglas, an investigative reporter and $15,000 to entertain potential clients of Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater, who Charles Richman, Commissioner, DCA for WFLA-TV, reported on Oct. 31 that during a Colorado Rockies stadium event said he’s proud of how the staff spends 32 staff members spent $1.3 million on and another one at a Minnesota Twins Please turn to page 7 Please turn to page 7 Starwood to Lay Off 163 Inside Questions Swirling Around Stamford HQ Employees Proposed D.C. Universal Due to Marriott Merger Paid Leave Legislation By Grant Broadhurst with the state, the remaining By Todd McElwee coalition of D.C. employers Stamford employees might be submitted the Employer Man- As part of the Marriott-Star- safe – for now. ASAE is one of many Wash- date bill to the mayor’s office wood merger which finalized The majority of eliminated ington, D.C. organizations un- and council as an alternative in September 163 people who positions are at high levels of certain about the next chapter to Mendelson’s proposal. work at Starwood’s Stamford, management: vice presidents, Page 3 of the Universal Paid Leave act Jim Clarke, CAE, Sr. Vice Connecticut headquarters will directors, and managers. Reg- Page 2 of 2016 (UPL), which provides President of Public Policy, have their jobs eliminated by ular workers, while impacted, Savannah Abandons Hotel private sector employees up to ASAE, told USAE a lot of un- mid-January. However, due Please turn to page 4 Moratorium Idea 12 weeks of paid leave for the certainty surrounds Mendel- to outstanding agreements birth of a child or to recover son’s next move. He added from an illness. the Employer Mandate bill Page 5 Legislation champion Coun- provides a clearer picture of Susan Robertson Becomes cil Chairman Phil Mendelson is what D.C. organizations can CIC Chair keeping alterations close to the expect. vest. According to the Wash- Introduced in February, the Page 5 ington Post, he is saying he latest edition of the bill in- New NY Law Targets Certain planned to submit a draft to the cludes a 1 % tax on employers Home-Sharing Companies district’s CFO on Nov. 1 for re- as a funding mechanism with view of its fiscal impact, but he the program managed by the won’t share it with Mayor Muriel city. Page 6 Bowser or the public until it is Individuals who earn an Gary Wheat Named CEO of brought up for a council vote. average weekly wage that is Macon-Bibb County CVB In October, ASAE and a Please turn to page 3 Page 2 USAE NOVEMBER 7, 2016 NEWSNEWS Savannah Abandons Hotel Moratorium Idea By Grant Broadhurst “bonus” story. However, while the Zoning ment, did not respond to requests for care and a long-term plan, Thomas said. Administrator, Shane Colbin, approved comment. Alderman Julian Miller asked Savan- Savannah, Georgia came close to the interpretation, and while the Historic Concerned by these two develop- nah Attorney Brooks Stillwell whether placing a moratorium on new hotels in Review Board approved the fifth floor ments, Alderman Van Johnson brought such a measure would be legal. Stillwell its historic district, but city leaders have in July, the Savannah Zoning Board of up the option of a moratorium on new said it would not be in general, and he reversed course amid legal concerns. Appeals denied the story. In a seven to hotels in the historic district on Sep. 29. confirmed this evaluation two weeks The moratorium was considered one vote, the city council agreed with Alderman Tony Thomas made a formal later, saying any moratorium would because two developers want to build the Savannah Zoning Board of Appeals. motion for a moratorium. have to be limited and defined – and hotels in historic Savannah, a move with West elm Hotels did not respond to re- “I don’t believe that Savannah has a there could still be legal challenges over which residents and most of the city quests for comment. strategic plan in place,” Thomas told property rights. Stillwell did not respond council disagreed. They worried about Liberty Tattnall Partners, the developer USAE, explaining he wanted a morato- to requests for comment, nor did Mayor how it would change the feel and quality behind the hotel planned for a vacant rium to give Savannah time to develop Eddie DeLoach. of life in the area. However, amid warn- lot on Tattnall Street across from the a plan and decide what it wants to look In Thomas’ opinion, however, some- ings that a moratorium could be illegal, Savannah Civic Center, had a simple like in 20, 50, or 100 years. “It was not thing more insidious was going on. “I the city council decided not to pursue zoning request: they wanted a bar. so much as an anti-business move no believe there was a heavy lobby by a moratorium on Oct. 27. Under current zoning, they can build a matter how much people are trying to the business industry and the business West elm Hotels, the developer behind hotel and restaurant on the site but food spin it,” Thomas added. community,” Thomas said, explaining, the hotel planned for Drayton Street, must be served alongside alcohol. Many “We are starting to lose our unique- “There’s politics in everything. When had requested a zoning ordinance residents feared that a hotel on the prop- ness to flagged brands from around I mentioned the word moratorium, the amendment that would clarify the site erty would be a nuisance and damage the world,” Thomas explained. “It’s not phones started ringing.” is commercial, which would have en- the character of the area. Harold Yellin, a bad problem to have.” It is, however, Nevertheless, the legality of such a abled the planned hotel to have a fifth the attorney representing the develop- something that must be handled with moratorium is questionable, although Thomas assured USAE the moratorium would have had no impact on hotels currently in the planning stage or under construction. “I have been told that a moratorium EXHIBITOR as originally proposed was illegal in the state of Georgia,” Joseph Mari- nelli, the president of Visit Savannah, KIOSKS told USAE. “I think the leadership of the city of Savannah is looking for new ways to manage the city’s growth in ON SALE NOW tourism development.” Marinelli added, “As new boutique hotels come into the market, as new restaurants come into PRESENTED BY the market, as new retail comes into the market: Whatever the destination is, our job is to market it.” Even if the council had decided to institute a limited, defined moratorium it would have been likely ineffective. “We would have been piecemealing this stuff,” Alderman John Hall, a Democrat and the only vote in favor of letting west elm Hotels build a fifth floor, toldUSAE . “I think we would have been defeating the purpose of the moratorium if we didn’t do a blanket moratorium.” Even so, Thomas doesn’t believe he lost. “I feel that I have achieved everything that I wanted to do by bringing it up,” Thomas said. “People are starting to talk.” Note, though, while Thomas was the first to make a formal motion, Johnson was the first to mention the idea. 2017 Hall, however, opposed the moratorium and is glad that it has fallen by the wayside. Showcase “I hear a lot of people talking about Destination Showcase has been completely revamped for 2017 the proliferation of hotels in the city, but we have to have places for people to to maximum opportunities for stay,” Hall said. “We’re talking heads meaningful connections and beds. That’s what will grow our city. MARCH 2 I don’t think we have enough rooms between planners and DMOs. Marriott Wardman Park because we have events all the time in Savannah.” He added, “I think we’re Reserve your booth before Washington, DC stifling free enterprise when we say the December 16, 2016 we’re going to throw up a moratorium.” advanced registration deadline However, Hall said it’s not over for hotels in the historic district, saying to receive discounted pricing. that the matter will probably come up again before the council. He offered a Contact Sarah Dickson clear idea of what the council should 202-835-4218 do, though: “Let the industry grow. It [email protected] will do all right by itself. We don’t need to regulate that. This is a destination city, and heads and beds – that’s what keeps our economy growing.” The question Savannah lawmakers must answer is whether they want to accept the growing pains or closely RESERVE TODAY destinationmarketing.org/destinationshowcase manage Savannah’s growth to keep its character as it is. NOVEMBER 7, 2016 USAE Page 3 HOTS

HOTS’ Requiem for the Royal Clarence feature as many artifacts as possible. Hotel… England’s oldest hotel is in ruins In this way, the Royal Clarence will rise after a 287-year run and a particularly from the ashes like a white phoenix – and nasty fire, and HOTS can’t help but feel a hopefully be fireproof like a phoenix too. tear welling up. HOTS had never actually 00000 heard of the Royal Clarence until fire began to roar through it, but that makes the HOTS’ Take on Celebrity Hotels… Re- grief no lighter. The hotel spent its long cently HOTS read in People that Jessica life in Exeter, England and in its rooms Alba and Martha Stewart are both – may- abolitionists met in the 1700s and 1800s be – considering opening competing and Fascists in the 1930s. But HOTS hotel brands. At a Martha Stewart hotel prefers to remember the good times like HOTS imagines every banquet table when Beatrix Potter visited and compli- would have a floral centerpiece and there mented the view. would be wildly convenient secure phone The poor building survived the Blitz lines HOTS could use to speak with its during WWII, so it’s an ignominious fate broker. HOTS’ main concern with a Mar- to be taken out by fire, which was fed for tha Stewart hotel, though, is that all the 24 hours by a broken gas main. The front sheets would come from K-Mart. wall of the hotel, still bravely spelling out A Jessica Alba hotel sounds nice, how- “Clarence Hotel,” must be demolished, ever. HOTS only remembers the actress but HOTS hopes as much as possible will from Fantastic Four, which HOTS actually be salvaged. The Andrews Brownsword didn’t much care for. But evidently the Hotels group says they will rebuild it, and hotel brand would be called Honest Ho- HOTS hopes that Royal Clarence Hotel II tels because Alba has several different On Oct. 28, the Greater Madison CVB’s Madison Area Sports Commission (MASC) announced will be a close replica of the original and product lines using the “Honest” label. the North American Ice Fishing Circuit would come to the city from Feb. 3-5, 2017. Shown And after all, HOTS would certainly prefer here (right to left) on a Lake Mendota dock: Brandon Holstein, MASC; Sharon Hovde, Clean

WEEKLY NEWS to put its head on a bed at an Honest Lakes Alliance; Jack Baker; President North American Ice Fishing Circuit; Amy Supple, COO OF ASSOCIATIONS CVBs AND Hotel over a Hotel of Hideous Lies any Edgewater Hotel; Andrew Nussbaum, Wisconsin Department of Tourism; Chris Armstrong, HOTELS USAE night of the week. MASC; Beth Donley, Clean Lakes Alliance; and James Tye, Clean Lakes Alliance. Publisher & Executive Editor Anne Daly Heller U.S. Travel Association’s Travel Trends Index [email protected] Publisher, CustomNEWS, Inc. Shows Muted Growth in September Ross E. Heller By Todd McElwee utive months. U.S. is still relatively slow compared [email protected] “The American travel economy has to domestic leisure travel, the fact that Vice President & General Manager The September edition of U.S. Travel thus far successfully weathered Zika, inbound travel remains positive is good James Heller Association’s Travel Trend Index (TTI) Brexit, a volatile presidential campaign news. First of all, it demonstrates that [email protected] shows while overall travel volume grew and a powerhouse U.S. dollar,” said the growing interest we’ve seen from in the month it accelerated at a slower Roger Dow, President & CEO, U.S. international travelers in visiting the Managing Editor year-over- year rate than in August. Travel. “Since 9/11, this industry has Jonathan Trager U.S. has actually resulted in booked TTI is an assessment tool, developed repeatedly proven itself to be one of our trips. Secondly, this growth is especially [email protected] in conjunction with Oxford Economics. economy’s sturdiest performers in terms impressive against the backdrop of this Association Editor It consists of the Current Travel Index of its ability to grow and create jobs in year’s challenging global economic Todd McElwee (CTI) measuring trips involving hotel the face of challenges.” environment. Overall, it’s a sign that [email protected] stays and/or flights each month, and Domestic business travel was the travel is faring well compared to other the Leading Travel Index (LTI), which lone segment to experience growth in trade-engaged sectors of the economy.” Hotel Editor gauges the likely average pace and September jumping from 51.1 to 52.1. Grant Broadhurst direction of business and leisure travel, Leisure travel dropped from 53.1 to [email protected] both domestic and international in- 51.8. September was the first time in Art Director bound. Numeric scores are assigned to more than a year business outpaced Paid Leave Diane Nichols every segment in current, three-month leisure with U.S. Travel analysts posit the Continued from page 1 [email protected] and six-month predictive indicators with sudden burst of energy was likely due equal to or less than double the District’s scores above 50 indicating growth, and in part to the shift of the Jewish holidays Circulation Director minimum wage ($10.50 per hour) shall scores below contraction. to October. Christy Pumphrey be entitled to payment equaling 90% of September registered a 51.8 CTI, International travel dipped from 51.1 [email protected] their average weekly wage rate. Those down from August’s 52.4 Three-month to 50.9. However, September’s tally still earning an average weekly wage greater Circulation Assistant LTI remained at 50.8 with the six-month betters the category’s six-month average than double the District’s minimum wage Paris Smith reading experiencing a slight uptick of 50.7. Both international LTIs however shall be entitled to payment equaling from 50.6 to 50.7. The LTI readings show drops below 50 while every do- 90% of double the District’s minimum Due to the high volume of photos received, indicate that U.S. travel volume is ex- mestic segment clears the mark. wage; plus 50% of the amount by which USAE cannot return any photographs or slides pected to grow at a year-over-year rate David Huether Sr. Vice President, Re- unless through a prearranged agreement with the the eligible individual’s average weekly of around 1.5% through March. The CTI search said in the report: “While growth Editorial Department. wage rate exceeds double the District’s has registered above 50 for 80 consec- To ensure publication, all Letters to the Editor in international inbound travel to the minimum wage with a $1,500 cap. The must include a telephone number and mailing Post reports the plan would cost between address in order to verify authenticity. $300-$400 million annually. Complete copies of USAE are available for all ASAE remains concerned with 12 paid subscribers online. Log onto www.usaenews. com and locate the log-in and password boxes. weeks off; bureaucrats and not organi- Specific log-in and password information is zations running the plan; and the need provided to subscribers via e-mail. To receive for an exemption for employers with 20 another copy, please contact the paper’s circula- or less employees. It has also pointed to tion department at (301) 951-1881 or via e-mail at [email protected]. D.C.’s own CFO, Jeffrey Dewitt believing the expected cost of the benefit would USAE (USPS 702-930, ISSN 0894-8194) is likely exceed anticipated revenue from published weekly except the week of Christmas the employer tax. Day by CustomNEWS, Inc., 4824 Edgemoor Lane, ASAE says the Employer Mandate bill Bethesda, MD 20814. Subscription rate is $135/ year; add $65 in Canada and Mexico. Periodical will be less expensive for employers. It postage paid at Bethesda, MD and at additional Celebrating 30 years of provides up to eight weeks of paid leave mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address benefits for eligible employees who take changes to USAE, 4824 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda, Global Sales Service leave for their own serious health con- MD 20814. dition or the serious health condition of www.usaenews.com Serving the Meeting & Incentive industry with Global Sales a child, spouse or domestic partner, or CustomNEWS, Inc. services since 1986 with a worldwide portfolio of luxury hotels to care for a new baby. Employees who 4824 Edgemoor Lane have worked for their employer for at least Bethesda, MD 20814 and resorts, cruise ships and a DMC Alliance. (301) 951-1881 • FAX: (301) 656-2845 12 months and for 1,250 hours would be ALHI.com eligible. The effective date would be one ©Copyright 2016 by CustomNEWS, Inc. Please turn to page 8

ALH41325 USAE QP ad.indd 3 1/7/16 5:32 PM Page 4 USAE NOVEMBER 7, 2016 NEWSNEWS Westin Nashville Celebrates Grand Opening By Grant Broadhurst with needed first class room inventory, look forward to hosting a variety of itself was just that: a celebration with which makes us even more competi- social events, weddings and galas for live music from Brett Young and Da- Visitors to the Nashville Music City tive.” our local clientele. vid Nail. Speeches were given by the Center now have a second across-the- Indeed, the Westin “With over 20,000 heads of the two companies that own street hotel option in addition to the Nashville’s impact “The Westin opening square feet of meet- and manage the Westin Nashville as Omni Nashville Hotel. will be felt most by further strengthens our ing space and 453 well as a representative from Marriott: On Oct. 27 the 454-room Westin travelers attending guest rooms includ- Paul Wischermann, president and Nashville held its Grand Opening conferences and convention/meetings ing suites, meeting CEO of Wischermann Partners; Liam celebration. In addition to providing other professional package,” Butch Spyridon, planners looking for a Brown, president, North America, of more rooms for the city, it also offers functions. the President & CEO luxury and convenient select and extended stay lodging and three new luxury wining and dining “Our meeting experience for their owner franchise services at Marriott venues. Conference goers will find space options, in of the Nashville Convention programs will now International; Kevin Fee, managing the hotel particularly convenient and addition to our prox- & Visitors Corporation, have more options in director and cofounder of Castlerock comprehensive. imity to the Music Nashville. Highlights Asset Management; and Seamus Ross, “The Westin opening further strength- City Center, makes told USAE. of the Westin Nash- managing director and cofounder of ens our convention/meetings pack- it ideal for meeting ville meeting space Castlerock Asset Management. age,” Butch Spyridon, the president planners and citywide conventions include a grand ballroom, two junior “We hope to provide our guests and & CEO of the Nashville Convention & to utilize our space for their program ballrooms and a beautiful board- locals with not only the service and Visitors Corporation, told USAE. “In needs,” Kellie Davie, the director of room overlooking the skyline on our comfort they expect, but an experience conjunction with the Omni, we have marketing and public relations for the 27th floor” she said. they will treasure for years to come,” bookended the Music City Center Westin Nashville, told USAE. “We also The Grand Opening Celebration Davie said.

Why? If the number of employees at the Greenbrier Launches Campaign with Starwood/Marriott Stamford office drops below 400, Star- Continued from page 1 wood – now Marriott – must pay the state over $16 million for the following reason: Money Received after Flood mostly came off unscathed according Starwood received $7 million in loan to Felicia McLemore, senior director forgiveness for a $9.5 million loan the state By Jonathan Trager The CVB is focusing a great deal on of global corporate affairs at Marriott gave it in 2009. A loan on which Starwood advertising on social media such as International. did not have to pay anything – neither Five months after floodwaters devas- Facebook to get the word out, along McLemore told USAE “the Marriott/ principal nor interest – until 2019. tated much of the county, the Greenbri- with an aggressive public relations Starwood integration is in full swing, and Starwood was also given a $5 million er CVB has unveiled a new marketing push for articles about the area, said with that comes the creation of new posi- loan as an incentive to increase employ- campaign, revving up its efforts to get Dense. Targeted markets include D.C., tions along with the elimination of some ment in 2014, a loan on which it has been visitation back to normal. Columbus, Richmond, Roanoake, and redundancies. The majority of impacted paying interest only. “Simply Get Away” is the theme of Charleston. associates were made aware of the sta- In addition, Starwood received millions the new initiative, which features a “[Business has] been down, but we tus of their position some time ago. When in tax credits from the state, and the new “Welcome to the Greenbrier Val- are recovering,” Dense said. “We’re we announced the merger in November company would have to pay back $1.7 ley” video. It may be seen on a newly not 100%, but each month that passes 2015, we said that there would be some million dollars on those, plus 7.5 percent created Webpage, simplygvb.com. as we’ve been trying to work to get the duplication of functions – mostly at the of any tax credits it receives between now The video was shot soon after the word out, visitors are definitely coming corporate level.” and when (and if) it lowers employment in county commission voted in July at back. But we’re not where we’d nor- “While we don’t have an exact number Stamford to below 400. the urgent request of the CVB to loan mally be this time of year.” of jobs that will be impacted in Stamford It all adds up to over $16 million in $450,000 to the organization. Not all The CVB also plans to introduce a at this time, we will know more about incentives that Marriott, now the owner of that money is being spent on the revamped website in mid-2017. The staffing decisions as we continue the of Starwood, would have to repay. Which current campaign; a portion of it will site had been budgeted for this fiscal integration process,” McLemore said. explains why it might make financial be spent in the spring, including on year, but Dense said after the flood “we “We anticipate having a presence in sense for Marriott to maintain a presence FAM trips, Dense noted. knew it wasn’t going to be possible.” Stamford for the foreseeable future; we in Stamford until 2019 when the deals Dense said dozens of stakeholders In addition, ShopGBV, a public will begin to explore longer term options expire. “We are aware of the terms of and citizens came to an open house relations push to encourage people and needs now that we have completed the economic development loan and will at the visitors center for a presentation to come to the county to do their hol- the acquisition.” address it as we finalize our occupancy of the video and to network. iday shopping, will launch on Nov. 1, The Hartford Courant reported that plans for the Stamford office,” McLemore “There had been so much attention according to the Greenbrier Register about 440 jobs remain at the former told USAE. to getting this money,” Kara Dense, Herald. It will focus, for example, on Starwood headquarters, and Marriot has As for the 163 employees whose jobs Executive Director of the Greenbrier Lewisburg’s holiday festival events a strong incentive to keep employment in got eliminated, they have been told Marri- County CVB, told USAE. “We wanted and White Sulphur Springs’ holiday Stamford at 400 jobs or more – at least ott will be posting new jobs opportunities to make sure everybody could see open house. until 2019. over the next several weeks. what we were doing.”

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In late October, Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston/Brookline celebrated the property’s opening in Brookline. Shown here (left to right): Cathy Doran, Sr. Vice President, Greater Boston CVB (GBCVB); Pat Moscaritolo, President & CEO, GBCVB; Kevin Buchanan, General @USAENEWS Manager, Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston/Brookline; and Luisa Lawrence-Riseman, Di- rector of Sales, Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston/Brookline. NOVEMBER 7, 2016 USAE Page 5 NEWSNEWS Susan Robertson Becomes CIC Chair By Todd McElwee tions. Top priorities include increasing programs,” said Fedchock. “Under the community engagement, and building board’s leadership in 2016, the CIC staff Susan Robertson, CAE, Executive Vice on programs that define, set standards delivered on the successful growth of President of ASAE and President of the for and promote the professionalization those programs, and I am confident that ASAE Foundation has assumed the CIC of our industry.” the new board will continue to build upon chair during a transitional phase for the In March, CIC will end its relationship those successes.” organization. In addition to overseeing with Talley Management Group (TMG) A renewed focused on the CMP pro- CIC’s hunt for a new management firm following eight years with the New Jer- gram is a top priority for Robertson. She Robertson told USAE she has placed an sey firm. Robertson and CIC Immediate said the possibility of expanding the emphasis on the CMP program, global ef- Past Chair Bonnie Fedchock told USAE credential globally is being explored, forts and leveraging the combined knowl- in October the organization is poised for though differences in international stan- edge of the organization’s members. growth and expansion in key areas, and dards do exist. Robertson said: “The Convention In- the board’s decision to align with another Robertson also wants to leverage the dustry Council continues to be a leader management firm is based on that need. collective knowledge of CIC’s member- and driving force for the growth and Originally Robertson was slated to ship. She wishes to explore how the development of the meetings, events, guide a task force to develop the RFP and organization’s shared insights and best convention, and exhibitions industry. evaluate responding firms. Fedchock practices can enhance its advocacy The excellent programs delivered by will now lead those efforts as Robertson for the value of meetings. An updated CIC focus on the core of our industry: said the responsibility of piloting the task Economic Significance Study and par- The premier certification for the industry, force combined with serving as chair was ticipation in the Meetings Mean Business Susan Robertson sustainability initiatives, best practices simply too much. She added progress is Coalition and Global Meetings Industry and standards, as well as research and being made. Day are being employed to deliver the ciation, Kimberly Miles, CMP, CAE, Amer- education. “As our industry as a whole is evolv- industry’s message. ican Hotel & Lodging Association, Martin She added: “In the coming year, CIC ing, it is crucial for the organization to Kevin Hinton, CEO, Society for Incen- Sirk, International Congress & Convention will expand its capacity to serve the di- continue the exchange of insights and tive Travel Excellence (SITE) has been Association, and Tina Wehmeir, CAE, verse needs of the key stakeholders on knowledge among the leading indus- elected chair-elect. Cathy Breden, CMP, CMP, AMC Institute, round out the vol- our council, by launching a refreshed try organizations and to strategically IAEE; Paul Van Deventer, MPI, Kimberly unteer members. Karen Kotowski, CAE, brand along with new strategic direc- grow and develop CIC initiatives and Gishler, Corporate Event Marketers Asso- CMP, CEO, CIC, is the executive officer. New N.Y. Law Targets Certain Home-Sharing Rentals By Grant Broadhurst ing,” according to a transcript obtained and online travel agencies (OTAs) has Hilton launched an ad campaign called by investment news company Seeking highlighted the challenge these competi- “Stop Clicking Around” to encourage di- On Oct. 21, N.Y. Gov. Andrew Cuomo Alpha. tors are bringing to many segments of the rect booking; their largest advertisement signed into law a bill targeting certain “With less Airbnb options, it can cause hospitality industry not only in New York effort ever. Starwood Hotels advertises if kinds of Airbnb rentals. The law intro- a supply and demand issue in terms of but around the country. a direct book guest finds a cheaper price duced penalties for Airbnb hosts who an increasing demand for hotel rooms, OTAs send customers to hotels; but within 24 hours of check-in, Starwood will advertise short-term rentals of entire which in turn could drive prices up for charge a hefty fee. Add to the competitive match it and give a 20 percent discount. apartments that were already illegal un- hotels,” Hank Freid, CEO of the Impulse mix: home-sharing companies like Airbnb Considering an OTA would charge about der New York law. Group, a New York company dealing in and HomeAway. that in commission anyway, it’s a safe bet While it’s not a draconian law that will boutique hotels, told TravelPulse. “How- And now there’s the potential for Starwood. eliminate all home sharing in New York, ever, currently in New York, pricing for home-sharing companies and OTAs Expedia, one of the largest and most Mike Barnello, the chief executive of hotels is actually the lowest that it has could start working more closely together. well-known OTAs, denies it has had a LaSalle Hotel Properties, told investors been in years, so regulations could help First, consider OTAs. negative effect on hotels and that direct in a conference call that the law “should to balance out the market and help bring Spending a few hours watching televi- booking has had a negative effect on its be a big boost in the arm for the [hotel] pricing back to where it was years ago.” sion tells part of the story: Commercials business, however. business, certainly in terms of the pric- This recent news about home-sharing for companies like Kayak, Trivago, Price- “In terms of direct bookings, we have line, and Expedia are almost as common not seen an impact,” Amanda Graham, as ads for car insurance and beer. The list Expedia’s senior manager of industry re- DMAI News goes on and on of OTAs and meta-search lations, told USAE. “Our customer tends travel companies promising the best to be a different type of guest – we are an By Jonathan Trager talk about what the association is doing room at the best price. What they don’t incremental channel for hotels.” as a result of ongoing discussions with announce: they also take commissions of “We really consider hotels our partners, DMAI held its Finance, Operations & DMAC, the Canadian equivalent of between 10% and 25% off the top from rather than the competition,” Graham Technology Summit in Kansas City in DMAI, said Welsh. He said they spoke hotels. In 2015 according to Morgan said when asked to clarify the relation- late October, drawing 110 professionals about creating an education model for Stanley Research these commissions ship. compared to the 77 who attended the DMOs, a standardized DMAP product, totaled an estimated $16 billion, Even so, hotels are using direct book- Summit in Los Angeles last year. DestinationNext research, and the Striking back are hotels themselves, ing perks, campaigns, revamped loyalty Kansas City is a vibrant market and Event Calculator, among other things. encouraging direct booking on their programs and discounts to lower the role did a great job of hosting the meeting, “We also had a chance to talk with websites through perks like free WiFi, of OTAs in the booking business. Even said Don Welsh, President & CEO of many DMOs about challenges they’re guarantees and campaigns. In February Please turn to page 7 DMAI, who attended the Summit along having,” he said. “From an advocacy with Jack Johnson, Chief Administrative standpoint we’ll do what we can to Officer and Sr. Vice President, Public support their efforts when it comes to Policy. They addressing funding challenges.” “It’s a time I think for these professionals to come together once a year *** within their disciplines and share best Welsh also spoke at the Visit Mis- practices and ideas,” Welsh told USAE. sissippi Gulf Coast Annual Meeting “Based on the feedback we got by the in Gulfport in late October. About 200 attendees, it was a step in the right attended the organization’s annual direction. We’re going to do everything meeting. we can to build on it for future years.” Welsh said last year the Coast hosted a total of 5.8 million visitors. *** He’s confident that with the tremen- Prior to visiting Kansas City, Welsh dous efforts of Renee Areng, Execu- and Alison Best, Executive Vice Presi- tive Director of Visit Mississippi Gulf dent of Member Engagement, attended Coast, and her team they’ll reach and participated in the Travel Alberta a goal of 7 million visitors by 2020. Industry Conference in Banff. About “Many times when I talk about evolving 700 people representing more than 40 new models for DMOs, the good news destination-marketing organizations is they have already been doing a lot of Kristen Jarnagin, President & CEO, Discover Long Island, unveils the bureau’s new name were in attendance. those,” said Welsh. “They couldn’t have and logo on Nov. 2, at the Theatre for the Performing Arts in Patchogue. The bureau was DMAI was invited to come up and been more hospitable.” formerly known as the Long Island CVB & Sports Commission. Page 6 USAE NOVEMBER 7, 2016 INDUSTRYINDUSTRY MOVERSMOVERS

Charles Young has been selected as Carla McGlynn has joined the Ashe- Sam Toscano, CMP, has been ap- Danielle Foisy has been named Direc- General Manager of the Hyatt Centric ville CVB as the National Sales Manager pointed Sales Manager for the 1000 tor of Industry Relations at Transportation Waikiki Beach. Young has more than 20 for the Northeast market. McGlynn has Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton, N.Y. He Management Services (TMS). A longtime years of hospitality experience oversee- more than 20 years’ experience in the previously spent nearly eight years as member of the hospitality industry Foisy ing several mid- to large-scale properties hospitality industry, most recently having Sales Manager for Turning Stone Resort has also worked for DMAI, Business in Hawaii, Australia and Florida. He also worked in sales for the Greensboro, N.C. and Casino and serves as President of Events Canada, a division of Destination helped open the Vive Hotel Waikiki. He’s CVB. She also has resort and conference the Board of Directors for the Eastern Canada, and Tourism Whistler. She was a board member of the Hawaii Lodging center experience, has owned her own Great Lakes Chapter of MPI. Toscano is named an ASAE Fellow in 2013 and has and Tourism Association - Oahu Chapter, meeting and event company and has also a hospitality advisory board mem- chaired the Meetings and Expositions serving as a member of the organization’s worked as a corporate meeting planner. ber at Monroe Community College in Council. She also served as Managing government affairs committee. Rochester. Director of the Meetings Industry Fund.

Gary Wheat Named CEO of Macon-Bibb County CVB

By Jonathan Trager immensely.” “He has demonstrated considerable That history includes being a hotbed success in developing strategies to Gary Wheat, who helped launch the of music from luminaries such as Otis grow not only leisure and cultural tour- Visit Aurora (Colo.) CVB in 2010 and Redding, the Allman Brothers, Little ism but also healthcare and transpor- currently serves as its President & Richard, and Wheat’s personal favorite, tation industry-related tourism,” said CEO, will lead the Macon-Bibb County Jason Aldean. In addition, it represents Welsh. “We are excited to see what he (Ga.) CVB in the same capacity. a chance to return to his southern roots, will accomplish in our region.” Selected by a six-member search as the Mississippi native’s parents still Wheat, who earned a Bachelor’s and committee, includ- live in that state. Master’s of Science in Sports Adminis- ing CVB officers, Wheat, who was Within five years af- tration from the University of Southern industry represen- ter starting Visit Au- Mississippi, began his tourism career as tatives and public selected by a six-member rora in 2010, Wheat Director of Sports Development with the officials, Wheat will search committee, and the organization Tupelo (Miss.) CVB in 1999, relocating to start his new job on including CVB officers, were recognized with Iowa in 2004 to lead the Waterloo CVB. Jan. 3. He succeeds two national awards. In 2008, he was recruited to establish Monica Smith, who industry representatives, They increased hotel the Longmont Area Visitors Associa- left earlier this year and public officials, will occupancy by 15% tion in Colorado, where he served until to become the new start his new job on Jan. 3. and growing lodgers’ launching Visit Aurora in 2010. Vice President of tax revenues by dou- An outdoorsman and sports fan who Sales & Services for ble digits for several “tears up golf courses,” Wheat has been Visit Jacksonville. consecutive years. active in Rotary International, Special “I’m very excited by this opportu- Susan Welsh, President of the Ma- Olympics, and the Colorado Freedom nity,” Wheat told USAE. “Macon is con-Bibb County CVB Board, called Memorial, as well as serving on Boards Gary Wheat a well-established organization and Wheat “a change agent who has estab- for the Aurora Symphony Orchestra, has a very successful track record, lished and grown destination marketing Aurora Cultural Arts District, Chamber sador for tourism and contributing to and to be a part of a destination that organizations in two regions that have of Commerce, Leadership Aurora, and the economic growth of the Central has so much rich history and culture assets and challenges that are similar Cycle of Hope. Georgia region,” said Wheat. is something I’m looking forward to to those in Macon-Bibb County.” “I look forward to being an ambas- Nicki Grossman Joining ADEPT Strategy, Public Relations Firm

By Jonathan Trager Grossman pointed out that she isn’t she said. “I have gotten to know my permitted by county law to do actual lob- husband and grandchildren again.” Having retired earlier this year as bying. However, she’ll be an advocate in Grossman served on the Board of Di- President & CEO of the Greater Fort various forums for signage at the airport rectors for the South Florida Super Bowl Lauderdale CVB, Nicki Grossman is now and especially the convention center Host Committee, the Federal Reserve taking on a part-time role with a strategy hotel and expansion project, which she Bank of Atlanta’s Travel and Tourism and public relations firm. called “near and dear” to her heart. Advisory Council, American Coastal Grossman, who spent 20 years with “That’s definitely part of my DNA” Coalition Board of Directors, and the the CVB, told USAE she plans to start in said Grossman. “I’m thrilled to have an Florida Commission on Tourism. She her role with ADEPT in late winter. The opportunity to be part of it, even on the was elected 2007–2008 Chair for VISIT company’s clients include the develop- perimeter. Not that I haven’t been doing FLORIDA. ers of the Broward Convention Center it for 30 years, but now I can do it as an An inductee to the VISIT FLORIDA and Hotel Expansion plan and the City of outsider.” DMAI Tourism Hall of Fame, Grossman Fort Lauderdale. After ADEPT contacted her and they was elected to the Hollywood, Fla., Com- “The people at ADEPT are smart and had a meeting, Grossman was satisfied mission in 1978 and was elected to the home grown and care a lot about Bro- they understood her primary role is to be Broward County Commission in 1982. ward County,” said Grossman. “It’s nice with her family. She’s married to Circuit Court Judge Mel to see the creativity and excitement and “I left the best job in the world to spend Grossman and has three daughters and enthusiasm of this marketing company.” time with the best family in the world,” eight grandchildren. Nicki Grossman NOVEMBER 7, 2016 USAE Page 7 NEWSNEWS

have banned Airbnb outright. Other Airbnb are competition. day, weekend, etc., they are going to get a New N.Y. Law areas have curbed Airbnb to varying Airbnb hasn’t made an alliance with an complementary mix of hotel search results Continued from page 5 degrees and in varying ways. In early Au- OTA – yet – but two of its smaller cousins, and/or vacation rental results based on if successful – or if OTAs were never gust, Chicago passed a 25,000-word or- HomeAway and FlipKey, are owned by a number of different presentations and a threat to the bottom line in the first dinance on Airbnb so incomprehensible Expedia and TripAdvisor, respectively. logic,” Dara Khosrowshahi, the president place – home-sharing companies like that Shorge Sato, a Chicago real estate When one searches vacation rentals on & CEO of Expedia, told investors on Oct. Airbnb have become another kind of lawyer recognized by Super Lawyers either site, home-sharing listings appear 27, according to a transcript on Expedia’s competition for hotels. as a top-rated attorney, couldn’t make alongside more traditional results. website. Airbnb offers rooms in people’s homes sense of it and said it was “impossible to “Given the traveler demand for vaca- HomeAway and FlipKey did not re- for as little as $23 a night for a room with comply with,” reported Watchdog.org. In tion rentals, we are eager to provide our spond to requests for comment, and a private restroom, cable, WiFi, and comparison, Chicago’s hotel ordinance customers with a variety of options to while Airbnb responded with links to news kitchen access in a (presumably) nice, is only about 1,000 words in length. meet their needs,” Graham said. “We’ve articles and a letter detailing Barnello’s middle-class suburb. Or, for the higher The reasons for banning or regulat- been partnering with HomeAway on of- comments, it did not address the question end traveler, lovely rooms or even entire ing away Airbnb usually come down fering vacation rentals on the Expedia. of whether it has plans to work together apartments in swank neighborhoods for to worries Airbnb will increase traffic in com site for a couple years; today that with an OTA despite requests. hundreds of dollars a night. “Live like a neighborhoods and reduce the quality of experience is visible through a ‘Vacation However, Delta Air Lines announced local for less” is a compelling argument, life. Some also blame it for increasing the Rentals’ tab on the homepage.” on Nov. 2 it is forming a partnership with but Airbnb guests pay an average of cost of affordable housing, which was Going forward, Expedia plans to inte- Airbnb that will enable SkyMiles Members $148.42 per night compared to hotel the main driver behind the New York law. grate HomeAway more deeply into the to earn miles on Airbnb stays if they book guests who pay an average $119.11 per However, although Airbnb’s customers Expedia experience. through Delta.com/airbnb. This relation- night, according to a study by STR, a are generally a different type of traveler “And what we are talking about is a ship follows Airbnb’s similar partnerships research company for the hotel industry. than those staying at a hotel – especially much more fundamental kind of inte- with Virgin America and Qantas. Other regions of the country have tak- a four- or five-star hotel – they are trav- grated experience where someone who What the future of hospitality entails re- en harsher steps against Airbnb. Many elers who, without Airbnb, would have comes to an Expedia or a Hotels.com mains to be seen, but hotels clearly have areas, such as Palisades Park, Cresskill, few options other than staying in a hotel. and is searching for hotels, depending much more than high OTA commissions and Englewood Cliffs in New Jersey, In this, home-sharing companies like on length of stay, depending on week- to worry about. governing board, recognizes the value Bridges also took issue with the phrase in. We’re a public agency operating as a Visit St. Pete of what we do. Our action plans and “luxury travel” highlighted in the piece. sales and marketing agency, and if you Continued from page 1 budgets are presented every year at a “While we provide first-class experienc- look at other [DMOs], we’re no different money. He called it “an amazing invest- public meeting, discussed and voted es for our clients, [Visit St. Petersburg/ than those guys,” said Douglas. ment when you consider what the return on by the board in public. Every dollar Clearwater] staff purchase only coach Douglas doesn’t doubt that signifi- on that investment is every year.” collected from the bed tax is spent wisely fare tickets and accommodations are cantly more people visit the destina- “Downing insists that staying at swanky and that is why the St. Pete/Clearwater dictated by or included in the cost of the tion as a result of sales and marketing hotels like the Fairmont, Four Seasons, area continues to be a leader in the state, show or event we are attending,” he said. efforts. However, he said reporting on Waldorf Astoria and the Bellagio or with record visitation year after year.” In an interview with USAE, Douglas said return-on-investment issues during a entertaining clients at the world’s finest Leroy Bridges, Media & Interactive everything he reported was factual and 40-year journalism career has made him restaurants and throwing liquor-laced Director, clarified that “Staff credit cards fair, and he’s sorry Downing has “hard “somewhat skeptical of those claims,” parties from Napa Valley to Cape Town is are used for a wide range of departmental feelings” about the story. which he believes are inflated to an all part of the tourism marketing game,” expenditures—including marketing, trav- “I’m a little disappointed in Mr. Down- extent. wrote Douglas. el, client events, and trade show booths/ ing, because we gave him all sorts of USAE asked Douglas whether he rec- Downing told USAE the piece was registrations, which can run as much as opportunities to put things in context and ognizes a difference between property inaccurate and lacked context, having $100,000 each, so it’s easy to paint a perspective,” said Douglas. “Maybe he’s taxes paid by local residents or occu- used only seconds of his responses distorted picture with no detail.” getting some heat for the story, but I don’t pancy taxes paid by tourists. culled from an hour-long interview. He added that Pinellas County benefits know. I don’t discredit the work product “I’ve heard that argument time and He then offered the following statement: from employees’ use of the credit cards, of the agency; [the story] was just a look again,” he said. “They say it’s just tourists “Unfortunately, the story didn’t show as the locality receives $300,000 a year at how they spend the money.” paying, but on the other hand tourists the full context of what tourism truly does in rebates that goes into its general fund. The reporter said he spent at least 20 don’t have any say in that tax, they don’t for the St. Pete/Clearwater area, like the Therefore, CVB employees have “a man- hours of research preparing for the inter- have a voice to say whether it’s an appro- more than 100,000 jobs it provides. The date to use the card as much as we can.” view with Downing. He thought Downing priate tax, and they certainly don’t have $27 million we spend on tourism market- “The amount that goes on the credit was also well prepared and “gave pretty a say on what that money is spent on.” ing comes back 300-times more in $9 card can vary greatly, since we are direct- sound answers from his point of view” to Douglas said he has learned Visit St. billion of economic impact. That return on ed by the county to use the card at any the questions. Petersburg/Clearwater’s spending isn’t investment shows the power and value of vendor that will accept it—from a cup of “Unfortunately, I don’t have an hour highly unusual in the destination-mar- responsible tourism marketing. coffee for a journalist to a $100,000 trade on the 6 o’clock news to tell a story,” keting industry. Yet he was “somewhat “The Tourist Development Council, my show booth,” he said. Douglas said. taken aback and wide-eyed in how much Douglas said there was no implication money [DMOs] spend from taxpayers, When asked about Meet AC Hetrick of illegality on behalf of the CVB, only the and how they spend it.” said he did not expect the bureau would question of whether the bureau’s spend- “These guys are really good at sales Atlantic City be affected since it is funded by the Ca- Continued from page 1 ing is an appropriate use of tax dollars. and marketing,” said Douglas. “But it’s sino Reinvestment Development Authority “One of the themes [Downing] left me my job to monitor how tax dollars are said in the report: “I would have much (CRDA). with is, ‘Look, this is how we operate, this spent, and I don’t care if it’s hotel tax or preferred to leave management of the Meet AC declined to comment. is how we roll, this is the business we’re property tax; it’s all public money. “ city’s recovery in the hands of its munic- Atlantic City is approximately $500 ipal officials. However, I am constrained million in debt. The city’s plan sliced the by the plan the city has placed before budget from $262 million in 2015 to $207 me. The enormous problems confronting million by 2021 and would eliminate 100 the city did not occur overnight. City lead- city employees, including through early ership has had ample time to improve the retirement. Selling Bader Field to the city’s financial condition, yet has avoided city’s water authority for $110 and paying doing so in any meaningful way.” the Borgata Hotel & Casino $103 million City Council President Marty Small, Sr. of the $160 million its owed in tax refunds did not respond to USAE’s messages. were other provisions. Christian Hetrick, a reporter for the This is the way forward for Atlantic Press of Atlantic City told USAE the City,” Guardian said when announcing state was at the “goal line” in terms of the plan. “Not only did we find a way a takeover and was skeptical the new not to raise taxes on the residents of At- submission would make any difference. lantic City, but we also outlined how we He said overseeing the takeover process will steadily decrease our dependence would be the DCA’s Local Finance Board on State aid over the coming years,” (LFB), which is scheduled to meet on Nov. Guardian said announcing the plan. 9. And while no agenda had been set he “This plan creates a win-win for everyone. On Nov. 1, HelmsBriscoe presented a painting to the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Con- expected the Atlantic City matter to be We are very proud to present this plan, vention Center in recognition of their hospitality and support of the 2016 HelmsBriscoe included either then or in December. and we anticipate its full approval by Annual Business Conference and HB Cares charity, HopeKids. The artwork was created by nine-year-old Arizona HopeKid, Angelita Tavizon and will be displayed in the Phoenix Con- The “Municipal Stabilization and Re- the Commissioner of the Department of vention Center. Shown here (left to right): Dave Chapman, Sr. Vice President, HelmsBriscoe covery Act,” allots LFB a series of 26 civic Community Affairs.” and National Board Member, HopeKids; Mary Beth Nobs, Director of Global Accounts, powers including employment, negotia- Philly.com reports the Borgata Vice Ritz-Carlton; Tavizon; Peter Shelly, Executive Vice President, HelmsBriscoe; Phoenix Mayor tions and financial matters. Hetrick said President & General Counsel Joe Corbo Greg Stanton; John Chan, Director, Phoenix Convention Center & Venues; and Steve Moore, LFB could assume as many as it chooses. had no comment on the state’s decision. President & CEO, Visit Phoenix. Page 8 USAE NOVEMBER 7, 2016 NEWSNEWS PCMA Unveils 20 in Their Twenties Class of 2017 By Todd McElwee

The fourth class of 20 in their Twen- ties recipients has been announced by PCMA. Supported by the PCMA Educa- tion Foundation the program is designed to engage the best and brightest young meetings industry professionals. “I am thrilled to be named to PCMA’s 20 in Their Twenties list,” Holly Lammert, National Sales Manager, Explore St. Louis told USAE. “I want to thank not only PCMA for this honor, but the Explore St. Louis leadership and my colleagues who have been so supportive of my efforts to grow professionally and sell our amazing destination to clients across the country.” Honorees receive complimentary registration to attend Convening Leaders Tessa Kalfell Eric Kincaid Holly Lammert this January in Austin and PCMA Edu- cation Conference in New York in June. two years with Destination DC, I’ve come This year’s class includes: • Katherine Sinnen, CMP, American Recipients are also granted a year of to understand the value of peer-to-peer • Derek Anderson, Washington State Orthopaedic Association PCMA membership, Convening Lead- support and the power of an organi- Association of Counties • Nichole Steele, Experience Grand ers travel expenses and membership zation to shape an individual’s career. • Vanessa E. Bass, CMP, HMCC Rapids and registration discounts for the next PCMA sets the national standards for • Alexandra Deering, Intuitive Surgical • Naida S. Struyk, CMP, National two years. A trio of mentoring sessions the meetings and exhibitions industry • Matthew B. Fox, Meeting Contract Manager Association with industry leaders and recognition so I’m excited to further my professional Management Services, Inc. • Wei Nei Tan, Sarawak Convention at Convening Leaders and in Convene development with their mentorship.” • Christine Frye, CTA, National Trade Bureau, Sarawak Magazine and other PCMA communica- Tessa Kalfell, Convention Services Productions • Lindsey Walker, Visit Anaheim tions is also included. Manager, Visit Seattle said: “I am honored • Tessa Kalfell, Visit Seattle • Andrias White, MBA, CMP, CSEP, “This is our fourth class and with and humbled to be part of such a diverse • Eric Kincaid, Destination DC Events DC each one, we are struck by the passion and influential class of PCMA profes- • Holly Lammert, Explore St. Louis Applicants had to be employed and insights these individuals bring to sionals. This recognition is especially • Amanda Marochko, DES, TQ full time in the events industry, be 29 the business events community,” said meaningful to me coming from PCMA • Megan Martin, CMP, National years old or younger at the time of rec- Deborah Sexton, PCMA President & because I gain tremendous knowledge Conference of State Legislatures ognition and demonstrate ways they CEO. “It is our honor to recognize ex- from my peers, to better serve our clients. • Johnny Martinez, ShockLogic consider themselves to be industry cellence in these bright and innovative I greatly appreciate support for young • Kaitlyn Palatucci, American Frozen leaders. They are not required to be leaders.” professionals like me and look forward to Food Institute PCMA members. A committee made “I am honored to join PCMA’s “20 the opportunity to attend my first PCMA • Allison Perrelli, CMP, Conference & up of program alumni and veteran in their Twenties” Class of 2017,” Eric Convening Leaders conference in Austin Logistics Consultants industry professionals reviewed more Kincaid, Corporate Sales Manager, as well as the PCMA Education Confer- • Morgan Prewitt, CMP, McCormick than 60 applications. Destination DC, told USAE. “During my ence in New York next year.” Place Hyatt to Update Loyalty Program, Emphasis on Points, Not Stays By Grant Broadhurst ther enjoy the same or better tier in 2017. program was designed through a se- Jeff Zidell, Senior Vice President in ries of both qualitative and quantitative Big changes are coming to Hyatt’s charge of Hyatt’s loyalty program, told listening.” loyalty program as it transitions from USAE the revamping of the loyalty pro- One of the major changes to the loy- Hyatt Gold Passport to World of Hyatt gram is just the first of many changes as alty program is the transition from a two- on March 1, 2017. Hyatt seeks to better serve its clientele. tiered system – Platinum and Diamond World of Hyatt will allow members to “Our purpose is to take care of people – to a three-tiered system – Discoverist, earn higher tiers by points, but it will so they can be their best,” Zidell said. Explorist, and Globalist. “There was end the use of stays as a measurement. He explained, “When you think about such a large gap between our existing In addition, it will offer members three purpose, caring for people so they can Platinum and Diamond that we were los- tiers versus Gold Passport’s two-tiered be their best is really rooted in empathy. ing customers who couldn’t quite make it system. Nevertheless, however a current One thing that is really important to bring to Diamond but were somewhere in the member interacts with Hyatt, they will ei- empathy to life is to listen. Our loyalty middle,” Zidell explained. However, the change that will either delight or dismay current Gold Passport current paid leave policies. members is that while nights still count – at least for 2017. Anyone who currently Paid Leave The D.C. government will be required toward the elite tiers, stays no longer will. qualifies for an elite tier under Gold Continued from page 3 to contract with an insurer to offer paid Instead, elite tiers will be earned with Passport will be moved to the corre- year after enactment for employers with leave insurance coverage to small and points, which means food, beverage, sponding World of Hyatt tier. Some might 50 or more employees, and two years medium employers in D.C., under the spas, and other peripherals count. In even find themselves in a higher tier. after enactment for medium employers Employer Mandate bill. Large employers other words, if a member is the type of “We’ll also look at their 2016 activity (20-49 employees) and small employers may choose to use the insurance. The traveler who makes 25 short stays in a and if they would have qualified for a (fewer than 20 employees). The paid insurance will be subsidized for small year but doesn’t stay long or spend a higher tier with World of Hyatt, then leave would be at 100% of salary. and medium employers with the funds lot, then that member will find himself they’ll receive it,” Zidell said. “Every The Employer Mandate bill preserves the District had set aside to establish a downgraded whereas a member who customer will be migrated into a tier control and flexibility for employers and government-administered fund. Small spends a lot or stays for long stretches that is as good or better than tier they reduces administrative burden. UPL and medium employers will be required will benefit. currently have.” creates a new D.C. government bureau- either to purchase a paid leave insurance Zidell said this change isn’t meant to After 2017, though, members of World cracy to administer those benefits. The plan or to certify that their own policies target any one type of traveler, though. of Hyatt must qualify for elite privileges Employer Mandate bill will be admin- satisfy the eight-week requirement. “It came down to simplification,” Zidell by World of Hyatt standards. istered and paid by employers to their ASAE and the coalition’s bill also allows said. “We know that people are count- The changes to Hyatt’s loyalty pro- own employees. Employers can directly employers to maintain all of their current ing their points and nights, and we felt gram come as other players in the indus- determine whether their employees qual- paid leave policies without alteration, as to simplify it both internally for our staff try alter their own programs. On Oct. 14, ify for paid leave, just as they currently long as they supplement those policies and externally for our guests that they Choice Hotels announced that it would do under the Accrued Sick and Safe with salary continuation benefits for the shouldn’t have to keep track of three add Planner Rewards to its Choice Priv- Leave Act (“ASSLA”) or for unpaid leave subset of eligible employees who take things.” ileges reward program, which will allow entitlements under the D.C. FMLA and leave for a qualifying event that is not However, existing customers will event planners to earn points on booking other statutes. Employers can satisfy their fully covered by the employer’s existing either benefit from or be either largely meetings spaces and other spending on paid leave obligations by applying their suite of benefits. unaffected by the March 2017 transition meetings such as food and drink. NOVEMBER 7, 2016 USAE Page 9 NEWSNEWS Four Seasons Opens Research and Discovery Studio in Toronto By Grant Broadhurst in pursuit of perfecting the guest experience.” As part of their stated effort to get every The workspace itself has been de- detail right, Four Seasons has opened a signed to similar standards, and vaunts Research and Discovery Studio in To- silvery modern aesthetics and a largely ronto. It’s not for guests; it’s for the Four open floorplan. Graffiti-like art hangs on Seasons designers who decide what a the walls and common hotel items – like room should look like and what sorts of dishes and plates – are displayed on the silverware to put on the table. partitions as if in a well-curated museum. At the new studio, they will be able to It’s lovely to look at and is presumably test everything from cocktail equipment pleasant to be in, and Four Seasons to table settings to employee uniforms plans to use the workspace to create to even mock hotel rooms built out of similar spaces for its business guests. cardboard. In addition, the workspace “Our goal is to create spaces that are will be used to simulate and experiment pleasurable to be in and promote produc- with aspects of meeting rooms and event tivity; a positive experience in meeting areas. rooms and event spaces can actually “While the R&D Studio is new, the phi- improve productivity,” Kalczak said. losophy behind the space is not,” Dana And if it’s good enough for a Four Kalczak, the vice president of design Seasons guest, then it’s evidently good at Four Seasons, told USAE. “The R&D enough for a Four Seasons designer. Among other things, the Four Seasons Research and Discovery Studio will allow designers to Studio is a dedicated workspace where create mock hotel rooms and table settings. Photo provided by Four Seasons. Four Seasons considers everything from table settings and lighting specs to staff wardrobes and bathroom amenities - all

Natchez CVB Director Search Underway By Jonathan Trager 12.15.16 | Hyatt Regency Chicago

The search for the new Director of the Natchez (Miss.) CVB is narrowing, as Energized for more Excitement and committee members are interviewing a top-tier of candidates for the position. Engagement! Here’s a glimpse of The goal is to have the position filled by Jan. 1. Interviews of five candidates what’s NEW! are being conducted this week via phone and Skype, said Kathleen Bond, Search Committee Chair and Natchez national Historical Park Superintendent. • Completely Cool Opening and “I think it’s a mixed bunch,” Bond, told USAE. “I do feel we have got some good quality candidates.” Closing Reception Bond said she worked on the previous search for a Director just a couple of years ago, and there’s a greater number • Supercharged Show Floor of applicants this go-round, she said. Nearly 30 individuals have applied to take over the top spot of the organization. • Digital Depot Candidates hail from Natchez, the region, and other parts of the country. The Board of Aldermen will eventually review the top three candidates. • Celebration Station The search committee is looking for a new leader with a combination of traits. Bond said it must be someone who can manage an organization and has marketing experience, as well as “soft skills” such as the ability to communicate with people well and manage conflict. The successful candidate will also have “a vision for 21st-century tourism,” said Bond. In particular, she noted, the industry is shifting in focus to Millennials. “The [search] group is working together so well,” said Bond, according to the Natchez Democrat. “I think it’s a good process, and I’m very pleased to be a part of it, because I want to see a good partner in place.” Former bureau chief David Kirby was fired in April after being accused by the Natchez Convention and Promotion Com- Register, today! holidayshowcase.org mission (CPC) of unauthorized spending and misrepresenting finances. Members of the CPC then resigned at the behest @AssocForum | #HSC2016 of the Board of Aldermen and the body was reseated. Page 1 0 USAE NOVEMBER 7, 2016 NEWSNEWS Minnesota Sports Commission Raffles Off Tickets to Games By Jonathan Trager of each team and are based upon avail- some overlap, Romane said he thinks Matt Laible, Director of Public Re- ability. many conversations about the promotion lations & Communications, said the Sports Minneapolis, an extension of “Initial reception has been very posi- are taking place, with friends, relatives, organization is mostly relying on free Meet Minneapolis, is hosting a first-ever tive,” Scott Romane, Executive Director of and co-workers chipping in for a raffle promotion through outlets such as social raffle for a pair of tickets to 295 events, Sports Minneapolis, told USAE. “I would ticket. It’s also a great opportunity for a media and e-mail lists, as well as a small including tickets next season to all home say it’s every sports fan’s dream to have holiday gift, he added. amount of paid digital and social media games of six professional sports teams. access to all of these games on the pro- “I’d like to say it’s an innovative, inge- advertising. Kicking off on Oct. 31 and limited to fessional and collegiate level as well as nious idea we came up with all by our- Asked how many tickets had been only 500 purchasers, one ticket will win the X Games.” selves, but this type of sports promotion sold in the first week, Laible said the the Ultimate Sports Ticket raffle. The Professional teams involved include is done in other cities,” said Romane. group wasn’t releasing specific sales drawing will be held at the Timberwolves NFL’s Vikings, MLB’s Twins, NBA’s Tim- “Really it came out of research into best numbers, although it “may do so at game Jan 28, three days after the dead- berwolves, NHL’s Wild, WNBA’s Minneso- practices as to what other sport commis- milestones along the way.” line for buying tickets (unless the 500 ta Lynx, and MLS’ Minnesota United. The sions are doing.” “Since the window for purchasing tickets sell out sooner). competition also includes six collegiate The research led the Sports Commis- entries lasts nearly three months, we Each raffle ticket is available for $250 teams and VIP passes to X Games Min- sion to set the ticket limit at 500 based are planning marketing activities over at www.sportsminneapolis.org, with all neapolis, an ESPN event that focuses on on population size and the belief that a long period of time, and so far, proceeds going to Sports Minneapolis. extreme sports. the 1-in-500 odds make people feel they we’re happy with the sales we’ve Seat locations are at the sole discretion Because there are so many events and have a decent chance to win. seen in the first three days,” he said.

On Nov. 2, the 2016 TCS New York City Marathon Blue Line Painting Ceremony was held at the race’s finish line in Central Park. Shown here (left to right): Lisa Quevedo, New York Road Runners (NYRR); Antoine Fonville, NYRR; Rachel Pratt, NYRR; Fred Dixon, NYC & Company; Joe King, TCS; Bill Rudin, Rudin Management Company; Eric Rudin, Rudin Management Company; George Hirsch, NYRR; Michael Capiraso, NYRR; Michael Paul Carey, Mayor’s Office; Peter Ciaccia, NYRR; James O’Neill, NYPD; Daniel Nigro, FDNY; Douglas Blonsky, Central Park Conservancy; James Fortunato, MTA; Joe Jarrin, Department of Transportation; Liam Kavanagh, NYC Parks; and Victor Calise, Mayor’s Office.

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Imagine a center of creative collaboration, in the perfect location, surrounded by everything you desire – beaches, fine dining, art, luxury rooms, and ideal weather all year long. It’s real. Unveiling in 2018, but open for business now. Reserve today. [email protected] | 305-539-3071 | MiamiMeetings.com

New 60,000 sq. ft. ballroom • 81 breakout rooms with more than 190,000 sq. ft. of space 500,000 sq. ft. of renovated exhibit space ©Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau – The Official Destination Sales & Marketing Organization for Greater Miami and the Beaches. #myphx

You weren’t looking for inspiration, and yet this is where it found you. You wouldn’t have guessed it. But you’ll never forget it.

USAE_5-3_SpringtimeWrapUp.indd 1 3/16/2016 5:07:45 PM Reach Over 60 Cities with Visit Today Satellite offices in DC.. . . Visit cvbreps.com Today. . . . Submit an RFP; Qualify to win a $100 Amex Gift Card

The following destinations maintain ofﬁces in the Washington, DC-metro area. On calling please mention you saw the listing in USAE’s “Call Us Page.”

CALL US IN D.C. COLUMBUS LONG BEACH OMAHA SAN DIEGO Artrice McNeil, CTA Regina Richardson Matt Heck Phyllis Bradley Azama, CMP ALBERTA [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Kyla Knudson, CASE , CiS DALLAS Art Scanlon, CMP Michelle Coombs [email protected] Jay Marsh [email protected] ORLANDO [email protected] [email protected] Faye Memoli Damara Gomez ANAHEIM Erica Critzer LOS ANGELES [email protected] [email protected] Kimberly Mladenik [email protected] Debbie Glenn Barb Herod, CMP Debbie Jordan, CASE [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Angie Martin Ron Keith Lynn Whitehead Paul Romero DENVER [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Andrea McFadden Mary Gallagher, CMP [email protected] [email protected] THE PALM BEACHES SAN FRANCISCO ATLANTA Dori Jensen Kenley Moy, CMP David H. McAuley DETROIT METRO [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] LOUISVILLE Tom Albrecht Beth Melanson, CMP Heather Turner Regina Rink [email protected] PALM SPRINGS [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Michelle Morgan Donna Del Gallo FT. LAUDERDALE [email protected] [email protected] MELBOURNE ATLANTIC CITY Rosa Mendoza-Friedheim, CASE, CDMP Lynne Bowis Sandi Harvey Maria Rivera [email protected] [email protected] SAN JOSE [email protected] [email protected] Dion James Zanfordino Jason Koteff [email protected] PHILADELPHIA [email protected] AUSTIN MEMPHIS Devon Whitaker Jim Doherty, CTA Kim Warren FORT MYERS & [email protected] SEATTLE [email protected] [email protected] SANIBEL Alison La Follette, CMP Kristen Parker, CASE , CTA Betsy Bush VISIT PHOENIX [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] MIAMI Maribel Velazquez Kireem Swinton Kathy Semmes, CASE [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] BALTIMORE FORT WORTH Mark Metcalfe Kim Allison, CAE, CASE, CTA Roger Freeman, CT [email protected] SONOMA COUNTY [email protected] [email protected] MILWAUKEE Tom Michalisko, CMP Barbara Quigley Laurie Nelson-Choice Lauren Hyps Melissa Ritchie [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Gus Martinez PORTLAND BLOOMINGTON [email protected] SPOKANE GRAND RAPIDS Cara Tobias Ingram Shannon Shannon Rose Dudycha Leslie Hastings, CHSP, CASE [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] MINNEAPOLIS Tracey Chapman Kay A. Russell [email protected] [email protected] ST. LOUIS BOSTON HARTFORD Natalie Ortiz Bruce Arnold Mary Migre, CASE Krystine L. LoBianco, CMP PUERTO RICO [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Mildred Hernandez

Maureen Buckley [email protected] ST. PETE/ [email protected] MONTEREY Anita Nunez Cepollaro CLEARWATER Caitlin Nagle HAWAII Howard Munves [email protected] Liz Dane [email protected] Meredith Parkins [email protected] [email protected] RALEIGH [email protected] Dawn Eagleton CHARLOTTE MONTREAL Jamie Rice [email protected] TAMPA BAY Will Trokey Wanda Jackson Lewis [email protected] Jason Carroll, CMP [email protected] [email protected] HOUSTON RENO/TAHOE [email protected] Ron Sipes CHICAGO NASHVILLE Jennifer Bumbalo [email protected] TORONTO Darrell Baker, CASE Nell Chadwick [email protected] Rose Mary Mitchell Tara Gordon [email protected] [email protected] Jennifer Martini Abdinoor [email protected] [email protected] Rocky Gupta Susan Giambalvo, CASE [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Tina Carter Chocklett, CMP INDIANAPOLIS SALT LAKE VANCOUVER Kenneth Hemsley [email protected] NEW ORLEANS Eddie Canaday, CHSP, CHME Jacqueline Kavcak [email protected] Gabi Donchez Helen Mesﬁn, CMP [email protected] [email protected] Kathryn Morgan [email protected] hmesﬁ[email protected] [email protected] SAN ANTONIO WICHITA CINCINNATI NEW YORK Summer Davey Keith Talbert, CMP LAS VEGAS Mary Beth Baluta Trudy Singh, CMP [email protected] [email protected] Devin Lewis, CMP [email protected] [email protected] Amy Schmidt [email protected] [email protected] CLEVELAND NORFOLK Jennifer Sullivan Bill Adams [email protected] [email protected]