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10 10 B M & T ••• September/October 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 3 CONTENTS 20 20 49 49 37 37 VOLUME 31, ISSUE 5, SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2024 4 Publisher's Message 5 Calendar of Events 6 In The News 8 Newsmakers 12 BA 250 13 Pacesetters 14 Hotel Happenings 16 Center of Attention – San Jose 32 Center of Attention – Paducah 44 Center of Attention – Orlando 45 Property Profile 50 Cruise News 52 Caribbean Corner 54 Alabama 56 Alaska 57 Arizona 58 Houston 59 New Mexico 60 North Carolina 62 South Carolina 66 USVI COVER STORY FEATURES DEPARTMENT AREA GUIDES With its blend of sheer beauty, rich heritage and southern hospi- tality, Virginia is the perfect meeting destination. Whether hosting a meeting on a mountain vista or a conference in a state-of-the-art convention center, value and quality customer service are key bene- fits. The Virginia Special Section examines the possibilities. By Solomon J. Herbert II 22 22 America's vast Midwestern region, in the heart of the United States, creates an environment merging a combi- nation of rich U.S. history with top level hospitality. The region has an assortment of destinations Meeting Planners will surely enjoy exploring for their client's next big event. African-American Guide to Meetings, Incentives & Traveling in the Midwest takes a look at the options offered by this region. By Solomon J. Herbert II Nestled on the west coast of Florida, Tampa has long been cele- brated for its vibrant culture, scenic waterfront, and dynamic busi- ness environment. This year, it played host to the Destinations International (DI) Conference for Tourism, drawing professionals from around the globe to discuss the future of the tourism industry. Discovering Tampa Bay at the DI Convention reports on Destinations Internationals event and how well Tampa Bay hosted it. By Zyan Avraham 18 18 40 40 33 33 Where Meetings Are More Fun! explores Coastal Mississippi as the ultimate meetings and events destination. In Coastal Mississippi, you will discover nearly 16,000 hotel rooms with flexible meeting spaces and accommodations throughout the region. Traveling to this destination can be as easy as a drive away or even a plane ride with immediate access to the Gulfport-Biloxi Internat- ional Airport. Exploring Xi'an, Beijing, and Shanghai: A Jour ney Well Worth Taking shares the experience of traveling to China, a land of ancient wonders, rich heritage and innovation. By Toni Walker Nicola Madden-Greig, president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), has always had an interest in people and organizing events. It started while she was attending the all-girls Catholic high school, Convent of Mercy Academy (Alpha) in her native Kingston, Jamaica, where she was part of the social club, the arts society, dance society, and the key club. A Conversation With Nicola Madden-Greig tells the whole story. By Darlene Donloe When was the last time fun and relaxation was a pri- ority on your meeting agenda? Santa Barbara Wine Country is a treasure trove of natural beauty, world-class wines, and unique outdoor experiences. The Ultimate Balance: Discover Highway West Vacations in Santa Barbara Wine Country and Rediscover the Joy of Planning tells how it's done. By Toni Walker BL ACK MEETINGS & TOURISM LLC Chicago's McCormick Place Creating generational wealth is frequently dis- cussed, but college students often face challenges in accessing mentorship, coaching, and opportunities for growth. This summer, select business and tourism & hospitality management students were privileged to participate in the 28th Annual International African American Hotel Ownership & Investment Summit & Trade Show Conference in Miami, Florida. Navigating The Waves of The Industry explains how this will impact the students' lives. By Greg DeShields and Shawn Andre Murray