GREAT IDEAS!
Cloud-IX is one of the 80 sculptures on display.
SculptureWalk isn’t brand-new to Downtown Sioux Falls, SD, but every year for the past 23, from May to September, the pieces are displayed year-round from the Washington Pavilion to Falls Park are new. This year, there are 80 sculptures, owned by the artists and loaned to the exhibit for one year. The public votes for its favorite sculpture at ballot boxes on Phillips Avenue. The winner is declared the “People’s Choice Award.” I love this way of introducing art to the public without charge and to inspire artists to participate. All of the sculptures are for sale to the public. https://sculpturewalksiouxfalls.com/
Question: do you want to hear about uber luxury experiences on cruise ships, resorts, or dining? I ask because I am receiving lots of press releases about the same, but it seems to me (personally) that it is rather insensitive to add to that hype when so many people I know in the hospitality, meetings & events, entertainment, and travel industries are scraping by, praying that the economy will improve, bookings will not be cancelling more than signing on the dotted line, and hoping we will all be breathing a deep sigh of financial relief that this too has passed. This is a serious question. Please lmk.
HFTP Reinforces HITEC Show Rules to Protect Exhibitors and Sponsors.
Here’s a situation that unfortunately had to be addressed. Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) has had to create policy to protect against suit casing and unauthorized events by non-exhibiting, non-supporting companies at their Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC®) to protect the integrity of the event and the companies that support it through exhibiting, sponsorship and official participation. The next event is June 15–18 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, TX. Suit casing includes any effort by non-exhibiting companies to conduct business, solicit attendees, distribute materials, schedule meetings or promote products and services in a way that uses the event’s audience without an official exhibitor or sponsor commitment. Parties, meetings, receptions or other events provided by non-exhibiting and non-supporting companies are not allowed when they are designed to draw HITEC attendees away from official event programming, exhibitors, sponsors or sanctioned networking opportunities. HFTP noted that these activities undermine the companies that invest in the event and help make HITEC possible.
HOT DEALS SAVE YOU $$$$
Save 50% off Honeymoon Harbour Stingray Trip or on a Scuba Dive at the Neal Watson Bimini Scuba Center in The Bahamas.
If you’ve ever considered a vacation to The Bahamas, this may be the summer to make it happen and receive the biggest discounts. Whether you want to laze on the beach, sail around diverse islands, get pampered at a spa, or enjoy active experiences from swimming with sharks or kayaking in blue quiet waters, the offerings entice. Most are book now and use by mid-to-late August. Couples, families, or groups. Check out the variety of possibilities.
https://www.bahamas.com/summer?
Tommy Bahamas Miramonte has a Paradise Found package
Tommy Bahamas Miramonte’s Resort & Spa “Paradise Found” package is only available to book by June 30, but you have until Jan. 10, 2027 to utilize. Save up to 50% on stays of two nights or more at the Indian Wells, CA resort, plus exclusive $125 massage or facial pricing at Spa Rosa, 20% off spa boutique purchases, and a reduced $20 resort fee.
https://www.tommybahamamiramonte.com/offers/; (442) 305-4500.
The Don CeSar, legendary Pink Palace® on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
The Don CeSar, known as the legendary Pink Palace®, reigns on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Recently redesigned after hurricane destruction, the historic beachfront resort has more than 38,000 sf of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, including the Royal Ballroom that can host up to 420 and the King Charles Ballroom for up to 350 people, has a summertime sizzling offer. Book 50 or more peak rooms per night by July 31 and utilize by Dec. 31, and you are entitled to many perks, such as 5% off current-year banquet menu pricing, complimentary gift certificate for Spa Oceana, and 15% off AV with exclusive use of Encore. New bookings only. Blackout dates may apply. Reduced daily resort fee from $40 to $28
https://www.doncesar.com/gather/meetings/
Southwest Louisiana is a birders’ dream. Photo by Jamie Breauxis Photography.
Book and actualize a meeting by Dec. 31, 2027 in Southwest Louisiana for a payout of up to $7,000. Requirements for Visit Lake Charles’ Meeting Incentive Program Meeting stipulate a Sunday – Thursday buy for a minimum of 40 rooms on peak. Visit Lake Charles must receive the incentive submission no less than 45 days before the meeting has occurred and before the contract is finalized with the hotel/meeting facility.
https://www.visitlakecharles.org/meetings/incentive-program; sales@VisitLakeCharles.org.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa has great offer for groups.
Book and actualize your qualified 60+-room nights meeting or event between Aug. 1 and Dec. 31 at Hilton Sandestin Beach (Miramar Beach, FL), in 2026 and unlock triple HHonors points (up to 200K), 30K bonus points as a signing bonus for Third Party bookings, 50% off current resort fee pricing, and complimentary wireless internet in general session (using current access points). A maximum of 200,000 Hilton Honors Points may be earned per signed booking, in accordance with the maximum spend of the Event Planner program.
(888) 519-2089; https://www.hiltonsandestinbeach.com/florida-meetings/group-rates?
RH Rooftop Restaurant in West Palm Beach is one of many rooftop bars and lounges popular in The Palm Beaches.
Hold your event in any of The Palm Beaches hotels or resorts, as well as use the Palm Beach County Convention Center (Florida) with a minimum contracted room night of 300 rooms on peak for at least two or more nights and receive up $100,000 in incentives. The amount depends on how many room nights contracted by June 30, 2026 but actualized within this year, or by 2027 or 2028. Many of the individual property also have promotional offerings.
https://www.thepalmbeaches.com/meetings/meetings-offers
Turf Vallley Resort (Ellicott, MD) has enticing summer group offers.
Turf Valley Resort (Ellicott City, MD) has summer savings for group bookings actualized between Aug. 1 – 31 for a minimum 10 rooms. Some of the incentives include a complimentary suite, upgraded WiFi, and 10% off service fee. 172 guest rooms, 24 event spaces, six ballrooms for over 40,000 sf of meeting space.
https://www.turfvalley.com; (410) 465-1200; info_sales@turfvalley.com
Just one of the scenic venues for group dining in the Greater Palm Springs, CA area.
Meeting Oasis Incentive returns to Greater Palm Springs (CA). Visit Greater Palm Springs (Visit GPS) provides clients with a rebate that can be utilized for facility rental, F&B, AV expenses or other meetings-related fees as long as it’s sourced directly through Visit GPS. Credit will be awarded based on 70% pick up of paid and consumed rooms at one of our destination hotels and resorts. The new meeting or event must be contracted by June 30 and must actualize May 25-Sept. 11, 2026; May 31-Sept. 10, 2027; or May 29-Sept. 8, 2028 to receive funding credit. The group must contract and actualize 10 rooms on peak night or more to qualify for the offer. Non-revenue generating room nights do not receive room night credit. Rebate will be paid to the client upon confirmation of full payment of group’s master account to the hotel
Pick your perk of amenities at the Courtyard by Marriott, directly across from Universal Orlando when you book your next meeting by June 30 and actualize by Dec. 31. Room block determines the number of perks, which can range from 50% off room rental, complimentary welcome reception, or other upgrades.
Sales@CY-Universal.com; (407) 351-3333
Disney’s Aulani Resort (Ko Olina, Hawaii) has fun for families and groups.
Save up to 30% on select rooms for five nights or longer, Oct. 19 to Dec. 23 at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi. Or, save up to 25% for stays of four consecutive nights. Book by Dec. 2. Limit two (2) rooms or villas per reservation, and occupancy restrictions apply per room or villa.
https://www.disneyaulani.com/rooms-offers/special-offers/2026-fall-room-offer; (866) 443-4763
The Garden Villa (Winter Park, FL) has an offer of 50% off venue rental costs through August.
https://www.thegardenvilla.com/contact?; (407) 745-5718
Save on end of summer packages, such as Atlantis Paradise Island resort.
Enjoy five miles of white sand beaches, crystal-blue water and innovative cuisine at Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas and save up to 40% if you bundle air and hotel together. Five properties, one island. Travel now thru July 31.
https://www.atlantisbahamas.com/bundle-and-save-offer
Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau offers $5 incentive for new bookings of at least three nights for a minimum 50 rooms on peak for stays between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31. DBACVB Director of Sales, Brenda Redmon, bredmon@daytonabeach.com, (386) 255-0415, ext. 134.
Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach has an offer for groups.
Book the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach (Clearwater, FL) by July 31 and actualize by Dec. 31 for your group and choose among many amenities. Pick one for groups of 10-30, two for 31-50, and 3 for groups of 50+. Amenity options include reduced resort fee to $20/per group room; 5% off Master account charges, and $150 complimentary gift certificate for Pallavi Spa. For full deets, click the link.
https://www.wyndhamgrandclearwater.com/meetings?utm_source=Meetings+Today&utm_medium; (727) 281-9525
Walt Disney World Resort has an offer geared towards a group of 12. Triple the Marriott Bonvoy™ Points, complimentary pre-planning retreat for up to 12 guests for two nights (includes accommodations, round-trip airport transfers, and F&B), and a VIP EPCOT® Fireworks Fantasea Cruise for up to 12 guests, just for booking the group by June 30, this year and for a stay from June through August in 2026, 2027 or 2028. The three luxury hotels are the Swan, the Dolphin and the Swan Reserve.
https://swandolphin.com//wp-pdf/meetings/2026triple.pdf
La Quinta Resort & Club celebrates its Centennial Year with a 5% rebate.
La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton (Greater Palm Springs, CA) has a 5% rebate offer for newly-booked group stays in September, and December 2026
https://www.cvent.com/venues/la-quinta/resort/la-quinta-resort-club-curio-collection-by-hilton/
JW Marriott Las Vegas and Rampart Casino (Las Vegas, NV) has rebranded as The Resort at Summerlin. Renovations will continue through 2026. Mid-to-large-sized groups can receive benefits such as 2X Marriott Bonvoy® Points, carbon neutral meetings, basic conference Wi-Fi, and more. Planners also gain access to the Event Experience Playbook. Offer valid now through July 1, 2026. Use Booking Reference Code: GOCRN25. Terms & conditions apply.
https://theresortatsummerlin.com/; (877) 869-8777
Book your next tropical getaway at Grand Hyatt Bahama Mar and enjoy 15% off your stay plus a $100 F&B credit to use. Travel window is through Oct. 31, 2026.
https://www.bahamas.com/deals-packages?
Universal Helios Grand Hotel a Loews Hotel
The longer you stay (up to seven days), the more you save with Universal Orlando Resort Florida resident promo package. Save $5 for two nights, but up to $200 for seven nights at more than 10 onsite properties, when bundled with park-to-park tickets. Two plans are offered: before Oct. 19 and Oct. 20 to Dec. 31. Or, save up to $300 if you stay two or more days and bundle with park-to-park tickets.
https://www.universalorlando.com/web-packages/en/us/vacation-packages/H688/create-your-own-florida-resident-vacation-package-with-universal-epic-universe? (877) 801-9720
Warm up the upcoming winter at Aulani, a Disney resort in Hawaii
Book by Sept. 27 and save 25% on stays most nights on select rooms—including ocean and partial ocean view rooms—for stays of five or more consecutive nights, or, save up to 20% for stays of four consecutive nights. from Aug. 9 to Oct. 18 at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi. Not valid on suites and three-Bedroom Grand Villas, or on previously booked rooms or villas. See full details and restrictions on link.
https://www.disneyaulani.com/rooms-offers/special-offers/2026-aulani-summer-room-offer/#important-details; (866) 443-4763
Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa has incentive offers for new group business.
Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa (Greater Palm Springs, CA) has an offer that must be actualized by Dec. 31 for at least three peak nights. How many rooms are booked opens the number of amenities offered for incentive.
https://www.visitgreaterpalmsprings.com/coupon/a-better-group-stay-starts-here%3a-more-rooms-more-rewards/8503/
Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows (Hawaii) has oceanside luxury for board meetings.
Book by June 30, 2026 and use by December 19, 2026 at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows (Hawaii) to earn these exclusive perks from Associated Luxury Hotels International. Among the perks: Complimentary suite and bungalow upgrades based on group size; Group rates extended three days pre and post program dates; 20% discount at the new oceanfront Spa at Royal Lahaina; and a 5% banquet food and beverage credit rebated to master account.
https://www.alhi.com/contact/ (888)728.4105
Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort has a Pop the Question package.
Looking for a romantic movie version of popping the marriage question? Los Cabos, Mexico’s Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort has ordered up the idyllic setting if you take advantage of the all-inclusive beachfront resort’s “Proposal Package” by December 15, 2026. The exclusive package features three nights in a private pool suite at The Towers at Pacifica (a deluxe hotel within the hotel), including personalized butler service. There are too many amenities in this package to name all, but they include “Marry Me” turndown service on the night of the proposal, with flower petals and candles, hand-blown hearts, and a romantic dinner with wine-pairing at LaFrida. You choose the proposal venue from many romantic possibilities.
https://www.pueblobonito.com/blog/say-yes-in-paradise-pueblo-bonito-pacificas-luxurious-new-proposal-package; (800) 990-8250
SUMMER TRAVEL STILL IN YOUR BUDGET?
“The summer of 2026 is shaping up to be a historic season for movement, but it is being heavily shadowed by the ongoing war in Iran. While inflation was already a concern, the conflict has turned travel into a strategic mission,” according to Andrew Burnstine, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Lynn University, addressing the topic of Best Summer Travel Destinations, the latest survey from WalletHub. Burnstine adds, “Current data suggests that 91 percent of Americans still plan to travel, but the war has prompted a massive shift in where they travel. Domestic road trips are surging as travelers avoid the uncertainty of international airspace, yet even these are under pressure as gas prices have jumped 45 percent since the conflict began.” That stated, what did survey that compared 100 metro areas across 41 key indicators of budget- and fun-friendliness, reveal? The data set includes factors such as the cost of the cheapest flights, the number of attractions, and the average price of a meal for two, providing insight into destinations that offer both affordability and entertainment. The top 20 U.S. travel destinations start with Atlanta, GA in the first spot. WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo explains that the Atlanta metro has the cheapest flights from major cities don’t require any connections and can cost as little as $317. Additionally, “Atlanta has a lot of diversity when it comes to attractions. The city has a lot of Spas & Wellness Centers, shopping centers, ice cream shops and swimming pools, so there are plenty of places to have fun and cool off.” The next 19 best travel destinations are: Orlando, FL; Austin, TX; Washington, DC; Honolulu, HI; Tampa, FL; Philadelphia, PA; Salt Lake City, UT; Cincinnati, OH; Richmond, VA; San Antonio, TX; St. Louis, MO; Oklahoma, OK; Pittsburg, PA; Tulsa, OK; New York, NY; Omaha, IA; Raleigh, NC; San Diego, CA; and finally, Houston, TX.
COMPETITIONS & AWARDS
Sioux Falls Sourced is back better than ever!
Sioux Falls (SD) Sourced Sweepstakes has returned. You don’t have to do anything more than submit an entry to be one of 200 winners throughout the quarterly competition to win a box of food, art, body and home care products. The Summer Box entry, accepted through Aug. 31, includes salsa from INCA, custom art greeting cards from MacaelaMade, honey from Double Deep Honey, and so much more. Total value: $135.
https://www.experiencesiouxfalls.com/sioux-falls-sourced?
Any student journalists among my readership? I’m a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and like to promote possibilities that I hope will encourage the values and integrity with which I was instilled. SPJ seeks 10 college students to cover presentations and events for the annual conference, SPJ26, in Columbus, OH, Oct. 1-4. The SPJ News team is led by professional journalists who mentor and guide student journalists during the convention. Applicants must be undergraduate or graduate students majoring in journalism, and available Sept. 30-Oct. 5. Complimentary conference registration and hotel accommodations are provided. If selected, an SPJ student membership is required. Students’ work will be published on The SPJ News website. Deadline to apply is June 30. Students will be notified no later than July 31.
https://spj26.org/
NEW OR COMING IN THE NEAR FUTURE
In 2026
JW Marriott Atlanta Downtown’s redesign includes The Ledger Bar and Lounge. Photo by JW Marriott Atlanta Downtown.
The newly redesigned JW Marriott Atlanta Downtown (Atlanta, GA) has unveiled its 237-room hotel as the second JW Marriott property in the city. About 10,000 sf of meeting and event space, full fitness facility, and four dining possibilities, from The Ledger Bar and Lounge, (featuring Southern-inspired dishes and craft cocktails), Fiora restaurant, and JW Market. Rooftop is the brand’s signature JW Garden, whose herbs and plants enhance the site’s menu.
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/atljd-jw-marriott-atlanta-downtown
The lobby of the recently-opened The Equestrian Manor (Ocala, FL). photo by Maven Photo and Film
The World Equestrian Center (Ocala, FL) has debuted its newest venue, The Equestrian Manor. With 300,000+ sq of flexible indoor and outdoor space, there are grand and junior ballrooms, conference rooms, four on-site dining venues, and cutting-edge AV.
https://worldequestriancenter.com/request-for-proposal/
ocalasales@wec.net;| (352) 414.7850; MeetAtWEC.com
Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP®) and RX are launching HITEC Paris, on Nov. 5 in Paris, France at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. The inaugural event will be co-located with EquipHotel Paris, one of Europe’s leading hospitality trade shows, organized by RX. HITEC Paris will bring together hospitality technology professionals, innovators, executives, and solution providers for a full-day conference dedicated to the future of hospitality technology, innovation, and digital transformation. EquipHotel Paris will take place Nov. 2–5.
www.hftp.org; www.rxglobal.com; https://www.equiphotel.com/
Southwest Airlines has begun a Sip and Ship program at Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa. Photo Credit: Maria Nieto, Southwest Airlines, 2025
Bringing home wine from select wine regions just got easier. Southwest Airlines’ new Sip and Ship program enables you to check one case of wine for free when flying from select West Coast and Pacific Northwest airports. The latest addition to the service happened late April at Charles M. Schulz Sonoma County Airport (STS) in Santa Rosa, CA. Southwest Airlines’ service eliminates the need to pay for checked baggage or to ship wine separately. Participating California airports include Burbank, Fresno, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oakland, Ontario, Orange County/Santa Ana, Palm Springs, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Santa Barbara, and Sonoma County. The offer also includes Boise, ID; Eugene, OR; and Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, WA.
www.southwest+airlines+new+sip+and+ship+program+details
This fall, Category 10 Luke Combs Bar will replace Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville on the Las Vegas Strip. Photo courtesy of Opry Entertainment Group.
Coming this Fall, Country-music star Luke Combs’ new partnership with Opry Entertainment Group and Caesars Entertainment will be a win at the Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino (Las Vegas, NV). The three-story, 34,000 sf restaurant and Bar Category 10, inspired by Combs’ multi-platinum hit song, “Hurricane” will replace Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville. On the first floor, Hurricane Hall will feature three bars, central stage and dance floor. The Beautiful Crazy Women’s Loung, located directly inside of the women’s restroom on the first floor, will offer a champagne bar, soft seating, makeup counters and Hollywood vanity mirrors. Second story, The Still, elevates the experience with selected bourbons by Combs and an overlooking view of the stage. The top level dishes up The Eye Rooftop, with a DJ booth, dance floor and views of the Las Vegas Strip.
Greeting lobby in Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel (Nashville, TN) opens this fall.
Meetings Today publication has an issue on new and renovated properties, some just opened, some coming. One that has received some national news coverage is Dolly Parton’s SongTeller Hotel and Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum (on the third floor of the hotel). Both are scheduled for a fall debut in Nashville, TN. The hotel will have 245 guestrooms, including 33 suites. The museum exhibits honors the life of Dolly, her expansive career and personal memories through her own eyes. The hotel’s 10,000 sf of flexible meeting space for 125 guests includes three breakout rooms, three restaurants and seven unique spaces. Live entertainment will play in Parton’s Live, Jolene’s and the Listening Lobby.
DSRT Surf Resort is constructing California’s first man-made surf lagoon.
DSRT Surf, a 5.5-acre surf lagoon opens this year with a 92-room hotel, restaurants, and group-friendly gathering spaces in Palm Springs, CA. While waiting for DSRT Surf’s opening, check out the Greater Palm Springs Oasis Incentive for special deals for groups during June, July, and August.
Hospitality nonprofit association Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) and RX Japan LLC, are producing the first Hospitality Industry Technology Exposition and Conference (HITEC) in Japan as part of the Hospitality Tech EXPO, Dec. 2–4, at Ariake GYM-EX. “With a history of over 50 years, HITEC has established itself as an event that symbolizes expertise in the hospitality technology sector. The event will bring together a high-level network of industry-leading professionals who are at the forefront of technology development in the hotel and related hospitality businesses. With HITEC TOKYO, this essential source of knowledge will be extended to the Asian hospitality market,” said Bryan Wood, HFTP Chief Meetings and Events Officer.
https://www.hospitality-show.jp/tokyo/ja-jp/visit.html; www.hftp.org
Interested in becoming a Certified Meeting Planner (CMP)? Here are dates for the next 10-week interactive virtual programsdesigned to help you prepare for the exam. Aug. 19-Oct. 21. Virtual class from 6-9 pm. Link provided upon registration. Taught by Adrienne Six. For members and non-members of Meeting Professionals International.
https://web.cvent.com/event/ef1c3404-2c95-4458-bb3d-7868296eac74/homepage
Bridge in the clouds, Little Rock, AR. courtesy of the Clinton Foundation.
Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) has a new tourism marketing campaign that will run through 2026, highlighting what makes Arkansas’ capital city so special. The campaign, entitled “Love You Some Little Rock,” is designed to introduce visitors to Little Rock’s restaurants, outdoor venues, historical attractions, and the arts and music scene. The campaign includes digital advertising, video storytelling and visitor materials.
New meeting space entryway at the expanded Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin expansion project.
Late summer, the new 100,000+ sq. ballroom and multi-function meeting space at the Walt Disney World Dolphin and Swan expansion will be completed. The new space will have a 38.000 sf ballroom and 24,000 sf pre-function and 40,000 sf multi-function space, with 14,000 sq pre-function space.
https://swandolphin.com/meetings/; https://swandolphinexpansion.carrd.co/
Hyatt Place Sonoma Wine Country, located near Charles Schulz Sonoma County Airport, is slated to open in late 2026. Plans include 165 rooms, meeting spaces, pool, fitness center, and a rooftop restaurant and bar.
In 2027
OCVIBE Concert Hall should open early 2027 in Anaheim, CA.
OCVIBE is a 100-acre mixed-use development transforming the area surrounding Honda Center in Anaheim, CA that will open early in 2027. Designed by Populous, the new stand-alone 5,000-person-capacity venue will feature a flexible layout to host live events and high-end productions with elevated guest and artist amenities. new stand-alone, 5,000-person-capacity live entertainment venue opening in early 2027. The concert hall expands OCVIBE’s growing collection of performance spaces, joining Honda Center – currently open while undergoing a $1B transformation of its guest experience – and the historic Golden Bear, opening in 2029, creating an ecosystem of venues that supports touring artists at every stage of their growth. When the first phase of OCVIBE opens in early 2027, it will introduce a dynamic mix of the concert hall, Katella Commons – the 21 chef-driven Kitchen Market Hall, The Weave office building, Urban Park, and additional amenities designed to support daily activity and year-round visitation. Artist appreciation and guest experience are keys to the design. Six dedicated dressing rooms, including two private artist suites, crew kitchen and showers, gated bus parking, and an open-air backstage courtyard. “We created OCVIBE to elevate the live performance experience for both artists and fans,” said Julie Rinaldi, Principal at Populous. “The venue features an intimate seating bowl with outstanding acoustics and clear sightlines, ensuring every guest feels immersed in the energy on the stage. At the same time, we designed an artist-focused environment anchored by an open-air courtyard and headliner suites that embrace Southern California’s climate.” A defining feature of the concert hall’s exterior is the Stretto, a 62-foot-tall steel art installation clad in louvered metal panels at the venue’s southeast corner. Designed as a visual gateway between the venue and the surrounding Urban Park, the piece expands the district’s growing collection of large-scale public artworks. Beneath it, Stretto Café will operate daily. The concert hall will have private access to The Gallagher Club, an exclusive setting to enhance special events.
Edgewood Tahoe Resort (Lake Tahoe, NV) currently has 7,000 sf. of flexible meeting spaces, 154 rooms and suites, and 14 villa suites, but by the time renovations are completed in 2027, the 1,700-sf South Room will have expanded into a lakefront venue that accommodates up to 300 guests.
The Pagemore – Barouk Signature Restaurant
Cary, NC is getting a new seven-story, 186-room Tribute Portfolio property in the fall. Mainsail Lodging & Development, together with Ross Hotel Partners, global real estate firm Hines, and architecture and design firm BRPH, have identified the new property as The Pagemore Hotel at Fenton. The hotel will feature have signature Eastern Mediterranean restaurant Barouk (with terrace dining), lively lobby bar, all-day coffee concept, and more than 6,000 sf of event space to accommodate 200, and the cutting-edge Culinary Theatre. Designed by BRPH with bold lines, expressive interiors, and subtle nods to Cary’s history, The Pagemore will feature 186 guest rooms and suites.
https://splashsites.my.canva.site/the-pagemore-splash-page; https://www.mainsailhotels.com/
After 30 years in business, The Mirage Hotel & Casino (The Mirage) in Las Vegas, NV has closed and will be transformed into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas. The 700-foot guitar-shaped hotel will be modeled after the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL. Opening is slated for spring, 2027.
In 2028
Waldorf Astoria resort and branded residences are being built at Deer Valley Resort’s East Village. The expected 2028 opening will include 132 hotel rooms and 105 one- to six-bedroom branded residences, as well as 56 hotel residences located above the hotel and 49 private residences housed in a standalone Waldorf Astoria Residences Deer Valley tower. Major perk: ski-in/ski-out access adjacent to Deer Valley’s Green Monster run and views of Bald Mountain, Hail Peak, and Park Peak. 1,300 sf meeting and event space, including a 5,200-sf ballroom, resident lounges, and a demonstration kitchen.
Moffitt Cancer Center, a leading National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Tampa, FL-based Mainsail Lodging & Development are partnering to bring a new 200-room, full-service hotel to Moffitt’s McKinley Campus in the summer of 2028. The $84 million project will address a longstanding need for modern, high-quality lodging near Moffitt. Data shows that Moffitt generates more than 68,000 room nights in the Tampa Bay area annually through its operations. The new hotel is projected to support nearly half of this demand. The hotel is planning to fly the flag of a major national brand, consistent with Mainsail’s award-winning portfolio, which includes properties affiliated with Marriott International’s Autograph Collection and Tribute Portfolio. Mainsail also manages Innovation Hotel, a purpose-built property on the campus of global medical device leader Arthrex in Naples, FL.
https://www.moffitt.org/; www.MainsailHotels.com
FESTIVALS
Saturdays, now thru Aug. 29 at The Plaza at Toyota Music Factory (Irving, TX). The Free Tribute to Summer Concert Series, from classic rock legends and country favorites to arena anthems and chart-topping hits. 9 pm start. Bring lawn chairs.
https://www.irvingtexas.com/event/a-tribute-to-summer%3a-free-concert-series/40380/
July 3, & Aug 7th Sioux Falls, SD hosts Downtown Sioux Falls Open Streets on Phillips Avenue. Car-free community playground with vendors, artists, musicians, outdoor seating, food trucks, interactive art etc. August 7th includes Art & Wine Walks, with local wine samples, open galleries and artist encounters.
https://www.experiencesiouxfalls.com/events/downtown-open-streets?
Karen Kuzsel is a writer-editor based in the Orlando area who specializes in the hospitality, entertainment, meetings & events industries. She is an active member of International Live Events Association, Meeting Professionals International and the Society of Professional Journalists. Karen writes about food & wine, spas, destinations, venues, meetings & events. A career journalist, she has owned magazines, written for newspapers, trade publications, radio and TV. As her alter-ego, Natasha, The Psychic Lady, she is a featured entertainer for corporate and social events. Karen@KarenKuzsel.com; www.karenkuzsel.com; Natasha@ThePsychicLady.com. She is also active with Experience Kissimmee CVB.