Rare winter storm in Bay Area
Updated January 23, via Weather.com: winter storm enzo Snowfall records have been buried along the Gulf Coast from Louisiana to Florida, with five deaths reported. Roads remained closed in Florida and Louisiana as of Thursday morning. Update from Weather.com on January 22: The roof of Mobile's Civic Center collapsed under the weight of the city's historic snowfall; however, the building has since been demolished to make way for the new arena. Mobile received more than 7 inches of snow from the storm, a record for the city. Airport flight delays and cancellations According to FlightAware.com, so far: Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson – 1,036 Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport – 511 Charlotte Douglas – 325 Louis Armstrong New Orleans – 243, all departing flights canceled. Dallas-Fort Worth – 182 A rare winter storm swept across the U.S. Gulf Coast on Tuesday, bringing heavy snow, ice and gusty winds to a region where even light snow is rare. Crews near Houston were clearing highways as…
Rare winter storm in Bay Area
A rare winter storm swept across the U.S. Gulf Coast on Tuesday, bringing heavy snow, ice and gusty winds to a region where even light snow is rare. Crews near Houston were clearing highways as the storm moved east, while downtown streets were blanketed in white and nearly deserted during the morning rush hour. In downtown Houston, few people ventured into the snow as some restaurants and bars remained closed. Houston's subways are still running, but with few riders. Schools were closed Tuesday and Wednesday as the city was expected to receive about four inches of snow. Snow also fell in New Orleans, with up to 8 inches expected by the end of the day, potentially tying the record set in 1895. The last time the city saw measurable snowfall was in 2009, according to the National Weather Service. Weather service. "Stay home and stay off the roads," New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell said in a video message posted on…
New Orleans companies respond to terrorist attacks
Listen to audio After a man plowed his truck into New Year's Eve revelers on New Orleans' Bourbon Street, killing dozens, New Orleans president and CEO Walt Leger III vowed that the spirit of the community "will not Horrified by this horrific act.” The deadly incident that occurred in the early morning hours of January 1, 2025 has been called a terrorist attack and resulted in the postponement of the Sugar Bowl College Football Playoff to Georgia and Notre Dame in one day at Caesars Superdome. Ledger's statement continued: "New Orleans Inc. expresses its deepest condolences to the loved ones and victims of the terrorist attack that occurred in our city early New Year's Day. It was heartwarming to learn the victims' names, see the photos, and hear the victims' stories. It’s heartbreaking. Let’s be clear: Millions of visitors are drawn to New Orleans—and hundreds of thousands of us choose to live and work here—because of the warm people and…
A smart move to visit SLO CAL, Tanzerra Resorts and more
Listen to audio David West David West, Hamilton County Visitors Bureau West serves as president and CEO Hamilton County Tourism Brenda Meyers retired after leading the Hamilton County Visitors Bureau for 19 years. He has over 20 years of experience in the tourism and destination management industry. His major accomplishments include developing the strategic destination plan for Dollywood Parks and Resorts, which brought record visitor numbers, and leading the Pure Michigan initiative during his tenure at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The Hamilton County Tourism Board of Directors nominated him for the position after a thorough review, not only because of his extensive and successful background, but also because of his reputation for energy and creativity in destination marketing. Natalie Placer Natalie Placer, Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences New Orleans Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans Appointed Placer as Marketing Director. She brings more than two decades of experience to her role and has spent the majority…
Discover lasting impressions in New Orleans
For more information, please visit new orleans.com. When it comes to hosting company meetings that stand out, new orleans Be unique. The city's rich history and stunning architecture provide an inspiring backdrop that will captivate your attendees from the moment you arrive. Imagine hosting your event in a beautifully restored historic venue, where the elegance of the past combines with the cutting-edge amenities of the present. New Orleans is more than just a convention destination; This is a cultural experience. The city's world-renowned cuisine and vibrant live entertainment scene offer authentic New Orleans hospitality that's sure to delight your guests. Whether it's a beignet world cafe Or enjoy a private dinner under the oak trees city parkyour attendees will immerse themselves in the local culture, creating memories that last long after the conference is over. For team building and networking, New Orleans offers unique opportunities that go beyond tradition. Get your team involved coastal restoration effortscontribute to protecting Louisiana’s beautiful…
New Orleans, born to host
For more information, please visit new orleans.com. Meeting at new orleans These are not just agendas, they are unforgettable experiences immersed in the city’s vibrant culture and hospitality. Rich in history, innovation and authentic charm, New Orleans provides an inspiring backdrop for unique and productive corporate gatherings. Here, meetings become carefully designed events that leave lasting impressions from the moment attendees arrive at the award-winning conference, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. In New Orleans, everything you need is at your fingertips. This walkable city features world-class restaurants, award-winning hotels for every taste, and LEED Gold Certification New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Centerall located within a 2.5-mile radius and conveniently located. Attendees can easily move between meetings, saving more time by spending less time traveling to meeting locations. Abundant green spaces and unique venues offer endless possibilities for inspiring and meaningful events. From the beautifully restored Grand Ballroom to outdoor experiences among the lush oak trees of City Park,…
Society of Petroleum Engineers annual event celebrates 100th anniversary
NEW ORLEANS – There’s no better place to party than Mardi Gras, where the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition (ATCE) celebrates its 100th anniversary, attracting 4,000 energy attendees from 66 countries Professionals attend. The festivities kicked off with a Mardi Gras-style centennial celebration in the Ernest Morial Convention Center lobby foyer, complete with mimosas and New Orleans pralines and a grand marshal leading a brass band. Mardi Gras revelers greeted guests, took photos and, of course, handed out thousands of beads. The revelry then led to a ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by 2024 SPE President Terry Palisch. Jeff Miller, President and CEO of Halliburton Company; and Simon Seaton, CEO and Executive Vice President of SPE officially kicked off the show, followed by a brass band leading the audience through the exhibit hall. The opening reception featured true New Orleans style, with guests entertained by a "Champagne Duchess" complete with flutes attached to her outfit, as well…
New Orleans Opening
With Hurricane Francine officially behind us, New Orleans wants travel planners and visitors to know that the hospitality industry was largely unaffected and quickly resumed normal operations. As expected, New Orleans experienced some flash flooding and power outages, but according to the latest information, damage to New Orleans' hotel assets was minimal and downtown hotels are fully operational. Airport Update: this Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport São Paulo International Airport (MSY) remains open and operational following the impact of Hurricane Francine. There was no significant damage to the terminal facilities and runway. Airlines are expected to gradually resume operations this morning. While a few flight cancellations remain, most airlines will resume normal operations in the late morning to early afternoon. Passengers with travel plans are advised to check directly with their airline for the latest flight information before heading to the airport. Upcoming Events: New Orleans has a complete Event Schedule There is a slew of events including NOLAxNOLA,…
Built for Hospitality 2.0: New Orleans Gains Momentum
Stephanie Turner, senior vice president of conference sales strategy for the New Orleans-based company, details the latest developments and things to watch out for. New Orleans Company Formation Designed for hosting Several years ago, we began educating planners about what Crescent City has to offer groups and how its team of professionals can help through seamless, one-stop meeting and incentive planning services. “New Orleans & Company takes the time to understand our clients and align with their goals, which creates a valuable partnership,” said Stephanie Turner, senior vice president of meeting sales strategy. “From venue selection to the final attendee departure, we stay connected with our clients every step of the way to ensure success. We offer free planning services, marketing tools and attendance-boosting resources, and connect organizations with volunteer opportunities that reflect their values.” Prevost recently caught up with Turner to get the inside scoop on Built to Host and NOLA. Previous article: What are the most significant changes…
New & Renovated: Chasing the Sun
Explore the Endless Summer from East to West What do New Orleans, San Antonio, and San Diego have in common? Not much—they’re all very different cities—but beyond their uniqueness, they’re all sunny. With summer drawing to a close, your attendees are looking for one last chance to soak up some sun. And with these newly built and renovated hotels, all signs point to yes (please!). A piece of New Orleans music history Evangeline meeting room at Kimpton Hotel Fontenot; Photo credit: Cris Molina Newly opened Kimpton Hotel Fontenot Located in New Orleans' sought-after Central Business District, just steps from the French Quarter and the Ernest M. Morial Convention Center New Orleans. Guests enter the 235-room boutique hotel through an elegant, understated lobby with white oak floors and dark accents, while the opulent Peacock Room offers a vibrant, alternative atmosphere with punchy cocktails. The hotel's new restaurant, King Brasserie and Bar, serves Mediterranean-French fusion cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. Following…
Smart moves in New Orleans, San Antonio, and more
Listen to Audio Dustin Dent Dustin Dent, Nemacolin Pennsylvania Luxury Resorts Nemacolin Appointed Dent as Managing Director. He will be responsible for overseeing all operations and strategic initiatives while continuing to work to enhance the resort’s guest experience. Dent joined Nemacolin in August 2023 and, through his visionary leadership, as Vice President of Development, he has been instrumental in establishing the resort as a luxury destination, overseeing the successful opening of several key venues within the resort. Pierre Mogren Pierre Mogren, Barriere Group Barrier Group Appoints Moglen as Director of Sales for North America. He has a highly successful career in the luxury hospitality industry, having held a number of positions across brands, most recently as Cluster Sales Manager for the Rosewood European Collection in New York. With this experience, Moglen is well-positioned to expand the brand’s presence in North America and its strategic positioning in the North American market. Laura Jarvinen Laura Jarvinen, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas Jarvinen joins…
Brennan’s Hospitality in New Orleans: Making Friends
Listen to Audio Restaurant groups offer lessons in setting standards for quality, culture and service Steve Petters According to the Brennan philosophy of world-class New Orleans restaurants, true hospitality begins with making friends. Culinary matriarch Miss Ella and her siblings Dorothy ("Dottie"), Dick and John Brennan understood this when they took over the Garden District landmark Commander's Palace in 1974. The stately museum-like space, once home to chefs Paul Prudhomme and Emeril Lagasse, is still run by Brennan family members Claire "Lally" Brennan and Ti Adelaide Martin. In 1991, Dickie's son and sister founded the eponymous Dickie Brennan & Company, preserving this key element of hospitality. Now, the family is expanding on that vision with its fifth restaurant. We spoke with managing partner Steve Petters, who works with Dick and Lauren Brennan Blauer, about the distinctive approach to serving locals and visitors at Palace Cafe, Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse, Dickie Brennan's Bourbon House, Tableau, and now Pascal's Manale. Friendship Zone “Dick…