INDUSTRY NEWS 

JACKSON, MISS.: Visit Mississippi announced that Rochelle Hicks has been appointed as director by Gov. Tate Reeves. In this role, Hicks will lead the organization’s tourism promotion efforts, advance tourism initiatives, and extend Mississippi’s appeal to a wider national and international audience. A Natchez native, Hicks brings 25 years of experience in the tourism industry to the role. She previously served as the executive director of the Mississippi Tourism Association and deputy director of the Ridgeland Tourism Commission.

MIAMI: JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa has appointed Alice Land as executive director of sales and marketing. She will oversee all sales, marketing, and public relations efforts for the 685-room luxury property, bringing more than 20 years of experience working with independent, resort, and branded hotel properties–including more than 15 years with Marriott hotels–to her new role. 

SALT LAKE CITY: The International Inbound Travel Association board of directors selected Salt Lake City to host its 2025 Summit, Feb. 9-12. Salt Lake City was one of seven destinations bidding on the summit. The Salt Lake City Convention and Visitors Bureau, an active member of IITA, and Hilton Salt Lake City Center submitted the winning bid. The IITA Summit brings hundreds of travel organizations together to do business and put together USA itineraries and travel services for international travelers visiting the U.S. from around the world.

SAN DIEGO: The countdown is officially on for the 19th annual San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival (SDBWFF), the West Coast’s largest food and wine event—and the only one to occur simultaneously in two countries. The festival will take place Nov. 8-12 and recently released a peek of its celebrity chef lineup, which includes James Beard Award nominees, Michelin-starred restaurants, and Food Network and Top Chef talent. Expect appearances from Suzette Gresham, Roberto Alcocer, Eric Bost, Travis Swikard, Claudia Sandoval, Marcela Valladolid, and many more. 

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Courtyard by Marriott Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard announced the completion of a comprehensive property renovation. The overhaul features a refreshed aesthetic, upgraded amenities, and enhanced meeting and event capabilities. Each of the property’s five event venues boasts floor-to-ceiling windows, ergonomically efficient seating, upgraded LED monitors and sound systems, and customizable table configurations to meet a variety of needs.