Wednesday, June 26 | Virginia Beach Convention Center

SuperHost is a customer service training that consists of an engaging classroom session driving home key factors of excellent customer service, a discussion highlighting important statistics that show the economic importance of tourism to Virginia Beach and a refresher course on area attractions, green practices and other valuable tourist information. The SuperHost customer information guide will be distributed.

The second SuperHost Customer Service Training Session will be held on Wednesday, June 26, at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Click on the link below to register.

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May 3 - 12, 2013

(Coastal, Va.) - The Coastal Virginia Tourism Alliance (CVTA) celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) May 4-12, 2013. NTTW celebrations are taking place throughout the region including award luncheons and rallies recognizing front-line hospitality employees for their exceptional service. According to the U.S. Travel Association, visitors spend $4.2 billion annually in Coastal Virginia alone, resulting in over $316 million annually in state and local tax receipts.

As a token of appreciation for the major contribution that employees and visitors provide to the tourism industry, representatives from Chesapeake, Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, Eastern Shore, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Smithfield/Isle of Wight, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Norfolk International Airport and Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport are hosting or participating in events beginning Friday, May 3 through Sunday, May 12 within the region. Here is the schedule of regional events:

Friday, May 3

Coastal Virginia - "Thank the Visitor Day" mascots, booths and banners
8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Norfolk International Airport

Coastal Virginia - "Thank the Visitor Day"
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., East Coast Gateway Welcome Center, New Kent County

Chesapeake - "Find your U.O.U. in Chesapeake Photo Contest" April 1-May 4; Winners announced May 4-12, www.visitchesapeake.com/national-tourism-week

Monday, May 6

Newport News - "Where in the World. . ." tourism awareness contest begins
May 6-22, Contest entry forms at www.newport-news.org

Tuesday, May 7

Newport News - "Industry Familiarization Tour"
8:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., Various Newport News attractions

Hampton - "Hampton National Tourism Week Breakfast Celebration"
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Hampton Roads Convention Center

Norfolk - "Champions of Hospitality" Rally
1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., Half Moone Cruise & Celebration Center

Wednesday, May 8

Newport News - "Celebrate Newport News: NTTW Luncheon"
Noon to 1:30 p.m., Newport News Marriott at City Center

Newport News - "ZOOM IN on Newport News" Photo Contest Kick-Off
Winners announced November 2013, Details at www.newport-news.org

Thursday, May 9

Newport News - "Newport News Hospitality Day"
11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., City Center at Oyster Point - Fountain Area

Friday, May 10

Hampton - "Hampton's History, America's History Tour"
9 a.m. to 12 noon, Hampton History Museum & Visitor Center

Virginia Beach - "NTTW Hospitality Awards Luncheon"
11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Virginia Beach Convention Center (Ballroom)

Smithfield & Isle of Wight County -
"Hospitality Hero's and Community Ambassadors Celebration"
5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Smithfield Visitor/Art Center, 319 Main Street

Friday, May 31

Hampton - "Hampton Star Ambassador Tour"
9 a.m. to 12 noon, Hampton History Museum & Visitor Center

The Coastal Virginia Tourism Alliance is a forum for destination marketing organizations to advance a greater awareness of the tourism and hospitality industry as a major economic generator, promote Coastal Virginia as a destination and encourage development and growth of tourism and hospitality businesses and venues throughout the region. For more information, visit the Alliance's website www.visitcoastalvirginia.com.

Media is invited to attend any of the listed events. Please contact the city's representative below to coordinate attendance. Contact Information:

ChesapeakeBay Bridge-Tunnel - Paige Addison, (757) 331-2960

Chesapeake Convention & Visitors Bureau - Kimberly Murden, (757) 502-4898

City of Portsmouth - Lynette James, (757) 393-5143 ext. 5203

Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance - Robert Harris, (757) 253-2262

Hampton CVB - Mary Fugere, (757) 728-5327

Newport News Tourism Development Office - Cindy Brouillard, (757) 926-1400

Norfolk International Airport - Charlie Braden, (757) 857-3351

Smithfield & Isle of Wight CVB - Judy Winslow, (757) 357-2476

Suffolk Division of Tourism- Theresa Earles, (757) 514-4130

Virginia Beach CVB - Tiffany Twine, (757) 385-6646

VisitNorfolk - Erin Filarecki, (757) 664-6620 ext. 616

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11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Virginia Beach Convention Center

In celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week, the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau and the hospitality industry held their 24^th Annual National Travel and Tourism Week Luncheon and Awards Celebration on Friday, May 10 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Nearly 500 industry representatives, as well as, state, regional and local dignitaries celebrated the "best of the best" front-line employees during this important event. Twenty-eight individual awards were presented to front-line employees who went "above and beyond" to make Virginia Beach a place visitors look forward to visiting year after year. Mayor Sessoms, of Virginia Beach and James B. Ricketts, Director of the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau provided comments and Jim Spore, City Manager of Virginia Beach, also participated in the awards ceremony.

Here are the 2013 Winners:

• Carlos Wilson Lifetime Achievement Award
  • Carmen Solares, The Cavalier Hotel
• Attraction
  • David Hopson, Beachevents
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
  • Teresa Diaz, Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau
• Hotel: Activities, Spa & Fitness Coordinator
  • Betsy Doxey, Ocean Key Resort
• Hotel: Banquet/Catering
  • Fran Sebastian, VB Resort Hotel & Conference Center
• Hotel: Clerical/Front Office
  • Donna Dennings, Wyndham VB Oceanfront
• Hotel: Continental Breakfast Attendant
  • Josef Sarate, Holiday Inn & Suites North Beach
• Hotel: Front Desk
  • Keith Monton, SpringHill Suites VB Oceanfront
  • Danielle Villanueva, Atrium Resort
• Hotel: Housekeeping
  • Annalese Spence, SpringHill Suites, VB Oceanfront
  • Debbie Williams, Wyndham VB Oceanfront
• Hotel: Laundry
  • Aja Perthold, Homewood Suites by Hilton VB/Norfolk Airport
• Hotel: Maintenance
  • Dave Heasly, Courtyard by Marriott VB/Norfolk
• Hotel: Sales Manager
  • Stephanie Hall, Hilton VB Oceanfront
• Hotel: Valet
  • Mark Strawn, The Westin VB Town Center
• Outside Banquet/Catering
  • Andre Johns, Distinctive Gourmet
• Public Service
  • Peggy Breslin, Virginia Beach CVB - Visitor Services Division
• Restaurant: Bartender
  • Misty Sanchez, Captain George's Seafood Restaurant
• Restaurant: Bus Person
  • Summer Collins, Rockafeller's Restaurant
• Restaurant: Chef
  • Corey Smith, Captain George's Seafood Restaurant
• Restaurant: Dishwasher
  • Mike Simmonds, Sheraton VB Oceanfront
• Restaurant: Host/Hostess
  • Christina Innis, Rockafeller's Restaurant
• Restaurant: Line Cook
  • Dana Smith, Surf Club Ocean Grille (Wyndham)
• Restaurant: Manager (non-owner)
  • Calvin Martin, VB Resort Hotel & Conference Center
• Restaurant: Prep Person
  • Lanton Ruffin, Surf Club Ocean Grill (Wyndham)
• Restaurant: Wait Staff
  • Tonya Boulier, Boardwok Restaurant
• Sustainability: Green Hospitality
  • Carl Gress, VSA Resorts
• Transportation
  • Corey Salmon, Fun Tours, Inc.
• Volunteer
  • Edwin Salomonsky, Virginia Beach CVB - Visitor Services Division

• SuperHost Award
  • Tonya Boulier, Boardwok Restaurant

CONGRATULATIONS WINNERS!

Virginia Beach Celebrates the Travel Effect - Friday, May 10, 2013 - 11 a.m.

The Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) brings travel supporters together to shine a spotlight on the effect travel has on Virginia Beach

Who:              Travel industry workers representing key businesses in Virginia Beach's hospitality community will join:

• Mayor William D. Sessoms
• City Manager James Spore
• Virginia Beach CVB Director James B. Ricketts
• U.S. Travel Association Representative Malcolm Smith
• Approximately 500 local travel industry representatives

What:             National Travel & Tourism Week Awards Celebration will celebrate the "best of the best" front-line employees. Over thirty-eight individual awards will be presented to front-line employees who go "above and beyond" to make Virginia Beach a place visitors look forward to visiting year after year. In addition, this year marks Virginia Beach's 50^th Anniversary and the tourism industry has been a vital part of the success of the City. The Celebration will kick-off with a festive rally to celebrate the evolution of the Virginia Beach's travel and tourism industry and raise awareness of the impact of travel on Virginia Beach and America.

When:            Friday, May 10, 2013 at 11 a.m.

Where: Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19^th Street, Virginia Beach, VA

Why: Travel Week Celebrations are one of many activities of National Travel and Tourism Week, which takes place from May 4-12.  Travel and tourism is one of America's largest employers, among the top 10 in 48 states and the District of Columbia. In Virginia Beach, 11,760 workers are employed by travel and tourism. Visitor spending contributes to $1.22 billion in our local economy.

The local travel and tourism workforce and its supporters are ready to show the value that travel and tourism brings to Virginia Beach.

Music Festivals Abound at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront During the Warm Months

(Virginia Beach, Va., April 16, 2013) - Kick off your shoes, bring out the beach chairs and get your groove on at the Virginia Beach oceanfront. This spring and summer, the resort city offers various music festivals that are sure to be a blast for the entire family. Dance to the smooth sounds of steel drums, enjoy a blast from the past with music from the 70's, 80's and 90's, or relax and enjoy the warm summer breezes while listening to some of the biggest names in the recording industry. For more information on 2013 events in Virginia Beach, visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com. For media information and images, visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com/pressroom.

PANorama Caribbean Music Fest (May 10-11) - Nothing reminds you of the beach more than the unique sounds of the Caribbean steel drum. During the PANorama Caribbean Music Fest, the casual atmosphere along with the rhythm of steel bands, warm ocean breezes and delicious Caribbean food makes the Virginia Beach oceanfront become an island paradise. Located at the 24^th Street Park, enjoy concerts from steel-drum headliners and over 20 elementary, middle and high schools as well as college and community bands from throughout the country. The schools that perform will be competing for the Grand Champion Award. All performances are free and open to the public. Visit www.beachstreetusa.com for more details.

Beach Music Cruise-In (May 16-19) - This year, Beach Music Weekend has been combined with the Cruisin' Virginia Beach Car Show. Enjoy a blast from the past as top Beach Music bands from up and down the East Coast give a nostalgic salute to the "good old days" of cool cars and hot tunes. With a stage built right on the beach at 30^th Street, visitors can enjoy three days of free concerts. A few performances include Bill Deal's Rhondels, Coolin' Out and Band of Oz. While enjoying musical entertainment, stroll along the boardwalk on May 18 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. and see a local version of "Route 66" with hot rods, street machines, classic cars and more. For a complete list of entertainment or more details, visit www.beachstreetusa.com.

Salute to Summer (May 24-26) - This weekend celebration pays tribute to great music from the past and present, good food and the U.S. military, reminding us of the sacrifices our armed forces have made for decades. Enjoy live bands representing different musical genres on the 17^th Street, 24^th Street and 31^st Street stages along the oceanfront and peruse the "Hero's Walk" displayed along the boardwalk from 17^th to 31^st Streets.  Enjoy entertainment from bands including Rare Mixx, Cheap Thrills, The Deloreans and more. A fireworks show on Sunday night completes the weekend, with bursts of red, white, and blue light reflecting over the ocean in a thrilling culmination to this Memorial Day weekend event. For a detailed entertainment schedule, visit www.beachstreetusa.com.

Hardee's Latin Fest (June 7-8) - The Virginia Beach oceanfront celebrates the sights and sounds of the Latin experience at 24^th Street. Dance under the stars each evening to high-energy Latin music and rhythms of Salsa, Merengue and Jazz from national, regional and local performers. Visitors also can enjoy the Mambo Room Zumba Marathon right on the beach at 24^th Street. The event is free and open to the public. Visit www.beachstreetusa.com for the entertainment line-up.

SkyFest- Eastern Sky Native American Festival and Concert (June 8) - Celebrate the Native American culture at 17^th Street with Native American dances, live musical entertainment and food. The event is free and open to the public. Visit www.beachstreetusa.com for the entertainment line-up.

Sandstock - A Tribute to Rock & Roll (June 21-23) - "Sandstock" started out as a Beach-inspired variation on "Woodstock." Now a tribute to Rock 'n Roll, Sandstock celebrates the music of the 70's, 80's, and 90's that "rocked our world!" National and local tribute artists who run the gamut from Led Zeppelin to Queen and Journey will crank out hit after hit on the 17^th Street, 24^th Street and 31^st Street stages at the Virginia Beach oceanfront.  Even "The King" himself, Elvis Presley, will get in on the act with a special show. Games and activities for kids will round out this "blast from the past." Visit www.beachstreetusa.com.

Stars & Stripes Explosion (July 4) - The Stars & Stripes Explosion showcases great music with breathtaking fireworks creating a patriotic tapestry. Enjoy the stirring sounds of the Virginia Beach Symphony Orchestra and the Virginia Beach Chorale as they perform your favorite patriotic, classical and Broadway standards on a stage built right on the beach at 20^th Street. End the night with the sounds of classic Rock 'n Roll with tribute bands saluting some of the biggest names in music and one of the most dramatic fireworks displays on the East Coast. Visit www.beachstreetusa.com for more details.

Africana Weekend featuring Funkfest (August 23-25) - Virginia Beach will offer a fun-filled, rich cultural African-American experience at the oceanfront with Africana Weekend featuring Funkfest. Funkfest is the musical centerpiece of Africana Weekend which celebrates the music of influential legends like James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, George Clinton and The Ohio Players. Food, merchandise, and dance contests will contribute to a festive, "funky" vibe at the 24^th Street Park. All concerts are free and open to the public. Other activities during the weekend include a business seminar, wellness seminar for women along with kids' activities, cultural exhibits, food and a benefit line dance event. Visit www.beachstreetusa.com for more details.

Verizon Wireless American Music Festival (August 30 - September 1) - This non-stop party features some of the biggest names in the recording industry, as well as a showcase for some of the most popular local and regional bands. Dance, jazz, rock, country and R&B are all represented. Past national acts have included 3 Doors Down, the B52's, Charlie Daniels Band, Kool & the Gang, Eddie Money, Journey and many others over the course of 15 thrilling years. This festival is the premiere music event on the East Coast. Performances take place at the 5^th Street, 17^th Street, 24^th Street and 31^st Street Parks and stages. Most performances are free, some headliners require a ticket. Visit www.beachstreetusa.com for info.

VSOcean: Symphony by the Sea Series - Virginia Beach and the Neptune Festival are offering six magical evenings by the sea with the VSOcean: Symphony by the Sea Series. On July 11 and 25, August 7, 15 and 28 and September 12, relax with a beautiful view of the Atlantic while listening to the Virginia Symphony Orchesta as well as iconic sounds of Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller and other big band favorites. There will also be music from two Broadway Blockbusters from the 1940s era including Oklahoma and South Pacific. Allconcerts are free and open to the public. Series memberships are available for $125 which includes VIP seating, valet parking, access to VIP tent for refreshments and complimentary snacks during the event. Visit www.neptunefestival.com for more details.

Virginia Beach entices visitors to "Live the Life" year-round! Located in the southeastern corner of the state in the Coastal Virginia region, Virginia Beach is four hours southeast of D.C. by car and within a day's drive or less from two-thirds of the U.S. population. For visitor information, call 1-800-VA-BEACH (800/822-3224) or visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com for online trip planning. For media information and digital images, click on www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com/pressroom . Please follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/vabeachcvb and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/VirginiaBeachVA .

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For Immediate Release: April 9, 2013

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - The Navy announced today the cancellation of the annual Naval Air Station Oceana Air Show and appearance by the Flight Demonstration Squadron, the "Blue Angels" as a result of budget shortfalls due to sequestration.

Recognizing budget realities, current Defense policy states that outreach events can only be supported with local assets at no cost to the government.

This is one of many steps the Navy is taking to ensure resources are in place to support forces operating forward now and those training to relieve them.

The Navy believes there is value in demonstrating the professionalism and capabilities of our Naval aviation teams, thus inspiring future generations of Sailors and Marines.  The Navy intends to continue aerial demonstrations in the future as the budget situation permits.

"The Oceana Air Show highlights the tremendous partnership between the people the Hampton Roads area and our Navy team.  It is unfortunate we must cancel the 2013 celebration due to the continuing budget challenges.  Over the years, the city and many community agencies have developed strong partnerships with the Navy and the Air Show affords us an opportunity to highlight military service during the three-day event.  However, until we finish our evaluation of what the current budget will support, with priority on operational and Fleet readiness, we have no choice but to cancel the Air Show," said Capt. Bob Geis, commanding officer of NAS Oceana.

"We appreciate the community's understanding during these uncertain times.  I am also profoundly thankful for what the city and our community partners do for our service men and women each and every day."

Virginia Beach, Va. - The Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau's (CVB) starting line-up comes with a few new faces. The Meetings and Conventions Sales division has hired three new team members and happily promoted an existing player. The new additions make for a dynamic team with extensive hospitality experience in both hotel and destination sales and management.

First up in the starting line-up is Jamie Mitchell, one of two new sales managers. Mitchell will focus on religious associations, fraternal and sports associations, as well as Southeast territories. Mitchell received her Bachelor's degree in Commercial Tourism from Christopher Newport University and has since earned the distinguished Certified Meeting Professional certification. Mitchell started at the Hampton CVB as an intern and quickly advanced into sales, successfully selling Hampton and its convention center for over nine years and, most recently, represented the Chesapeake CVB in sales.

Rachel Weiss has been hired as the second new sales manager. Weiss will focus on military reunions, meetings under 50 rooms on peak night, and researching new business for the team. Weiss received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Tourism from North Carolina State University and comes to the CVB with experience in hotel sales and meeting and event planning.

Next up is Fred Malinis, the new Sales Database Strategist and Research Manager.  Malinis will assist the team with managing projects, training and developing sales strategies for the Customer Relationship Management system, overseeing intern opportunities for research and developing new technology.  Malinis received his first Bachelor's degree in Tourism Management from Old Dominion University.  In 1999, Malinis started at the Virginia Beach CVB as an intern and soon advanced into sales. In 2009, he departed the CVB to pursue and receive a second Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Old Dominion University.

Assuming the leadership role of Director of Sports Marketing is Nancy Helman. Helman has been a key player on the Sports Marketing team for the past 12 years, and her new advancement will continue to drive the sales efforts for the sports marketing unit. In the past Nancy has played an integral role in attracting sporting events by attending the TEAMS Conference and Expo, and the National Associations of Sports Commission Conference. Helman brings a great deal of industry experience, tremendous work ethic and unique passion to this critical position.

These new team players bring diverse strengths and expertise to the Meetings and Conventions Sales Team. Each has worked the gamut of corporate and association sales and have excelled in being the top sales managers for their previous teams. Team CVB is ready to, "Bring it to the Beach," and position Virginia Beach as the number one ideal destination for meetings and conventions.

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Virginia Beach, Va. - The Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) is proud to announce Nancy Helman as the new Director of Sports Marketing. Helman was previously the Sport Marketing Representative and has been a key player on the Sports Marketing team for the past twelve years. Her new advancement will continue to drive the sales efforts for the sports marketing unit.

"Helman brings a great deal of industry experience, tremendous work ethic and unique passion to this critical position," boasts Al Hutchinson, Vice President of Convention Sales and Marketing for the CVB.

In the past, Helman has played an integral role in attracting sporting events by attending the TEAMS Conference and Expo, and the National Associations of Sports Commission Conference. Some of the significant sporting events and conventions that Helman influenced to meet in Virginia Beach include: Rock and Roll Half Marathon, Redskins Beach Blitz, Shamrock Marathon, National High School Coaches Wresting Championship and U.S Track and Field Convention.

Helman will lead her team to, "Bring it to the Beach," and position Virginia Beach as the number one ideal destination for sporting events.

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The Virginia Beach Transit Extension Study (VBTES) is a multi-phased transit porject which is evaluation the Proposed construction and operation of a "fixed guideway" transit system in the City of Virginia Beach, Virginia.

click here to check out the latest Newsletter and read more!

Click here to view our latest newsletter, Winter 2013

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Contents:

• Letter from the Director
• New VBCVB Social Responsibility Program Rolls Out
• Recent National Media Hits
• Bob Hope USO Show Tribute
• VBTTF Charity Fundraising Classic Nets Over $9,000
• Virginia Beach Restaurant Week
• What's New at the Visitor Information Center
• Awards
• Announcements
• VBCC Featured on One+ Magazine's Blog
• Virginia Beach CVB on the Move
• Upcoming Hospitality Industry Events
• Convention Center Calendar of Events

Upgraded WAP permits full trip-planning for different types of travelers, heaps of content and more user-friendly functionality

(Virginia Beach, Va., February 11, 2013) - In 2012, approximately 23% of total traffic to the Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau official website was from a mobile device, up from 11% in 2011. According to TripAdvisor, 44% of U.S. travelers plan to use their smartphone this year as a travel resource while eMarketer notes that 80% of all travelers take their mobile devices with them while on the road. With rapid growth in the use of this technology, Virginia Beach is pleased to announce the launch of an updated mobile version for www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com. This iteration includes a more eye-catching aesthetic, better functionality, more robust content, enhanced options for research and trip planning tools and pages based on type of visitor.

The new look features a light-colored sky background with a beach umbrella. Buttons that are most commonly used are prominently displayed close to the top of the homepage, including "Things to Do," "Where to Eat," "Places to Stay" and "Upcoming Events." A static bar at the bottom allows users to easily return home, utilize a search bar, access a "near me" function and view the current weather.

Several new tabs were added as well. "Our Beaches" explains the differences between Virginia Beach's three beach areas and additionally posts the most current Beach Report from the Shorelines Blog. The "Explore" tab provides access to the Shorelines Blog, Virginia Beach weather, articles and travel directions complete with links and contact information, mileage from major cities and a "map it" option for obtaining directions.  It also allows users to navigate the site based on the type of visitor they are -- leisure vacationers, international travelers, meeting planners and attendees, sports groups and group tour planners.

Unlike a traditional mobile app, the mobile site does not have to be downloaded to the mobile device, making it easily accessible and capable of working across all mobile devices. The new mobile site is viewable on any Smartphone device. On iPads and other brands of tablets and notebooks, users will see the full website instead of the mobile version.

Virginia Beach entices visitors to "Live the Life" year-round! Located in the southeastern corner of the state in the Coastal Virginia region, Virginia Beach is four hours southeast of D.C. by car and within a day's drive or less from two-thirds of the U.S. population. For visitor information, call 1-800-VA-BEACH (800/822-3224) or visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com for online trip planning. For media information and digital images, click on www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com/pressroom . Please follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/vabeachcvb and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/VirginiaBeachVA .

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Lisa MacArthur, sales manager with the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, was elected secretary of the Green Meeting Industry Council's Greater Washington Area Chapter. Last month, the council announced the official launch of the chapter, headquartered in Washington, D.C., and serving members in Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia.

The chapter's mission is to improve the sustainability of events held within the Greater Washington Area and to enable local members, through education and collaboration, to plan and implement sustainable meetings across the world.

"Our goal is to be a resource in the niche area of green meetings to other organizations serving the event planning community. Reducing waste, increasing efficiency, supporting the local community and strengthening your brand are things all event planners and suppliers should be knowledgeable about and can benefit from," said Kimberly Lewis, past chapter president and senior vice president of community advancement, conference & events at the U.S. Green Building Council.

For more information, visit www.gmicglobal.org/washingtondc.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-6646

January 13-20, 2013

Virginia Beach, Va. - From Sunday, January 13 to Sunday, January 20, experience culinary artistry at its finest during this year's Virginia Beach Restaurant Week. Area chefs from over 70 of Virginia Beach's finest restaurants will be creating unique and delectable dishes for this exciting event. Enjoy two-course prix fixe lunches for $10 and three-course prix fixe dinners for $20 and $30 throughout the week.

Taste the creativity and indulge in homemade crab bisque, slow cooked prime rib, pepper seared tuna and unrivaled Lynnhaven oysters, not to mention desserts such as coconut flan and warm butter tortes. Appetizers and main dishes range from chicken and steak, to pasta, salmon, and many local deep-sea favorites.

Visit www.VBRestaurantWeek.com or call (757) 422-4420 for participating restaurants, menus and more information.

The 2013 Virginia Beach Restaurant Week is presented by the Virginia Beach Restaurant Association, Sysco, US Foods, Reinhart Foodservice, Hoffman Beverage, Republic National, Chesbay Distributors, The Katsias Company, Performance Foodservice Group, Spectrum Printing and Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-6646
ttwine@visitvirginiabeach.com

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brought to you by the Virginia Beach CVB

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VISIT FLORIDA, CVBs in Three States Also Earn Shining Example Awards

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (Nov. 2, 2012) - Ruby Falls, one of America's iconic tourist attractions, has received the Southeast Tourism Society Shining Example Award as the Escape to the Southeast Travel Attraction of the Year.

That was one of 15 awards STS presented at its Fall Forum in Virginia Beach, Va., on Nov. 1.

VISIT FLORIDA received a Shining Example Award as the State Tourism Office of the Year, and Shining Example Awards went to convention and visitors bureaus in Kentucky, Mississippi and Virginia based on the size of their budgets:

• TOUR Southern & Eastern Kentucky, which serves a 43-county region, won for CVBs with budgets less than $2 million.
• The Tupelo, Miss., CVB won in the category for organizations with budgets between $2 million and $5 million.
• The Virginia Beach, Va., CVB won in the category for organizations with budgets greater than $5 million.

Ruby Falls in Chattanooga, Tenn., is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is America's deepest commercial cave at 1,120 feet beneath the surface and is the most-visited underground waterfall. Annual visitation exceeds 400,000.

The attraction has become a model in environmental sustainability in the areas of renewable energy production, reduction of greenhouse gases, recycling, waste reduction and land use planning.

"Shining Example Awards highlight some of the best work in travel and tourism, and winners truly set examples that others in the industry can follow," said STS President and CEO Bill Hardman. "Showcasing great work is important because tourism is the largest, second-largest or third-largest industry in every Southeastern state."

Shining Example Awards, a fixture since 1985, are presented in 12 categories, 15 awards. Here is the full list.

Escape to the Southeast Travel Attraction of the Year
Ruby Falls - Chattanooga, Tenn.

CVB of the Year (Category 1 - Budget less than $2 million)
TOUR Southern & Eastern Kentucky - Somerset, Ky.

CVB of the Year (Category 2 - Budget between $2 -$5 million)
Tupelo CVB - Tupelo, Miss.

CVB of the Year (Category 3 - Budget greater than $5 million)
Virginia Beach CVB - Virginia Beach, Va.

Top 20 Event/Festival of the Year (Category 1)
Bloomin' BBQ & Bluegrass - Sevierville, Tenn.

Top 20 Event/Festival of the Year (Category 2)
BayFest Music Festival - Mobile, Ala.

Internet Excellence
Lake Lanier CVB - Gainesville, Ga.

Visual Excellence
Greenbrier County CVB - Lewisburg, W.Va.

Tourism for Tomorrow
Mississippi Blues Trail - Jackson, Miss.

State Tourism Office of the Year
VISIT FLORIDA

Governmental Tourism Leadership Award
Alabama Sen. Arthur Orr - Huntsville, Ala.

Rising Star Award
Rashelle Beasley, manager of the Albany, Ga., Welcome Center

Beacon Award
Marcus G. Smith - Concord, N.C.

Chairman of the Board Award
Angie Briggs - Miles Partnership

Spirit of STS Award
Tom Adkinson - BOHAN Advertising

Founded in 1983, the Southeast Tourism Society is dedicated to the promotion and development of tourism to its 12 member states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Membership includes state travel offices, attractions, hotels, motels, resorts, convention and visitors bureaus, transportation companies, newspapers, magazines and other travel-related organizations.

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Contact:
Suzanne Moon
Suzanne@southeasttourism.org
Southeast Tourism Society
770-542-1523

Smart Meetings magazine, the industry's premier resource for meeting professionals, announced the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) among the winners of its ninth annual Platinum Choice awards. This prestigious award recognizes excellence in service and amenities among meeting facilities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Out of thousands of qualified properties and organizations, only a few met the magazine's criteria to be honored. The Virginia Beach CVB earned this recognition by setting exemplary standards in a range of categories including ambience, amenities, breadth of resources, facility quality, guest services, meeting space, meeting packages, recreational activities, restaurant and dining facilities, staff attitude and technical support.

Winners were chosen by Smart Meetings readers, who vote for their favorites over a two-month period, with additional input from editors and industry experts.

"This year's winners exceeded expectations and exemplified positive, professional standards that reflect a true commitment to the meetings industry," said Marin Bright, founder and publisher of Smart Meetings magazine. "We want to reward industry leaders, innovators and top service providers that make a real difference for planners and attendees."

The Virginia Beach CVB and other honorees will be celebrated in the December issue of Smart Meetings magazine and on the magazine's website, www.smartmeetings.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-6646

Posted: October 26, 2012

By Bill Cresenzo

bill.cresenzo@insidebiz.com

The Norfolk City Council last week moved forward on two major transportation projects.

First, it voted to build a new downtown bus transfer facility.

Then, calling it a matter of national defense and just in time for next week's light rail vote in Virginia Beach, the council voted to spend $1.8 million on a light rail extension study and threw its support behind extending light rail to Virginia Beach.

The council voted to support City Manager Marcus Jones' recommendation to build a new $4 million bus transfer facility on St. Paul's Boulevard.

Right now, the transfer station is Cedar Grove on Monticello Avenue. Officials say that this is woefully inadequate, with no restrooms and a lack of shelter.

The new transfer station will be located at the site of the former Downtown Plaza, a 2-acre plot on St. Paul's Boulevard. Hampton Roads Transit expects up to 6,500 people to use the transfer system each week.

Construction will being in October of next year, said Lori Crouch, a spokeswoman for the city of Norfolk. In the meantime, the city will close the current transfer station and set up a temporary one on Wood Street.

The council also voted to support a $1.8 million study that will investigate whether to extend light rail to Naval Station Norfolk.

"The severe congestion and delays at and along the approaches to Naval Station Norfolk, the largest employment center in the Hampton Roads region, impact essential national defense readiness and operations, as well as all users of the surrounding highway network," the council's resolution says.

In the same resolution, the council expressed support to extending light rail to Virginia Beach.

"Daily ridership totals on the Tide during its first year of operations have far exceeded initial projections and continue to increase, demonstrating a growing public enthusiasm and support for light rail transit as part of a balanced approach to addressing transportation needs in Norfolk and the larger Hampton Roads region," the resolution says.

Norfolk Councilman Paul Riddick was the lone dissenter on the resolution, because, he said, Virginia Beach didn't support Norfolk when it moved forward with light rail.

Next week, Virginia Beach voters will answer this question: "Should the City Council adopt an ordinance approving the use of all reasonable efforts to support the financing and development of The Tide light rail into Virginia Beach?

If the referendum passes, studies into light rail will continue and the city council would vote on whether to build light rail.

If it fails, Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms said that the council wouldn't revisit the issue for at least five to 10 years.

A similar referendum failed in 1999, but observers say that attitudes toward light rail - particularly in light of the traffic problems that continue to hamper Hampton Roads - have changed and they are optimistic the referendum will pass. Numerous polls have indicated that it will. nib

Southeast Tourism Society To Bring 175 Professionals to Virginia Beach
12-state association to examine tourism trends across region

(Virginia Beach, VA) - Starting tomorrow, the Atlanta-headquartered Southeast Tourism Society (STS) will bring approximately 175 tourism professionals to Virginia Beach, Va., to examine the state of the industry during the STS Fall Forum, Oct. 31-Nov. 2.

A meeting highlight will be introduction of the first class of "Forty for the Future: Travel's Leading Talent." The new program recognizes rising stars in the travel industry, all of whom are younger than 40.

Two of the honorees are Virginians, Katherine O'Donnell of the Richmond Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau and Randall Rose of the Virginia Tourism Authority.

STS Fall Forum speakers include Horst Schulze, founding president of Ritz-Carlton and now president and CEO of Capella Hotel Group, who will speak about service excellence in the hospitality industry; Dr. Suzanne Cook, one of the nation's top travel industry research experts; and Ralf Garrison, a senior analyst for the Vacation Travel Research Program.

Also on the program are Garrett Graff, editor of Washingtonian Magazine, and Kim Cross, travel editor at Southern Living, who will discuss the evolving nature of travel industry coverage.

"Tourism is a bright spot in the nation's economy, and it's certainly important to Virginia Beach and the rest of Virginia. We want to keep everyone in the industry focused," said Bill Hardman, STS President and CEO.

The meeting is headquartered at the Founders Inn.

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About STS

Founded in 1983, the Southeast Tourism Society (SoutheastTourism.org) is dedicated to promoting and developing tourism in its member states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Its headquarters are in Atlanta. The membership includes state travel offices, attractions, hotels, motels, resorts, convention and visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce, travel media and other travel-related organizations.

Note to editors: Coverage is welcomed at all programs. The schedule is at SoutheastTourism.org under the "meetings" button. Also, STS President and CEO Bill Hardman will be available throughout the Fall Forum as a resource about tourism throughout the Southeast.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Tiffany Twine
Ttwine@visitvirginiabeach.com

Bob Cline
Bob@USTours.Biz

USO to Receive $20,000 Check

(Virginia Beach, VA) From October 15 to 18, Virginia Beach residents have the opportunity to be entertained and contribute towards the existing efforts of the Travel Alliance Partners (TAP), who are donating more than $20,000 to the USO of Hampton Roads, VA; "The Home of Seal Team 6." 

The donation comes in part from the sales of every participant in TAP's "Bob Hope USO Show Tribute," a very unique group tour product created by U.S. Tours and sold by 32 TAP Partners across American and Canada. According to Bob Cline from U.S. Tours, managing director of this program, the USO's donation is at $20,180 and growing. The "Tribute" consists of musical entertainment of every kind. Here is a schedule of events:

Monday, October 15
"New Jersey Nights" - Virginia Beach Convention Center
The story of the Jersey Boys: music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Tuesday, October 16
"The Sinatra Legacy" - Cavalier Hotel
A special tribute to the music of Frank Sinatra by Tommy Dorsey Band 

Wednesday, October 17
"Swingtime in the Skies" Air Show - Military Aviation Museum
Features flyovers of both Tri-Planes and Bi-Planes synchronized to live Swing Music

"King Neptune's USO Show"- Sandler Center for the Performing Arts
A tribute to the USO Shows of Bob Hope: Andrew Sisters & Glenn Miller AAF Band

Tickets are still on sale and every purchase increases the USO contribution by $20. There are currently 1,218 attendees for this first year event.  According to a spokesman from TAP, this is the largest privately organized group tour in America. 

To attend the "The Sinatra Legacy" or a double feature to include the "King Neptune's USO Show" and "Swingtime in the Skies," contact U.S. Tours at (304) 485-8687.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tiffany Twine: ttwine@vbgov.com

Pete Ciriello: pciriello@ntmllc.com

Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau Honored by Successful Meetings

2012 BEST Hotels, Conference Centers, CVB's and National Tourist Offices                                                       as selected by meeting professional nationwide

The Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau was named one of the best Convention and Visitors Bureaus in the world and received the prestigious Pinnacle Award from Successful Meetings. The 2012 Pinnacle Awards are the mark of excellence for meeting destinations, hotels and conference centers. The awarded organizations have done an outstanding job servicing their meetings, incentive travel programs, trade shows and conventions throughout the previous year. 

 For over 27 years, the Pinnacle Award has earned a reputation as the most credible and prestigious symbol of excellence among meeting professionals and travel suppliers alike.

 Readers of Successful Meetings - professionals who are decision makers for planning meetings, events, conferences, and incentive programs - voted for the winners of the Pinnacle Awards via online ballots and gave feedback based on their professional experiences worldwide for the top hotels, conference centers, and CVBs. All winners were listed in Successful Meetings' annual Pinnacle Registry, published in August - and online at www.successfulmeetings.com/pinnacle.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-6646

Virginia Beach Convention Center Honored in Best High-Tech Facilities Category

PCMA's Award-Winning Publication Recognizes Meetings Industry Leaders with 'Best of' Honors

 Convene®, the magazine of the Professional Convention Management Association, published its first ever August issue. The award-winning publication commemorated the occasion with another first: An awards program that honored the best meetings industry venues, destinations, and service providers in 10 categories, as determined by Convene's readers and editors.

 The Virginia Beach Convention Center was honored in the Best High - Tech Facilities category. The "Best in Show," was a cover package that invited Convene readers to nominate their favorite CSR initiatives, technology tools, Food & Beverage programs, social-media initiatives, off-site venues, and six other categories. Convene editors then reviewed the nominations and picked the top five honorees for each category.

 "The technological amenities within the Virginia Beach Convention Center add value and offer opportunities for our destination and our clients," said James B. Ricketts, Director of the Virginia Beach CVB.

 The Center was recognized for its latest technological amenities. These include a 360-foot video wall, perfect for presentations for large groups; state-of-the art audiovisual capabilities; and convenient, reliable wired and wireless high-speed Internet throughout the Center.

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Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau Wins 11^th Gold Service Award for 2012

Presented by Meetings & Conventions Magazine

A dedication to quality service is the key to maintaining customers and also the key to winning the Meetings & Conventions' Gold Service Award. This prestigious award honors Convention and Visitors Bureaus that have excelled in professionalism and dedication in their service to meeting professionals.

The Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) was selected for the 2012 Gold Service distinction by industry meeting professionals, along with other domestic and international CVBs. This is the eleventh time that the Virginia Beach CVB has been selected as a recipient since 1999, including each of the last nine years. 

Recipients were judged on their ability to provide superior assistance to meeting planners in hotel and site inspections, ground transportation planning, guidance on local attractions, liaison with local vendors and services, in addition to, the overall professionalism of staff.

"It's an honor to once again be recognized by the industry and our peers. This award is truly a tribute to the commitment we have to providing our clients with quality customer service," said James B. Ricketts, Director of the Virginia Beach CVB.

The Virginia Beach CVB will be featured in the Meetings & Conventions' magazine Gold Awards issue published this November.

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VIRGINIA BEACH, VA - This month the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center will take its award winning E-cycling event to the Virginia Beach Convention Center the last weekend in September.  Sponsored by Goodwill and TFC recycling, the bi-annual e-cycle event marks the 7^th hosted by the Virginia Aquarium and its first at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. 

On Saturday, September 29^th as part of the Hampton Roads Sustainable Living Expo, residents can drop off unwanted technology-oriented items and up to 50 pounds of shredding material from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Virginia Beach Convention Center's west parking lot.  Eligible items include:  desktops, laptops, printers, cell phones and all computer peripherals, even power cords.  Donations will be promptly loaded onto Goodwill trucks for delivery to their local facilities for safe and secure handling.  Staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide receipts for tax purposes and information about how their contributions help to protect our local environment. For a complete listing of what to donate individuals can visit www.goodwillvirginia.org.

To keep electronic waste or "e-waste" out of Hampton Roads landfills, the Virginia Aquarium has hosted bi-annual E-cycling events since 2009.  Their event earlier this year kept 62,000 pounds [or 5 tractor trailer loads] of unwanted computers and related technology out of area landfills.  The Virginia Aquarium E-cycling program received the 2011 Virginia Green Travel Star Most Innovative Green Project Award.  The program is consistent with the Virginia Aquarium's mission which is to inspire conservation of the marine environment through education, research and sustainable practices.

Goodwill's eRecycling  program provides Hampton Roads residents with a safe and secure way to dispose of unused or outdated technology.  Goodwill participates in technology recycling with Dell Computers.  Known as the Reconnect Program, Goodwill efforts divert e-waste from area landfills and keep information stored on those electronics from being wrongfully used or mishandled. In 2011 Goodwill kept 1.32 million pounds of e-waste out of Virginia landfills.  When an individual donates their electronics to Goodwill, they can be assured of 3 things: 1) no technology or equipment is going to a landfill, 2) information that might be stored on equipment will be securely wiped clean according to Department of Defense 5220.22 standards, and 3) hard drives and equipment that do not meet resale standards will be destroyed and recycled domestically.

Goodwill accepts electronics year round at any of its donation drop off locations throughout Hampton Roads.  Items donated to Goodwill, whether at a store location or at events like this one, are routed to the main facility on Diamond Springs Road in Virginia Beach for processing.  Equipment, including computer hard drives that store data, is held in secure areas until processing.  The best part - revenue generated from the resale of computers and electronics in Goodwill's stores funds job training and career development programs for individuals with disabilities and other obstacles to employment.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT (S):
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-6646
ttwine@visitvirginiabeach.com

Aimee Taylor
(757) 422-4420
aimee@vbra.com

Virginia Beach Wine and Craft Beer Week, Oct. 22-28
Beer Lovers & Wine Aficionados Unite

For one week next month - Monday, Oct. 22, to Sunday, Oct. 28 - more than 50 of Virginia Beach's finest restaurants will serve 'Red, White, or Brew' during the first Virginia Beach Wine and Craft Beer Week. Specials will be offered throughout the city, including wines by the glass, flight and bottle paired with menu items specially created for the week. Virginia wines will be available for purchase in many participating restaurants. 

As culinary tourism evolves, Virginia Beach's unique coastal restaurant scene brings awareness, education and culinary events to the forefront. During this special week, local restaurants will raise awareness of the Virginia wine and craft beer industries. Virginia is home to more than 200 wineries and 35 breweries. Virginia Beach is proud to celebrate the heritage and excellence of these homegrown industries.

From the most discerning wine experts to beginning tasters, all who enjoy wine and beer will be welcome. You don't have to be a connoisseur to enjoy this event. Heck, you don't even have to know how to pronounce "connoisseur!" Reservations are strongly recommended, as wine and beer events consistently draw crowds of enthusiasts. Enjoy responsibly!

Visit www.dineinvb.com or call (757) 422-4420 for a list of participating restaurants, menus and more information.

The 2012 Virginia Beach Wine and Craft Beer Week is presented by the Virginia Beach Restaurant Association, a community partner of the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau.

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3,600 Wind and Ocean Enthusiasts Expected for Two Conferences
At Virginia Beach Convention Center in October

  The Virginia Beach Convention Center will host two conferences in October that offer local residents the opportunity to enjoy an oceanfront concert and learn more about environmental sustainability. The conferences are projected to bring nearly 3,600 attendees to the resort area and generate more than 3,400 hotel room nights, strengthening the Virginia Beach economy.

From Oct. 9 to 11, the American Wind Energy Association's Offshore Windpower 2012 Conference and Exhibition will bring together exhibitors and attendees from around the world interested in the new and highly promising offshore wind industry.

From Oct. 14 to 19, OCEANS '12 MTS/IEEE Hampton Roads will bring together technology, people and ideas to help expand our understanding of the earth's largest natural resource.

Both conferences invite the community and region to attend various educational and fun events. The following events are free and open to the public. 

OCEANS '12 Workshops - Oct. 15
12:30 to 5 p.m. at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19^th St.

Topics will include Autonomous Technologies in Ocean Observing, Marine Spatial Planning, and Sea Level Rise and Storm Surge Flooding in the Mid-Atlantic
www.oceans12mtsieeehamptonroads.org

OCEANS '12 Plenary Session - Oct. 16
8 to 11 a.m. at the Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19^th St.

 For more information about the Virginia Beach Convention Center and upcoming events, visit http://www.vbconventioncenter.com/ or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VBCC1) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/VBCC).

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Thursday, September 06, 2012 · 03:00 pm

Commotion in the Ocean Promises to be Best Charity Gala Again!

Saturday, October 20, 8 p.m. - midnight, Virginia Aquarium Bay & Ocean Pavilion

(Virginia Beach, VA) - The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's Commotion in the Ocean gala will be held October 20. This "fun'd" raising event, which transforms the Aquarium into a magical evening, has gained popularity and attendance since it began in 2003. Last spring, the event was officially recognized as Best Charity Gala by the Virginia Living Magazine.

The annual fall event is organized by the Aquarium Connection, a group of Hampton Roads' young professionals who raise money for the Virginia Aquarium Foundation. Co-chairpersons of this year's Commotion in the Ocean event are Michael Furchtenicht, Erin Heffelfinger, Lucy Newman and Kim Shepherd.

This year, Commotion in the Ocean will feature the band Carbon Jam. Guests can dance in a nightclub atmosphere, compete in "throwback" games like arcade and pinball, shop the silent auction mall of travel packages and exquisite merchandise, partake of abundant food and beverages, and enjoy the Aquarium exhibits in a festive atmosphere.

Commotion in the Ocean proceeds will help the Virginia Aquarium invest in technology upgrades for educational programming which reaches more than 260,000 children and adults each year. This number includes more than 6,100 individuals from high needs schools and organizations assisting underserved or special needs clients. The Aquarium also provides educational outreach programs to a number of Title 1 schools throughout Hampton Roads and beyond. With upgraded technology enhancements such as webcams, iPads, Smart Boards and more, children and adults will enjoy the most up to date information with captivating tools. The benefits of these upgrades would also extend to the Aquarium's Research & Conservation division enabling scientists and Stranding Response Team experts to share research and information worldwide.

Tickets cost $75 per person, and include admission, food, beer and wine. Valet parking is provided. Advanced tickets are highly recommended. To purchase tickets visit http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/.

# # #

The Virginia Aquarium Foundation is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring conservation of the marine environment through education, research and sustainable practices. The Foundation was formed in 1981, three years before construction on the Aquarium even began. Over the years, the Foundation's role in support of the Aquarium has not only included garnering financial support to pay for the Aquarium's exhibits, but it has expanded to include funding of education programs, and research and conservation efforts through the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program.

Office of Governor Bob McDonnell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 5, 2012

Office of the Governor
Contact: Jeff Caldwell
Phone: (804) 225-4260
Email: Jeff.Caldwell@Governor.Virginia.Gov

Virginia Tourism Corporation
Contact: Tamra Talmadge-Anderson
Phone: (804) 545-5573
Email: ttanderson@virginia.org

Governor McDonnell Announces Tourism Revenues Exceeded $20 Billion in 2011

~New statewide data shows 8 percent increase over 2010 with every locality in Virginia posting an increase in revenue~

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that visitors to Virginia generated $20.4 billion in revenue from tourism in 2011, an 8 percent increase over 2010. In 2011, tourism in Virginia supported 207,000 jobs, an increase of nearly 2 percent in employment, and provided more than $1.32 billion in state and local taxes.  The Virginia Tourism Corporation receives its annual economic impact data from the U.S. Travel Association.  The information is based on domestic visitor spending (travelers from within the United States) from per-person trips taken 50 miles or more away from home. 

"These new figures highlight the importance of continuing to invest in tourism as an instant revenue generator for Virginia," said Governor McDonnell.  "Virginia's tourism industry is bringing in more than $20 billion in revenue and providing more than 207,000 jobs for Virginians across the state.  I've made tourism a key part of my administration's economic development initiatives and it's encouraging to see the positive return on investment."

The Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) is the state agency responsible for marketing Virginia to visitors and promoting the Virginia is for Lovers brand. Virginia is for Lovers is the longest-running state tourism slogan in the country. Virginia is for Lovers stands for love - pure and simple, and promotes the state as the ideal destination for loved ones to completely connect on a great vacation. Virginia is for Lovers was named one of the top 10 tourism marketing campaigns of all time by Forbes and was inducted into the National Advertising Walk of Fame in 2009. Virginia was also recently named one of the top 10 wine travel destinations in the world for 2012 by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Last week, Virginia.org was honored with the Mercury Award for Best Travel Web Site among states by the National Council of State Tourism Directors.

"The support that we've received from the governor's administration and the General Assembly has been essential to keeping tourism strong - especially during challenging economic times," said Rita McClenny, interim president and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation.  "This new economic impact data shows that the investment is paying off and that Virginia's tourism industry is headed in the right direction."

The Virginia tourism Web site, http://www.virginia.org/, is one of the most visited in the nation and features destinations, events, travel packages and special offers from throughout the state. The VTC distributes more than 700,000 Virginia Travel Guides each year and sees more than 2 million visitors at the Virginia Welcome Centers statewide.

Love is at the heart of every Virginia vacation. Go to http://www.virginia.org/ and start planning a trip or call 1-800-VISITVA to request a free, Virginia is for Lovers Travel Guide. Connect with Virginia on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/VirginiaisforLovers or on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/VisitVirginia. Watch the Virginia is for Lovers TV commercial at www.youtube.com/VisitVirginia.

Note to media: detailed economic impact data by locality is available on www.Vatc.org under Research.

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-6646

 Ray Toll
(757) 963-6357

Seeking Attendees Interested in Changing the World - OCEANS '12 Conference

(Virginia Beach, VA) There's still time to participate in a conference geared towards changing the world and the environment in which we live. On October 14-19, OCEANS '12 MTS/IEEE Hampton Roads invites local students, technologists and environment preservation enthusiasts to attend their OCEANS '12 Exhibition at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

The Exhibition will allow attendees to network with technologists, oceanographers, researchers and prospective employers. OCEANS '12 Hampton Roads brings together technology, people and ideas that will help to expand our understanding of the earth's largest natural resource.

In addition to the Exhibition, students and the region's general public are invited register and attend the OCEANS '12 Plenary Session. The session will include a welcome from the 3 honorary chairs: Virginia Beach Mayor Sessoms, Norfolk Mayor Fraim and Old Dominion University President Broderick; a presentation by Dr. Kathy Sullivan, NOAA, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Environmental Observation and Prediction; and discussions led by other prominent dignitaries and experts.  The following events are free and open to the public.

Community Event Information:

OCEANS '12 Plenary Session - Oct 16

Tues. 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Virginia Beach Convention Center

OCEANS '12 Exhibition - Oct 16 - 18

Virginia Beach Convention Center

(Register for Exhibits Only Pass)

Click here to Register today!

For more information on the Conference or Exhibition Opportunities, visit http://www.oceans12mtsieeehamptonroads.org/.

Media is invited to attend. Interviews are available.

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Posted: August 17, 2012

By Susan Smigielski Acker Correspondent

When the economy goes south, so does corporate spending on luxuries such as conventions and travel meetings.

Area convention centers and venues have felt the pinch.

However, according to local convention and meeting center managers, the past is not as scary as the future. The fear of upcoming military and federal budget cuts, the bread and butter of the Hampton Roads convention and meeting industry, means fewer military and federal employee meetings.

And for those meetings that do happen, fewer people will come.

Convention Plus Surf and Sand

Al Hutchinson, vice president of convention sales and marketing for the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, said when the downturn in the economy hit in 2008 the Virginia Beach Convention Center did not feel it right away because it books events far in advance.

"Our job is to book business in a fiscal year that will meet in Virginia Beach in future years, such as two to three years later," he said.

That way of working, Hutchinson said, "allowed us to get ahead of the curve" of the 2008 economic decline.

For instance, in fiscal year 2008-2009 the total number of convention center bookings was 46. There was a dip down to 36 bookings in fiscal year 2009-2010 with a slight increase to 39 in fiscal year 2010-2011. Fiscal year 2011-2012 shows 31 bookings for the center.

Hutchinson said what keeps the center afloat are the amateur sports market and the military, with the added bonus of the nearby beach.

"We have had the national high school wrestling tournament here, U.S. fencing competitions and more," he said.

"The beauty is that although the economy is bad, parents are still willing to pay for their kids to compete in an event," Hutchinson said.

"Those events partly take place during the off-season. People can still go to the beach and walk the boardwalk. The water may be too cold to swim, but they can still see the ocean."

The other dependable market is the military.

"This area is a hotbed for federal government and military meetings," Hutchinson said. "They are still happening. Many that we have are booked far in advance."

However, recent cuts to the federal budget are making it hard for Hutchinson and his team of seven people.

"We have taken a hit," he said.

For the upcoming fiscal year, Hutchinson said "things are a little soft."

Mainly, Hutchinson said, the decline is in the total number of nights that have been scheduled for hotel rooms.

"The government budget cuts mandate has had an impact," he said. "And unlike associations, many book about 12 months in advance instead of two to three years."

Hutchinson said the budget cuts have not deterred him and his team. Rather, they seek out other avenues such as associations that might want to bring families to the Oceanfront.

Another factor Hutchinson and his team are facing is Virginia Beach City Council's decision earlier this year not to build a hotel adjacent to the convention center.

Many meeting planners want a hotel next to the convention center where their sessions occur. Although the DoubleTree Hotel is just a large parking lot away, Hutchinson said for meeting planners and attendees "that doesn't fit the bill."

Social media plays a role helping marketing efforts.

"Those who attend will tweet or write on Facebook something about being here," said Tiffany Twine, media and communication coordinator for the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Many times they are including a picture of the facility. So we are getting the promotion once we have already booked the business."

While Hutchinson and his team are refocusing their efforts to get business, he said the economy will be a factor.

"We will have to wait," he said, "and keep our fingers crossed."

Norfolk's Salute

Norfolk is home to the Norfolk Naval Station and that has helped the convention business stay afloat.

"Norfolk was fortunate that it did not see the double-digit decreases that many destinations encountered beginning in 2008," said Donna Allen, vice president of sales and marketing at VisitNorfolk. "Although our overall occupancy was on pace, 2010 did have a reduction in group room nights. However, we did not see the 16 to 18 percent decrease that some of my peers in other markets did."

In 2010 there was an increase in conventions coming to Norfolk, which had until recently continued.

Conventions are held at the downtown Marriott and Sheraton hotels as well as Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center and the Ted Constant Convocation Center at Old Dominion University. Large conventions are at Scope.

Like Virginia Beach, Allen predicts Norfolk will see a decrease in bookings from the Department of Defense, federal government and state government, which historically have booked in Norfolk within a 12 to 18 month window.

Allen said there is potential for a 30 percent or more reduction in federal government travel that will affect the number of meetings and, perhaps, a lowered per diem rate for 2013.

"We are anticipating fewer government meetings and a much more competitive marketplace for those remaining meetings and conventions," she said.

She too has seen social media playing a larger role, primarily with meeting planners using it in the site selection process. Meeting planners are promoting the meetings to potential attendees. Once the attendees are here, social media is being used to enhance the experience such as in restaurant selection, she said.

While organizations may still be having meetings and conventions, Allen said they are sending fewer people.

"If in the past, they sent two or three people, they are now sending one person," she said.

The military presence stills helps Norfolk with reunions.

"Not only are we getting World War II veterans but we are now seeing Vietnam veterans and veterans from the first Gulf War," Allen said.

Group tours of the area will be more of a focus in the future to offset the meeting downturn, she said.

Overall for Allen, hard work lies ahead but it's something she and her team will tackle.

"We will work hard with our partners to promote the area," Allen said. "That includes its walkability of downtown, the history, Ocean View beach and the great restaurants."

Hampton brings in believers

Sallie Grant-DiVenuti, executive director of the Hampton Convention and Visitors Bureau, said that since 2008, convention business hasn't increased. Because she was at an out-of-town meeting last week, she was unable to access exact numbers.

When meetings are booked, they are not arranged two to three years in advance as in the past, rather closer to the date.

"It is like they are putting their toe in the water," Grant-DiVenuti said of bookings. "This has been especially true since 2010."

When groups do come, there are fewer attendees.

"Before there would be two to three people from each group, now they are sending just one," she said.

Grant-DiVenuti is well aware of federal government cuts. So much so that she said she keeps "a daily eye on Washington."

The threat of the federal meeting budget being cut is why she said the religious market will be the saving grace for the Hampton Roads Convention Center.

"Religious leaders are just like teachers, they need to continue their education and keep up with the latest trends," she said.

The Hampton Roads Convention Center in Hampton has hosted the Jehovah's Witnesses as well as Hampton University's ministers' conference.

Nearly 1,200 rooms will house pastors and lay people from the African Methodist Episcopal Church, which is planning a conference at the center.

To help entice more organizations, the Hampton Roads Convention Center is offering extras with multi-year contracts.

"We are giving added services such as free shuttle service or other discounts depending on the groups' needs in exchange for a multi-year contract," she said.

That helps secure repeat business that is easier to obtain than new business, Grant-DiVenuti said.

Marketing efforts through social media include blogs on different sites such as boating websites to promote the area.

Like others, Grant-DiVenuti and her staff are closely evaluating what conferences and trade shows they attend.

"We are looking to see how much business we got from each trade show," Grant-DiVenuti said. "Those that yielded a lot of leads and business we go back to. Those that don't we will give up."

Small but proud in Chesapeake

The Chesapeake Conference Center's overall operating revenue was a little more than $2.5 million in 2008. It has fallen slightly each fiscal year since. In fiscal year 2012, the operating revenue was just over $1.9 million.

But Timothy Fields, the center's general manager, said the center's small size gives it a niche market.

"We focus our efforts on the local community and surrounding area," Fields said. "We are not huge like some of the others. We have just 32,000 square feet total. A big function is about 400 to 500 people, although we can hold up to 1,200 people.

"That does not allow for break-away rooms," he said. "But that makes us more affordable."

The local market means hosting events for area businesses, weddings and parties that keep the center in use almost every day.

"During the week, we have meetings from businesses," Fields said. "We also have service organizations, such as Rotary, who meet here monthly.

"On the weekends, we will have a wedding, retirement party or bar mitzvah," Fields said. "There have been times when we have had three weddings in one day."

Advertising is done primarily on local radio stations that have different formats.

"And we promote the conference center on the web, Facebook and Twitter hot and heavy," he said.

Fields, who has been on the job for one year, uses the center's website to respond quickly to inquiries.

"If someone emails us using our website it comes directly to my email," he said. "I or one of the staff members responds to it within the hour.

"Our goal is for all of Hampton Roads to know we exist," he said.

One reason Fields feels strongly about a local focus is because the center has no hotel directly adjacent to it.

"We do have a Marriott right next door that people can walk to the center from," he said. "And some groups will have their people stay in other hotels nearby and shuttle them in. But if a group is looking to have everything under one roof, we cannot provide that."

To help offset the business convention and meeting downturn, Fields has reached out to ethnic markets to promote the center, including area Jewish and Asian Indian organizations, especially for weddings.

Because it is a city-owned facility, the center runs on a fiscal year beginning in July. Since the economic downturn, revenue has increased slowly.

Right now bookings for future years are not where Fields would like to see them.

"But overall," he said, "we are doing well." nib

Courtesy photo

The Lionel Collectors Club of American held it's annual convention for model train enthusiasts in July at the downtown Norfolk Waterside Marriott Hotel. More than 1,000 people attended.

Regular Hours Resume 

Virginia Aquarium extended summer hours (9 a.m. - 6 p.m.) end Labor Day, September 3. Normal operating hours (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) resume, September 4. The Aquarium is open daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

International Vulter Awareness Day, September 1, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Marsh Pavilion 

Meet our resident turkey vultures and participate in games, crafts and activities to learn more about these misunderstood birds that face a variety of threats in many areas where they live. Free with Aquarium admission.

Volunteer Open Houses, Thursday, September 20, 4 - 7 p.m.

Learn how volunteers work either behind the scenes for stores or exhibits, amidst the guests as docents, or on the beach with stranded marine mammals or sea turtles. Representatives from Virginia Aquarium departments will be available to answer questions. An escorted min-tour of the Aquarium will be given as well. Volunteer applications may be submitted at the open house or at a later date.

Commontion in the Ocean, October 20, 8 p.m. - midnight

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center's Commotion in the Ocean annual fund raising event will be held October 20, from 8 a.m. - midnight. Last spring, the event was officially recognized as Best Charity Gala by the Virginia Living Magazine.

This year, Commotion in the Ocean will feature the band Carbon Jam. Guests can dance in a nightclub atmosphere, compete in "throwback" games like ping-pong and foosball, shop the silent auction mall of travel packages and exquisite merchandise, partake of abundant food and beverages, and enjoy the Aquarium exhibits in a festive atmosphere.

Commotion in the Ocean tickets cost $75 per person, and include admission, food, beer and wine. Valet parking is provided. Advanced tickets are highly recommended.  To purchase tickets visit http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/.

The event is organized by the Aquarium Connection, a group of Hampton Roads' young professionals who raise money for the Virginia Aquarium Foundation. This year's Commotion in the Ocean proceeds will help the Virginia Aquarium invest in technology upgrades for educational programming as well as the research & conservation division. 

Monster Maddness, Friday, October 26, 6 - 9 p.m.

Celebrate Halloween early by attending the Virginia Aquarium's annual Monster Madness where adults and children dress-up and enjoy nature-themed crafts, storytelling and a chance to meet some "creepy" creatures.

The event costs $10 each for adult and children. A paying adult must accompany children.

Seasonal Boat Trips

Dolphin Watching, through October 8!

Observe bottlenose dolphins and their dynamic behaviors during a 90-minute ocean excursion. Experienced educators on board will introduce you to Virginia's favorite seasonal visitors. Call 757 385-FISH for more information or visit http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/ for the schedule. Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed. Trips may be cancelled due to boating conditions.
*FEE: $21 per adult (12 years & over); $15 per child (4 - 11 years old)

Cruise the Creek, through October 8! 

Explore Owls Creek during a gentle 30-minute pontoon cruise focused on salt marsh ecology. Scan the mudflats for fiddler crabs and animal tracks, listen for the calls of osprey and kingfishers, and look for signs of muskrat and otter activities. Call 757 385-FISH for more information or visit http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/ for the schedule. FEE: $7 per person; $5 for members or combo tickets.

Premium Experiences

Guests can enhance their visit to the Virginia Aquarium by purchasing Premium Experiences. This includes the immersive experience Seal Splash as well as Behind the Scene Tours with seals, sea turtles and sharks. Visit http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/. for details.

3D IMAX^® Theater  

See a film in a theater that is six stories high! Nature-related films get top billing at the Aquarium's 3D IMAX Theater and, occasionally, full-length feature films. To find out the Aquarium's current offerings and film schedule, call (757) 385-FISH or visit: http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/. Advance ticket sells are encouraged and available on the website.

Discovery Days, ages 4 - 6 

Programs include age appropriate discussions, activities and crafts. All programs are from 2-3:15 p.m. in the Marsh Pavilion Discovery Room unless otherwise noted. Fee: $7 members, $10 non-members 

Pre-registration is strongly recommended: call 385-0278 or e-mail programs@VirginiaAquarium.com .  

September 6 - The Cat's Meow
Animals like to be the biggest, prettiest, and strongest.  Dress up as your favorite animal, as we explore the different ways animals try to prove that they are the best. 


September 20 - Playing Opossum
When scared, some animals go so far as to play dead, spit-up their stomachs, or leave their tails behind.  Join us as we investigate the neat ways animals react when they're scared.


October 4 - Trekking through Nature
See the colors, smell the marsh, hear the birds, feel the fur and let the natural world tickle your senses as we hike on the nature trail.


October 18 - Creatures of the Night
Owls, bats, insects and more…come learn what animals come out at night in the trees or on the forest floor.  Learn what allows some animals to be nocturnal and meet one of our resident owls.

Bonus Experiences!, free with Aquarium admission

Wildflower Wednesdays, through August 29, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.  
Join us in the Wildflower Garden, outside the Bay & Ocean Pavilion, to learn how to turn your yard into a backyard habitat for wildlife. Free with Aquarium admission 

Myths and Mysteries of the Dark, October 6 - 9, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Sea pigs and vampire squid are just two of the fascinating creatures that live in the dark. Guests can take the Myths and Mysteries of the Dark Challenge to find out about these and other denizens of the dark!

Just for Toddlers! , free with paid admission 

Toddler Tuesdays, 11 a.m.
Bring your preschoolers on Tuesdays for this age-appropriate program that includes stories, songs, and an adventure in the Aquarium.  On the third Tuesday of the month, we feature a puppet show.  These 30-minute programs are held in the Marsh Pavilion.

Toddler Trek, Thursdays, 11 a.m.
Join us for Toddler Trek Thursdays, an outdoor exploration session for early learners and their parents. Every Thursday, take an easy 30-minute stroll along the Nature Trail to discover a new animal, color, or shape through fun outdoor activities. This program meets in the Marsh Pavilion and takes place inside during inclement weather.

Early Expeditions, Wednesdays, 11 a.m.
Every Wednesday, bring your toddler to the Conservation Station in the Bay and Ocean Pavilion to solve an animal mystery. Hone your problem solving skills and help us figure out the "who, what, when, where and why" of the animal world. 

The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums whose mission is conservation through education. The Aquarium is located at 717 General Booth Boulevard, just south of Rudee Inlet in Virginia Beach.  For more information on exhibits, movies, boat rides and special events, call (757) 385-FISH (3474), (TDD 385-4305) or visit www.VirginiaAquarium.com .

Virginia Beach Welcome's the Shriners and Their Famous Parade

 The tradition continues the first week after Labor Day as Virginia Beach residents enjoy the entertainment provided by the Mid-Atlantic Shrine Association (MASA), including parades, music and motorized competitions.  The association has held its annual convention in Virginia Beach for more than 20 years. 

 The Shriners are expected to bring 3,500 attendees and guests to the Oceanfront Sept. 7 to 10, with more than 5,000 hotel room nights. The association is also drumming up entertainment; free and open to the public. Their famous parade begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at 17^th Street and Atlantic Avenue, and continues to 27^th Street.  

Parade Schedule:

Saturday, Sept. 8

MASA Shriners' Parade begins at 9:30 a.m.

17^th - 27^th Street (on Atlantic Avenue), starts at 17^th Street at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Temporary road closures will occur along Atlantic Avenue (from 9^th Street through 29^th Street) for parade routes on Sept. 8 beginning at 8:30 a.m.  All streets will be reopened by 2 p.m.  For more information on street closures, please call the City of Virginia Beach Resort Management Office at (757) 385-4800. For interviews or additional information about the Mid-Atlantic Shrine Association, please contact George Eason, Secretary/Treasurer of MASA, at (757) 880-0615.

###

 VirginiaDOT.org

RELEASE: IMMEDIATE                                                                                       Aug. 29, 2012

CONTACT: Lauren Hansen: (757) 925-1660                

Media Emergency Number: (757) 925-2584                                                               

HR-1228

MULTIPLE WATER CROSSINGS TO CLOSE FOR

MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS

Motorists should use detours in place and anticipate delays

SUFFOLK- The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will close multiple lanes at a variety of water crossings over the next two months. Numerous projects are scheduled for maintenance activities and closures will begin after Labor Day.

All eastbound lanes of the Interstate 64 Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) will be closed beginning the weekend of Sept.14, 2012, for paving operations. For three consecutive weekends, motorists are advised to use the Interstate 664 Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel (MMMBT) as an alternate route. A signed detour will be in place. Weekend closures are scheduled as follows:

• Friday, Sept. 14, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday, Sept.17, at 5 a.m.
• Friday, Sept. 21, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday, Sept. 24, at 5 a.m.
• Friday, Sept.  28, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday Oct. 1, at 5 a.m. (Rain Date)

The Route 17 James River Bridge southbound lanes will close for five consecutive weekends so crews can begin replacing the bridge grid deck. Beginning on Friday, Sept. 14, crews will close all southbound lanes. Upon completion of work on the southbound lanes, crews will close the northbound lanes for four consecutive weekends. Motorists are advised to use the MMMBT as an alternate route. The weekend closure schedule is as follows:

• Friday, Sept.  14, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday, Sept. 17, at 5 a.m.
• Friday, Sept.  21, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday, Sept.  24, at 5 a.m.
• Friday, Sept.  28, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday, Oct. 1, at 5 a.m.
• Friday, Oct. 5, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday, Oct. 8, at 5 a.m.
• Friday, Oct. 12, beginning at 9 p.m. until Monday, Oct.15, at 5 a.m.

All maintenance operations will occur during periods with the least possible impact to motorists, while maintaining safe and efficient travel conditions throughout the area.  These scheduled maintenance activities are weather dependent.

VDOT has begun an aggressive outreach campaign that encompasses billboards, radio and television spots on local stations, social media platforms, and print ads in various daily and weekly publications.

Motorists are encouraged to call 511 or the Traffic Information Line at 757-361-3016, visit www.511virginia.org, or listen to Highway Advisory Radio (HAR) 1680 AM for current traffic and travel information.

For additional project information please visit:

http://www.virginiadot.org/projects/hampton%20roads/default.asp

                                                            ###

Vans' Inaugural LXVI BMX Invitational Hits the Beach at the East Coast Surfing Championships August 24th and 25th
Scotty Cranmer, Ryan Guettler, Ryan Nyquist and Cory Nastazio among the Big Names Heading to Virginia Beach

Ryan G.

Crammer

Cypress, CA (August 15, 2012) - The first LXVI BMX Invitational presented by Vans hits the beach on August 24^th and 25^th at the historic Virginia Beach Oceanfront alongside the Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships presented by Vans.  The LXVI BMX Invitational challenges twenty of the world's best BMX riders including Scotty Cranmer, Ryan Guettler, Ryan Nyquist and Cory Nastazio as they compete in a triple box jump contest for their share of a $25,000 prize purse.  

This summer's LXVI BMX Invitational will be held in conjunction with the 50^th anniversary of the Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships, the oldest surf contest in North America and the second longest continuously-run surf contest in the world. The Coastal Edge ECSC beach festival, held on August 20^th - 26^th, features skateboarding, BMX and motocross demos along with music and other beach activities throughout the weekend.  

Expected Riders Include:
Scotty Cranmer (2012 X-Games Gold BMX Park, 2012 Dew Tour Champion BMX Park), Ryan Guettler (2005 Dew Tour Champion BMX Dirt and Park, X-Games medalist), Pat Casey, Gary Young, Kyle Baldock, Cory Nastazio (X-Games medalist), Ryan Nyquist (numerous X-Games medals and Dew Tour championships), Brett Banasiewicz, Dennis Enarson, Jeremiah Smith, and Brandon Dosch.

Expected Judges Include:
Robbie Morales (Cult), Keith Mulligan (Ride BMX), Ben Crockett (BMX Plus!), Dave Brumlow and Allan Cooke.

Contest Schedule - Best 2 out of 3 Runs
Thursday, Aug. 23^rd 2PM - 4PM - Open Practice
Friday, Aug. 24^th 12PM - 2PM - Qualifiers
Saturday, Aug. 25^th 12PM - 1PM - Finals

Prizes:
1^st place: $5,000
2^nd place: $3,750
3^rd place: $3,000
Runner ups will receive a portion of the $25,000 purse.

Year in and year out, the Coastal Edge ECSC is also one of the largest surf events held globally with more than 800 participants across more than 35 divisions in 2011.  Produced annually by the Virginia Beach Jaycees and managed by Resort Management, LLC, the Coastal Edge ECSC beach festival is open to the public and is free of charge.  Portions of the proceeds raised at the CE-ECSC benefit the Jaycees many charitable projects.  For event information, visit www.surfecsc.com .  Contact: George@surfecsc.com for sponsorship inquiries.

The Vans LXVI BMX Invitational is made possible by the support of Vans, Coastal Edge, and vitaminwater.

For more information on the Vans LXVI BMX Invitational, please visit www.vans.com/ecsc. Use hashtag #ecsc to post photos on the website and keep track of live updates during the festival.

To learn more about Vans BMX and our team, visit www.vans.com/bmx.

The New Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation Awards Their First Scholarships

(Virginia Beach, VA) The new Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation (VBTTF) is pleased to announce scholarships to two (2) deserving students. Markita Kearney, an associate degree freshman student at Tidewater Community College will receive a $500.00 scholarship from the VBTTF. Ms. Kearney is majoring in Business Management and concentrating in Social Science. She is currently employed by VSA Resorts as a Vacation Sales Consultant and worked previously at the Virginia Beach Convention Center with Distinctive Gourmet. Ms. Kearney expects to graduate in December 2014. Her letter of recommendation and support received from VSA compliments Ms. Kearney's customer-centric approach, flawless attendance record and dedication to client vacation experiences.

Anne Nowak, a Master of Arts degree graduate student at Virginia Polytechnic and State University, will receive a $500.00 scholarship from the VBTTF. Ms. Nowak is majoring in Instructional Technology. She is currently employed by GoldKey/PHR Hotels and Resorts as a Process Management Design Specialist. Ms. Nowak expects to graduate in December 2013. Her letter of recommendation and support received from GoldKey/PHR compliments Ms. Nowak's role in documenting business processes and preparing collateral materials utilized in the training and development for their 2,000 associates.

The Scholarship Program was established in 2011 by the VBTTF Board of Directors. The Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation endeavors to identify and reward the best and the brightest of the hospitality and tourism's next generation of leaders. To do so, each school year it asks college students meeting certain requirements to complete and submit an application and other required information, write a short essay, and if selected, appear before a VBTTF interview panel. The Foundation offers multiple $500 scholarships. Applications for the 2013-2014 academic year will be accepted beginning in the spring of 2013. Additional information can be found at the Foundation's website www.vbttf.com

###

The VBTTF's mission is to both recognize and promote the invaluable contributions that the city's hotels, motels, timeshares, restaurants, retail stores, attractions, entertainment venues, and other enterprises make to support our community's economic vitality and quality of life.

The Foundation also provides scholarships for Virginia Beach students enrolled in culinary arts, hospitality and tourism management or another related discipline at an accredited public, private or for-profit college or university in the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

The VBTTF additionally assists in building community partnerships in Virginia Beach to support favourable travel and tourism related policies and programs to help further strengthen and unify our City's hospitality industry.

Finally, the Foundation supports educational efforts and research reports on the Coastal Virginia Region's travel and tourism sectors.

All Tickets on Sale Friday, July 27, at 10 a.m.

Thursday, July 26, 2012 · 11:00 am

~ School Supplies, Clothing and Footwear will be Exempt from Sales Tax ~

RICHMOND - If you're among the thousands of Virginia parents preparing to send their children back to school, it's time to start getting your shopping list together.  The Commonwealth's seventh annual back-to-school Sales Tax Holiday returns in August, just in time to help Virginians save some money. 

 During this three-day event, which begins Friday, Aug. 3, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 5, most school supplies costing $20 or less each and clothing items and footwear priced at $100 or less each will be exempt from Virginia's 5 percent state and local sales tax.  The list of tax-exempt items is the same as last year and includes such products as pens, pencils, loose leaf ruled notebook paper, scissors, binders, backpacks, construction paper, sneakers, dresses, jeans and T-shirts.

 "What better way to beat the summer heat than to go out and shop and support Virginia businesses," said Governor Bob McDonnell. "Of the Commonwealth's three sales tax holidays, this is the most popular because it helps parents around the state save money while purchasing essential school supplies, clothing and shoes to help their children have a successful year at school.  But it's also important to remember that you don't have to be going back to school to take advantage of these savings.  Who doesn't want to save money on office supplies and summer clothes?"

 An all-inclusive list of school supplies, a list of exempt clothing and footwear items, holiday guidelines for shoppers and retailers, and answers to frequently asked questions are available on the Department's Sales Tax Holiday Information Center at www.tax.virginia.gov.

As long as each item purchased qualifies for the exemption, there is no limit on the number of items you can buy.  During this sales tax holiday, retailers may also choose to save taxpayers even more by absorbing the sales tax, or paying it themselves, on items that are not eligible for exemption. The retailers must then pay the sales tax themselves on such sales.

###

37th Annual Art and Craft Festival takes place at Great Neck Park on September 8 & 9

Friday, July 20, 2012 · 11:00 am

Monday, July 30, 2012 from 6:00 - 7:30 pm at Baylake United Methodist Church

4300 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA

Release Date: Thursday, July 19, 2012 · 10:00 am

Media Contacts:

Brian Solis, (757) 385-1109 | bsolis@VBgov.com

Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Planning, Design & Development

Christy Everett (757) 622-1964 | ceverett@cbf.org

Chesapeake Bay Foundation

(Virginia Beach, VA) - Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation and Chesapeake Bay Foundation would like the public's feedback on conceptual plans drafted for the newly acquired Pleasure House Point property during a public open house on Monday, July 30, 2012 from 6:00 - 7:30 pm at Baylake United Methodist Church (in the Social Hall, 4300 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach).

Hosted by the City of Virginia Beach Department of Parks & Recreation and Chesapeake Bay Foundation, this Pleasure House Point Public Open House will provide an opportunity for citizens to discuss with staff the conceptual master planning ideas that have been developed with community stakeholders and provide feedback on the ultimate objectives for this natural public area.

Identified as a top priority for open space acquisition for the past decade, the 118-acre tract known as Pleasure House Point has been preserved by the City of Virginia Beach with help from the Trust for Public Land (TPL) and in collaboration with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Located just west of the Lesner Bridge and south of the Chesapeake Bay, Pleasure House Point is 118 acres of water, tidal marsh, sandy shores and maritime forest. The shallow water estuarine environment of the property provides habitat for the iconic Chesapeake Bay blue crab and the Lynnhaven oyster. This high-profile property was once being considered for a large waterfront development, but with the help of the Trust for Public Land, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the surrounding community, the City has recovered one of the largest undeveloped parcels of land on the Lynnhaven River for generations to come.

For more information about the Pleasure House Point Public Open House, please contact Brian Solis with Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation's Planning, Design & Development Division at 757-385-1109 or bsolis@VBgov.com, or Christy Everett with Chesapeake Bay Foundation at 757-622-1964 or ceverett@cbf.org. More information can be found by visiting www.VBgov.com/pleasurehousepoint

Virginia Beach Parks and Recreation's vision is a balanced, sustainable and value-focused system of parks, recreation and public spaces that creates a sense of community.  We are accredited by CAPRA, the certifying agency of the National Recreation and Park Association. For more information, call (757) 385-1100 (TTY: 711 Virginia Relay), visit VBgov.com/parks or sign up our email newsletters at VBgov.com/eNews.

# # #

10:30 am, Wednesday, July 25, 2012 at Red Wing Park's Miyazaki Garden | 1398 General Booth Boulevard

Tuesday, July 17, 2012 · 03:00 pm

Friday, August 17, 2012, 7 pm - 10 pm | Mount Trashmore Park, Virginia Beach, VA | Free Admission and Free Parking

Monday, July 16, 2012 · 12:00 pm

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 12, 2012

MEDIA CONTACT:
Mark A. Reed
(757)385-5104

New Sightseeing Tour Offers Stories of Old and New Virginia Beach

(Virginia Beach, VA) Everyone enjoys a good story, and the Virginia Beach Historical Houses newest program is full of them. The Spirits, Myths,& Mysteries Tour, offered on Saturdays only, is a three-hour  adventure  discovering some of the ghosts, witches, myths, and mysteries that are part of the region's history. Beginning at the beach, the tour makes three stops (approximately 30 minutes each) which include the Adam Thoroughgood House, the Lynnhaven House, and the Old Coast Guard Station.

The route encompasses a cross-section of Virginia Beach which a tour guide highlights while guests enjoy a comfortable bus ride. These sightseeing areas include: the Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club; the Association of Research and Enlightenment (ARE); First Landing State Park; the Lesner Bridge over Lynnhaven Inlet; the Grace Sherwood statue at Bayside Hospital; Town Center; the Visitors and Convention Center; as well as residential areas along the way.

The tour is designed for adults ($12 each) and children ages 8 and above ($8 each). On Saturdays, participants meet the tour bus by 9:45 a.m. at the corner of 24 St. and Atlantic Ave. Tickets can either be purchased at http://www.virginiaaquarium.com/, or by visiting or calling Virginia Aquarium Guest Services (757 385-0300). Advance reservations are required.

# # #

Dennis Santos
(757) 385-6977

City of Virginia Beach Receives Two National Awards for Diversity

The City of Virginia Beach Inclusion and Diversity Council (IDC) was recently honored by two national organizations for its efforts to ensure that the city organization embraces diversity and creates and sustains an environment of inclusion for all employees.  The IDC, formed in 2009, consists of employees who volunteer their time to help the city reach this goal.

The IDC was awarded the Champion of Diversity Award by the American Association for Affirmative Action (AAAA). The Champion of Diversity Award is given to an organization that demonstrates a dedication to fostering equal opportunity and exceptional commitment to diversity.

In addition, The Association of Diversity Councils has named the IDC one of 25 winners of the 2012 Diversity Council Honors Award. The award will be presented at a dinner Oct. 4 in Washington at the annual Diversity Council Conference, where the top 25 rankings will be revealed. The winning councils come from corporations, government agencies, the military and higher education institutions.

The award honors outstanding contributions and achievements of councils that lead diversity processes in their organizations and demonstrate results in their workforce, workplace and marketplace. Applicants were judged in four categories: demonstrated council results, demonstrated management commitment, measurement and accountability, and communication and education.

# # #

News Release:  VBgov.com/Info

201fin

1-5

The New Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation Awards Their First Scholarships

(Virginia Beach, VA) The new Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation (VBTTF) is pleased to announce scholarships to two (2) deserving students. Markita Kearney, an associate degree freshman student at Tidewater Community College will receive a $500.00 scholarship from the VBTTF. Ms. Kearney is majoring in Business Management and concentrating in Social Science. She is currently employed by VSA Resorts as a Vacation Sales Consultant and worked previously at the Virginia Beach Convention Center with Distinctive Gourmet. Ms. Kearney expects to graduate in December 2014. Her letter of recommendation and support received from VSA compliments Ms. Kearney's customer-centric approach, flawless attendance record and dedication to client vacation experiences.

Anne Nowak, a Master of Arts degree graduate student at Virginia Polytechnic and State University, will receive a $500.00 scholarship from the VBTTF. Ms. Nowak is majoring in Instructional Technology. She is currently employed by GoldKey/PHR Hotels and Resorts as a Process Management Design Specialist. Ms. Nowak expects to graduate in December 2013. Her letter of recommendation and support received from GoldKey/PHR compliments Ms. Nowak's role in documenting business processes and preparing collateral materials utilized in the training and development for their 2,000 associates.

The Scholarship Program was established in 2011 by the VBTTF Board of Directors. The Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation endeavors to identify and reward the best and the brightest of the hospitality and tourism's next generation of leaders. To do so, each school year it asks college students meeting certain requirements to complete and submit an application and other required information, write a short essay, and if selected, appear before a VBTTF interview panel. The Foundation offers multiple $500 scholarships. Applications for the 2013-2014 academic year will be accepted beginning in the spring of 2013. Additional information can be found at the Foundation's website www.vbttf.com

###

The VBTTF's mission is to both recognize and promote the invaluable contributions that the city's hotels, motels, timeshares, restaurants, retail stores, attractions, entertainment venues, and other enterprises make to support our community's economic vitality and quality of life.

The Foundation also provides scholarships for Virginia Beach students enrolled in culinary arts, hospitality and tourism management or another related discipline at an accredited public, private or for-profit college or university in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The VBTTF additionally assists in building community partnerships in Virginia Beach to support favourable travel and tourism related policies and programs to help further strengthen and unify our City's hospitality industry.

Finally, the Foundation supports educational efforts and research reports on the Coastal Virginia Region's travel and tourism sectors.

City of Virginia Beach and Old Dominion University

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                               
June 19, 2012

MEDIA CONTACTS:                                                      
Warren Harris,
Economic Development Director
(757) 385-6464,
wharris@vbgov.com

Jennifer Mullen Collins, ODU
(757) 683-3114,
jmullen@odu.edu

ODU to Launch Transportation Center in Virginia Beach
In Agreement with City Development Authority

In an agreement with the Virginia Beach Development Authority, Old Dominion University will launch the Center for Innovative Transportation Solutions (CITS) in Virginia Beach Town Center, positioning the city and university at the forefront of transportation research for the region and beyond.

 The center, slated to open later this summer, will focus on developing and applying innovative techniques, including the expansive use of modeling and simulation, to address a broad variety of transportation challenges and issues facing the region, state and nation.

 "Old Dominion University and the City of Virginia Beach have partnered for many years to create opportunities for the betterment of the city, university, region and its citizens," said ODU Chief Operating Officer David F. Harnage.  "The Center for Innovative Transportation Solutions is a continuation of that strong partnership and we look forward to the promising work that will come from our joint efforts in CITS."

 Virginia Beach Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr. added, "This is a very timely project for the city and ODU. For years now, I have said that transportation the No. 1 issue in Hampton Roads. As former chairman of the region's transportation planning group, I am proud that Virginia Beach will host this center, dedicated to finding creative solutions to moving people and goods through Hampton Roads."

 Approved June 19 by the Development Authority, the agreement provides ODU office space in One Columbus Center, valued at approximately $50,000 per year, for three years.  In return, CITS will complete detailed transportation simulation and modeling research of an equivalent value for Virginia Beach. The topic will be jointly selected by researchers and city leaders.

 "Cities face many complex issues in transportation, and elected officials and city managers must make decisions that benefit their citizens and provide the basis for economic growth," said John Sokolowski, executive director of Old Dominion's Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center.  "Modeling and simulation enables decision-makers to see the impact of planned improvements on congestion and ease of access to neighborhoods and businesses, resulting in better informed decisions and more successful projects. This partnership between Old Dominion and Virginia Beach brings together the transportation research resources and urban planning capabilities to solve these complex issues for the benefit of all."

 Six researchers will be housed at CITS, with others joining them to collaborate on specific projects.  Asad Khattak, Old Dominion's Batten Chair in Transportation, will serve as director.

 Khattak also leads Old Dominion's work as part of a five-university team recently named a Tier One University Transportation Center (UTC) by the U.S. Department of Education.  Work on the $3.5 million grant to integrate real-time data systems and advanced transportation applications to better manage congestion while minimizing environmental impacts, will be done at CITS.  Researchers will also study alternative fuels and technologies, fuel conservation, urban studies, land use and public policy to support transportation decision making at the local, regional and national levels.

 In addition, other possible areas of research include:

• multimodal transportation planning, including signal light timing, public transportation planning and analysis, potential growth of light rail, and simulation of future traffic patterns;
• intelligent transportation systems, including Advanced Traveler Information Systems, advanced sensors analysis, and inter-vehicle and vehicle-to-vehicle communications;
• safety and security, including driver and passenger behaviors and evacuation transportation plans; and
• transportation impacts of climate change and sea level rise.

 Old Dominion University is Virginia's forward-focused metropolitan research university with rigorous academics, an energetic residential community, and engaging and relevant learning opportunities that teach skills for success. With a determined entrepreneurial approach that drives research and collaboration, the university contributes nearly $1 billion annually to the local economy. 

 Old Dominion has held classes in Virginia Beach since 1988, and currently offers 28 bachelor's and 17 master's and doctoral degree programs.  Nearly 2,000 students take courses and 90 professors teach at ODU's Virginia Beach campus in Princess Anne Commons.   The university recently announced the relocation of its nurse anesthesia program to Virginia Beach.

 # # #

News Release:  VBgov.com/Info

 Monday, June 18, 2012 · 03:30 pm

 International Fellowship of Churches, Inc.
Bishop Audrey F. Bronson, Presiding Prelate

Date: June 13, 2012                                                               
Contact: James W. Franklyn
Press Release: Immediate                                                                 
Phone: 215-878-1877

The International Fellowship of Churches, Inc. is an affiliation of churches under the leadership of the renowned Bishop Audrey F. Bronson.  International Fellowship of Churches, Inc. (IFC) is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA and is dedicated to being representative of Christ, an agent of change, and a reflection of Christ's love for humanity.  As such, IFC takes seriously the church's charge to feed the hungry and has inaugurated the Audrey F. Bronson International Fellowship of Churches Food Cupboard.  This is an outreach arm of IFC that is committed to assisting food banks and or churches in their quest to feed hungry people.  IFC celebrates their Power Conference annually in June in different cities throughout the United States.  This year they will be in Virginia Beach, VA from June 26 through June 29 and are initiating this new outreach ministry by donating almost 200 pounds of canned goods and other non-perishable food to the food bank of the New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ in Virginia Beach, VA. 

 In spite of the lavishness that exemplifies the times in which we live, there are many people who are struggling daily just to get by.  It is estimated that Americans throw out 200,000 tons of edible food daily.  And yet, in the midst of excess there are many people who go to bed hungry on a daily basis.  Government reports estimate that about 50 million people could not put food on their tables at some point last year and that about 1 million children go to bed hungry every day.  Hunger is no longer just a problem of the homeless.  Many working people are struggling to put food on their tables also.  It is imperative that those thrive do not forget those who are merely trying to survive.

 International Fellowship of Churches developed the cupboard by asking every church member and anyone else with a desire to do good for others to donate two canned goods or to donate money for the purchase of two canned goods.  The response was overwhelming and at 9 a.m. on June 27, 2012 Bishop Bronson and IFC will launch the Audrey F. Bronson International Fellowship of Churches Food Cupboard with its donation to the food bank at New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ at 118 Erie Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA.  And every year thereafter, wherever the Power Conference is held IFC is dedicated to leaving behind an imprint of love and caring through the work of the Audrey F. Bronson International Fellowship of Churches, Inc. Food Cupboard.

 If you would like more information about the Food Cupboard please contact the International Fellowship of Churches, Inc. at 215-748-6510 or 215-878-1877

On July 27, the International Fellowship of Churches, Inc. donated more than 200 pounds of canned goods and non-perishable food to New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ in Virginia Beach as part of a  new outreach ministry initiative, the Audrey F. Bronson International Fellowship of Churches Food Cupboard, an annual commitment to leave behind an imprint of love and caring within the local community of wherever the Power Conference is held. The  International Fellowship of Churches, Inc. held their Power Conference at the Wyndham Oceanfront Hotel, and was able to make a difference in Virginia Beach.

Here are some photos from the event:

The 25-28 May weekend-which is viewed as a bellwether for performance in June, July and August-saw strong gains in average daily rate and revenue per available room over comparable weekdays last year, according to STR, parent company of HotelNewsNow.com.

US hotel performance Memorial Day weekend* (2012 vs. 2011)

*Values show percent changes for the comparable days of week in 2012 versus those in 2011
Source: STR

"It's really the unofficial start of the summer season," said Bill Sutherland, VP of travel services for U.S. motorist group AAA. "Typically the Memorial Day weekend … is fairly consistent with what will happen in the summer."

In this case, he said that consistency will spell great things for the U.S. hotel industry.

"Summer is looking quite strong," said Tim Hart, TravelClick's executive VP. "We're seeing occupancy up in June about 6%, in July about 8% and up over 12% in August. That's probably-at the far reaches of the summer in August-that's probably more explained by group than it is yet by transient because it's still a bit early in the transient booking curve, but there's still quite healthy transient demand building for that period as well."

Bill Sutherland AAA

Mark Van Amerongen Prism Hotels & Resorts

STR in early May forecasted occupancy growth of 1.8%, ADR growth of 3.9% and RevPAR growth of 5.7% for the U.S. hotel industry.

Even on the individual company level, the summer outlook is strong. Best Western International's advanced summer bookings are up 21% from Memorial Day through Labor Day compared to 2011, a spokesperson told HotelNewsNow.com.

Mark Van Amerongen, senior VP of operations at Prism Hotels & Resorts, said, "We're pacing ahead of last year." The Dallas-based management company operates 52 properties across 13 brands throughout the country.

"The Memorial Day weekend, which is always kind of a bellwether … we were up a little over 8% in RevPAR at our comp hotels," he added.

Executives at Chesapeake Hospitality, which manages 43 hotels, reported similar findings.

"We're actually expecting pretty positive (results), and that's based on what we're already seeing in the transient booking pace," said Joseph Smith, executive VP at the Greenbelt, Maryland-based management company.

Leveraging demand
ADR might be projecting upward as the temperatures rise, but hoteliers still are reporting a slow haul when it comes to pushing rate.

"Unfortunately, we 're still in a world where as much as you try you're somewhat either handicapped or held in check by your comp set and what they're doing," Smith said. "While I've never believed that rate increases demand, the fact of the matter is that even though I want to raise my rates and have them high, if everybody else in my comp set isn't moving with me, I've got to do what I have to do to stay competitive."

It's easier to do in some markets than others, Van Amerongen said.

"We're starting to see in certain markets over certain timeframes where we can push rate because of some very good demand patterns," he said.

Indeed, data from TravelClick shows ADR for June is up versus this time last year. The outlook is even stronger for the July to September period, during which ADR is up 7.5%.

The team at Prism is attempting to push rate through value-add packages, Van Amerongen said. At the Holiday Inn Select Denver Cherry Creek, for example, operators are bundling a two-night stay with two tickets to a nearby waterpark. And at the Hilton San Francisco Financial District, buddies can enjoy the "Bromantic Package," which bundles a guestroom for two with a six-pack of Budweiser beer and a discounted round of golf at Presidio Golf Course.

Sutherland at AAA said travelers continue to be in tune with price and value. "If I'm going to still spend X amount of dollars for my travel going forward, I want to make sure I'm getting more than I had in the past for that same amount of money," he said.

Bundling room rates with value-adds is a great way to drive revenues, he added.

"Be sure that the domestic travelers are getting a good bargain for their money," Sutherland said. "That would say to the traveler that the hotel industry is responsive to the need of the American traveler."

Jitters and shakes
Recent stock market volatility, coupled with uncertainty overseas, has yet to cloud the summer outlook, sources said.

"Despite all the uncertainty in the economic environment, there's still a lot of bullishness among the traveling public in terms of at least the spend they have on travel, so I think there's some consumer confidence there," TravelClick's Hart said.

Joseph Smith Chesapeake Hospitality

Andreas Scriven Christie + Co

Anecdotally, Van Amerongen said more guests staying within the Prism portfolio are taking multi-leg trips. Instead of just visiting Chicago for a long weekend, he said by way of example, travelers are first visiting St. Louis or a few tertiary markets before spending time in the Windy City.

On the corporate side of the coin, stays are being booked for more nights and further in advance, he said.

"We're seeing a lot of our larger corporate clients, other than hiring internal, using more contractors and consultants and project teams, which tends to mean there's folks coming in from outside the local area," Van Amerongen said.

"Unless something drastic were to happen that would cause cancellation, I think we're set for a pretty good summer," Smith added.

LONDON-While U.S. hoteliers are basking in the warm glow of a favorable summer outlook, the forecast for their counterparts in the European Union is a bit cloudier.

Impending elections in Greece, financial pressures in Spain and uncertainty surrounding the euro in general are creating an atmosphere of doubt surrounding discretionary travel, according to Andreas Scriven, director and head of consultancy for Christie + Co.

The macroeconomic environment has been so "consistently inconsistent for so long," Smith said, that travelers are not getting deterred by an occasional hiccup in the market.

Whereas the market recovered slightly in 2010 as the shaky global economy began to stabilize, recent jitters have constrained booking windows and placed a greater emphasis on price and value, Scriven said.

"For us it's more likely that we're going to see that again (this summer) with very late decision making. Do the hoteliers and the tour operators have the nerve to hold on and not start dumping supply onto the market and eroding prices?" he said.

Prices are likely to increase in August, the height of the summer holiday season, he said. Unlike the U.S., where school vacation runs from June to early September, summer break in the EU is traditionally constrained to that single month.

But by and large the next few months in general will be a buyer's market, Scriven said.

"Holidays are still viewed as discretionary spend, and a lot of people are still facing difficult times," he said.

"They're just being a bit more cautious and more intelligent in how they book. They're asking for more for less money, which puts hoteliers in an interesting situation as they try to maintain occupancy levels without having to trade too much rate."

-Patrick Mayock

For originial article click here.

  13 FREE outdoor concerts are scheduled every Wednesday
June to August from 5 to 9 p.m.

For a full article from the Virginian Pilot Click here!

What "Andy Warhol: Portraits"

Where Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 2200 Parks Ave., Virginia Beach

When Opened, May 26, and ends Aug. 19; hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends

Cost $10 adults; $7 seniors, students (ages 5 and older) and active military; free for 4 and younger and members

Contact 425-0000, www.VirginiaMOCA.org

special programs:
Free unless noted. For more information, visit http://www.virginiamoca.org/.

"A Night With Andy" 6:30 p.m. June 8, a talk and book signing with the artist's nephew, James Warhola, and Thomas Kiedrowski, author of "Andy Warhol's New York City." $10.

"Uncle Andy's Cats" 10:30 a.m. June 9, James Warhola will read from some of his books.

"Studio 54 and Over: A Senior Social" 11 a.m. June 25, interactive tours and Warhol projects. $20.

"Seductive Subversion: Women Pop Artists" 6:30 p.m. Aug. 9, lecture by art historian-critic Linda McGreevy followed by a film on under-exposed women of Pop. $10, $7 students, seniors and military.

Warhol Family Fest 1 p.m. Aug. 19, Warhol-related projects plus free show entry on the show's final day. 

NORTH AMERICAN SAND SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIPS
North American Sand Soccer Championships go global as OPSAIL 2012 joins planet's hottest "Battle on the Beach"

With an average of SIXTY shots on goal per game, one of the world's largest sports festivals of the coming summer season descends on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront June 8-10 as the "North American Sand Soccer Championships (NASSC)", roll into the resort city for their 19^th year. Over 107,000 sand warriors from twenty states, and as many countries, have competed since the festival was created in 1994.

Presented by McDonald's of Southeastern VA and Northeastern NC, and registering nearly a thousand teams, NASSC will set yet another participant record. With thirty-two OPSAIL 2012 VIRGINIA international teams, plus the twenty countries represented in the festival's "U.S. OPEN" men's cash division, the Region will experience a global sports atmosphere, with Interstate 264 linking the equivalent of Olympic villages.

The tournament has again been selected by the Southeast Tourism Society (STS) as one of its "Top 20" summer attractions, and also recognized as one of the Top 100 free tourism venues in the United States. NASSC revenues permit continuing enhancements of the 75-acre Soccer Complex in Virginia Beach, made possible by a public/private partnership between the City of Virginia Beach and the "Hampton Roads Soccer Council (HRSC)".

Nearly eighty age/skill divisions will be battling on a mile and a half of seacoast city blocks, adjacent to the famed Virginia Beach Boardwalk between 14^th and 37^th Streets. The tournament format allows fun for all, from professionals down to novices trying out the rapidly building sport for a first time.

The tournament will present its 11^th "U.S. OPEN" as the festival's centerpiece in the Beach Stadium at 27^th St. This pro/am division involves ten of the best U.S. and international men's teams battling for a cash purse. The 2012 challengers will include former soccer All-Americans, Major League Soccer (MLS), and Beach Soccer World Cup veterans. The Caribbean will be represented for the first time with an entry from Trinidad and Tobago, Meanwhile, TEAM Canada is returning as well as TEAM Senegal, featuring African Beach Soccer Player of the Year Pape Jean Koupaki. Last year's U.S. OPEN champion "Florida Beach Soccer" is returning to defend its national crown and the local "HRSC Elite", overtime finalists in 2011, will be seeking their third national title.

NASSC has evolved into a multisport extravaganza since its 1994 inception by incorporating "SideKick" offerings. A COED Flag Football Beach Blastoff and the North American Beach SandLAX Championships will complement 2,200 sand soccer matches during the weekend.

The huge festival includes a free Saturday evening "Kid's Clinic" (13 and under), conducted by members of USA National Beach Soccer team, guest celebrities, and other pro players, This year's Tournament Celebrity is Francis Farberoff, Captain of the U.S. National Beach Soccer Team.

The North American Sand Soccer Championships are open to the public at no charge.

WANT TO GO?

Thursday, June 7
U.S. OPEN Players Reception (by invitation)
CP Shuckers, Va Beach, 8 PM

Friday, June 8
Men's U.S. OPEN (National Championships)
Beach Stadium, 27^th St, 8AM-8PM

NASSC Registration
VB Convention Center, 19^th St, 5-10 PM

Sponsor/Media Reception (by invitation)
Best Western Oceanfront, 5:30 PM

Saturday, June 9
Sand Soccer Games
14^th-37 Sts, 8 AM-sunset

U.S. OPEN continues in stadium
8 AM-7:30 PM

OPSAIL 2012 VIRGINIA International Fleet Competition
26^th St, 8 AM-7:15 PM

Beach COED Football Competition
14^th St, 9 AM-6 PM

Beach Lacrosse Competition
37^th St, 9 AM

Deloitte Kid's Clinic
Stadium, 7:30 PM

Sunday, June 10th
All events resume
SS matches 8 AM-6 PM
U.S. OPEN Consolations
8 AM-11 AM, Stadium
U.S. OPEN Bronze Medal Match
12 PM, Stadium
U.S. OPEN Nat'l Championship
1:30 PM, Stadium
OPSAIL Fleet Championship
5:30 PM, Stadium area

Additional Contacts for Reference:

• Administrator/Scheduler Karen Knott 757-368-4600
• Operations Director Matt Whalen 757-407-1421C
• US OPEN Director Joe Ruddy 757-434-1861C
• COED Flag Football Jay DelVecchio 757-428-7496
• Beach Lacrosse Jim Willcox JLWillcox@verizon.net
• Beach Soccer NGOs www.fifa.com; www.bsww.org; www.abs.org
• OPSAIL Inquiries Becky Bump www.specialassignments.biz
• McDonald's (MOROCH) Katherine Capocelli 804-320-6376 X 103

NASSC 2012 MILITARY AFFILIATES (Logistics Support)
Helicopter Sea Control Squadron TWO
Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron FOURTEEN
Fleet Readiness Center Mid-Atlantic
Navy Region Medical Center, Portsmouth
Assault Craft Unit FOUR
ODU Army and Navy ROTC
Naval Surface Force Atlantic
USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT (CVN 71)
USS HARRY S. TRUMAN (CVN 75)
USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN 69)

OPSAIL INTERNATIONAL DIVISION TEAMS
USS TRUMAN FC CCSG
CISNCE BRANCO COAST GUARD FC
ELCANO cadets FC GUARDIANS
ELCANO crew ESBERN SNARE
USCG YORKTOWN ARGUS WANDERERS
PATROL COASTAL CREW USACE
ARM CUAUHTEMOC USCG BM A SCHOOL
DEWARUCI GUAYAS
US NAVAL ACADEMY GLORIA
FGS HESSEN USS BATAAN
PERUVIAN TRAINING SHIP BERMY SPIRIT
EAGLES BNS INDEPENDENCIA
USS WASP HMCS MONCTON
HMCS GOOS USS MESA VERDE
HNoMS THOR HEYERDAHL 1 HNoMS THOR HEYERDAHL 2
TCY A SKOO FGS HESSEN II

Mix 107.3's Jack Diamond in the Morning held a special kick-off-to-summer broadcast live from Virginia Beach on Friday, May 25.The show, based in Washington D.C., helped launch Memorial Day weekend by highlighting Virginia Beach as a go-to summer destination. Broadcasting from the patio of Catch31 at the Hilton, Jack Diamond (along with morning show co-hosts Aly, Brooke Ryan and Jimmy Alexander) delivered the latest news, music and Virginia Beach atmosphere to all of their DC listeners.

Media contacts:
Dave Iwans
Dave.iwans@diainc.com
757-314-3100 

Debbie Schwartz
Debbie.schwartz@diainc.com
757-314-3100

Soccer teams from OpSail 2012 Virginia™ to participate in the
2012 North American Sand Soccer Championships, 19^th Edition

NORFOLK, Va. - (May 25, 2012) - Each year in early June, dedicated soccer fans throng to the Virginia Beach oceanfront to watch hundreds of teams and thousands of players compete in what has become known as the globe's premier single-weekend sand soccer festival.  This year, the North American Sand Soccer Championships, June 8-10, will also play host to 32 teams, representing local military commands and ships' crews from around the world, playing in a very special OpSail 2012 Virginia™ Division.

The division will field teams from the U.S., Spain, Denmark, Brazil, Mexico, Norway, Peru, Ecuador, Germany, Columbia, Indonesia and the United Kingdom. Matches will be played on two grids located at 26^th Street at the Oceanfront.

Beginning at 8:30 a.m., the sand soccer championship matches last through sunset. Played against an ocean backdrop, teams of 5 versus 5 will play the fast-paced matches on 25-35 or 30-40 yard grids.

NASSC director, Dick Whalen, remarked, "we're delighted to host OPSAIL international teams in our 19th annual sports festival. They will be competing near our large Beach Stadium at 27th St on the oceanfront where the "U.S. OPEN" men's national championship will be held, featuring highly skilled athletes from twenty nations. Our hope is that many new friendships will be made during a thrilling weekend of sun, sand and beach soccer, while at the same time, giving our visiting OPSAIL mariners a chance to stretch their "sea legs". With extensive OPSAIL activities on the Norfolk waterfront and sand soccer on Virginia Beach, Interstate 264 will truly be a route to major global excitement!"

The U.S. OPEN Championship and OpSail 2012 Virginia™ Fleet semifinals and finals matches will take place Sunday afternoon, June 10. adjacent to 26th Street on the Oceanfrontadjacent to 26th Street on the Oceanfrontadjacent to 26th Street on the Oceanfrontador, Colombia, Indonesia, Germany and the United Kingdomador, Colombia, Indonesia, Germany and the United Kingdom will make up the division. Competition will be on two fields adjacent to 26th Street on the Oceanfront. Swing by and see some exciting international competition!

ador, Colombia, Indonesia, Germany and the United Kingdom will make up the division. Competition will be on two fields adjacent to 26th Street on the Oceanfront. Swing by and see some exciting international competition!

###

Virginia Beach earns 4 out of 5 "Park Benches" in The Trust for Public Land ParkScore(TM) Ratings

Thursday, May 24, 2012 · 09:00 am

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ashby Moss (757) 385-8573
Jolilda Saunders (757) 385-4621                                                                                                                               

Second Round of Public Meetings Planned for
Centerville Strategic Growth Area

The City of Virginia Beach will hold two public meetings during the second phase of the master planning process for the Centerville Strategic Growth Area (SGA).  Centerville is the last of eight SGAs identified in the City's Comprehensive Plan to undergo this planning process of understanding, exploring and deciding on a long-range master plan for this area.

In early May, the City of Virginia Beach held the first round of public meetings to receive broad public input on the SGA's strengths, weaknesses and opportunities.  These meetings resulted in a set of draft design principles and a potential boundary expansion for the Centerville SGA.  During the second planning phase, the Design Team will hold a week-long Design Workshop to refine these principles into future design scenarios for the SGA and obtain more specific public input. 

As part of a week-long Design Workshop, the public is invited to an open house on Wednesday, June 6, from 6 to 8 p.m., to view the work in progress and talk with the design team.  A public meeting is also planned for Thursday, June 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. to view a presentation on the refined design principles and design scenarios developed during the Design Workshop.  Both meetings will be held at Atlantic Shores Baptist Church, Family Life Center Building, 1861 Kempsville Road.

For information on the Centerville Strategic Growth Area Plan, contact Ashby Moss in the Planning Department at (757) 385-4621 or visit www.VBgov.com/centervilleplan.

# # #

News Release:  VBgov.com/Info

NORFOLK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

• Site work for a new parking garage
• Expansion of USA/Armed Forces YMCA Welcome Center and Interfaith Chapel
• New Dining Facilities
• New Electronic Charging Stations
• New Retail Facilities

Click here for more details

The Virginia Beach Boardwalk  is home to a three-mile boardwalk that evokes a nautical theme with an Old Coast Guard Station, the Atlantic Wildfowl Heritage Museum and sea-centric sculptures like a 34-foot statue of King Neptune (God of the Sea). Right across from the pier, the small 15th Street Amusement Park offers a carnival atmosphere with rides like the wild, spinning Skyscraper that shoots you up into the air. Kids also gravitate toward the Hurricane, Music Express, Comic Storm and Inverter. Families also love the four-seat surrey bikes, which can be ridden along a bike path parallel to the promenade to small, peaceful parks off the beach. When you need a bite to eat, sample the local blue crab at Crab 31 Restaurant. Live music venues are also along the boardwalk and beach.

Family Vacation Article

There have recently been reports of an unidentified person calling hotel rooms, claiming to be the front desk, and asking the guest for personal information.   They tell them the computers went down and their payment information was lost, so they need them to provide their credit card and personal info again over the phone.   If the guest mentions going to the front desk to give the info, they are advised not to because of the crowd in the lobby due to the computers being down, and that the hotel will give them a discount off their room for the inconvenience.

Remember, please do not give your personal information to unknown callers.   If you do receive a call like this, please do go to the front desk and confirm in person if there is a legitimate need to give any additional information.  

If anyone has shared their information and feel they may be the victim of a fraud, they will need to make a report to us.   The non-emergency police contact number is 385-5000.  We will follow-up on the reported thefts as best possible.    Our Detective Bureau's Economic Crime Unit (385-4101) typically handles any theft over $200.xx.  Lesser theft amounts will be examined at the local police precinct level. 

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Mike Eason
(757) 385-6639
meason@vbgov.com

Marc Davis
(757) 385-4308
maadavis@vbgov.com

Skip the Traffic!
City Offers Free Parking and Shuttles to Air Show
June 2 and 3

Huge crowds are expected at the resort all weekend, June 2 and 3, during the Patriotic Festival Air Show.  Skip the traffic!  Park off-site and take the shuttle bus - for free.

The city will offer shuttles before, during and after the air shows on Saturday and Sunday. Free parking will be available at:

• Camp Pendleton.  Enter from General Booth Boulevard and Birdneck Road.  Handicapped parking is available.
• Naval Air Station Oceana, Fleet Park. Enter from the main gate at Oceana Boulevard and Tomcat Boulevard. Handicapped parking is NOT available.

See attached map for parking lot locations and directions.

 Lots will be open to vehicles from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

Entry to both lots will close at 3 p.m.!

Shuttles buses will run 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

(To accommodate air show visitors staying for concerts, a small shuttle operation will continue until 11 p.m. Saturday, and 9 p.m. Sunday.)

After 7 p.m., all passengers to Oceana AND Camp Pendleton will be picked up at 9^th Street. The shuttles will NOT run Friday, June 1.  

Buses will travel on dedicated lanes on General Booth Boulevard for speedy turnarounds.  Drop-off zones at the resort will be between 9^th Street and 14^th Street. The shuttles are city school buses with no air conditioning. Carry-on items are limited to small soft-side coolers, folding beach chairs and baby strollers.  

Air shows will be Friday, Saturday and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.

Concerts will be 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 5 p.m. Sunday. 

For more information on the free parking and shuttles, visit www.VBgov.com/patrioticfest.

For more information on the Patriotic Festival, the air show and concerts, visit http://www.patrioticfestival.com/.    

# # #

Hilltop Strategic Growth Area Vision Drafted
City Invites Input on Phase Three - Deciding the Future

On Tuesday, May 22, at 6:30 p.m. the public is invited to the Linkhorn Park Elementary School cafeteria, 977 First Colonial Road, for the third and final phase of the Hilltop Strategic Growth Area (SGA) planning process.  This phase, Deciding the Future, presents the initial draft, preferred development alternatives and the long-range vision for the Hilltop SGA.   Please join us for this important occasion.  Weigh in on development alternatives, offer input and ideas, and help create a plan that contributes to the community's lasting value.

The city's Comprehensive Plan designates eight SGAs to accommodate and absorb the city's future urban-type growth.  Beginning in January, the city held the first round of public meetings for input on the Hilltop SGA plan.  During these meetings, civic leaders, business owners, property owners, residents and student leaders identified positive features of the Hilltop SGA and clarified what should be improved in the future.  This resulted in a set of community-derived design principles for the SGA.  Based on those principles, a week-long design workshop was held in mid-March to sketch initial future concepts for the SGA and to obtain more specific public input.  The result is a proposed new vision for the Hilltop SGA. 

For information on the Hilltop SGA Master Plan, contact Debbie Zywna in the Planning Department at 385-4621 or visit www.VBgov.com/hilltopplan.

# # #

News Release:  VBgov.com/Info

Share the LOVE and Win the Chance to Be One in a Million


New Virginia vacation sweepstakes to award 55 prizes in May including a once-in-a-lifetime family vacation

Our team is ready to work with you to bring your multicultural meetings, conferences, conventions and tradeshows to Virginia Beach.

For information, contact Dawn Whittaker at dwhittak@vbgov.com.

Check out this video from the 2012 FORUM!

Contact:
Nicole Jomantas
719.761.7909
N.Jomantas@usfencing.org

FENCING: U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams to be Named in Virginia Beach on Sunday

(Colorado Springs, Colo.) - Ten international tournaments and three domestic events later, the Olympic qualifying process will come to an end on Sunday, April 15 when the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team for Fencing is named at the Division I National Championships at the Virginia Beach Convention Center in Virginia Beach.

The Division I Nationals is the final qualifying tournament for the U.S. Olympic Team and the last of 13 events in which athletes have earned national ranking points towards team qualification.

The U.S. Men's and Women's Foil, Women's Epee and Men's Saber Teams will be decided in Virginia Beach while athletes who will represent Team USA in men's epee and women's saber were selected in March by the Federation Internationale D'Escrime based on international rankings.

All events are free and open to the public. Media are encouraged to attend the finals on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. after which the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Team will be named.

The competition schedule for Olympic qualifying events this weekend is as follows:

Saturday, April 14
7 a.m.
Women's Epee Check-In

8:30 a.m. (Approximate)
Women's Epee Preliminary Competition Begins

9:00 a.m.
Men's Foil Check-In

10:30 a.m.
Men's Foil Preliminary Competition Begins

3:30 p.m.
Women's Epee Gold Medal Finals

4:25 p.m.
Men's Foil Gold Medal Finals

Sunday, April 15
8:30 a.m.
Men's Saber Check-In

10 a.m.
Men's Saber Preliminary Competition Begins

8 a.m.
Women's Foil Check In

9:30 a.m.
Women's Foil Preliminary Competition Begins

3:30 p.m.
Men's Saber Gold Medal Finals

4 p.m.
Women's Foil Gold Medal Finals

4:30 p.m. (Approximate)
Team USA Announcement (Finals strip immediately after Women's Foil Gold Medal Finals)

4:45 p.m. 
Autographs/Photo Opportunities with Team USA
Media Interviews
Division I Women's Foil Awards Ceremony

Competition in non-Olympic qualifying events also will be held from Friday through Sunday. For a complete schedule, visit http://www.usfencing.org/.

The top three athletes in the USA Fencing National Point Standings at the conclusion of the Division I National Championships in men's and women's foil, men's saber and women's epee will be named to the U.S. Olympic Team. The fourth athlete will be named as the replacement athlete.

Top-five rankings for these weapons going into the event are as follows:

Women's Foil
1. Lee Kiefer (Lexington, Ky.)
2. Nzingha Prescod (Brooklyn, N.Y.)
3. Doris Willette (Lafayette, Calif.)
4. Nicole Ross (New York City, N.Y.)
5. Emily Cross (New York City, N.Y.)

Men's Foil
1. Alexander Massialas (San Francisco, Calif.)
2. Race Imboden (Brooklyn, N.Y.)
3. Miles Chamley-Watson (Philadelphia, Pa.)
4. Gerek Meinhardt (San Francisco, Calif.)
5. David Willette (Lafayette, Calif.)

Women's Epee
1. Courtney Hurley (San Antonio, Texas)
2. Maya Lawrence (Teaneck, N.J.)
3. Susie Scanlan (St. Paul, Minn.)
4. Kelley Hurley (San Antonio, Texas)
5. Francesca Bassa (Houston, Texas)

NOTE: Seventh-ranked Lindsay Campbell (Brooklyn, N.Y.) also is mathematically eligible to earn the fourth position.

Men's Saber
1. Daryl Homer (New York City, N.Y.)
2. Tim Morehouse (New York City, N.Y.)
3. James Williams (New York City, N.Y.)
4. Jeff Spear (Wyantskill, N.Y.)
5. Ben Igoe (Staten Island, N.Y.)

The Team USA Coaching Staff and Team Leader also will be announced on Sunday.

The following athletes qualified for the U.S. Olympic Team in March; however, they will be competing at the World Team Championships in Kiev, Ukraine this weekend and will not be in attendance:

Women's Saber
Mariel Zagunis (Beaverton, Ore.)
Dagmara Wozniak (Avenel, N.J.)

Men's Epee
Soren Thompson (New York City, N.Y.)
Seth Kelsey (Colorado Springs, Colo.)

The first five positions on the U.S. Paralympic Team were finalized in August at the 2011 Wheelchair Pan American Championships. The following athletes will be recognized in Virginia Beach for the positions on Team USA:

• Catherine Bouwkamp (Fishers, Ind.)
• Ryan Estep (Florence, Miss.)
• Gerard Moreno (Los Angeles, Calif.)
• Gary Van Der Wege (Kyle, Texas)
• Mario Rodriguez (Port Hueneme, Calif.)

Additional slots for the U.S. Paralympic Team may be allocated by IWAS; however, those allocations have not been completed at this time.

For more information, or to arrange interviews, please contact Nicole Jomantas, USA Fencing Communications Manager, at 719.761.7909 or N.Jomantas@usfencing.org.

-END-

For Immediate Release

J&A RACING ANNOUNCES RENEWED SPONSORSHIP FOR YUENGLING SHAMROCK MARATHON WEEKEND

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA - April 9, 2012 - J&A Racing is pleased to announce that D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc. has renewed for three more years its title sponsorship for the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend.  The three day event, which features a two-day Sports & Fitness Expo and five separate races, takes place in Virginia Beach, Virginia, in March - always close to St. Patrick's Day.  Shamrock celebrated its 40^th year in 2012, with registrations topping 27,000.

"We are thrilled to have Yuengling continue as our title sponsor" said co-race director, Jerry Frostick.  "Our synergistic relationship gets stronger every year, and we could not ask for a more giving or supportive partner!" 

Added Yuengling Division Manager, Pat Pikunis, "D.G. Yuengling and Son is proud to continue our association with J&A Racing as the title sponsor for the Shamrock Marathon Weekend.  As America's oldest brewery, we enjoy being part of such a fun series of events that promote health and wellness, as well as creating incredibly fun memories for all who participate.  We look forward to many more years of fun at the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend!"

The 2013 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend will take place March 15-17.     

About J&A Racing:
The owners of J&A Racing, Amy and Jerry Frostick, began their careers as race directors in 2003 when they took over the Shamrock Sportsfest.  Under their guidance, the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend has grown from 3,000 participants to a record 27,000 in 2012, making it one of the most popular race events in the country.  Since 2003, the Frosticks' portfolio of fun, festive, and family-oriented events has expanded to include the Halloween themed Blue Moon Wicked 10k and Old Point National Bank Monster Mile, the Valentine's Day themed Virginia is For Lovers 14k, 6k & 1k, the Christmas themed Samuel Adams Surf-n-Santa 10 Miler and Frosty's 5K, and the newest event, the Peroni Crawlin' Crab Half Marathon & 5k.

For information on all of the J&A Racing events, please visit http://www.jandaracing.com/.

About D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc:
Based in Pottsville, PA, D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., America's oldest brewery, is family owned and operated since 1829.  Principal beer brands include Traditional Lager, Light Lager, Premium, Light, Black and Tan, Dark Brewed Porter, and Lord Chesterfield Ale.  Visit us on the web at http://www.yuengling.com/.

Angela Barber
NFBPA - Media Relations (Local)
(757) 382-8040
Abarber@cityofchesapeake.net

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATIONAL FORUM FOR BLACK PUBLIC ADMINISTRATORS TO
HOLD ITS 29^th ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN VIRGINIA BEACH IN APRIL

Nation's largest organization of African American public administrators holds its annual forum, including numerous workshops, in an effort to "reposition communities for the future"

[Wednesday, April 4, 2012], WASHINGTON, DC - The nation's largest group of African American public administrators plans to hold its annual conference, FORUM 2012, this April in Virginia Beach.  The National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) will offer an array of educational workshops and offer public officials and executives the tools they need to tackle public issues and transform cities and regions.

This year's conference, themed "Waves of Change, Oceans of Opportunity … Repositioning Our Communities for the Future," will honor the organization's heritage as a thriving organization that now supports more than 40 local chapters in 350 jurisdictions and 37 states, and has a membership of 3,000 public servants. Its membership collectively manages more than $60 billion annually in public sector spending, making the organization among the most influential and powerful in the nation.

The conference will be held April 21-24 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

"Virginia Beach is the ideal city to host our conference," said Aretha R. Ferrell-Benavides, president of the NFBPA board of directors. "In these trying, post-recession times, as the nation is buffeted by waves of change, we must adapt to a 'new normal' in the delivery of public services. To meet these challenges, we must take advantage of every opportunity to use the resources at hand wisely and more efficiently than ever. That's a major reason for calling this conference -- to help build and refine professional skills, spread best practices and enhance our ability to meet current and new challenges."

The four-day conference features a range of plenary sessions, interactive workshops, panel discussions and seminars, networking events and tours - all designed to prepare black administrators for tomorrow's governance, commerce and nonprofit sector.

The goal of the conference offerings is to help participants understand key public issues and provide innovative solutions via case studies presented in more than 40 workshops and seminars.

Among the featured speakers are Melissa Harris-Perry, an award-winning author and the nation's only tenured professor to host a cable news show ("Melissa Harris-Perry," which airs on MSNBC).  Professor Perry teaches political science at Tulane University. The keynote speaker at the opening plenary on Monday, April 23, will be Vernice "FlyGirl" Armour, the first African-American female combat pilot. The former U.S. Marine Corps pilot served two tours in Iraq and now runs her own consulting firm.

The workshops are organized along five tracks: "FORUM University," a roster of workshops for starting, building or changing careers; "Engaging Your Community - the New Normal"; "Riding the Waves to Financial Stability"; "Repositioning Yourself -- Preparing for the Next Level"; and "Greening Your Bottom Line."

Track one, "FORUM University," will focus on building dynamic leadership,  and learning how to adapt to ever-changing, diverse public interests as a "new normal" emerges.

Among key workshops are "From Dream to Reality, Becoming a Powerful Leader: How to Effectively Manage Tigers and Sharks in the Workplace," "The Ethics Court," "Strategies and Initiatives for Diversity Management: How Leaders Can Make a Difference," "Retooling Community-Based Nonprofit Organizations for Financial Stability," "What Mentoring Programs Can Do for You," and "What Is Really Going on with Emerging Technologies?"

On Saturday, April 21, the public is invited to attend a free public policy forum town hall meeting entitled "The Balanced-Budget Debate: Past Sins, Present Sacrifices and Future Standards," from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Virginia Beach Convention Center (1BCD). William E. Harrell, former City Manager of Chesapeake, will serve as moderator.   Featured will be Robert "Bobby" Scott of Virginia's 3rd District.

NFBPA, founded in 1983 and headquartered in Washington, DC, is America's leading association of black appointed and elected managers and executives serving public organizations throughout the U.S.  Its mission is to strengthen the position of black people within the field of public administration; increase the number of black people appointed to executive positions in public service organizations; and groom younger, aspiring administrators for senior public management posts.

This year's conference sponsor is Cigna HealthCare.  Other major sponsors include Nationwide Retirement Solutions, ICMA Retirement Corporation, CDM Smith, MWH, Waste Management, LLP, and CH2M Hill.    

Through the generosity of the organization's corporate partners, merit scholarships are awarded to deserving students and each year NFBPA is able to help 50 students attend the annual conference. 

For more information about FORUM 2012, visit the organization's Web site, nfbpa.org, or call 202-408-9300.  

#  #  #

MEDIA CONTACT:
Mary Hancock, (757) 385-4436

Statement from Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr.  April 6, 2012 Jet Crash

Just three days ago, a Navy jet crashed into the Mayfair Mews apartments near the Oceanfront.  Miraculously, no one perished in the accident.  I want to recognize the community in that area for pulling together to help our first responders - the firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel and members of the military - in the moments following the crash.  All came together, proactively and without hesitation, in the face of great danger.  I witnessed citizens working alongside firefighters to move water hoses; help with traffic management; assist in getting residents out of the buildings; providing names of people who first were missing, then found during the event; and relaying eyewitness accounts of the incident.  This is truly the very best of Virginia Beach - neighbors helping neighbors, working together in a time of great need.  I have never been prouder to serve the citizens of our great city.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Patricia A. Phillips,  (757) 385-4681
pphillip@vbgov.com

Marc Davis, (757) 385-4308
maadavis@vbgov.com

For Third Straight Year, Virginia Beach Earns AAA Bond Ratings
Bond Sale Saves Taxpayers $3.1 Million over 14 Years

Wall Street has re-affirmed Virginia Beach's standing as the best-managed city in Hampton Roads.  All three major ratings agencies once again have awarded Virginia Beach the highest possible bond rating of Triple-A.

This is the third straight year Virginia Beach has earned this distinction.  It is the only city in Hampton Roads with Triple-A bond ratings from all three agencies - Fitch, Moody's and Standard & Poor's.

As a result, the city on Wednesday, April 4, raised $65 million by selling general obligation bonds for municipal projects at an extremely low interest rate of just 2.85 percent. This is the lowest interest rate the city has ever received on a large new money general obligation bond issue, beating the 2010 rate of 2.97 percent, which was an all-time low at that time.

The city also refinanced $19.6 million general obligation public improvement bonds, generating a debt service savings of $3.1 million over 14 years. The interest rate on these bonds was 2.41percent.

"We are extremely proud that Wall Street again recognized Virginia Beach as a fiscally strong city with superior financial management practices," City Finance Director Patricia A. Phillips said. "Our citizens will reap the benefits of lower costs for major construction projects."

Bidding for Virginia Beach's bonds was extremely competitive. Seven bids were received. The winning bidder was JP Morgan Securities with an overall interest rate of 2.74 percent for both series of bonds.  The second-place bid was from Piper Jaffray, with a true interest cost of 2.78 percent.  Ben Asher of Public Resources Advisory Group, the city's financial advisor, noted that this narrow difference between the first- and second- place bids indicates strong demand for the city's bonds.  The high savings level for the refunding are a result of the city's highest possible credit ratings, as well as positive conditions in the broader municipal bond market, including very low interest rates and moderate supply.

All three ratings agencies praised Virginia Beach's conservative fiscal management.

• Fitch praised Virginia Beach's "superior financial management" and "prudent debt management," resulting in "moderately low and stable debt levels." The agency said Virginia Beach's economy "continues to diversify and has remained relatively stable during the current economic downturn."

Fitch also favorably noted the possibility of light rail. "A proposed light rail system is under consideration, which Fitch believes could spur transit-oriented development," Fitch wrote.

• Standard & Poor's praised Virginia Beach's "strong local economy," its "comprehensive economic development strategy," its "professional and seasoned management team" and its "low-to-moderate debt." The agency noted that the Virginia Beach Convention Center "has exceeded projections in all areas."

"Virginia Beach's finances remain what we consider strong, benefiting from, in our view, strong reserves, good liquidity and active financial management," Standard & Poor's wrote.

• Moody's praised Virginia Beach's "large and diverse tax base stabilized by the presence of military bases," along with the city's "strong and carefully managed financial position" and "comprehensive financial policies and conservative budgeting approach."

"Virginia Beach's debt burden will remain affordable, even with its relatively large capital plan, due to the city's active debt management policies," Moody's wrote.

The bonds sold last week will finance roads, buildings, landfill expansion and schools, including the new Kellam High School, currently under construction.

To read the ratings reports from all three Wall Street agencies, visit http://www.vbgov.com.finance/.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT:
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-646
ttwine@VisitVirginiaBeach.com

Virginia Beach Tourism Experienced Record 2012

The Virginia Beach Tourism Industry experienced a record 2011 for overall lodging sales. The Convention and Visitors Bureau received statistics from the Commissioner of the Revenue that revealed significant increases in lodging sales and related tax revenue in 2011 for the hospitality industry.

"The tourism industry has had "back to back" record years," stated James B. Ricketts, Director, Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. "We credit this success to product development and aggressive market segment diversification."

Visitor spending on overnight accommodations (includes hotels, cottages, campgrounds and timeshare/condo rentals) is the best indicator of the overall health of the City's tourism industry. Statistics demonstrate that lodging sales, including Sandbridge lodging and campgrounds sales and related tax revenue were at an all-time high.

The 2011 statistics outline that total city-wide sales were over $279 million; this is a 1.7% increase over 2010.

In addition, city-wide restaurant sales, retail sales and amusements revenue were all up. Participatory sports were down somewhat. Restaurant sales were up city-wide to over $946 million; a 4% increase. Retail sales were up to over $5.2 billion; a 2.5% increase. Amusement sales were up to over $45 million; a 1.9% increase. Participatory sports sales were down to $15.9 million; a 6.2% decrease.

As previously reported, the 2011 Summer Overnight Profile of Virginia Beach revealed: average household income was up to $92,982; length of stay was 4.4 days; average party size was 4; average spending per party was up to $1,969; 91.4% plan to return; and over 27% were first time visitors.

VIRGINIA BEACH

And they thought last year was the big time.

This summer's 50th East Coast Surfing Championships already makes last year's event pale in comparison.

Officials announced Tuesday that the Association of Surfing Professionals was increasing the ECSC's rating from four stars to six - giving the event a status that comes with more money, points and prestige.

There are 10 ASP six-star competitions, and the ECSC is the only one being held in the United States.

Only four surfing events in the country are bigger - two ASP Prime and two World Tour competitions. All four take place in California and are elite pro events above the six-star level.

The ECSC professional men's purse will nearly double from last year's to $155,000. And when several more professional divisions are factored in, the ECSC purse will total more than $210,000.

Toss in the potential for a one-hour spot on NBC Sports, and it's easy to see why this year's ECSC should attract major-league surfing star power to Virginia Beach Aug. 20-26.

"We'll see names the likes of which we've never seen around here before," competition director Paul West said. "We've had some big names come through here from time to time, but not like we're going to have this year."

West said the ECSC is sandwiched between two other ASP six-star events - one in France the week prior and another in Northern Spain - so there won't be any conflict for upper-tier surfers.

The Virginia Beach event in recent years has been renamed the Coastal Edge East Coast Surfing Championships presented by Vans.

"Quite a few already have signed up for the ECSC event," West said. "They'll compete in France, fly here to compete, then take off for the next event. "This is a huge deal."

Coastal Edge owner Dee-pak Nachnani said he has been working since late last year with Van's global marketing director Doug Palladini on ways to celebrate the ECSC's golden anniversary.

"We were talking about how important an event it already is and wanted to elevate it for this occasion." Nachnani said.

"So we sat down with Doug and he made this happen. We couldn't be happier."

ECSC officials also confirmed that Virginia-based production company Focus Digital Media Group is in negotiations with NBC Sports to produce a special on the event.

"An hour show on NBC Sports would be fantastic for Virginia Beach, for Virginia and for the East Coast Surfing Championships," Nachnani said

Even before the ASP announcement was made, ECSC planners were working to make the event bigger and better.

The action sports portion of the weeklong beach party will include skateboarding, BMX biking and motocross-type action. There also is volleyball, skimboarding and an array of other beach-related sporting events.

"We've doubled the square-footage area for the action sports," Nachnani said. "That aspect is a big part of our vision for the ECSC and it's been well-received to this point. And we're doing it while preserving the heritage of the event, which is surfing."

There is one aspect of the ECSC that officials do not want to change from the past few years - the waves.

While last year's beach party suffered from Hurricane Irene, the swell at times was world-class - a trend the last handful of years.

"We've been blessed with good surf the last five or six years," West said. "Now, with the six-star surfers and TV coming, if we can just get one more year of good surf it will be a great way to cap off the 50th year."

Grant Hummer, the Virginia Beach Jaycees' ECSC chairman, said he is amazed at how things are coming together - especially after the scare the event got last year.

After a week of erecting the beach set-up, organizers were forced to tear it all down in less than a day because of Irene.

"I know the surfers were stoked, but it was a real scare for us," Hummer said. "We were really worried about losing people and losing sponsors for this year. We would have been blessed for it to have been a four-star event again. But all of this ... six star and maybe TV ... it's almost surreal.

"It's just amazing all of the things that are happening right now. This is what a 50th deserves."

Virginia Beach Celebrates the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 with the Patriotic Festival and OpSail 2012 Virginia™

The Patriotic Festival, a Top 100 Event by the American Bus Association, and OpSail 2012 Offer the Blue Angels Air Show, National Recording Artists, Military Displays and more

(Virginia Beach, Va., March 27, 2012) - Pay tribute to the United States Navy and the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 from the shores of one of America's classic family destinations  - Virginia Beach - during the 2012 Virginia Beach Patriotic Festival and OpSail 2012 Virginia™. Designated one of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2012 by the American Bus Association (ABA), the Virginia Beach Patriotic Festival, scheduled for June 1 - 3, 2012, will kick off the regional OpSail celebration slated June 1 - 12. Signature events include several oceanfront air shows by the Blue Angels and concerts by country star Miranda Lambert, 2011 American Idol winner Scott McCreery and reggae favorite, Steel Pulse.

OpSail 2012 Virginia™ is part of a national maritime event celebrating the Bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the writing of the Star Spangled Banner. This year's Patriotic Festival will offer for the first time an oceanfront air show, headlined by the Blue Angels Squadron including the Blue Angel C-130 "Fat Albert." This is the only stop on the six-city tour where the Blue Angels will perform over the open ocean.

In addition to the air show and concerts, the Patriotic Festival will include military displays and demonstrations, historical re-enactments, food and beverage vendors and nonstop musical entertainment. As part of OpSail, Virginia Beach offers prime viewing and access spots for a number of military air and amphibious support performances, the Sea and Air Parade of Sail and ship tours. The international fleet of tall ships will be anchored off Virginia Beach's Cape Henry on June 7, 2012, prior to launching their Parade of Sail towards downtown Norfolk on June 8.

More than 150,000 people are expected along the Virginia Beach waterfront for the Patriotic Festival and OpSail celebration. Admission to the Patriotic Festival is free, although VIP tickets can be purchased for concerts as well as the air show. Visit www.patrioticfestival.com for more details. Opsail 2012 Virginia™ will have events taking place throughout Coastal Virginia. For a complete list of events visit www.OpSail2012Virginia.com.

American Bus Association's Top 100 Events

Inclusion in the ABA's Top 100 list, published as a supplement to the September/October 2011 issue of Destinations magazine, indicates the Patriotic Festival offers excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world, according to ABA. With the release of the ABA's 2012 Top 100 Events in North America, they celebrate 30 years of the program. What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries, has grown to one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.

ABA's 2012 Top 100 Events Selection Committee selected the Virginia Beach Patriotic Festival from hundreds of event nominations submitted by ABA members. Judges considered the event's broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups, as well as a variety of other relevant criteria. The Top 100 Events list is available online at www.buses.org/News-Publications/Top-100.

For more information on Virginia Beach events, visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com. For media information or images, visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com/pressroom.

Virginia Beach entices visitors to "Live the Life" year-round! Located in the southeastern corner of the state, Virginia Beach is four hours southeast of D.C. by car and within a day's drive or less from two-thirds of the U.S. population. For visitor information, call 1-800-VA-BEACH (800/822-3224) or visit www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com for online trip planning. For media information and digital images, click on www.VisitVirginiaBeach.com/pressroom. Please follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/vabeachcvb and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/VirginiaBeachVA.

The American Architectural Foundation (AAF) presented its annual Accent on Architecture awards gala in Washington, D.C., on Friday, March 9. The event, hosted by foundation president and CEO Ronald Bogle and board of regents chair Sandy Diehl, brought nearly 400 people to a dinner at The Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium-a Neoclassical building on the National Mall designed by San Francisco architect Arthur Brown Jr. and completed in 1931. Throughout the evening, people and organizations that promote the virtues of design in urban planning and business ventures were honored for their contributions.

The first accolade of the night went to Philadelphia's Mayor Michael A. Nutter, who received the Joseph P. Riley Jr. Award for his leadership in urban design. The prize was presented by the United States Conference of Mayors executive director Tom Cochran and the award's namesake, Joseph P. Riley Jr., the 10-term mayor of Charleston, South Carolina.

Architectural Record, a media sponsor of the event, took the stage next to present the first Lifetime Achievement Awards in the 15-year history of its Good Design Is Good Business (GDGB) program, which celebrates design work that positively affects a company's bottom line. Awards were given in two categories: architecture and design patron.

Cathleen McGuigan, Architectural Record's editor in chief, presented the architecture award to Skidmore, Owing & Merrill, introducing the firm with a slide show of its five projects that have won GDGB Awards in prior years (HRO Group's Arcs de Seine, Paris, 2002; Virginia Beach Convention Center, Virginia, 2006; U.S. Census Bureau Headquarters, Maryland, 2007; Poly Real Estate Group Towers, Guangzhou, China, 2008; and The Ledge, Chicago, 2011). Managing partner T.J. Gottesdiener, FAIA, accepted the award on the firm's behalf, but encouraged all current SOM employees in attendance to stand and be recognized. He then asked all firm alums to rise, which he quipped could bring most of the room to its feet.

McGuigan went on to give the Lifetime Achievement Patron Award to contract furnishings manufacturer Haworth. She called out the company's Perkins+Will-designed headquarters in Holland, Michigan, a 2009 GDGB winner, as a model collaboration between client and architect to create a space tailored to Haworth's business needs and goals. Mabel Casey, the company's vice president of global marketing, accepted the award and praised the headquarters design based on her personal experience.

For the final recognition of the evening, the AAF presented its Keystone Award. This year, the award went to Richard Fedrizzi, the U.S. Green Building Council's founding chairman and current president and CEO. AAF's Diehl commended Fedrizzi for being instrumental in the development of the LEED rating system and inventing a "common language" to discuss sustainable building. Bob Fox of Cook + Fox, a firm known for its ecologically attuned projects, introduced Fedrizzi, who in turn spoke with typical fervor about the relationship between architecture and sustainability.

Founded in 1943 and based in Washington, D.C., the AAF aims to foster design literacy and advocate for architecture in both the public and private spheres. Its programs range from grants and fellowships to events such as the Mayors' Institute on City Design. Friday's gala marked the 23rd edition of its Accent on Architecture Awards.

Click here to view.

Virginia Beach Visitor Center Earns EPA's ENERGY STAR^® Certification for Superior Energy Efficiency 

(Virginia Beach, VA)  The Virginia Beach Visitor Information Center (VIC) owned by the city of Virginia Beach has earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) ENERGY STAR certification, signifying that the Center performs in the top 25 percent of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency and meets strict energy efficiency performance levels set by the EPA.

With more than 50,000 visitors annually, the Visitor Information Center is often the first stop guests make as they enter the resort area, and is an important component of the Convention & Visitors Bureau's efforts to make Virginia Beach a "Green Destination." 

"The Virginia Beach Visitor Information Center is pleased to accept EPA's ENERGY STAR certification in recognition of commendable energy efficiency efforts," said Mayor William D. Sessoms, Jr. "This achievement demonstrates the city's commitment to environmental stewardship while also lowering our energy costs."

Commercial buildings that earn EPA's ENERGY STAR certification use an average of 35 percent less energy than typical buildings and also release 35 percent less carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.  The Virginia Beach Visitor Information Center turned to the Energy Star program in the fall of 2008, after entering data into their rating system, the Center received a baseline rating of 28. With the hard work from of City of Virginia Beach's Public Works department and by following the Energy Star program and the building's Energy Star score almost tripled in December 2011.

"Improving the energy efficiency of our nation's buildings is critical to protecting our environment, " said Jean Lupinacci, Chief of the ENERGY STAR Commercial & Industrial Branch. "From the boiler room to the board room, organizations are leading the way by making their buildings more efficient and earning EPA's ENERGY STAR certification."

To earn the ENERGY STAR, The Virginia Beach Visitor Information Center took the following actions:

• Replaced the heating and air conditioning system
• Upgraded exterior parking lot fixtures and wall fixtures with energy efficient Light Emitting Diode (LED) technology
• Improved Interior lighting, included T-8 CFLs and LED fixtures as well as motion activated sensors that shut off lights during inactivity
• Installed programmable thermostats with the new HVAC units allowing temperature setbacks during unoccupied periods
• Installed timers on water heaters - so water is only heated when the building is occupied
• Installed switches for the conference room promotional light boxes allowing them to be turned off when the building is unoccupied
• Eliminated a vending machine
• Disconnected unnecessary electric strip heaters

As a result of these initiatives, energy usage has dropped 38% and annual savings are predicted to be $7,247, based on the average price per kilowatt. 

EPA's ENERGY STAR energy performance scale helps organizations assess how efficiently their buildings use energy relative to similar buildings nationwide. Commercial buildings that can earn the ENERGY STAR include offices, bank branches, data centers, financial centers, retail stores, courthouses, hospitals, hotels, K-12 schools, medical offices, supermarkets, dormitories, houses of worship, and warehouses.

ENERGY STAR was introduced by EPA in 1992 as a voluntary, market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency. Today, the ENERGY STAR label can be found on more than 60 different kinds of products as well as new homes and commercial and industrial buildings that meet strict energy-efficiency specifications set by the EPA. Last year alone, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved $18 billion on their energy bills while reducing the greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those of 34 million vehicles.

For more information about ENERGY STAR Certification for Commercial Buildings:  www.energystar.gov/labeledbuildings 

For more information about the Virginia Beach Visitor Information Center: 

www.visitvirginiabeach.com

### 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                    

Thursday, January 18, 2012

MEDIA CONTACT:

Tiffany Twine

(757) 385-6646

Lori Herrick

(757) 385-5663

Al Hutchinson, vice president of convention sales for the Virginia Beach CVB, speaks about the 2013 BankTravel Conference, experiential tours and military offerings in Virginia Beach.

CLICK HERE to view the Video!

Virginia Beach Tourism Experienced Record 2011

  The Virginia Beach Tourism Industry experienced a record 2011 for overall lodging sales. The Convention and Visitors Bureau received statistics from the Commissioner of the Revenue that revealed significant increases in lodging sales and related tax revenue in 2011 for the hospitality industry.

"The tourism industry has had "back to back" record years," stated James B. Ricketts, Director, Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. "We credit this success to product development and aggressive market segment diversification."

Visitor spending on overnight accommodations (includes hotels, cottages, campgrounds and timeshare/condo rentals) is the best indicator of the overall health of the City's tourism industry. Statistics demonstrate that lodging sales, including Sandbridge lodging and campgrounds sales and related tax revenue were at an all-time high.

The 2011 statistics outline that total city-wide sales were over $279 million; this is a 1.7% increase over 2010.

In addition, city-wide restaurant sales, retail sales and amusements revenue were all up. Participatory sports were down somewhat. Restaurant sales were up city-wide to over $946 million; a 4% increase. Retail sales were up to over $5.2 billion; a 2.5% increase. Amusement sales were up to over $45 million; a 1.9% increase. Participatory sports sales were down to $15.9 million; a 6.2% decrease.

As previously reported, the 2011 Summer Overnight Profile of Virginia Beach revealed: average household income was up to $92,982; length of stay was 4.4 days; average party size was 4; average spending per party was up to $1,969; 91.4% plan to return; and over 27% were first time visitors.

###

MEDIA CONTACT:

Tiffany Twine

 (757) 385-6646

ttwine@VisitVirginiaBeach.com

GREAT AMERICAN CLEANUP!

Saturday, April 28, 2012
9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Sign up by March 30th to volunteer:
www.askhrgreen.org

Cleanup locations:
Norfolk Southern Right-Of-Way
Plaza-Northgate Park
Princess Anne Commons

The Woodlands (Houston), Texas, February 2012… Benchmark Hospitality International, a leading US-based hospitality management company, which operates 35 award-winning hotels, resorts, and conference centers coast to coast and off shore, announces its "Top Ten Meeting Trends for 2012" as observed by its properties.

Trend #1        Luxury is Back!  Cautiously back.  Luxury resorts are no longer a pariah, but corporate accountants learned a thing or two over the past couple of years and their memory is long.  They are watching the meeting budget as closely as if it were 2008!  

Trend #2        At Last, meeting demand is growing and is the strongest it's been since 2008. And the trend is up!  This is so across all industry segments, from telecommunications, education and insurance to healthcare, energy and beyond.  Booking pace remains short-term, but the "meeting sale" is over.  To quote the great Etta James, At last!

Trend #3        Meeting Size is Trending Up and Space is at a Premium. As the business climate continues to strengthen, for the first time in a long time, hotels and resorts are being more selective with the bookings they take, electing to fill their properties with larger meetings at a higher rate.  Customers are finding the "no vacancy" sign posted once again for preferred space booked short term, and the flexibility of many hotels and resorts is waning with the strengthening of demand.  No longer can planners expect to book a meeting 30 days out and receive premium space at bargain prices.

Trend #4        21st Century Meeting Space is Different! Meeting space isn't what it used to be.  It's more creative!  Today's planners are looking for properties with outsized meeting rooms out of doors, inspirational and non-traditional nooks & crannies for small gatherings and breakouts inside, and are requesting oversized chairs and meeting accessories as an occasional alternative to ergonomics.  Meetings today are just as apt to conclude around the camp fire, fire pit or bonfire, as they are at the bar! 

Trend #5        Meetings Technology has Leapt into the 21st Century! Apps downloaded on Smart phones and iPads, easily accessible mobile sites, and meeting-dedicated Facebook pages are assisting planners and conferees with the registration process, enabling quick access to event itineraries, and offering an easier method to gather feedback from participants post event.  iPads have provided new meaning to the word "tablet" for note-taking during meetings and are even interfacing with traditional technology like LCD projectors.  Meeting technology today is so much more than just connectivity. 

Trend #6        The Meeting Package is Coming Backstrong! Although the past few years saw a slide in demand and an unbundling of the meeting package, in 2012 planners are once again embracing the product for the value it offers the meeting budget.  Instead of unbundling, planners today are more apt to request customization of the meeting package. 

Trend #7        Slowly and Carefully Meeting Pricing is Trending Up.  After so many years and now with an improving economy, planners are expecting and seem prepared to see price increases in 2012.  They are still looking for the best value, but pricing push-back is on the wane. 

Trend #8        Teambuilding Budgets are Continuing their Comeback, with groups looking for unique half-day options onsite and offsite, and this is influencing site selections.  Properties that come equipped with creative, built-in teambuilding opportunities such as volleyball on the beach, kitchens designed for cooking classes, mixology programs, and even golf courses on which conferees can test their mettle as a group, are winning meetings business. 

Trend #9        We've Seen this Before, We're Seeing it Again. As the economy strengthens, corporate America is once more renewing its focus on ensuring it has the best trained sales and management teams possible, and so is ramping up training budgets.  In an increasingly complex and competitive global economy, companies can't afford to be anything but the best-informed and skilled in their industry.  They've seen the impact of losing focus, and so there is money for training once again.  This time around, training is more intense and meetings tend to be longer that previously.  Corporate America's competitive spirit is back, and they're dead serious! 

Trend #10      Increasingly the Meeting Destination is as Important as the Meeting Venue. Time invested in a meeting is more valuable than ever before, and the need to counter-balance this with destination experiences is taking on new meaning.  While exotic locales are thrilling to experience, that's not what we're talking about here.  It's about affordable destinations, perhaps closer to "home," offering great value and a relaxed atmosphere, where business can "get done" and recreation can offer new opportunities for learning in a more relaxed setting.  Whether for corporations, associations or incentive groups, destination meetings are increasingly taking center stage.

One More Trend … Socially Responsible Meetingsand the need to give back remain strong in corporate America.  From initiatives like Clean the World to an afternoon supporting Habitat for Humanity or a local Soup Kitchen, investing in the community is as important for planners and conferees as it is for the hotel or resort serving as the meeting venue.  Socially responsible meetings are no longer just about helping clean up the environment, they're about helping corporate teams learn ways to more actively integrate into their local community and help develop and strengthen its social fabric.

About Benchmark Hospitality International
Benchmark Hospitality International is a leader in the management and marketing of resorts, conference centers, hotels, and Personal Luxury Resorts & Hotels^SM.  The independent company, launched in 1980, is a worldwide organization operating properties in major metropolitan and resort destinations.  Benchmark's international headquarters is located in The Woodlands, Texas, near Houston. Benchmark Hospitality is also a founding member of the International Association of Conference Centers.  The company's eastern regional office is in New Jersey, western regional office is in Washington, with international offices in Tokyo, Japan, and Santiago, Chile. For the location of Benchmark's properties and additional information, visit www.benchmarkhospitality.com.

NEWTON, Mass., Feb. 21, 2012 -- TripAdvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP), the world's largest travel site*, today announced the results of the annual TripAdvisor Industry Index - one of the world's largest hotel business surveys, incorporating responses from more than 9,000 accommodation owners and managers worldwide, of which 1276 were from the U.S. The Index, TripAdvisor's first of this size and scale, gauges the industry's outlook for the year ahead. Among the survey's key findings: the discovery that 65 percent of U.S. respondents are optimistic about the prospect of an economic recovery in 2012, a full 27 percent higher than the global average of 38 percent.

U.S. respondents also expressed a bullish outlook on their own profitability in 2012. Seventy-six percent said they expect their businesses to be more profitable in 2012 than they were in 2011, as compared to a global average of 58 percent.

This optimism extended to hiring plans. Twenty-seven percent of U.S. respondents said they are planning to create new jobs in 2012, while the global industry average was slightly lower at 22 percent.

"The TripAdvisor Industry Index reveals an economic optimism among U.S. accommodation owners which reflects data showing one-third of U.S. travelers are planning to increase travel spending in 2012***," said Christine Petersen, president of TripAdvisor for Business.

TripAdvisor Industry Index reveals the hospitality industry's top trends, ranging from hotel representatives' economic outlook and plans to engage travelers using mobile devices to property investments and the top deals hoteliers plan to offer their guests.

"Hoteliers' plans to engage with travelers using social media and mobile devices are also important trends this year," said Petersen. "While it's encouraging to see so many planning to respond to online guest reviews in 2012, TripAdvisor's data show that only 15 percent of property reviews currently have management responses. The owners and managers who follow through on plans to respond to reviews will have an advantage over their competition."

For more data from the TripAdvisor Industry Index, please download the report here:cdn.tripadvisor.com/pdfs/email/IndustryIndex_English.pdf

Methodology
The TripAdvisor Industry Index survey was designed in conjunction with Brainbox Research and conducted from Dec. 21, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012. The survey was sent by email to a random sample of global accommodation owners and managers and generated 9,441 completed responses worldwide. Some of the questions in the survey were offered in a "select all that apply" format and therefore result in responses that yield percentages totaling a number greater than 100 percent.

About TripAdvisor
TripAdvisor® is the world's largest travel site, enabling travelers to plan and have the perfect trip. TripAdvisor offers trusted advice from real travelers and a wide variety of travel choices and planning features with seamless links to booking tools. TripAdvisor-branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with more than 50 million unique monthly visitors*, and over 60 million reviews and opinions. The sites operate in 30 countries worldwide, including China under daodao.com. TripAdvisor also includes TripAdvisor for Business, a dedicated division that provides the tourism industry access to TripAdvisor's millions of monthly visitors.

TripAdvisor, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRIP) manages and operates websites under 18 other travel media brands, and together the sites attract more than 65 million unique monthly visitors**. TripAdvisor's travel media brands include: www.airfarewatchdog.com, www.bookingbuddy.com, www.cruisecritic.com, www.familyvacationcritic.com, www.flipkey.com, www.holidaylettings.co.uk,www.independenttraveler.com, www.onetime.com, www.seatguru.com, www.sniqueaway.com, www.smartertravel.com,www.travelpod.com, www.virtualtourist.com, and www.kuxun.cn.

*Source: comScore Media Metrix for TripAdvisor Sites, Worldwide, August 2011

**Source: comScore Media Metrix for TripAdvisor Inc. and its subsidiaries, Worldwide, August 2011

***Source: TripAdvisor 2012 Travel Trends Survey, November 2011

©2012 TripAdvisor, Inc. All rights reserved.

2012 Meetings Market Trends Survey

More than 800 meeting planners share their opinions on how 2012 will shape up for the industry

World-Wide Recognition Puts Thompson Among Elite In Timeshare Industry

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA-February 6,2012-Bruce Thompson, CEO of Gold Key/ PHR Hotels and Resorts, was recognized as the "Best Industry Leader" by Perspective Magazine, the leading trade publication for the timeshare and fractional ownership industry.

The award was announced last week at the annual GNEX awards ceremony in Cancun, Mexico. The awards recognize excellence in various categories including management, sales, operations, architecture and marketing.  The "Best Industry Leader" is the final and most anticipated award each year and is reserved for the one person who has done the most to advance the industry and his or her own business.  The event is attended by top executives from around the world.

"I was truly humbled by this recognition," Thompson said.  "The nominees for this award are some highly regarded people who operate massive timeshare empires around the world.  It is really an honor for me to bring this award home to Virginia Beach and share it with the Gold Key/PHR team and our strategic partners at Interval International who helped make it possible."

Thompson and his Gold Key/PHR group have developed a number of successful timeshare properties at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, including Ocean Beach Club Resort, Turtle Cay Resort, Boardwalk Resort and Villas, and Beach Quarters Resort. The company's newest resort, OceanAire, is nearing completion and is scheduled to open this Spring. 

About Gold Key/PHR

Gold Key/PHR Hotels and Resorts is the Virginia Beach oceanfront's number one employer with up to 2,000 associates in season.  The company owns and operates seven properties in the Mid-Atlantic region and oversees approximately 1,700 rooms including the Hilton Virginia Beach Oceanfront.  The integrated hospitality firm owns and/or manages hotels, vacation ownership resorts and leading area restaurants including Mahi Mah's, Catch 31 and Salacia. Gold Key/PHR Hotels and Resorts is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Visit us at www.goldkeyphr.com.

# # #

Press Contact

Karen Lane

Gold Key/PHR

(757) 213-8902

Inside Business Article

The occupancy rates for Norfolk's and Virginia Beach's hotels are creeping back up toward pre-recession levels, and in 2011, Virginia Beach hotels saw their highest revenues per available room in five years.

Figures show that Norfolk's occupancy rate rose to 57.3 percent in 2011, up from 55.5 percent in 2009 and 56 percent in 2010. In 2007, occupancy rates were 63 percent, the highest over a 10-year period.

"You are not back to where you were, but it's definitely the highest it's been since the downturn," said Bobby Bowers, senior vice president of Smith Travel Research, which provided the numbers.

In Virginia Beach, the occupancy rate rose from 57.5 percent to 59.7 percent. Pre-recession, in 2007, the occupancy rate was 62.4 percent.

Last year, Virginia Beach revenue topped out at more than $262 million, beating annual revenue figures from 2008 to 2010, as well as 2007, when revenue only reached $249.6 million for the year.

In Virginia Beach, RevPar, a measurement of revenue per available room, also was at its highest in 2011 over the five-year period, at $64.89 per room. The second highest RevPar figures came in 2007, before the economy tanked, at $64.41.

A healthy occupancy rate is relative, Bowers said. While hoteliers might appreciate a 50 or 60 percent occupancy, "if you look at occupancy, and it's 50 percent, half of your capacity is going unused," Bowers said.

The national average occupancy rate is about 60 percent, Bowers said.

The increases come as both Nofolk and Virginia Beach are debating the prospect of new hotels.

Developers are proposing hotel projects to revive downtown Norfolk's Waterside Festival Marketplace.

Linda Markert, who until earlier this month was president of the Norfolk Hotel & Motel Association and remains on its board, said the association supports the concept of a new hotel at Waterside, "but we have not seen all the details and we have not seen the other proposals yet."

In Virginia Beach, there is still some concern from the public about a large investment, on the city's part, in a headquarters hotel near the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Earlier this month, Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms canceled a public hearing and city council vote on a headquarters hotel proposal for a 15-story Hyatt Regency, which would have cost the city $61.8 million.

The cost for the city, along with the threat of competition with existing hotels at the Oceanfront, alarmed the community. The entire cost of the project was $109.2 million.

Andy Vakos, part owner of The Oceanfront Inn at 2901 Atlantic Ave., questioned whether the hotel market could handle a development of the magnitude of a headquarters hotel.

"The market has been steady, and it has been going up," Vakos said. "But I'm not really sure if the area could handle a big facility with all the competing venues like that we have in a small drive."

Vakos said a private developer should take on the burden of the cost.

"I feel if there was a need for it, the private sector would come in and build it," he said.

The Williamsburg hotel market hasn't fared nearly as well as Norfolk and Virginia Beach.

Occupancy rates in Williamsburg are just 40.9 percent, and RevPar there is $35.

"Something needs to happen with Wililamsburg," said Vinod Agarwal, an ODU professor of economics. "They need to market themselves better." nib

By Bill Cresenzo and Danielle Walker

Va. Beach ranks no. 2 city for raising a family

Updated: Tuesday, 17 Jan 2012, 1:26 PM EST
Published : Tuesday, 17 Jan 2012, 1:26 PM EST

Click here for more information.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Debbie Zywna (757) 385-8025
Jolilda Saunders (757) 385-4621

Second Round of Public Meetings Planned for Hilltop SGA

The public is invited to the second round of meetings that are integral to developing a master plan for the Hilltop Strategic Growth Area, one of eight urban SGAs identified in the city's Comprehensive Plan.  As part of a weeklong design charrette, the public is invited to an open house on Wednesday, March 14, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Laskin Road Annex, 1413 Laskin Road to view the work in progress and to talk with the design team as it explores various future urban design scenarios for the SGA. Use the front entrance.  Additional parking is located behind the facility.

Also, a public meeting to view the refined design principles and design alternatives developed during the design charrette is planned for Thursday, March 15, from 6 to 8 p.m., also at the Laskin Road Annex.

In early January, the city held the first round of public meetings to receive broad public input on the SGA's strengths, weaknesses and opportunities.  These meetings were facilitated by Urban Design Associates, the consultant team, and resulted in a draft set of design principles and potential boundary expansion for the Hilltop SGA.  The purpose of the March design charette is to refine these principles into future design alternatives for the SGA and obtain more specific public input. 

For information on the Hilltop Strategic Growth Area Plan, contact Debbie Zywna in the Planning and Community Development Department at (757) 385-4621 or visit www.vbgov.com/hilltopplan.

# # #

News Release:  VBgov.com/Info

Posted: January 6, 2012

Jim Ricketts
Director of the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau

As chairman of the Coastal Virginia Tourism Alliance, I see great opportunities for marketing this region as a tourism destination in 2012.

The following organizations have combined forces to more effectively market "Coastal Virginia": Chesapeake Convention & Visitors Bureau, Eastern Shore of Virginia Tourism Commission, Hampton CVB, Newport News CVB, VisitNorfolk, City of Portsmouth, Smithfield & Isle of Wight CVB, Suffolk Division of Tourism, Virginia Beach CVB, Greater Williamsburg Chamber and Tourism Alliance, Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport, Norfolk International Airport and Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.

In the coming year, our goal is to increase visitation to the region for leisure, business, sports, and meetings and conventions. This would include educating the visitors to this region on everything there is to do here and how easily they can access the large array of options each city offers. This initiative will result in visitors staying longer in the region, thereby enhancing the economic impact to Coastal Virginia. Our member destinations know that if a visitor to the region stays longer, everyone will benefit.

CVTA will provide the regional travel and tourism industry with the ability to speak with "one voice" on major issues affecting this industry, such as transportation related to tourism and tourism funding.

This also includes "one voice" to celebrate our $4 billion regional industry during National Travel and Tourism Week in May, from recognizing the people who work day in and day out while providing visitors with a high-quality experience, to thanking our visitors for traveling. The power of "one voice," combined with the collaborative efforts of all the partners, will significantly impact tourism in this region.

On behalf of the members of the alliance, we wish everyone all the best in 2012, and keep traveling.

The award was originally presented from the Academy to Bobby Melatti and Mike Hilton from Beachevents and Larry Williams. Mr. Williams is a local Beach Music DJ and Shag dance instructor who has been instrumental in helping produce the event for 16 years.

In the attached photo Mike Hilton presented the award to city representatives as follows: from right to left: Jim Ricketts - Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau; Mike Hilton - Beachevents and Mike Eason - Resort Management Office - City of Virginia Beach.

Below is some background information about the award. I hope you will be able to use the photo. If you need anything else, please let me know.

Background:

The awards are voted on by the "Carolina Beach Music Academy" Members. The Academy is made up of Industry Professionals and Beach & Shag Music fans from all over the US and Canada. The Hall of Fame and Special Recognition Awards are decided by the Advisory Board and Board of Directors made up of CBM professionals.

The celebration of the CBMA Awards (originally called the Cammys for Carolina's Magic Music Years) began in 1995 as an exciting party of performers and fans of Carolina Beach Music.  Fourteen bands entertained at the first awards show held in Salisbury, NC.  Those in attendance will never forget the memorable event.

Charlotte, NC was home to the CBMAs for the next two years as the awards show continued to grow in size, scope and quality.

In 1998 the CBMAs moved to North Myrtle Beach, SC and the CBMA Weekend was born.

The mission of the CBMA Awards is to promote Carolina Beach Music, its influences and offshoots and the unique Carolina lifestyle by the presentation of a first class awards show that originates each November in North Myrtle Beach, SC.  The show honors winners in various categories and remembers the pioneers who originated this music and helped make it great.  Those honored are performers, songwriters, radio personalities, mobile DJ's, dancers, producers, engineers, promoters and others who have been integrally involved with the music's success.  The further overall purpose is to keep this music alive by getting young people involved in this fun yet clean cut music, to give the music its deserved recognition, respect and credibility, and to bring diverse people together in an upbeat harmonious manner.

The CBMA Awards have become an icon of Carolina Beach Music and the home of this southern tradition.

Here is the complete list of winners:
http://www.cammy.org/winners.html

 Beer Lovers & Wine Aficionados Unite

  For one week next month - Monday, Oct. 22, to Sunday, Oct. 28 - more than 50 of Virginia Beach's finest restaurants will serve 'Red, White, or Brew' during the first Virginia Beach Wine and Craft Beer Week. Specials will be offered throughout the city, including wines by the glass, flight and bottle paired with menu items specially created for the week. Virginia wines will be available for purchase in many participating restaurants. 

As culinary tourism evolves, Virginia Beach's unique coastal restaurant scene brings awareness, education and culinary events to the forefront. During this special week, local restaurants will raise awareness of the Virginia wine and craft beer industries. Virginia is home to more than 200 wineries and 35 breweries. Virginia Beach is proud to celebrate the heritage and excellence of these homegrown industries.

From the most discerning wine experts to beginning tasters, all who enjoy wine and beer will be welcome. You don't have to be a connoisseur to enjoy this event. Heck, you don't even have to know how to pronounce "connoisseur!" Reservations are strongly recommended, as wine and beer events consistently draw crowds of enthusiasts. Enjoy responsibly!

Visit www.dineinvb.com or call (757) 422-4420 for a list of participating restaurants, menus and more information.

The 2012 Virginia Beach Wine and Craft Beer Week is presented by the Virginia Beach Restaurant Association, a community partner of the Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT (S):
Tiffany Twine
(757) 385-6646
ttwine@visitvirginiabeach.com

Aimee Taylor
(757) 422-4420
aimee@vbra.com

"We had curious bottlenose dolphins near the boats on two trips last Wednesday and Thursday," said Aquarium Boat Interpreter Alexis Rabon. "On one of the morning boats , guests were also treated to many Northern gannets plunge diving, double-crested cormorants diving from the surface of the water, and sightings of brown pelicans, and various gull species," she said.

New Year's Eve morning boat guests saw two humpback whales, all of the previously mentioned birds AND a seal hanging out near Rudee Inlet.

Today the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Team confirmed that there are four humpback whales near the Cape Henry Lighthouse.

This is an event that continues to grow in size and talent each year, and this year, it did not disappoint. With 138 teams ready to partake this weekend, this is the largest NHSCA National Wrestling Duals to date. The three day event kicks off 9am on May 26 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center in Virginia Beach, Virginia over Memorial Day weekend. This year's field boasts 138 teams that hail from 15 states, including wrestlers from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Florida, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, New Hampshire, Texas, Iowa, Illinois, West Virginia, and Georgia.

"Each year, it is said this is the best year yet, but I am confident in saying this year's talent blows the roof off years in the past," NHSCA Executive Director Bobby Ferraro Jr. said. "Each team brings something different to the table. This year's event should be one for the record books".

The NHSCA National Duals is a scholastic-style team event featuring three age groups: Elementary (Grades 4-6) with 29 teams entered, Middle School (Grades 6-8) with 39 teams entered, and High School (Grades 9-12) with 69 teams entered. Participants on the top four teams in each division are officially declared All-American Team Members. The High School Division Champ will take home the Cole Baublitz Memorial Award. It commemorates a very special wrestler from Diesel who was tragically killed at age 19 in 2007. Cole loved the sport of wrestling, the competition, and the joy of the team unity that prevailed when wrestlers who normally compete against each other for different schools join forces on the same team.

You can watch all the action LIVE via the High School Television Network's webcast. For all information, please go to http://www.hstn.tv/.

At the 2011 NHSCA National Duals, Team Griffin Black put together a record-setting display of domination to win the High School Division.  The Illinois Outsiders (Middle School Division) and SEPA Blue (Elementary Division) also won titles at in the Middle School and Elementary Divisions, respectively. All three teams are back to defend their title at the Battle of the Beach.

Team Griffin Black accomplished what is believed to be a first in the National Wrestling Duals, not losing a single bout in pool competition. They shut out all seven opponents in their pool by a combined 494-0 margin - an average score of nearly 71-0 - and extended their shutout streak to eight with another shutout in the opening bracket round -- the Round of 16. Team Griffin Black sealed the deal with victories of 28-15 over SEPA Blue in the quarterfinals, 31-17 over Young Guns Black in the semifinals and 34-18 over Pennsylvania Diesel in the title match. Young Guns Black took third place in the division with a 34-18 victory over the South Florida Lightning.

The Illinois Outsiders earned their first National Wresting Duals title since winning back-to-back Elementary Division crowns in 2006 and 2007. They also went 7-0 in pool competition, and just two of their first nine opponents scored in double figures. Including their victories of 61-9 over Illinois Orange and Blue in the quarterfinals and 67-6 over Renegade Force in the semifinals, they pounded their first nine opponents by an average 64-8 score. The championship match went down to the wire, with the Outsiders nipping Team Griffin Cotton 31-30. Young Guns White shut out Renegade Force, 53-0 in the third-place match.

SEPA Blue went 4-0 in Elementary Division pool competition before beating Weaver Elite, 54-9 in the quarterfinals and Young Guns White, 44-21 in the semifinals. The championship match was a pool rematch, with SEPA Blue beating the Buckeye Grapplers, 45-17. That score was nearly identical to SEPA Blue's 45-16 pool win. As was the case in the Middle School Division, Young Guns White and Renegade Force again squared off for third place, and once again Young Guns White prevailed, but this time by a single point, 35-34.

NHSCA NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS HALL OF FAME MUSEUM
Easton, Pennsylvania

Hutchinson has been selected one of the most influential African American managers in the hospitality/meetings/tourism industry by Black Meetings & Tourism Magazine.

On the job

My role is to lead the sales and marketing efforts for the department and to bring in conventions, conferences, meetings and sports events to generate tax revenue for the city of Virginia Beach.

Right now our major focus is to make this a year-round destination. We are always looking for conferences that would like to meet between the months of October and May to assist with moving the needle for visitation and hotel usage for the off season.

This is done with the assistance of eight sales managers that work in different market segments. They are responsible for looking for potential prospects for the city. We do a lot of phone-calling, face-to-face marketing and going to trade shows to bring in potential clients. It's really a multifaceted process we use to attract visitors to Virginia Beach. The big selling feature is the convention center. It's a state-of-the art building that has won more than 12 awards and is recognized as a customer-friendly facility.

On my career

I've been in this position for eight years and in the industry for 19 years. I started working for the Richmond Convention and Visitors Bureau in 1992, Charlotte Convention Center from 1995 to 1999, Pittsburgh Convention Center and Visitors Bureau 1999-2000, and the Park Hotel in Charlotte, N.C., from 2000 to 2001. I've enjoyed my career because I'm a people person. I enjoy selling a destination and taking a potential customer who had no interest in your destination and showing them all the benefits of this area. It's all about taking them from A to Z.

On challenges

Unlike three or four years ago, the big challenge we face now is the competition. Most cities we compete with have great products and facilities in their region. They are being very aggressive when they go after these clients. Bringing in potential clients is a great way to bring in revenue for businesses. The state of the economy has made it challenging as well. Some groups have downsized and are not meeting like they did in the past. You really have to offer great packages on the front end. Folks don't have time to take three or four looks at your destination. They expect you to give them the best offer right out of the gate. The other challenge is making sure we have the right product to meet the needs of the customer. Some clients are looking for convention centers that are connected to hotels. We don't have that particular product right now so that can be challenging when it comes to folks who are looking for that. We have lost some folks because we don't have that product.

On the community

I think it's extremely important for community leaders to understand the value of what tourism and hospitality bring to Virginia Beach. I try to bring the educational component to it by creating awareness about what we do. It's important to have those partnerships with different community leaders and bring that expertise to the table to help provide them with services. A lot of these leaders are members of major organizations and they can sometimes assist with helping to bring clients to Virginia Beach. It's a common-sense approach.

I want to be part of the community and I want folks to know that I am of service to them if they need me.

On the award

Well, it's humbling to be recognized by your peers in the industry. Even though it's 2011, there are still very few African Americans in a senior management position in hospitality across the country and globe. To be one of those limited numbers makes me feel honored.

It's great to know my contributions to the industry are being recognized. It speaks to my longevity in the industry and to the great people I work with on a daily basis.

RESORT MANAGEMENT AND SPECIAL EVENTS OFFICE

Resort Special Event Notice

Surf-N-Santa 10 Miler & Frosty's Fun Run 5K
Saturday, December 3, 2011

Please click here to view information concerning street closures and opening times.