Editorial: Chicago has struggled to regain international tourism. Now that's coming true for the entire nation.
Even as New York recovered relatively quickly from the pandemic, Chicago has been struggling with international tourism.
Anyone who has been around town for a while can remember the days when there were far more foreign languages being spoken on Michigan Avenue. The challenges are self-evident but we'll tick them off: not enough major new attractions with global heft (like the lost Lucas Museum of Narrative Art); a lack of attention to the retail problems on the Magnificent Mile; lousy sports teams that haven't spawned another Michael Jordan; transit and other transportation challenges; 'teen takeovers' unnerving and sometimes harming tourists; the nagging international perception of Chicago equaling 'bang, bang'; the loss of some key international flights (albeit with the arrival of others); insufficient ignition of the city's massive architectural, historical, cultural and other assets; pandemic hangovers when it comes to the city's famed late-night scene, especially in the Loop; too much distance from international media; too much politically correct spending of tourism money in the 'right' aldermanic wards instead of focusing it on where international visitors really want to go.
All that and a certain culture of self-congratulation at Choose Chicago and a bit of Midwestern myopia, too.
We trust Reynolds, a tourism professional and very much not the political hack we feared, is aware of all of that, as well as the huge and beautiful assets on the other side of the ledger. But, frankly, the problems with international tourism are now far greater than anything specifically to do with Chicago.
Travel and Tour World, a trade publication, reported Wednesday that studies show inbound international travel to the U.S. is likely to decline by 5.5% in spending this year. That might not sound like much but last fall, prior to the election of the most isolationist president in living memory, 2025 was projected as a banner year for the sector, with anticipated spending growth a whopping 16%. Even a 5% decline represents a loss of billions of dollars as international tourists are big spenders.
Tourism World, an international forecasting firm based in Oxford, England, wrote in a research briefing late last month that we can expect to see a 9.4% decline in international visitor arrivals for 2025, led by a 20.2% decline in visitors from Canada. 'This loss includes $6.4 billion of decreased spending in destinations,' Tourism World wrote, 'plus $2.5 billion of lost transportation spending.' That's why airline stocks got hammered this week, including that of Chicago's hometown (at least for now) United Airlines, and why you are likely to see more flight cancellations as airlines recalibrate to meet demand.
Yet worse, the firm appended a note to its March 27 briefing Wednesday, saying the new, worse-than-expected tariffs announced Wednesday would increase 'negative impacts on US inbound travel.'
Why is all this happening? If you have to ask, you have not been paying attention.
Tourism World used the headline, 'Trump Rolls Up Welcome Mat for International Travelers,' and that pretty much says it all.
Crossings at the Canadian-U.S. border have dropped precipitously; 20% fewer Canadians are coming to the U.S., mostly because they're angry at Trump disrespecting their country with his '51st state' nonsense. Tourism World said a majority of Brits now have an unfavorable view of the U.S., as do a majority of Germans, along with French and Danish citizens, all numbers that have shown massive increases since Trump took office.
Plus there are genuine fears now of border detentions. The British press was full of the case of Becky Burke, a clearly benign 28-year-old backpacker who was denied entry to Canada from the U.S. due to the wrong Canadian visa, only then to have U.S. authorities put her in a detention facility where she languished for well over two weeks. While the full details of the case weren't clear, it appears that U.S. agents were worried Burke may have intended to do domestic work for a host family as a way of funding her solo travels, technically against the rules but hardly an egregious or uncommon offense.
Burke may have been careless and broken the rules, but she clearly had no intention to stay stateside and is no dangerous criminal. Stories like her more than two weeks of detention without a clear exit date given (or so her father told the BBC last month) are likely to make young 'gap year' travelers from Europe and Australasia change their minds about a planned U.S. road trip and pick friendlier nations like Canada instead.
Tourists are discretionary travelers and, notwithstanding its magnetic pull, the U.S. has competition for most of what it offers. Bermuda is seeing an explosive growth in Canadian visitors. Other Canadians are headed to Europe in greater numbers than before, at the expense of their North American neighbor.
We'll add that the experiences of 2001 and 2008 teach us that second cities like Chicago are more vulnerable to international flight pullbacks; links to capitals tend to be maintained even in recessions, but without that crucial leisure demand, it's hard to imagine, say, Chicago retaining its typical eight flights a day to London. (American Airlines had already cut its popular daytime flight.)
Foreign governments have been upping their travel warnings, too, especially for transgender travelers, to use one example.
This isn't rocket science: 'Leisure travelers have options,' Tourism World wrote, 'and negative shifts in sentiment toward the US are expected to adversely impact its global market share.'
So welcome to your new gig, Ms. Reynolds. You will have your work cut out for you.
Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Upturn
44 minutes ago
- Business Upturn
American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) Announces Agreement with C&L Distributing, Minnesota's Leading Beer Distributor, Becomes Latest Top-Tier Partner for American Rebel Light Beer
America's Patriotic Beer – American Rebel Light Expands Distribution Across the Mid-Western USA into Minnesota Nashville, TN, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Light Beer ( and American Rebel Beverages, a division of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) ( the fastest-growing patriotic lifestyle beer in the U.S., proudly announce their launch in Minnesota through a new distribution partnership with C&L Distributing, the largest beer distributor in central Minnesota. The partnership marks another major victory in American Rebel Light Beers rapid national expansion. From Nashville to the Nation: American Rebel Light Beer's Relentless Rise Continues In less than one year from its first production run—completed in Q3 2024—American Rebel Light Beer has stormed onto the scene, winning over some of the nation's most respected, top-tier beer distributors. This rapid-fire expansion is no accident—it's the product of a strategic offensive launched from our Nashville, Tennessee home base, pushing outward across the Southeastern U.S., the East Coast, and into critical Midwestern strongholds. The addition of Minnesota plants the American Rebel flag in our 13th state, with two more poised to join the ranks in the very near future. Every new territory is chosen with precision, ensuring we partner with distributors who not only deliver reach, but embody the same bold, unapologetic values that are displayed prominently and proudly on each can of American Rebel Light Beer. Our surge is powered by a high-impact rollout strategy that zeroes in on markets where our message resonates loudest, a boots-on-the-ground approach that forges real connections with consumers, and a relentless pursuit of excellence at retail. This isn't just growth—it's an American-made breakthrough that's rewriting the playbook for lifestyle beer brands. And in Minnesota, our newest alliance with C&L Distributing will only accelerate that momentum—uniting American Rebel Light Beer with a family-owned powerhouse that knows its market, commands respect and shares our patriotic business values. Minnesota becomes the 13th state in American Rebel's distribution footprint, with two additional states slated to launch in the very near future. The brand's momentum reflects a strategic rollout focused on high-affinity markets, grassroots engagement, and retail execution. C&L Distributing adds America's Fastest Growing Beer —Just in Time for NHRA Brainerd 'C&L Distributing is exactly the kind of partner we want riding with us—family-owned, battle-tested, and relentless in serving every retailer and watering hole across Minnesota,' said Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. 'Top Tier Distributors like C&L know this market like the back of their hand, and they share our unapologetic love of freedom, our pride in the Stars and Stripes, and our belief in the American way. We're proud to have them carrying America's Patriotic Beer—American Rebel Light—and together, we're ready to Rebel Up and take Minnesota by storm.' With a footprint that spans 35 counties and services more than 2,600 retailers from seven strategically located facilities, C&L Distributing ( stands as a market leader in Minnesota's beer and beverage industry. Headquartered in Sauk Rapids and proudly family-owned since its founding in 1983, C&L has been built over five generations on a foundation of integrity, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to its customers. Their reputation is the product of decades of executional excellence, award-winning customer service, and an unmatched understanding of retail dynamics. From small-town community bars to large-format national chains, C&L has cultivated deep, long-standing relationships that give them a decisive edge in reaching consumers where they live, work, and celebrate. Beyond beer, C&L's diverse portfolio is a testament to their market leadership. It features world-class brands like Anheuser-Busch InBev's full lineup, regional craft favorites, a robust selection of wines and spirits, and a growing range of non-alcoholic beverages—ensuring they deliver on every consumer occasion. For American Rebel Light Beer, partnering with C&L means more than just gaining a distributor—it means aligning with a company whose values and vision mirror our own. C&L's market expertise, proven track record, and dedication to long-term growth make them the ideal force to help establish and expand America's Patriotic Beer across Minnesota. The launch fires on all cylinders with American Rebel's full-throttle motorsports activation at the NHRA Nationals in Brainerd—where thousands of fans will raise a can, wave the flag, and experience America's Fastest Growing Beer firsthand. From on-site sampling and exclusive merchandise to high-visibility retail tie-ins, the brand will be front and center all weekend. Backed by C&L's unmatched distribution muscle, American Rebel Light Beer will hit shelves across the Brainerd Lakes region and beyond—driving trial, building loyalty, fueling repeat purchases and building lifetime patriotic customers. 'We don't plan on just showing up in Minnesota—we plan on taking over,' said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. 'American Rebel Light Beer is America's Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, and C&L Distributing has the horsepower to put us everywhere in Minnesota that beer drinkers' shop, gather, and celebrate. NHRA Brainerd is the perfect launchpad for us to plant the flag and never look back.' Minnesota Launch Highlights for American Rebel Light Beer American Rebel Light Beer's Minnesota debut is more than just another state launch—it's a strategic expansion designed for immediate market impact and long-term growth: Launch perfectly timed with the NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, delivering instant brand exposure to thousands of motorsports fans. Strategic distribution partnership with C&L Distributing, servicing 2,600+ retailers across 35 counties from seven strategically located facilities. Retail penetration across grocery, convenience, and independent channels ensures rapid consumer access and brand trial. Expanded geographic reach into the Brainerd Lakes region and central Minnesota—markets known for high beer consumption and loyal repeat buyers. On-site sampling, event activations, and motorsports tie-ins designed to convert event exposure into long-term consumer adoption. Minnesota becomes the 13th state in American Rebel's distribution network, with two additional state launches on the near-term horizon. Why Minnesota Is another Strategic Win for American Rebel Light Beer High consumption market — Ranks #3 in beer consumption per capita in the U.S., averaging 28.5 gallons per person annually (source: World Population Review). Cultural alignment — Minnesota consumers resonate with American Rebel's patriotic, freedom-first brand identity. Strong retail infrastructure — High-volume sales channels and category-loyal consumers present a prime environment for rapid market share growth. Regional growth potential — Serves as a strategic entry point for deeper penetration into the Midwest. Motorsports synergy — NHRA Brainerd and other regional events create recurring touchpoints to deepen consumer engagement and drive sales velocity American Rebel Light Beer isn't just expanding—it's on a mission. With C&L Distributing powering our presence in Minnesota, America's Fastest Growing Beer is charging full throttle toward becoming the #1 domestic light beer in the country. We're claiming shelf space, winning high profile iconic bar placements, and converting casual drinkers into lifetime loyalists who share our unapologetic love for freedom, faith, country, and motorsports. From Nashville to the North, this is more than a launch – it's the latest victory in a nationwide takeover. And make no mistake: the American Rebel Light Beer flag will keep flying higher, state after state, until we're leading the category from coast to coast. About American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) American Rebel began as a designer and marketer of branded safes and personal security products and has since grown into a diversified patriotic lifestyle company with offerings in beer, branded safes, apparel, and accessories. With the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer, the company is now making waves in the beverage space. Learn more at American Rebel Beer Watch the American Rebel Story as told by our CEO Andy Ross: The American Rebel Story About American Rebel Light Beer American Rebel Light is more than just a beer – it's a celebration of freedom, passion, and quality. Brewed with care and precision, our light beer delivers a refreshing taste that's perfect for every occasion. Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has rolled out in Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Virginia, Mississippi and now, Minnesota. For more information about the launch events and the availability of American Rebel Beer, please visit American Rebel Beer or follow us on social media platforms @AmericanRebelBeer. Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – all-natural, crisp, clean and bold with a lighter feel. At approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, it delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It's brewed without added supplements and doesn't contain corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass-produced beers. Media Inquiries Matt Sheldon [email protected] 917-280-7329 Distribution Opportunities Todd PorterPresident, American Rebel Beverage [email protected]
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) Announces Agreement with C&L Distributing, Minnesota's Leading Beer Distributor, Becomes Latest Top-Tier Partner for American Rebel Light Beer
American Rebel Holdings Inc America's Patriotic Beer - American Rebel Light Expands Distribution Across the Mid-Western USA into Minnesota Nashville, TN, Aug. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- American Rebel Light Beer ( and American Rebel Beverages, a division of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) ( the fastest-growing patriotic lifestyle beer in the U.S., proudly announce their launch in Minnesota through a new distribution partnership with C&L Distributing, the largest beer distributor in central Minnesota. The partnership marks another major victory in American Rebel Light Beers rapid national expansion. From Nashville to the Nation: American Rebel Light Beer's Relentless Rise Continues In less than one year from its first production run—completed in Q3 2024—American Rebel Light Beer has stormed onto the scene, winning over some of the nation's most respected, top-tier beer distributors. This rapid-fire expansion is no accident—it's the product of a strategic offensive launched from our Nashville, Tennessee home base, pushing outward across the Southeastern U.S., the East Coast, and into critical Midwestern strongholds. The addition of Minnesota plants the American Rebel flag in our 13th state, with two more poised to join the ranks in the very near future. Every new territory is chosen with precision, ensuring we partner with distributors who not only deliver reach, but embody the same bold, unapologetic values that are displayed prominently and proudly on each can of American Rebel Light Beer. Our surge is powered by a high-impact rollout strategy that zeroes in on markets where our message resonates loudest, a boots-on-the-ground approach that forges real connections with consumers, and a relentless pursuit of excellence at retail. This isn't just growth—it's an American-made breakthrough that's rewriting the playbook for lifestyle beer brands. And in Minnesota, our newest alliance with C&L Distributing will only accelerate that momentum—uniting American Rebel Light Beer with a family-owned powerhouse that knows its market, commands respect and shares our patriotic business values. Minnesota becomes the 13th state in American Rebel's distribution footprint, with two additional states slated to launch in the very near future. The brand's momentum reflects a strategic rollout focused on high-affinity markets, grassroots engagement, and retail execution. C&L Distributing adds America's Fastest Growing Beer —Just in Time for NHRA Brainerd 'C&L Distributing is exactly the kind of partner we want riding with us—family-owned, battle-tested, and relentless in serving every retailer and watering hole across Minnesota,' said Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. 'Top Tier Distributors like C&L know this market like the back of their hand, and they share our unapologetic love of freedom, our pride in the Stars and Stripes, and our belief in the American way. We're proud to have them carrying America's Patriotic Beer—American Rebel Light—and together, we're ready to Rebel Up and take Minnesota by storm.' With a footprint that spans 35 counties and services more than 2,600 retailers from seven strategically located facilities, C&L Distributing ( stands as a market leader in Minnesota's beer and beverage industry. Headquartered in Sauk Rapids and proudly family-owned since its founding in 1983, C&L has been built over five generations on a foundation of integrity, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to its customers. Their reputation is the product of decades of executional excellence, award-winning customer service, and an unmatched understanding of retail dynamics. From small-town community bars to large-format national chains, C&L has cultivated deep, long-standing relationships that give them a decisive edge in reaching consumers where they live, work, and celebrate. Beyond beer, C&L's diverse portfolio is a testament to their market leadership. It features world-class brands like Anheuser-Busch InBev's full lineup, regional craft favorites, a robust selection of wines and spirits, and a growing range of non-alcoholic beverages—ensuring they deliver on every consumer occasion. For American Rebel Light Beer, partnering with C&L means more than just gaining a distributor—it means aligning with a company whose values and vision mirror our own. C&L's market expertise, proven track record, and dedication to long-term growth make them the ideal force to help establish and expand America's Patriotic Beer across launch fires on all cylinders with American Rebel's full-throttle motorsports activation at the NHRA Nationals in Brainerd—where thousands of fans will raise a can, wave the flag, and experience America's Fastest Growing Beer firsthand. From on-site sampling and exclusive merchandise to high-visibility retail tie-ins, the brand will be front and center all weekend. Backed by C&L's unmatched distribution muscle, American Rebel Light Beer will hit shelves across the Brainerd Lakes region and beyond—driving trial, building loyalty, fueling repeat purchases and building lifetime patriotic customers. 'We don't plan on just showing up in Minnesota—we plan on taking over,' said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. 'American Rebel Light Beer is America's Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, and C&L Distributing has the horsepower to put us everywhere in Minnesota that beer drinkers' shop, gather, and celebrate. NHRA Brainerd is the perfect launchpad for us to plant the flag and never look back.' Minnesota Launch Highlights for American Rebel Light Beer American Rebel Light Beer's Minnesota debut is more than just another state launch—it's a strategic expansion designed for immediate market impact and long-term growth: Launch perfectly timed with the NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway, delivering instant brand exposure to thousands of motorsports fans. Strategic distribution partnership with C&L Distributing, servicing 2,600+ retailers across 35 counties from seven strategically located facilities. Retail penetration across grocery, convenience, and independent channels ensures rapid consumer access and brand trial. Expanded geographic reach into the Brainerd Lakes region and central Minnesota—markets known for high beer consumption and loyal repeat buyers. On-site sampling, event activations, and motorsports tie-ins designed to convert event exposure into long-term consumer adoption. Minnesota becomes the 13th state in American Rebel's distribution network, with two additional state launches on the near-term horizon. Why Minnesota Is another Strategic Win for American Rebel Light Beer High consumption market — Ranks #3 in beer consumption per capita in the U.S., averaging 28.5 gallons per person annually (source: World Population Review). Cultural alignment — Minnesota consumers resonate with American Rebel's patriotic, freedom-first brand identity. Strong retail infrastructure — High-volume sales channels and category-loyal consumers present a prime environment for rapid market share growth. Regional growth potential — Serves as a strategic entry point for deeper penetration into the Midwest. Motorsports synergy — NHRA Brainerd and other regional events create recurring touchpoints to deepen consumer engagement and drive sales velocity American Rebel Light Beer isn't just expanding—it's on a mission. With C&L Distributing powering our presence in Minnesota, America's Fastest Growing Beer is charging full throttle toward becoming the #1 domestic light beer in the country. We're claiming shelf space, winning high profile iconic bar placements, and converting casual drinkers into lifetime loyalists who share our unapologetic love for freedom, faith, country, and motorsports. From Nashville to the North, this is more than a launch - it's the latest victory in a nationwide takeover. And make no mistake: the American Rebel Light Beer flag will keep flying higher, state after state, until we're leading the category from coast to coast. About American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) American Rebel began as a designer and marketer of branded safes and personal security products and has since grown into a diversified patriotic lifestyle company with offerings in beer, branded safes, apparel, and accessories. With the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer, the company is now making waves in the beverage space. Learn more at American Rebel Beer Watch the American Rebel Story as told by our CEO Andy Ross: The American Rebel Story About American Rebel Light Beer American Rebel Light is more than just a beer – it's a celebration of freedom, passion, and quality. Brewed with care and precision, our light beer delivers a refreshing taste that's perfect for every occasion. Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has rolled out in Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Virginia, Mississippi and now, Minnesota. For more information about the launch events and the availability of American Rebel Beer, please visit American Rebel Beer or follow us on social media platforms @AmericanRebelBeer. Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – all-natural, crisp, clean and bold with a lighter feel. At approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, it delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It's brewed without added supplements and doesn't contain corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass-produced beers. Media Inquiries Matt SheldonMatt@ Distribution Opportunities Todd PorterPresident, American Rebel Beveragetporter@ Investor Relations ir@ Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the 'Company,' 'American Rebel,' 'we,' 'our' or 'us') desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words 'forecasts,' 'believe,' 'may,' 'estimate,' 'continue,' 'anticipate,' 'intend,' 'should,' 'plan,' 'could,' 'target,' 'potential,' 'is likely,' 'expect' and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of our continued sponsorship of high profile events, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2025. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law. Attachment American Rebel Holdings IncSign in to access your portfolio
Business Journals
2 days ago
- Business Journals
RedKey Realty Leaders BizSpotlight
RedKey Realty Leaders, a top-performing independent regional real estate firm, is hosting an event: Elevating St. Louis: Strategies for Growing and Enhancing Our Region on Wednesday, September 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. The event will feature thought leaders and innovators from St. Louis and groundbreakers in the real estate and housing markets; it will be both a presentation and a dialogue with those in attendance. The event will take place at Vue 17 located at 1034 S. Brentwood Blvd, 17th floor, in St. Louis. Doors open at 9 a.m., breakfast will be served, and members of the media and public are welcome to attend. The event will be based on the comprehensive findings of the recently commissioned impact report and analysis created in collaboration with Washington University in St. Louis and will serve as a platform for dynamic discussions on key challenges and opportunities shaping the St. Louis region. The report, developed in partnership with Washington University's Center for Experiential Learning, investigates vital aspects of the local real estate market, demographic shifts, public policies, and migration patterns, comparing these findings with similarly-sized Midwestern cities. The event will be moderated by Jill Butler, CEO and Founder of RedKey Realty, and Nate Johnson, President of Real Estate Solutions at RedKey, and will feature a series of panel discussions with regional leaders, policy makers, and industry experts. J.S. Onesimo 'Ness' Sandoval, Ph.D., Director of the MS Sociology Program and Co-Director of the Public and Social Policy Ph.D. Program at Saint Louis University and Suzanne Sierra, Executive Director for the St. Louis Mosaic Project and Catalyst for Economic Development, will provide insights into the factors influencing the region's growth. Topics will include the current state of St. Louis housing, the factors driving people to move into and out of the area, and strategies for attracting new residents and businesses to the region so that St. Louis doesn't stagnate. 'RedKey has always been interested in regional growth trends—beyond just the housing market,' said Butler. 'I'm thrilled to be able to bring this kind of strategic conversation to our region so that we can continue to build together.' Highlights of the event include: overview of the St. Louis housing market; comparative analysis with other midwestern cities; opportunities to elevate St. Louis; and engaging conversations with reginal leaders on critical topics such as economic development, affordable housing, public transportation, and quality of life improvements. Building on the success of this event, RedKey plans to host similar gatherings in 2026 focusing on the impact of arts, retail, and other sectors on the region's growth. 'These efforts will continue to foster dynamic conversations that inform and drive proactive efforts to elevate St. Louis as a premier destination to live, work, and visit,' said Butler. Those interested in attending must RSVP at by September 2. Only 150 seats are available.
