WHLA brings Quarterly Lodging Innsights and Wisconsin Women in Lodging events to Eau Claire

The second event in WHLA’s new live series - Quarterly Lodging Innsights - was held on May 23 at the Metropolis Resort in Eau Claire. WHLA members and hoteliers from the area gather for timely lodging-focused education and professional networking.

​The afternoon began at the Wisconsin Women in Lodging Lunch where WWIL Committee Chair Krissy Sigmund (Chula Vista Resort) welcomed the group to the event and shared information on recent WWIL events. During the lunch, attendees participated in a facilitated networking activity and shared their ideas for supporting future leaders and advancing women in the industry. 

WHLA Board Chair Jon Jossart (Ambassador Hotel - Milwaukee) welcomed attendees to the Quarterly Lodging Innsights Educational sessions. During the opening remarks, Jossart said, “Back in January we had our first Innsights day in Beloit, and it was a great success. I’m sure that we’ll continue with that momentum today, and you’ll find the networking and education here to be valuable and informative.”

The event began at 2 pm, and featured four educational sessions addressing topics of key concerns for Wisconsin lodging owners and operators.

Room Tax Primer & How it Affects Your Bottom Line

WHLA’s President and CEO Bill Elliott shared information on Wisconsin’s Room Tax system and reviewed the resources available to help with Room Tax questions.

​Local Tourism Advocacy in Western Wisconsin

​The third session of the event placed a spotlight on the local tourism leaders in the region and highlighted their collaboration efforts. WHLA Board Member and General Manager of the Metropolis Resort - Sara Abbott moderated this panel discussion featuring Benny Anderson, Visit Eau Claire, Tammy Simon, Menomonie Area Chamber & Visitors Center, and Allyson Wisniewski, Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce.

Using Data to Drive Reservations and Revenue

The third session explored booking trends by channel and how to use that information to increase profitability. Jon Jossart moderated this panel with Mike Patel (MoveMent Hospitality), Becky Squires (Larson Management Company), and Krissy Sigmund (Chula Vista Resort).

Idea Exchange: Rewarding, Recognizing, and Recruiting Employees

Attendees shared ideas and learned new tools, tactics, and best practices for employee recruitment, recognition, and engagement. WHLA’s Workplace Culture Task Force Chair Sara Abbott introduced this interactive session and served as a moderator with Randy Talwar (Days Inn & Suites Madison) and Ryan Batley (Best Western Premier Bridgewood Resort).

Evening Events

Following a full afternoon of education, attendees came together for a reception sponsored by Visit Eau Claire. State Representative Jodi Emerson was in attendance and spoke to the group. 
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Following dinner, attendees enjoyed the amenities in the Metropolis Resort’s Action Center including the go-kart track, trampoline park, bowling alley, arcade and laser tag center.

Future Lodging Innsights Events

The next Lodging Innsight Day will be held in September in Green Bay. For more information on this event series visit WisconsinLodging.org/innsights.

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