Each year, The San Luis Resort works closely with several colleges that offer Hospitality Leadership programs to offer students internships to explore the hospitality industry.  University partners include The University of Houston Conrad Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership, Texas Tech's Hospitality and Retail Management, Stephen F. Austin's Hospitality Management program, and Texas A&M's Department of Hospitality, Hotel Management and Tourism.  

The San Luis Resort Director of Human Resources and Regional Director of Room Operations attend job/internship fairs to speak to students about internship opportunities at The San Luis Resort and then select up to 15 candidates for the summer program. They are then placed in positions that provide them with hands-on experience to apply what they have learned in their studies. Each student is matched with a job in their area of interest or where they will receive the most value. They then work that position until the final two weeks of the program when they then rotate between the other departments to learn the operations of each.  This gives each student the opportunity to see how every department works together to create an optimal guest experience.

Congratulations to all of The San Luis Resort summer 2023 interns:

Yasmin Macouzet, University of Houston - San Luis Activities

Mustiful Mitchell, Texas Tech - San Luis - Front Desk & Activities

Cade  DeRide, Texas Tech - San Luis - Bellman/Valet

Isabella Giovannini, University of Houston - San Luis - Front Desk/Activities & HR

Shmar Hunter, Texas Tech - San Luis - Retail

Giselle Moyeda, Texas Tech - San Luis - Front Desk

Masidean Williams, Texas Tech - San Luis - Kitchen

Vincent Duy Dao, University of Houston - San Luis - Kitchen

Jessica Mendoza, University of Houston - Hilton - Front Desk

Bianca Heitz, University of Houston- San Luis - Retail

BUDA, TEXAS — Buda Economic Development Corporation (EDC) unveiled a new brand platform in May to bring a fresh and modern look to the brand, reinforce entrepreneurism and promote a curated approach to business growth in Buda. The brand platform was comprehensive including a new logo, color palette, tagline and messaging strategy. 

Buda EDC partnered with Arsenal Advertising, who have worked on branding for destinations like Bastrop County, Round Rock, Lubbock, and Taylor, Texas, as well as businesses like Torchy’s Tacos, Texas Exes, and LBJ Library.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Buda EDC Executive Director Jennifer Storm, who previously served as Board President for nearly 4 years. “Buda EDC started more than 20 years ago when the city had about 4,000 citizens. Now, with more than 16,000 citizens, Buda EDC is serving more businesses than ever before. This rebrand reflects that growth and our passionate support of Buda’s thriving business community.”

“We carefully selected a new color palette with blues and greens that symbolize both the beauty of the city’s natural surroundings and greenspace and the renewal of the city’s commitment to business growth, entrepreneurship and long term planning, “ said Jonathan Smith, Arsenal Advertising’s Creative Director.

Of particular importance to Buda EDC and Arsenal Advertising has been addressing a common pronunciation predicament. They address this by adding the macron (the straight line) above the letter U in the logo.

Later this year, Buda EDC will launch a more robust and responsive website to better serve Buda businesses and potential businesses as well as a multimedia advertising campaign to increase awareness of Buda’s strong business climate.

“Buda provides unprecedented financial incentives for businesses, entrepreneurs and unique concepts interested in making Buda their home. Through creativity and collaboration we bring new opportunities that add to the fabric of our beloved Buda,” said Storm.

About Buda Economic Development Corporation: 

Buda is located just south of Austin and is one of the fastest growing cities in Texas. Buda Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has played a significant role in carefully curating Buda’s business landscape through strategic incentives and support. As stewards of taxpayer dollars, Buda EDC ensures each new business will aid in Buda’s economic sustainability while also preserving a crafted culture and high quality of life for residents. For more information, visit www.budaedc.com, Facebook @BudaEDC, Instagram @BudaEDC, LinkedIn.

Contact:

Tammy Kotzur, Executive Director

Port Arthur Convention and Visitors Bureau

tammy@portarthurtexas.com

409.985.7822

PORT ARTHUR IS OFFICIALLY THE CAJUN CAPITAL OF TEXAS

If you didn’t already consider Port Arthur the Cajun Capital of Texas, it’s official now.

During this 88^th Texas legislative session, the house and senate passed a bill and the governor signed it into legislation on June 9, 2023.

Let the Good Times Roll! We’re about the history, the music, the food, the culture, the hospitality and even the proximity. Cajun Cousins are on both sides of the Texas-Louisiana border on the Upper Texas Gulf Coast.

We’ve been calling ourselves the Cajun Capital in our hearts for years. For 45 years Allie and Ellie Gator have fallen in love and married before visitors, politicians and locals. Crawfish boils are family reunions and formal affairs.  Gumbo is Christmas dinner. The music gets you two-stepping. After several capitol visits and many votes later, we're announcing what we knew all along:

This official designation is good for the next 10 years. But in this Quasquicentennial year for Port Arthur – celebrating 125 years – we know in our Cajun hearts we’ll be celebrating this culture for years to come.

Our diverse city reflects many cultures including Mexican-American, Vietnamese, African-American, Italian and more. This effort to recognize our Cajun background brought residents together to celebrate our history and culture. We're all Texan, and a lot like our Louisiana neighbors.

The Port Arthur Convention & Visitors Bureau began researching the designation, working with support from the City of Port Arthur, Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce, Port of Port Arthur, Museum of the Gulf Coast, Lamar State College-Port Arthur and other groups. Esther Benoit, Port Arthur’s Cajun Queen of Esther’s Restaurant fame, as well as James LaBove, Sabine Pass-raised author of Cotton’s Seafood series, wrote letters of support.

Texas House Representative Christian Manuel took our resolutions and proclamations full of “whereas” points and introduced his legislation to the House of Representatives at Golden Triangle Days in Austin. Senator Brandon Creighton then followed to carry this legislation through the Senate.

Our quest - called House Concurrent Resolution 61 -proceeded through the House and Senate and became official when Governor Abbott signed it into action.

We appreciate our state representatives in supporting us to recognize this long history and unite residents throughout this project.

The Port Arthur Convention and Visitors Bureau is the official Destination Marketing 0rganization for Port Arthur, Texas. We keep visitors and locals in the know on our natural views and things to do, to enhance economic development. For more information on why we’re the Cajun Capital of Texas, events, hotels, good eating and bird-friendly practices, visit www.visitportarthurtx.com

Port Arthur is the Cajun Capital of Texas:

https://visitportarthurtx.com/blog/port-arthur-is-the-cajun-capital-of-texas/

Photo Library: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hszmc7xfpwl7idb/AABMvO_cEiCBtNRCb1x60T03a?dl=0

CONTACT:   Rose Jordan 

Director of Tourism 

Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce/ Visit Mineral Wells 

                        (682) 225-3315

    (940) 325-2557

    tourism@mineralwellstx.com

MINERAL WELLS DESIGNATED OFFICIAL WELLNESS CAPITAL OF TEXAS 

A history of wellness brings a small Texas town big visions for modern models of health and tourism 

MINERAL WELLS, TX June 18, 2023 Mineral Wells, Texas was officially designated as the “Wellness Capital of Texas” today by the Texas state legislature. The state governing body assigns these “place designations” to destinations that provide historical or cultural significance. Mineral Wells, with its distinct historic nature, confluence of natural bounty, and earnest desire to elevate the lives of its community as well as attract likeminded visitors, is uniquely suited to the title.  

“We are thrilled to be named the “Wellness Capital of Texas,’” said Rose Jordan, director of tourism for the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce. “Since our founding days, Mineral Wells has been built upon the most fundamental of elements – water. The mineral-rich water that springs from our wells is healthful, healing, and pure. But beyond the water, Mineral Wells has so much to offer the wellness-minded visitor. We aim to use the foundation of our natural bounty – mineral water, lakes, rivers, parks and more, to build a healthful future for the people of Mineral Wells, and Texas.”  

From its founding days, Mineral Wells has been associated with wellness. In 1881 settlers flocked to the area to partake in what were considered healing waters. Mineral water drawn from local wells had, and still has, some of the highest mineral content in the world. While several companies drilled and marketed the waters, it was the brand Crazy Water that stuck and is still today a key player in Mineral Wells’ identity and community. Crazy Water is consumed statewide and a favorite of athletes for its recuperative benefits.  

With this new wellness designation, Mineral Wells is set to restore the city’s core identity and shine the spotlight on the Texas wellness industry by bringing increased visibility, attracting wellness tourism, and boosting the local economy. 

“Mineral Wells is a small city with big ambitions,” said Mineral Wells Mayor Regan Wallace Johnson. “We know that we have a treasure in our hands with our geography and natural resources, but what is most exciting is the energy our community is putting into evolving and embracing a new fruitful and healthful future. This designation from the state is the first major step of many we have mapped out.” 

These steps are established by the city to improve the wellbeing of its residents and build an identity to reach potential travelers seeking a wellness destination.  Healthy Mineral Wells, a local wellness committee consisting of business owners and residents, set their sights on achieving criteria associated with the Wellness Tourism Association. The committee is focused on improved access to healthy food and mental health care, wellness education, promoting outdoor activities, increasing lodging options, and the encouragement of modalities such as mineral baths and spas.  

A key driver of wellness tourism is experiences in nature, and Mineral Wells provides an abundance of outdoor offerings. In addition to the mineral-rich water for drinking and bathing, Mineral Wells is home to three state parks, four lakes, and the widest stretch of the Brazos River for kayaking and canoeing. Plus, more than thirty miles of hiking/biking trails, the only natural rock-climbing area in North Texas, botanical gardens at Clark Gardens and the National Vietnam War Museum – and both have labyrinths!  

In addition to becoming the “Wellness Capital of Texas,” Mineral Wells has exciting news in business developments, tourism infrastructure, community events and more. The recently renovated historic Crazy Water Hotel reopened in the heart of town with 54 rooms, event space, retail and more. Soon to join it will be the landmark Baker Hotel & Spa, a 14-story Spanish Colonial Revival tower coming back to life with 165 guest rooms as well as a spa with mineral baths, convention and business facilities, event ballrooms, and restaurant, coffee shop and retail options. The Baker Hotel is scheduled to open in 2025. 

Additionally, Visit Mineral Wells along with its tourism and wellness committees recently launched Crazy Wellness Retreats - a community collaboration with Palo Pinto General Hospital, Clark Gardens, Crazy Water, and Lake Mineral Wells State Park to organize quarterly wellness retreats that showcase local restaurants, activities, wellness practitioners and more.  

Further edifying Mineral Wells’ positioning is its recent slate of Texas Travel Awards. The Texas Travel awards recognizes and celebrates top travel destinations and attractions across the Lone Star State. Mineral Well is proud to be recognized in the following categories: Best Visitor Center and Best Under the Radar Activity for the Mineral Wells Fossil Park (by population); Best Revitalization of Downtown (statewide); and Best Destination for Outdoor Adventure (People’s Choice.) 

“We want to thank Rep. Rogers for authoring and carrying this bill for us,” said Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO David May. “Mineral Wells was built on health and wellness. From our mineral-rich water to our outdoor playgrounds nestled in the beautiful Palo Pinto Mountains, we are cultivating health and wellness for the mind, body and soul. If you haven’t been to Mineral Wells and Palo Pinto County, make plans to come relax, rejuvenate and have fun.”

About Mineral Wells, Texas 

Mineral Wells is located in North Central Texas’ Palo Pinto and Parker counties. Named for wells initially dug in 1881, the town became a wellness destination when the water’s high mineral content was associated with curative benefits. Today Mineral Wells, “Where Texas Runs Deep,” is again on the rise as a wellness destination luring visitors with its mineral baths, parks, rivers and gardens, new hotels and rich community spirit. For more information on Mineral Wells tourism attributes visit www.mineralwells.org. 

KERRVILLE, TX, [April 2023]-- Kerrville Convention and Visitors Bureau, with the assistance of Arsenal Advertising, has completed an extensive rebranding effort in response to accelerated growth in the Texas Hill Country and a desire to create a genuine and authentic brand that captures the full extent of Kerrville's surroundings and offerings. At the heart of this rebranding is a refreshed, modernized logo that reflects the spirit of Kerrville and the people and businesses that call it home.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the work Arsenal has done for us,” said Julie Davis, President and CEO of the Kerrville Convention & Visitors Bureau. “A fresh approach to our brand will serve us well into the next decade as it embodies the spirit of innovation that founded our town while inspiring visitors to discover Kerrville’s unique offerings.”

Over the past 6 months, Arsenal’s team conducted in-depth discovery for the Kerrville CVB that included focus groups and interviews, competitor analysis, analytics review, and brand assessment. Arsenal’s research revealed that the town’s innovative culture was inspired by its early pioneer settlers as well as other local craftsmen like James Avery. However, Kerrville was still a lesser-known tourist destination with branding focused more on its hill country location than its unique and eclectic offerings. The notion of visitors ‘crafting’ their own experience quickly became a theme of the new brand, which is paired with a more modern and artistic logo to appeal to visitors of all ages. 

“This was a major undertaking for Kerrville CVB, but timed perfectly as tourism within the Texas Hill Country continues to grow at a rapid pace,” said Jonathan Smith, Creative Director, Arsenal Advertising. “We are honored to help elevate the brand in a way that feels natural to what makes Kerrville a truly special Texas destination.” 

The Kerrville CVB’s new branding will now capture the four pillars that are central to the city:

·         Outdoor: The Guadalupe River and surrounding green hills create the perfect landscape for outdoor experiences.

·         Nostalgia: From pioneer spirit to generational travelers, the history and charm of Kerrville bring about warm feelings of nostalgia.

·         Culture: Art, culture, and innovation drive our town. Visitors of all ages can craft a diverse and unique experience with every visit.

·         Culinary: Kerrville’s culinary focus and commitment to craft cuisine surprises and delights visitors.

The brand’s new tagline, ‘Texas, Crafted Beautifully,’ is a delightful play on words to capture the beauty of the sprawling hills and sparkling waters that surround Kerrville paired with the crafted experiences that await visitors.

By embodying its history and bringing forward the ideal of discovery and artistry that continue to define the hill country destination, Kerrville is perfectly poised for a beautiful future.

About Kerrville Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Kerrville Convention & Visitors Bureau is the destination marketing organization that promotes and markets Kerrville as a premier visitor, convention and meeting destination to provide a positive economic impact on the community and reduce the tax burden on residents. Visitors to beautifully crafted Kerrville feel inspired as they stroll the historic downtown, uncover an antique gem, pedal through riverside trails or enjoy a handcrafted meal. Kerrville's green hills and sparkling waters set the tone for a peaceful and relaxed visit to the Texas Hill Country. Just as the Guadalupe River crafts its own path through Kerrville, visitors can craft their own experience.

Media Contact:

Rebekah Epstein                                                                

fifteen media

rebekah@fifteen-media.com

210.315.9664