Travel and tourism are showing positive signs in recent weeks. A closer look at the data reveals The Bend has been rebounding, albeit modestly, when it comes to visitor demand and potential travel.

Countywide hotel occupancy for the week ending July 11 checked in at 48.9 percent, three points higher than the national average for the same period. Youth lacrosse tournaments are helping drive increased occupancy. The Pipe City Lacrosse Festival generated 1,136 room nights from July 10-12. 

Sessions on visitsouthbend.com are up 232 percent from July 1-20 vs. the previous period of the same length. This coincides with the beginning VSBM's summer digital marketing campaign, a sign of positive early returns. 

Our partners at South Bend International Airport recently reported an increase in flights. In July, flights increased 56.2 percent over June. An increase of 42.1 percent is expected in August. 

Consider this tempered optimism as "travel morale remains depressed," per Destination Analysts. The industry research firm reported in its latest survey results that nearly 47 percent of would-be American travelers have no trips planned for the rest of the year.  

It's time for a bittersweet announcement: Sales Manager Patrick Derksen is leaving VSBM to pursue a new opportunity. His last day is July 30.

Patrick has been an integral part of the sales team for over three years, helping secure multiple large conferences and building great relationships with clients across the state. Not only that, his relentlessly upbeat attitude permeated the organization. He's now joining pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly in a sales role covering territory that includes South Bend, Mishawaka and Elkhart. 

Join us in wishing Patrick well on this new endeavor. 

Visit Indiana recently announced the Hoosier Hospitality Promise, a statewide initiative geared toward businesses and consumers alike. Businesses are encouraged to participate by signing up then following the pledge to make health and safety a top priority while following local, state and federal guidelines. 

Customers can also make the promise, which unlocks discounts and deals at many participating establishments.

Woochi Japanese Fusion + Bar, Papa Vino's Italian Kitchen, the Oliver Inn Bed and Breakfast, Inspire Me! and Cinco 5 International are among the local participants to date.