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Articles by Steve Winston
Who is Ed Miliband listening to?
(Sept. 16, 2026 / JNS) When U.K. Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband defended the British government’s latest measures against Israel in the House of Commons last week amid a barrage of inflammatory and baseless accusations against the Jewish state and its communities in Judea and Samaria, one exchange stood out.
The Blogs: When Ideology Overtakes Education
A very recent incident at Bristol Brunel Academy has shone a harsh light on a troubling trend in British education. A Jewish Member of Parliament, Damien Egan, was prevented from visiting a secondary school in his own constituency after pressure from pro-Palestine activists, reportedly involving members of the National Education Union. The justification offered was that his presence, because of his views on Israel, could make staff, pupils, and parents feel unsafe. The implication is stark.
Walking The Highlands And Hebrides
A chill north wind blows across a landscape, stark but beautiful at the same time. But a peat fire is always nearby in some stone cottage with a thatched roof, where both the occupants and the ambiance are warm (and so, sometimes, is the beer; this is Britain, after all!). The sounds of the breeze are occasionally broken by the “baaah-ing” of a group of sheep.
Jewish identity hijacked in UK for political vanity Original
(April 27, 2025 / JNS) There is no shortage of people willing to sign their names to morally unserious causes. There is, however, something particularly grotesque about 36 elected deputies of the Board of Deputies of British Jews using their position not to speak for their community, but to attack it. Published on April 16 in the Financial Times, their letter condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza was not just misleading, it was a textbook case of political vanity masquerading as moral courage.
OP-ED - Those Deputies’ False Conscience
There is a long tradition in Western intellectual life of dissent cloaked in the trappings of moral authority. But rarely does it appear in such self-satisfied form as it did this past week, when 36 elected Deputies of the Board of Deputies of British Jews signed a letter published last week in the Financial Times condemning Israel’s war against Hamas. The letter, signed not by private citizens but by individuals elected to represent Jewish communities across the UK, was not just disingenuous.
OPINION: Governments come and go, but there are 75 reasons to keep celebrating Israel
Israel turns 75 years young next month – three-quarters of a century old, and despite insurmountable odds, the modern Jewish state is more than merely existing and surviving; it is thriving in so many ways. As committed Zionists, we know how disheartening it is to see and hear what is currently going on in Israel. There are trends that are concerning many people in Israel as well as many in the Diaspora.
Orlando: A Meetings Destination for the Ages | Smart Meetings
…and for all ages Needless to say, visitors of all ages agree that Orlando has the greatest attractions on Earth. But anyone who’s ever attended a meeting in The City Beautiful also knows that the parks are just the beginning. For example, this region is a natural paradise, with dozens of state parks, natural springs and wooded trails. Attendees also play outside on the 44 golf courses, 5,500 lakes and numerous nature preserves, and they can do it almost every day of the year.
My Top 3 July Fourth Vacation Getaways in America Revealed for 2022
When we Americans talk about the ties that bind us, the Fourth of July always comes up in the conversation. It's a holiday that not only celebrates freedom for Americans, but also the idea that all people are entitled to be free. On this day, America celebrates its dynamism. It's creativity. Its diversity. And its Declaration of Independence -- the original reason for this holiday. And on July 4, America celebrates this holiday with great food, great friends and family, and often, in great hotels.
West Florida: Gulf Coast, Inside and Out
Year-round sunshine, Old South hospitality and New South venues attract all y’all The Gulf Coast of Florida stretches for about 770 miles from Flamingo in the south to Alabama in the west. Within this expanse is a kaleidoscopic mix of local histories and colorful characters, cuisines ranging from Continental to Cracker, and recreational opportunities from deep-sea fishing to world-class golf.
Under the Big Top
For the better part of six years, the centerpiece of Gulfstream Park’s latest entertainment innovation sat in storage. Back in 2016, the idea behind the $650,000 purchase was to provide a unique new attraction at the ever-evolving venue in Hallandale Beach, which also includes the Village at Gulfstream Park. There was just one challenge.
Los Cabos, Mexico: An Incentive Paradise
Meeting planners are discovering a different side of Mexico The region called Los Cabos (“The Capes”) is at the southern end of the 1,000-mile-long Baja California peninsula, just to the west of mainland Mexico. But it has a history and a climate and a charm that’s distinct from the rest of the country.
Though an African-American physician in Chicago, Daniel Hale Williams, is credited with performing an open-heart procedure in 1893 by closing a stab wound to the organ, it would be more than a half-century before a series of breakthroughs slowly shed light on all that was possible involving cardiac surgery.
South Florida Meetings: Health, Wellness and Productivity
South Florida’s tri-county area offers a unique set of benefits to planners. Attendees can enjoy the outdoors—and the accent on wellness—all year long. In this place where the sun always shines, there are two National Parks and one National Preserve, including America’s only tropical jungle (Everglades National Park).
Top 5 Christmas Getaways in America Revealed
It's been an up-and-down year for many of us, for certain. But now, well, who isn't ready for - as the song says - "the happ, happ, happiest season of all"? It's Christmastime, and hotels and inns and resorts throughout America are ready to celebrate the season with glittering decorations and holiday feasts and special events and glowing fireplaces and the unique ambience and warmth that only this season can bring. And here are five of the greatest places to enjoy this special Holiday warmth...
Citywide Hybrids Break New Ground
Technology will be a key player in the emerging meetings scene. The past 20 months have added a whole new list of words to our vocabulary. Before February of 2020, the words “Zoom call” or “protocols” would never have been spoken in the regular course of business. Now, however, meeting planners are regularly discussing and reimagining the definition of “hybrid meeting.” Another new addition to the lexicon has emerged: “citywide hybrid”.
Where Meetings Are Back
Orlando, South Walton and The Palm Beaches are more welcoming than ever Visitors—including meeting planners and attendees—are coming to Florida again. The numbers tell the story. The state enjoyed a 223.4 percent increase in visitors the second quarter of 2021 compared to the same period in 2020. Some of the reasons are obvious. Attendees can be outside all year long. From top tourist attractions to world-class beach activities, options are endless.
My Top 4 Thanksgiving Getaways in North America Revealed
Who doesn't love Thanksgiving? Family. Friends. Food. Football. Festive tables, bursting with juicy turkey, cranberry sauce (with small chunks of fruit inside?), stuffing, special Holiday gravy, candied yams, sparkling candles, happy conversation with loved ones, plenty of warm embraces and plenty of laughter. And, of course, to start off the happy day, one of the world's most famous parades. After all...who doesn't love Thanksgiving?
Zionist Federation's Statement on PSC's 'Reject IHRA' campaign
by Steve Winston | Sep 30, 2021 | Blog Read below the Zionist Federation’s statement following a recent campaign launched by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign to reject the IHRA working definition on Antisemitism. 30th September 2021 The Zionist Federation of the UK and Ireland are concerned at the Palestine Solidarity Campaign’s (PSC) efforts to reject the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of Antisemitism.
My Top 4 Labor Day Getaways of 2021 Revealed
By the time we reach September - every year - we could all use a day off. But this year, after 18 months of COVID, it comes at the perfect time! Soon we'll see the seasons change, and the return of cooler weather and autumn breezes. And we'll see the blossoming of brilliant flora and fauna across landscapes that have, for the most part, baked in the sun for the past four months. The beginning of autumn is a time to recharge our inner-batteries - and our souls.
Rustic Fourth of July Getaways in America Revealed
Perfect timing! We're about to enjoy the one holiday that can bring every American together. The Fourth of July reminds us that we are all sons and daughters of America. And we are all lucky enough to live in a land that is still blessed in many ways...such as the ways in which we treasure our common heritage. And there may be no better place to celebrate the birthday of America than the place that gave it so much of its legend, lore, and colorful characters - the American West.
The Zionist Federation: Onwards and upwards!
Jun 8, 2021, 6:43 PM Please note that the posts on The Blogs are contributed by third parties. The opinions, facts and any media content in them are presented solely by the authors, and neither The Times of Israel nor its partners assume any responsibility for them. Please contact us in case of abuse. In case of abuse, Report this post. The Zionist Federation of the UK and Ireland (ZF) is 122 years old.
An open Letter To Those Using Social Media To Demonise Israel
May 16, 2021, 8:55 PM Please note that the posts on The Blogs are contributed by third parties. The opinions, facts and any media content in them are presented solely by the authors, and neither The Times of Israel nor its partners assume any responsibility for them. Please contact us in case of abuse. In case of abuse, Report this post. Note: This blog entry was written by a A 24-year old Brit in Tel Aviv who wishes to remain anonymous. The Zionist Federation are proud to publish it on their behalf.
Top 5 Valentine's Day Getaways in America Revealed
Wow. Our whole world can change from Valentine's Day to Valentine's Day, can't it? Very few of us realized, last Valentine's day, what was in store for the coming year. Which makes it even more important to appreciate the ones we love this year. And to appreciate this special holiday. This year - for the first time in a year - we have hope. And what better place to experience that hope than at a beautiful, atmospheric resort where Valentine's Day can take on a very special meaning.
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WPJ's News Team is dedicated to developing timely news, features and analysis to serve our global real estate audience. Representing diverse backgrounds and interests, reporters are committed to following WPJ's standards for accuracy and excellence.
My Top 5 Christmas Getaways in America Revealed
#5 - THE HERMITAGE HOTEL, NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - This classic hotel in the Music Capital of America is a true homage to Old South elegance, with its white stone/brick façade with giant columns and bas-relief sculptures and huge vertical windows that are rounded on top. And the interior is just as elegant.
Fresh New Hotels from Florida to Dubai
By Thérèse Harvey December 9, 2020 Hilton Garden Inn Camden Waterfront, New Jersey The first new hotel to debut in Camden in 50 years, this brand-new Hilton property has 180 rooms and 4,172 sq. ft. of meeting space equipped with projection screens and built-in audiovisual tech. Clean lines and neutral colors throughout make the place feel squeaky clean—or maybe it’s the new Bipolar Air Ionization filters installed during construction.
2020 Platinum Choice Award Winners
By Smart Meetings December 7, 2020 Top of the List The hospitality industry is filled with partners who work creatively with meeting professionals to deliver delight on a silver platter. Smart Meetings readers nominated the hotels, conference centers, CVBs and destination marketing organizations that consistently exceed expectations and help planners deliver on their goals. That list of go-to suppliers is honored with the coveted Platinum Choice Award, the sign of a trusted partner.
Memphis Wants You to Know a Lot’s Been Going On
“We’re changing the front door to Memphis,” was what Kevin Cain, CEO of Memphis Tourism, said before switching on the lights to a renewed Renasant Convention Center. It was during a lighting ceremony in celebration of the $200 million renovation of the Tennessee city’s riverfront convention center. After much feedback from planners, Cain and Dean Dennis, CEO of Renasant Convention Center, decided it was time to make some major changes. That translated into an additional 60,000 sq. ft.
How to Create Concrete Value for Sponsors of Virtual Events
Effective virtual event design starts with the purpose, then considers the needs of attendees, the host organization and finally the limitations of the platform, budget and timeframe. But what about the sponsors? Making their needs a priority may require a little bit of extra thoughtfulness and creativity.
4 Vegan Las Vegas Dining Experiences
By Gary Diedrichs December 1, 2020 November is World Vegan Month. The term “vegan” dates only to 1944, but the concept traces to ancient eastern Mediterranean and Indian practices. As a food philosophy, it was an outlier for decades yet now is practically mainstream. Have your doubts? Then how else to explain the profusion of vegan choices in that bastion of unhealthy excess—Las Vegas.
Smart Buzz: Pandemic Resources Edition
By Smart Meetings November 24, 2020 Meeting professionals need all the help they can get right now. Several industry groups have stepped up to give these essential producers information they need to be effective. Following are pandemic resources you might want to bookmark. CDC Travel Guidelines In October, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clarified its guidance for those traveling on planes, trains, buses, and ride-shares. CDC now “strongly recommends” wearing masks.
4 Zoom Alternatives to Give Virtual Attendees Freedom
What is the most-asked question on all those virtual happy hour calls after “Can you hear me now?” When discussing how a streaming event went, it’s almost always: “What platform did you use?” With so many Zoom alternatives out there, how do you choose? We jumped in, Smartie-style, to examine four of them with a focus on giving attendees what they miss most about IRL events—autonomy and engagement. Hubb Origin story: Hubb founder and CEO Allie Magyar is known as the Event Tech Maven.
Top 5 Thanksgiving Getaways in America Revealed
Vacation News » Great Destinations | By Steve Winston | November 20, 2020 8:05 AM ET Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. For one thing, it ushers in a season of warmth and joy and togetherness for families and friends. For another, it ushers in a day of fantastic food and happy spirits among all.
What the UK didn’t say at the UN Security Council
Just two weeks ago, on Monday 26th October 2020, Ambassador Jonathan Allen, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, delivered his statement at the UN Security Council (UNSC) briefing on the situation in the Middle East. I am a proud British Jew who loves his country.
Using the settlements to whitewash terrorism
Last Thursday, 24th September, the outgoing Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Palestine and MP for Aberavon, Stephen Kinnock, led a debate in the House of Commons on the issue of “annexation” vis a vis Israel.
New and Refreshed Hertiage in the West
By Thérèse Harvey September 28, 2020 JW Marriott Anaheim Resort, California Just opened, this brand-new resort offers 466 guest rooms at Anaheim Garden Walk, adjacent to Disneyland and Anaheim Convention Center. The new concept incorporates Anaheim’s agricultural heritage with interior style in a warm palette of natural woods, glass and leather. A buzzy design calls to mind a beehive, with honeycomb patterning inspiring throughout. The resort has 43,000 sq. ft.
SGN: Seattle, Miami and Germany Welcome Meetings
By Allison Fazio September 24, 2020 We’re bringing you the best industry updates from the week, every week, to keep your spirits up during the pandemic. This week, cities near and far prepare to welcome back attendees in the ballroom and on the trade show floor. Seattle Welcomes Indoor Meetings for Phases 2 and 3 Washington State Convention Center On Sept.
Age of Conversation Speaks to Era of Zoom Fatigue
Just when meeting professionals are growing hoarse from bemoaning that COVID has changed everything, one group came along to show that the fundamentals are still the same. “We were hoping to remind marketers and event producers that conversation and connection is an important part of events, and that includes virtual,” said Liz Lathan, CEO of Haute Dokimazo, producer of the September one-day virtual event The Age of Conversation Summit.
What the U.S. Trade Show Industry Can Learn from Germany
On Sept. 15, Germany deemed travel to international trade shows essential in a momentous, if also controversial, change for the global events industry. Germany is home to one of the largest trade show industries in the world, so there is no doubt that salvaging these events is vital to restoring its economy.
EIC Offers Hope for Displaced Meeting Professionals
By JT Long September 23, 2020 The latest Events Industry Council (EIC) APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force Accepted Practices Guide created a place where those affected by the pandemic slowdown in the meetings and events industry can go for help. The new “book” on Workforce and Wellness covers everything from finding a new job and learning the skills to advance in their current positions to a Dr. Brene Brown segment on comping with grief, fear and anxiety during corona.
Pennsylvania: Meeting in Fresh Breezes
Outdoor gatherings inspire in the Keystone State Walking toward Independence Hall in Philadelphia, you can almost feel the pounding hearts of the Founding Fathers as they gathered there in 1776 to change the course of American history. Today, though, Independence Hall is dwarfed by shiny glass towers, and Philadelphia is now a place where meeting attendees can change the course of corporate history.
Get Smart! There Was Never a Better Time to Up Your Game
Kiersten Walker Kiersten Walker is a believer. She “jumped two levels up.” An experiential event strategist for an association for the past five years, she’s just become associate vice president overseeing events at Women in Cable Telecommunications, in Washington, D.C. In her job interviews, she had to sell her worth directly to the organization’s C-suite—in fact, every single one of her employment interviews was with top brass.
My Top 5 Great Autumn Escapes in America Revealed
Ahhh, finally, it's Autumn! The summer heat is gone, and the constant search for shade is over. The air is fresher, crisper, clearer, and filled with soft autumn breezes and the promise of upcoming holidays and (hopefully!) warm family gatherings to celebrate them again. And the steamy green landscapes of summer are slowly giving way to the glorious colors and softer textures of Autumn. This is a very special time of year in America.
Meet the 2020 Planners of the Year
Planner of the Year: Velvet Graham Velvet Graham, senior director of events, community relations and culture & inclusion, ServiceMaster Resiliency Style: Faith Belief Hope What’s the secret to waking up each morning with a positive mindset in the midst of a global pandemic that cancels months of careful planning faster than you can say force majeure…and a national civil rights protest movement that forces you to reflect on painful incidents you would rather put behind you?
DNC Won the Internet with Virtual Destination Roll Call
By JT Long August 21, 2020 Politics aside, meeting professional viewers watching the virtual Democratic National Convention may, understandably, have experienced flash backs to roaming the aisles of IMEX America during the creatively staged state roll call on Tuesday night. And, they may have learned a thing or two about hybrid meeting production values along the way. More DNC behind the scenes insights from Wisconsin Center District.
All About The Experiences--Featuring Marin Bright
Skip to content By Smart Meetings August 21, 2020 Cheryl Rogers, executive assistant to the CEO and corporate events manager at Solara Medical Supplies, sat down with founder and CEO of Smart Meetings, Marin Bright. Bright talked about how her career in event planning began, what motivates her to do better and the state of the print magazine. Bright also detailed how Smart Meetings’ San Diego event, will look post-COVID, which takes place October 11-13.
Hotels Offer Shelter as California Wildfires Rage
By Thérèse Harvey August 20, 2020 In addition to the global pandemic, the state of California must now contend with the threats of rolling blackouts due to extreme heat and the effects of 23 uncontained wildfires. In Southern California, fires this week blazed through the Mojave National Reserve, burning more than 43,000 acres of habitat to one of the world’s largest collections of iconic Joshua trees.
Looking for Team-Building Experiences? Right this Way…
By Malik Anderson August 19, 2020 Many destinations around the United States and the Caribbean are welcoming back small groups with inventive, adventurous and out-of-the-box team-building experiences that involve being outdoors and allow your group to stay physically distanced. Here’s a sampling of where to get meetings rolling again.
Q&A with Anh Nguyen on Breaking Records during COVID
Anh Nguyen, CMP, principal, Spark Event Management Home base: Calgary, Alberta, Canada Education: Decision information systems degree, University of Alberta Side hustle: Instigator behind #GMIDGoesVirtual movement and Arise Event Collective Advice to younger self: Humility, kindness and authenticity will get you further than any titles. How did your planner career start? When I was at university, I did volunteer work, onboarding first-year business students and introducing them to each other.
Greater Orlando Gets Back to Business
But, as always, big-time fun is nearby With bated breath and fingers crossed, Orlando and nearby Kissimmee have taken the first baby steps across the meetings threshold again. Last month, the region reopened—albeit in carefully measured steps—to the meetings market. Despite new spikes in coronavirus cases in July in parts of Florida, Greater Orlando’s case numbers have remained small, and its welcome mat was still out, as of press time.
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