FA L L / W I N T E R 2 0 1 2
I
VOL 14
I
NO 3
contents COVER STORY 16 I Deputy Assistant Secretary Fabiola Rodriguez-Ciampoli of the Department of State will speak on December 3, 2012 at the 17th Annual Conference of the International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals. Her talking points include: • President Obama’s Executive Order on Travel and Tourism • The President’s 100,000 Strong in the Americas goal for international education • Secretary Clinton’s vision for Economic Statecraft 2 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
12
48
41
FEATURES 12 Southwest Meetings Destinations 18 IAHMP 17th Annual Conference & Trade Show 40 Industry Profiles 42 Meetings Destinations 2013 Highlighting top Hispanic meetings destinations for the coming year
10
48 QUINCE Magazine Top tips and ideas from the Quince Magazine cover girls
18
DEPARTMENTS 04 Contributing Editor’s Letter 06 Editor’s Comments/Credits 07 Educational Initiatives 08 Industry Briefs 10 Hispanic Heritage 41 Regional Events www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 3
I
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR'S LETTER
n the last issue we were happy to present President Barack Obama’s National Travel & Tourism Strategy as the cover story and here is why… Travel is one of America’s largest industries. In 2011 travel generated $1.9 trillion in economic output and directly generated $124 billion in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments
Travel is America’s largest services export industry and generated $153 billion in travel exports. Combined with $110 billion in travel imports travel also creates $43 billion in balance of travel trade surplus for the U.S.
Travel is one of America’s largest employers and supports over 14.4 million jobs, that means 1 out of every 8 jobs in the U.S. depends on travel. Travel generated a $195 billion payroll for those directly in the U.S. travel industry
President Obama wants to reestablish the U.S. as the world’s top destination and welcome more visitors to the United States. The President is aware that U.S. share of overseas travelers to the U.S. fell 17% from 2000 to 2010 due to 9/11 and the restrictive visa system that makes travel to the U.S. difficult. Some of the strategy in the President’s plan is to reduce travel hassles.
We need to keep America meeting. When it comes to business productivity, it’s hard to beat a face-to-face meeting, trade show or convention—in fact business travel delivers nearly a $4 to $1 return on investment. Let’s help America’s professionals continue to do business to spur economic expansion.
We need to lower energy costs for Travelers. High fuel prices discourage travel and slow economic growth and when fuel costs go down it makes travel more affordable for everyone. Visit www.USTRAVEL.org and www.BRANDUSA.org for more information on travel.
4 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
A Call to action – Do you know a cultural heritage site at risk? Nominations are now being taken for World Monuments Fund Watch 2014.
Launched in 1996, the Watch calls international attention to cultural heritage around the globe that is at risk from the forces of nature and the impact of social, political, and economic change. The 2014 Watch continues this tradition of identifying places with compelling opportunities for positive change. Deadline for nominations is 1st March 2013. See www.wmf.org.
American Latino Heritage Travel Itinerary Launched by the National Park Service
WASHINGTON – The important role Latino peoples have played in the history and development of the United States is highlighted in the National Park Service’s newest online travel itinerary, American Latino Heritage. From Christopher Columbus’ expeditions to the New World, to the struggle for civil rights spearheaded by Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta, American Latino heritage spans five centuries and is an integral part of the story of the United States. The itinerary, which includes stops at nearly 200 historic sites in 33 states and the District of Columbia, as well as the territories of Puerto Rico and the United States
Virgin Islands, is loaded with information, images, maps, and essays is available at: http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/american_latino_heritage/.
Ken Salazar is the Secretary of the Interior appointed by President Obama. He is originally from Colorado where he served as a United States Senator. He calls himself a Mexican but traces his roots to the early building of the Southwest by the Spanish Explorers and the Mexicans who populated the lands in the 1500’s, 1600’s and 1700’s and is known today as the American Southwest. Saludos,
Margaret Rodríguez de González Contributing Editor
In the Next Issue __________________________________________
SPRING 2013 • Florida Meeting Destinations • New & Renovated Properties • Choosing the Right Convention Center __________________________________________
Want to write for Hispanic Meetings & Travel Magazine? We occasionally accept contributed articles and essays. Contact the managing editor with your pitch.
www.issuu.com/hispanicmeetingstravel
Flip thru current and back issues of Hispanic Meetings & Travel at your computer, smart phone or tablet. (Including all Apple Mobile devices including Iphone & Ipads.*) *ISSUU.com is the web’s most popular destination for publications, a Time.com Top Web Site of the Year winner and works with all browsers & Apple IOS Devices.
Read HISPANIC MEETINGS & TRAVEL on your Android device with the ISSUU MOBILE APP Go to m.issuu.com on your mobile browser to install the free app or search “Issuu Mobile” in the Android Market.
Featuring the groundbreaking EasyRead technology and off-line reading for when you aren’t connected. Launching Soon: Our new online network, “A Resource for the Global Hispanic” | Stay Tuned!
EDITOR’S COMMENT
tion of Hispanic Meetings Professionals. We proudly feature on the cover Fabiola Rodriguez, Deputy Secretary in the U.S. State Department who will discuss diplomacy in the Americas and President Obama’s Executive Order on Travel and Tourism and Secretary Clintons’ vision for “Economic Statecraft” during the IAHMP conference. Here we are at the end of 2012 trying to wrap up final projects, get ready for the holidays and look forward to a new year. As this year leaves us let us not forget the daily struggle that our fellow Americans in the northeast are going through. Please keep them in your prayers. Lately, the mainstream media has had much to say about the Hispanic/Latino influence in America. From politics to the economy to religion we Hispanics have steadily grown to a place of relevance in this country’s landscape. A light has been shined upon us and everyone is taking notice. Now is the time to have our voice resonate across this great land. But before we can come together and cease this opportunity we must arm ourselves with knowledge. Most of us know that we are 50 million strong but do we know in what parts of the country we have the greatest impact? I decided to do a little bit of research and I must admit that I was somewhat surprised with some of the numbers I found. (see figure) I encourage you to research and acquire knowledge on our population so that we can better leverage our numbers for the good of our community. Hispanic Meetings & Travel closes the year with our coverage of the 17th Annual Conference of the International Associa-
6 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
We also present the newly distinguished National Landmarks that are rich in Hispanic history and culture. Looking towards 2013, HM&T has noticed the cities that are beginning to be top picks for upcoming Hispanic meetings and conferences in our Meetings Destinations 2013 feature. In Quince magazine we recap all
PUBLISHER
HispanicMeetingsTravel.com GVR Public Relations Agency, Inc. CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Margaret Gonzalez mgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com EDITOR María de la Luz González mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com DESIGN & PRODUCTION BAY AREA MEDIA SERVICES / SCENE MEDIA CREATIVE DIRECTOR - John Ennis ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR - Betsey Ennis www.bams.us / www.scenelive.net ADVERTISING STEVEN GONZALEZ sgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com MARIA GONZALEZ mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Albuquerque CVB, Albuquerque Convention Center, Brand USA, Choose Chicago, Destination DC, Margaret Gonzalez, Maria Gonzalez, Steven Gonzalez, International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals, Loews Hotels & Resorts, New Orleans CVB, San Antonio CVB, Texas Association of Realtors, U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Department of the State, USC Latino Alumni Association, Visit Phoenix PHOTOGR APHY Ken Abernathy of Nelva Studio, Albuquerque CVB, Arizona Biltmore, Brand USA, Border Action Network, The City of Portland, Choose Chicago, Linda Cullifer, Destination DC, DigPicPhoto, Drakes Bay Historic and Archeological District, International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals, The Hispanic Society of America, Latino Hotel & Restaurant Association, Library of Congress, Loews Hotels & Resorts, Phoenix Convention Center, Dalia Riojas, The Ritz-Carlton Phoenix, Rosa Gloria Ordones, San Antonio CVB, Sangres.com, Shutter Photo, Audio & Video, State of Oregon, Travel Portland, U.S. Department of the State, West Houston Photography, Wikipedia, The Woodlawn Cemetery ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE Gonzalez Global Media
the top ideas and tips that our features have given us in the first 2 years of the magazine’s existence. Personally, I would like to thank our readers and 2012 advertisers for your continued support of Hispanic Meetings & Travel and Quince Magazine. ¡Nos vemos el año que entra! María de la Luz González Editor
2600 South Shore Blvd., Suite 300 League City, Texas 77573 Telephone - 281-245-3330 Fax - 281-668-9199 W E B PA G E www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com WEB MASTER - Margil Villarreal Hispanic Meetings & Travel ISSN #1527-8387 is owned and published by the Gonzalez Global Media, LLC. at 2600 South Shore Harbor Blvd., Suite 300, League City, Texas 77573 C 1999-2012 All Rights Reserved. Hispanic Meetings & Travel cannot by held responsible for unsolicited material. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for any unsolicited material and will return only those accompanied by stamped self-addressed envelope. We reserve the right to edit all copy. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior permission of the publisher. Subscription rates: $30.00 per year within the USA, $52.50 in Canada, and $75.00 elsewhere. All subscriptions must be paid in U.S. currency. Single copies: U.S. $5.00, Canada $8.75, and $12.50 elsewhere. Produced in the USA.
educationalinitiatives
T
USC Latino Alumni Association partners with Dr. Yasmin Davidds to launch the USC LAA Transformational Leadership Initiative he USC Latino Alumni Association
(LAA)
has partnered
with Dr. Yasmin Davidds, Dr. Betty Rengifo Uribe and Jamie Green to
launch the USC Latino Alumni Associa-
tion Transformational Leaders Initiative (TLI), a program designed
to provide Latino Alumni Association student scholars with the tools, knowledge, access to oppor-
tunities and the role models neces-
sary to become successful professionals.
The program has been
developed to help bridge the gap
between university students and
the professional world by provid-
ing LAA scholars with guidance,
motivation and the leadership
skills necessary to be successful in today's work force. Workshops include enhanced career coaching,
key strategies to breaking into and
succeeding in corporate America,
Latina empowerment and negotia-
tion skills, business etiquette and
developing
your
professional
style, internship placement and job
search coaching, and increasing your emotional intelligence among
other critical topics.
munity. Since then, the USC Lati-
Director of the USC Latino Alum-
ed over $14 million in scholar-
uncertain times, where competi-
ing students. For more informa-
Domenika Lynch, Executive
ni Association states "We live in
tion is fierce and return on investment is essential. Dr. Davidds'
negotiation seminars provide our
USC students the tools necessary
to gain self-confidence, make
empowered decisions, and develop a competitive edge in all areas of their lives."
no Alumni Association has awardships to more than 7,000 deservtion visit http://sait.usc.edu/maaa/
Dr. Yasmin Davidds, Psy.D, M.C.C
Dr. Yasmin Davidds is a USC
Alumni, USC LAA scholarship
recipient and member of the first
USC Mexican American Alumni Association Board of Directors.
USC Latino Alumni Association (USC LAA)
author, Latina empowerment and
ciation is a legacy of the USC
launched The Women's Institute of
The USC Latino Alumni Asso-
Mexican American Alumni Asso-
ciation that was founded in 1973
As an international bestselling
negotiation specialist Dr. Davidds
Negotiation which specializes in
leadership and negotiation skill
to develop programs that provide
development for women.
dents attending USC who show a
min Davidds visit www.yasmin-
tuition assistance grants to stu-
commitment to the Latino com-
For
more information about Dr. Yasdavidds.com
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 7
industrybriefs N E W * F R E S H * P R O G R E S S I V E
Loews Hotels & Resorts Announces Coordinated Effort with U.S. Department Of Homeland Security First hospitality brand to offer complimentary enrollment to Global Entry and TSA PreCheck™
L
oews Hotels & Resorts Chairman Jonathan Tisch and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano have announced a joint effort to promote the Trusted Traveler Network which incorporates the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) Global Entry and the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) PreCheck™ programs. Loews Hotels is the first hotel and resort company to work in conjunction with the two offices within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to offer these programs to guests to enhance the travel experience. Loews Hotels is offering YouFirst Platinum loyalty rewards members complimentary enrollment in the Global Entry program via an online process by incurring the cost of the $100 application fee for its most loyal guests. With a Global Entry membership, U.S. citizens are automatically qualified to participate in expedited screening with TSA PreCheck™. "Partnerships are integral to the way we do business as a brand," said Jonathan Tisch. "Our collaboration highlights the importance of the public and private sectors working together to improve hospitality for all our guests, whether that be at our hotels or traveling through an airport." "At DHS, we take seriously our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of passengers coming to and traveling throughout the U.S., while at the same time, helping facilitate lawful travel, trade and tourism," said Secretary Napolitano. "Collaboration with our private sector partners is integral to our mission and I'm pleased to announce our newest collaboration, which brings together a hospitality leader with two DHS programs that provide the traveling public more efficient, expedited travel opportunities – CBP's Global Entry and TSA PreCheck™." Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border 8 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk international travelers upon arrival in the United States. Using an automated kiosk, travelers scan their passports and fingerprints, answer the customs declaration questions using the kiosk's touch screen and proceed with a receipt to the exit with the whole process taking approximately a minute to complete. TSA PreCheck™ is an expedited domestic screening initiative that is expanding to airports across the country. Implementing a key component of the agency's intelligence-driven, risk-based approach to security, TSA PreCheck™ enhances aviation security by placing more focus on pre-screening individuals who volunteer to participate to expedite the travel experience. "As the Loews Hotels portfolio continues to expand, we are dedicated to improving our guests' complete travel experience from airport security checkpoints to hotel check-ins," said Paul Whetsell, CEO & President of Loews Hotels & Resorts. "To be the first hotel brand to offer this service demonstrates that we understand the needs of travelers, especially those who travel frequently for business." About Loews Hotels & Resorts Headquartered in New York City, Loews Hotels & Resorts owns and/or operates 18
hotels and resorts in the U.S. and Canada. Located in major city centers and resort destinations in North America from coast to coast, the Loews portfolio features one-of-a-kind properties that go beyond Four Diamond standards to delight guests with a supremely comfortable, uniquely local and vibrant travel experience. For reservations or more information about Loews Hotels & Resorts, call 1800-23-LOEWS or visit: loewshotels.com. About Global Entry Travelers must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and interview before enrollment. While Global Entry's goal is to speed travelers through the process, members may be selected for further examination when entering the United States. About TSA PreCheck™ TSA is partnering with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as well as U.S. air carriers as part of this initiative. Certain frequent travelers from Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, US Airways and certain members of BP's Trusted Traveler programs, including Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS who are U.S. citizens are eligible to participate.
E
arlier this year, the Texas Association of Realtors and AMPI, Mexico's real estate association, announced that the organizations have signed a cross-border, business-building partnership agreement, which provides for cooperation and collaboration in real estate throughout the region. In addition, 75 such partnerships were established between local Realtor associations and local chapters of AMPI during the recent Texas Realtors Conference in San Antonio. These partnerships highlight the strategic importance of Mexico in the real estate community and represent a commitment by Realtor organizations and AMPI to share information, marketing techniques, educational content and best practices. They also signify a mutual desire to help members understand and benefit from international real estate opportunities. As the official ambassador organization to Mexico, the Texas Association of Realtors worked with AMPI to facilitate creation and signing of the agreements. Joe Stewart, 2012 Chairman of the Texas Association of Realtors, commented, "In recent years, we've seen increasing interest in cross-border real estate opportunities, both Mexicans purchasing property here in the U.S. and Americans purchasing property in Mexico. These partnerships will help Texas Realtors and AMPI members work together to serve those clients. It also further elevates awareness of international real estate, which will lead to more educational opportunities for our members and more
resources for property owners interested in international markets." Participating local Realtor organizations included the following. • Abilene Association of Realtors • Amarillo Association of Realtors • Austin Board of Realtors • Brownsville / South Padre Board of Realtors •Corpus Christi Association of Realtors • Greater El Paso Association of Realtors • Houston Association of Realtors • Lubbock Association of Realtors • Greater McAllen Association of Realtors • MetroTex Association of Realtors (including Dallas / Fort Worth) • Odessa Board of Realtors • San Antonio Board of Realtors • San Marcos Area Board of Realtors
About the Texas Association of REALTORS®
With more than 80,000 members, the Texas Association of REALTORS® is a professional membership organization that represents all aspects of real estate in Texas. We
advocate on behalf of Texas REALTORS® and private-property owners to keep homeownership affordable, protect private-property rights, and promote public policies that benefit homeowners. Visit TexasRealEstate.com to learn more.
About La Asociación Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios (AMPI)
AMPI is a private, non-governmental real estate organization with a mission to bring together individuals who render professional real estate services in Mexico under its Bylaws and Code of Ethics for training, sharing best practices and protecting the rights of private property owners.
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 9
industrybriefs
Texas Realtors sign historic partnership agreements with Mexican real estate association at San Antonio conference
HISPANIC HERITAGE
HISPANIC HERITAGE
Secretary of the Interior Designates 27 New National Landmarks
Landmarks Honor Nation’s Cultural and Natural Heritage
T
his past October the Secre-
tary of the Interior Ken
Salazar announced the des-
ignation of 26 national his-
toric landmarks and one national natu-
CESAR E. CHAVEZ’ GRAVE SITE & MEMORIAL GARDEN
ral landmark as places that possess
exceptional value and quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of
the United States. Currently there are
successes for hundreds of thousands of
Gravesite is the only known, NHL-eli-
gible property directly associated with
only 2,527 designated national historic
Farragut, the son of Jorge Antonio Far-
landmark sites across the country that
island of Minorca. Admiral Farragut is
landmarks and 592 national natural bear this national distinction.
“Each of these landmarks represents a
thread in the great tapestry that tells the
story of our beautiful land, our diverse culture and our nation’s rich heritage,”
ragut-Mesquida, a Spaniard from the
farm workers, including passage of the
first U.S. law that recognized farm
workers’ collective bargaining rights.
On October 8, 2012, President Obama
declared the site a national monument.
universally recognized as one of the
In addition to that action, the Secretary
can naval history, as well as one of the
nated a national historic landmark.
most accomplished officers in Ameri-
finest naval commanders who fought for either side during the Civil War.
announced the site has also been desig-
• The Drakes Bay Historic and
Archeological District, Point Reyes
said Salazar. “By designating these
Station, California. The site is directly
meet the goals of President Obama’s
cross-cultural encounter between Cali-
establish a conservation ethic for the
the most complete material record on
associated with the earliest documented
sites as national landmarks, we help
fornia Indians and Europeans, leaving
America’s Great Outdoors Initiative to
the West Coast. In addition, the site
21st century and reconnect people,
contains the earliest recorded ship-
especially young people, to our nation’s
historic, cultural, and natural heritage.” The
national
historic
landmarks
announced include those that embody
the Hispanic heritage and culture:
• Admiral David Glasgow Farragut
Gravesite, New York City, New York.
The Admiral David Glasgow Farragut 10 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
ADMIRAL DAVID GLASGOW FARRAGUT GRAVESITE
• César E. Chávez National Monument at Nuestra Señora Reina de la
Paz in Keene, California. La Paz
became headquarters to the United Farm Workers of America in the early
1970s when Chávez and other leaders
of the UFW orchestrated unprecedented
DRAKES BAY HISTORIC AND ARCHEOLOGICAL DISTRICT
San José de los Jémez Mission and
• The Hispanic Society of America
the spread of Spanish control north-
States, the Spanish San Agustín.
Gíusewa Pueblo Site is associated with
five Latino families whose children
were denied admission to public schools in Southern California. The
decision by this federal court forbade
segregation on the grounds that sepa-
rate was not equal; it was the first court
to declare that the doctrine of “separate but equal” ran counter to the United States Constitution.
The National Historic Landmarks Pro-
gram, established in 1935, is adminis-
tered by the National Park Service on THE HISPANIC SOCIETY OF AMERICA COMPLEX
ward in New Spain into the present-
Complex, New York City, New York.
day American Southwest from 1598 to
Society of America in 1904, Archer
tion of the intersection of European
With the founding of the Hispanic Milton Huntington created an institu-
tion which directly encouraged the promotion of all cultures associated with
the Iberian Peninsula (including those
and native cultures.
National Park System Advisory Board,
• The United States Post Office and
Court House (the
tudes toward Hispanic culture and
trict of California),
Los Angeles, Cali-
panic Society of America was at the
1945 and 1946, the
negative perceptions of Hispanic history and societies in the New World.
• San José de los Jémez Mission and
Gíusewa Pueblo Site, New Mexico.
fornia.
designation to the Secretary of the Inte-
U.S. District Court
for the Southern District
of
California
became an exceptionally important site in
the annals of postwar American school desegregation
efforts
tory of Mexican and
(CENTRAL DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA)
rior. If selected, property ownership
remains intact but each site receives a
designation letter, a plaque, and techni-
cal preservation advice.
west. This was the site
Additional information on all 27 desig-
of the 1946 Mendez v. Westminster JÉMEZ MISSION AND GÍUSEWA PUEBLO SITE, NEW MEXICO
UNITED STATES POST OFFICE AND COURT HOUSE
Mexican-American
people in the South-
DE LOS
which makes recommendations for
Between
and the civil rights his-
SAN JOSÉ
applications are reviewed by the
for the Central Dis-
understanding of Hispanic-American
forefront of challenging simplistic and
officials and other partners interested
in nominating a landmark. Completed
U.S. District Court
history in the United States. The His-
The agency works with preservation
about 1639 and is an early representa-
in South America). This represented a
nationally significant shift in both atti-
behalf of the Secretary of the Interior.
School
District lawsuit filed by
nations
can
be
http://www.nps.gov/nhl.
found
at
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 11
HISPANIC HERITAGE
wreck on the West Coast of the United
SOUTHWEST MEETING DESTINATIONS
PHOENIX: The perfect Oasis for your next meeting Greater Phoenix has positioned itself as a top meeting destination in the Southwest. The city encompasses 2,000 square miles and more than 20 incorporated cities. Greater Phoenix is the sixth-largest city in the United States with a population of 1.4 million. The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport serves more than twenty carriers and includes hubs for US Airways and Southwest Airlines. Phoenix’s combination of Hotel and Resorts, outstanding Convention Center facilities, Outdoor Activities, Popular Attractions, fantastic foods, and wide variety of spectator sports, propel the city to new heights.
Hotel and Resorts: Greater Phoenix is home to nearly 500 hotels and with more than 60,000 guest rooms. That total includes more than forty luxury resorts. Notable resorts in Greater Phoenix include the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa, the Arizona Biltmore (pictured here), Westin Kierland Resort a Spa, The Phoenician, Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa, Montelucia Resort & Spa, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, the Wigwam Golf Resort and Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.
Convention Center: Five years and $600 Million in the making, the newly expanded Phoenix Convention Center is an Architectural masterpiece in the heart of downtown.
Inspired by colors and textures of the Grand Canyon, the convention center’s three building campus boasts nearly 900,000 square feet of exhibition and meeting space, three ballrooms with cutting-edge audio and video technology, $3.2 million worth of public art and ecologically friendly features like solar paneling and a water-harvesting garden.
Cuisine: With a spectrum of cuisine that ranges from signature Southwestern dishes to exotic international fare – plus 12 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
weather that’s perfect for patio dining under the desert sky – Greater Phoenix has all the ingredients to leave diners feeling a warm, dinner glow. Aside from the region’s expected mastery of Southwestern cuisine, diners in Greater Phoenix enjoy a wealth of traditional steakhouses and American Fare, as well as international cuisine from Asia, Europe, Japan and Mexico.
Outdoor Activities: Dependable sunshine and warm temperatures make outdoor activities a way of life in Phoenix. Golf, tennis, hiking, cycling, mountain biking and rock climbing are popular Phoenix activities. Horseback riding is a great way to see the Sonoran Desert, as is a rugged Jeep or Hummer ride. Thrill seekers can soar above the desert plateau in a glider, sailplane or hot-air balloon, or satisfy their need for speed at the Bondurant School of High Performance Driving. Visitors also can choose from water skiing, sailing, fishing, and tubing in the region’s lakes and rivers.
Attractions: Greater Phoenix’s top attractions are South Mountain Park and Preserve, Tempe Town Lake, Camelback Mountain and First Friday Art Walks in downtown Phoenix. Other noteworthy attractions include the heard Museum, Desert Botanical Garden, Heritage and Science Park, the Musical Museum, and Phoenix Zoo. Phoenix, of course, is also the gateway to the Grand Canyon; the drive to the America’s greatest natural wonder takes three and half hours.
Sports: Greater Phoenix annually plays host to the PGA Tour’s Waste Management Phoenix Open (at the TPC of Scottsdale), NASCAR’s February and November events (at Phoenix International Raceway), P.F. Chang’s Rock “n” Roll Marathon, and college football’s Fiesta Bowl and Insight Bowl. Phoenix is one of thirteen U.S. Cities with franchises in all four major professional sports leagues: Phoenix Suns (NBA), Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), Arizona Cardinals (NFL) and Phoenix Coyotes (NHL).
For more information on planning your next meeting or event in Phoenix contact Visit Phoenix at (877) CALLPHX or visit http://www.visitphoenix.com
SOUTHWEST MEETING DESTINATIONS
$20 Million renovation coming for Albuquerque Convention Center
In addition to recent renovations of the lower level west meeting rooms at the Albuquerque Convention Center, the complex is about to get a $20 million facelift. The West Complex of the Albuquerque Convention Center will soon have a new look that better represents the unique architectural elements of our region. The preliminary designs include: • a new exterior façade • complete remodeling of the ballroom • a new entertainment deck in the ballroom • massive windows with panoramic views • the west building lower level atrium will be completely remodeled to include a fireplace • lower level food court/café The project will be phased to allow for ongoing convention and meeting business. Construction is slated to start by mid-2013 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2014. In addition to the $20 million being invested in the Albuquerque Convention Center, the city offers more than $300 million in recent hospitality investments and planned developments including hotels, off-site venues and area attractions.
Albuquerque Convention Center Statistics:
• It is the largest convention facility in the State of New Mexico • The ACC is in short-walking distance of 900 hotel rooms and the city's dining and entertainment heartbeat • Features 167,000 square feet of exhibit space with 14 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
106,000 square feet of contiguous, column-free space • The 2,300-seat Kiva Auditorium, is the perfect space for a keynote speaker • Has an amazing 31,000-square feet Ballroom that lends itself to a magnificent banquet space for up to 2,000 people or an impressive general session area for 2,500 people For more information on the Albuquerque Convention Center visit www.albuquerquecc.com or the Albuquerque CVB at www.itsatrip.org.
COVER STORY
“…our problems have never respected dividing lines between global economics and international diplomacy. And neither can our solutions. That is why I have put what I call economic statecraft at the heart of our foreign policy agenda.”
T
– Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton
he world’s economic system has evolved. So must America’s foreign policy. Emerging nations increasingly deal in economic power as their primary means of measuring and exercising influence. At the same time, America’s global leadership is linked to the vitality of its domestic economy. Simply put, America’s economic strength and its global leadership are a package deal. A strong economy always has been a pillar of American power, and we must position ourselves to lead in a world where security is shaped in boardrooms and on trading floors, as well as on battlefields.
The Secretary's Vision
Secretary Clinton is placing economics and market forces at the center of U.S. foreign policy. Economic Statecraft means both harnessing global economic forces to advance America’s foreign policy and employing the tools of foreign policy to shore up our economic strength. We have backed this vision with an ambitious agenda, covering four broad elements:
Updating Our Priorities
For the last decade, our foreign policy has, by necessity, focused on the places where we faced the greatest dangers. Responding to threats will always be central to our foreign policy, but it cannot be our only foreign policy. In the decade ahead, we need to focus just as intensely on the places where we have the greatest opportunities, including: • Pivoting to Asia through efforts such as the Trans- Pacific Partnership, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, and the U.S. – Korea Free Trade Agreement. • Deepening Integration in Latin America through existing and new partnerships beginning with the 2012 Summit of the Americas; and harmonizing regulatory barriers to trade with Canada and Mexico. • Cooperating with Europe to advance our shared interests in third-country markets, and to boost jobs and competitiveness within the Trans-Atlantic market.
Playing Better Offense: Our Trade, Investment, and Commercial Diplomacy Agenda
Future U.S. competitiveness depends on our ability to curb the growing host of market distortions that too often skew the playing field against U.S. firms—including unfair subsidies and regulatory regimes, lax labor and environmental standards, and submarket export financing. • Jobs Diplomacy. State is launching a comprehensive trade and commercial diplomacy agenda that aggressively promotes 16 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
America’s economic renewal. • Elevating Inward Investment. We are partnering with Commerce to launch SelectUSA. Secretary Clinton has instructed embassies to tackle investment barriers globally—for example, pushing back against unfair joint venture and tech transfer requirements. Our Missions work with a broad range of local partners across the globe to help attract investment to the United States. • Competitive Neutrality. We are working to identify unfair practices around state-owned enterprises and to create a level playing field for U.S. firms.
Using Economic Tools to Solve Foreign Policy Challenges
Many of America's national security objectives hinge on key economic dimensions, and economics must play a central role in our policy responses. The Department is better harnessing market forces to advance U.S. political and security interests. For example: • Creating a MENA Trade and Investment Partnership and efforts encouraging entrepreneurship to lay the economic foundations for democracy across the Middle East and North Africa. • Launching a New Silk Road initiative to promote regional stability, connectivity, and economic growth by building economic links between Afghanistan and its neighbors.
Building the Capacity of the Department of State
We are expanding our capacity to advance this agenda by ensuring that our diplomats have the knowledge, skills and resources to execute it. Actions include: • Establishing a new Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment; a new Bureau of Energy Resources; and the Department’s first-ever Office of the Chief Economist • Launching a comprehensive review of hiring, promotion, and training to ensure that our officers have the requisite economic tools.
D
eputy Assistant Secretary Fabiola Rodriguez-Ciampoli of the Department of State will speak at the 17th Annual Conference of the International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals. The Deputy Assistant Secretary will speak about President Obama’s Executive Order on Travel and Tourism, the President’s 100,000 Strong in the Americas goal for international education and Secretary Clinton’s vision for Economic Statecraft.
Fabiola Rodriguez-Ciampoli, Deputy Assistant Secretary Western Hemisphere - U.S. Department of State
Fabiola Rodriguez-Ciampoli became Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Diplomacy in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs at the Department of State on September 30, 2010. Fabiola Rodríguez-Ciampoli was appointed senior advisor in the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs on January 4, 2010. RodriguezCiampoli previously served as communications director for the office of the Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus Rep. Xavier Becerra, in the U.S. House of Representatives. She also led an aggressive media effort to reach out to Hispanic voters as Director of Hispanic Communications for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign in 2007-2008 and for John Kerry’s presidential cam-
paign in 2004. Her past positions include Director of Hispanic Media for the Senate Democratic Communications Center and Director of Specialty Media for the Democratic National Committee. RodriguezCiampoli has more than 15 years of experience in communications, public affairs and public relations in the United States and Mexico. Rodriguez-Ciampoli earned a Masters of Arts in Public Communication at American University sponsored by a Fulbright Scholarship and a BA in Communications from Universidad Iberoamericana, in Mexico City.
“…the United States will work with partners in this region, including the private sector, to increase the number of U.S. students studying in Latin America to 100,000, and the number of Latin American students studying in the United States to 100,000.”
— President Barack Obama, La Moneda, Santiago, Chile, March 21, 2011
In March 2011, President Barack Obama launched “100,000 Strong in the Americas,” an initiative to increase international study in Latin America and the Caribbean. The purpose of 100,000 Strong is to foster region-wide prosperity through greater international exchange of students, who are our future leaders and innovators. Increasing understanding in the Western Hemisphere and building closer people-to-people ties will help the State Department work together with the people of the Western Hemisphere to address common challenges including citizen security, economic opportunity, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.
Partnerships: The Department of State is working to implement 100,000 Strong in the Americas through partnerships – with foreign governments, with universities and colleges, and with the private sector. EducationUSA, (educationusa.state.gov) a network of more than 100 U.S.-Government-supported advising centers throughout the Hemisphere, is a centerpiece of our partnership and outreach efforts. Universities and Colleges: We are working with institutions in the United States and throughout the Hemisphere to encourage expanded exchanges and closer partnerships between U.S. and Latin American and Caribbean universities and colleges. Private Sector: The U.S. government, in partnership with govern-
ments in the region, strongly supports exchanges through Fulbright, Gilman, and other scholarship programs. Reaching beyond these programs, we seek contributions from the private sector to support scholarships. Any such funding will go directly to the organization administering the program the donor wishes to support.
Foreign Governments: Most governments in the region provide scholarships to enable top students to study abroad. Brazil’s “Science without Borders” scholarship program plans to send 75,000 Brazilians to study abroad over the next four years, with up to half coming to the United States. The United States has worked closely with Brazil to coordinate the U.S. portion of this program. We seek opportunities to cooperate with other governments on student advising, assistance with placement, and coordination to ensure timely access to educational and visa services. Diversity: We are promoting a more diverse profile of students who participate in educational exchanges and their destinations. The Department of State is reaching out to diverse institutions throughout the United States including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-serving institutions, Native American Tribal colleges, and community colleges. We are working with Latin American and Caribbean governments, universities, and the private sector to provide international study opportunities for students from disadvantaged backgrounds or historically underserved populations. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 17
International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals Celebrates its 17th Annual Conference
T
he International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals (IAHMP) was organized at a meeting held at the Fontainebleau Hilton Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida hosted by Leo Solomon, General Manger in August 1994. A year later the International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals was incorporated in the state of Texas on May 1, 1995. IAHMP is an international association that promotes the uniqueness of Hispanic cultures, professionalism and continuing education. IAHMP was established to demonstrate the economic impact of the growing Hispanic meetings market, as well as to introduce meeting planning, hospitality and travel industry careers to Hispanics. IAHMP is reaching out to national non profit Hispanic organizations, business owners, travel agents, and industry professionals nationwide as the educational resource for improving the overall quality of Hispanic meetings, conventions and special events by implementing an educational program to improve professionalism in the meetings industry through the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional. This curriculum is the first industry designation of its kind. IAHMP will also conduct research on the meetings and hospitality industry and report on issues and concerns to the Hispanic community. Dedicated to increasing the economic vitality of Hispanic organizations, business owners, and industry professionals, IAHMP seeks to advocate for fair practices within the hospitality industry by promoting educational programs that will improve professionalism in the meeting, convention and special events market and prompt a networking environment that will enhance global business to business practices through research and educational development implemented by IAHMP. The association promotes the common interests shared by Hispanics through their culture and assists in creating a community for celebrating the common interests of Hispanic meeting professionals. IAHMP's First Annual Conference was held on August 18-20, 1996 at the Fontainebleau Hilton Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida with the support of Hilton Hotels and American Airlines. Since that time, the conference has been held in San Antonio, Texas; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Cancun, Mexico; Orlando, Florida; Hartford, Connecticut; Phoenix, Arizona; Washington, DC; Las Vegas, Nevada (twice); Atlanta, Georgia; San Diego, California; Denver, Colorado; Albuquerque, New Mexico (thrice). This year’s conference is the first time we visit the
Pacific Northwest and we trust all the participants will enjoy their visit to Portland, Oregon. We have planned a great educational program with some of the top speakers in the country who will lead the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) program. And, we have an opportunity to hear from the leaders of some of the Nation’s leading Latino Associations who will share information on their annual conference and events. The program will also feature Keynote Speaker, Ira Koretsky, The Chief Storyteller® to teach us ”Making your communications unforgettable" and we will hear from Fabiola Rodriguez, Deputy Secretary in the U.S. State Department who will discuss diplomacy in the Americas and President Obama’s Executive Order on Travel and Tourism and Secretary Clintons’ vision for “Economic Statecraft”. Corporate speakers will discuss New Technology for the Special Events Industry and Technology and the Future of Meetings. The Media Panel will teach us how to work with the media to promote your meetings and events. And “Understanding the Cultural Differences of Your Attendees: Strategies to Promote Inclusiveness at Your Annual Meeting” is sure to encourage lots of discussion. We will present a tribute in recognition of the life of Dr. Andrea Sigler who served on the IAHMP Board for many years. December 2nd is her Birthday and we choose to recognize the work she did to promote understanding of cultural diversity through world travel. We trust you will enjoy the conference and spend every minute getting to know all the participants. We thank Travel Portland and Mike Smith for being our Host and Sponsor this year and Roy Jay who introduced us to Portland several years ago. We are happy we came and we trust you will also be glad to be in Portland, Oregon. Enjoy yourself and may all your memories of IAHMP 2012 be wonderful!
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 19
State of Oregon Office of the Governor
A WELCOME MESSAGE FROM GOVERNOR JOHN A. KITZHABER MD Dear Ms. Gonzalez:
As Governor of the great State of Oregon, I am pleased to welcome you and your associates to Portland for the 2012 IAHMP annual conference and trade show. We're proud of Portland's excellent convention and meeting facilities, and you will find our citizens to be warm and welcoming. We are confident that the International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals will enjoy a successful event here. Portland – Oregon’s largest city – offers amenities to suit every interest. The "City of Roses" has its own symphony orchestra, ballet and opera companies, live theater, professional basketball and soccer, shopping, museums, and art galleries. The city is noted for its architecture and historical sites, engaging and walkable neighborhoods, and worldrenowned restaurants and chefs making the most of the region’s agricultural bounty.
Oregon's rich and diverse natural beauty is known throughout the nation, and Portland’s system of green spaces range from old-growth forests to formal gardens and spectacular vistas. Portland is surrounded by breathtaking countryside that leads to Mount Hood, home of world-class skiing and the picturesque Timberline Lodge, and the magnificent Columbia River Gorge. Both are just an hour away, while the stunning beauty of the Oregon coast will unfold at your feet after only a 90 minute drive.
Oregon is noted for its outstanding hospitality and I am certain you and your attendees will enjoy Portland as the site for your 2012 annual conference. Should you have any questions, my staff is eager to be of assistance. Sincerely,
John A. Kitzhaber, M.D. Governor 20 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
City of Portland, Oregon Office of the Mayor
A WELCOME MESSAGE FROM MAYOR SAM ADAMS Dear Ms. Gonzalez:
Thank you for selecting Portland, Oregon, for the 2012 International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals annual conference and trade show. I know that IAHMP had many excellent destinations from which to choose, and we are very pleased to have you and your convention attendees with us.
Portland's attributes have garnered a lot of positive attention recently. Budget Travel deemed the city one of the "Top Budget Travel Destinations for 2010." Beating out international competition, Portland made Travel + Leisure's 2009 list of the World's Top 10 Biking Cities. And our cultural side was acknowledged by AmericanStyle magazine, which listed Portland as one of its "Top 25 Arts Destinations in America" in 2009.
I can assure you that these are not empty platitudes. Portland has worked hard to nurture the arts, to encourage eco-friendly practices and ideas, to encourage innovative public transit, to support the chefs and winemakers of our region, and to protect and preserve the city's surrounding natural beauty.
You will find Portland to be a very friendly and welcoming city, and I know your International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals attendees will enjoy their visit, and wish to return in the near future. With warm regards, Sam Adams Mayor
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 21
A WELCOME MESSAGE FROM JEFF MILLER, PRESIDENT & CEO Dear Ms. Gonzalez:
Welcome! We are very excited that you have selected Portland, Oregon, for the 2012 International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals annual conference and trade show. We appreciate your faith in our community and we look forward to welcoming you and your IAHMP attendees to a truly outstanding Northwest experience. Portland prides itself on having something to offer everyone – outstanding hotels and meeting facilities, great restaurants, wonderful shopping opportunities (no sales tax), a thriving arts community, internationally acclaimed wines and microbrews, intriguing history, and simply incredible scenic wonder. Portland has worked hard to encourage eco-friendly practices and ideas, to encourage innovative public transit, to support the chefs and winemakers of our region, and to protect and preserve the city's surrounding natural beauty. All that being said, however, what is most distinguishable about Portland is the professional and hospitable people that you will meet. We love to share our beautiful city with visitors – I promise you will have a great time in Portland! Best wishes for a most successful conference. Please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance to you.
Best regards,
Jeff Miller President & CEO 22 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Dear Conference Participants, Welcome to this year’s conference! The International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals is very happy to present the 17th Annual Education Conference & Trade Show EXPO in the beautiful city of Portland, Oregon. We thank you very much for your participation and for sharing your precious time to support this event. We trust you will be pleased with the program we have planned for you. As we come together, Hispanics across the country continue to impact every facet of American life in the United States. According to the Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, the Hispanic consumer market in the U.S. is larger than the entire economies of all but 13 countries in the world. The rise of purchasing power at over 1 Trillion has generated a demand to learn why these gains are taking place as well as how to A GLOBALLY DIVERSE ASSOCIATION tailor products, advertising and media to each market segment of the Hispanic Market. In the hospitality industry this information is very important as it will spur growth among the Hispanic associations that plan thousands of meetings and events each year. Where they take their business becomes key and at this year’s conference you will hear from experts who represent the Hispanic market. At the same time Brand USA was established by the Travel Promotion Act in 2010 to spearhead the nation's first global marketing effort to promote the United States as a premier travel destination. Originally formed as the Corporation for Travel Promotion, the public-private entity does business as Brand USA. Brand USA is governed by an 11-member Board of Directors appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce. No taxpayer dollars are used to fund Brand USA, at least half of the program's budget will be funded by investment from the private sector. The remainder will come from the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which assesses a small $14 fee on visitors traveling to the United States from countries that do not require a visa. Brand USA's annual budget is projected to be up to $200 million. Through its call-to-action—DiscoverAmerica.com—Brand USA inspires travelers to explore the United States of America’s boundless possibilities. At this year’s conference you will hear about President Obama’s Executive Order on Travel and Tourism, the President’s 100,000 Strong in the Americas goal for international education, and Secretary Clinton’s vision for Economic Statecraft. Other topics will include The Future of Meetings and “Making your communications unforgettable." Hispanic Associations will discuss the inside Track to secure their Business; New Technology for the Special Events Industry; And Strategies to Promote Inclusiveness at Your Annual Meeting. We will all pause to remember our Board member Dr. Andrea Sigler who shared her boundless knowledge on international travel and meetings with those lucky to have known her and traveled with her. December 2nd was her birthday and we will recognize her with a special tribute presented by Lida Peterson and her sisters who lost their mother 5 years ago. Get ready to learn and treasure the time we have together! Margaret Gonzalez, IAHMP www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 23
Conference Agenda Sunday, December 2, 2012 8:30 AM Conference Registration Opens Red Lion Hotel on The River – Portland, Oregon Continental Breakfast Early Arrivals
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) Program Introduction by: Margaret Gonzalez Founder/President, IAHMP and the CDMP Program Presenter Angela Gonzalez-Rowe President, Latino Hotel & Restaurant Association
Margaret Gonzalez
Angela Gonzalez-Rowe
The CDMP has been awarded to professionals in the USA, Portugal, Spain, Croatia and the UK. The CDMP training will be offered at the conference this year by the following professional speakers/trainers: Carole Copeland Thomas As a speaker, trainer, global thought leader, and business owner since 1987, Carole Copeland Thomas moderates the discussions of key issues affecting our global marketplace. She has her pulse on the issues affecting working professionals and consults with industry leaders on a regular basis. From speaking at the Federal Highway Administration, SHRM, Hewlett Packard, Verizon, Cargill, and Monster.com to interviewing experts around the globe, Carole knows how to analyze the dynamics of a changing marketplace. Carole graduated with honors in 1975 from Emory University. She entered graduate school in 1983 (on a Martin Luther King, Jr. academic fellowship), and received her MBA degree from Northeastern University in Boston. Carole is the Tri State Coordinator for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the Chair of the Multicultural Committee for the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau. See: www.tellcarole.com Carlos Conejo is President of Peak Performance Seminars, Training & Consulting. A Thousand Oaks-based leadership and process improvement consulting firm. Conejo is the author of “Motivating Hispanic Employees: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Motivating Hispanic Employees” written for the non-Hispanic leader or manager in order to help with better understanding of the fine nuances of the Hispanic culture, approach to teamwork and other workplace issues. His second book, “Recruiting and Retaining Multicultural Employees” is geared toward assisting Human Resources professionals more effectively deal with the exploding populations in America. He is currently serving as President of the Pepperdine University Ventura County Alumni Association. Julia Wai-Yin So, Ph.D - A Speaker of Diversity on Diversity Julia So, Ph.D is a retired college professor and administrator, Dr. Julia Wai-Yin So is the Principal of So García Associates, LLC. She has been speaking on diversity & inclusiveness, leadership & change, and Asian & Latino cultures since 1995. With decades of international experience working with people from culturally diverse backgrounds while living in Hong Kong, Japan and Ecuador, she is an expert on UNRAVELling the Three Cs to debunk certain cultural communication codes that one uses or presenting the Asian/Latino Parallels about the similarities of the two fastest growing racial/ethnic minority groups in the US. Dr. So received her B.A. 24 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Conference Agenda (Sunday, December 2, 2012: Continued) and M.A. in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington, and Ph.D. in Public Policy and Political Economy from the University of Texas at Dallas.
12:00 - 1:00 PM BOARD OF DIRECTORS - Welcome Luncheon Meet and Greet the International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals (IAHMP), Connected International Meeting Professionals Association (CIMPA), Latino Hotel & Restaurant Association (LHRA), The Oregon Convention and Visitor Services Network (OCN) and Travel Portland.
1:00 - 4:00 PM CDMP Program continues 4:30 PM Conference and New Member Orientation 7:00 PM Welcome Reception – JB’s Night Club and Lounge The host for this evening is The Red Lion Hotel on the River and Travel Portland SPECIAL CELEBRATION OF DR. ANDREA SIGLER’S LIFE Dr. Andrea Sigler was the founder of Connected International Meeting Professionals Association (CIMPA). She was one of the first to recognize the potential of the internet and associated advances in information technology, she became a vocal proponent of using technology to modernize and render more efficient (and profitable) meeting planning process. She formed CIMPA as a forum to disseminate that philosophy and teach the requisite implementing skills. She served on panels and lectured at conferences and seminars throughout Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa and United States. She served on the Board of Directors of the International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals. Andrea Sigler always had boundless energy and a zest for enjoying life. Birthdays were always special to her and were always celebrated in style. Today, December 2nd is her birthday, so please join us in celebrating her birthday. Although she is no longer with us she is here in spirit as she participated in the IAHMP Annual Conference for many years.
Monday, December 3, 2012 7:30 - 8:30 AM
Exhibitors Setup for Trade Show EXPO Red Lion Hotel on The River • JB’s Night Club and Lounge
8:00 AM –2:00 PM Conference Registration in the main lobby of the Red Lion Hotel on The River 909 N Hayden Island Drive, Portland, Oregon 97217
8:30 AM
Continental Breakfast – JB’s Lounge Portland Color Guard Showing of the Colors National Anthem Trade Show EXPO Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
9:30 AM
WELCOME - BIENVENIDO! Welcome: IAHMP, President, Margaret Gonzalez Welcome: CIMPA, President, Lida Peterson Welcome: Travel Portland, Vice Pre. National Sales, Mike Smith, CDMP Welcome: Oregon Convention & Visitor Network, Founder, Roy Jay Welcome: Andrea Cano, Chair, Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs Welcome: Gale Castillo, President, Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 25
Conference Agenda (Monday, December 3, 2012: Continued)
Meetings Industry Update: Terry Singleton, President/Owner, CCP Events & Past President of ISES Destination Management Update: Dzidra Junior, Director Global Sales, MGM Resorts International
Introduction of IAHMP/CIMPA LEADERS
Margaret Gonzalez
Lida Peterson Presi-
Catherine Gonzales
IAHMP International President and Founder,
dent - Connected International Meeting Professionals Association (CIMPA)
IAHMP President, Southwest Region, Founder New Mexico State Chapter
Linda Pereira
Diego Fernandez de Cordoba
Dr. Josie L. Olympia,
South America Chapter & Panama CVB
MD, DLFAPA CIMPA Advisory Board
Angela Gonzalez Rowe President,
tionMaria de la Luz
Clara Padilla Andrews
Southeast Region and President, Latino Hotel & Restaurant Associa-
President, Midwest Region South
Founder/President Iberian Chapter Lisbon, Portugal
Gonzalez
Marco Puente President of the Southern California Chapter "Las Californias"
26 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Board Member and Publisher, MAS New Mexico
Armando de la Garza IAHMP Mexico Chapter President
Elida Chavez President, Western Region
Rafael Gonzalez Board Member and retired NASA Space Shuttle Manager
Ramon Alvarez Director G.S.A.R. Marketing, President Spain Chapter, Madrid
Conference Agenda (Monday, December 3, 2012: Continued)
Introduction of CORPORATE BOARD OF ADVISORS
Tony Gladney
Dzidra Junior,
Vice President, National Diversity Relations, Caesar's Entertainment, Inc.
CMP, Director Global Sales, MGM Resorts International
Michael Dominguez CHSE,
Mike Smith, CDMP
Vice President, MGM Resorts INTERNATIONAL
Vice President Convention Sales, Travel Portland
Ed Pulsifer
Alex Yemenidjian
Bill Williams CMP,
Jorge Franz
Director of Sales and Marketing, La Fonda on the Plaza, Santa Fe, New Mexico
President, Tropicana Las Vegas
Vice President, Diversity/Sales, Chicago Convention & Visitors Bureau
Vice President, Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau
10:00 AM General Session – Multnomah Room Keynote Speaker Ira Koretsky The Chief Storyteller® "Making your communications unforgettable" “Think deliberately.” The mantra of a person who has made improving communications his life’s work. For more than 25 years nationally and internationally, Ira has been helping people make their communications unforgettable. Within minutes, he will forever change the way you communicate. He blends insightful and fun exercises into your program based on 12 years of performing improvisational humor professionally. Ira is an active blogger and writer, was a guest columnist for the Washington Business Journal and an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland. He helped the American Diabetes Association® develop its national sponsorship message; a US government contracting firm win a $94 million multi-year project; and helped The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) secure Affordable Care Act dollars and $6.2M for the National Youth Fitness Survey.
Introduction by Michael C. Smith, CDMP, Vice President of Convention Sales, Travel Portland and Rosa Mendoza-Friedheim, The Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa, Miami, Florida
10:45 AM Q/A with Ira Koretsky Moderators: Michael C. Smith, CDMP, Vice President of Convention Sales Travel Portland and Rosa Mendoza-Friedheim, The Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa, Miami, Florida
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 27
Conference Agenda (Monday, December 3, 2012: Continued)
11:00 - 11:10 AM Coffee Break – Mt. St. Helens Lobby 11:10 AM - 12:00 PM General Session – Multnomah Room Guest Speaker Fabiola Rodriguez-Ciampoli, Deputy Assistant Secretary Western Hemisphere Affairs, US Department of State “Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Fabiola Rodriguez-Ciampoli will share her experience as a pioneer in outreach to Hispanic media and as the Department of State’s lead for public diplomacy in the Americas. Her topics will include President Obama’s Executive Order on Travel and Tourism, the President’s 100,000 Strong in the Americas goal for international education, and Secretary Clinton’s vision for Economic Statecraft.” Mrs. Rodriguez previously served as communications director for the office of the Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus Rep. Xavier Becerra, in the U.S. House of Representatives. She also led an aggressive media effort to reach out to Hispanic voters as Director of Hispanic Communications for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign in 2007-2008. Her past positions include Director of Hispanic Media for the Senate Democratic Communications Center and Director of Specialty Media for the Democratic National Committee. Rodriguez-Ciampoli has more than 15 years of experience in communications, public affairs and public relations in the United States and Mexico. Rodriguez-Ciampoli earned a Masters of Arts in Public Communication at American University sponsored by a Fulbright Scholarship and a BA in Communications from Universidad Iberoamericana, in Mexico City.
Introduction of Speaker - Angela Gonzalez Rowe, AGR Hospitality Solutions, President, Latino Hotel & Restaurant Association
12:00 PM Luncheon – JB’s Lounge Recognizing our Colleagues in the Industry Industry Trade Show continues Featured Speaker Jan Fox She likes to say she came from a poor house in Shelbyville, Indiana, all the way to the White House and Hollywood interviewing many celebrities and US Presidents – a life she never could have imagined. As a TV personality, Jan won 3 Emmys at WUSA TV9 in Washington, DC: In Boston at ABC, she hosted the EMMY award winning talk show – Sunday Open House. Jan has been a sought-after “conversation starter” her word for “speaker”, facilitator, and emcee for more than 30 years, engaging hundreds of audiences. Her proprietary “SPEAK TWEAKS” program has helped Corporations, Law groups; Associations, Government Agencies, PR firms, Conferences, Women’s Groups, and other businesses raise the corporate communications level and increase the confidence of their employees. She’s trained at Marriott, Verizon, The Defense Logistics Agency, The CIA, The Senate Dirksen Building and Well Point, among many others. Several of Jan’s clients have used the tips in her new book, No MuuMuu, Please! How to Land a Guest Spot on TV and What To Do When You Get There, to add a TV segment to their resumes. She holds a Masters Degree in Education from Lesley University, where she directed the Outreach Program and taught graduate education courses to teachers.
Introduction of Guest Speaker - Lida Peterson, CPPM, President, Connected International Meeting Professionals Association
2:00 PM Attracting Multicultural Markets to Your Meeting/Destination – Multnomah Room Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) Speakers:
28 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Conference Agenda (Monday, December 3, 2012: Continued)
Carole Copeland Thomas As a speaker, trainer, global thought leader, and business owner since 1987, Carole Copeland Thomas moderates the discussions of key issues affecting our global marketplace. She has her pulse on the issues affecting working professionals and consults with industry leaders on a regular basis. From speaking at the Federal Highway Administration, SHRM, Hewlett Packard, Verizon, Cargill, and Monster.com to interviewing experts around the globe, Carole knows how to analyze the dynamics of a changing marketplace. Carole graduated with honors in 1975 from Emory University. She entered graduate school in 1983 (on a Martin Luther King, Jr. academic fellowship), and received her MBA degree from Northeastern University in Boston. Carole is the Tri State Coordinator for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the Chair of the Multicultural Committee for the Greater Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau. See: www.tellcarole.com Carlos Conejo is President of Peak Performance Seminars, Training & Consulting. A Thousand Oaks-based leadership and process improvement consulting firm. Conejo is the author of “Motivating Hispanic Employees: A Practical Guide to Understanding and Motivating Hispanic Employees” written for the non-Hispanic leader or manager in order to help withbetter understanding of the fine nuances of the Hispanic culture, approach to teamwork and other workplace issues. His second book, “Recruiting and Retaining Multicultural Employees” is geared toward assisting Human Resources professionals more effectively deal with the exploding populations in America. He is currently serving as President of the Pepperdine University Ventura County Alumni Association.
Julia Wai-Yin So, Ph.D - A Speaker of Diversity on Diversity Julia So, Ph.D is a retired college professor and administrator, Dr. Julia Wai-Yin So is the Principal of So García Associates, LLC. She has been speaking on diversity & inclusiveness, leadership & change, and Asian & Latino cultures since 1995. With decades of international experience working with people from culturally diverse backgrounds while living in Hong Kong, Japan and Ecuador, she is an expert on UNRAVELling the Three Cs to debunk certain culturalcommunication codes that one uses or presenting the Asian/Latino Parallels about the similarities of the two fastest growing racial/ethnic minority groups in the US. Dr. So received her B.A. and M.A. in Sociology from the University of Texas at Arlington, and Ph.D. in Public Policy and Political Economy from the University of Texas at Dallas.
Introduction of CDMP Speakers - Peggy B. Riley, CDME, Director of Multicultural Sales,Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau
2:45 PM Question & Answers 3:00 PM Coffee Break – Mt. St. Helens Lobby 3:15 PM CDMP Speakers continue... Setting Yourself Apart From Your Competitors Your special event, meeting or convention success is often times measured by the number of attendees. Learn strategies that you can implement to set your event, meeting or convention apart from your competitors.
4:30 PM New Technology For Special Events Industry – Multnomah Room Gerry Llames • Enterprise Solutions Inc. Gerry Llames is a Principal for the Sports Pro Community Network (SPCN). He and his brother Roberto 30 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Conference Agenda (Monday, December 3, 2012: Continued) founded SPCN after a family dinner. Combining his love of sports and Roberto’s IT business, SPCN was conceived. Gerry believes that SPCN should work with the concept of a holistic approach in helping athletes reach their potential in their chosen sport and serve as a resource to guide and motivate these athletes to continue to actively participate in sportsactivities past their prime playing years. Total collaboration means the involvement of parents, professionals and businesses to share their talents and resources to achieve this concept. Gerry graduated from the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and was a track star winning the MVP Award in Track while in school. He was the Track & Field Head Coach for Bishop O’Connell High School in Fairfax, Virginiafrom 2000-2001. Gerry is still an active basketball player and continue to participate in basketball tournaments both in the US and Canada.
Speaker introduction - Lida Peterson, President, CIMPA
6:00 PM Downtown Portland Tour and Reception at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts Sponsored by Travel Portland, the Portland Center for the Performing Arts, the Oregon Convention Center and Pacific Wild Catering.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012 8:30 AM Continental Breakfast – JB’s Lounge Trade Show Exhibits Continues
9:00 AM General Session – Timberline Room Special Guest Speaker Aaron Wodin-Schwartz Director, Public Policy Liaison - Brand USA Aaron Wodin-Schwartz is Director, Public Policy Liaison for Brand USA, the publicprivate partnership responsible for launching the United States first-ever nationally coordinated tourism marketing effort. In this role, Aaron is responsible for working with Federal partners and key industry groups to ensure productive implementation of the Travel Promotion Act, communicate U.S. entry policy, and develop collaborative opportunities to promote inbound travel to the United States. Aaron has gained strong Latin American experience during the course of his career, including his work at the State Department where he coordinated U.S.-Brazil efforts on environment, science, technology, and health; economic cooperation, social inclusion; and consular affairs. Prior to his government service, he was the program assistant for the Latin American and Hemispheric Studies Program at The George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs. He speaks fluent Spanish and is conversant in French and Portuguese. He holds the M.A. in Latin American and Hemispheric Studies from The George Washington University and the B.A. in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts. The mission of Brand USA is to encourage increased international visitation to the United States and in doing so, aims to bring millions of new international visitors to the United States, creating thousands of new American jobs. Brand USA was established by the Travel Promotion Act in 2010 to spearhead the nation's first global marketing effort to promote the United States as a premier travel destination. Formed as the Corporation for Travel Promotion, the public-private entity does business as Brand USA. www.thebrandusa.com
10:00 AM General Session – Timberline Room Corporate Guest Speaker on The Future of Meetings Michael Dominguez, CHSE Senior Vice Pres. Hotel Sales • MGM Resorts International Michael has been involved in the hospitality industry for the last 25 years. His early career included Hyatt www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 31
Conference Agenda (Monday, December 3, 2012: Continued) Hotels, Starwood Hotels, Loews Hotels & Resorts and numerous independent hotel management companies. In 2003, Michael served as Vice President of Sales for Palm Springs Convention Visitors Authority and in 2012 he joined MGM Resorts International as the Senior Vice President of Global Sales. His responsibilities includes oversight of 13 Las Vegas Hotels and 3 Regional hotels in Detroit, Mississippi and Reno.
Introduction by: JIM ESTRADA, President & CEO, Estrada Communications Group, Inc.
11:00 AM Coffee Break – Mt. St. Helens Lobby 11:15 AM General Session – Timberline Room Hispanic Associations: Inside Track on How to Secure Our Business Speakers: Benny Agosto, Jr. President, Hispanic National Bar Association Mr. Benny Agosto, Jr. is a partner with Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Sorrels, Agosto & Friend. Mr. Agosto has been admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court and is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law. He is past president of the Mexican American Bar Association of Texas. Mr. Agosto founded the MABATx Scholarship Foundation, and most recently co-founded the HNBA Legal Education Fund, both of which benefit Hispanic Law students. He was formerly chair of the board of editors for the Texas Bar Journal and serves as co-editor in chief of the HNBA Journal of Law and Policy. He received the State Bar of Texas 2006 President’s Certificate of Merit and is a two-time recipient of the HBA President’s Award. Mr. Agosto has been named as one of Texas’ Super Lawyers by Texas Monthly Magazine (05-11) and has recently been appointed by ABA President-Elect William Robinson to serve as a member of the Commission on Racial and Ethnic Diversity in the Profession. He has also been selected as one of the Top Attorneys in America for 2012. Mr. Agosto is on the Board of Directors of the Houston Bar Association and a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates. He was recently named one of the Nation’s 101 Most Influential Leaders in the Latino Community by Latino Leaders Magazine. He is a life fellow of the Houston Bar Foundation and a fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation. Mr. Agosto is a graduate of South Texas College of Law.
Roland Ramirez Corporate Liaison Manager, SER Jobs for Progress Roland has over 15 years experience with Workforce Development at the local, State and Federal levels working with Board of Director’s, Elected Officials, State and Federal officials. He has experience with implementing workforce development programming for Adult and Youth programs in Texas and for SCSEP (Senior Community Service Employment Program) in six (6) eastern states. He has attended John Carver’s Board Policy Governance training. Currently, he is employed with SER-Jobs for Progress National, Inc., as Corporate Liaison Manager where his responsibilities and duties include meeting and conference planning, coordinator of the SER America Magazine and SER Annual Report and grant writing. Roland has served on the City of Dallas Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program Advisory Committee, Dallas Public Schools Hispanic Advisory Committee, Fiesta Bee County Board Chairman, Bee County Literacy Council Board Member, Kiwanis International, and is a current member of United States Navy League, Kessler Neighbors Unlimited and National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Séverine Stephenson, CMP Manager, Events & Logistics, National Society of Hispanic MBA's (NSHMBA) Ms. Stephenson manages logistics of NSHMBA’s national events which range from 15 to 6,000 attendees including: Kick-Off, Board of Directors, Corporate Advisory Board, Chapter Leader Training, Healthcare 32 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Conference Agenda (Monday, December 3, 2012: Continued) Summit, Executive Leadership and Annual Conference & Career Expo. She specializes in meeting management, project management, marketing and logistics as well as public speaking. Séverine received a BA in Communications from Texas State University.
Introduction by: Gary R. Simon, Director, Multicultural Affairs, Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau
1:00 PM Association Luncheon - Tradeshow Continues – JB’s Lounge Becky Krinsky Founder of Recipes for Life & Recetas para la Vida. Krinsky is a connector of people. Finding common life experiences that connected her with others she has met in her professional and personal world, inspired her to develop Recetas Para la Vida™/Recipes for Life™. Krinsky, a successful entrepreneur and university professor, has also organized business/inspirational symposiums and international seminars in human development. With an educational background and degrees from the University of Mexico in the sciences, education, human development, and counseling, she is also a proud mother and housewife. Recetas Para la Vida™/Recipes for Life™ launched her speaking career as she now appears on numerous Spanish language radio and television shows, sharing the “recipes.”The recipes are also published in dozens of publications to promote living a life of substance. Her desire is to take these recipes for life and make them learning experiences with a moral foundation that can be passed on from generation to generation. It is a true family life cookbook that she will stand by. Krinsky is based in San Diego, California. Introduction of Guest Speaker by: Alessandra Bergman-Nicolini, Director of National and Hispanic Sales, Tropicana Las Vegas
2:15 PM General Session – Timberline Room Understanding the Cultural Differences of Your Attendees: Strategies to Promote Inclusiveness at Your Annual Meeting. Speaker: Jim Estrada, President & CEO, Estrada Communications Group Jim Estrada is nationally renowned for his expertise in ethnic marketing, with over 30 years of advertising and public relations experience. In 1992, he founded Estrada Communications Group in San Antonio, TX, which specializes in Corporate & Marketing Communications. Now based in Austin, ECG provides clients with strategic counsel related to the Hispanic Consumer Market (HCM) and Latino communities across the USA. ECG has provided counsel to several of the nation's most respected corporations, among them: Advantica (Denny's), Anheuser-Busch Companies, AT&T Mobility (nee Cingular), HISPANIC Magazine, Lopez Foods, Marathon Oil, McDonald's, MCI, Pizza Hut, Super Show Deportivo (NFL/TV), Univisión TV Network, Walmart, and Wells Fargo Bank.
Introduction by: Evelyn Vazquez, CDMP, Director of Sales, St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, Visitors and Convention Bureau and Claribel Gutierrez, Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority
3:15 PM Break - Mt. St. Helens Lobby 3:30 PM General Session – Timberline Room Promoting your Event to Media Clara Padilla Andrews (Speaker & Facilitator) Mrs. Clara Padilla Andrews is the immediate past President of the National Association of Hispanic Publications (NAHP), headquartered in Washington, DC ’s National Press Building. She is the Owner/Publisher of the El Hispanic News based in Portland, Oregon and Más New Mexico based in Albuquerque, New Mexico . 34 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Clara is a native of Albuquerque and was elected to the office of Secretary of State of New Mexico from 1982 to 1986 making her the highest ranking Latina public official in the nation at that time. During her varied career she has received the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute Distinguished Service Award; founded the Hacienda Community Development Corporation and The Clara Vista Apartments that set a national standard for community comprehensive housing services. In 1985, she founded Las Amigas de Nuevo Mexico, to promote travel to the State of New Mexico. She currently serves as a member of the board of directors for MANA a National Latina Organization, is Secretary of the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility; the National Hispanic Leadership Agenda and the International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals - IAHMP.
Melanie Davis is the publisher-owner of El Hispanic News, named the nation’s #1 bilingual monthly newspaper for seven consecutive years; the publisherowner of PQ Monthly, Oregon and SW Wa s h i n g t o n’s fastest- growing LGBTQ publication; and also the Principal-Senior Strategist for Su Publico, the only full-service multi-cultural ad agency in Oregon. With Melanie’s leadership, research, and business savvy, both publications advertising sales have not only significantly increased, but also expanded into new advertising markets such as housing, cars, arts and entertainment, job classifieds, healthcare, finance, and more. Melanie’s leadership has also created amazing relationships with organizations that now team up with the Latino and LGBTQ communities. Melanie is also one of the founders of Portland Latino Gay Pride, which was founded in 2006.
Conference Agenda (Tuesday, December 4, 2012: Continued) She is able to cite statistics and trends pertaining to the Latino community on a national, statewide, and local level helping to create a greater awareness of the Latino community, within the Mainstream markets. This passion that Melanie has for breaking ground for the Latino and LGBTQ communities in Oregon, has made her very popular with local politicians, business owners, University Administrators, and everyday people who live all over Oregon.
Kirk Whisler is the president of Western Publication Research, a national advertising sales program representing 625 Hispanic publications; WPR Books, a book publishing company; LPNnews, a news service targeting Latino media; and Eastern Publication Research that does Hispanic readership studies and other research. From 1992 to 1996 Whisler served as publisher of Mexico Events & Destinations Magazine. Between 1986 and 1992 Kirk was publisher of NEVADA Magazine and from 1977 to 1986 Kirk was publisher of SOMOS AND CAMINOS Magazines.
4:30 PM Free Time 7:00 PM Reception: Washington Room 8:00 PM Diversity Awards Dinner – Washington Room • Master of Ceremonies - Roy Jay • Hotel Corporation of the Year Award • Presentation of CDMP Graduates
• CVB of the Year Award • Asian Leaders Award by CIMPA • Entertainment TBA
Wednesday, December 5, 2012 8:30 AM Breakfast – Timberline Room 9:00 - 11:00 AM Meeting Planner Round Tables Suppliers Meet with Planners learn more about their Businesses Séverine Stephenson, CMP, Manager, Events & Logistics, National Society of Hispanic MBA’s, Dallas, Texas. Ms. Stephenson manages logistics of NSHMBA’s national events which range from 15 to 6,000 attendees including: Kick-Off, Board of Directors, Corporate Advisory Board, Chapter Leader Training, Healthcare Summit, Executive Leadership and Annual Conference & Career Expo. She specializes in meeting management, project management, marketing and logistics as well as public speaking. Séverine received a BA in Communications from Texas State University.
Terry Singleton, CCP Events, President and Immediate Past International President at International Special Events Society –ISES; Atlanta, Georgia. In 1993 Terry founded CCP Events, a conference planning and special events production company, in Atlanta, Georgia. Recognized by fortune 500 corporations as innovative and creative their impressive customer list includes industry icons Xerox, Turner Broadcasting, Home Depot, Coca Cola to name a few. CCP Events produces over 250 conferences, meetings and events annually. Terry’s commitment to the industry was recognized in 2000 when she was named, “One of the 100 Top Convention Planners” in the South by Convention South Magazine. She is the immediate past president of the International Special Event Society. A frequent speaker at industry conferences, Ms. Singleton is recognized as a subject matter expert on special event trends and designs. Follow Terry on Twitter@CCPEvents
Gregorio Palomino CEP, CWP, CRE8IVE Executive Officer, Meetings, Incentives, Corporate & Social Events, San Antonio, Texas. In 2007, Greg launched CRE8AD8(Create-A-Date), a National Event Marketing Agency headquartered in San Antonio, Texas which now has 13 locations spanning across 8 states & 4 international locations, over 200 employees and has won numerous awards in their respective industry. CRE8AD8 not only produces events, but has also launched several other branches to its Agency; Concierge 36 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Conference Agenda (Wednesday, December 5, 2012: Continued) by CRE8AD8‌for the business professional, hotelier & homeowner; Venue Management by CRE8AD8, Event Brokerage by CRE8AD8 & TravelD8.com. They also hatched its newest addition specializing in renting homes for major sporting events around the globe. With clientele coming from Fortune 10 Corporations and Fortune 5 Franchises as well as dozens of weddings since their inception, CRE8AD8 has made an impact in their industry and now competes on national levels. Greg attended the University of Texas San Antonio majoring in Marketing, Management & Public Relations. He now oversees daily operations as CEO and President of CRE8AD8.
Maria Bonilla-Giuriato, President, Bonilla-Giuriato & Associates, Salinas, California. Bonilla-Giuriato is former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's Deputy Director of Governor's Office of Economic Development. She has consulting business offices in the Monterey County Central Coast and Sacramento specializing in consulting projects or government work in various areas including business development and government and corporate relations among others. BonillaGiuriato has been involved in event planning dating back two decades. Some of her major events have been Presidential visits, CSU Monterey Bay grand opening and numerous private clients and corporations as well as major foundations. While serving as Appointee to the Governor she did numerous events throughout the state and was in charge of planning and hosting the Governors’ Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations. In late2010, she opened a new office Giuriato & Zmery, an international trade and business consulting firm in Zapopan and Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. Ms. Bonilla-Giuriato has also served as an elected official as ViceMayor and City Council Member for the City of Salinas. She is a well-recognized leader throughout the state of California and the national and international stage. She has been involved in the community advocating for the disadvantaged for over thirty years.
11:00 AM
End of Program
•
Safe Travels!
Conference Sponsors
Conference Participants Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce Bonilla-Giuriato & Associates Brand USA Business Endeavors C & C Communications California Special Occasions
Louisville CVB MAS New Mexico Ministry of Tourism Dominican Republic Moorpark College National Society of Hispanic MBA’s Oregon Commission on Hispanic Affairs
Carole Copeland Thomas
Peak Performance Seminars, Training & Consulting
CCP Events
Recipes for Life & Recetas para la Vida
Connected International Meeting Professionals Association
Red Lion Hotel on the River
CPL Events CRE8AD8 (Create-A-Date) Crowne Plaza San Diego El Hispanic News Enterprise Solutions, Inc. Estrada Communications Group, Inc. Gonzalez Global Media
Renaissance Financial Group LLC Sacramento CVB SER Jobs for Progress So GarcĂa Associates, LLC St. Augustine/Ponte Vedra VCB The Chief Storyteller The Mirage Las Vegas
Grand Sierra Resort
The Oregon Convention and Visitor Services
HelmsBriscoe
The Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa
Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber
Tropicana Las Vegas
Hispanic National Bar Association
U.S. Department of State
La Voz de Yuma
Visit Buffalo Niagara
Las Vegas CVA
Visit Denver
Latino Hotel & Restaurant Association
Western Publication Research
38 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Certified Diversity Meeting Professional Each year, millions of people travel globally to attend meetings, conventions and special events. It is therefore a necessity for people within the travel and tourism industry to be culturally aware if they want to maintain relevance and stay competitive. Connecting with your customers is no longer a luxury it’s a necessity. When you understand customer’s needs and preferences you can more effectively support your company’s efforts to delight customers and win their loyalty – which translates into greater profits for your firm. IAHMP founded the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional designation to meet the needs of industry professionals who work and do business with people all over the world. Becoming culturally aware means understanding your customer based on a specific knowledge of a person’s country of origin, cultural nuances and among other traits such as gender, educational level, etc.
Certified Diversity Meeting Professional Designation
In today’s global market economy, meeting planners across the board are finding it challenging to create a meeting environment that supports and promotes the inclusion of diversity. As attendance to annual events diversifies, so does the role of the meeting planner. Gender, religious practices, language barriers and cultural awareness are all issues that must be identified to ensure that attendees get the maximum benefit of attending business meetings and educational programs at various conferences and special events. IAHMP supports the old axiom “Knowledge is Power” and wants to put in the hands of meeting professionals on both sides of the table the knowledge that will better prepare them for the future.
Certification Program
The International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals (IAHMP) has developed and implemented a Certification Program for its members and industry professionals to enhance their skills in the market place. In partnership with Academic and Industry Professionals, IAHMP has successfully introduced the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) program, which is the first program of its type in the Meetings & Hospitality industry. Materials for the program include a Study Guide and the CDMP Testing Program. Upon completion of the CDMP individuals will be able to enhance their professional skills to work with diverse publics.
The CDMP Program will:
The CDMP program will Increase intercultural understanding, interaction and communication and further the appreciation and understanding of Mexican/Hispanic Americans, African Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans and other cultures in the Western Hemisphere. The CDMP program will provide a bridge for collaborative and cooperative exchanges among the diverse groups in the industry. The CDMP program will facilitate an understanding of Hispanic Americans, African Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans and other groups in the Western Hemisphere and create opportunities to work together in professional relationships. The CDMP program will act as a catalyst for intercultural development in the meetings & hospitality industry. The CDMP program will develop a network for future intercultural and professional development activities through the IAHMP annual conference. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 39
I N D U ST RY PRO F I L E S | I N D U ST RY E X EC U T I V E S Aaron Wodin-Schwartz is Director, Public Policy Liaison for Brand USA, the public-private partnership responsible for launching the United States’ first-ever nationally coordinated tourism marketing effort. In this role, Aaron is responsible for working with Federal partners and key industry groups to ensure productive implementation of the Travel Promotion Act, communicate U.S. entry policy, and develop collaborative opportunities to promote inbound travel to the United States. During his tenure with Brand USA, Aaron has successfully established a variety of programs with the Departments of Commerce and State that highlight and help promote the “Discover America” campaign from U.S. embassies, consulates, “American Spaces,” and digital properties around the world.
Aaron Wodin-Schwartz DIRECTOR, PUBLIC POLICY LIAISON Brand USA
Aaron joined Brand USA in November 2011, bringing significant public policy and government experience to the Brand USA team. From 2009 to 2011, as a Presidential Management Fellow at the Department of Commerce, Aaron served as policy advisor to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Services Industries where he helped implement the Travel Promotion Act. While at the Department of Commerce, Aaron led key departmental initiatives including improvement of services trade statistics, development of strategies to double services industries exports, and the International Trade Administration’s response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Aaron has gained strong Latin American experience during the course of his career, including his work at the State Department where he coordinated U.S.-Brazil efforts on environment, science, technology, and health; economic cooperation, social inclusion; and consular affairs. Prior to his government service, he was the program assistant for the Latin American and Hemispheric Studies Program at The George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs. He speaks fluent Spanish and is conversant in French and Portuguese. Aaron is active with Young Professionals in Foreign Policy where he serves as Director of Stewardship. He plays in several recreational soccer leagues, follows Boston sports teams, and enjoys outdoor sports such as mountain biking and skiing. He holds the M.A. in Latin American and Hemispheric Studies from The George Washington University and the B.A. in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts. Brand USA was established by the Travel Promotion Act in 2010 to spearhead the nation's first global marketing effort to promote the United States as a premier travel destination and to communicate U.S. entry/exit policies and procedures to worldwide travelers. Formed as the Corporation for Travel Promotion, the public-private entity began operations in May 2011 and does business as Brand USA. Brand USA works in close partnership with the travel industry to maximize the economic and social benefits of travel. The program's activities are funded through a combination of private-sector investment and matching funds collected by the U.S. Government from international visitors who come to the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program. Through its call-toaction—Discover America—Brand USA inspires travelers to explore the United States of America’s boundless possibilities. For industry or partner information about Brand USA, visit www.TheBrandUSA.com. For information about exceptional and unexpected travel experiences in the United States, please visit Brand USA’s consumer website at www.DiscoverAmerica.com.
40 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Culinary Masters
Regional Events
Houston, Texas
Competition sizzles in Houston
P
resented by the
Latino Hotel & Restau-
rant Association,
in
conjunction with the Cámara de Empresarios Latinos de
ABOVE: Chef Alberto Alfonso, Owner of Tinto’s Spanish Restaurant, wins the title 2012 LHRA Culinary Master.
Houston, the Culinary
Masters
Competition
took place at the Westin
Galleria in September of
2012. This unique event
featured 4 of the top His-
panic Chefs in Houston
and pivoted them to cre-
ate innovative menu pre-
sentations with a Latin the Latino Hotel & Restaurant Association flair in a competitive set- with 2 of the competing chefs: Alberto Al-
ABOVE: Angela Gonzalez-Rowe President of
ting. Goya Foods spon- and Polo Becerra, Owner of Post Oak Grill (R). sored the secret ingrediing panel which included Hisfonso, Owner of Tinto’s Spanish Restaurant (L)
ent that was revealed to the competing
chefs
moments
before the competition began.
The winner of the competition
was selected by a 3 person judg-
panic Meetings & Travel’s very
own Associate
Editor,
Mr.
Steven Gonzalez and the Presi-
dent of the International Associ-
ation of Hispanic Meeting Pro-
fessionals, Margaret Gonzalez.
One of the MCs of the night was
Angela Gonzalez-Rowe, Presi-
dent of LHRA.HM&T presents
a photo journal of this unique
Hispanic event competition.
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 41
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 41
Meetings Destinations 2013 As the new year approaches Hispanic Associations are beginning the process of choosing and setting their meetings and events dates and destinations. Hispanic Meetings & Travel took a small sample of 23 national Hispanic associations and researched the 28 events being held in 2013. HM&T presents the four cities that have emerged as the leading meeting destinations of 2013 and why they are so appealing to the Hispanic meetings industry.
Washington DC • San Antonio • Chicago • New Orleans WASHINGTON DC
1. WASHINGTON DC
With many Hispanic associations headquartered in the nation’s capital. Washington DC is the natural fit for conferences, summits, galas and events. MEETINGS STATISTICS: • There are approximately 121 properties and 28,711 hotel rooms located in Washington, DC. The Greater Washington Metropolitan Region is home to approximately 660 properties and 106,051 rooms (including those located within DC proper). • There are 23 properties currently in the construction pipeline that are expected to be delivered in 2013 and beyond, including 2 that are currently under construction. • There is more than 4 million square feet of event/exhibit/meeting space in the Greater Washington region, with 2.2
WASHINGTON DC 42 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
million square feet of event space in the city of DC alone. • In 2011, DC hosted 808 conventions, meetings and tradeshows, including 48 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. These meetings attracted more than 1 million attendees.
HISPANIC DEMOGRAPHICS: • DC’s population includes 9% Hispanic/Latino of its total Population of 601,723. • Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting will hold its’ 41st Annual Convention in DC in August 2013 • The US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce will hold its’ 2013 Legislative Summit in DC in March 2013
2. SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS
America’s most historic city lives up to the hype with its history, culture, cuisine and architecture all displaying its rich Hispanic culture. San Antonio offers Hispanic associations a home away from home feel like no other city can.
MEETINGS STATISTICS: • From downtown convention hotels to Hill Country resorts, San Antonio provides more than 43,000 sleeping rooms including more than 13,500 rooms available downtown. About 6,500 are within walking distance of the convention center. • The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center features more than 600,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including more than 430,000 sq. ft. of contiguous exhibit hall space. The city also boasts beautiful outdoor venues such as the River Walk Grotto, Waterfall Patio and Plaza Mexico that provide many popular options for networking and hospitality events. • San Antonio is centrally located between both coasts so attendees don’t have to fly across the country to get there. NOTABLE HISPANIC MEETINGS IN 2013: • American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education - 8th Annual National Conference
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS • Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association - 40th Annual Symposium & Exhibit Fair • Society for the Advancement of Chicanos & Native Americans in Science National Conference • National Society of Hispanic MBAs – 24th Annual Conference & Career Expo • Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities - 10th International Conference
3. CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
The largest city of the American MidWest, Chicago beckons to host any event, meeting or conference.
MEETINGS LOGISTICS: • Chicago boasts the most exhibit and meeting room space in the Western Hemisphere with convention centers
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
such as McCormick place and the Navy Pier. • With a choice of 107,000 Chicagoland hotel rooms, of which 35,000 rooms are located downtown, securing accommodations for any convention is easily feasible. • With more than 160 nonstop flights daily to 49 countries, Chicago allows easy travel for international meeting attendees. NOTABLE HISPANIC MEETINGS IN 2013: • US Hispanic Leadership Institute 31st National Conference • National Association of Latino Elected Officials - 30th Annual Conference • Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities - 27th Annual Conference
4. NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
With great food, music and charm the Big Easy is making a splash with Hispanic meetings in 2013. MEETINGS LOGISTICS: • The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center boasts more than one million square feet of exhibit space, 140 meeting rooms and a 4,000-seat auditorium. • New Orleans offers a compact geographic footprint, providing close proximity of meeting facilities and local attractions. The core of the city contains over 22,000 sleeping rooms, all within a two mile radius set in distinctively different neighborhoods • New Orleans is a city rich in history and home to more National Historic Landmarks than any other U.S. city. NOTABLE HISPANIC MEETINGS IN 2013: • National Council of La Raza – Annual Conference & Latino Family Expo • National Association of Hispanic Nurses – 38th Annual Conference • HENAAC, Hispanic Engineer National Achievement Awards Corporation - 25th Conference
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 43
Meetings Destinations 2013
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
Jessica Emely Ordones Ramos of Houston, Texas, Quince cover girl Summer/Fall 2012 Make your talent shine: During your special day make it a point to showcase your talent by playing an instrument, dancing or singing. Jessica’s parents told us about her special talent, “Our fondest memory of Jessica’s quinceañera was everything, but the best part was when she sang to us. She sang “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion. She has an amazing, beautiful singing voice.” Haz brillar tu talento: Durante este día tan especial muestra tu talento al tocar un instrumento, bailar o cantar. Los padres de Jessica nos hablaron de su talento especial, “El mejor recuerdo de la quinceañera de Jessica fue todo, pero lo que nos gusto mas fue cuando ella nos canto la canción “Because You Loved Me” de Celine Dion. Tiene una maravillosa y bella voz.” Please visit the Quince Magazine archives at www.issuu.com/quince.magazine to view all our past issues.
Want to be featured in QUINCE Magazine?
Quince Magazine is currently looking for quinceañeras to feature in its upcoming issues. We
want to hear from you if: You’ve had a quinceañera in the last 3 years. Have a unique story
to tell about your quince fiesta. Are beginning your quince planning and would like for us to
chronicle your journey. Contact the Editor of Quince Magazine at mdgonzalez@his-
panicmeetingstravel.com to submit your name and information. A Quince Magazine staff member will follow up with you to work out the details of your feature.
Quince Magazine | 5
Elsie Y. Marentes of Houston, Texas, Quince cover girl, Winter 2011 issue Choosing a court of honor: Whether to have a court or not, whether it’s your family or friends choosing a court of honor can be difficult. Elsie explained how she chose her court and the effect it had on her fiesta. “The most difficult part of the planning process was that I wanted all of my cousins to be a part of my Court of Honor but they all lived away from the city. So we had to plan the event in a week where everyone could come so that the choreographer could teach us the dance.” La elección de un corte de honor: Elegir un corte de honor puede ser difícil, ¿si habrá un corte o no? ¿Sera tu familia o amigos? Elsie explicó cómo eligió su corte y el efecto que tuvo en su fiesta. “La parte más difícil del proceso de planificar fue que yo quería que todos mis primos participaran en la corte de honor y todos viven fuera de la cuidad. Tuvimos que organizar el evento en una semana donde todos pudieran venir y el coreógrafo pudiera enseñarnos el baile.”
Spring 2012 Quince cover girl, Kayla D. Regalado, San Antonio, Texas Hiring an event planner: Sometimes life gets too busy when you’re planning a quince so the time comes to reach out for help. Kayla’s mother explains why they hired an event planner, “I was traveling on business 2 weeks out of the month and felt the need for assistance with the planning. So, I went directly to Nelva Studio for the event planning after witnessing her professionalism. On the day of the event, [my husband] Rudy and I were busy greeting family and friends and Nelva’s family was busy working and keeping an eye on things to ensure everything fell in to place.” Contratar un planificador de eventos: A veces la vida se pone muy ocupada mientras estás planeando una quinceañera y es hora de buscar ayuda. La madre de Kayla explica por qué se contrató un organizador de eventos, “Yo estaba viajando por cuestión de negocios 2 semanas al mes y sentía la necesidad de tener asistencia con la planificación. Por lo tanto, me fui directamente a Nelva Estudio para la planificación de eventos después de presenciar su profesionalismo. En el día del evento, [mi marido] Rudy y yo estábamos ocupados saludando a la familia y los amigos mientras tanto Nelva y su familia ocupados trabajando y manteniendo todo lo demás para asegurar de que todo funcionara correctamente.”
4 | Quince Magazine • www.Quincemagazine.com
Andrea Elizabeth Riojas, Summer 2011 Quince cover girl of Clear Lake City, Texas Choosing a theme: A theme is a great way to communicate to your guests what the feel of your party will be even before the big day arrives. For example, your invitations can carry your theme. Andrea’s mother explained their choice, “We decided the theme for Andrea’s quinceañera would be butterflies, not only because it is a sign of a new beginning, but because Andrea is a competitive swimmer and her best stroke is the 100 yard butterfly.” Elegir un tema: Un tema para la fiesta es una gran manera de comunicar a tus invitados el ambiente de la fiesta. Por ejemplo, tus invitaciones pueden tener toques de tu tema. La madre de Andrea explicó su elección, “Decidimos el tema de la quinceañera de Andrea sería mariposas, no sólo porque es una señal de un nuevo inicio, sino porque Andrea es una nadadora competitiva y su mejor carrera es la mariposa de 100 yardas.”
Fall 2011 Quince Magazine cover girl, Yamantie Galnares of Bainbridge, Georgia Unique venues: Since Yamantie lives in a rural area of the country finding a reception hall was a challenge. Her reception and dance was held in an unlikely location but the choice was brilliant. “We searched for a venue worthy of seating 300 guests, with sufficient space for everyone to be comfortable and the local university afforded us that,” her parents explained. Remember to think outside the box if you’re having a hard time finding the right location. Sedes distintas: Dado que Yamantie vive en un área rural del país, la búsqueda de un salón de recepción era un reto. Su recepción y baile se celebraron en un lugar improbable, pero la elección fue brillante. “Buscamos un lugar digno de recibir 300 invitados, con espacio suficiente para que estuvieran cómodos y la universidad local nos lo ofrecía,” explicaron sus padres. Recuerda de pensar fuera de la casilla si estás teniendo dificultades en encontrar el lugar adecuado para tu fiesta.
Quince Magazine | 3
Quince Magazine has compiled a list of the best tips, ideas and outside of the box thinking that our cover girls have shared with us in the last two years. We find them to be interesting and unique and offer helpful insight to those families that are currently planning their own quinceañeras. Revista Quince ha compilado una lista de los
Quince’s original cover girl Karen E. Galnares of San Benito, Texas Finding the Dress: If you can’t find the dress of your dreams then hire a professional designer or better yet design the dress yourself! Professional designer Felipe Manzanares designed Karen’s beautiful lime green and turquoise gown while Karen designed her party dress. El Vestido: Si no puedes encontrar el vestido de tus sueños contrata a un diseñador profesional o mejor aún ¡diseña el vestido tu misma! El diseñador Felipe Manzanares diseñó el hermoso vestido de color lima y turquesa, mientras que Karen diseñó su vestido de fiesta. Smells like Teen Spirit: Karen’s fiesta had a dedicated “Teen Lounge” in one corner of the Cantera ballroom. It was made up of couches, tables and curtains all in white with cool lighting. “We were looking for a way to have dedicated space for the teens,” Karen’s parents explained. Solo para Jóvenes: La fiesta de Karen hubo un dedicado "Sala para Teens" en una esquina del salón Cantera. Fue compuesta de sillones, mesas y cortinas blancas y una iluminación interesante. “Estábamos buscando una manera de tener un espacio
2 | Quince Magazine
mejores consejos, ideas y fuera del cuadro pensamiento que nuestras chicas de portada han compartido con nosotros en los últimos dos años. Nos parecen que sean interesantes y únicos y ofrecen unas ideas útiles para aquellas familias que actualmente están planeando sus propias quinceañeras.