HM&T 2012 Summer/Fall by Hispanic Meetings & Travel

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SUMMER/FALL 2012

VOL 14

NO 2

contents COVER STORY 24 | PRESIDENT OBAMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NATIONAL TRAVEL & TOURISM STRATEGY Photo Bottom Left: April 9, 2011 "After the President and Congress finally agreed on a bill to keep the government from shutting down, the President decided to make an unannounced stop to thank tourists for visiting the Lincoln Memorial the following day. Here, the President greets a surprised young girl as other tourists in the background snap pictures of their chance encounter with the President." (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

4 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

FEATURES 14 Texas Meetings Destinations 20 Industry Profiles 32 Working with CVBs 34 International Destination Spotlight: Cancun, Mexico

36 Gulf Coast Meetings 42 U.S. Travel Spotlight: Goliad, Texas 48 QUINCE Magazine

DEPARTMENTS 06 Publisher’s Letter 08 Editor’s Comment/Credits 10 Industry Briefs 30 ¡SenSPAcional! Spa Spotlight 38 Meeting Planner Incentives

40 Calendar of Events www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 5

PUBLISHER'S LETTER

n September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, which was observed during the week that included Sept. 15 and Sept. 16. The observance was expanded in 1988 by Congress to a month long celebration (Sept. 15 – Oct. 15), effective the following year. America celebrates the culture and traditions of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanishspeaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. Every year we have an opportunity to join in the festivities when Univision brings programming from La Cuidad de Mexico (Mexico City). If you have not seen it you are missing out on a great expression of pride and celebration in this historic city. Thousands of people will join the Mexican President with the “Grito de libertad” (liberty cry). In Mexico’s history they have successfully ousted the French, Spain and the United States and September 16th is a day to remember Mexico’s Independence from Spain. Like the 4th of July in the United States of America, Mexico’s Independence is celebrated throughout the country and also in the USA. Why is it celebrated in the USA? With a growing population of 52 million, the Hispanic people of the United States are the nation’s largest ethnic or race minority and 2nd is the ranking of the size of the U.S. Hispanic population worldwide, as of 2010 only Mexico (112 million) had a larger Hispanic population than the United States (50.5 million). And 63% of Hispanic-origin people in the United States claim their Mexican background and many of them trace their roots to the original people of the Southwest when 6 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

the lands were part of the “New World” first under Spain and then Mexico. Source: The Hispanic Population: 2010 census.gov/prod/cen2010/briefs/c2010br04.pdf During Hispanic Heritage Month it may be a good time to remember that in Arizona the Tucson public school system has banned the Mexican American Studies (MAS) curriculum and books authored by Isabel Allende, Junot Diaz, Jonathan Kozol, Rudolfo Anaya, bell hooks, Sandra Cisneros, James Baldwin, Howard Zinn, Rodolfo Acuna, Ronald Takaki, Jerome Skolnick and Gloria Anzaldua have been banned. Even Thoreau’s Civil Disobedience and Shakespeare’s the Tempest have been banned. I invite you to look up these books and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by reading these books and telling others to do the same. In this issue we recognize the leadership provided by President Barack Obama in support of the travel industry. No other president has accomplished the establishment of a new federal agency, Brand USA, to promote travel to the United States. The president has been instrumental in making Americans aware of the economic benefits to the nation from this industry that employs thousands of Americans. An increase in travel will result in an increase

in jobs and an increase in revenues which will benefit the nation overall. Also be sure to the read the Guest Editorial “America Still the one” that dispels claims that America is in decline. In fact, after reading this article you will come away with a better understanding on the world power the United States commands and how we continue to be the place that everyone wants to live in. No other nation is as powerful as the United States of America. Saludos,

Margaret Rodríguez de González Publisher – Editor-in-Chief

In the Next Issue __________________________________________

FALL / WINTER 2012 • IAHMP Conference • Southwest Meeting Destinations • Hispanic Heritage • Mexico Meeting Destinations __________________________________________

Want to write for Hispanic Meetings & Travel Magazine? We occasionally accept contributed articles and essays. Contact the managing editor with your pitch.

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EDITOR’S COMMENT

and made it a priority of his administration, more so than any other administration, to shine a light on the travel industry and the impact it has on the nation’s economy. With the creation of Brand USA and efforts to ease the passport application process for emerging markets such as Brazil and China, President Obama has given the U.S. Travel industry a great boost and we here at HM&T salute him for it. Our cover story begins on page 24 with a Guest Editorial on page 29. This summer the world witnessed one of the greatest gatherings ever assembled – the London Summer Olympics. I personally watched as much of it as I could. From numerous NBC networks to NBC online I could watch my favorite sports and athletes compete while I was at home, at the office or out and about. I become the ultimate Olympics fan every 2 years marveling at the dedication, strength and technique that Olympians possess in order to compete on the world stage. But as a meeting planner and travel enthusiast I also marvel at the logistics of putting on such an event! All the flights, lodging, ground transportation, meals, scheduling, press, communications, everything that makes this and any event a success is mind boggling!! Any of this sounds familiar? You are nodding your head “yes” if you have ever planned a weekend getaway or family vacation, a board meeting or annual convention for 20,000. We have all had “Olympic” logistical moments. And as we witnessed in London nothing beats great planning. With that being said in this issue Hispanic Meetings & Travel has focused on President Obama’s administration and its’ efforts to increase travel to the United States. From Disneyland to New York City and Hollywood, there are millions of people in the world waiting to visit the U.S. and President Obama has recognized it 8 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

It has been the experience of HM&T that Hispanics tend to bring their families along when they attend a conference so we decided to focus on family attractions for each destination profiled in this issue’s Texas Meeting Destinations feature (pages 14-19). From history to entertainment to technology Texas has it all and is a sure fit for your next conference! In this issue we present 3 dynamic Hispanic executives at the Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB, Las Vegas CVA and Kissimmee CVB all willing and ready to help you have the best conference or convention at their respective destinations (pages 20-23). HM&T hopes to delight your senses with our ¡SenSPAcional! Spa spotlights on pages 30 and 31 as well as pass on the travel bug by spotlighting Goliad, Texas. This small town is full of rich Hispanic history that is sure to thrill any history buff (pages 42-43). In our Gulf Coast Meeting Destinations feature we are taking a closer look at New Orleans, Louisiana and its’ rich history and culture (pages 36-37). This issue of Quince magazine features the Mardi Gras themed quinceañera of Jessica Emely Ordones Ramos from Houston, Texas who gives us a personal account of her special day. ¡Saludos! María de la Luz González Editor

PUBLISHER GVR Public Relations Agency, Inc.

HispanicMeetingsTravel.com www.gvragency.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF 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, Anaheim Marriott, Austin CVB, Brand USA, The Catholic Diocese of Corpus Christi, Texas, The Catholic Diocese of Victoria, Texas, The City of Goliad, Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, Margaret Gonzalez, Maria Gonzalez, Steven Gonzalez, The Goliad County Chamber of Commerce, Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB, The Handbook of Texas Online, Hilton Worldwide, Hotel Esencia, Kissimmee CVB, Las Vegas CVA, Lone Star Junction, Meliá Hotels International, New Orleans Metropolitan CVB, Dr. Farid Noie, Presidio La Bahia, San Antonio CVB, San Fernando Cathedral, The Sons of Dewitt Colony, Talking Stick Resort, Texas Historical Commission, Texas State Library and Archives Commission, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, U.S. Travel Association, The White House Office of the Press Secretary PHOTOGRAPHY Albuquerque CVB, Anaheim Marriott, Austin CVB, Change Magazine, The City of Goliad, DigPicPhoto, Dallas CVB, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Esencia Estate, Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, Her View Photography by Darlene Hildebrandt, Jean-Paul Gisclair and NewOrleansOnline.com, Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB, Hilton Worldwide, Kissimmee CVB, Las Vegas CVA, Meliá Hotels International, MGM Resorts International, Rosa Gloria Ordones, San Antonio CVB, San Fernando Cathedral, Talking Stick Resort, Official White House Photos by Pete Souza ADVERTISING SALES OFFICE GVR Public Relations Agency 2600 South Shore Blvd., Suite 300 League City, Texas 77573 Telephone - 281-245-3330 Fax - 281-668-9199 WEB PAGE www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com WEB MASTER - Margil Villarreal Hispanic Meetings & Travel ISSN #1527-8387 is owned and published by the GVR Public Relations Agency, Inc., at 2600 South Shore Harbor Blvd., Suite 300, League City, Texas 77573 C 19992010 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.

industrybriefs N E W * F R E S H * P R O G R E S S I V E

Hilton Worldwide Announces Name of First Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Latin America Waldorf Astoria Panama is Set to Open this Year and Now Accepting Reservations for 2013

ilton Worldwide has announced the official name of its first Waldorf Astoria hotel in Latin America – Waldorf Astoria Panama. Formerly known as The Panamera, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the new designation brings the distinguished brand name to the forefront, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to the service and hospitality that are synonymous with the name Waldorf Astoria. Waldorf Astoria Panama is on schedule to open this year and is now accepting reservations for 2013 with rates starting from $219* per night. “The Waldorf Astoria name is known throughout the world as representing the best in luxury and hospitality,” commented Danny Hughes, senior vice president, Caribbean, Mexico and Latin America, Hilton Worldwide. “Placing the brand prominently at the front of the hotel name reinforces our commitment to deliver unparalleled service and quality at this first ever Waldorf Astoria hotel in Latin America.” Located steps away from Calle Uruguay, in the heart of the entertainment area, Waldorf Astoria Panama is approximately 25 minutes from Tocumen International Airport (PTY) and two blocks from the city center and financial district. Within walking distance of Cinta Costera, one of Latin America’s best running and walking trails overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the luxury hotel is just 20 minutes from the Panama Canal and 10 minutes from the historic center known as Casco Viejo. Featuring 248 guest rooms and luxury residences, Waldorf Astoria Panama will 10 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

boast an exquisite elegance displayed throughout the hotel’s public areas and accommodations. Rooms will be tastefully designed featuring the finest linens and amenities, including spacious marble bathrooms with walk in rain showers. The property will also offer an array of recreational facilities including a 2,000-square-foot fitness center by Life Fitness, a 2,000-squarefoot spa and an outdoor swimming pool with mosaic gold tiles. For the perfect meeting environment, the hotel will feature Level 5, a multi-event venue for meetings and social gatherings where Manhattan penthouse design blends with a trendy Latin American ambiance. The more than 3,500 square feet of meeting space includes three multi-purpose meeting rooms and a ballroom, complemented by a versatile business center where guests can access a variety of services. Featuring four distinct restaurants and bars, Waldorf Astoria Panama, will tempt guests with Peacock Alley, a sophisticated and intimate lobby bar; Ginger, an authentic and exotic lounge and sushi bar that incorporates ginger in its Asian specialty menu; Bungalow Terrace & Pool Bar, a welcome oasis in a relaxing poolside atmosphere; and Brasserie Brillo, a casual all day dining restaurant perfect for a fresh meal made with

local ingredients. At Waldorf Astoria Panama guests will experience True Waldorf Service. Under this new service initiative, a personal concierge is assigned to each qualified guest and acts as their primary contact, before, during and – an industry first – after a stay, to guarantee every want and request is met. The hotel will also participate in Hilton HHonors®, the only guest rewards program that allows members to earn Points & Miles® for the same stay and redeem points for free nights with No Blackout Dates at more than 3,800 hotels worldwide. Travelers looking for luxury accommodation in Panama City can now make reservations at the Waldorf Astoria Panama by visiting www.waldorfastoriapanama.com or calling 1-800-WALDORF. About Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts Waldorf Astoria is Hilton Worldwide’s luxury brand of landmark hotels, with each one as singular and timeless as the brand’s namesake, The Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York. From classic elegance to modern grandeur, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts each represent worldly sophistication and unparalleled guest service.

he United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) is proud to announce the grand opening of a new regional office in Dallas, Texas. This office, the first of its kind for the organization, is located in the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau (DCVB), which serves as the official sales and marketing arm for the city dedicated to attracting conventions and visitors to Dallas. "As the top visitor destination in the state with a diverse population base and a strong business reputation, Dallas is the perfect location for the USHCC's first regional office," said Phillip Jones, DCVB President and CEO. "We've collaborated on many initiatives, including the 2010 national conference held in Dallas, and we look forward to a long, mutually beneficial partnership.â&#x20AC;? Dallas is ranked 3rd in the nation in terms of highest concentration of Fortune 500 company headquarters. The Dallas metro-plex is home to various USHCC corporate partners including: American Airlines, AT&T, BNSF Railways, Comerica Bank, ExxonMobil, FedEx, Frito-Lay, Moneygram International, Rent-A-Center and 7-Eleven. The Dallas economy is the sixth largest in the United States, with a 2010 gross metropolitan product of $374

Waldorf Astoria Panama Continued From Page 10

From sumptuous spas and culinary excellence to world-class golf, each hotel & resort offers the exquisite accommodations and signature accoutrements that define refinement and sophistication. Discover Waldorf Astoria by visiting www.waldorfastoria.com. About Hilton Worldwide Hilton Worldwide is the leading global

billion and a thriving Hispanic population. "The vision for this regional office is to extend the USHCC's presence as the premiere organization representing the voice of Hispanic business in America. An office in Dallas will allow the USHCC to quickly galvanize its resources for the benefit of our partners." says USHCC President and CEO Javier Palomarez. "We anticipate great successes from this office and look forward to opening more like it in key cities across the country." "The selection process for the new home of the regional office was an extensive one," explains USHCC Chairman Nina Vaca. "There were several cities that were great contenders for this office, but Dallas topped the list in nearly every category. We look forward to building new relationships in the city and strengthening existing ones. The welcome from our friends and partners has been overwhelming and we are happy to call Dallas our 2nd home." About the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: Founded in 1979, the USHCC actively promotes the economic growth and development of Hispanic entrepreneurs and represents the interests of over 3 million Hispanic-owned businesses in the United hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and midpriced hotels. For 93 years, Hilton Worldwide has offered business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. The company is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands. Its brands are comprised of more than 3,800 hotels and timeshare properties, with 630,000 rooms in 88 countries

States that combined generate in excess of $465 billion annually. It also serves as the umbrella organization for more than 200 local Hispanic chambers and business associations in the United States and Puerto Rico. For more information, visit www.ushcc.com. About Dallas: Dallas is a destination that inspires big ideas. As the No. 1 visitor destination in Texas, the Dallas area offers the best shopping in the Southwest, a cutting-edge culinary scene led by nationally acclaimed celebrity chefs, 70,000 hotel rooms, ranging from luxury to boutique, and more than 200 golf courses. The city boasts the largest contiguous urban arts district in the U.S. with five cultural venues designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects. In addition, the Dallas metropolitan area is the only one in the Southwest to host teams representing five major professional sports leagues, including the legendary Dallas Cowboys. The Dallas area is also the largest film and television production center in Texas and the location of the Dallas Film Commission. For additional information about the city, see www.visitdallas.com. and include Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages the world-class guest reward program Hilton HHonorsÂŽ. Visit www.hiltonworldwide.com for more information.

www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 11

industrybriefs

United States Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce To Open Regional Office In Dallas, Texas

industrybriefs

Win a fall getaway to the 2012 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® “Blaze a Trail” to the world’s largest hot air ballooning event

ave you ever imagined what it might be like to float in a hot air balloon? Now is your opportunity to experience the lighter-than-air feeling. Register now to win a trip to Albuquerque, the "Hot Air Balloon Capital of the World" for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®.

This year, the theme of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® is "Blaze a Trail," highlighting the sense of adventure at the world’s largest ballooning event. What began in 1972 with only 13 balloons launching from a mall parking lot has grown to more than 500 balloons floating above central New Mexico for nine days. This year the festival takes place October 614 and marks the 41st time that pilots, visitors and volunteers from around the world have gathered to enjoy the Albuquerque sky filled with spectacularly colored and playfully shaped hot air balloons. Check out our hot air ballooning Pinterest board for inspiration. Fall is a beautiful time to visit Albuquerque due to comfortable weather with warm, sunny days and cool, crisp morning and evening hours. The city is filled with the delicious aroma of fresh green chiles roasting at stores, farm stands and growers markets. This year, Hotwire.com® ranked Albuquerque one of the "Top 10 Value Cities in the U.S." Visitors benefit from the city’s 12 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

affordability at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® with ticket prices as low as $8 for adults, and free admission for kids under 12; or get a five-pack of admission tickets for just $35.

Balloon Fiesta Sweepstakes

Enter through September 16th to win a trip for two to the awe-inspiring Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® October 9-12 with a $3,000-value get-

away: • Three nights stay at the Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North • Hot air balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders, Inc.® Hot Air Balloon Company on October 10th • Three days admission to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® with VIP access to the Gondola Club Hospitality Suite • Two tickets to Disney’s The Lion King Broadway Musical at Popejoy

Hall on Thursday, October 11th • Admission to the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum • Two official Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® jackets • Rental car from Payless Car Rental • $200 Visa Card to be used for airfare, gas or shopping Visit www.ItsATrip.org/BalloonFiesta2012 to enter the sweepstakes. Don’t miss the chance to visit in case you don’t win - book your fall getaway now! Visit www.ItsATrip.org for discounts, travel getaway packages plus information about Albuquerque and the special events taking place during the spectacular fall season. Follow the buzz on social media: Twitter: @see_albuquerque Facebook: VisitAlbuquerque Pinterest: #VisitABQ Hashtags: #BalloonFiesta and #VisitABQ

TEXAS MEETING DESTINATIONS – SAN ANTONIO

San Antonio: America’s Most Historic City

Each year thousands of Americans and visitors from throughout the world travel to San Antonio. Most come to experience the famed River Walk and to visit the “Shrine” of Independence the historic Alamo. The chapel of the Alamo Mission is known as the "Shrine of Texas Liberty”. Some of the visitors will stroll through the Alamo grounds, visit the book store and marvel at the old structure. Few will actually explore the history of the Alamo. The history of the Alamo does not begin with the famous battle that took the lives of several hundred men who took refuge behind the Alamo walls to fight for independence from Mexico. Historians have written about the siege of the Alamo and the brave men who died there. Most recently, some Historians have begun to present a very different accounting of that era as much of early history of San Antonio actually began with the building of the San Fernando Cathedral located about a mile and a half from the Alamo shrine. For starters, the San Fernando Cathedral was named for King Ferdinand III of Castile, Spain who ruled in the 13th century. A statue of King Ferdinand can be found when you enter the church from the Plaza de las Islas (Main Plaza) in front of the San Fernando Cathedral. The Cathedral was built by settlers from the Canary Islands, and for this reason the interior includes a beautiful shrine for the Virgin of Candelaria, the patroness of the Canary Islands and a similar shrine for the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico. At the front of the Cathedral you can find the true marker which is the “Center” point for the establishment of San Antonio de Bexar. Founded in 1731 it is the oldest, continuously functioning religious community in the State of Texas. And for

all of its more than 281 years, it has been serving the people of the Archdiocese and San Antonio.

San Fernando began on March 9, 1731 when sixteen original Canary Islander families who founded the Villa de San Fernando, now the City of San Antonio, were welcomed by Captain Juan Antonio de Almazan in the name of King Phillip V of Spain. Their arrival was a result of a recommendation of the Council of the Indies that a permanent civil settlement in the remote territory of Texas be established to prevent possible incursion of the French. Thus began "La Villa de San Fernando." Few people know about the original families who risked their lives to make the long journey to the “New World” with the promise of land grants issued by the King of Spain. Those original families and their descendants would be recognized in perpetuity as “Royals” by Spain. The names of the original families can be found in the Bexar County Spanish Archives with records from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Spanish Archives opened in March 2006 and has become a valuable resource for people seeking a better understanding of Texas life in its early days. The facility contains more than 20,000 books and documents, including: • Original Spanish and Mexican land grants • Wills and estates • Decrees • Maps • Mission records • Cattle brands • Jail records • Voting records, including those from the first elections of the Republic of Texas • Minutes from the first commissioners court meetings • Marriage licenses and other records of many of the state’s founding families

The Old Spanish Missions

In 1793, the Alamo, Mission San Antonio de Valero, was secularized and closed as a church. Its' people became members of San Fernando. The total population at the time was just over 1,000. The next year the other four missions in the area, San Jose, Concepcion, Espada, and Capistrano were also secularized and their lands divided among the Indians. In 1824 Missions Concepcion, San Jose, and Espada were made a part of the San Fernando parish. The Missions were an integral part in the establishment of Texas (Tejas) in the early 18th century. - Continued on Page 16

14 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

TEXAS MEETING DESTINATIONS – SAN ANTONIO San Antonio: Continued from Page 14

Early 1800's and The Battle of the Alamo

Zebulon Pike visited San Fernando in 1808 as he was leading the exploration of the lands of the Louisiana Purchase. During the 1810 - 1820 War for Mexican Independence several battles occurred in San Antonio and many of the fallen soldiers were buried at the church. In 1822, the pastor of the parish, Father Refugio de la Garza, was sent as a delegate to the first Congress of Mexico. James Bowie married Ursula de Veramendi at San Fernando in 1831. The Battle of the Alamo in 1836 began after Mexican General Santa Ana raised the flag of "no quarter" from the tower of the church. In the back of the cathedral today there is a sarcophagus or marble coffin on which is inscribed a notice that the remains of the defenders of the Alamo are buried there. Colonel Juan Seguin, who took control of San Antonio after Texas won independence, was purported to have buried the remains under the sanctuary railing of the old church. In 1936, during renovation work, a box of charred bones, nails, and shreds of uniforms was unearthed at that spot. Historians have argued since then about the validity of the claim, but the marble coffin with the remains has been visited by thousands of people since that time.

Late 1800's

The cornerstone of the new addition to San Fernando was laid in 1868. The eastern wall, including the original tower, the front of the church, the choir loft and baptistery were torn down to make room for the French Gothic building which is now the main body of the church. This work was completed in 1873 in preparation for the naming of San Antonio as a diocese by Pope Pius IX in 1874 with San Fernando as its' cathedral.

Bishops and Archbishops

The first bishop, Anthony Dominic Pellicer, is buried under the head of the main aisle of the church. In 1926 the Church of San Antonio was named an archdiocese with Arthur Jerome Drossaerts as its first archbishop. San Fernando was blessed as a metropolitan cathedral, or the official church of an archbishop. Former archbishop, José H. Gomez, STD, was installed in 2005. 16 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Pope visits San Fernando

Various church and civic dignitaries have visited the Cathedral over its long history. Pope John Paul II prayed and spoke to students in religious formation at San Fernando on September 13, 1987. President Lyndon Johnson visited in 1966. Several Cardinals have presided at liturgy in the church, beginning in 1887 when James Cardinal Gibbons of Baltimore preached at a solemn High Mass. Since then, presidents, politicians, ambassadors, governors and other leaders have been a part of the history of San Fernando.

Living History

San Fernando's living history is its people. Over 5,000 participate at weekend Masses each week of the year. Over 900 baptisms, 100 weddings, 110 funerals, and countless other services are performed each year. Symphonies, concerts, and television specials are but a few of the special events held in the cathedral regularly. Hundreds of people enter the church daily to pray, visit, light a candle, or follow various devotional traditions. Tour Buses arrive constantly. Each person is a part of the story of this magnificent place and a tribute to its enduring presence as the spiritual center of San Antonio. The cathedral is also known as the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria y Guadalupe and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is notable as the oldest cathedral in the United States.

Self Guided Tours

You can purchase a guidebook at the “Los Padrecitos” Gift Shop. This self-guided tour booklet explains in detail the highlights of the Cathedral, the artwork, and the grounds. You determine your own pace as you walk through the newly restored Cathedral.

Group Tours

The docent-led walking tour lasts about forty-five minutes to an hour and allows for a detailed introduction to the art, history, and architecture of San Fernando Cathedral. A wonderful personal experience for your family, club, or organization, private group tours are available by reservation only. Guided tours are free, but require a minimum of 15 participants. To schedule your own private guided tour, please call the Historical Centre Foundation at (210) 576-1365 or you can submit your request online to hcfed@sfcathedral.org. Cathedral Location: 115 Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

TEXAS MEETING DESTINATIONS – GALVESTON

LANDRY’S GALVESTON PLE ASURE PIER

The new Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is bringing a new standard of waterfront fun to the Gulf Coast. The $60 million destination boasts a theme park of family attractions, with rides, games of chance and skill, entertainment, great food venues and retail shops. The Pier developed by Tilman Fertitta, sole owner, chairman and CEO of Landry’s, is 120 feet-wide and 1,130 feet-long, thrusts boldly into the Gulf of Mexico from 25th Street at the famous Galveston Seawall, welcoming guests for dining, rides, games and entertainment throughout the year. Rides from thrilling to gentle line the long Pier perimeter, creating an exciting sensation of being suspended above the water.

THRILLS GALORE

Pirate’s Plunge Log Flume promises to thrill and chill you on warm days when your flume splashes 22 feet and 40 feet into cool, fresh water. Carousel gives a beautiful, cheery greeting to guests as they enter the Pier’s Midway. In fact, this classic double-decker temptation to ride has horses, chariots or sea creatures galloping right in the Midway. Revolution Up, down AND around. How fast? Try less than seven seconds a revolution! And it revolves you out OVER THE WATER? Rock N’ Roll has a retro glitter style that would make Elvis blush. Climb in your car and ride backwards, forwards and around to the music. Cyclone coaster loops 60 feet into the air rotates passengers forward and backward, while the horizon does flip-flops. Sea Dragon is a swinger with an ocean view. First it swings its 10 rows of riders up, up, up 50 feet over the Pier, then takes them down and back up, over the water.

Gulf Glider is a colorful classic swing carousel, with single and double seats that swing while you rotate and tilt. Pier Pileup Bumper Cars let you channel those Interstate 45 aggressions into a million laughs in antique and classic bash-‘em vehicles. This is actually two rides: One for kids, with smaller cars, another for adults. Similar to most of the rides at family-focused Pleasure Pier, parents and their children can ride together the big cars. Texas Tea Cups is another Midway classic, fun for adults and kids, especially together. Big Wheelin’ knows little kids like big trucks. Smaller kids can ride with an adult, bigger kids on their own in this safely circling convoy. Frog Hopper gets its name from, well, hopping. It takes a load of kids up, and then – wait for it drops them, not too far, but when they don’t expect it. And then, whoa, drops them again. Sky Shooter at rest looks like a huge blue and orange spider napping. Then it wakes

and goes wild, spinning its 10 captive vehicles while taking them up and down, round and round, even out over the ocean!

SNACKS TO FINE DINING

Texas’ first Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. features delectable seafood dining. Its food-to-go option, Gump on the Run, is located alongside. Recognized for outstanding seafood, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. makes shrimp the star, offering 19 different preparations. The menu also offers an exciting variety of fish entrees, crisp salads, fun children’s meals, creative desserts and award winning ribs. The Pier also offers several quick service food and beverage options for choices such as hamburgers, hot dogs, corndogs, sausage on a stick, chicken fingers, cotton candy, pretzels, pizza and much more. For additional information and hours of operations for the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, please visit www.pleasurepier.com or call 855-789-7437. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 17

TEXAS MEETING DESTINATIONS – AUSTIN

INTERACTIVE IN AUSTIN: Texas’ capital city comes up as a tech-savvy meetings destination

Austin is known for its music scene, capitalcity attractions, and one annual event in particular: the SXSW Music, Film and Interactive Conferences and Festivals. SXSW Interactive has become known as the world's leading forum for education and innovation in web development, social media and gaming. Twitter, Foursquare and Gowalla, Foodspotting, and GroupMe have all been launched at SXSW in the past five years. The success of SXSW Interactive - and the fact that these Internet pioneers have launched their products at SXSW - is a testament to Austin's reputation as a tech destination; it's not just any city that could support the demands of SXSW Interactive, and it's not any community that embraces such innovation. Home to offices for Dell, Google, Facebook, Gowalla, Homeaway and more, Austin is a hub for interactive and web-based businesses. The Austin community is made up of consistently engaged government and education professionals, students, outdoor enthusiasts, artists and tech-savvy early adopters. And Scarborough Research named Austin the #1 market in the nation for bloggers and readers of blogs. Add to that 6,000 downtown hotel rooms and

Austin Rankings: Austin continues to gain favorability as one of the nation's top travel • • • • • • •

destinations. Check out some of what leading publications and research firms are saying:

Travel + Leisure ranks Austin among the top 3 of America's Techiest Cities. (January 2012) Lucky Magazine names Austin among the 25 best cities for shopping. (February 2012) Portfolio.com names Austin the #1 city for young professionals. (June 2011) Men's Health ranks Austin #8 among the top 10 socially-networked cities (March 2011) PayScale, Inc. ranks Austin 2nd among cities an IT startup "hot spot." (January 2011) The Atlantic names Austin among the world's 30 most dynamic cities. (December 2010) Austin is the sixth safest city among those with 500,000 or more residents, according to a report by CQ Press. (November 2010) • CNN's Money.com ranks Austin the 6th Smartest City in America (October 2010) a robust wi-fi network in the city's hotels and the Austin Convention Center (a network designed to accommodate the challenging needs of SXSW Interactive), and Austin is perfectly positioned to service meeting groups seeking exceptional wi-fi access and top-notch technology amenities, year-round. The Austin CVB works with groups via social media outlets including Facebook (Meet Austin), Twitter (@MeetAustin), Flickr (Visit Austin, Texas) and YouTube (Visit Austin, Texas channel). The Bureau maintains an online Convention Services toolkit for planners to immediately download collateral, email templates and photos. Most recently, ACVB launched a partnership with the Austin American-Statesman, the city's daily newspaper, to provide visitors with a new online resource: the "Like a Local" blog, which brings together the unique perspectives of the

18 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Austin CVB (AustinTexas.org), the Statesman, and the locals that contribute, providing

a comprehensive point of view for travelers.

For more information about hosting meetings

in Austin, visit www.austintexas.org/meet-

ing_professionals.

Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau 301 Congress Avenue, Ste. 200 Austin, TX 78701 1-800-926-ACVB

www.austintexas.org Austin Convention Center 500 E. Cesar Chavez Street Austin, Texas 78701 512-404-4000

www.austinconventioncenter.com

INDUSTRY PROFILES | CVB EXECUTIVE

Alfredo H. Gonzalez

Vice President of Tourism Sales & International Business Development

Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau lfredo H. Gonzalez has served as Vice President of Tourism Sales and Interna-

tional Business Development for the

Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors

Bureau since 2004, after joining the organization

as head of the International Sales Department in 2001.

His responsibilities include overall direction of

the CVBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s international sales efforts targeting

domestic and international tour operators, whole-

salers and retail travel agents; representing the destination at leading trade shows; supervising

sales missions in target markets; and designing

and marketing innovative vacation package programs for sale by tour operators. He also oversees

efforts to help generate additional traffic to and

from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport through effective partnerships with international and domestic airlines.

Prior to joining the GFLCVB, Gonzalez was

Director of Latin America Sales for Concord

Resort in Orlando, which he joined in 1998. Lat-

er he was chosen to launch an international sales

program for Central Florida Investmentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; time-

share resorts.

From 1995 to 1998, Gonzalez held the position

of Director of Sales for Bancor International, a

Miami-based travel wholesaler.

Gonzalez holds a degree in psychology from

the University of Florida. He is currently an active member of the board of directors of Skal International, Miami Chap-

ter, and of the international marketing committee of Visit Florida. He also has served on the board of directors for the

Academy of Travel and Tourism in Broward County, Florida. 20 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

HM&T talked with Mr. Alfredo Gonzalez and asked him about himself, his career and the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau.

HM&T – Tell us about yourself. AG – I was born in Los Angeles, California. My mother is Colombian and my father was Mexican American. When I was 4 years old we moved back to Colombia, where I stayed until the end of my high school years at The British School.

HM&T – When did you return to the U.S.? AG – I returned to the U.S. to attend college in 1977. I first arrived in New York, but by 1979 I decided to go south and ended up in Gainesville, Florida, where I went to the University of Florida.

HM&T – What was it like living in Gainesville, Florida? AG – While attending classes I worked as a waiter and bartender. I enjoyed serving the public and in a way it was the beginning of my career in the hospitality industry.

HM&T – What was your major at the University? AG – Psychology. Having a background in psychology helps me to work with the public.

HM&T – After graduation, did you change jobs? AG – Yes, I headed to Miami and it was there I decided to stay in the service industry. After spending some time in Miami I decided to go to Orlando where I worked at the Airport Marriott Hotel for 3 ½ years, first in front office operations before moving to housekeeping and then into sales.

HM&T – What was your first sales job? AG – My first sales job was with the Concord Resorts, which allowed me to travel the world and attend trade shows like the World Travel Market in Europe. HM&T – Tell us about your job at Bancor. AG – When I worked at Bancor I was instrumental in expanding the company into Latin America. The position allowed me to travel to Brazil for the first time and offered many opportunities in the industry, which I really enjoyed.

HM&T – When did you join the Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB? AG – It was 1998 and I quickly learned how important it was to work with the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and the major cruise port of Port Everglades. To increase travel to Broward County, you first need to get people to travel to Greater Fort Lauderdale. To do this, we needed to provide connections with the major airlines and the cruise industry.

HM&T - What special skills do you have that help you to do your work for the CVB? AG – My ability to understand people and appreciate their culture and language. I speak English, Spanish and Portuguese and this helps me to reach out to people.

HM&T – Who has been most helpful to accomplish your goal to increase travelers to Fort Lauderdale? AG – I would have to say that Ed Nelson, Director of Marketing at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has been most helpful in understanding what we need to do to increase travelers to Greater Fort Lauderdale. And of course my colleagues at the Bureau.

HM&T – Does the CVB have a Department for International Markets? AG –I have two people who help me daily to implement our goals to increase travel to Greater Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, but we also have an office in London, Germany, Bogotá, Colombia and Buenos Aires that promote Greater Fort Lauderdale year-round.

HM&T – How has travel affected your family? AG – I have two daughters, the oldest is 21 and the youngest is 18, and as a result of my career my whole family has been able to travel to different destinations throughout the world. My youngest daughter is most likely to follow me into the Hospitality Industry.

HM&T – Do you have any special programs you want to share with our readers? AG – Yes, we have developed a program we call Vacation like a VIP that is designed to give visitors the red carpet treatment. Being offered from June 1 through to September 30, visitors can book a stay at any of the Lauderdale Luxe Collection properties with minimum 2 night stay and receive the following: (1) Room upgrade; (2) $100 resort credit to be applied to food & beverage, golf, spa, pool/beach cabana, water activities, kids programs: (3) Complimentary Valet Parking; (4) $25 American Express Gift Card; (5) Super Summer Savings 2-for-1 card, valued at $200. For more information on the Lauderdale Luxe Collection visit our web site at: http://www.sunny.org/visitors/vacationlikeavip/

HM&T – Is there any additional information you want to share? AG – Here is some information for your readers to learn more about the Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County area. Greater Fort Lauderdale describes all of Broward County, totaling 1,220 square miles (766,016 acres) and 31 municipalities including Coral Springs, Dania Beach, Davie, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Hallandale Beach, Hollywood, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, Plantation, Pompano Beach, Sunrise, Tamarac, Weston, West Park and Wilton Manors. Total Visitors for 2011: 11.1 million (includes international and domestic). International Visitors: 2.6 million (Latin American Visitors: 625,241). Total 2011 Visitor Expenditures: $9.01 billion (a 3.5% increase from 2010). Average Hotel Occupancy: 71%; Total Air Passenger Arrival/Departures at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport: 21, 249,700

HM&T – This information is very impressive. You must be very proud of this accomplishment. AG – Yes, we are proud of our region and are excited to work with the new federal agency, BRAND USA, to promote travel to the US from Europe and South America. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 21

INDUSTRY PROFILES | CVB EXECUTIVE

Claribel Gutierrez

Sales Representative in Convention Sales Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority

Claribel Gutierrez is a Sales Representative in Convention Sales for the Las Vegas Convention and Visi-

tors Authority (LVCVA), where she has been employed for 11 years. Prior to her role in Convention Sales, Claribel had worked for the Leisure and International Sales

teams within the LVCVA.

The LVCVA's Convention

Sales department promotes Las

Vegas as the world's leading

destination for meetings, con-

ventions,

tradeshows

and

incentive programs by generat-

ing business opportunities for

the Las Vegas resort communi-

ty and providing exceptional

service to Las Vegas Conven-

tion Center and Cashman Cen-

ter customers.

Claribel was born in San

Jose, California and speaks

Spanish fluently. She currently

serves on the Board of the

Academy on Hospitality and

Tourism and is a member of

Las Vegas Hospitality Association (LVHA), Meetings Profes-

sionals International (MPI) and the International Association of

Hispanic Meeting Planners

(IAHMP).

22 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

INDUSTRY PROFILES | CVB EXECUTIVE

Sara Melendez-Davis, CDMP, CHSP

Senior Sales Representative, Kissimmee CVB

Sara Melendez-Davis, CDMP, CHSP, is the senior sales representative responsible for the specialty groups that find the options available among Kissimmeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tourism industry best fit their needs, including multi-cultural, faith-based and education markets. She brings to the Kissimmee CVB and to her clients more than 25 years of marketing, promotions and sales experience in a variety of industries to include hospitality and music entertainment. A veteran of marketing, sales, promotion and publicity in the music industry, she has spent her career promoting and selling, including running a successful communications company, working in sales, communications and marketing for companies such as MCA Records, Columbia Records and others. Sara is bi-lingual and bi-cultural, and is a Certified Hospitality Sales Professional. She also has earned distinction as a Certified Diversity Meeting Professional from the International Association for Hispanic Meeting Professionals. This masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level program covers such topics as cultural sensitivity, accessibility, international protocol and creating diversity-aware educational programs. It distinguishes holders as professionals with a high level of experience, skill and knowledge in this field and those with an understanding of how best to meet the needs of Hispanic meeting planners. To learn more about meeting in Kissimmee and how you can qualify for a $1000 savings on your master account see MeetInKissimmee.com or email Sara at SMelendez@visitkissimmee.com. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 23

COVER STORY

PRESIDENT OBAMA'S NATIONAL TRAVEL & TOURISM STRATEGY

resident Obama’s Administration has launched a national strategy to increase the number of international visitors in the United States to 100 million annually, and $250 billion in spending, by 2021, and restore the USA's ranking as the #1 international destination in the world. Since even before the passage of the Travel Promotion Act in 2010, the Administration has been focused on the importance of travel and tourism. The President recognized the importance of developing the travel and tourism industry and issued an Executive Order last January that created a new inter-agency Task Force co-chaired by the Secretaries of Commerce and the Interior and charged them with developing a National Travel and Tourism Strategy to increase both domestic and international travel throughout the United States, with the goal of increasing the United States’ market share of worldwide travel. Former US Department of Commerce Secretary John Bryson and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced the Administration’s National Tourism and Travel Strategy – delivering on President Obama’s call in January for a national strategy to promote domestic and international travel opportunities throughout the United States. The National Travel and Tourism Strategy laid out a blueprint for reaching that goal by focusing on five areas: • Promoting the United States • Enabling and enhancing travel and tourism to and within the United States • Providing world-class customer service and visitor experiences • Coordinating across government • Conducting research and measuring results It sets out a goal of increasing American jobs by attracting and welcoming 100 million international visitors annually by the end of 2021, more than a 50 percent increase over the number expected this year. These international visitors would spend an

President Barack Obama looks at the Grand Canyon in Arizona on Aug. 16, 2009. (White House Photo by Pete Souza) 24 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

estimated $250 billion per year, creating jobs and spurring economic growth in communities across the country. “This Administration will continue to do everything we can to support travel and tourism– our number one services export –which will help support millions of American jobs,” Secretary Bryson said. “I am proud of our work on the National Strategy, a product of a strong private-public partnership, which will make the U.S. even more welcoming to visitors and reinforce our message to the world: the United States is open for business.” “As our nation’s economy continues to gain strength, tourism - especially international tourism - holds the promise of being an economic engine for the country,” Secretary Salazar said. “These recommendations will help make the United States a more attractive travel destination for people around the globe, and I look forward to working with our partners across government and industry to turn this strategy into action.” "Tens of millions of tourists from all over the world come and visit America every year. They stay in our hotels, they eat at our restaurants, they visit our attractions, and they help create jobs. At a time when too many Americans are still looking for work, we need to make it easier for more people to visit this country and keep our economy growing,” said President Barack Obama. The strategy includes facilitating entry to the United States through making visa processing more efficient and expanding the visa-waiver program, expanding the number of open skies agreements, and promoting travel to the US, once the most highly desired destination among international travelers, through a Brand USA public-private partnership. At the same time, the administration is fostering domestic travel, encouraging Americans to see more of America the Beautiful, by expanding distribution through private vendors of the America the Beautiful pass which provides unlimited access to national sites and improving access to information about national sites, parks and attractions through the Recreation.gov database.

COVER STORY

The America the Beautiful National Parks/Federal Recreation Lands Pass

1. What is the America the Beautiful - the National

Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass or "Inter-

agency" Annual Pass? An $80.00 Annual Pass that

provides access to more than 2,000 recreation areas

managed by five Federal agencies, with up to 100% of

the proceeds being used to improve and enhance visitor

recreation services.

2. Who qualifies for the Annual Pass? Anyone 16

years or older may purchase the pass; children under 16

are always admitted free. Each Annual Pass can have up

to two "owners".

3. Where can I get an Annual Pass? PLEASE be sure to call a site and verify they are still issuing the passes

BEFORE you make a special trip to obtain a pass.

a. Passes may be obtained at hundreds of locations

throughout the country, including many Federal recre-

ation sites where they are accepted. See Site Locations

that issue the Annual Pass at http://store.usgs.gov/pass.

b. Annual Passes may also be obtained through USGS,

888-275-8747, option 1, or http://store.usgs.gov/pass.

President Barack Obama with Vice President Joe Biden and members of his administration.

About Brand USA

In 2010, President Obama successfully passed the Travel Promotion Act to spearhead the nation's first global marketing effort to promote the United States as a premier travel destination and communicate U.S. entry/exit policies and procedures. 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. Through its callto-action—DiscoverAmerica.com—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. In April, Brand USA, launched a $12.3-million campaign that invites visitors to "Discover America." A $14 charge on all incoming international visitors finances the program, according to the Los Angeles Times. The Walt Disney Company, Marriott and Best Western have all chipped in $1 million each in financing as well, Bloomberg reports. The campaign will also feature TV spots, billboards, magazine ads and online videos, appearing first in Canada, Japan and the UK, with Brazil and South Korea to follow. For information about exceptional and unexpected travel experiences in the United States, please visit Brand USA's consumer website at www.discoveramerica.com. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 25

COVER STORY A centerpiece of the Discover America multimedia marketing effort is a Rosanne Cash (Johnny Cash daughter) song called "Land of Dreams" that also features David Hidalgo, Steve Berlin and Bebel Gilberto. A music video for the track features visuals of wilderness landscapes, as well as Miami, New Orleans, San Francisco and New York's Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, Central Park, Times Square and still-underconstruction One World Trade Center. President Obama has called tourism "the number one service we export". His plan calls for an expansion of the state-funded Global Entry program, which allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers once they arrive in the U.S., as well as reduced times for visa approval for emerging countries like Brazil and China. The Global Entry program, which is being piloted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, enables certain frequent fliers to bypass long Customs lines in the U.S. by checking in with automated kiosks located at selected airports, including Chicago-O’Hare, Los Angeles International, Miami International, Washington-Dulles and New York-JFK. “Given the importance of the travel and tourism industry to the U.S. economy and job creation, a coordinated policy, consistent with protecting our national security, is needed to sup26 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

port a prosperous and secure travel and tourism industry in the United States,” Obama said in a statement. While the government launched the National Export Initiative and the Travel Promotion Act in 2010, which Obama said has helped make the “movement of goods and people across borders more secure and efficient,” he noted that “new initiatives are needed” to better “capitalize on the economic opportunities presented by a dynamic 21st century travel and tourism industry.” The Global Business Travel Association said the renewed focus on travel is key to help grow the economy, particularly since it forecast in its latest business travel index that spending on business travel will grow 4.6% in 2012. The GBTA says it hopes the expand program will help lead the way for an expansion of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Pre-Check program, which allows for expedited check-ins for domestic travelers in selected airports. The TSA program was launched last year and has already garnered significant backing from the more than 250,000 frequent fliers that have been screened. Obama also expressed an interest in reducing wait times for visas in countries that are emerging as key global business hubs with growing middle classes. The number of travelers

Result of the Travel Promotion Act

Oxford Economics estimates that the travel promotion program authorized by the Act could attract as many as 1.6 million new vis-

itors each year, generate as much as $4 billion in new visitor spend

ing annually and create 40,000 new U.S. jobs.

from China, Brazil and India is slated to grow by 135%, 274% and 50%, respectively by 2016, according to the U.S. Travel Association. A new task team appointed by the President will work to increase non-immigrant visa processing capacity in China and Brazil by 40% in 2012 and ensure that 80% of non-immigrant visa applicants are interviewed within three weeks of the application’s receipt. Obama said the task force, which will be comprised of several government agencies, will be responsible for recommending new policies and initiatives to promote both domestic and international travel through the U.S., while increasing the nation’s share of global travel spending and growing long-haul travel from Brazil, China and India. The government is also looking to expand its Visa Waiver Program, which allows 36 participating member countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for less than 90 days without obtaining a visa. “The steps the president has taken are significant and will boost travel to and within the United States, and will lead to new American jobs and gets our economy moving” said Roger Dow, president of US Travel Association. Acting Secretary Rebecca Blank joined business leaders from across the country at the White House Business Council American Economic Competitiveness Forum on Travel and Tourism to discuss the administration’s actions to help grow travel and tourism and support the millions of jobs associated with the industry. The Obama administration concludes that travel and tourism is a bright spot for the American economy, leading the recovery with growth that has outpaced the growth of the overall economy by almost 800 percent and on pace for another year of record high international visitors to the U.S.

Travel and tourism is one of America’s largest industries

(2011 data)

• Generated $1.9 trillion in economic impact, with $813 billion

spent directly by domestic and international travelers that spurred an additional $1.1 trillion in other industries.

• Directly generated $124 billion in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments.

• Each U.S. household would pay $1,055 more in taxes without the

tax revenue generated by the travel and tourism industry.

• Direct spending by resident and international travelers in the U.S.

averaged $2.2 billion a day, $92.8 million an hour, $1.5 million a

minute and $25,778 a second.

Travel and tourism is America’s largest services export

industry (2011 data)

• $152.4 billion in travel exports (including traveler spending in the U.S. and international passenger fare payments to U.S. carriers) and the…

• $110.5 billion in travel imports (including U.S. residents’ spend-

ing abroad and international passenger fares paid to foreign carriers) creates…

• $42 billion in balance of trade surplus for the U.S.

Travel and tourism is one of America’s largest employers (2011 data)

• Supported 14.4 million jobs, including 7.5 million directly in the travel industry and 6.9 million in other industries.

• $194.6 billion in travel-generated payroll for those employed directly in U.S. travel industry.

• 1 of every 9 U.S. non-farm jobs is created directly or indirectly

or is induced by travel and tourism.

• Travel is among the TOP 10 industries in 48 states and D.C. in terms of employment.

www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 27

COVER STORY

U.S. Travel & Tourism Statistics

COVER STORY

CREDITS

The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D. C. 20202 You may contact the President and First Lady at this address or any of their staff members Call the President PHONE NUMBERS Comments: (202) 456-1111 Switchboard: (202) 456-1414 Rebecca Blank Acting Secretary U.S. Department of Commerce 1401 Constitution Ave., N.W. Washington, DC 20230 Phone: 202-482-4883 Ken Salazar Secretary of the Interior U.S. Department of the Interior 1849 C Street, N.W. Washington DC 20240 Phone: (202) 208-3100 E-Mail: feedback@ios.doi.gov Roger Dow, President U.S. Travel Association 1100 New York Avenue, NW Suite 450 Washington, DC 20005 Phone: (202) 408-8422 E-Mail: feedback@ustravel.org Brand USA Headquarters 1725 Eye Street, NW, Eighth Floor Washington, DC 20006 Phone: (202) 536-2060 “Land of Dreams” is available for free download at DiscoverAmerica.com beginning at 9am EDT on April 23, 2012. The entire music video can be viewed at the Discover America YouTube site – http://www.YouTube.com/DiscoverAmerica. http://www.foxbusiness.com/travel/2012/01/19/industry-groups-tout-obamasrenewed-focus-on- travel 28 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

More U.S. Travel & Tourism Statistics

U.S. Overall World Market Share (the United States’ share of total international arrivals) has decreased 15.5% from 2000 to 2011. Today (2011) we have 6.4%, down from 7.5% in 2000. Since U.S. peak of 9.4% in 1992 to 2011, we are down 32.2%. Year

U.S. Share Int. Arrivals World Market to U.S. (Millions) 2000 7.5% 51.2 2001 6.9% 46.9 2002 6.2% 43.6 2003 6.0% 41.2 2004 6.0% 46.1 2005 6.1% 49.2

Year

U.S. Share Int. Arrivals World Market to U.S. (Millions) 2006 6.0% 51.1 2007 6.2% 56.0 2008 6.3% 58.0 2009 6.2% 55.0 2010 6.4% 59.7 2011 6.4% 62.3 Source: UNWTO, OTTI

Top International Arrivals 2011 (OTTI) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE Canada Mexico United Kingdom Japan Germany Brazil France South Korea People's Republic of China (excludes Hong Kong) Australia Italy Spain India Netherlands Venezuela Argentina Colombia Switzerland Sweden Ireland

NUMBER OF ARRIVALS 21,028,177 13,414,020 3,835,300 3,249,569 1,823,797 1,508,279 1,504,182 1,145,216 1,089,405

% CHANGE FROM 2010 5.3 -0.4 -0.4 -4.0 5.7 25.9 12.1 3.4 35.9

1,037,852 891,571 700,183 663,465 601,013 561,080 512,258 496,814 476,502 438,972 346,879

14.8 6.4 9.5 1.9 5.4 14.1 17.4 0.4 22.0 18.0 -3.8

International/Overseas Travel

• In 2011, U.S. welcomed 7.3 percent more overseas travelers than it did in 2000 – despite an extraordinarily weak U.S. dollar and an additional 38 million long-haul travelers worldwide (up 44%).

• International arrivals to the U.S. (including Canada/Mexico) increased 22% in 2011 to more than 62 million (over 2010). Overseas arrivals to the U.S. increased 7.3% to 28 million in 2011.

• Spending by lucrative international visitors grew 12.3% in 2011 (over 2010).

• Strength in international travel to U.S. is driven by increases from Canada and Mexico (up 43.4% and 26.6%, respectively, over 2000).

• Overseas visitors stay longer and spend more – avg. $4,300 when they visit U.S. (incl. intl. pax fares) - Canada & Mexico combined avg. spending: Less than $1,000 - Overseas (most recent): 17.0 avg. nights (2010 data, 2011 not yet available)

• Overseas arrivals represent 45% of total U.S. international arrivals, yet account for 78% of total international travelers spending in the United States (2011 data).

guesteditorial

AMERICA: Still The One

ately I have been hearing a lot of talk about how America is in decline, or how our “glory days” are behind us. There are those who believe China is gaining on us and nearly surpassing us as the world’s biggest economy and military power. A recent news media round table suggested that the United States should prepare for third place after India surpasses us in a few short years. I decided to check the validity of all these reports. The results astonished me. In almost every category I researched, the US stands out like a giant among midgets.

Fact: According to the International Monetary Fund, the US ranks first in the world’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product, the primary indicator used to gauge the health of a country’s economy) with nearly $15 trillion dollars. China ranked second with $5.7 trillion dollars (approx. one third of US GDP). Japan is third with $5.4 trillion and Germany with $3.3 trillion.

Fact: The entire world’s GDP (196 countries) was under $62 trillion dollars in 2010. That means the US economy accounts for nearly one fourth of the entire world’s GDP. It is also larger than the economies of China, Japan and Germany combined.

Fact: Despite all the economic hardships of the last few years, our economy still grew by 2.9%, which is the highest growth of any other country in 2010. Fact: US combat power is about three times that of second place China, and ten

B Y

D R .

F A R I D

N O I E

times that of tenth place Pakistan. Israel, India and Russia rank third through fifth. This ranking is based on how formidable a nation’s military is around their neighborhood, not on their success on various terrains away from home.

Fact: The US is the only nation ever to actually add real estate to our planet by creating the space station, NASA’s home away from home. And America has been very humble about allowing other nations to participate.

Now, let’s examine innovation and technology advancement. Just look around you.

The bulb over your head emits light thanks to the invention of American Thomas Edison.

The cell phone that you cannot live without is a third generation audio (and now video) telecommunication device invented by Alexander Graham Bell, an American.

The affordable car you drive and depend on was the original brain child of Henry Ford.

The airplane you use to travel the globe in just hours as opposed to months was invented by American brothers, Orville and Wilber Wright.

The first modern computer was invented at the University of Pennsylvania during World War II. They called it ENIAC.

Above all, the United States of America is the birth place of the modern

world’s Bill of Rights for every citizen. Not just a slogan, but an actual government of people, by the people, for the people. There is room for improvement, and things are not all rosy.

Our government should support the same rights that we enjoy when dealing with other nations. We could take the high road when dealing with totalitarian leaders of other nations and condemn all suppressive regimes, even if it affects our national interests. I believe the new reputation of integrity we would gain will more than compensate for any losses.

America is not faultless. We have our dark periods here and there. But no one person or community is perfect. That’s why each nation should be judged in totality, not by a single incident. According to my research, the United States of America is still the richest, strongest, and most innovative democratic nation in the world, by far. I would love to hear your feedback. You can email me at fn@drnoie.com.

Dr. Noie has been in private practice in the Houston Bay Area since 1996. He is a DIPLOMATE of Int’l Congress of Oral Implantologists, Fellow of Academy of General Dentistry, and Assoc. Fellow of American Academy of Implant Dentistry. He has completed his surgical training at New York University as well as Medical University of South Carolina, Temple University, and Wright State Uni“AMERICA: Still the One” originally versity School of Medicine. He completed his oral Anesthesiology training from University appeared in Change Magazine, April of Alabama at Birmingham. He is a member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. 2011. Re-printed with permission.

www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 29

¡SenSPAcional! Hotel Esencia’s Aroma Spa

First Organic Spa in the Riviera Maya Offers Easy DIY Mayan Spa Treatments

Extend Your “Spa-Cation” with Luxury Remedies from Hotel Esencia for the Ultimate In-Home Spa Experience

From holistic rituals to ancient Mayan recipes, Hotel Esencia’s eco-luxe Aroma Spa is offering easy DIY spa treatments for the spa enthusiast seeking an in-home escape into paradise. The first organic Spa in the Riviera Maya, Aroma’s eco-focus is evidenced throughout with organic, homemade products, an extensive herb garden, and native, chemical-free construction materials including walls colored with a taupe native mixture. Renowned for providing travelers an escape into the magical realism of the Mayan culture, Aroma celebrates native tradition with a signature Temezcal Mayan Sauna. The indigenous ritual involves a Temazcalera, a specially trained Mayan healer, assessing the needs of the guest’s body, mind and spirit

30 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

before selecting specific herbs to lay on scalding stones in an enclosed sauna, infusing the air with healing aromatherapy.

The in-home treatments offer simple antiaging solutions with quick and easy steps using fresh, organic ingredients for the serene feeling of a professional spa treatment. Pamper Yourself in the Mayan Tradition with Esencia’s DIY Treatments From a nourishing scrub to an anti-aging facial, Aroma is pleased to share ancient Mayan anti-aging and skin purifying treatments and tips to promote overall wellbeing. Treatments include:

Nourishing Hand and Foot Scrub

Ingredients: • 2 teaspoons of honey • 3 tablespoons sugar • Juice of ½ to 1 lemon (depending on size) Directions: 1. Mix the ingredients in a bowl 2. Gently exfoliate the skin with the scrub 3. Let the scrub sit on the skin for 5 minutes 4. Wash with water 5. Apply replenishing cream

Anti-Aging Facial

Ingredients: • 1 cup yogurt • 1 tablespoon of oats • 1 tablespoon honey • Splash of Rosewater (available at a pharmacy) Directions: 1. In a bowl mix the yogurt, honey and oats 2. Massage the mixture onto the face 3. Leave it on the skin for 5 minutes 4. Remove the mixture with cool water 5. Apply rose water with a cotton pad 6. Apply your favorite facial cream

One-ingredient Anti-Aging Solutions

Tomato: The sumptuous fruit helps to prevent wrinkles and reduce the appearance of existing ones. Directions: 1. Remove the seeds and peel 2. Grind the tomato in a bowl 3. Apply tomato on affected areas of your face 4. Leave it on for 15 minutes before removing it with fresh water. Olive Oil: The perfect product to bring out your skin’s youthful glow. Directions: 1. Massage the face with olive oil for a minute at night after cleansing 2. Remove excess with cotton Hotel Esencia is a luxury hotel estate along the best beach in the Riviera Maya, just 20 minutes from Playa del Carmen, Mexico. For more information about Hotel Esencia and its spectacular spa packages visit www.hotelesencia.com or call (877) 528-3490.

The Spa at Talking Stick features products made with culturally significant ingredients harvested from the community gardens for use in its’ treatments and services.

Your relaxation is Our Reward

The Spa at Talking Stick Resort – a 13,000 square foot, open-air spa located on the 14th floor – is the ultimate in world-class rejuvenation. With private rooms offering guests unparalleled views of the Valley and floorto-ceiling windows that can be opened during treatments, there’s simply no better place to relax and refresh. Enjoy a relaxation and serenity lounge, spacious steam room and a fully-equipped fitness facility. True to the heritage and traditions of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community,

In the spirit of ancient healing rituals, an expert’s touch will release stress and tension, rebalance and restore you to optimal well-being and reveal a full sensory experience that allows for complete relaxation. In each of its therapies, The Spa at Talking Stick incorporates specially crafted aromatic oils for the body, soothing pillows for the eyes and warm wraps for the feet and hands to moisturize and hydrate. Choose from the list of services offered: • Massage Therapies • Body therapies • Facials

• Nail Treatments

Seasonal Specials

Each month, The Spa at Talking Stick creates exclusive specials that make the most of the season and allow guests to experience the spa at a discounted rate. Learn more about the specials available now by visiting www.talkingstickresort.com. To make an appointment, call 480-8504065.

¡SenSPAcional! • The Spa at Talking Stick Resort

GIVE YOURSELF A LITTLE TSR

Special Feature Written by Margaret Gonzalez, Publisher, Hispanic Meetings & Travel Working with Convention and Visitor Bureaus and Destination Marketing Companies When talking with national non-profit associations or community organizations, it has always surprised me how little they take advantage of the services offered by Convention and Visitor Bureaus (CVBs) and Destination Marketing Companies (DMCs). For the most part they know little about them and therefore cannot adequately utilize the services a CVB offers, many of which are free of charge. Nearly every city in America has a Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, or “CVB,” as they’re often called. These organizations represent the hotels, restaurants, attractions and other businesses that make up the tourism and travel industries. And they employ teams of local travel experts who make it their mission to help convention planners, tour operators and group leaders put together great visits to their hometowns. CVBs are governed in different ways. Some are non-profit, nongovernment agencies that are funded by a local lodging tax. Some are membership organizations and some are attached to local governments. The best time to contact a CVB is while you are still deciding where to hold your meeting. Expect them to encourage your group to hold your meeting in their city. They will be happy to provide information to help you make your decision. Then, once you’ve chosen their area, take advantage of the many services the CVB offers. If you work for a nonprofit and do not have adequate staff to assist you with your meeting and you need planning support 32 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

the CVBs can be an extension of your team, saving you time and money. CVB’s want you to be successful and experience the best of their destination so you can return year after year.

pick the information you want highlighted for your group. By listing only the attractions that appear on your event agenda, you reduce miscommunication with your meeting attendees.

Establishing a relationship with a CVB and a DMC for your next meeting or conference includes:

• When your event is not as “attractive” for a hotel – perhaps because it is very space-intensive versus the total number of hotel rooms your group will use – your CVB can be your advocate and explain the value of your event in terms of profile for the destination, future business, etc.

• Contact the CVB in the city where you plan to hold a meeting or event. The CVB can act as your one point of contact to distribute your organizations Request for Proposal. Working with their members, the CVB can help distribute your RFP to local hotels, convention centers, restaurants, attractions and transportation companies as well as destination marketing companies and can act as your liaison. If you are not familiar enough with the city to select providers, CVBs can create a request for proposal (RFP) for you and submit it to prospective companies. They will also take your own RFP document and disseminate it to a preapproved list. • CVBs can assist in bolstering your meeting’s attendance through several promotional tools. When building your event’s Web site, you may need highresolution photos of the location. The CVBs can provide images as well as a video of accommodations and attractions. • Some CVBs will create a specific URL for your event which links to a welcome splash page with your group’s name. The custom page allows you to

• When you need to see a destination before you make your selection, your CVB can help with expenses – most have budgets for site inspections by qualified meeting planners also called buyers. • For larger events, many CVBs have coordinators to provide housing bureau services. This may include steering delegates to the right hotel room block, answering questions about leisure activities for the delegate’s family, etc. • Even if you have a smaller meeting and you are only bringing in employees from other locations, CVBs may provide you with electronic and hard copy materials or even a web site link to help heighten excitement and promote your event. • The CVB knows their city or destination best. They can help you find a “special” venue to help you reinforce your meeting’s objectives and make your event truly memorable.

• But the very top reason for working with CVBs is their services are FREE. It’s their job to promote their destination, and you reap the benefits! A Destination Management Company (DMC) is a professional services company possessing extensive local knowledge. Their expertise and resources may include specializing in the design and implementation of events, city tours, historic attractions, special activities and transportation and program logistics.

• Taking a group of people on a tour is no small task. A Destination Management Company (DMC) can help in providing local guides and transportation for tours and off-site activities like a Golf Tournament. • To succeed, group leaders must find interesting destinations and dining arrangements for each day of the trip, create itineraries that keep their travelers engaged and make sure everyone is having a good time along the way. DMC personnel are very familiar with the destination and can recommend places to eat and tours that can include presenting the history and importance of historical sites. • And although it can be daunting to make travel arrangements in a faraway city for groups of 30, 50 or more, the CVB can help make the process as

easy as possible. And the DMC can

assist you to make sure your group

will enjoy off site activities and can

suggest venues and entertainment to

enhance your meeting or event.

Working with a Convention and Visitor Bureau and Destination Management Company is perhaps the very

best way for meeting planners to build

great meetings and events. As you

begin working on your next domestic event take advantage of the services of

a CVB and DMC. Both love to work

with meeting planners and event plan-

ners for large and small events. Make them a part of your team!

specialfeature

• CVBs can provide suggestions for services well beyond hotels and attractions. These include: program speakers and entertainers; exhibit freight services; equipment rental for your onsite planner office; floral designers; car rental companies; foreign language translation services; and even babysitting services.

International Destination Spotlight

Meliá Hotels International Transforms Gran Meliá Cancun into Paradisus Cancun Resort

Fifth Property in the Luxury All-Inclusive Portfolio Indicative of Aggressive Growth Strategy for One of the World’s Leading Resort Companies Meliá Hotels International, one of the world’s largest resort hotel chains with more than 350 hotels in 35 countries on 4 continents, announced today the transformation of the Gran Meliá Cancun property into a luxury all-inclusive Paradisus resort, to be completed by November 15, 2012. The new Paradisus Cancun will provide a sophisticated answer to Cancun travelers’ requests and the evolving needs of the destination,

C a n c u n ,

M e x i c o

from EP to an allinclusive market, by offering a superior customer product that is traditionally not associated with allinclusive resort properties. In bringing its most successful brand to Cancun, Meliá Hotels International is cementing the brand’s foothold in Mexico and building on the blossoming reputation of its two new flagship properties that recently opened in Playa del Carmen. Paradisus Cancun will feature all the attributes of the ‘luxeclusive’ Paradisus brand; providing guests with “Pure Freedom” to indulge, escape and enjoy the 136 Royal Service Suites, 97 Family Concierge Suites, eight restaurants including signature beach front Gabi Club and exclusive new restaurant “Passion by Martin Berasategui” by Michelin Star chef Martin Berasategui. “Our Gran Meliá Cancun guests had been asking for more comprehensive all-inclusive options and higher-end family-focused and adults-only amenities, it was evident that the Cancun area was missing a true luxury allinclusive experience,” said Andre Gerondeau,

34 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Executive Vice President, Melia Hotels International. “Through our success of the Paradisus brand in the Caribbean and Mexico regions, we knew we had to bring our most successful brand to the area in order to offer a distinct experience that would set the property apart from the rest of the marketplace. With exciting new partnerships, such as “Passion by Martin Berasategui”, we are now able to provide an extraordinary product that had never previously been offered within the all-inclusive segment.” The Paradisus Cancun property will offer the elegance and amenities exclusive to only the most prestigious hotels,

The striking multi-pyramid architecture of Gran Meliá Cancun will remain, while a series of renovations and beautifications are planned to elevate the property to the high design standards of Paradisus resorts. Paradisus Resorts are elegantly designed with attention to every detail in mind. Spectacular architecture, world-class cuisine and premium service achieve the goal of allowing guests to experience ultimate relaxation in a stress-free and upscale environment, with the luxury of not once having to reach for a wallet. All properties reflect their surrounding environments and are set amid lush tropical gardens, chic restaurants, lavish suites, award-winning spas, pristine beaches and oversized, stylish swimming pools. About Paradisus Resorts Paradisus Resorts is an all-inclusive luxury resort brand owned and operated

destinationspotlight

set against the backdrop of one of the best beaches in the world. Resort amenities will include signature adultonly Royal Service program, Family Concierge program and Kid´s Club, four spectacular pools with swim up bars, eight restaurants featuring a variety of international cuisines, full service YHI Spa and Health Club, more than 10,000 square feet of meeting and convention space and a 9-hole par-3 golf course.

by Meliá Hotels International, (formerly Sol Meliá Hotels & Resorts) one of the world’s most successful hotel companies. The growing brand currently has two hotels in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic: Paradisus Palma Real and Paradisus Punta Cana and two resorts in Playa del Carmen Mexico: Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Perla (adults-only) and Paradisus Playa del Carmen La Esmeralda (for everyone). Boasting unique room categories and luxurious upgrade options such as the adults-only Royal Service and family-only Family Concierge, the resorts are ideal for a wide spectrum of guests including couples, family vacations, destination weddings and business travelers. The properties in Punta Cana each feature The Reserve at Paradisus, an exclusive resort-withina-resort concept where guests experience private check-in and stay in residential style accommodations, among numerous other services and amenities. Paradisus Resorts

will continue its growth with the opening of a brand-new property in Papagayo Bay, Costa Rica, scheduled to open in 2013. Follow Paradisus Resorts on Twitter, @Paradisus and Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/Paradisus.Res orts About Meliá Hotels International Meliá Hotels International was founded in 1956 in Palma de Mallorca (Spain) and is one of the world’s largest resort hotel chains, as well as Spain’s leading hotel chain. It currently provides more than 350 hotels and 87,000 rooms in 35 countries on 4 continents under its brands: Gran Meliá, Meliá, ME, Innside, Tryp by Wyndham, Sol and Paradisus. Its product and service portfolio is complemented by Club Meliá, the only vacation club operated by a Spanish company. In 2011, the family company founded by Gabriel Escarrer Juliá, that operated under the name "Sol Meliá" for decades, began a new stage in its development under the brand name that represents its present and its future: Meliá Hotels International.

www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 35

New Orleans a Historical Destination When you visit New Orleans you immediately understand it is a very special place and unlike any other destination in the United States. The Crescent City lingers on the threshold between the Old World and the New, between history and legend. A walk down the narrow streets at sunset reveals the ambiance that is New Orleans. Jazz streams out from the French doors that open to the night breezes and there is laughter and merriment among the people. Here you can get lost in another time where you can imagine what secrets this special place holds. In this little corner of the American South, where European traditions blend with Caribbean influences, the history is as colorful as the local architecture; the food is the stuff of legend. Haitian and African Creoles developed an exotic, spicy cuisine and were instrumental in creating jazz and Zydeco. Here the street names are French and Spanish and the Creole architecture comes in a carnival of tropical colors, and voodoo is a Caribbean import. The magic is irresistible. New Orleans is a city that celebrates its diverse culture. Here in the city known as the Big Easy they have a wonderful sounding saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;LAISSEZ LE BONS TEMPS ROULERâ&#x20AC;? -- LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL. A reminder of French heritage and a way of life that began three centuries ago. When Sieur de LaSalle explored the Mississippi in 1682, he claimed all lands for France and named the territory for King Louis XIV of France. The Louisiana Territory consisted of 828,000 square miles and extended from the Mississippi to the Rockies, and the Gulf of Mexico to Canada. Eventually, French, Spanish, English, Independent, Confederate and Union flags would all fly over Louisiana. In 1718, when Sieur de Bienville founded 36 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Gulf Coast Meeting Destinations Pencil drawing of New Orleans in 1857

a strategic port city five feet below sea level, near the juncture of the Mississippi and the Gulf of Mexico, it had to be reclaimed from a swamp. The new city, or ville, was named La nouvelle Orleans for Philippe, Duc d'Orleans, and centered on the Place d'Arms. Today it is known as Jackson Square and confined to the area known as the French Quarter or Vieux Carre (Old Square). The society that settled on the bend of the Mississippi was French in origin and at heart. Even so, in 1762, either because he lost a bet, or because the royal coffers were exhausted, King Louis XV gave Louisiana to his Spanish cousin, King Charles III. Spanish rule was relatively short -- lasting until 1800 -- but Spain would leave its imprint on the City. In 1788, the City went up in flames, incinerating over 800 buildings. New Orleans was still recovering when a second fire in 1794 destroyed 200 structures. From Spain, Louisiana was ceded back to France and was finally sold by Napoleon to the United States in the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, effectively doubling the

size of the U.S.A. At a cost of fifteen million dollars, it was considered one of the greatest real estate bargains in history. After the sale, Americans arrived en masse. Unwelcome in the Creole enclave of the French Quarter, they settled across Canal Street in what is known today as The Central Business District. The two factions skirmished often, and the Canal Street median became neutral territory. Ever since, all city medians have been called neutral grounds. 1812: WAR AND PEACE Louisiana joined the Union and New Orleans became the State Capitol. THE NEW ORLEANS, the first steamboat to navigate the Mississippi successfully, arrived from Pittsburgh. The voyage inaugurated the booming cotton and tobacco trade that soon transformed the Port of New Orleans into the nation's second wealthiest city, after New York. The war of 1812 began, culminating in the Battle of New Orleans three years later. In 1815, British troops attacked near New Orleans and tried to persuade the pirate Jean Lafitte, to join them. Instead, Lafitte offered his men and guns to the

A PORT CITY During the 18th and 19th centuries, New Orleans dominated the Caribbean as the most active port city and trade destination for island crops like sugar cane, rum, tobacco and fruit. Thousands of refugees arrived from the Caribbean following the Haitian revolution of 1791 to 1804, and thousands more “gens de coleur libres” free people of color, arrived in New Orleans from Senegambia, now the area in Central Africa known as Benin. Their presence effectively doubled the size of the city. THE NEW PARIS By the mid 1800s, the city became the fourth largest in the U.S. and one of the richest, dazzling visitors with chic Parisian couture, fabulous restaurants and sophisticated culture. Society centered around the French Opera House, where professional opera and theatre companies played to full houses. In fact, opera was performed in New Orleans seven years before the Louisiana Purchase, and more than 400 operas premiered in the Crescent City during the l9th century. A CULTURAL CITY Under French, Spanish and American flags, Creole society coalesced as Islanders, West Africans, slaves, free people of color and indentured servants poured into the city along with a mix of French aristocrats, merchants, farmers, soldiers, freed prisoners and nuns. New Orleans was, for its time, a permissive society where educated gens de

colur libres were master builders who developed elegant Creole architecture and chefs who developed the City's sophisticated Creole cuisine. European aristocrats and rich Creoles often had mistresses, sometimes the famed quadroon (one-quarter black) or octoroons (one-eighth black). Native author Anne Rice set one of her early historical novels, The Feast of all Saints, in l9th-century Creole society. Creole is a chameleon term. It's a variety of tomato, an exotic cuisine, and a poetic architectural style. It also refers to people, but the definition varies, depending on whom you ask. One thing is true of Creoles everywhere: they have always been colonials (vs. European immigrants). The original New Orleans Creoles were thoroughbred French, who were the first generation to be born in the colonies. The word Creole derives from the Spanish criollo or the Portuguese crioullo (again depending upon whom you ask), which distinguished a person born in the colonies from an immigrant or an imported slave. In present-day New Orleans, there are people of various combinations of French, Spanish, West Indian and African ancestry who proudly call themselves Creole.

Statue of Andrew Jackson in Jackson Square with the Pontalba Apartments in the background. Cajuns, on the other hand, are descended from a specific group of Catholic, French-speaking trappers and farmers who were exiled from Nova Scotia by the ruling English-Protestants in 1755. About 10,000 eventually settled in Southwest Louisiana, in what is now called Acadian. Some later came to New Orleans neighborhoods like Westwego. Over a million people of Cajun descent live in Louisiana. Bobby Hebert, the former star quarterback of the Falcons, is of such heritage and is known in sports broadcast circles as "The Cajun Cannon." Longfellow immortalized their story of loss and exile in his epic poem, "Evangeline." But Canada's expulsion was Louisiana's gain; Cajuns brought us their “joie de vivre” of lively music, and famed cuisine. Yes, a visit to this historical City can be magic. No other City in the United States has the unique ambiance that you can only find in New Orleans. New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2020 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70130 • 504566-5011 • www.nomcvb.com www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 37

Gulf Coast Meeting Destinations • New Orleans

Commander of the U.S. troops, General Andrew Jackson. On the morning of January 8, a polyglot band of 4,000 militia, frontiersmen, former Haitian slaves, and Lafitte's pirates outfought 8,000 British troops at the Chalmette battlefield, just a few miles east of the French Quarter. Only eight Americans died in the battle and English casualties exceeded 2,000. The battlefield remains a historical place for anyone who visits New Orleans.

Meeting Planner Incentives

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Anaheim Marriott Offers Planners a Million Reasons to Book Their Next Function at the Hotel — Including a $139 Per Night Rate eeting planners and groups seeking a hotel in Southern California that is offering a valueadded program for functions in 2012 and 2013 should take a look at the Anaheim Marriott. The hotel is currently offering a Million Reasons promotion which features great savings. Groups who book their events on special dates throughout 2012 and 2013 will not only enjoy exceptional meeting space at the Anaheim Marriott, but they can also take advantage of additional savings as follows: • Rates starting at just $139/night • Complimentary guest room Internet access • Discounted food and beverage pricing • Up to 1 million Marriott Rewards points Applicable dates for this promotion are as follows: 2012 • September 14-19 • November 4-8 • December 12-18 2013 • March 2-7 • March 24-30 • April 14-20 • May 9-15 • May 24-30 • June 5-12 • July 13-19 • August 10-16 • September 3-8 • September 14-20 • October 6-13 • November 3-14 • December 2-8

38 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

With over 100,000 square feet of flexible event space and 44 meetings rooms, the Anaheim Marriott, located just steps from the Convention Center, can accommodate events of any size. One of the largest spaces, the Platinum Ballroom, can seat more than 3,500 guests. To learn more about the Million Reasons promotion, visit www.marriott.com/specials/promotion or call 714-750-8000.

About Anaheim Marriott The Anaheim Marriott is conveniently located in the heart of the Anaheim Resort District, offering amenities and services unrivaled by other Anaheim hotels near Disneyland® Park. Each of the hotel's 1,030 rooms have been designed to exceed guest's expectations and feature high-speed Internet, plush Marriott signature bedding, and tasteful decor. The hotel is walking distance to

the Downtown Disneyland® District, an outdoor promenade with restaurants, theaters, and shopping in a tropical setting. A few steps in the other direction will take visitors to the Anaheim GardenWalk, an oasis of outdoor shopping, dining, and entertainment in the heart of Orange County. The hotel's Platinum Ballroom is also just steps from the Anaheim Convention Center. For additional information, visit www.marriott.com/LAXAH or call 714750-8000.

About Marriott Hotels & Resorts Marriott Hotels & Resorts continues to inspire and provide a balanced life on the road for discerning and high-achieving business and leisure travelers, offering warm, professional service; sophisticated yet functional guest room design; lobby spaces that facilitate working, dining and socializing; restaurants and bars serving international cuisine prepared simply and from the freshest ingredients; meeting and event spaces and services that are gold standard; and expansive, 24-hour fitness facilities. All Marriott hotels participate in the award winning Marriott Rewards frequent travel program that allows members to earn hotel points or airline miles for every dollar spent during each stay. For more information, visit www.MarriottHotels.com.

Stay ahead of the Pack - Register today and become a CDMP!

The CDMP is a globally recognized professional certification program focusing on global diversity inclusion and sustainability within the meetings and conventions industry. Certified Professionals become more culturally aware of their customer base which allows for relevance and competitiveness in a global market. To learn more about the CDMP and our expert trainers and register for the CDMP Program, visit www.IAHMP.org.

Carlos Conejo, CSSBB

Peak Performance Seminars & Multicultural Associates

CDMP USA Trainer

Carole Copeland Thomas

Multiculturalism, Global Diversity & Leadership Training

CDMP USA Trainer

Julia So, Ph.D.

Principal So Garcia Associates, LLC CDMP USA Trainer

Linda Pereira

Executive Director CPL Events CDMP European Trainer

eventscalendar m e e t i n g s

c o n f e r e n c e s

July National Council of La Raza NCLR Annual Conference & Latino Family Expo, Mandalay Bay Hotel & Convention Center Las Vegas, NV July 7–10, 2012 Society for the Advancement of Chicanos & Native Americans in Science 2012 Summer Leadership Institute Washington, D.C. July 16-20, 2012 National Association of Hispanic Nurses 37th Annual Conference Caribe Hilton Hotel San Juan, Puerto Rico July 17-22, 2012 National Hispanic Media Coalition Latino MediaCon & Expo Pasadena Convention Center Pasadena, CA July 20-21, 2012 Hispanic Dental Association 20th Annual Meeting Boca Raton Resort & Club Boca Raton, FL July 20-24, 2012 National Association of Hispanic Firefighters 17th Annual Convention & Training Conference Denver Colorado Convention Center Denver, CO July 31 - August 1, 2012

August National Association of Hispanic Journalists Unity 2012 Convention Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino Las Vegas, NV August 1-4, 2012 Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and 40 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort will have hosted 3 major Hispanic conferences by the end of 2012 Accounting Annual Convention Las Vegas, NV August 11-16, 2012 Hispanic National Bar Association Annual Convention Sheraton Seattle Hotel Seattle, WA August 22-25, 2012

September Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, Inc. Public Policy Conference Washington, DC September 10-12, 2012 InterConnect Expo 2012 Marriott Waterway The Woodlands, TX September 14, 2012 MALDEF 2012 San Antonio Awards Gala The Westin Riverwalk San Antonio, TX September 14, 2012 United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce National Convention & Business Expo JW Marriott at L.A. Live Los Angeles, CA September 16-18, 2012 International Business Conference & Expo featuring a Latino Food Festival The Westin Galleria Houston

Houston, TX September 20 & 21

Lake Buena Vista, FL October 11-13, 2012

October

Society for the Advancement of Chicanos & Native Americans in Science National Conference Washington State Convention & Trade Center Seattle, WA October 11-14, 2012

Hispanic Public Relations Association 28th Annual PRemio Awards & Scholarship Gala Los Angeles, CA October 4, 2012 NSHMBA 23rd Annual Conference & Career Expo Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL October 4 – 6, 2012

Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association 39th National Training Conference Hilton Hotel Long Beach, CA October 7-11, 2012 National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering 38th Anniversary Gala Waldorf-Astoria New York City, NY October 10, 2012 HENAAC 24th Annual Conference Powered by Great Minds in STEM Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Hispanic Scholarship Fund Alumni Hall of Fame & Education Summit Gotham Hall New York City, NY October 17, 2012 Hispanic Scholarship Fund Chairman’s Education Innovation Luncheon Le Parker Meridien New York City, NY October 18, 2012 National Association of Hispanic Publications 27th Annual Convention and Business Expo Catamaran Resort and Hotel San Diego, CA October 18 – 20, 2012 Hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities 26th Annual Conference Marriott Wardman Park hotel Washington, D.C. October 20-22, 2012

EventsCalendar

November MALDEF 2012 Los Angeles Awards Gala The Westin Bonaventure Los Angeles, CA November 8, 2012 Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers National Conference Fort Worth, TX November 14-18, 2012

December International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals 17th Annual International Conference & Trade Show Red Lion Hotel on the River Portland, Oregon December 2-5, 2012 National Hispana Leadership Institute 2012 Executive Leadership Training & Mujer Awards Conference Mayflower Renaissance Hotel Washington, D.C. December 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11, 2012

The National Council of La Raza will host it's annual conference for the first time ever in Las Vegas at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Convention Center

U.S. Travel Cultural & Historic Destinations in Texas Presidio La Bahia a National Historic Landmark in Goliad, Texas Presidio La Bahía is located in Goliad, Texas and was established at this location in 1749, with Mission Espíritu Santo. It has been owned by the Catholic Church since 1853 and is currently operated by the Catholic Diocese of Victoria, Texas.

During the mid-1960s, the Kathryn Stoner O'Connor Foundation funded a restoration project under the direction of architect Raiford Stripling and archeologist Roland Beard. The fort was rebuilt to its 1836 appearance, based on documents and archeological evidence dating from the Texas Revolution. Presidio La Bahía was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1967.

G o l i a d ,

Te x a s

The significance of the Presidio is that it and the two missions constitute the only surviving example of a Spanish Colonial mission/presidio complex in Texas and one of very few in North America. The Presidio chapel still serves as a community church. Visitors may tour the grounds and chapel and visit the Presidio's museum. The most popular annual event at the site is the Goliad Massacre Living History Program, a two-day reenactment of the battle of Coleto Creek and the subsequent execution of Colonel James W. Fannin and his troops. Our Lady of Loreto Chapel at Presidio La Bahia has served the spiritual needs of Catholics - Spanish, Mexican, Texas, American, in turn - since 1779. Even today, mass services are held every Sunday at 5:00 p.m. at the Our Lady of Loreto Chapel. Near the Presidio is the Fannin Memorial Monument. After the defeat of the Mexican army at the Battle of San Jacinto, as General Rusk and the Texas army was following the Mexican army out of Texas, when they arrived at Goliad, they gathered up the remains of Fannin and his men and buried them at a site to the southeast of Presidio La Bahia. It took over 100 years for the State of Texas to erect a lasting monument to Colonel Fannin and his men. The monument was erected and dedicated in 1938, and placed directly over the grave of the Goliad garrison. The monument, which is in fact a gravestone, contains the known names of the Goliad men and those killed at the battle of Coleto Creek on March 19, 1836. The relief carving shows the Goddess of Liberty lifting a fallen soldier in chains.

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Presidio La Bahia, Goliad, Texas Under 9 Flags

In addition to the six flags over Texas (Spain, France, Mexico, Republic of Texas, Confederate States of America and United Sates of America), three other flags have flown over Goliad, all flags of revolution.

Nine Flags Flown Over Presidio La Bahia In Chronological Order

Bourbon Cross of King Carlos III of Spain, 1519-1685, 1690-1821 Spain's claim on Texas might be said to have begun when Columbus made his discovery in 1492 and claimed the land as New Spain. This included the land later known as Texas. In 1519, Alonzo de Pinede, said to have been the first man to visit Texas, was commissioned to explore the Gulf coast from Florida to Vera Cruz. From this time to 1685 Spain continued its claim to Texas.

In 1690, Spain regained its claim after a short occupation by France and the Flag of Spain flew over Texas until 1821. This is referred to as the Mission Era. It was during this time that Goliad was an important Spanish colonial settlement.

The Green flag of the Republican Army of the North, 1812-1813 (Flag of Revolution for the First Republic of Texas) The Republican Army of the North declared Texas to be a republic, independent of Spain. The MageeGutierrez expedition, a part of this army, arrived at Goliad in November 1812. They found the fort abandoned so they took it. The Royalist Army of Spain surrounded the fort and until February 1813 the two conflicting groups occupied the area in and around La Bahia. Notable during this time was the battle of the "White Cow". In this, the Magee men were trying to capture a white cow for food and were engaged in a short battle with the Spanish forces. Spain finally gave up and left La Bahia for San Antonio in February 1813. Captain James Long's Flag. 1821 (Flag of Revolution for the Second Republic of Texas) The James Long expedition carried a flag of red and white stripes with a field of red and a white star. The group occupied Goliad in October 1821 and held La Bahia for three days. On the fourth day they were captured by the Mexican army and sent to Mexico as prisoners.

Centralist Flag of the Republic of Mexico 1821-1836 Mexico, after being under the stronghold of the Spanish dictators who had ruled since Cortez, had struggled and gained her freedom from Spain in 1824. The Republic of Mexico's flag, consisting of three wide bars of green, white, and red with an eagle holding a snake in its mouth centered on the white bar, waved over most of Texas up to the Texas victory at San Jacinto. This was the flag flown at La Bahia during this period. It remains today as the official flag of Mexico. Captain Phillip Dimmitt's "First Flag of Texas Independence", 1835 (Flag of Revolution for The Goliad Flag) Several historians have given similar reports on the "Bloody arm flag of Goliad" said to have been made by Captain Phillip Dimmitt. On December 20 1835 the first declaration of Texas independence was signed at Goliad in the chapel of the Presidio by members of Dimmitt's command then stationed at La Bahia. After signing, the group went into the quadrangle and "amidst rapturous hurrahs, the flag of Texas Independence was hoisted and unfurled to the wintry wind". Most of the accounts on this flag ceremony quote as their source of information, the memoirs of John James and Nicholas Fagan. The Dimmitt flag has now become the accepted flag of Goliad and is frequently displayed by business houses around the Goliad Square. Flag of the Republic of Texas, 18361845 Several designs were proposed but on January 25, 1839 the well known Lone Star of Texas was adopted by an act of Congress and approved by President Mirabeau Lamar to be the

official flag of the Republic of Texas. It was designed by Dr. Charles B. Stewart, who was the second signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. Flag of the United States of America, 1845-1861, 1865-Present (28 Star flag flown after Texas joined the Union) In 1845, the annexation of Texas to the United State was approved. The officials of the Republic of Texas retired and the officials of the State of Texas were installed. At the Texas Capitol on February 19, 1846, Ex-President Anson Jones ordered the Texas Republic Flag to be lowered and the Star Spangled Banner raised above it. President Jones said, "The final act in this drama is now performed. The Republic of Texas is no more.â&#x20AC;? Texas became the twenty-eighth state in "Old Glory". First National Flag of the Confederate States of America 1861-1865 In 1861 the State of Texas seceded from the United States to join the Confederacy and stayed with it until the end of the war in 1865. The "Stars and Bars" was the national flag of the Confederacy, as opposed to the popular Confederate Battle Flag. ________________________________ This information has been compiled from numerous sources, including, but not limited to: Presidio La Bahia archives and publications, The Catholic Diocese of Victoria, Texas, The Catholic Diocese of Corpus Christi, Texas, The Handbook of Texas Online, The Sons of Dewitt Colony, Lone Star Junction, Texas Historical Commission, The City of Goliad, The Goliad County Chamber of Commerce, and Texas State Library and Archives Commission web sites. Photo of the Presido provided by Her View Photography by Darlene Hilebrandt. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 43

cultural & histroical destinations

Fleur-de-Lis of Royalist France, 16851690 La Salle landed on the Texas coast in 1685 and claimed the Texas territory for France. He established Fort St. Louis on the Gracitias Creek near the bay. Goliad can claim a special interest in this flag as this was the site later selected by the Spanish for their early mission and fort, which were moved to Victoria County and finally in 1749 to Goliad. A reminder of the original location has been kept for over two hundred years in the title, La Bahia (The Bay).

an amazing, beautiful singing voice. 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. Q: Jessica, what was the best part of your quinceañera experience? Jessica, ¿cuál fue la mejor experiencia de tu fiesta de quinceañera? A: The best part of my quinceañera was performing the surprise dance in front of everyone and dancing all night long! La mejor parte de mi quinceañera fue bailar el baile sorpresa en frente de todos y ¡bailar toda la noche! Q: Are there any unique stories, experiences or incidents that happened during the planning of Jes-

sica’s quince or the day of the fiesta that you would like to share with our readers? ¿Existen historias únicas, experiencias o incidentes que sucedieron durante la planificación de la fiesta de quince de Jessica o el día de la fiesta que les gustarían compartir con nuestros lectores? A: As the day of the quinceañera

was approaching, my little cousin was supposed to walk down with my other little cousin. Turns out he didn’t want to so we had to find a new mini main escort fast! A medida que el día de la quinceañera se acercaba, mi primo pequeño iba a caminar con mi primita. Resulta que él no quería hacerlo ¡así que tuvimos que encontrar un nuevo minichambelán rápido! **Before every dance rehearsal, the court of honor and I would warm up with The Wobble. That was always fun for us! Antes de cada ensayo de baile, la corte de honor y yo nos gustaba entrar en calor con el bamboleo. ¡Eso siempre era divertido para nosotros! I had a lot of fun and good memories were made that day. Me divertí mucho y se hicieron muchas memorias buenas ese día.

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the planning process? ¿Cuál fue la parte más fácil del proceso de planificar la quinceañera? A: The easiest part of the planning process was finding the dress. It was love at first sight. Ha ha. La parte más fácil del proceso de planificar la fiesta fue encontrar el vestido. Fue amor a primera vista. Jajá. Q: Who participated in your court of honor? ¿Quienes participaron en tu corte de honor? A: Three of my friends and dancers from my school’s HOLA Dance Club at Langham Creek High School: Hilary Moreno, Shelby Guity, and Leila Rodriguez, and my friend Dulce Romero. Tres de mis amigas y bailadoras del grupo HOLA Dance Club en mi escuela de Langham Creek High School: Hilary Moreno, Shelby Guity, y Leila Rodriguez, y mi amiga Dulce Romero. Q: Where did you buy your gown?

And your cute short lilac party dress? ¿En donde compraron el vestido formal? ¿Y el lindo vestido corto de color lila? A: Parisina Bridal, 4627 Hwy. 6 North, Houston, TX 77081 Q: How many choreographed dances did you perform? Did you use a professional choreographer? ¿Cuántos bailes coreógrafos realizaron? ¿Usaron un coreógrafo profesional? A: I preformed four songs and no I did not use a professional choreographer. I choreographed the surprise dance myself. Yo baile cuatro canciones y no use un coreógrafo profesional. Yo fui la coreógrafa. Q: How long did it take you all to learn all these dances? ¿Cuánto tiempo les tomó a todas a aprender todas estas danzas? A: It took us a few weeks to learn the dances. Nos tomo varias semanas para aprender la danzas.

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Q: What song(s) did you perform to? ¿Cuales son los nombres de las canciones que bailaron? A: 1. “Se Le Ve”- Andy Montanez 2. “La Langosta” - Amarfis 3. “Give It Up To Me”- Shakira 4. “Magalenha”- Sergio Mendez Q: What was the name of the song you chose for the fatherdaughter dance? ¿Cuál canción elegiste para el baile de padre e hija? A: De Nina A Mujer- Pedro Pablo Q: As parents, what is your fondest memory of Jessica’s quinceañera? Como padres ¿cuál es su mejor recuerdo de la quinceañera de Jessica? A: 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

Q: How long before the fiesta did you reserve the reception hall? ¿Cuánto tiempo antes de la fiesta reservaron el salón de recepción? A: They reserved it one year ahead of time. Ellos reservaron el salón un año antes. Q: Did you celebrate a religious ceremony as part of the quinceañera? ¿Celebraron una ceremonia religiosa como parte de la quinceañera? A: Yes, we celebrated a religious ceremony at the beginning of the quinceañera. Si, celebramos una ceremonia religiosa en el principio de la quinceañera. Q: Jessica, how involved were you in the planning and decision-making process of the quinceañera?

Jessica with her parents Gloria y Adilson Ordones

Jessica, ¿cuánta participación tuviste en la planificación y toma de decisiones de tu fiesta de quince? A: I was very involved in the planning and decision-making of my quinceañera, like the decorations, my dress, and the choreography for the surprise dance. Yo estaba muy involucrada en la planificación y toma de decisiones de mi fiesta de quinceañera, como la decoración de el salón, mi vestido, y la coreografía de el baile sorpresa. Q: What was the most difficult part of the planning process? ¿Cuál fue la parte más difícil del

proceso de planificar la quinceañera? A: The hardest part of the planning process was finding good Mardi Gras decorations and colors. La parte más difícil del proceso de planificar la quinceañera fue encontrar buenos colores y decoraciones para el tema de Mardi Gras. Q: Whose idea was it to have a Mardi Gras themed dance? ¿De quién fue la idea de tener un baile con tema de Mardi Gras? A: It was my idea to have a Mardi Gras themed dance because I’ve never been to a Mardi Gras festival and it looked fun. Fue mi idea de tener un baile con tema de Mardi Gras porque yo nunca he atendido un festival de Mardi Gras y se miraba divertido. Q: What was the easiest part of

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Featured Quinceañera: Jessica Emely Ordones Ramos

Si, siempre sabíamos que yo tendría una fiesta de quinceañera.

Date: April 21,2012

Q: How old were you when you began planning your quinceañera Reception and Dance: fiesta? Brenda’s Reception Hall, 14637 ¿Que edad tenias JesBeechnut St. Houston, TX 77083 sica cuando comenzaron a planificar tu fiesQuince: Did you always know that ta de quinceañera? you would celebrate your XV with a quinceañera fiesta? A: I was 10 years old when my par¿Siempre sabías que tendrías una ents started planning my fiesta de quinceañera? quinceañera. Answer: Yes, we always knew we would celebrate my XV with a quinceañera fiesta. 2 | Quince Magazine

Yo tenía 10 años cuando mis padres empezaron a planear mi fiesta de quinceañera.

Q: Who did the majority of the planning? ¿Quien hizo la mayoría de la planificación? A: My father and my grandmother did most of the planning. Mi padre y mi abuela hicieron la mayoría de la planificación.