ConventionSouth Magazine

05/27/2025

Civic leaders, developers, and hospitality executives officially broke ground on Grand Hyatt Miami Beach, an 800-room hotel that will directly connect to the Miami Beach Convention Center. The hotel is expected to open in late 2027. https://conventionsouth.com/new-800-room-grand-hyatt-miami-beach-breaks-ground

Civic leaders, developers, and hospitality executives officially broke ground on Grand Hyatt Miami Beach, an 800-room hotel that will directly connect to the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC). The hotel is expected to open in late 2027.

05/23/2025

Wilmington and Beaches CVB names Molly Johnson VP of sales and services https://conventionsouth.com/wilmington-and-beaches-cvb-names-molly-johnson-vp-of-sales-and-services

Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) has promoted Molly Johnson, CMP-Fellow, to vice president of sales and services. She has been with the CVB since 2015, previously serving as director of convention sales.

05/21/2025

Arlo Washington DC becomes hotel brand’s first LEED-Certified property https://conventionsouth.com/arlo-washington-dc-first-leed-certified-property

Arlo Hotels’ seventh location, Arlo Washington DC, has achieved LEED Silver Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. This award recognizes the hotel’s dedication to sustainable development, environmental care, and efficient operations.

05/21/2025

Did you miss our May issue? Don’t worry, the digital edition is here!

From top resorts to island destinations, we've rounded up the best sun-kissed meeting destinations in the South! Plus, we dive into which destinations are making DEI initiatives.

Take a look: https://lnkd.in/gmCB6gFf

05/21/2025

Kentucky, Missouri, and Virginia struck by severe storms; at least 28 dead https://conventionsouth.com/kentucky-missouri-and-virginia-struck-by-severe-storms-at-least-28-dead

An EF3 tornado hit Kentucky on Friday, May 16, killing at least 19 people as of this morning—most of them in southeastern Laurel County, damaging hundreds of homes and vehicles, and leaving many homeless, according to an update from the governor’s office.

05/20/2025

Adventure is Better Together

Laredo, Texas, is the perfect destination for meetings and group gatherings, where adventure and connection go hand in hand. The city offers modern meeting spaces, historic venues, and authentic cultural experiences that transform events into memorable experiences. Between sessions, explore Laredo’s vibrant culinary scene, scenic outdoor spots, and lively festivals. With a welcoming community, convenient location, and endless opportunities for teambuilding, every gathering goes beyond the boardroom. In Laredo, adventure is better together.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/VisitLaredoTexas

05/17/2025

ATL Airport District CVB appoints Helen Scroggs as sales manager https://conventionsouth.com/atl-airport-district-cvb-appoints-helen-scroggs-as-sales-manager

ATL Airport District CVB, the official destination marketing organization for College Park, Hapeville, and Union City, has hired Helen Scroggs as sales manager. Scroggs has worked for the CVB since January 2025, first as a contractor.

05/16/2025

There's a new convention center hotel coming to Tulsa! Read more: https://conventionsouth.com/new-650-room-convention-center-hotel-coming-to-tulsa

Visit Tulsa recently announced plans for a new 650-room hotel connecting directly to the city’s downtown convention center. The project is expected to break ground in 2026 and open in 2029.

05/16/2025

See how destinations are rolling out the welcome mat with DEI initiatives: https://conventionsouth.com/inclusive-meetings

According to “The State of the Meetings & Conventions Industry 2024” survey, conducted by Future Partners, Miles Partnership, and Digital Edge, 49 percent of planners reconsidered a destination in 2024 due to “controversial issues,” while 56 percent anticipate political influence on destinat...

05/15/2025

Whether it’s an executive retreat on a secluded shoreline, a conference at a luxury resort, or a teambuilding adventure steps from the surf, these destinations turn ordinary gatherings into extraordinary experiences: https://conventionsouth.com/island-meeting-destinations

Today’s meeting attendees crave experiences beyond the boardroom, and the South offers a wealth of island retreats for meeting escapes. With breathtaking views, fresh ocean air, and built-in relaxation, the region offers the perfect blend of productivity and paradise.

05/15/2025

Dollywood’s Splash Country celebrates 25th anniversary season https://conventionsouth.com/dollywoods-splash-country-celebrates-25th-anniversary-season

In celebration of its 25th anniversary on May 17, Dollywood’s Splash Country has announced special entertainment and dining offerings for guests to enjoy throughout the entire season. The waterpark features 40 rides and attractions across 35 acres, set against Tennessee’s beautiful Smoky Mountai...

05/07/2025

Talking Points: DEI in Meetings and Events Fosters Creativity, Communication, and Connections https://conventionsouth.com/talking-points-dei-in-meetings-and-events-fosters-creativity-communication-and-connections

Throughout his career, Gary Murakami has helped to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the industry, serving on the Events Industry Council Equity Task Force, Meeting Professionals Association DE&I Advisory Committee, and chair of the DEI Committee for CalSAE and the Bo...