ASPEN, COLO.: The 40th annual Food & Wine Classic returns to Aspen June 16-18 this year. The event plans to celebrate its anniversary with all-star culinary talent Bobby Flay, Marcus Samuelsson, and Carla Hall in attendance. Guests can also expect a mix of cooking demonstrations, wine and spirits seminars, and panel discussions with industry experts. Tickets are now available on the Food & Wine Classic’s website.

NEW ORLEANS: The Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Exhibition Hall Authority recently took action to authorize nearly $37 million in funding for the repair and replacement of its 41-acre roof. This allows work to move forward on the first major improvement of the physical building itself under the approved $557 million capital improvement plan. The roof replacement is the first major element of work under the Construction Manager at Risk process.

ORLANDO, FLA: Visit Orlando has announced the appointment of Mario J. Bass as its new chief operating officer. With more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Bass joins Visit Orlando from Visit San Antonio, where he spent the previous five years. At Visit Orlando—the Official Tourism Association of Orlando, Fla.—Bass will oversee internal operations, lead and implement strategic initiatives, and uphold the company’s mission, vision, and values.

SARASOTA, FLA.: Sodexo Live! has announced a new agreement with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium as the opening of Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA) approaches its late 2024 opening. The hospitality partner will handle all of the aquarium’s food and beverage offerings, as well as special event catering. Upon opening, Mote SEA will boast 110,000 square feet and is expected to attract 700,000 visitors in its first year.

WASHINGTON, D.C.: Destination DC (DDC) has welcomed 36 new DEI business fellowship members. This continues the DMO's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by supporting small, minority-owned local businesses as part of a complimentary membership program. Fellows receive a free, one-year membership to DDC, which provides access to marketing support and networking opportunities. The class of 2023 DEI fellows includes catering company The District Pit and event consulting firm Events by Chalk.