Come join us in Atlantic City!
20TH CONFERENCE ANNIVERSARY
“Promoting Diversity in the Meetings & Hospitality Industry” Register for the conference at www.IAHMP.org
October 20-24, 2015 Tropicana Casino & Resort - Atlantic City
• U.S. Hispanic Meetings Market update • Diversity issues in the industry
• One on one appointments with national meeting planners
• Certified Diversity Meeting Professional (CDMP) course offered
• Meeting Planner Hosted Buyer Program includes complimentary 4 night accommodations, R/T airfare, all F&B
PUBLISHER’S NOTE It’s been a hot summer so far in the great State of Texas which makes the cover photo of the rooftop pool at the newly opened Westin Austin Downtown that much more enticing!! This new Westin property makes meeting in Texas exciting and appealing to even the most indiscriminate convention attendee. We have featured several Texas meeting destinations in this issue that can make your next event/convention a big hit.
Another way to make all your events a success is your ability to Network with Convention and Visitor Bureaus. Keeping up with the latest news from the city that will be the site of your next meeting can help you stay up to date, relay pertinent information to your attendees and may even win you a prize or two as you plan, plan, plan your event. CVBs welcome the ability to share information with meeting planners and one of the best ways is to visit their
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websites periodically or better yet sign up for their e-newsletter and never miss new deals, giveaways and info your attendees could use. Networking with CVBs begins on page 16.
The temperature is not the only thing heating up this summer. The 2016 Presidential race has turned up the heat and unbelievably our community is taking a blunt hit because of it. Margaret Gonzalez, Founder of Hispanic Meetings & Travel, shares her views on how we as a community should handle this assault especially when derived by a hotel owner that benefits not only from our workforce but also from the Trillion dollar industry that is the Hispanic Meetings Marketplace. You can read her comments on the following page. I hope you will follow suit. ¡Unidos somos invencibles!
SUMMER
2015
María de la Luz González Publisher and Editor
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VOL 17
COVER STORY
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NO 2
16
12 ..........................................Texas Meeting Destinations
FEATURES 08 ......................................Hispanic Associations Update •Leadership •News •Events 16....................................................Networking With CVBs
DEPARTMENTS 03............................................Publisher’s Letter 04......Contributing Editor’s Comments/Credits 06 ................................................Industry Briefs 11 ..........................................Calendar of Events 23 ......................................Education Initiatives Cover Photo: The Westin Austin Downtown’s stunning rooftop pool overlooks the Austin city skyline.
Photo Credit: The Westin Austin Downtown/Mark Knight Photography
In the Next Issue FALL 2015 • International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals (IAHMP) Conference Issue • Southwest Meeting Destinations • Mid-West Meeting Destinations
Comments from IAHMP on Donald Trump's Remarks
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR’S COMMENTS
Donald Trump’s remarks are certainly cause for concern as it could impact travel to the U.S. from Mexico and all Spanish speaking countries in Central/South America and the islands of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. People will think twice about visiting our country if they think Trump speaks for the American people.
As you may know, next to Canada, Mexico is America's second most important travel partner.
Travel from Mexico sustains the travel economy of states like California and Texas.
IAHMP has a professional chapter in Mexico and its members work in the convention & visitors bureaus. And some of the members also own hotels and are leaders in Mexico's Hotel Association. I can tell you they are not happy with Trump's pronounced remarks and have expressed this on Facebook and Twitter.
IAHMP has implemented the Certified Diversity Meeting Professional to empower industry professionals to know more about the diversity of people in the U.S. The CDMP certification program includes all the multicultural markets. Participants learn how to work and better understand the diversity of the Native Americans; Asian Americans; Black/African Americans and the Hispanic Americans. In the hospitality industry it is imperative to have skills to work with these markets.
The press in the U.S. should focus on the history of the Southwest when Spain and Mexico controlled the lands and established the Missions and pueblos and 4 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
HispanicMeetingsTravel.com PUbLIShER Gonzalez Global Media, LLC. EdItOR María de la Luz González mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com FOUNdER & CONtRIbUtING EdItOR Margaret Gonzalez mgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com dESIGN & PROdUCtION bAy AREA MEdIA SERVICES / SCENE MEdIA CREAtIVE & PROdUCtION dIRECtOR - John Ennis www.bams.us / www.thescenemagazine.com AdVERtISING StEVEN GONzALEz sgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com MARIA GONzALEz mdgonzalez@hispanicmeetingstravel.com
named the cities and rivers. For example: San Antonio; San Diego; Los Angeles; San Francisco and many others have Spanish names. Rivers like the Colorado and Rio Grande and others. The Mexican people were in the Southwest before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock and it's time this history be told. Why is the American press giving Donald Trump free press that is not given to others seeking the presidency...is Trump smarter than a fox? Will Donald Trump’s hotels and golf resorts be impacted? Already Ricky Martin has cancelled an event at a Trump property and others will follow.
IAHMP has not issued a formal statement but our members have signed petitions to Macy's, NBC and others. Some of our members ancestors date back to the 1600 and 1700 hundreds prior to the establishment of the United States and long before Donald Trump’s ancestors arrived from Germany.
Margaret Gonzalez President/CEO IAHMP www.IAHMP.org
Founder & Contributing Editor Hispanic Meetings & Travel
CONtRIbUtING WRItERS Broadcasting & Cable and Multichannel News, Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute, FutbolUSA, Margaret Gonzalez, Maria de la Luz Gonzalez, Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB, Greater Miami CVB, Hilton Americas–Houston, Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE), Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR), Hispanic Dental Association (HDA), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, & The Beaches VCB, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., Visit Kansas City, Visit Milwaukee, Visit Norfolk, The Westin Austin Downtown
PhOtOGR APhy Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute, DigPicPhoto, Greater Miami CVB, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE), Hyatt Corporation, International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals (IAHMP), San Diego Tourism Authority, Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, SER Jobs for Progress, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., VISIT FLORIDA, Visit Milwaukee, The Westin Austin Downtown/Mark Knight Photography
AdVERtISING SALES OFFICE Gonzalez Global Media 2600 South Shore Blvd., Suite 300 League City, Texas 77573 Telephone - 281-245-3330 Fax - 281-668-9199 W E b PA G E www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com WEb MAStER - Gonzalez Global Media Hispanic Meetings & Travel ISSN #1527-8387 is owned and published by the Gonzalez Global Media, LLC. at 2600 South Shore Blvd., Suite 300, League City, Texas 77573 C 1999-2015 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.
www.issuu.com/hispanicmeetingstravel
Flip thru current and back issues of Hispanic Meetings & Travel at your computer, smart phone or tablet. (Including all Apple Mobile devices including Iphone & Ipads.*) *ISSUU.com is the web’s most popular destination for publications, a Time.com Top Web Site of the Year winner and works with all browsers & Apple IOS Devices.
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industrybriefs T
N E W * F R E S H * P R O G R E S S I V E
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau Hires Connie Kinnard As Vice President Multicultural Tourism
he Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) has hired Connie Kinnard to be the organization's Vice President of Multicultural Tourism. A national search firm was engaged to conduct a search for top candidates to spearhead the newly created department dedicated to the GMCVB's evolving efforts to raise awareness of the destination's vibrant multicultural community. A screening committee comprised of a diverse group of community and industry leaders reviewed more than 40 applications for the position. "We were delighted with the number of highly qualified applicants received locally and from across the country for this critical position at the GMCVB," said Carole Ann Taylor, GMCVB Executive Committee Member, who served on the screening committee. Ultimately, Connie Kinnard's 20 years of experience and success specializing in multicultural tourism made her the standout professional for the GMCVB position and the recommendation of the committee. "It is a pleasure to welcome Connie to the GMCVB Team," says Talbert. "We are looking forward to introducing her to our local industry and community partners. The knowledge, experience and enthusiasm she brings to her new position at the GMCVB will take our multicultural tourism efforts to a new level." Connie Kinnard, Vice President of Multicultural Tourism at Prior to joining the GMCVB, Connie Kinnard held the posiThe Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau tion of Senior Vice President of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corporation. She has been with the Nashville organization since 1996, when she started in Convention Sales and was subsequently promoted to Vice President of Multicultural Sales & Development. She holds a Masters of Management from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Tennessee State University. Connie is an active member of numerous industry organizations such as the National Coalition of Black Meeting Planners, International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals, the Urban League and NAACP. The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) is an accredited, independent not-for-profit destination sales and marketing organization whose mission is to attract visitors to Greater Miami and the Beaches for leisure, business and conventions. Meeting planners may call 1-800-933-8448 (US/Canada only) or 305-539-3071 or visit www.MiamiMeetings.com. Facebook: Facebook.com/visitmiami Twitter: Twitter.com/miamiandbeaches
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20-year Veteran to Lead Culinary team at South Walton Resort
avier Rosa, a more than 20-year veteran of the culinary industry, has been named the new executive chef at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort. Originally from Puerto Rico, Rosa has traveled to more than 20 countries to hone his culinary skills, including excursions to Europe, Asia and the Caribbean to experience an array of global cuisines. Over the years, he has prepared meals for presidents, kings, queens and famous personalities from around the world.
Rosa has spent most of his career with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company with stints in the United States and the Caribbean. While working at The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C., he had the opportunity to thrill the palates of Presidents George H.W. Bush, George W. Bush and opera superstar Luciano Pavarotti. At Grand Cayman Island, he hosted many celebrities including Iron Chef Morimoto, Jean Banchet, Michael Richard and Fabio Trabocchi.
"Throughout my life, I have experienced different countries and culinary styles and it has shaped me into the chef I am today," said Rosa. "I am thrilled to be at Sandestin, so I can share my passion for food and the fusion of a variety of cuisines to Northwest Florida."
Rosa is recognized as a culinary innovator and his art of plating and food styling have earned him numerous accolades in multiple newspapers and magazines. While serving with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, he was selected as a part of a training team charged with opening six new hotels with fine dining restaurants domestically and internationally. Rosa is also a former member of the National Puerto Rico Culinary Team.
Javier Rosa is the new Executive Chef at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort in Destin, FL.
Most recently, Rosa was the executive chef for Levy Restaurants at Amway Arena in Orlando and executive sous chef at American Airlines Arena in Miami. While working for that organization, he served NBA franchises in both cities, including the year the Miami Heat won the NBA Championship in 2012. He also played an integral role in the 2012 and 2013 U.S. Open Tennis Championships in New York and for the opening of the Barclays Center, home to the NBA's Brooklyn Nets.
About Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort is a major destination for all seasons and all ages, and was named the #1 resort on Florida's Emerald Coast. The resort invites guests to a world of 2,400 acres and 30 charming neighborhoods featuring more than 1,250 South Walton vacation rentals, condominiums, villas, town homes and the best in Destin hotel accommodations. As a member of Visit South Walton and Visit Florida, the resort features more than seven miles of beaches and pristine bay front, four championship golf courses, 15 world-class tennis courts, 19 swimming pools, a 113-slip marina, a fitness center and spa, meeting space and The Village of Baytowne Wharf, a charming pedestrian village with events, shopping, dining and nightlife. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 7
industrybriefs
Sandestin Golf And beach Resort Announces New Executive Chef
LEAdERShIP SER – Jobs for Progress’ National President, Ignacio Salazar, Elected as hACR’s board Chair
hispanic Associations Update
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he Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) announced that SER-Jobs for Progress’ National President, Ignacio Salazar, was unanimously elected as HACR's new Board Chair. His election took effect in April 2015. Salazar follows the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) National President, Margaret Moran, who served for two years as board chair.
Salazar serves as president and CEO of SER-Jobs for Progress National, Inc., a national network of employment and training providers. The network is currently comprised of local SER affiliates in 17 States, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia, providing services to more than one million persons annually. Prior to this position, Salazar served as president of the SER Metro Detroit Corporation and its subsidiaries in Arkansas, Illi-
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nois, New Mexico, and parts of Texas, until he left to assume leadership of the national office in 2001.
“I am honored and privileged to be elected Chairman of HACR’s Board of Directors during this important time in the history of our great nation,” said Salazar, “the need for effective dialogue and a deeper understanding of the value and richness that culturally diverse communities provide has reached its peak for corporations and society alike. The future strength of U.S. corporations and the private sector will be inextricably linked to strategic thinking, innovative product design, and diversity inclusion, which ultimately leads to greater economic prosperity for the entire nation."
Salazar added "we cannot have a strong America without a strong corporate sector, and we cannot have a strong corporate sector without including our society’s fastest growing segment. Our workers are an integral part of the solution and the key to our future. In this HACR will continue to go about the task of keeping our nation strong and vibrant.” For more information on HACR visit: www.hacr.org.
Patricia Mota Named hispanic Alliance For Career Enhancement President
he Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE) has announced the hiring of Patricia Mota as its new president. Patricia’s work at HACE in the past 5 years includes the development of new HACE partnerships, increased partner engagement, launch of Mujeres de HACE women’s leadership program across four cities nationally, expansion of HACE’s El Futuro High School program to Houston, and the pilot of the new HACE Nonprofit Leadership Program.
Recently Patricia stepped in as Interim President and led the organization through the implementation and execution of its strategic planning process, annual fundraiser, business development, financial controls audit, programs expansion and technology upgrade.
“After a long and thorough process we are excited to have Patricia at the helm. We couldn’t be happier and prouder to have witnessed Patricia’s very own professional development and journey at HACE, the embodiment of our mission.” Juan Carlos 8 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
Avila, HACE board chair said.
As HACE’s new President, Patricia will continue to lead strategy, development, leadership programming, and driving organizational reach on a national scale. Patricia has a strong history of serving the Latino community, as reflected by her service on various boards and committees, and several accolades, most recently appointed to the Indiana University Latino Alumni Association Board and being awarded the Woman Executive of the Year Award by Sucesos magazine in Houston, Texas. - Continued on Next Page
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FUSA is nation's first hispanic/Latino centric pro soccer league
utbolUSA, Inc. has launched a 32 team, two division, top-tier professional soccer league, with an inaugural season set to start in September of this year. FUSA will begin selling 16 Liga Primera (Division 1) and 16 Liga Nacional (Division 2) teams in 16 cities in Texas, California, and the Southwest. Over 700 players will be recruited at four regional combines/tryouts that will be held in June 2015.
FUSA will not be recruiting players directly from colleges, universities, or other professional leagues. FUSA will instead recruit players from the ranks of the hundreds of thousands of predominantly Hispanic and Latino amateur players that crowd soccer fields across the US each weekend.
FUSA recognizes that a number of barriers have hindered the ability of top Hispanic and Latino amateur players to make it into the professional soccer pipeline in the US. "The language barrier, registration costs, the US youth soccer pay to play model, and professional recruitment almost exclusively from colleges are the main factors that keep some of the best Hispanic and Latino players from playing professional soccer," said Miguel Perez, Director of Futbol Operations. "While FUSA is an unprecedented opportunity for amateur Hispanic and Latino players to turn pro and get paid to play the sport they love, FUSA is also open to players of all races, ethnici-
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ties, language preferences and national origin."
"FUSA will be a Hispanic and Latino community resource infused with cultural pride that provides homegrown entertainment and opportunity," said Perez. According to Perez, the FUSA opportunity "extends to players, coaches and staff, team owners, and sponsors and advertisers who seek to build a meaningful grassroots relationship with the US Spanish language community."
FutbolUSA, Inc. has a 10 year plan to become the number one professional soccer platform in the US and to be one of the country's most valuable sports properties. "As FUSA grows over the next decade, we are looking at exponential valuation growth for our team owners," said Michael Mauriello, President of FutbolUSA, Inc. "The sports team comps are there, the brand is exceptional, the market is ripe, and the timing is perfect for FUSA team owners to create substantial financial value by combining their capital, their business skills, and their desire to win." For additional information about the league, visit www.futbolusa.com.
hispanic dental Association Relocates headquarters arlier this year the Hispanic Dental Association announced the relocation and opening of its National Headquarters in Austin, Texas.
“The relocation of our office is a strategic decision based on geography, the growth of the Hispanic Community and a greater emphasis on service at the grassroots level,” noted David Pena, Jr, Executive Director, Hispanic Dental Association. The Hispanic Dental Association is a national, non-profit organ-
PATRICIA MOTA: Continued From Previous Page
“I am extremely honored to take on this greater responsibility
for such a great organization,” says Patricia. “HACE is fortu-
nate to have dedicated and talented team members, board mem-
bers, leadership program alumni, strategic partnerships, and
hundreds of volunteers who drive our mission forward across
the country. I look forward to the journey and we call on others
to join us in the efforts of enhancing the careers of Latinos, pro-
ization comprised of oral NATIONAL OFFICE health professionals and stu- 3910 S. IH-35., Suite # 245 dents dedicated to eliminating Austin, Texas 78704 oral health disparities in the 512-904-0252 Hispanic community by pro- www.hdassoc.org viding Service, Education, Advocacy, and Leadership. We are the leaders for Hispanic oral health providing Service, Education, Advocacy, and Leadership.
viding them with the tools to uphold greater leadership roles in their careers and in our communities. It is time."
HACE is a national non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of Latino professionals. For over 32 years, we have served as a resource for Latinos in the workplace and a source of expertise and insight for corporations seeking access to them. For more information visit: www.haceonline.org.
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 9
Hispanic Associations Update
New US Professional Soccer League Kicks Off!
hispanic Associations Update
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EVENtS
13th hispanic television Summit to be Keynoted by GroupM Multicultural's Gonzalo del Fa, Major League Soccer's Gary R. Stevenson
roadcasting & Cable and Multichannel News have announced that Gonzalo del Fa, President, GroupM Multicultural and Gary R. Stevenson, President and Managing Director, MLS Business Ventures, have been named opening and closing keynote speakers for the 13th Annual Hispanic Television Summit. The premier one-day conference covering the business of Hispanic television in the United States, Latin America and around the world is set for Thursday, October 22 at the Park Central Hotel New York. This year, for the first time, the Hispanic Television Summit will be one of the signature events that make up New York City Television Week.
Delivering the opening keynote, del Fa will discuss Turning Loyal Viewers into Your New Customers. In his position as President of GroupM Multicultural, del Fa leads all aspects of the multicultural media and marketing efforts initiated by GroupM agencies
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including Mindshare, MEC, Mediacom, Maxus and more.
Last year, MLS received the Leadership in Hispanic Television Award at this summit, so it is fitting that Stevenson's closing keynote will be A Look Ahead at the Business of Soccer on Television. An innovator in sports marketing and media strategies for more than 35 years, Stevenson was named president and managing director of MLS Business Ventures in 2013.
The Hispanic Television Summit is the premier event for those in the business of television for Hispanic audiences and covers programming, advertising, online distribution technology and this year will especially feature the genre of telenovelas. Over 500 executives attend from the U.S., Latin America, Europe and other territories. For registration, contact Rebecca Shottland at rshottland@nbmedia.com or 917-281-4782.
Congressional hispanic Leadership Institute's 11th Annual Gala & Leadership Awards
he Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) hosted its 11th Annual Gala & Leadership Awards on May 13, 2015 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Washington, D.C. This year CHLI celebrated its commitment to Latino youth and the launch of its CHLI Global Leaders Alumni Network.
CHLI honored exceptional leaders and institutions that have been involved with CHLI in the past, including Senator and former President of Colombia, Alvaro Uribe Velez, former Governor of Florida, Jeb Bush, and Florida International University, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.
"Our gala was all about the future: Alvaro Uribe, inspiring the leaders of tomorrow; Jeb Bush mentoring the leaders of tomorrow; and Florida International University, forming the leaders of tomorrow. At CHLI we seek to help form future generations of
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leaders, in the hope that they will respect the basic principles and tenets of the law, and respect themselves," said CHLI Chairman, former member of Congress, Lincoln Diaz-Balart. Visit www.chli.org for more information on this event.
Nissan, LULAC National Scholarship Fund Award More Than $95,000 in Scholarships
issan partnered with LULAC National Educational Service Centers, Inc. (LNESC), the educational arm of League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), to donate more than $95,000 to the LULAC National Scholarship Fund, which helps high-performing high school students attend college. Nissan awarded 137 scholarships to help make the dream of college enrollment a reality for students.
“Nissan, with the most diverse consumer base of any automotive manufacturer, is a top car brand among U.S. Hispanics, and we want our community outreach efforts to reflect that level of diversity,” said Fred Diaz, senior vice president of sales & marketing and operations, Nissan North America. “We understand 10 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
the importance of engaging diverse consumers in a relevant and authentic way, which is why we partner with organizations such as LNESC to inspire students to enroll in college and use their education to effect positive change in underserved and underrepresented Latino communities.”
Richard Roybal, Executive Director of LNESC, states: “Nissan understands that by investing in our youth’s education, we’re also alleviating financial stress and allowing students to focus on what matters: their success in school. Ultimately, this will help the future of our economy through access to top-tier talent in many industries.” More information about LNESC and its programs can be found at www.LNESC.org.
eventscalendar June Mexican American Legal defense & Educational Fund MALDEF’S Chicago Awards Gala The Hyatt Regency Chicago Chicago, IL June 3, 2015 National Association of hispanic Real Estate Professionals Corporate Board of Governors Retreat • ANDAZ San Diego San Diego, CA June 15-16, 2015
of Chicanos & Native Americans in Science Summer Leadership Institute Marriott Metro Centre Washington, DC July 20-24, 2015
National Association of Latino Independent Producers NALIP Media Summit W Hollywood Hotel Los Angeles, CA June 25-28, 2015
Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting 43rd Annual Convention New York Hilton Midtown New York City, NY August 6-10, 2015
National Association of hispanic Nurses 40th Annual Conference Hyatt Regency • Anaheim, CA July 7-10, 2015 League of United Latin American Citizens 86th National Convention & Exposition Salt Palace Convention Center Hilton Salt Lake City Salt Lake City, UT July 7-11, 2015 National Council of La Raza Annual Conference & Latino Family Expo Kansas City Convention Center Crowne Plaza Downtown Kansas City, MO July 11-15, 2015 Society for the Advancement
c o n f e r e n c e s
August hispanic It Executive Council Q3 Executive Leadership Summit • Hyatt Times Square New York • New York City, NY August 6-7, 2015
July
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National hispanic Coalition of Federal Aviation Employees 2015 NHCFAE Conference Crowne Plaza Atlanta – Airport Hotel • Atlanta, GA July 28-30, 2015
National Association of Latino Elected Officials 32nd Annual Conference Aria Resort & Casino Las Vegas, NV June 17-19, 2015
Mcdonald’s hispanic OwnerOperators Association 2015 Biennal MHOA Marketing Symposium • Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Lahaina, HI June 30 – July 2, 2015
m e e t i n g s
hispanic dental Association 25th Conference & Expo Marriott San Antonio Rivercenter • San Antonio, TX August 14-16, 2015
September hispanic National bar Assoc. 40th Annual Convention The Westin Boston Waterfront Boston, MA September 2-5, 2015 National Association of hispanic Journalists (NAhJ) Excellence in Journalism Conference Orlando World Center Marriott Orlando, FL September 18-20, 2015 the National Association of hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAhREP) 2015 National Convention & Latin Music Festival Chicago Hilton • Chicago, IL September 20-22, 2015 US hispanic Chamber of Commerce 36th Annual National Convention • Hilton Americas
the Mcdonald's hispanic Owner-Operators Association will meet at the hyatt Regency Maui in summer 2015. Houston, TX September 20-22, 2015
National Association of hispanic Publications (NAhP) 30th Annual NAHP Convention and Business Expo Marriott DFW • Dallas, TX October 18-20, 2015
October Congressional hispanic Caucus Institute Public Policy Conference & Reyes of Comedy Walter E. Washington Convention Center • Washington, DC October 6-7, 2015
IAhMP 20th Conference Anniversary Tropicana Casino & Resort Atlantic City, NJ October 20-24, 2015
Congressional hispanic Caucus Institute 38th Annual CHCI Awards Gala Walter E. Washington Convention Center • Washington, DC October 8, 2015 hispanic Association of Colleges & Universities (hACU) 29th Annual Conference Fontainebleau Miami Beach Hotel • Miami Beach, FL October 10-12, 2015
November hispanic It Executive Council Q4 Executive Leadership Summit and HITEC 100 Awards Silicon Valley, CA November 5-6, 2015
Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents 12th Annual ALAS Education Summit • Hyatt Albuquerque Albuquerque, NM October 14-17, 2015 hENAAC 27th Annual Conference Hilton Hotel • Pasadena, CA October 14-18, 2015
hispanic television business Conference 13th Hispanic Television Summit The Park Central Hotel New York • New York City, NY October 22, 2015
hispanic American Police Command Officers Association (HAPCOA) 42nd Annual National Training Symposium and Exhibit Fair Sheraton Gunter Hotel San Antonio, TX November 16-20, 2015
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 11
TEXAS MEETING DESTINATIONS
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the WEStIN AUStIN dOWNtOWN Opens Its doors in the Live Music Capital of the World®
estin Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resort, has opened its latest Austin hotel, The Westin Austin Downtown, located in the heart of the city at the corner of San Jacinto Boulevard and Fifth Street. The 19-story hotel, which draws design inspiration from the local music scene, is Westin’s second Austin property, and one of five new openings in North America this year.
the inspiration comes from vintage guitars, so you’ll see many parts of the hotel subtly reflect various guitar components. That, combined with Westin’s signature amenities, will offer
“We wanted to pay homage to all Austin has to offer, and, of course, music is a huge part of that,” said Kristofer Carlson, General Manager of The Westin Austin Downtown. “Most of
Austinites and visitors alike a relaxing-yet-energized stay.” The new Westin offers one of the city’s most spectacular rooftops with uninterrupted 180-degree views of the city.
The Westin Austin Downtown used HKS Architects, Inc. and was designed by Simeone Deary. Upon entering the lobby, guests are transported to a modern-day oasis where they are met with a 12-foot-tall custom-made art piece comprised of charred wood blocks that come together to form the body of a guitar. Incorporating natural design elements, the lobby ceiling and vertical garden mimic the cutouts of a Dobro guitar, while the ballroom floors allude to prints often found on guitar straps. In keeping with the Austin music theme, the hotel will regularly host local musicians in the lounge area.
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TEXAS MEETING DESTINATIONS A relaxing getaway for guests amidst the energy of Austin, the rooftop is home to Azul – the city’s tallest hotel rooftop pool and bar, which features cabanas and a fire pit, as well as the 24-hour Westin WORKOUT® Fitness Studio. The hotel offers its signature Gear Lending program, providing New Balance® shoes and athletic wear for guests who like to pack light. The local Run Concierge is also available to provide guided group runs of Austin’s most well-known sites or recommend routes for guests who would like to explore the city solo.
“Filled with so much vigor and energy, it was only natural that our second hotel in Austin be in the heart of downtown,” said Bob Jacobs, Vice President, Brand Management, Westin Hotels & Resorts and Sheraton Hotels & Resorts. “The Westin Austin Downtown aims to provide guests and locals alike with an escape from the hustle and bustle, while still embracing the city’s culture.”
Up the guitar-string staircase, The Westin Austin Downtown is home to 366 contemporary guest rooms and suites, each featuring a signature Westin Heavenly Bed® to ensure a great night’s sleep, the soothing Heavenly Shower/Bath®, high-speed Internet, plush robes and a 100 percent smokefree environment. The hotel also features the city’s newest restaurant, Stella San Jac, an AustinAmerican restaurant serving eclectic Southern cuisine.
including Joplin, Benson, Paramount, Continental and Moody.
“The new Westin Austin Downtown has already enabled us to make advances in both the size and quality of groups that we are now able to attract with the additional inventory,” said Bob Lander, president and CEO of the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB).
To learn more about The Westin Austin Downtown, visit www.westinaustindowntown.com.
Guests have access to 24-hour inroom dining from the hotel’s fullservice kitchen, and for extra nourishment, The Westin Austin Downtown offers fresh juices and smoothies, SuperFoodsRx choices for adults and The Westin Eat Well Menu for Kids.
The hotel features more than 13,500 square feet of state-of-theart meeting and banquet space, inclusive of 16 individual meeting rooms, each named after a famous Austin musician or venue, www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 13
TEXAS MEETING DESTINATIONS
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Grand Opening of Sheraton McKinney hotel and Conference Center arlier this year Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. announced the opening of the Sheraton McKinney Hotel and Conference Center in McKinney, Texas. The hotel offers 186 guest rooms and suites, ample meeting facilities and all of Sheraton’s signature services and amenities.
Sheraton McKinney is located 30 miles northeast of downtown Dallas and a short drive from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport. Guests will enjoy convenient access to shopping and dining in historic downtown McKinney, plus a wide assortment of recreational activities, such as world-class golf, tennis, and hike and bike trails. Nearby businesses include Emerson Process Management, Raytheon, Torchmark Corporation and Encore Wire.
“We are delighted to welcome travelers to Sheraton McKinney and to one of the fastest growing cities in the United States,” said Ryan Miyamoto, General Manager, Sheraton McKinney. “We look forward to bringing the brand to life and are eager to witness the impact that this hotel will have on the community. As Sheraton embarks on another year of record-breaking growth, the opening of Sheraton McKinney will further reinforce Sheraton as the most global hotel brand.”
The heart of the lobby will feature “Link@Sheraton® experienced with Microsoft®” – the brand’s signature social hub. The hotel’s stylish and comfortable guest rooms are each equipped with an oversized work desk, custom-designed ergonomic chair, highspeed Internet, LCD flat panel television, MP3 docking station and the all-white Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® bed, designed to meet AAA’s Five Diamond Award® criteria. Sheraton Club guests will 14 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
enjoy upgraded amenities, as well as complimentary breakfast, beverages and evening hors d’oeuvres in the Sheraton Club Lounge. Guests will also be able to experience Sheraton Social Hour, the brand’s signature, premium wine program, sampling a selection of highly-rated wines.
“The meeting space and the hotel accommodations in this highprofile development in the city’s gateway will expand our ability to market the city to new corporate clients and visitors," said McKinney Mayor Brian Loughmiller.
Sheraton McKinney features more than 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. The hotel features an outdoor pool, contemporary dining at Sweetwater Bar & Grill and a fully equipped fitness facility featuring the brand’s revolutionary new health and fitness program, Sheraton Fitness by Core® Performance. "The Sheraton McKinney Hotel and Conference Center was designed to provide hospitality, conference and meeting spaces that are all in demand from residents, businesses and visitors to our city,” said MCDC Board Chair Scott Elliott. “We're excited and looking forward to opening day, and the continuing expansion of the city's vision for McKinney's 'front door'." For more information on Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, visit www.sheraton.com.
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the Westin dallas downtown will debut in december 2015 tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. will open a new Starwood managed Westin hotel in the heart of downtown Dallas, Texas. The Westin Dallas Downtown will open by December 2015 as part of an adaptive re-use project that will transform the landmark “One Main Place” complex into the city’s newest lifestyle development. The Westin Dallas Downtown will feature 323 luxurious guest rooms and extensive meeting facilities in a prime location.
Hotel facilities will include a three meal restaurant, a contemporary bar and more than 27,000 square feet of meeting space including a primary ballroom overlooking the eastern courtyard. A one-of-a-kind glass-enclosed event space in the large western courtyard will provide an ideal venue for weddings, social galas and business functions.
The third floor of The Westin Dallas Downtown will be primarily dedicated to conference space and equipped with the latest in meeting technology. The 323 oversized guestrooms will include 21 expansive suites. The 32nd floor will feature additional meeting space with sweeping views of the Trinity River, Victory Park, Reunion Tower, and the historic West End, as well as a Starwood Preferred Guest® executive lounge, two boardrooms, a Westin WORKOUT® studio, and an indoor pool overlooking Main Street.
Conveniently located just five miles from Dallas Love Field, less than twenty miles from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
(DFW), and just one block from the DART light rail, the hotel is easily accessible for all visitors. The Westin Dallas Downtown will be within walking distance of leading attractions including the Dallas Arts District, Victory Park, American Airlines Center, the West End Historic District, Klyde Warren Park, and the Dallas Convention Center. Numerous businesses are headquartered in the area including AT&T, Comerica Bank, Tenet Healthcare, and Neiman Marcus, whose flagship store is just two blocks away on Main Street.
All guestrooms and suites at The Westin Dallas Downtown will feature the world-renowned Westin Heavenly® Bed – featuring lush sheets, down cushioning and a patented pillow-top mattress, which cradles and contours to the body for complete comfort. Guests will revive in the Heavenly® Bath enhanced with the brand’s Heavenly® Shower, Heavenly® Robe and White Tea Aloe bath amenities, in-room and high-speed Internet access. For more information, visit www.westindallasdowntown.com.
hilton Americas-houston Recognized As top-Ranked hotel Expedia Insiders’ Select honors Choice best-reviewed hotels
Hilton Americas-Houston has been named as one of Expedia Insiders’ Select top best-reviewed hotels for 2014, an honor received only by distinguished hotels. Expedia, one of the world’s largest full-service online travel websites, compiles the list of the top hotels and resorts in the world providing superior service and notable value.
Based on nearly 2 million guest reviews submitted to Expedia annually, Hilton Americas-Houston was one of only 650 winners chosen for the exclusive list recognizing the very best hotels and resorts worldwide. Only hotels that consistently deliver value in the form of competitive pricing, pristine amenities and superior customer service are rewarded with this ranking.
“We want all of our guests to feel cared for, valued and respected and are committed to satisfying them through quality service,” commented Joe Palmieri, general manager, Hilton AmericasHouston. “We appreciate our guests and hope to be the hotel of
choice for both returning and new guests.”
Directly connected to the George R. Brown Convention Center, Hilton Americas-Houston contains the city’s largest number of guest rooms, ballrooms, hotel meeting space, and the most technologically advanced services available under one roof. Conveniently situated between Toyota Center and Minute Maid Park, this AAA Four Diamond rated hotel boasts 1,200 elegantly appointed guestrooms, 91,500 square feet of flexible, technologically advanced meeting space, restaurants, lobby bars, coffee emporium and full service spa and health club. For more information, visit www.hilton.com. www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 15
Networking With CVBs One of the best ways to bring value to your event, meeting or convention is by networking with the CVB of the destination you have chosen. From meeting deals, to volunteer opportunities or chances to win fun prizes, CVBs are always providing unique deals to meeting planners who take the time to do a little bit of searching, some digging and a whole lot of networking. Here are a few exciting opportunities we have uncovered from some premiere CVBs.
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Meeting deals in Greater Ft. Lauderdale he Greater Ft. Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau has listed some sizzling meeting deals this summer from several of the city’s top hotel properties. Below are some few deals that stand out. Many more deals can be found at the CVB’s easy to navigate website: www.sunny.org/meetings.
Ocean Sky Hotel and Resort 1-954-565-6611 www.oceanskyresort.com
Meeting Deals: MEETING DEALS 2016 Plan a meeting or special event. Book a group with a minimum of 15 rooms and receive the following: • Groups rates starting at $99 • Complimentary wireless throughout the entire hotel • 10% discount off banquet pricing • 1 upgrade to oceanfront suite at standard room rate • Spectacular ocean view rooms for the entire group • Welcome amenity & welcome Ocean Sky tote Group rate offered 3 days prior and post, 1 per 35 room comp. Rates subject to change and based on availability. Valid May 1 November 30, 2016
Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Airport & Cruise Port Hotel 1-954-920-3500 www.sheratonfortlauderdaleairport.com
Meeting Deals: ENJOY A DISCOUNT AND MORE FOR YOUR MEETINGS AND EVENTS. Get rewarded for your hard work. Book a group at a participating Starwood hotel or resort in the United States, Canada or Latin America, and receive: 16 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
• A 2% discount on master-billed rooms • A signing bonus of 1,000 Starpoints® for every 10 room nights booked, up to 100,000 Starpoints® (certain limitations apply) • Your choice of one of the following: – One complimentary standard room for one night for every eligible 35 paid room nights – One complimentary room-type upgrade for one night for every eligible 35 paid room nights during the event – One complimentary one-hour welcome reception. Book a group and get a trio of rewards. Call a Starwood Sales Associate to book by October 31, 2015, for arrival by December 31, 2015. Learn more: spg.com/meetingvalue.
Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort 1-954-414-2222 www.hilton.com
Meeting Deals: RETREAT TO THE BEACH: Summer Meeting Package includes • Continental breakfast, deli lunch, beverage station, wireless internet • $80 p/p, inclusive of service charge and taxes • End your meeting in spectacular fashion. Enjoy 50% off beverages at BALQONY, Fort Lauderdale's newest oceanfront bar and lounge. Meeting package available Monday thru Friday. Blackout dates apply. Package not available for meetings already contracted. Additional room rental may apply. Contact Rachel Englander at 954-414-2619 for details. Get Deal from 06-23-2015 to 10-31-2015.
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Networking With CVBs
Kansas City Convention hotel Opening in 2018 ansas City Mayor Sly James has announced the development of a $300 million, 800-room convention center hotel near the Kansas City Convention Center.
“America has fallen in love with Kansas City and wants to have its conventions and large meetings here. The proposed agreement is the right development at the right location with the right hotel operator, and now is the right time to do it,” James said.
The proposed hotel would be built on property at 16th and Wyandotte streets, directly across from the Kansas City Convention Center’s Grand Ballroom. Hyatt has been selected to be the hotel operator.
David J. Tarr, senior vice president, real estate and development for Hyatt, said the company is pleased to have been selected as the hotel operator for the new Kansas City Convention Center Hotel.
The convention headquarters hotel will feature approximately • 75,000 square feet of meeting, banquet and pre-convene space • 9,000 square feet of garden/terrace space • 15,450 square feet of other retail, restaurant, bar and lounge space • 9,913-square-foot recreational facility
• A parking facility with 450-500 spaces The site maximizes and centralizes convention hotel meeting space in close proximity to the Grand Ballroom and related meeting space of the Kansas City Convention Center/Bartle Hall. It centralizes ballroom and meeting space to the east of the Convention Center, closer to many downtown amenities. The site is a short walk from the Power & Light District, Sprint Center and the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. It will also be steps from the new streetcar line opening in 2016.
“This convention center hotel plan fills a need for the city and has significant opportunity to move Kansas City forward,” said Julia Irene Kauffman, chairman and chief executive officer of the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Foundation. “Much thought and attention to detail has gone into the plan. The hotel will be a great complement not only to the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, but to other downtown attractions, such as the Convention Center, Sprint Center and Power & Light District.”
Construction is slated to begin in early 2016 and be completed in 2018. For more information about Kansas City’s proposed convention center hotel or to see renderings of the project, visit www.HereToStayKC.com or www.VisitKC.com.
San diego tourism Authority Meeting and Convention hotel News
The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego overlooking San Diego Bay has completed a meeting space renovation, one of several planned renovations throughout the property that began in 2012. In total, 136,000 sq. ft. of meeting space was remodeled with a “California coastal” color palate, new lighting fixtures, art, architecture and audio visual technology. The Coronado meeting space, Seaport (formally known as Elizabeth Ballroom), Harbor Ballroom, America’s Cup room and the 34,000sq.-ft. Grand Hall are among the renovated areas. The construction included upgrading the Kin Spa to become the chic Marilyn Monroe Spa and turning unfinished concrete storage space on the 32nd floor into an exclusive meetings venue with amazing bay views. Lael’s Breakfast Restaurant has reopened as Seaview: a dining space by day and event venue by night featuring a new patio option for outdoor dining. Renovations to Top of the Hyatt cocktail lounge with stunning views of San Diego Bay will be complete in September 2015.
The Marriott Marquis San Diego & Marina broke ground on a new $107 million dollar ballroom expansion project that will add two new 36,000-sq.-ft. rooms overlooking the San Diego skyline and a 25,000-sq.-ft. outdoor terrace overlooking the bay. The renovation is expected to be complete by June 2016. 18 HM&T | Hispanic Meetings & Travel
In March 2015, Hilton San Diego Mission Valley completed a $12 million renovation including a new outdoor event deck and new onsite restaurant called Polcano Kitchen & Bar, serving Latin-style cuisine and led by executive chef Nicholas Villamil. The 350-room hotel’s lobby and interior spaces have been redesigned, including a new city view executive lounge. The property’s 21,000 sq. ft. of meeting and event spaces have also been renovated, adding a demonstration kitchen with retractable doors and a hot-stone granite buffet. The hotel now offers an artisan food marketplace for meals and other items available for to-go purchase, along with a Starbucks espresso bar and a new fitness center. The outdoor event and pool spaces have new furnishings and allow for alfresco dining year-round.
Keep up to date with San Diego’s meeting venue updates by visiting www.sandiego.org.
Networking With CVBs VisitNorfolk looks forward to improving your experience in Norfolk through Voluntourism! What is it? Voluntourism provides travelers the opportunity to blend purpose with passion by offering volunteer service opportunities within local communities.
VisitNorfolk recognizes the importance of giving back to the community. We know that visitors to our city, whether convention attendees or leisure travelers, often express the desire to serve the destination and its residents. In response to this need, we partner with select local attractions as well as VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads to provide our visitors with the opportunity to include volunteer service into their overall itinerary.
Local attractions offering voluntourism opportunities include . . .
Norfolk Botanical Garden, contact Amanda Wells, volunteer services manager, at volunteer@nbgs.org
Virginia Zoological Park, contact Meg Puckett, Volunteer Coordinator, at meg.puckett@norfolk.gov
Hermitage Museum & Gardens, contact Colin Brady, Curator of Interpretation, at cbrady@thehermitagemuseum.org
Virginia Arts Festival, Volunteer with world renowned dancers, and musicians. Contact Sandy Miller at smiller@vafest.org.
Volunteer to be a steward of a “greener” environment:
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is dedicated solely to saving the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Contact Tanner Council at tcouncil@cbf.org.
The Learning Barge, offers learning and volunteer opportunities, and is the brainchild of The Elizabeth River Project, whose focus is on restoring the health of the region’s great harbor river. Contact: Robin Dunbar at rdunbar@elizabethriver.org
VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads is the nonprofit resource center for southeastern Virginia. Established in 1957, the mission is to strengthen the community by building the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations, connecting people with volunteer opportunities and promoting volunteerism. Team Works: Team Works is a unique program designed to assist groups with volunteer opportunities. VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads handles the logistics and project management for a seamless, well executed volunteer service project that is guaranteed to provide optimum impact and yield high return on investment. For more information visit www.visitnorfolktoday.com/voluntourism.
Networking With CVBs
Make it Milwaukee! Located on beautiful Lake Michigan with an exceptional blend of meeting facilities and entertainment, Milwaukee is a destination with an unexpected “wow” factor. And you may be surprised to learn that the city also has a dynamic and growing Hispanic community, representing 17 percent of the population. Thriving Latino neighborhoods, rich in locally-owned businesses, reflect a deep sense of pride in community and are waiting to welcome Hispanic meeting attendees.
Located in the city center, the budget-friendly convention campus features the Wisconsin Center with 189,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space, with partner facilities the Milwaukee Theatre and the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena offering additional event space.
The Milwaukee area’s wide range of hotels provides more than 16,000 hotel rooms with 3,300 within walking distance of the Wisconsin Center. New in 2014, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino’s meeting package includes a 381-room hotel with additional meeting space, and currently under construction, a boutique Kimpton Hotel will add flair to the downtown hotel scene in 2016.
Stroll the scenic RiverWalk to the trendy Historic Third Ward and have a margarita at the bustling Milwaukee Public Market. Explore the Harley-Davidson Museum or enjoy the popular annual Mexican Fiesta – it’s all waiting for you in Milwaukee.
And located only eight miles from downtown, General Mitchell International Airport is one of the country’s most affordable major airports with non-stop service to 35 cities. Milwaukee – make your next meeting happen here.
For more information: Gus Martinez, Convention Sales Manager gmartinez@milwaukee.org 414/287-4242 www.visitmilwaukee.org/meeting-planners
Networking With CVBs St. Augustine, Florida’s Meetings & Incentives Special Offers EARN TRIP & TICKETS TO THE PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP!!
THE PLAYERS Championship which occurs each May in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL is one of the most exciting events in golf. Often referred to as "the 5th Major" it features the largest purse for a PGA event. Book through the Visitors & Convention Bureau to earn various levels of trip participation, depending on the number of room nights contracted.
Book 1,000 room nights or more and earn: 4 days/3 nights accommodations, round trip airfare for two (2), one (1) round of golf for two (2) and two (2) grounds tickets for all four (4) days of tournament golf.
Book 750 - 999 room nights and earn: 3 days/ 2 nights accommodations, one (1) round of golf for two (2) and two (2) grounds tickets for three (3) days of tournament golf on Thursday, Friday & Saturday. Book 500 - 749 room nights and earn: 2 days/ 1 night accommodation and two (2) grounds tickets for two (2) days of tournament golf on Thursday and Friday.
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The famous 17th Island hole at TPC Sawgrass To be eligible to receive this incentive, planners and operators must meet the following criteria: All booking opportunities must be NEW business with RFP's submitted to Glenn Graham, director of conference sales, St Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors & Convention Bureau via e-mail to ggraham@floridashistoriccoast.com.
All contracted bookings for the 12 months March 1 through February 28 will apply cumulatively toward total room nights. Bookings must be contracted and on file with the St Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors & Convention Bureau by March 1st each year to qualify for that years’ tournament. Visit www.floridashistoriccoast.com for more information.
educationinitiatives Starwood hotels & Resorts Worldwide Joins the White house’s UpSkill America Program
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Starwood Expands and Enhances Its Associate development tarwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. has a rich history of identifying talented entry-level associates and cultivating their skills into increasingly challenging positions. At Starwood there are many examples of associates who started working at the front desk or as a room attendant who advanced to positions of Supervisor, Manager or even Regional Director.
It’s in this spirit of possibility that Starwood is pleased to announce today its participation in UpSkill America, a public-private initiative led by the US Department of Education to identify front-line employees and give them the training needed to advance their careers. This year Starwood joined labor leaders, non-profits, educators, technology innovators and other employers for the White House Upskill Summit in Washington, D.C., to share best practices.
As part of its commitment to UpSkill America, Starwood will expand and enhance its existing Associate Development Program (ADP) that has already graduated more than 800 associates within the last five years from owned and managed North American properties.
“At Starwood, we are dedicated to the professional development of our associates in North America and in all of our 1,200 properties around the world,” said Kelly Frank, Senior Vice President Corporate Human Resource Services and Americas Human Resources at Starwood. “The Associate Development Program gives our people hands-on, real-world learning experiences that they can apply immediately. It also structures the learning in an accessible way for hotels to prepare the next generation of managers and leaders. The UpSkill America initiative invites us to learn from other industry-leading companies and challenges us to make an already successful program even better.”
Starwood’s program, initially launched in 2003 as a pilot in Arizona and New York and later expanded throughout Canada and the United States, selects high-potential associates to undergo approximately six months of training that could include crossfunctional learning, exposure to senior leaders, mentoring or coaching and presentations and projects related to the skills they learn in the program.
Taylor Spotleson, who started at Starwood working in food and beverage in Scottsdale at The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa in 2007, followed her passion to Human Resources at The Phoeni-
cian in 2010, and after completing the Associate Development Program in 2011 she assisted with the opening of The Westin Snowmass Resort in Colorado. She continued to advance her career as the Human Resources Manager for the Aloft Tucson
University in 2012 and then accepted a role supporting regional Human Resources in late 2013.
“ADP has opened many doors by providing me new experiences and creating a network of wonderful mentors and business part-
ners to help me navigate my career and reach my potential,” Spotleson said. “The program has given me on-property and
regional opportunities as well as wide industry experience by working at a Five Diamond resort, opening and transitioning hotels, and providing regional support to our hotels.” Starwood’s UpSkill America 2015 Goals
Through UpSkill America, Starwood commits to enhancing its
Associate Development Program through greater exposure and training for job growth opportunities, graduating 100 ADP partic-
ipants in 2015, and rolling out the expanded program to its entire North America portfolio of more than 500 owned, managed and franchise properties. As part of the expanded program, Starwood will track hotel participation, graduation rates, and career progression of participants following graduation.
“ADP will not only prepare front-line associates for critical job
advancement opportunities, but it also will contribute to increased retention among high-potential associates and foster collabora-
tion among departments within a property,” said Erica Reidy,
Director of Learning and Development for the Americas at Star-
wood. “We’re excited by the opportunity to participate in UpSkill America and I’m looking forward to sharing our best practices and learning from other company leaders.”
www.hispanicmeetingstravel.com | HM&T 23
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.
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
Angela GonzalezRowe
President & CEO, AGR Hospitality Solutions, LLC CDMP USA Trainer
Terry Singleton, CSEP, CDMP President CCP Events CDMP USA Trainer