Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1524031
41 41 B M & T ••• July/August 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 3 CONTENTS 19 19 30 30 21 21 VOLUME 31, ISSUE 4, JULY/AUGUST 2024 4 Publisher's Message 5 Calendar of Events 6 In The News 9 Meeting Planner Profile 10 Newsmakers 12 BA 250 13 Pacesetters 16 Hotel Happenings 18 Local Hero 38 Center of Attention 49 Travel Data 51 Cruise News 53 Caribbean Corner 55 Barbados 56 Hawaii 57 Maryland 60 Michigan 62 New York 64 Portland 65 Rhode Island 66 San Antonio COVER STORY FEATURES DEPARTMENT AREA GUIDES Choosing the right venue for your meeting or conference is a crucial step in the planning process. Select a destination or facility that does- n't resonate with your target audience and you very well may put a damper on attendance, no matter how spectacular your scheduled program may be. Planners are challenged to pick a venue that has the amenities that will boost atten- dance, while at the same time taking care that these same features that attract delegates will not also detract from the business at hand. Great Gaming Roundup offers planners a few options.. By Solomon J. Herbert 14 14 Today Nashville is a thriving hub for business events, meetings, and conferences – the perfect showcase for Hilton's dynamic portfolio of hotels and bespoke experiences that cater to a wide range of diverse needs, offering state-of- the-art design, innovation, sustainable living spaces, and properties second to none, coupled with impeccable service and prime locations. The Unprecedented Hilton Hotel Brand In Nashville, Tennessee: Redefining Premier Event, Meeting, And Conference Spaces fills in the details. By Toni Walker Small cities can shine just as bright as large cities, and this is especially true in the meetings industry. These often-overlooked meeting des- tinations have the natural beauty, historic ven- ues, capable hotels and entertaining activities often found in major metros. But what makes them gold mines is their low price point, flexibil- ity and lack of large crowds. Second Tier Top Choice showcases a list of some of these cities which are sure to satisfy your clients' needs, with huge savings attached. By Solomon Herbert II 48 48 From Couch to Dance Floor introduces you to R. Soncire Brown, the founder of iSpark Life, who transformed her life through Soul Line Dancing. Once confined to her couch due to bone on bone knee pain and depression, she dis- covered the healing power of dance and now inspires others as a passionate instructor, chore- ographer, and advocate for soul line dance. As the founder and CEO of the Salamander Collection and the president and managing partner of Monumental Sports, Johnson's achievements traverse the hospitality and sports sectors. Her personal passion delves into TV/film, arts, and humanitarian initiatives. A Conversation With Sheila Johnson tells the whole story. Patrice A. Kelley Meetings Love Golf Resorts profiles several prime destinations that feature prominent golf resorts, and others that have spectacular con- vention facilities only a stone's throw from one or more fabulous golf courses. By Solomon Herbert II BL ACK MEETINGS & TOURISM LLC Black American West Museum Display, Denver, CO photo credit: PopMedia Group