Power Hour
10/11/2024
Rock Island, IL
U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (IL-17) met with more than 20 local travel industry leaders in Rock Island, IL to discuss travel's economic impact at the state and local levels.
Key Speaker
The Honorable Eric Sorensen
U.S. Representative (IL-17)
Discussion Summary
Representative Eric Sorensen met with more than 20 local travel industry leaders in Rock Island, IL to discuss travel’s economic impact at the state and local levels. In addition to federal policy issues such as Brand USA funding and lowering visitor visa and customs wait times, the group also discussed local issues, including workforce challenges, agritourism, sustainability opportunities, and transportation innovations/solutions.
Attendees
- Heather Calvert, Butterworth Foundation and Deere-Wiman Historic Homes
- Neil Dahlstrom, John Deere
- J.D. Dalfonso, Discover Peoria
- Alexandra Elias, Renew Moline
- Beth Esmoil, Wyndham Moline and Element Hotel/Quad Cities Lodging Association
- Nicole Haas, Greater Freeport
- Jock Hedblade, Macomb CVB
- Kasi Henshaw, Mercer County Tourism
- Dave Herrell, Visit Quad Cities
- John Groh, Go Rockford
- Jim Kelly, Henry County Tourism
- Erin Knacksted, Henry County Tourism
- Beth Lagomarcino, Lagomarcino’s
- Ben Leischner, Quad Cities International Airport
- Matthew Lenox, Visit NW Illinois
- Jeff Nelson, MetroLink
- Andrew Newhart, U.S. Travel Association
- Kai Swanson, Rock Island County Preserve and County Board Member
- Mayor Mike Thoms, City of Rock Island
- Ryan Wille, Quad City Botanical Center
- Kelly Wolf, Henry County Tourism
Join the Effort
Help our Travel Action Network spread the word and educate leaders about critical travel industry priorities.