MANUFACTURING

William Brown

3M Co., Maplewood, announced that Chief Executive Officer William M. “Bill” Brown has been appointed chairman, effective March 1, in addition to his current responsibilities. He succeeds previous CEO Michael Roman, who has announced his intention to retire as executive chairman and as a director. Roman has agreed to continue to serve as executive adviser to the board until  May 1. 3M also announced that David Bozeman, president and CEO of C.H. Robinson Worldwide, has been elected to the board of directors, effective Feb. 6, and that Amy Hood, a 3M director since 2017, does not intend to stand for re-election at 3M’s 2025 annual shareholder meeting.

AIRPORTS

The Metropolitan Airports Commission announced the promotion of Isabella Rhawie to the senior executive team as vice president, commercial revenue officer. Rhawie had been the MAC’s interim vice president of revenue development since July 2024 and previously served as director of concessions and business development. MAC owns and operates Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and six general aviation airports in the Twin Cities region.

FINANCIAL SERVICES

U.S. Bancorp, Minneapolis-based parent company of U.S. Bank, announced that Felicia La Forgia and Sekou Kaalund will become members of its Managing Committee, overseeing the organization’s revenue lines, enabling functions and independent risk teams. La Forgia is head of the company’s Institutional Client Group; Kaalund leads the Branch and Small Business Banking team.

FOOD

Hormel Foods Corp., an Austin, Minn.-based provider of grocery store prepared food brands, announced the upcoming retirement of Mark Ourada, group vice president, Foodservice; David Weber, vice president of Foodservice sales, will succeed Ourada as group vice president, Foodservice.

HEALTH CARE

NMDP, formerly Be The Match, a Minneapolis-based national bone marrow donation registry, announced the hire of Alexander Rosenstein as general counsel and chief compliance officer and a new role for Erica Jensen, senior vice president of strategy and advancement. Rosenstein previously served as an officer at Fredrikson & Byron and was general counsel and corporate secretary at medical device manufacturer Cardiovascular Systems; Jensen will now also assume responsibility for the NMDP Foundation, succeeding Joy King, who recently joined the Animal Humane Society as CEO.

HONORS

Preston Spire, a Minneapolis ad agency, announced that for the second year in a row it has been named to Ad Age’s list of Best Places to Work.

LAW

Fredrikson, Minneapolis, announced that attorney Miriam Solomon has joined as an associate in its Litigation Group. Prior to entering private practice, Solomon was judicial law clerk to the Honorable David T. Schultz in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.

MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

UroMems, a development-stage company working on a smart automated implant to treat stress urinary incontinence, announced that Dan Rose has been appointed chairman of its board of directors. Rose currently serves as the CEO of Endovascular Engineering. UroMems is based in France with U.S. headquarters in Minneapolis.

ORGANIZATIONS

The National Association of Women Business Owners Minnesota chapter has named Stephanie Lee as its president-elect. Lee will assume the role of president in 2026. Lee is managing director at Global Street Partners, a commercial real estate firm based in Minneapolis, which announced the appointment.

POLITICS

The Center of the American Experiment, a Golden Valley-based political policy advocacy group, announced that Vice President and Senior Policy Fellow Peter Nelson has been named by President Donald Trump to lead the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight. Nelson served in the first Trump administration as senior adviser to the administrator at the Centers Medicare & Medicaid Services.

TECHNOLOGY

GrandPad, a Hopkins-based developer of specialized tablets for seniors over the age of 75, announced that Chelsea Bakewell has been named chief customer officer. Bakewell’s previous roles with the company include director of member experience and senior director of customer success. … Inspectorio, a Minneapolis-based provider of supply chain software and services for retail, announced that Elizabeth (Liz) Pulos has joined the company as head of compliance, sustainability, and traceability innovation. Pulos previously was the director of global sustainability at Converse (Nike Inc.).

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EMAIL ITEMS to businessnews@pioneerpress.com.

By Noreen Kompanik, TravelPulse

I admit that prior to the COVID pandemic, I was not a big fan of the all-inclusive resort. And to be honest, the idea of an all-inclusive can be a bit polarizing.

On our vacations with family and friends, traveling to a destination always meant exploring all that the destination had to offer. This included history, culture and, of course, the local cuisine. The idea of having all our meals at one resort wasn’t something we were really interested in, and it didn’t hold much appeal.

At the time, it seemed that only “certain types of travelers” benefited from an all-inclusive.

Then came COVID. When travel began to open up again, I stayed at my first all-inclusive resort in Mexico. If nothing else, safety played a huge factor in opening my eyes to the benefits of an all-inclusive, especially with my background in nursing.

The experience was positive and since that visit, I and my family and friends have chosen to book some of our vacations in an all-inclusive. But “some” is definitely the operative word here.

And it still brings up the question, are all-inclusives worth the cost? The answer is, “It depends.”

Working with a handful of travel agents who book both all-inclusive and non-inclusive travel, we discussed the pros and cons of the all-inclusive and the type of traveler most likely to book this type of vacation.

Here are the benefits of an all-inclusive:

Great fit for families and groups
An overall stress-free vacation in places designed to feel like paradise
Opportunity to relax, unplug and truly enjoy a vacation experience
A staff more fluent in English, making for easier communication
Comprehensive packages that include meals, drinks, alcoholic beverages and activities
Way to break into an unfamiliar destination in a safe, secure way
Cost effective and the ability to stay more “on budget”
Numerous on-site activities for those who love to stay busy ranging from fitness classes to tennis and beach volleyball
May eliminate the need for your own personal transportation

Now, let’s look at the cons:

Not a good fit for the non-alcohol drinker or one that’s only a casual imbiber
The food may be pedestrian, catering more to the North American traveler with options to include pizza, burgers, hot dogs, spaghetti and meatballs. This isn’t a criticism of the menu options, but when you’re in Mexico or the Dominican Republic, do you really want the cuisine you can get anywhere in the U.S.?
Restaurant choices may be limited. Some all-inclusives offer several different dining venues. Others may not. And non-resort dining in the local economy could be considerably less expensive.
Inability to authentically experience local culture and cuisine.
Not a good fit for the adventure traveler who may easily be bored after a few days at the resort
Negative impact on the local community as some all-inclusives have come under fire for low wages, poor working conditions for local staff and not being environmentally conscious.
Hidden charges that include higher prices for premium alcohol or other menu items to include lobster and certain cuts of high-quality meats not included in the program.

So, what should travelers look for in an all-inclusive?

It’s wise to work with a seasoned travel agent who has visited the resort or has in-depth knowledge of the destination. There’s nothing more disappointing than spending money on a vacation that doesn’t meet your expectations.

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“Know before you go” and be sure to read the fine print of a package before you arrive (though ideally before you book).

Travelers should look for a variety of dining options which encompass a range of venues while still embracing the local food culture. Dining is one of the highlights of a vacation and should be satisfying and enjoyable.

Most all-inclusive resorts are in stunning locations known for their weather, culture and picturesque surroundings. While some travelers may want to just chill at their resort, it’s great to research off-property options that may include Mayan ruins, eco-tourism and other unique adventure opportunities should you decide to do some exploring.

Finding the right all-inclusive resort in the right destination with the perfect balance of food, culture and activities that meet your needs and budget makes all the difference on how you’ll view and value your vacation experience.

©2025 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. Visit at travelpulse.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

By Lisa Wells, Food Drink Life

All-inclusive travel has picked up some negative perceptions in past years for being crowded and inauthentic, but 2025 is redefining the all-inclusive experience. If you are looking for wellness, adventure, relaxation and everything in between, learn why the all-inclusive vacation is the ultimate way to travel in 2025.

Travel is on the rise and travelers are looking for the perfect escape. For many, this means relaxing on white sand beaches, indulging in food and drinks, and activities that you don’t have to plan. New trends in all-inclusive travel offer all of this and more. Whether you are a frequent traveler or booking your first trip in a while, an all-inclusive vacation might just be the perfect choice for a stress-free escape this year.

Why all-inclusive travel is trending in 2025

All-inclusive has been a fraught term in travel in recent decades. As LaDell Carter, the founder and lead travel designer of Royal Expression Travels, explains: “Traditionally, ‘all-inclusive’ has been a bit of a cringe-worthy term for me, often associated with subpar food and crowded buffets where half-eaten plates are left behind.”

But all-inclusive travel is gearing up to be more popular than ever in 2025. Hotels.com saw a 60% increase in searches for “all-inclusive” in 2024. Gen Z is particularly enthusiastic about leading this trend, with Expedia reporting that 42% of young adults would choose an all-inclusive vacation as their preferred way to travel.

Much of this comes from changes in the all-inclusive itinerary. Instead of being confined to a resort property with hundreds of tourists, all-inclusive is trending toward luxury. Spa treatments and wellness, authentic local experiences, expertly crafted food and cocktails and, of course, a backdrop of captivating scenery are becoming the standard at many all-inclusive resorts.

While these trips come with a higher price tag, Carter notes, “It’s a redefined version that seamlessly blends luxury, wellness and guiltless indulgence, offering a higher cost-to-value ratio.” Expedia calls this resurgence the “All-Inclusive Era” and notes that Gen Z is leading the way.

Yet this new style of all-inclusive travel offers something for everyone. There are also a variety of destinations in the United States and abroad. From domestic retreats to escapes in the Caribbean and Mexico, these all-inclusive resorts are worth the trip in 2025.

US all-inclusive vacation destinations

Resorts on the Atlantic and Pacific offer stunning getaways without leaving the country – and a range of different experiences.

East Coast all-inclusive resorts

An island is the perfect vacation escape and the East Coast has many to offer. From sun-drenched Florida islands to estates rich with history off the coast of Georgia, you’ll quickly leave behind daily stresses.

Bungalows Key Largo, named a USA Today 10 best all-inclusive resorts in the U.S., is an adults-only retreat in the Florida Keys. Situated in a botanic garden with 1,000 miles of oceanfront, the resort provides fine dining, daily yoga, two pools, cruiser bikes and stand-up paddleboards. Each room is a stand-alone bungalow with a veranda and soaking tub.

Book a room at The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island in Georgia for a retreat that blends nature, history and indulgence. The historic property can accommodate up to 32 guests and is only accessible by boat, ensuring you an exclusive experience. You’ll enjoy an eco-adventure with naturalist-led tours of the 11,000-acre nature preserve, kayaking trips, fishing trips and meals with locally produced ingredients.

All-inclusive resorts in California

California provides a mix of sandy beaches in the south and rugged vistas in the north. Alila Ventana Big Sur provides relaxation and adventure. Located south of San Francisco in Big Sur, the resort looks out on majestic redwood trees on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Relax in the hot tub, hike through the trees, get an astrology reading or take a class to create something new.

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Guests throughout Alila Ventana and other California resorts are pampered throughout their stay with thoughtful touches that elevate their experience. Imagine sipping your favorite cocktail or honey lemonade as you take in breathtaking views from a poolside cabana or private veranda.

All-inclusive Caribbean vacations

The Caribbean attracts visitors with white sand beaches and sparkling waters. Head to Antigua to stay in the Royalton CHIC Antigua for an adults-only vacation featuring elevated food and drink, spa treatments and DJ sessions at the beachside pools. The resort is on Hotels.com’s curated list of new All-Inclusive Era stays.

At Jade Mountain in St. Lucia, named to Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best list 2021-2024, you’ll stay in sanctuaries that meld into the outdoors with an open wall and offer infinity pools with views of the ocean and surrounding rainforests. Scuba diving, yoga and romantic sunset cruises are just a few of the activities offered.

Kamalame Cay has the only overwater spa in the Bahamas. Guests stay in cottages or villas and have the opportunity to go diving, boat fishing, kayaking or simply relax on the beach for an experience that is both laid-back and luxurious.

Whatever you want from your Caribbean vacation, resorts offer a range of experiences. Explore the Bahamas, Aruba, Barbados, Grand Cayman and more to plan your perfect all-inclusive vacation.

Escape to an all-inclusive resort in Mexico

Mexico’s all-inclusive resorts have long been a destination with warm beaches and poolside cabanas. In recent years, resorts have added more amenities for a more sophisticated and adventure-filled stay.

AVA Resort Cancun, an all-new resort, offers 17 bars and restaurants, a waterpark, kids’ clubs, an adults-only pool, a spa and nightlife. When it’s time to relax, every room has a view of the ocean from the private terrace.

In Puerto Vallarta, Hotel Mousai is an adults-only and luxury-focused resort. With two rooftop pools, a selection of cuisines at the property’s restaurants and activities ranging from tequila tasting to jungle hikes, this all-inclusive stay is an indulgent escape.

On Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Grand Velas Riviera Maya has all-inclusive packages for a romantic getaway, a wellness retreat or a family vacation. Each experience has its own pool for personalized ambiance, although all guests can enjoy gourmet dining, activities and spa treatments.

Could all-inclusive travel be perfect for you?

One-of-a-kind experiences, mental wellness, thrilling adventures – all-inclusive travel is becoming the ultimate vacation that goes far beyond simply a trip that is easy to plan. In 2025, luxury resort stays will be a top choice for travelers. For every destination and every experience, find an all-inclusive vacation to elevate your travel this year.

Lisa Wells is a travel, food and lifestyle writer and photographer who has traveled across 37 countries. As the founder of Coastal Wandering, she shares her love for laid-back beach living with stories, recipes and tips for a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

By CHRISTOPHER KIMBALL, Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street

Chicken paprikash is a saucy blend of chicken, onions, sour cream and lots of paprika. In this recipe from our cookbook “ Milk Street 365: The All-Purpose Cookbook for Every Day of the Year,” we blend techniques from restaurant chefs and home cooks who taught us their recipes during our visit to Budapest, Hungary.

In addition to a generous amount of onion, sautéed until sweet and softened to create a flavorful base, there are a couple other keys to achieving fullness and complexity in the iconic dish. Paprika, both sweet and hot, is a defining ingredient. The spice adds a touch of heat, a rusty hue and helps thicken the stew.

This image released by Milk Street shows a recipe for Hungarian chicken paprikash. (Milk Street via AP)

Multiple forms of peppers are essential for depth and range of flavor. Jarred roasted red peppers, blended to a smooth puree, bring a silky sweetness; fresh banana pepper, finely chopped, adds tangy, fruity notes.

The paprika should be bright red, not dull brown, and full of fragrance. Seek out fresh, quality paprika, and in particular look for brands produced in Hungary.

Don’t stir the sour cream into the chicken mixture while still on the heat. Remove the pot from the burner, push the chicken to the sides and whisk the sour cream and the remaining pepper puree into the braising liquid in the center. This gently warms the sour cream so it won’t separate.

Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

This image released by Milk Street shows a recipe for Hungarian chicken paprikash. (Milk Street via AP)

Start to finish: 1 hour 40 minutes (25 minutes active)

Servings: 4 to 6

Ingredients:

½ cup drained jarred roasted red peppers

2 tablespoons lemon juice, divided

4 teaspoons hot paprika, divided

1 teaspoon white sugar

Kosher salt and ground black pepper

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1 large yellow onion, finely chopped

1 ripe medium tomato, cored and chopped

2 banana peppers or wax peppers, 1 stemmed, seeded and finely chopped, 1 stemmed, seeded and thinly sliced, reserved separately

¼ cup sweet paprika

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed

¾ cup sour cream

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Directions:

In a blender, combine the roasted peppers, 1 tablespoon of the lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of the hot paprika, the sugar and ½ teaspoon salt. Puree, scraping the jar as needed, until smooth, about 30 seconds. Set aside.
In a large Dutch oven over medium-high, heat the oil until barely smoking. Stir in the onion, tomato and finely chopped banana pepper. Cover, reduce to medium and cook, stirring often, until the tomato has broken down and the onion is softened and light golden brown, about 10 minutes.
Stir in the sweet paprika, remaining 3 teaspoons hot paprika, broth and half of the pepper puree. Bring to a simmer, then cover, reduce to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes.
Add the chicken and stir until well coated. Bring to a boil over medium-high, then cover, reduce to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until a skewer inserted into the chicken meets no resistance, about 40 minutes.
Off heat, stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Push the chicken to the side; add the remaining pepper puree and the sour cream to the liquid. Whisk to incorporate, then stir to combine the sauce and chicken. Taste and season with salt and black pepper. Serve garnished with the sliced banana pepper.

For more recipes, go to Christopher Kimball’s Milk Street at 177milkstreet.com/ap