Latest news with #VisitBaltimore
Technical.ly
19-06-2025
- Business
- Technical.ly
Baltimore will keep CIAA tournament through 2029, officials announce
An annual basketball tournament held during Black History Month and bringing a wide economic footprint will stay in Baltimore through the end of the decade, local officials announced. Public and private sector leaders on Wednesday gathered at the Baltimore Visitor Center in the Inner Harbor to announce the city won the bid to host the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) competition from 2027 to 2029. Baltimore has hosted the popular HBCU tournament since 2022, a start date that was delayed a year by the pandemic. Competition is intense to host the event, which features games between historically Black colleges and universities throughout the mid-Atlantic and Southern United States. With this latest win, Baltimore notably beat out Charlotte, North Carolina, which hosted the CIAA between 2006 and 2020. At the announcement, many speakers — including leaders from CIAA members Bowie State University and Lincoln University, Baltimore-based sports apparel giant Under Armour, Maryland's Department of Commerce, tourism arm Visit Baltimore and insurance company CareFirst — highlighted the tournament's impact and significance beyond the court. 'My favorite part of this relationship is the deep investment into community,' said Mayor Brandon Scott. 'The CIAA goes all out: financial literacy, health summits, skills camps … so that we're growing the generation of CIAA graduates to come back to Baltimore and go into communities to help make us the best version of ourselves.' This impact extends to the city's business and startup communities, which each earned a major spotlight during prior tournaments. In 2024, the city saw a total economic impact of $32.5 million, including $23.6 million in direct spending, according to Visit Baltimore. Al Hutchinson, the tourism agency's outgoing CEO (whom Mayor Scott recognized at the end of the Wednesday press conference), previously said that the tournament generated $81.7 million in total economic impact and funded an average of 1,326 jobs each year between 2022 and 2024. The 2025 financial figures dropped a little, with this year's tournament boasting $19.8 million in direct spending and $27.4 million in total economic impact. That said, the number of jobs created, by Visit Baltimore's tally, grew to 1,487. For the innovation community, the tournament offered the chance to showcase Baltimore's Black technologists, entrepreneurs and other sector players during the annual Tech Summit House program. The series of talks and pitch contests revolving around topics like AI, Africa's startup world and how to navigate an industry filled with racist disparities dovetailed with local boosters' broader goal of highlighting this predominantly Black city's unique assets. 'The tournament particularly uplifts Black-owned businesses, highlights our HBCU legacy,' Hutchinson previously told 'and adds to the vibrant mix of music, arts and culture that define Baltimore's Black community.' Although he didn't speak during Wednesday's presser, Mark Anthony Thomas, CEO and president of the Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC), said he took part in a pitch to host the tournament last week. He and others only found out about the acceptance this week. For Thomas, the fact that none of Baltimore's HBCUs are in the CIAA (the closest being Bowie State in Prince George's County, near DC) was actually an asset. 'The most successful ends are when you don't have the natural advantages of other markets,' Thomas told before the press conference. 'We don't have any of the CIAA schools, we're not central to where they're located. And it means that Baltimore overperforms on charm, our ability to be collaborative and a great partner with the CIAA — and we actually put on a good show.' Just a day earlier, Thomas held a fireside chat at the GBC's Inner Harbor offices with Jonathan Bowles, executive director of the New York City-based Center for an Urban Future. For nearly an hour, the pair spoke before GBC members about topics including the growth of New York's tech economy, the Great Recession's lessons in economic diversification and what Baltimore can learn from the country's biggest city. One theme Bowles hit on was the importance of the cultural sector to a city's development. Thomas connected this to the current bid, and the way Baltimore's economy can build upon the prior tournaments. 'In our 10-year plan, creative and culture is one of the three opportunity areas, so this is central to that type of potential we see for the region,' he said. 'Obviously, it's a risk. Visit Baltimore initially pursued this, and so you think about the risk they took — to even believe that Baltimore had a chance at competing for this — and for it to have been successful, now twice, is a huge endorsement of the infrastructure they built.' community Slack and visiting the #baltimore channel.
Yahoo
21-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Visit Baltimore names Kireem Swinton as interim leader
Visit Baltimore, the city's sales and marketing organization, has named Kireem Swinton the interim president and CEO effective July 1. Swinton, who recently served as Visit Baltimore's vice president of sales and customer experience, replaces Al Hutchinson, who chose not to have his contract renewed last month after eight years at the helm. The Baltimore Convention and Tourism Board unanimously approved Swinton's new role on March 19. 'I'm honored to step into this interim role to lead a dynamic team that continues to position Baltimore as a world-class destination,' Swinton said in a statement. 'As we move forward, I am committed to amplifying Baltimore's positive stories, fostering relationships across the city and driving innovative strategies that attract major conventions and leisure visitors at this exciting time in our city's history.' Swinton, who hails from Washington, D.C., spent two decades in senior roles with Marriott Hotels and Visit Seattle. As vice president of sales and customer experience at Visit Baltimore, Swinton helped secure major citywide bookings, including the 2033 American Society of Association Executives Annual Meeting & Exposition, which is expected to bring between $15 million and $18 million to the city, according to Visit Baltimore. Swinton has also developed key partnerships with hoteliers, industry leaders and national organizations. 'The transition committee of the BCTB developed the ideal plan for ensuring Visit Baltimore moves forward in a seamless and positive way,' Charles 'Chuck' Tildon, III, Visit Baltimore's board chair, said in a statement. 'The decision to elevate Kireem to Interim President & CEO reflects the board's commitment to maintaining a strong, award-winning organizational culture while ensuring continued success in driving critical economic impact for the city.' Under Hutchinson's tenure, the city broke tourism records, with 27.5 million visitors in 2023, according to the organization. Visit Baltimore also secured deals to host events to bring in millions of dollars to the local economy. In addition, the city became the host of the CIAA college men's and women's basketball tournament, which had a $32.5 million economic impact, including $3.1 million in taxes in 2024, according to Visit Baltimore. The tournament is committed to staying in Baltimore through 2026. Mayor Brandon Scott approved Swinton's appointment, citing confidence in his previous experiences. 'Baltimore has achieved record-breaking visitation numbers in recent years, and I have full confidence in Kireem's ability to continue this momentum as the interim leader for Visit Baltimore,' Scott said in a statement. 'Kireem has the experience and know-how to see us through the transition, ensuring the city loses no ground as a destination of choice.' Have a news tip? Contact Todd Karpovich at tkarpovich@ or on X as @ToddKarpovich.
CBS News
14-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CBS News
Where to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in the Baltimore area
St. Patrick's Day weekend is up ahead, and many are gearing up for local celebrations. Here's a list of festivities for those looking to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in the Baltimore area. 63rd Annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade The 63rd Annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade begins at 2 p.m. at the Washington Monument in Mount Vernon. Spectators can experience Maryland's premier Irish celebration at Baltimore's St. Patrick's Day Parade, a tradition spanning more than 65 years, according to Visit Baltimore. Attendees gather along downtown Baltimore and the Inner Harbor to witness a showcase of Irish culture, music, and dance. The parade begins at 2 p.m. at the Washington Monument, traveling south on Charles Street before turning east on Pratt Street and concluding at Market Place. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as the Shamrock 5k race begins at 1 p.m. Shamrock 5K Race Taking place immediately before the Baltimore St. Patrick Parade is the Shamrock 5k Race. The race begins at 1:00 p.m. at Charles & Mulberry Streets and finishes at Power Plant Live. There are less than 100 tickets available online. After finishing the race, participants can celebrate at Power Plant Live!, and enjoy live music on stage, snacks, prize drawings, and drinks for those 21 or older. Guinness Open Gate Brewery's St. Patrick's Day Celebration Visitors can enjoy a festive St. Patrick's celebration at Guinness Open Gate Brewery, through Monday, March 17. The Halethorpe brewery transforms into an Irish Village featuring live local music, traditional Irish dancers, and limited-edition holiday beers paired with authentic Irish cuisine. Beer enthusiasts can participate in guided food and beer pairings led by local experts, while exclusive merchandise will be available only during the celebration period. Guests can enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating, including a lively beer garden with music and interactive activities throughout the festivities. Baltimore Canton St. Patrick's Bar Crawl You can kick off St. Patrick's Day festivities early at the Canton Irish Stroll Bar Crawl. The event begins at O'Donnell Square Park at 1 p.m. on March 8, where participants can register and receive a map and wristband. The crawl features discounted beverages including $3.50 Bud Light, $3.50 Guinness Blonde, and $4.50 specialty drinks. Participants receive complimentary souvenirs while enjoying music and entertainment at multiple venues. Participating locations include Claddagh Pub, Sopro, El Bufalo, Walt's Inn, and several other popular Canton establishments. This 21+ event runs from 1 PM to 9 PM on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at O'Donnell Square Park at 1021 South Linwood Avenue. Attendees must present government-issued photo identification for entry. Road Closures The following roads will be closed due to the parade, race, and other festivities, according to the Baltimore Banner. 1000 S. Curley Street between O'Donnell and Dillon Streets, 3 p.m. Thursday-1 p.m. Sunday 1400 S. Charles Street between E. Fort Avenue and E. Clement Street, 5 a.m. Saturday-2 a.m. Sunday Jones Falls Expressway/I-83 right northbound and southbound left lane between Fayette Street and the city/county line, 6 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday Market Place from Pratt to Water Streets, starting 11:30 a.m. on Sunday Water Street from Frederick Street to Market Place, starting 11:30 a.m. on Sunday Charles Street from Madison Avenue to E. Pratt Street, starting 11:30 a.m. on Sunday Mt. Vernon Place from Cathedral to St. Paul Streets (both sides), starting 11:30 a.m. on Sunday Centre Street from Park Avenue to St. Paul Street, starting 11:30 a.m. on Sunday Mulberry Street from Park Avenue to Lovegrove Street (south side), starting 11:30 a.m. on Sunday Pratt Street from Howard Street to President Street, starting 11:30 a.m. on Sunday Key Highway at Lawrence Street, starting at 12:30 p.m. for the duration of the 5K Run Lombard Street from President Street to Market Place, 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Parking restrictions in effect Sunday from midnight to 5 p.m.: Mulberry Street (south side) from Park Avenue to Lovegrove Street Charles Street (east side) from E. Pratt Street to E. Charles Street Light Street (west side) from E. Conway Street to Key Highway Key Highway (both sides) from Light Street to Jackson Street Parking restrictions in effect Sunday from midnight to 8:30 - 6:30 p.m.: Mt. Vernon Place eastbound and westbound from Cathedral Street to St. Paul Street Charles Street from Madison Street to E. Pratt Street. Centre Street from Morton Alley to Lovegrove Street E. Pratt Street (north side) from S. Gay Street to Market Place Market Place (west side) from E. Pratt Street to Water Street S. Light Street (east side) between E. Lombard Street and E. Pratt Street (inlet parking lane). S. Light Street (west side) between E. Pratt Street and Sullivan's Steakhouse (inlet parking lane)
CBS News
27-02-2025
- Health
- CBS News
CIAA Tournament summit addresses resources for health and mental wellness
BALTIMORE -- CIAA Tournament week in Baltimore is about more than basketball. There are resources and events within the community. CIAA Tournament's Health and Mental Wellness Summit, a free event to address health disparities, mental health wellness, cooking healthy meals and keeping fit through Zumba, was held on Thursday at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. "Even though CIAA is a basketball tournament and an amazing tournament, we wanted to make sure there are other things that are happening, to include the community," said CIAA event producer Sonjie DeCaires. DeCaires hopes this event will expose visitors to community resources that will better their well-being. Thursday's event featured a panel of mental health advocates. "Go to the doctor," DeCaires said. "If something's wrong with you, advocate for yourself. Don't let them send you home because you never know what may be wrong. That's what a lot of experts are saying on the panel. We have to be proactive in our community to make sure we're ahead of the curve." CIAA organizers will host a Tech Summit at the Rita Rossi Caldwell Center from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28. There will be a Financial Summit, presented by Bank of America, focused on financial literacy at the Rita Rossi Caldwell Center from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 1. The week-long events are a collaboration between organizers and Visit Baltimore. Spreading awareness Tamika Felder shared her story of finding out she had cervical cancer at 25 years old, and she had to endure a "radical hysterectomy." "When you're young, you don't think about getting cancer," said Felder, a cancer survivor. Felder made it her mission to spread awareness at Thursday's Health and Mental Wellness Summit. "Having this event, in this space, during Black History Month, is the chef's kiss," Felder said. "We know more than ever. If we do not talk about health and equities, that health gap will grow bigger."
CBS News
26-02-2025
- Business
- CBS News
Black-owned Baltimore businesses benefitting from CIAA tournaments
This week's CIAA basketball tournament is bringing big opportunities for Black-owned businesses in Baltimore. Visit Baltimore, the city's tourism organization, is celebrating the city's rich Black culture and navigating paths for visitors to explore. "Folks come here and enjoy the basketball but they also enjoy our small businesses, especially our Black-owned businesses in Baltimore," said Al Hutchinson, the President & CEO of Visit Baltimore. "It really uplifts the community. It gets people excited about coming out and supporting the student athletes." The CIAA is the oldest Black athletics conference in the country. Its men's and women's basketball tournaments run through March 1. Celebrating Baltimore Baltimore is the host of the CIAA Tournament for the fifth year after moving from Charlotte. For a full week, thousands of fans and alumni are celebrating their Historically Black Colleges and Universities in one setting. However, the impact goes far beyond the basketball court. Al Hutchinson, from Visit Baltimore, is using the momentum to highlight Black entrepreneurs through the "Bop pass." Bop, slang for a long walk, is a free digital passport offering discounts at more than 40 local businesses, museums, and restaurants. "We really want to push them all over Baltimore, celebrating the greatness of the Black business community in the city, and earn some points while you do it, have fun with it," Hutchinson said. One of those Black businesses showcases is Black Acres Roastery in Lexington Market. "It gives us an opportunity to be on a larger platform and to showcase what we do as a local business, just not for the local people, but the people that are coming in and may not make it here," said Travis Bell, the founder of Black Acres Roastery. And, don't miss out on Harp Vision, a vegan home and body care business created to find natural solutions to everyday skincare needs. "We offer vegan soaps, plant-based skin cream, and deodorant and lip balm as well," said April Harper, the co-founder Harp Vision. Tourism boost The CIAA Tournament is a major boost to tourism in the Baltimore area. In 2024, the week-long events generated $32.55 million. "This brings visibility to our business and other small businesses as well," Harper said. CIAA Week is not just about selling products, but it's also about the community by showcasing Charm City's diversity and bringing people together. "Just being able to work with other makers in Baltimore, to showcase what we do and the hard work that we put into our businesses here in Baltimore," Bell said.
