Welcome to our latest newsletter. In this edition, we explore the reopening of New England’s longest rail trail, delve into the allure of the American West, celebrate the impact of three Black-owned hotels empowering their communities, and discuss the newly introduced Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Reintroduction Act of 2024.
What’s Inside:
- New England’s Longest Rail Trail — That Connects 18 Towns Over 93 Miles — Just Reopened
- Captivated by Cowboys: Why People are Captivated By the American West
- Three Black-owned Hotels Empower their Communities
- Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Reintroduction Act of 2024 Introduced in the House of Representatives
New England’s Longest Rail Trail — That Connects 18 Towns Over 93 Miles — Just Reopened
The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, New England’s longest rail trail, has reopened in Vermont, offering 93 miles of accessible paths for walking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail connects 18 towns and is open year-round, supporting activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling. It was designed to connect communities, promote tourism, and offer a historical and natural exploration of Vermont’s landscape. Learn more about it.
Captivated by Cowboys: Why People Everywhere are Captivated By the American West
When Yellowstone first hit the screens, it did more than just showcase the trials and triumphs of the Dutton family—it sparked a wildfire of fascination with the rugged charm of the American West. Dubbed “The Yellowstone Effect,” this phenomenon has carved a deep mark on American culture, influencing everything from retail sales to creating multi-million dollar revenue opportunities for the states of Montana, Wyoming, and Utah. The “Yellow Stone Effect” moves into its phase of evolution as Kevin Costner’s new Horizon film series hits the box office, Beyoncé’s trailblazing #CowboyCarter album sparks conversations on diversity, and The Old Salt Festival becomes the next lifestyle music destination in the U.S. Learn how it’s driving big travel and tourism revenue.
Three Black-owned Hotels Empower their Communities
On most Caribbean islands, tourism drives the local economy. But not everyone has benefitted. Hundreds of years of enslaved labor in the Caribbean, followed by years of Black people being shut out of access to economic opportunities, has kept Black hotel ownership in the region low. Fortunately, things are changing, and Black-owned resorts have become some of the most successful properties in the Caribbean. Here’s how black-owned resorts build the local community and economy.
Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Reintroduction Act of 2024 Introduced in the House of Representatives
The Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Reintroduction Act of 2024, recently introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, marks a significant step forward in wildlife conservation efforts. This groundbreaking legislation aims to establish a comprehensive framework for rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintroducing native wildlife species in the United States. By providing crucial support and resources to wildlife professionals, the Act promises to enhance the capacity of zoos, aquariums, and wildlife centers to respond effectively to animals in distress.
