The first Midwest Lodging Investors Summit is fast approaching. The event, which will bring together hotel owners, investors, operators, lenders and brand executives from all segments of the industry, will be held July 14-16 at the Sheraton Chicago. Lodging Hospitality and Penton's Financial Services Group are sponsoring the event, while The School of Hospitality Business at Michigan State is the Summit's academic partner.

Here are some highlights:

• The opening general session on Tuesday, July 15 will feature a panel of industry gurus who will examine the state of the hotel industry. Following the session, executives from a diverse group of hotel companies will discuss opportunities and challenges in a Meet the CEOs session.

• On Wednesday, July 16, marketing expert Peter Yesawich will give his always-lively presentation based on his firm's latest consumer research. It will be fascinating, informative and entertaining.

• Also on Wednesday, general sessions will focus on Where's the Money and will allow franchisees to speak out on issues of concerns.

• A lineup of 16 panel discussions will cover a variety of topics — from sourcing debt and equity, to choosing the best franchise flag for your property, to financing a mixed-use development, to successfully planning and executing a hotel renovation project.

For more information and to register for the Summit, go to http://www.MidwestLodgingInvestors.com.