Maya 2012: Ancient Prophecy or Modern Myth?
PHILADELPHIA, PA—Did the Maya believe the world would end in December 2012?
With MAYA 2012: Lords of Time—a world premiere exhibition opening May 5th—the Penn Museum confronts the current fascination with the year 2012, comparing predictions of a world-transforming apocalypse with their supposed origins in the ancient Maya civilization. The exhibition is presented in partnership with the Instituto Hondureño de Antropologia e Historia of the Republic of Honduras, and runs through January 13, 2013.
His Excellency Porfirio Lobo Sosa, President of the Republic of Honduras, joins Penn Museum Director Richard Hodges to cut the ribbon and open the exhibition to the public at 10:00 am Saturday, May 5. An Opening Weekend Celebration, co-sponsored by the Mexican Cultural Center, features Mayan and Central American music, dance, weaving and craft demonstrations, and family craft activities in the Museum Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Timed tickets to the exhibition (includes admission to the Museum) are on sale by phone (888.695.0888), or through the Museum’s website (http://www.penn.museum/2012).
MAYA 2012 leads visitors on a journey through the Maya’s time-ordered universe, expressed through their intricate calendar systems, and the power wielded by their divine kings, the astounding “lords of time.” Visitors explore the Maya world through a range of interactive experiences and walk among sculptures and full-sized replicas of major monuments while uncovering the truth behind these apocalyptic predictions.
The exhibition features more than 150 remarkable objects, including artifacts recently excavated by Penn Museum archaeologists at the site of Copan, Honduras, and on loan from the Instituto Hondureño de Antropologia e Historia. Visitors follow the rise and fall of Copan, moving across the centuries to discover how Maya ideas about time and the calendar have changed up to the present day. Contemporary Maya speak to their own heritage and concerns for the future.
“MAYA 2012 offers visitors a rare opportunity to view spectacular examples of Classic Maya art—some of which have never before been seen outside Honduras—and delve into the Maya people’s extraordinary, layered, and shifting concepts about time,” noted Exhibition Curator Dr. Loa Traxler. “MAYA 2012: Lords of Time uncovers a history and culture far richer and more surprising than commonly supposed.”
Dr. Traxler, Mellon Associate Deputy Director of the Penn Museum and co-author of The Ancient Maya, (Sixth Edition, 2006), is an archaeologist who excavated at the site of Copan from 1989 through 2003. Simon Martin, Associate Curator of the Museum’s American Section and a leading Maya epigrapher, is co-curator of the exhibition.
What is the 2012 Phenomenon?
In recent years, the media have been filled with claims that the ancient Maya predicted a cataclysmic event at the end of their calendar. Some believe that a celestial alignment will bring a series of devastating natural disasters. Others argue that this event will bring enlightenment and a new age of peace. As December 2012 draws closer, new predictions continue to emerge. But what did the Maya really believe?
The Maya and their Calendar
The ancient Maya civilization has long fascinated scholars and the public alike. For 2,000 years, the Maya flourished in southern Mexico and parts of Central America, their grand cities featuring temple pyramids, palaces, ball courts, and intricately carved stone monuments bearing royal portraits and a complex hieroglyphic script. They excelled in art, architecture, astronomy, and mathematics—developing a calendar system that amazes and intrigues to this day.
The exhibition invites the visitor to explore the ancient Maya’s complex, interlocking calendar systems, which were based on an advanced understanding of astronomy and the night sky. Their most elaborate system, the Long Count, encompasses trillions of years, and one of its important cycles comes to a close on December 23, 2012 (some scholars say December 21, 2012). This is the origin of the Maya 2012 “end of the world” phenomenon.
Highlights of this section include an immersive re-creation of a Maya pyramid, and opportunities to create your own Maya name in hieroglyphs and to calculate your birthdate within the Maya calendar.
Copan and the Lords of Time
The ancient Maya believed that their kings were embodiments of time. At the site of Copan, Honduras, a dynasty of 16 kings ruled for nearly four centuries, from 426 to after 800 CE. Discoveries from recent excavations—including work by Penn Museum archaeologists—provide new insights and remarkable artifacts to tell the story of these lords and their unique understanding, and use, of time. Tunneling deep under the pyramids of Copan, archaeologists uncovered the tomb of the founder of the Copan dynasty, “Radiant First Quetzal Macaw.” The exhibition features jade jewelry and sophisticated ceramic vessels that accompanied the king on his journey into the Underworld.
Several important artifacts too massive to travel outside Honduras have been reproduced at full scale using state-of-the-art laser scanning technology. These include the historically significant Altar Q, the ultimate symbol of the Copan dynasty that carries portraits of all 16 kings, and the Margarita Panel, a vibrantly painted architectural panel featuring the emblematic name of Copan’s first ruler, shown as two elegantly entwined birds.
In all, 75 Classic period Maya artifacts excavated at Copan are featured. An interactive multimedia touch-table allows visitors to explore the extraordinary tunnels and tombs under the pyramids at Copan, using the actual drawings and images from the archaeologists who first uncovered them.
The “Lost” History of the Maya
The fall of divine kings and the abandonment of a great number of Maya cities are referred to as the Maya “Collapse.” This exhibition connects the missing pieces of the Maya story following its still mysterious decline, taking visitors to the present day. The Maya did not disappear. Today, more than seven million Maya, speaking a variety of Mayan languages, live in Central America and Mexico, with more Maya people living around the globe.
Many aspects of Maya culture were lost during the Spanish Conquest. Only four Maya books remain from this period. Two reproductions, the Dresden and Madrid Codices, are partnered with an extremely rare manuscript written just after the Conquest, revealing the extent to which Maya concepts of time were altered. Fine ethnographic textiles and 20th century folk art masks from the Penn Museum’s own collection lead the visitor to meet the Maya in the contemporary world.
Throughout the exhibition, visitors are able to “meet” experts on the ancient Maya to hear their perspectives through a series of interviews. In the final section of the exhibition, several Maya people speak for themselves, sharing their perspectives on the end of the world predictions—and on the contemporary concerns of the Maya.
MAYA 2012: Lords of Time is made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor, and lead support from The Annenberg Foundation and the Selz Foundation. Mrs. Louis Madeira IV, in honor of Dr. Peter D. Harrison, and A. Bruce and Margaret Mainwaring are Partnering Underwriters. Martha M. Duran and Luis Fernandez, the Mexican Society of Philadelphia, and Renee and Carlos Nottebohm are Supporting Underwriters. Aker Shipyard, The Christian R. and Mary F. LindbackFoundation, Annette Merle-Smith, PNC Foundation, and the Malcolm Hewitt Wiener Foundation are Education Partners. Host Hotels and Resorts is the Hotel Partner. Global Arena is the Language Services Partner. NBC 10, the Philadelphia Inquirer and philly.com, and Al DiaNews Media, are Media Partners.
TICKET AND TOUR INFORMATION for MAYA 2012: Lords of Time:
General admission timed tickets (includes admission to the rest of the Museum) for individuals are available for purchase beginning February 1, 2012.
- Adult: $22.50
- Senior (65+)/Military: $18.50
- Students (full-time with ID)/Children (6 to 17 years): $16.50
Tickets are on sale at www.penn.museum/2012, or by phone: 888.695.0888.
LA LIMPIEZA DE PRIMAVERA REPRESENTA GRANDES AHORROS DURANTE EL MES DE LA RENOVACIÓN MÓVIL EN RADIOSHACK
El valor mínimo para intercambios en abril alienta a los clientes a limpiar sus cajones y cambiar los
viejos teléfonos por nueva tecnología móvil
RadioShack, minorista nacional líder en productos, servicios y accesorios de tecnología innovadora, anuncia el Mes de la Renovación
Móvil (America’s Mobile Makeover Month, en inglés) de RadioShack, flamante programa de la compañía
para ayudar a los clientes a estar al día con la siempre cambiante y acelerada tecnología móvil, pero sin
Entre el 1 y el 28 de abril, a través de esta promoción especial, RadioShack garantiza a los
clientes un mínimo de $30 y un máximo de $300 en crédito inmediato en la tienda, al intercambiar un
teléfono móvil en buen estado y activar uno nuevo.
Una reciente encuesta encargada por RadioShack determinó que más de 90 millones de
estadounidenses adultos tienen en sus casas productos tecnológicos sin usar. Además, un tercio de
los usuarios de teléfonos móviles informan que tienen teléfonos sin usar, y más de la mitad de quienes
tienen teléfonos sin usar tienen dos o más aparatos. RadioShack alienta a los clientes a que hagan una
limpieza de primavera a partir de este fin de semana, poniendo las cosas en orden, liberando los lugares
para tener más espacio para guardar cosas y preparándose para descubrir el valor de sus móviles sin
uso a partir de este domingo.
“Todos tenemos tesoros tecnológicos escondidos en nuestros hogares. RadioShack, con
gran entusiasmo, da a los clientes un incentivo para descubrir ese valor”, afirmó Gene M. Dinkens,
vicepresidente senior de operaciones en tiendas para RadioShack Corp. “El programa del Mes de la
Renovación Móvil de RadioShack propone un desafío para meterse en ese cajón de trastos, limpiar ese
armario, revisar debajo del sillón y ponerle fin a esa costumbre de acumular productos tecnológicos.
Tráiganos sus productos viejos para que en este mes de abril podamos ayudar a todo el país a ahorrar
La iniciativa del Mes de la Renovación Móvil de RadioShack se extenderá del 1 al 28 de abril
del 2012, en las tiendas RadioShack participantes en todo el país, y también presentará especiales
adicionales de intercambios en circulares semanales disponibles en línea todos los domingos mientras
dure la promoción. Los valores mínimos garantizados para los intercambios están disponibles solamente
hasta el 28 de abril, pero el accesible programa Intercambia y Ahorra de RadioShack está disponible
todos los días. Los productos entregados a través del programa Intercambia y Ahorra de RadioShack
son reciclados o restaurados, lo que representa un ahorro de dinero para los clientes mientras se evita
que los productos tecnológicos en desuso vayan a terminar en la basura.
Si desea más información sobre el programa Intercambia y Ahorra de RadioShack
o para conocer el valor de su dispositivo, visite el RadioShack más cercano, vaya a
radioshacktradeandsave.com, o descargue la aplicación gratuita RadioShack Trade & Save en Apple
App Store o Google Play for Android.
Realice la operación de intercambio en las tiendas de RadioShack participantes para aprovechar
el valor mínimo de cambio especial en los teléfonos móviles en funcionamiento o para recibir, de
inmediato, un crédito en la tienda. Los intercambios también pueden realizarse por correo. Visite
radioshacktradeandsave.com para recibir una etiqueta de envío gratuito. Una vez que se haya recibido
el producto, se enviará por correo una tarjeta de regalo de RadioShack por el valor del cambio. Los
intercambios por un mínimo de $30 requieren la compra en la tienda y la activación de un nuevo teléfono
en un plan de dos años aprobado, y se limita a uno por cliente. El valor de $300 se aplica únicamente
al Apple iPhone 4S 64GB y al Samsung Galaxy S II; los valores de los demás modelos varían. Los
productos deben funcionar perfectamente. Se aplican otras restricciones. Si desea más información,
Los resultados de la encuesta, encargada por RadioShack, son de una encuesta telefónica
realizada a nivel nacional con 2,327 adultos, mayores de 18 años, que fue realizada entre el 19 y el
25 de marzo del 2012 por KRC Research. Esta cifra incluye 327 entrevistas realizadas con hispano-
estadounidenses de un total de 406 entrevistas con esta audiencia. El error de margen para el estudio
total es de +/- 2.0 por ciento.
DON OMAR confirmed to Billboard Latin Music Conference & Awards 2012
AN EXCLUSIVE ONE ON ONE WITH THE BILLBOARD LATIN MSUIC AWARD TOP FINALIST, DISCUSSING HIT SINGLES, MERCHANDISING AND UNIQUE MARKETING DEALS, INCLUDING HIS NEW ALLIANCE WITH ZUMBA!
LESS THAN 2 WEEKS AWAY, ONLY A FEW SEATS LEFT
LAST CHANCE FOR REGISTRATION
SLZO12 (Letters SLZO, number 12)
DAY 1 HIGHLIGHTS
- Q&A With Don Omar: Unveiling the Strategy Behind the Hits. Featuring Zumba!
- From Santana to Lo Proximo: Live Nation Latin touring and brand partnerships
- The Leaders Panel: Execs from Sony Music US Latin, CMN, UMLE and more come together for a no-holds barred discussion on the state of the industry.
DAY 2 HIGHLIGHTS
- How I Wrote That Song Presented by BMI: Featuring Chino y Nacho, Gocho and Horacio Palencia
- Do It Yourself: The path to indie success with Ricky Munoz from Intocable
- DJ Takes the Spotlight: Breaking new music and defining trends with Juan Magan and more
PLUS
- Superstar Q&A with Pitbull
- Q&A with Jenni Rivera: the diva we want to know
- Being Social Panel Featuring Daddy Yankee
- Regional Mexican Panel Featuring Gerardo Ortiz and more, sponsored by Morgan Renee Live, LLC
- The Latin Music Marketing Exchange and Awards, sponsored by Telemundo and mun2
- The Billboard BASH
- The Billboard Latin Music Awards, presented by State Farm, Produced and Broadcast live by Telemundo
- And MORE
Don’t miss the biggest and best celebration of Latin Music. REGISTER TODAY.
For Hotel only, use group code: BILLBOARD LATIN MUSIC
Explore the Beaches North of LA With Special Spring and Summer Rates at the Ventura Beach Marriott from $159 Per Night
Travelers who are seeking a different Southern
California experience can treat themselves to an exploration of Ventura Beach, with special spring and summer rates at the Ventura Beach Marriott from only $159 per night including free parking and Internet.
Located an hour north of Los Angeles and 30 minutes south of Santa Barbara, the Ventura Beach Marriott is the perfect gateway to a classic Southern California beach town. Ventura embodies the true spirit of California with gracious hospitality, uncrowded beaches, harbor cruises, whale watching, culture, intriguing history, festive shops, and many dining and entertainment options all nearby. Popular area attractions include Channel Islands National Park, Seaside Park, San Buenaventura State Beach, Ventura Harbor, Camarillo Premium Outlets, Ronald Reagan Presidential Lobby, and the Fillmore and Western Railway.
The Ventura Beach Marriott is participating in the Bring Back the Fun at Marriotts in Southern California promotion and is currently offering deluxe accommodations, complimentary self parking, and free high-speed Internet access at a rate of $159 per night. This rate is valid for stays Thursday through Sunday, from now through September 5 and is exclusive of taxes. To book this package, visit www.marriott.com/specials/
The Ventura Beach Marriott features 285 spacious, pet friendly guest rooms offering Marriott’s signature bedding. The hotel features a fitness center, outdoor pool, whirlpool, and bike rental on property for easy exploration of the area. Guests can delight in the flavor of Baja Coastal Cuisine at the Pacifico restaurant or relax in the Lounge with trendy spirits and an extensive wine list. For additional information, visitwww.marriottventurabeach.com or call 805-643-6000.
Si Obama esta serio acerca de la elevación de América Latina, comenzará con El Salvador
POR DR. ROB SOBHANI
rob@robsobhani.com
Esta semana el presidente Obama recibió una así llamada “Three Amigos” en la Casa Blanca, donde se dio la bienvenida a los líderes de Canadá y México. Obama se comprometió a impulsar los lazos económicos y de seguridad con los vecinos de Estados Unidos, que también son sus mayores socios comerciales. En particular, Obama se comprometió a “reducir la burocracia y asegurar que las regulaciones inteligentes [ahorrando] las empresas, los consumidores, y de nuestro país más de $ 100 mil millones”. Espero que estas palabras tienen más dientes que algunas garantías previas de esta y las administraciones anteriores. Presidentes Obama y Filipe Calderón, de México, dio a entender en más anuncios de iniciativas, como la recién formada “Sociedad transpacífica”, mientras que en la Cumbre de las Américas de la próxima semana. Ya lo veremos.
Pero antes de que la discusión se pone demasiado amplio o sumidos en la diplomacia multilateral, es útil para nosotros para poner una cara a lo que una política significativa estadounidense latinoamericana podría parecer. Y así, dejando de lado el caso especial de México, por el momento, me someto a El Salvador como un candidato ideal para la implementación de una “doctrina Monroe” para el siglo 21. En este escenario, los EE.UU. eleva la importancia estratégica y económica de nuestra relación con América Latina, con profundas implicaciones para nuestras relaciones económicas, comerciales, de seguridad, inmigración, medio ambiente, derechos humanos y las políticas energéticas.
Durante la década de los 80, los líderes militares de El Salvador – reforzadas por el amplio apoyo financiero de los EE.UU. – llevaron a cabo una campaña de masacres y terror en un esfuerzo por acabar con un movimiento revolucionario de izquierda. El conflicto dejó más de 75.000 personas muertas. Más de una cuarta parte de la población del país fue desplazada por los combates y muchos optaron por establecerse en este país.
Los que se fueron de El Salvador en los años 1980 y 1990 dicen que siguen en la incertidumbre sobre el futuro del país, que todavía lucha con la inestabilidad económica y social. Y si bien los acuerdos de paz firmados hace 20 años pusieron fin al conflicto armado, y abrieron la puerta a una mayor democratización y el respeto de los derechos humanos, la desigualdad y la injusticia prevalecen todavía.
El Salvador, que es del tamaño de Massachusetts, tiene una de las tasas de homicidio más altas del mundo, con 86 homicidios por cada 100.000 habitantes. La mayor parte de la violencia en El Salvador se atribuye a las pandillas que se disputan el territorio y las rutas de tráfico de drogas, una situación similar a la de su vecino Honduras. Más allá de eso, los salvadoreños carecen de un adecuado sistema educativo, así como fuertes instituciones socio-políticas.
La mayoría de los salvadoreños anhelan regresar a reconstruir su país, en vez de luchar por puestos que pagan salarios bajos y en efectivo. De hecho, Cynthia J. Arnson, una erudita en el Woodrow Wilson Center, sostiene que los expatriados salvadoreños juegan un papel fundamental mediante el envío de remesas a su país, pero eso no es suficiente. El Salvador necesita gente para reconstruir la economía y ofrecer oportunidades de educación y trabajo para evitar que se unan a las pandillas. Según el Banco Central, El Salvador recibió $ 3.6 mil millones en remesas el año pasado. Eso es importante, pero no es igual que la creación de una capacidad productiva.
Y sin embargo, esta capacidad productiva se puede crear si ponemos en práctica un conjunto de iniciativas complementarias:
• En primer lugar, establecemos los micro-préstamos para ayudar a los salvadoreños con el capital inicial para reconstruir su país de origen. Con una capital de $5,1 mil millones permitiría a los 1,7 millones de salvadoreños obtener un préstamo de $3.000 para empezar sus propios negocios en El Salvador. La experiencia de los expatriados salvadoreños en los EE.UU. podría ser muy útil para la reconstrucción de su país.
• En segundo lugar, con el fin de mantener este flujo inverso de capital de los EE.UU. hacia El Salvador, Washington puede separar un porcentaje de su comercio con China y reorientarlo a El Salvador. Cada año, los EE.UU. importa $8 millones de dólares en juguetes procedentes de la China, pero imagine si los EE.UU. promoviera una alianza pública-privada que crearía incentivos de la producción de los juguetes en El Salvador, donde el trabajo asalariado puede ser competitivo con el de la China¿ Qué pasaría si las empresas de juguetes estadounidenses firmaran contratos de largo plazo con estos fabricantes con sede en El Salvador, los cuales estarían sujetos a los mismos aranceles como los que se importan de la China? El año pasado la inversión extranjera directa en El Salvador fue de apenas $78 millones y por lo una inyección de $8000 millones en la economía local crearía una ola de creación trabajo sostenible.
• En tercer lugar, el Congreso debe pasar el Dream Act inmediatamente para permitir que los salvadoreños que se encuentran ilegalmente en los EE.UU. pagar la matrícula de residentes estatales en las universidades norteamericanas. Armados con los grados apropiados, e junto con incentivos económicos, los salvadoreños jóvenes podrían ir a casa y ayudar a reconstruir sus comunidades locales.
Durante demasiado tiempo, Washington ha ignorado sus vecinos del sur y es el momento de reorientar nuestra atención a la estabilidad y la creación de riqueza en países como El Salvador.
Las guerras en Centroamérica dejaron una marca indeleble en su gente trabajadora. A medida que tiene la hegemonía de las Américas, los Estados Unidos tiene el deber de promover el desarrollo económico y la justicia en El Salvador, así como el resto de América Latina.
Rob Sobhani es un ex profesor de política exterior de EE.UU. en la Universidad de Georgetown.
Luxury Has Never Been More Affordable: From The Aer Lingus Vacation Store
Lobby of The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt
Imagine traveling to Ireland in Business Class round-trip on Aer Lingus, staying at five-star hotels across the country, and enjoying private chauffeur-driven touring between cities — all for less than $3,000 per person round-trip for a six-night getaway. This dream trip is now a reality for travelers who book the new “Ultimate Luxury Package” from the Aer Lingus Vacation Store.
A group of four travelers will experience true Irish hospitality with incredible elegance and unparalleled luxury throughout this six-night vacation which includes stays in four of Ireland’s most exclusive properties where many of the world’s famous actors, athletes, politicians, and royalty have stayed: Four Seasons in Dublin, Glenlo Abbey in Galway, Muckross Park Hotel in Killarney, and The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt. And to make it even more exclusive, the private driver lets travelers see it all in style and comfort!
Here is how the itinerary works:
Day 1: Depart USA to Dublin, Ireland on Aer Lingus
Day 2: Arrive in Dublin and transfer by private car and driver to enjoy the first night at the Four Seasons located in one of the most exclusive areas of Dublin City. The remainder of the day is free to explore Dublin independently.
Day 3: Travel in style via a private chauffeur-driven car to Galway and stay at 5-star Glenlo Abbey, a perfect base for relaxation and exploration. Travelers will have the driver available for 8 consecutive hours on Day 3, including travel time from Dublin to Galway.
Day 4: Day at leisure in Galway to enjoy all the five-star Glenlo Abbey has to offer.
Day 5: The driver/guide and vehicle are at the traveler’s disposal to enjoy for another full-day to travel and sight-see from Galway to Killarney. Participants will spend 2 nights in Killarney at the five-star Muckross Park Hotel, enjoying the beauty of Co Kerry.
Day 6: Day at leisure in Killarney at the five-star Muckross Park Hotel.
Day 7: The private chauffeur drive begins in the morning as travelers enjoy a full day of sightseeing along the way to Wicklow for the final night at The 5-star Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt - a last night of luxury!
Day 8: Private transfer back to Dublin airport for the return flight home on Aer Lingus.
The Ultimate Luxury Package includes:
Accommodation:
- First night Four Seasons, Dublin, Wicklow (5-star)
- 2 nights Glenlo Abbey, Galway (5-star)
- 2 nights Muckross Park Hotel, Killarney (5-star)
- Last night at The Ritz-Carlton Powerscourt, Wicklow (5-star)
Transportation:
- Round-trip Business Class airfare to Dublin on Aer Lingus
- Private roundtrip Dublin airport transfers on Day 2 and Day 8
- Private Chauffeur and car for three days travel and sightseeing, Days 3, 5, and 7
Other Inclusions
- All local taxes, hotel service charges, carrier and government imposed taxes/fees/facility charges on airfare. Chauffeur gratuities are NOT included.
This round-trip package is priced from $2,799 from New York; $2,825 from Boston; and $2,899 from Chicago for travel between April 1 and May 31, 2012. The package price is based on four people traveling together. Other departure dates are available at slightly higher rates. Fares are based on select Monday through Thursday travel. This package is available for sale through October 31, 2012. To book this package call 1-800-495-1632 or click here.
Palace Resorts Participates in Highly-Anticipated Tianguis Turistico
Palace Resorts – the company that sets the standard in luxurious, all-inclusive resort accommodations – is thrilled to have been a part of an historic 2012 Tianguis Turistico, Mexico’s most important travel industry event, this year taking place in Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta instead of Acapulco where it has been held for the past 36 years. At the opening ceremony, the Hon. Felipe Calderon, President of Mexico, and the Secretary of Tourism, Gloria Guevara presented Jose Chapur, president of Palace Resorts, with an Entrepreneurial Achievement Award for his efforts in promoting tourism to the country. The award was received by son and Executive Vice President of Palace Resorts, Gibran Chapur.
With a 50% increase in the number of attending buyers, and a 30% increase in participating countries during this year’s Tianguis Turistico, Palace announced upcoming plans for the transformation of Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort into an entertainment destination unlike any other, an update on the brand’s partnership with celebrity wedding planner Colin Cowie and much more.
- After three successful full-scale concert productions, including the most recent performance by Grammy award-winning Enrique Iglesias, which welcomed 11,000 fans on March 10, 2012, Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort has solidified itself as Cancun’s premier entertainment resort destination, offering live performances by the best and most coveted artists of our time. Palace Resorts has elevated the all-inclusive experience by combining world-class talent with world-class hospitality to offer guests an unforgettable vacation experience. Moon Palace hosted its first mega concert with award-winning artist Shakira, one of the world’s most successful and popular performers of our time, last August. Jon Secada was the second artist to take the stage, serenading guests on Valentine’s Day for a romantic night under the stars. Additional artists will be announced soon.
- Palace Resorts’ premium property, Le Blanc Spa Resort recently received AAA Five Diamond Award distinction for the second consecutive year. Le Blanc stands as the only all-inclusive resort in Cancun’s famed Hotel Zone to receive one of hospitality’s highest distinctions, reserved for superior properties that exemplify the highest level of excellence in every facet of operation. The property continues to shine through the rating system with premium service standards, personalized guest experiences and outstanding on-site amenities.
- Beginning June 2012, the unprecedented partnership between Palace Resorts and celebrity wedding planner Colin Cowie comes to life. Previously only available to society and celebrity clients, the exclusive Colin Cowie Wedding Collection will now be available for couples who wed or renew their vows at all Palace Resorts. The nine Colin Cowie Wedding Collection Packages at Palace Resorts feature chic designs inspired by the beauty of Mexico, and include everything needed to create a perfect and unique wedding that perfectly defines the style of the bride and groom.
- Available starting April 2012, Palace Resorts is adding additional top-shelf brands such as Stoli and Absolut, and U.S. domestic beer brands such as Coors Light, to its current list of premium spirits and beverage offerings. These and many other brands, including Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal and Bacardi are served at restaurants, bars and nightclubs throughout all Palace Resorts properties, and even in guests’ private minibars. Heineken, another premium beer, is also available specifically to Le Blanc guests.
- Palace Resorts created its new marketing arm earlier this year, The All-Inclusive Collection, consisting of the only two all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels. Additionally, the company announced a new sales and marketing team that is reinforcing the Palace Resorts’ portfolio. Comprised of a hand-picked group touted as the best in their fields, the new sales and marketing team brings a fresh vision, strong level of expertise and innovative ideas, with a laser focus on the high service standards leisure and business guests have come to expect from Palace Resorts. The Palace Resorts executive team is now led by the following.
- Executive Vice President, Gibran Chapur
- Chief Operating Officer, Sandor Winkler
- Vice President Marketing, Kathy Halpern
- Vice President Group Sales, Ginny Davito
- Corporate Sales Director, Jorge Vivas
- Public Relations Manager, Cessie Cerrato
- Director of North American Field Sales, Ash Tembe
“I am proud to announce that all seven properties under the Palace Resorts portfolio, which include Le Blanc, Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort, Sun Palace, Beach Palace, Cozumel Palace, Playacar Palace and Isla Mujeres Palace, stand in the top 5% of TripAdvisor rankings,” said Chapur. “This is the truest testament of our commitment to the highest level of service and offerings for our guests. With this new sales and marketing team, I am confident we will continue to exceed expectations and lead the luxury all-inclusive market.”
Chicago Designer Borris Powell Presents Fall/Winter 2012 Collection-“Without a Shadow of Doubt”
Chicago designer and 2011 Oscar Designer Challenge Winner Borris Powell will present his much anticipated 2012 Fall /Winter Collection, Without a Shadow of Doubt at the River East Art Center in Chicago, Illinois. Powell will reveal his inspiration of pure beauty and confidence in his latest collection which consists of warm brown hues, yellows, hints of greys and a ‘pop’ of his signature red. Expect the unexpected as Powell introduces his first (and highly anticipated) New additions to the Borris Powell line include silky scarves and sleek handbags. The show will open with fashions from STRUT Boutique where Powell’s garments are sold.
Just one year after winning the prestigious Oscars Designer Challenge, Powell’s career continues to flourish. He has expanded his lines into RTW, handbags, men’s looks and other accessories. Powell’s pieces once again graced the red carpet at this year’s Grammys with music mogul/nominee Ralphi Rosario donning a custom suit in navy blue with a slim fit accented in blue silk lining and gold trim.
Borris Powell's "Without a Shadow of Doubt"
Date: Sunday, March 18th -5:30 pm VIP entrance, 6:30pm General Admission Show begins promptly at 7:00pm
Location: River East Art Center 435 E. Illinois St. Chicago, IL 60611 312.321.1001
Tickets: Tickets are available ONLINE only at http://www.uvidy.com/BorrisPowell A portion of proceeds will benefit a local charity. VIP $110 and General Admission $40 *VIP includes complimentary cocktails before and after event, first available premium seating, and gift bag. *General Admission gains entrance to the show at standing room only.
SPRING INTO THE SEASON WITH AMAZING CANCUN TRAVEL DEALS
Spring is around the corner, and there is no better place to be than the #1 international destination for Americans.* Beyond Cancun’s beautiful, pristine beaches, this exotic location stands out with its unique blend of adventure activities, world-class gastronomy, luxury spas and more. Cancun welcomes guests to experience everything from swimming in cenotes to enjoying a traditional temazcal treatment and so much more! Some of Cancun’s best hotels and resorts are offering travel deals, allowing you to enjoy a family vacation or couples’ getaway without breaking the bank.
Some of Cancun’s most tempting Spring deals include:
- From March 1 through April 30, the Escape! Spa Package at CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resortincludes deluxe accommodations in an ocean view room, daily $50 resort credit, daily internet access and one 80-minute massage per stay for only $229- $249 (price depending on room type). With its spectacular beach-front location, the AAA Four Diamond resort is a perfect choice for weekend getaways, family vacations and group events.
- The Radisson Hacienda Hotel in Cancun combines the architectural charm of colonial Mexico with the best modern comforts. This spring, the Radisson is offering guests deals of just $78.00 (+tax) for single or double occupancy rooms, including buffet breakfast and $25 (+tax) for additional guests to share the room. At the Radisson Hacienda Hotel in Cancun, enjoy complimentary shuttle service to the beach, a business center, fitness center and premier customer service.
- Ramada Cancun City hotel near Plaza Las Americas is a great place for spring break or a fun family vacation. This spring, Ramada Cancun City is offering deals of just $60.00 (+tax) for single or double occupancy rooms, including buffet breakfast and $25 (+tax) for additional guests to share the room. Less than a mile from the beach, the Ramada Cancun hotel provides everything you need for an unforgettable Mexico adventure.
- Overlooking the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, luxury and sophistication. This spring break, Sandos is offering specials starting at $191/night for double occupancy room, depending on date of stay.
- The Westin Resort &Spa Cancun invites you to enjoySpring with friends or family withtheAll Inclusive Packagethat includesdeluxe accommodations,all meals,24 hourroom service,well drinks at all restaurants and bars,minibarwith soft drinks, water and beer, use of tennis courtsduring the day andaccessto the gym”WestinWorkout”and free internet in guest rooms. Children stay andeat free, and also enjoy access to WestinKidsClub. All InclusivePackage rates start at $335 per person, per night in double occupancy.
- The Westin Resort & Spa Cancun is also offering guests stayingfor three nights a complimentary fourth night free. Guests will also receive a $100 credit to be used towards food and beverage during their stay, as well as an upgrade when available. Rates start at $159 per night.
When traveling to Cancun, ensure you are enjoying everything the destination has to offer. A day trip to the enchanting Isla Mujeres, just a 20 minute ferry ride away from Cancun, is the perfect escape to a perfectly charming island. Fishing enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a trip to the middle of the ocean for close encounters with sailfish. For scuba divers, the Underwater Museum captivates with more than 400 original sculptures.
From March 15-18, the first-ever Cancun-Riviera Maya Wine & Food Festival will lure foodies with talented chefs from all over the world for one of the most anticipated events of the year.
As the preferred destination attracting approximately 20,000 visitors during spring vacation, Cancun encourages guests to keep in mind the following tips to ensure they have a flawless vacation: keep passports in a safe place; remember to save $23 for the airline departure tax; drive responsibly, and never under the influence of alcohol; life jackets are mandatory in certain water activities such as snorkeling.
To prepare for the thousands of visitors visiting its shores in the coming weeks, Cancun will be increasing security presence in the popular Hotel Zone, and additional lifeguards will be patrolling the beaches to ensure every guest has a safe and memorable vacation.
For more information on Cancun and the treasures of the Caribbean, please visit www.cancun.travel.
The Renaissance Blackstone Hotel is Named to U.S. News & World Report’s List of the ‘Best Hotels in Chicago’
The Renaissance Blackstone Hotel has earned recognition as one of the “2012 Top 10 Best Hotels in Chicago” by U.S. News & WorldReport. The 2012 Best Hotels rankings are available online at http://travel.usnews.com/
The 2012 Best Hotels rankings recognize hotels with a record of high customer satisfaction and an exceptional reputation among published travel experts.
U.S. News established Best Hotels to identify the top properties across the country. To create the 2012 rankings, U.S. News evaluated the strength of accolades and ratings that elite hotels received from major travel publications, as well as travelers, to identify hotels that are loved by experts and consumers alike.
“With well over 1,500 four and five-star hotels in the United States, travelers have a wealth of luxury options,” said Chad Smolinski, Vice President of Rankings and Reviews at U.S. News & World Report. “Our Best Hotels rankings are a great resource for travelers who want to know which hotels are favorites of both the experts and travelers like them.”
The Renaissance Blackstone Hotel is conveniently located next to Grant Park and the Chicago South Loop. A star among Michigan Avenue hotels, the Blackstone offers luxury accommodations, and is the perfect place to embark on explorations of the Magnificent Mile and the city of Chicago. Renowned celebrities such as Katherine Hepburn, Al Capone, and numerous US Presidents have been swayed by the illustrious allure of the Blackstone since 1910. The hotel is housed in an elegantly restored French Beaux-Arts structure, giving an air of grandeur to each of its 328 lush hotel rooms and suites, and the 11,396 square feet of opulent event space. The famed Chicago Art Institute is just three blocks away, and the Field Museum, McCormick Place, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier are mere minutes away. For additional information call 312-447-0955 or visit www.RenaissanceBlackstone.com.
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