Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/770136
CONTENTS B L A C K M E E T I N G S & T O U R I S M COVER STORY 19 19 VOLUME 23, ISSUE 7, 2016 Some planners are under the misconception that second tier means second rate. Nothing could be fur- ther from the truth. Among the most popular and attractive destinations are many that are considered second tier. And yet they offer world-class accommoda- tions, cutting edge meeting facilities and top-of-the-line services, not to mention great attractions, fascinating history and culture, and superb dining – all those things that make any travel experience memorable. BM&T has offered 10 possibilities here for your consideration in Second Tier: Top Choice. By Rufus McKinney 4 Publisher's Message 5 Calendar of Events 6 In The News 8 Hotel Happenings 11 Newsmakers 12 Speaking of People 14 Religious Review 16 Caribbean Corner 30 Travel Data 31 From Motherland 32 Cruise News 18 Property Profile 14 TPOC News Briefs D E P A R T M E N T S 34 Oregon 35 Michigan 38 Hawaii 39 Barbado 40 Maryland A R E A G U I D E S 3 B M & T ••• July/August 2016 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com Copyright: Denver CVB Art Museum 15 15 While press coverage has made Pittsburgh synony- mous with "hip," the success and creativity of local chefs hasn't gone unnoticed. In 2014, Bon Appétit proclaimed Pittsburgh "The Next Big Food Town." In 2015, Zagat, the noted source for restaurant reviews, named Pittsburgh the nation's "No. 1 Food City." Pittsburgh Dining: It's The Whole Enchilada reports on why meeting planners and their "foodie" delegates need to check out this city and partake of its culinary offerings. FEATURES 13 13 Jamaica's premiere trade event, JAPEX – Jamaica's Tourism Showcase, was hosted by the Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Association from April 29, to May 1, 2016, pro- viding two days of pre-scheduled appointments that allowed wholesalers, tour operators and travel agents to meet face-to-face with over 200 of Jamaica's leading tourism suppliers. By Matt Thomas