USAEXtra Destinations International
V O L U M E 4 | ISSUE 8
J U LY 7, 2 0 2 5
A coalition of residents, small business owners, Broadway workers, labor unions, community leaders, elected officials, hotels and entertainment venues filled Duffy Square late last month in an illustration of community support for Caesars Palace Times Square—the proposal for a gaming and entertainment destination from SL Green, Caesars Entertainment, and Roc Nation. More than 1,000 people attended the event, which included remarks from Rev. Al Sharpton.
Brand USA Partners with America250 to Promote Nation’s Semiquincentennial
By Todd McElwee
Enthusiastic to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, Brand USA and America250 have announced a strategic partnership aimed at inspiring international audiences to explore the nation’s history, heritage, and culture throughout the anniversary year. “Brand USA is proud to partner with America250 to showcase the significance of this historic celebration to the world,” said Fred Dixon, President & CEO of Brand USA. “With our expertise in international marketing and storytelling, Brand USA is uniquely positioned to highlight the spirit and significance of America250 globally. Through this partnership, we’ll inspire travelers to connect with the places, people, and moments that define our nation—and invite them to be part of this historic milestone.” America250 is a nonpartisan initiative intended to engage every Amer-
ican in commemorating the 250th anniversary of our country. Chaired by Rosie Rios, CEO of Red River Associates, leadership includes a variety of Congressional leaders, Cabinet members, academics and others. As an official America250 Supporting Partner, Brand USA will work to amplify anniversary programming and broaden the reach and impact of the celebration. “As we look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, we’re thrilled to partner with Brand USA to invite the world to experience this momentous milestone,” said Ari Abergel, Executive Director of America250. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to honoring our past, celebrating our present, and inspiring a future grounded in the American Spirit. Together, we’re bringing America’s story to life for global audiences in unforgettable ways.” The announcement follows the recent launch of Brand USA’s new
Inside Page 3 Jim Cook Announced as Head of New Orleans’ Morial Convention Center Page 5 Conversation with Don Welsh, President & CEO, Destinations International
global tourism campaign, America the Beautiful, which the organization said invites the globe to discover the breathtaking landscapes and authentic experiences found throughout country. “As part of this effort, Brand USA will spotlight the anniversary celebration through curated travel itineraries and compelling storytelling that connect visitors to the people and places that embody the American spirit,” according to Brand USA. Learn more at AmericaTheBeautiful.com/ America-250.
Page 6 Mass. Shutters Almost All Hotel Shelters for Homeless Page 7 Get to Know Destinations International’s 30 Under 30 Honorees Page 27 Embrace the Future: Learning the Language of Placemaking and Destination Development