• December 1, 2004
• in Uncategorized

AdventGXtra
AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members.

:: Initiatives    :. Mexico Tourism Board    :. Identifying Potential Showcase Communities    :. US/Mexico Travel and Tourism Data Improvement Initiative :: Projects    :. Coach Connect Launches First WiFi Enabled Rest Area in Texas    :. Texas Education Vacation Strategy Deployment Workshop    :. World Class Reservation System Deployed :: Team News    :. Andy Skadberg and Travis Nance Join AGX Full Time    :. Dr. Rick Giardino Joins Board of Directors    :. New Executive Advisory Board Members Initiatives Mexico Tourism Board AdventGX is in discussion with the Mexico Tourism Board about possible collaboration with AdventGX to support Mexico’s recently restructured tourism development model. A number of meetings are scheduled for the coming months to discuss possible engagements and determine plans for moving forward. Identifying Potential Showcase Communities We continue to identify possible showcase communities for the AdventGX tourism development model. Among the emerging possibilities are Brownsville, TX; Marshall, TX; Uvalde, TX; Van Horn, TX; Parral Chihuahua; and Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. US/Mexico Travel and Tourism Data Improvement Initiative AdventGX was invited to participate in the US/Mexico Travel and Tourism Data Improvement Initiative at the beginning of August. Dr. Joe O’Leary, head of Texas A&M’s department of Recreation, Parks & Tourism Sciences, hosted the event aimed at identifying and resolving data gaps in travel and tourism flows between the U.S. and Mexico. A select number of participants attended, including Helen N. Marano, director, Office of Travel and Tourism Industries, International Trade Administration – U.S. Department of Commerce. Mr. Jose Casa, General Director of Information and Analysis for SECTUR, headed the group of Mexican officials. AdventGX was fortunate to be the only private sector participant. Projects Coach Connect Launches First WiFi Enabled Rest Area in Texas On November 29, Coach Connect officially launched the Road Connect program, offering WiFi at the Medina County Safety Rest area near San Antonio. Medina County is the first of more than 100 safety rest areas throughout Texas that Coach Connect will equip with WiFi Internet capability under contract with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Coach Connect’s experience with WiFi installation, and AdventGX online information technology tools combined for a winning project that will leverage wireless internet to provide traveler information, and local community tourism promotion to highway travelers. This new offering from Coach Connect, called Road Connect, is an exciting public private partnership debuting in Texas, and other states are already expressing interest in similar programs. During the coming weeks, AdventGX and Coach Connect will focus on procuring sponsors to offset the costs of the wireless installations and information systems. Texas Education Vacation Strategy Deployment Workshop September 23-24 AdventGX hosted the AdventGX Strategy Deployment workshop for the Texas Education Vacation program. Partially Funded by the Texas Education Agency, and commissioned by the Texas Travel Industry Association (TTIA), Texas Education Vacation will establish a central clearinghouse of educational venues in Texas and make them available to children and their families as they travel the state of Texas. The program will involve development of venues, web portals, searchable databases and much more. The workshop proved very fruitful, as participants established a complete matrix of project stakeholders and tasks and set priorities for moving forward. Carson Watt, Andy Skadberg and Jose Quintana participated in the workshop along with TTIA’s Paul Serff, Erin Kerley and David Teel. World Class Reservation System Deployed AdventGX recently developed and deployed the top online RV registration management and point of sale system in the nation. This new Coach Connect product was first installed at Palm Creek Golf and RV Resort in Casa Grande, AZ. Palm Creek currently boasts 2,000 sites, and will have 2,500 by year’s end, making it the largest resort of its kind in the world. Interest in the reservation system has been tremendous, putting AGX on track to deploy a customized version of the system at five sites for Coach Connect’s premier client Diversified Investments by the end of January 2005. Team News Andy Skadberg and Travis Nance Join AGX Full Time Andy Skadberg came on board full time on November 1st as Chief Knowledge Officer. He comes to AdventGX from Texas A&M University’s Recreation, Park & Tourism Sciences Department, where he remains an adjunct faculty member. In the department he worked to expand and develop nature tourism resources and leverage the Web as a program delivery tool. In his role as Chief Knowledge Officer, Andy will oversee a number of projects, including our Road Connect effort with Coach Connect, the Texas Education Vacation program and other emerging initiatives.Travis Nance also recently joined the AGX team as Director, Special Projects Division. Prior to joining AdventGX he was a Corporate Recruiter and liaison to Texas A&M University for Universal Computer Systems. He has also worked with Westcar Consulting Group and with Texas A&M’s 12th Man Foundation. As Director of Special Projects, Travis will help guide fundraising, marketing, prospecting and business development initiatives. Dr. Rick Giardino Joins Board of Directors Texas A&M University’s Dean of Graduate Studies Dr. Rick Giardino recently joined the Board of Directors. Dr. Giardino is also the founder of Camp Planet Earth®, an academic outward bound-type of environmental camp for middle and junior high minority students. His professional career has focused on studying the changing surface of Earth through extensive field work and the use of satellite imagery and GIS. His experiences range from the Canadian and European arctic to the tropical regions of Latin America, Africa and Southeast Asia and the arid regions of the Middle East. Through his research he has been involved in the search for Columbus’s caravels in Jamaica, studies of rainforest deforestation in Sumatra, and sustainability of national parks in Africa. New Executive Advisory Board Members Craig Tutor of Oregon Travel Information Counsel, Patrick McMillan of Toxey/McMillan Design Associates, Linda Smarzik of Austin Community College Craig Tutor of Oregon Travel Information Counsel Patrick McMillan of Toxey/McMillan Design Associates Linda Smarzik of Austin Community College Patrick McMillan of Toxey/McMillan Design Associates Linda Smarzik of Austin Community College

January 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. January 2005 :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Texas Education Vacation Web Portal Demonstrated to TTIA    :. AdventGX to attend Unity Dinner, Showcase Projects :: Projects    :. AdventGX Develops Rediscover Texas Online Media Kit    :. AdventGX.com Enhancements Now Online    :. Coach Connect Reservation System Winning Praise    :. Lauren and Erin Wyatt Helping Launch Travel Showcase :: Team News    :. New EAB Members    :. Joan Tatge Launches Communications Services Division Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Texas Education Vacation Web Portal Demonstrated to TTIA Dr. Skadberg recently traveled to McAllen, TX to demonstrate the Texas Education Vacation web portal to the Texas Travel Industry Association (TTIA) Board of Directors. Shortly thereafter TTIA presented the project in Fort Worth, inviting the community associated with TTIA Board Chair Elect Dr. Douglas Harmon to showcase their educational venues. AdventGX to attend Unity Dinner, Showcase Projects On February 14, the AdventGX team will be in Austin attending the Unity Dinner and showcasing the Rediscover Texas and Texas Education Vacation projects. “For the Love of Texas,” the annual Unity Dinner is an opportunity for the Texas travel industry to demonstrate to legislators the importance, contribution and impact of the industry. Many legislators are expected to attend, including Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst. At the event, AdventGX will present an upgraded Rediscover Texas Campaign and celebrate the official unveiling of the Texas Education Vacation project. Projects AdventGX Develops Rediscover Texas Online Media Kit AdventGX recently completed the online media kit to promote the Texas Tourism Industry Association’s (TTIA) Rediscover Texas Campaign. As part of the campaign, TTIA has partnered with Clear Channel to offer TTIA members exclusive discounted advertising rates. The goal of Rediscover Texas is to raise awareness of the numerous travel opportunities within the state while showcasing Texas destinations. The campaign will run April 1 – May 15, 2005 and will include Public Service Announcements and giveaways on all Clear Channel stations. AdventGX recently launched the site which can be viewed at http://www.rediscovertexas.org/mediakit. AdventGX.com Enhancements Now Online AdventGX recently launched the new, enhanced AdventGX.com. Log on to see fresh content including this monthly newsletter, new additions to the AdventGX team and more. Please visit the site at www.AdventGX.com and let us know if you have any comments or recommendations for improvements. Coach Connect Reservation System Winning Praise In December we announced the deployment of Coach Connect’s world class reservation system at Palm Creek Resort. Since then the AdventGX developed reservation system has been gaining notoriety. Coach Connect’s premier client, Diversified Investments (DI), has added an additional eight sites to the original order for five customized reservation systems, bringing the total number ordered to thirteen. Lauren and Erin Wyatt Helping Launch Travel Showcase Erin and Lauren Wyatt (daughters of the esteemed Dr. Wyatt, CEO of Food Horizon) traveled to Texas from California this month to help create a new virtual travel journal for AdventGX. Dr. Skadberg hosted the talented duo as they toured educational venues in College Station and Austin, documenting each stop along the way. Erin and Lauren bring fresh creativity and insightful perspective that is certain to result in an engaging new product. Watch for an upcoming showcase of this exciting new online experience. Team News New EAB Members Chris Brown, Homeland Security Technologies, Inc. Sandra Duran, Representing City of Matamoras Warren Evans, Texas A&M University Nancy Millar, McAllen Convention and Visitors Bureau Rosie Saenz-Zambrano, Texas A&M University Joan Tatge Launches Communications Services Division AdventGX is now offering comprehensive marketing communications services. Our newest member of the executive team, Joan Tatge is directing the Communications Services Division, supporting in-house and contract marketing communications, business development, public relations and proposal development. Joan Tatge brings to AGX broad communications experience, including technical communications and marketing of advanced and emerging technologies, government and nonprofit communications and higher education media initiatives. An accomplished grant writer, she has served as project manager and business developer for large federal technology research programs and has provided consulting services particularly focusing on SBIR grants. Before joining AdventGX, Joan was Director of Communications for The Association of Former Students of Texas A&M University, where she was also editor of Texas Aggie magazine. February 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. February 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. Van Horn Project to Kick Off Soon    :. X-Bar Ranch Featured in Texas Highways    :. Lauren and Erin’s Travel Adventures Now Online    :. Travel By Road International Summit Coming Soon :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Texas Education Vacation, Rediscover Texas Featured at TTIA’s Unity Dinner    :. Skadberg, Meador Participates in A&M’s Nature Tourism Banner Program AdventGX News Van Horn Project to Kick Off Soon The Van Horn Economic Development Corporation recently informed AdventGX of plans to contract for our economic and tourism development services in support of the Far West Texas region. AdventGX will develop a comprehensive master plan for Van Horn, Texas involving the merging of numerous past planning studies, innovative concepts and existing initiatives. Once contract documents are formalized, the project is expected to kick off quickly with the first ASD workshop expected to take place in March. X-Bar Ranch Featured in Texas Highways EAB member Stan Meador’s X-Bar Ranch is featured in the February 2005 edition of Texas Highways magazine. The four-page feature presents beautiful photos of the 7,100 acre ranch that beckons ecotourists, hikers, mountain bikers and star gazers to make an escape from the ordinary. Lauren and Erin’s Travel Adventures Now Online Municipalities and attractions now have a new online promotion tool that captures travel experiences in an engaging virtual travel journal. Lauren and Erin’s Travel Adventures combine the Wyatt sisters’ creative zeal and fun loving perspective in an entertaining and insightful web site that is sure to draw attention online as a powerful promotional tool.The College Station Adventure features stops at the George Bush Presidential Library, the Children’s Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Corps of Cadets Museum. The virtual journal of Austin features the Capital Building, Texas History Museum, Zilker Park and the Nature and Science Center. Check it out online at: http://www.adventgx.com/laurenwyatt/. Travel By Road International Summit Coming Soon AdventGX will host the first Travel By Road International Summit in College Station later this year. The conference will focus on issues and opportunities facing industries serving business and leisure travelers. Watch for more information on this exciting upcoming international event brought to you by AdventGX. Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Texas Education Vacation, Rediscover Texas Featured at TTIA’s Unity Dinner Chief Knowledge Officer Dr. Andy Skadberg presented the Texas Education Vacation and Rediscover Texas programs as part of the Texas Travel Industry Association’s Unity Dinner program. AdventGX developed the Texas Education Vacation program on behalf of TTIA and the program was formally announced during the dinner which was attended by some 1,100 representatives of the travel industry in Texas. AdventGX also developed the online media kit for the Rediscover Texas campaign, enabling participants to browse media buying options and make advertising reservations online. Skadberg, Meador Participates in A&M’s Nature Tourism Banner Program AdventGX EAB member Stan Meador hosted and Chief Knowledge Officer Andy Skadberg participated in the first of a series of workshops that are rolling out under the Texas Cooperative Extension’s Nature Tourism Banner Program. The first workshop was held in Eldorado, Texas and was attended by representatives from Texas Farm Bureau, small business land owners and a large ranch owned by Riata Energies. Guiding business owner Pete Szilagyi (writer for the Austin American Statesman), and Jeff McCoy with the Van Horn EDC also participated. Board member Dr. Carson Watt has provided guidance to the Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences Dept. for developing the program and future collaborations with AdventGX. March 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. March 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. AdventGX to Manage Texas Governor’s Tourism Ad Tracking System    :. AdventGX Establishes Partnership with StarVision Technologies    :. Team Makes Scouting Visit to Van Horn :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Skadberg Invited to Speak at Iowa Tourism Conference    :. Team Members Participate in Border Governor’s Conference    :. Andy Skadberg Speaks to Texas Association of Museums AdventGX News AdventGX to Manage Texas Governor’s Tourism Ad Tracking System AdventGX was recently awarded the contract to maintain the Texas Advertisement Tracking Database and Reporting System for the Office of the Governor, Economic Development & Tourism. AdventGX will design, build, host and administer the database, provide a web-based user interface, conduct market analysis and report findings. This high profile project solidifies AdventGX’s position as a lead provider of tourism technology products and support in Texas and will serve as a springboard to similar opportunities throughout the U.S. and internationally. &nbps; AdventGX Establishes Partnership with StarVision Technologies AdventGX recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with StarVision Technologies, a College Station based high tech start-up that is producing intelligent vision technologies with broad application to the tourism industry. StarVision and AdventGX have agreed to jointly engage in the development of novel technologies in the areas of Visitor Characterization & Metrics, Visitor Origin, Special Events, crowd flow analysis at special events, visitation measuring and facilities usage metrics, and Space tourism. Team Makes Scouting Visit to Van Horn Jose Quintana, Andy Skadberg and Joan Tatge traveled to Van Horn, Texas for a scouting trip in anticipation of the upcoming workshops that will formally launch our Van Horn Economic Development project. The team enjoyed the hospitality of Economic Development Corporation CEO Jeff McCoy who shared valuable insights into the project. Van Horn is nestled in a beautiful far-West Texas valley. The town has a rich history and beautiful natural resources.   Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Skadberg Invited to Speak at Iowa Tourism Conference Andy Skadberg has been invited by the Iowa Department of Economic Development to speak at their October conference. Andy will present on “Successful Community Tourism Development” in two break-out sessions during the conference on October 24th. Team Members Participate in Border Governor’s Conference AdventGX team members participated in the 2005 Border Governor’s Conference on March 15. Executive Advisory Board member Rosy Saenz-Padilla hosted the Mexican delegates attending the conference, while Andy Skadberg and Joan Tatge both participated in the one day event. The team made great contacts with representatives of Mexican border states and will be following up on prospective relationships. Andy Skadberg Speaks to Texas Association of Museums Andy Skadberg was one of three panelists who addressed participants at the annual meeting of the Texas Association of Museums on March 30th in Dallas. The panel discussed the Texas Commission on the Arts’ new statewide Craft Initiative designed to support cultural tourism and economic development opportunities for rural communities and the artisans. Andy was joined on the discussion panel by Jim Bob McMillan, Director of Administration and Community Development, Texas Commission on the Arts, and Janie Headrick, State Coordinator, Texas Trails Program, Texas Historical Commission. The panel was chaired by Ann Lancaster, Executive Director, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft. April 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. April 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. Rediscover Texas Campaign in Full Swing    :. Van Horn Workshops Kick off Economic Development Project    :. AdventGX Hosts Chihuahua Secretary of Commerce and Tourism :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Skadberg, Tatge Present Texas Education Vacation to B/CS CVB    :. Meador Presents at ANGADI Conference in Nuevo Laredo    :. Skadberg, Ebel Visit Iowa Landowner, Evaluate Tourism Opportunities    :. Skadberg and Tutor to Attend Mobile Showcase in California AdventGX News Rediscover Texas Campaign in Full Swing The 2005 Rediscover Texas campaign is well underway – the campaign started April 1st and will close on May 15, 2005. Registrants from all over the world have signed up for the Texas sized sweepstakes for seven weekend getaways that stretch across Texas. If you haven’t entered the sweepstakes, be sure to register at www.rediscovertexas.org.AdventGX developed the Rediscover Texas online sweepstakes as well as the online media kit promoting special advertising opportunities in honor of Tourism Week. AdventGX is tracking the registrations, survey results and web-analytics collected via the sweepstakes registration process on behalf of the Texas Travel Industry Association. Early data supports the growing importance of online promotion by the tourism Industry. Last year over 40% of registrations were generated from web references (search engines, eNews articles, affiliates) making it the largest source of registrations (over TV, Radio, Print and Bill Board sources). Van Horn Workshops Kick off Economic Development Project Six AdventGX team members traveled to Van Horn, Texas April 10-12 to participate in a series of workshops with Van Horn community members. During the workshops participants shared their dreams and aspirations for Van Horn and identified keys issues they want to address through the economic development initiative.Based on participant’s comments and a follow-up survey, the AdventGX team will devise a comprehensive strategy for moving forward with the effort. The strategy will prioritize community projects and provide estimated levels of effort to the Van Horn Economic Development Corporation (EDC). Upon delivery of the strategy, and approval by the EDC, the project will move into the implementation phase wherein AdventGX will support Van Horn with individual projects and fundraising. AdventGX Hosts Chihuahua Secretary of Commerce and Tourism On April 18, AdventGX had the honor of hosting Hector Valles, Secretary of Commercial and Tourism Development for the State of Chihuahua, Mexico, and Dr. Raul Favela, International Services, Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua. During their visit, the Secretary presented his vision for commercial and tourism development in the State of Chihuahua and shared a beautiful slideshow about the state’s abundant natural assets. In turn, Dr. Andy Skadberg and Jose Quintana presented the AdventGX approach to tourism development. As a result of the meetings, AdventGX is submitting a proposal to the Secretary for a comprehensive commercial and economic development effort.     Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Skadberg, Tatge Present Texas Education Vacation to B/CS CVB Mr. Barry Bigger, President and CEO of the Bryan-College Station Convention and Visitors Bureau, invited AdventGX to present Texas Education Vacation to the CVB’s board of directors in late March. Dr. Andy Skadberg and Joan Tatge provided an introduction to AdventGX and demonstrated both Texas Education Vacation and Lauren and Erin’s Travel Adventures to participants. Both online promotional tools were well received by the BCSCVB board. Meador Presents at ANGADI Conference in Nuevo Laredo Executive Advisory Board Member Stan Meador gave a presentation at the annual conference of the Asociacisn Nacionalde Ganaderos Diversificados (National Diversified Wildlife Breeders Association) on April16th in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Meador discussed opportunities to further develop existing hunting opportunities and to diversify into other non-consumptive nature tourism enterprises. Stan’s presentation included the AdventGX approach to tourism development and was mentioned in local news coverage of the event. Skadberg, Ebel Visit Iowa Landowner, Evaluate Tourism Opportunities Dan Wells of the famous Wells Blue Bunny ice cream invited Andy Skadberg and Executive Advisory Board Member Gary Ebel to visit his ranch located in Northwest Iowa to evaluate nature tourism opportunities. Well’s “Hole ‘n the Wall” ranch currently provides great hunting opportunities, and Dan hopes to expand the operation to include very high end executive hunts and potentially an executive retreat center. Andy spent April 29th touring the ranch, conducting an inventory of resources and learning about Dan’s aspirations for his property. AdventGX is using this information to make recommendations about next-steps for developing the property to fulfill Dan’s goals and objectives. Skadberg and Tutor to Attend Mobile Showcase in California Craig Tutor, AdventGX Executive Advisory Board Member, and Andy Skadberg will attend Mobile Showcase – an upcoming conference being held May 9-11, 2005 in Indian Wells, California. The conference allows enterprise IT decision makers to see the latest and greatest mobile computing and wireless data communications products and services live on stage. In two short days, more than 40 companies will demonstrate their mobile and wireless products and services, providing Andy and Craig with an excellent preview of technologies with potential application to AdventGX tourism products. May 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. May 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. Former Google Executive Joins AdventGX Team    :. AdventGX Conducts First Jr. Internship Program :: Projects    :. Rediscover Texas Campaign Ends June 12    :. Texas Education Vacation Released During Tourism Week AdventGX News Former Google Executive Joins AdventGX Team AdventGX is proud to welcome Casey Jensen to our team as Vice President for Business Development. Casey has more than 10 years of experience in Internet marketing and advertising. During his three years with Google he helped develop the next generation of media sales. Casey worked with clients such as Hewlett Packard, Wyndham, La Quinta, CompUSA, Kenneth Cole, Fossil and National Instruments, creating new distribution models with search advertising that revolutionized their ROI. Prior to working with Google, Casey managed the online media sales for 170 websites and more than 200 e-newsletters for Meckler Media. Casey began his professional career as an ad agency account manager working with such brands as Apple, Coors, Sun Microsystems, IBM, Fannie Mae and Paramount Pictures. AdventGX Conducts First Jr. Internship Program Three College Station ISD students were selected for AdventGX’s first junior internship program, wherein a team of high school students are given a development project to work on over the summer. The experience affords the students an opportunity to gain hands on experience working on a professional project and gaining exposure to the tourism industry. This year, the student team has been assigned the task of developing the model for a high end laser tag attraction. The students, Max Sera, Jose Juan Quintana and Felipito Zambrano, will conduct the market research, product development and branding for the attraction. Projects Rediscover Texas Campaign Ends June 12 There is still time to register to win a weekend getaway to a great Texas destination as part of the Texas Travel Industry Association’s Rediscover Texas Campaign. AdventGX developed the online sweepstakes and survey on behalf of TTIA. The campaign was developed to raise awareness of the great travel destinations across Texas and provides tourism operators a chance to take part in a statewide promotional campaign. To register to win a weekend getaway, be sure to log on to www.rediscovertexas.org before June 12. Texas Education Vacation Released During Tourism Week The Texas Travel Industry Association released Texas Education Vacation on May 7 as part of Tourism Week. AdventGX developed the online resource for parents and teachers seeking engaging educational vacations. The product is a collaborative effort of the Texas Education Agency, TTIA and the Office of the Governor. Look for a full-page write-up by Dr. Andy Skadberg about TEV in the June issue of the “Texas Explorer” the monthly newsletter for TTIA. June 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. June 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. AdventGX Signs MOU with NASA Mid-Continent Technology Transfer Center    :. Bohac Joins AdventGX Executive Advisory Board    :. AdventGX Joins Texas A&M for Visit to Ellison’s Greenhouses in Brenham    :. AdventGX Hosts Mexican Delegation From Parral, Chihuahua :: Projects    :. Texas Education Vacation Featured in TTIA Newsletter    :. Van Horn EDC Authorizes Phase II of Economic Development Initiative AdventGX News AdventGX Signs MOU with NASA Mid-Continent Technology Transfer Center AdventGX recently entered into an agreement with the NASA Mid-Continent Technology Transfer Center of the Texas Engineering Extension Service to work jointly in the area of economic development for the benefit of Texas communities. As part of the agreement, the two entities will pursue joint projects, develop and deliver a tourism module for the Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC), and develop co-branded marketing materials that will illustrate both partners’ capabilities to support economic and tourism development and leverage emerging opportunities in space tourism. Bohac Joins AdventGX Executive Advisory Board AdventGX is proud to welcome Jennifer Bohac to our Executive Advisory Board. Jennifer is the Director of the Traveling Aggies program, the travel program for former students of Texas A&M Univerisity. During her four years with The Association of Former Students, one of the largest and most respected alumni associations in the world, Jennifer more than doubled the size of the Traveling Aggies program. Today, Traveling Aggies is among the most successful travel programs of its kind. As Director, Jennifer travels extensively and has become a noted expert in hospitality and creating unique travel experiences. AdventGX Joins Texas A&M for Visit to Ellison’s Greenhouses in Brenham Jose Quintana and Joan Tatge recently joined Dr. Joseph O’Leary, Head of Texas A&M University’s Department of Recreation Parks and Tourism Sciences, and Paul Serff, President of the Texas Travel Industry Association, on a visit to Ellison’s Greenhouses in Brenham, Texas. PJ Ellison treated the group to a tour of the greenhouses and shared her vision for developing experiential tourism opportunities in the area. Click here to see a picture of the group with P.J. in Ellison’s new retail area. AdventGX Hosts Mexican Delegation From Parral, Chihuahua AdventGX recently hosted a delegation of representatives from Parral, Chihuahua during their visit to College Station. The group participated in a series of meetings and tours, including stops at the Texas World Speedway and the George Bush Presidential Library, lunch with representatives of Texas A&M University and dinner with the Mayor of the City of Bryan, Ernie Wentrcek and City Manager Mary Kaye Moore. The delegation included Jesus Flores Olivas, Suplente de Presidente Municipal; Miquel Primo Armendariz Sonza, Director de Atencion Ciudana; Jesus Hernandez Arce, Economic Research Center Coordinator for Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua; Raul Soto Contreras, Director de Desarrolla Economico and Ignacio Paez Arras, Desarrollo Economico. The group made the trip to College Station to share information about their economic and tourism development efforts and learn how AdventGX can support the initiative. Click here to see pictures from the visit. Projects Texas Education Vacation Featured in TTIA Newsletter An article by Dr. Andy Skadberg about Texas Education Vacation (TEV) is featured in the June edition of “The Texas Explorer,” the Texas Travel Industry Association’s monthly newsletter. In the article, Dr. Skadberg provides insight into the importance of TEV as a tool for parents and educators seeking meaningful travel experiences for their children. The full-page article also summarizes criteria for attractions included in the searchable web-based database of educational travel opportunities. To learn more about TEV, log on to www.TexasEducationVacation.com. Van Horn EDC Authorizes Phase II of Economic Development Initiative Dr. Andy Skadberg, Jose Quintana and Joan Tatge traveled to Van Horn during June to formally present the final report for Phase I of the Van Horn Economic Development Initiative. Following the presentation, the Van Horn EDC Board of Directors authroized Phase II of the project. During their week-long visit to Van Horn, the team had the opportunity to experience youth rodeo, visit with entrepreneurs leading local business start-ups and make visits to nearby West Texas regional attractions. Click here to see pictures from the week in Van Horn. July 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. July 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. AdventGX Spin-Off Offers Premier Reservation Solution    :. AdventGX Sponsors Team16 Racing :: Projects    :. AdventGX Commissions Artist to Create Original Van Horn Art :: Team News    :. Stan Meador Joins AGX as Director of Nature Tourism Development AdventGX News AdventGX Spin-Off Offers Premier Reservation Solution AdventGX recently launched Reservation Management Solutions, Inc., to market it’s premier reservation and property management software to high-end/high-volume properties in the resort industry. Reservation Management Solutions, Inc. is ideally positioned to revolutionize reservation and property management with its Vestivo line of custom and off-the-shelf reservation and property management products. To learn more about RMS or the Vestivo product offerings, contact Travis Nance at travisnance@adventgx.com. AdventGX Sponsors Team16 Racing AdventGX recently developed and launched a web site to showcase two of racing’s top young talents, Brad Coleman & Colin Braun. Brad and Colin were part of a World Record setting team in February when the 16 year-olds raced in and completed the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, North America’s most renowned and challenging endurance road race. The talented youngsters garnered a Top 10 finish (7th) at the famed Daytona International Speedway, earning the respect of many of the best professional NASCAR, IRL, and Sports Car drivers in the world. Be sure to check out the web site and follow these two incredible young men on their exciting journey: www.team16.info Projects AdventGX Commissions Artist to Create Original Van Horn Art As part of the ongoing Van Horn Economic Development Initiative, AdventGX has commissioned Ricardo Solar to creating paintings of Van Horn’s beautiful landscapes as well as the buildings, events and people that characterize the unique spirit of Van Horn, Texas. The paintings and drawings will be featured in local Van Horn businesses and sold on a consignment basis. Click here to see samples of some of the early pencil drawings by Ricardo Solar. Team News Stan Meador Joins AGX as Director of Nature Tourism Development Executive Advisory Board Member Stan Meador has agreed to join the AdventGX team as our new Director of Nature Tourism Development. In this capacity, Stan will share his insights and expertise in nature tourism through professional services, consulting engagements, articles and speaking engagements. In addition, Stan will serve as lead advisor to the development of AGX’s premier product offering, JourneyBuilder.com. Stan is the founder and general manager of the recreational division (X-Bar Ranch) for his family’s five-generation ranch near Eldorado, Texas. August 1, 2005 in Uncategorized AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. August 2005 :: Projects    :. Skadberg Visits Washington D.C., Promotes Rural Economic Development    :. Quintana and Tatge Visit Van Horn :: Team News    :. Amy Williams Joins AGX, Launches Reservation Management Solutions, Inc.    :. Brad Cunningham Joins AGX, Brings New Internet Technology    :. Rosa Elena Saenz Offers Invocation and Benediction at Texas A&M Commencement Projects Skadberg Visits Washington D.C., Promotes Rural Economic Development Dr. Andy Skadberg recently traveled to Washington D.C. to promote rural economic development and inform legislators and government program directors about the AdventGX approach to economic and tourism development for our nation’s rural places. Andy showcased the AGX model for rural economic development using the Van Horn, Texas Economic Development Initiative as a case study. With the help of Jim Maetzold of USDA, Andy was able to meet with several program leaders of the USDA and Forest Services, which will be helpful to AdventGX’s programs supporting rural communities across the nation. In all, Andy met with four legislators (or their representatives) and 7 program leaders. He was also able to take a tour that focused on agritourism in the region. The trip assisted AdventGX in building relationships with business leaders and Congressmen from around the country, and built awareness of AdventGX and its services. Quintana and Tatge Visit Van Horn Jose Quintana and Joan Tatge experienced the full family vacation atmosphere when they took their own families to Van Horn July 26 through August 3. Besides working on the economic development project for Van Horn they also got to help put trash cans out on Main Street, hike through the Texas Mountain region, and watch the Movie on the Wall – a summer fun event for the Van Horn community. Team News Amy Williams Joins AGX, Launches Reservation Management Solutions, Inc. Amy Williams recently joined AdventGX as Director of our new Reservation Management Solutions Division, bringing some 12 years experience working in real estate management and investment. In 1993, Amy was hired by Trust Property Management which owned and managed 130 multi-family properties across the United States, Amy assisted with property acquisitions, on-site training, income reporting, and property audits. Moving to the The Arkad Group in 2000 as the Director of Property Operations, she was involved with property rehabilitation, and oversight of property operations, policies and personnel. In 2002, Amy joined Diversified Investments, a real estate investment company specializing in RV resorts to manage their training and software support departments. During her career at DI, Amy implemented new reservation software and wireless Internet solutions on the properties. Amy is Director of Reservation Management Solutions, Inc., bringing the Vestivo line of premier reservation and property management solutions to high-end resorts, casinos and cruise lines throughout the U.S. and internationally. Brad Cunningham Joins AGX, Brings New Internet Technology Brad Cunningham, a lifelong entrepreneur and web-based application developer, recently joined the AdventGX team and will head up the implementation of the new technology community networking software. Having tested under the names “VipZip” and “Powervox,” the new software will be integrated into some of AdventGX’s existing products including JourneyBuilder and TrueJourney. Brad has extensive experience in web-based application design and enterprise system implementation. Prior to joining AdventGX, he served as Director of Internet Systems and Information Technology for American Lightwave Communications, a Houston telecommunications company. He also founded Proactive Intelligence, a company specializing in the Internet education-to-consumer market, and served as Manager and Senior Technical Consultant for Insource Technology. After graduating from Emporia State University, in Emporia Kansas, Brad served in the United States Navy, and then taught computer science and webmastering for the Katy, Texas Independent School District. Rosa Elena Saenz Offers Invocation and Benediction at Texas A&M Commencement AdventGX Executive Advisory Board member Rosa Elena Saenz became the first international student in A&M’s history to provide the invocation and benediction at Texas A&M’s graduation ceremony in August. The ceremony took place August 12, 2005 in College Station, Texas. Ms. Saenz is currently the President of the Mexican Student Association at Texas A&M University and a graduate student in the Department of Hispanic Studies. September 1, 2005 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. September 2005 :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. AdventGX Team Participates in Luncheon on Emerging Tech Fund    :. AdventGX Team Visits Sandia Labs, New Mexico :: Projects    :. AdventGX Launches Vestivo.com for Reservation Management Solutions, Inc.    :. AGX Plans Art Seminar, Show and Sale for Texas Mountain Region Meetings/Presentations/Workshops AdventGX Team Participates in Luncheon on Emerging Tech Fund AdventGX was well represented at the September 20 luncheon of the Research Valley Technology Alliance. During the event, Mr. Phil Wilson, Deputy Chief of Staff for Governor Rick Perry, discussed the newly signed House Bill 1765, which created the $200 million Texas Emerging Technology Fund. AdventGX team members Jose Quintana, Ron Robinson, Andy Skadberg, Travis Nance, Joan Tatge and Kelley Stewart hosted Van Horn Economic Development Director Jeff McCoy, along with Texas A&M Recreation Parks and Tourism Sciences Department Head Joseph O’Leary, MRI Technologies Vice President Tim Kropp and Robert Toker, Consul, Head of Trade & Investment for the UK Trade & Investment with the British Consulate-General, Houston. During the luncheon, AdventGX team members and guests learned about the goals of the Emerging Technology Fund and how it can support economic development throughout Texas. AdventGX Team Visits Sandia Labs, New Mexico Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge and Van Horn Economic Development Director Jeff McCoy participated in the Texas Lyceum Association’s recent meeting in Santa Fe, New Mexico. September 15-18, the team met with New Mexico leadership to discuss common issues facing Texas and New Mexico and visited Sandia National Laboratories. The team learned about the upcoming X-Prize competition, being held in Las Crueses, New Mexico. New Mexico has allocated $9 million to develop the infrastructure, launch and landing facilities necessary to host and market the competition and related events throughout the state, and to prepare the Southwest Regional Spaceport in Upham, near Las Cruces. Projects AdventGX Launches Vestivo.com for Reservation Management Solutions, Inc. AdventGX recently launched Vestivo.com, featuring Reservation Management Solutions, Inc.’s line of premier reservation and property management solutions for the tourism and hospitality industry. Through its Vestivo line of products, RMS is revolutionizing the way businesses manage their reservations and properties. The Vestivo line of products offers fully integrated solutions designed to improve the efficiency of resort operations and enhance the guest experience. To learn more about Vestivo, visit www.Vestivo.com. AGX Plans Art Seminar, Show and Sale for Texas Mountain Region As part of the rural economic development strategy being implemented in Van Horn, Texas, AdventGX is developing a seminar and art show series targeting regional artists. The pilot seminar and sale is slated for November 11-13 and will focus on providing regional artists with key business skills, from pricing their work to online promotion. The seminar and sale will feature the work of regional Texas artists that tell the story of the Texas Mountain region through paintings, sculpture and pottery. By supporting regional artists, AdventGX is encouraging the creation, exhibit and sale of artwork that depicts the rich heritage, culture and natural beauty of the Texas Mountain region. October 1, 2005 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. October 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. Leading China Tourism Expert Tiger Wood Visits Texas A&M and AdventGX    :. Skadberg to Present at U.S. – China Conference    :. AGX Wins Contract to Produce Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide    :. AGX Joins Forces with IPS Group to Expand Service Offerings :: Projects    :. Quintana to Present at TTIA Travel Summit    :. Van Horn Delegates Plan Leadership Seminar, Meet Rudy Ruettiger AdventGX News Leading China Tourism Expert Tiger Wood Visits Texas A&M and AdventGX Tiger Wood of the Centre for Recreation and Tourism Research at Peking University visited Texas A&M University and AdventGX October 6-8 to discuss areas for future collaboration. Wood is considered among China’s foremost experts on nature tourism and during his visit AdventGX’s Andrew Skadberg and Wood outlined a number of potential areas for collaboration in China. To kick off the partnership relationship, Skadberg invited Wood to lead the China side of the roundtable discussion “Wetland Conservation, Nature-Based Tourism, and Rural Economic Development” during the U.S. – China Conference in November at China’s Peking University. Skadberg to Present at U.S. – China Conference Dr. Andrew Skadberg, AdventGX chief knowledge officer, is participating in the U.S. – China Conference as a panel member for the roundtable session “Wetland Conservation, Nature-Based Tourism, and Rural Economic Development.” The research roundtable session will discuss opportunities and challenges facing both China and the United States related to wetlands protection/restoration, natural resource conservation, rural economic development, and sustainable strategies for tourism development. Dr. Skadberg will be joined on the panel by Gan Jianbang, of Texas A&M University, Wu Bihu, of Peking University and Yongxia Skadberg of Texas A&M University. The U.S. – China Conference is scheduled for November 14-17 in Beijing, China and will include addresses by President George W. Bush an California Governor Arnold Schwartznegger. To learn more about the conference visit http://china-us.tamu.edu/index.php. AGX Wins Contract to Produce Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide Following a presentation to the Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Association, AdventGX team members secured the contract to produce the region’s travel guide both in print and online. Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge and Lindsey Hafner traveled to Alpine, Texas to discuss the AdventGX Strategy Deployment process and explain the proposed approach to development of the 2007/2008 Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide. The project will involve development of the printed guide, the accompanying web presence and sales of advertising for both. The kick-off ASD workshop to start the project is slated for late November. AGX Joins Forces with IPS Group to Expand Service Offerings On September 27th, AdventGX signed a Memorandum of Agreement with IPS Group of College Station, expanding service offerings for both partners and opening up new opportunities to bring tourism development strategies to the forefront of municipal planning strategies. Through the agreement, AdventGX now offers professional planning services, including comprehensive planning, zoning and subdivision application processing, code development and more. IPS Group brings some 55 years of combined planning experience and has supported such clients as the cities of Bryan, South Padre Island, Auburn and College Station. To learn more about IPS Group, visit www.IPSGroup.us. Projects Quintana to Present at TTIA Travel Summit AdventGX President Jose Quintana will demonstrate Texas Education Vacation at the Texas Travel Industry Association’s annual Travel Summit on November 1st in Corpus Christi. During the presentation, workshop participants will learn about the current and future capabilities of Texas Education Vacation and have the opportunity to post listings for their educationally oriented tourism attractions. To learn more about Texas Education Vacation or to add your attraction, visit www.TexasEducationVacation.com. Van Horn Delegates Plan Leadership Seminar, Meet Rudy Ruettiger Representatives of Van Horn traveled to College Station to meet with Texas A&M’s Director of Professional Development, Dr. Tony Brown and Rudy Ruettiger, famed Notre Dame football player and inspirational speaker, to devise a strategy for a rural leadership development seminar series. Van Horn Economic Development Director Jeff McCoy, Van Horn High School Teacher Sondra McCoy, Van Horn High School Students Lindsey McCoy and Brandon Brewster, Van Horn High Alumnus Tristan Brewster and Town of Van Horn Administrator Rebecca Brewster represented Van Horn in the planning session. November 1, 2005 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. November 2005 :: Projects    :. First Texas Mountain Art Seminar Attracts Area Artists    :. Travel Guide Project Launched with ASD Workshop    :. Project 7 Web Site Launched Projects First Texas Mountain Art Seminar Attracts Area Artists Artists in Van Horn and from throughout the Texas Mountain region came together in early November to show their work and participate in a small business seminar for artists in Van Horn. AdventGX produced the event as part of the Van Horn Economic Development Initiative. Nearly 20 artists participated in the educational weekend and locals and travelers visited the show to take in the art. The event was sponsored by the Texas Commission of the Arts, Van Horn Economic Development Corporation, Van Horn Convention Center and Visitors Bureau, Big Bend Arts Council and Red Rock Ranch. To view images from the event, see the complete AdventGX newsletter online at www.adventgx.com/news.asp Travel Guide Project Launched with ASD Workshop Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge and Lindsey Hafner traveled to Alpine, Texas to kick off the Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide project with an AdventGX Strategy Deployment Workshop. Representatives from communities across the region provided valuable insight that will shape the development of the 2007-2008 guide, slated to ship January 2007. AdventGX was awarded the contract to produce the print and online versions of the regional travel guide by the Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Association and will be providing turnkey services to see the project through to completion. Project 7 Web Site Launched AdventGX launched the web presence for Project 7 this month, providing a venue for disseminating information about the Van Horn Economic Development Initiative, also known as Project 7. The site features a chronology of the project, background a blog and information about the project team. To view the site and learn more about Project 7, log on to www.Project7.org. December 1, 2005 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. December 2005 :: AdventGX News    :. Esteemed Tourism Authority Dr. Joseph O’Leary Joins AGX Board of Directors :: Initiatives    :. Vestivo Showcased at 2005 ARVC InSites :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. AdventGX Builds Bridge to China :: Projects    :. AdventGX Wins Contract to Produce Van Horn Promotional Strategy    :. Did you know? AdventGX News Esteemed Tourism Authority Dr. Joseph O’Leary Joins AGX Board of Directors AdventGX is proud to announce that Doctor Joseph O’Leary has joined the AdventGX Board of Directors. Dr. O’Leary is a professor and department head in the Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism Sciences at Texas A&M University. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. O’Leary’s research has involved knowledge management, and analysis of large national and international studies of travel and recreation behavior. The results of his work have been used by public and private organizations throughout the world. Dr. O’Leary joins fellow AdventGX board members Dr. Carson Watt, professor emeritus of Texas A&M University in the Dept. of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences, Mr. Andy Sansom, former Executive Director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Mr. Brandon Coleman, brand development & marketing authority, Dr. Rick Giardino, Texas A&M University dean of graduate studies and Dr. Ronald Robinson, AdventGX CEO & Board Chairman and member of the Texas Governor’s Science and Technology Council. To read Dr. O’Leary’s extended bio, visit our web site at www.AdventGX.com/our_team.html. Initiatives Vestivo Showcased at 2005 ARVC InSites Amy Williams, Casey Jensen and Travis Nance participated in the National Association of RV Parks & Campground (ARVC) InSites 2005 Convention held in Austin, Texas. Vestivo was one of about 120 exhibitors who where able to showcase products and services for 1000 RV Parks and Campgrounds attending the convention. ARVC InSites was also an opportunity for Vestivo to announce their newly forged partnership with Friend Communications. Click here to read the full press release. Meetings/Presentations/Workshops AdventGX Builds Bridge to China Andrew Skadberg, (AGX Chief Knowledge Officer), Andrew Sansom, (AGX Board Member), Dr. Jianbang Gan, (Forest Sciences, TAMU) and Dr. Yongxia Skadberg (Recreation, Park & Tourism Sciences, TAMU) all presented at a Research Roundtable at the U.S. – China Conference in Beijing in November. The roundtable participants especially want to thank Dr. Rick Giardino (AGX Board) for his support to make this roundtable a reality.The session titled “Wetland Conservation, Nature-Based Tourism, and Rural Economic Development” ties directly to AdventGX’s core strategies for realistic, sustainable rural economic development. The roundtable participants are planning interim activities to continue the momentum created by the conference and are already preparing to participate in the next U.S. China Conference that will take place in the U.S. in 2007. Projects AdventGX Wins Contract to Produce Van Horn Promotional Strategy AdventGX was awarded the contract to develop the promotional strategy for Van Horn, Texas, including their printed travel guide and the web architecture for the Town’s comprehensive web presence. AdventGX will kick off the project with a marketing and promotion strategy deployment workshop in Van Horn shortly after the new year. Through the workshop, AdventGX will define the promotional goals for the Van Horn Convention Center and Visitors Bureau, the Van Horn Economic Development Corporation and the Town of Van Horn and define a promotional strategy, including both print and online components, to achieve them. The project is being performed in conjunction with the ongoing Van Horn Economic Development Initiative. To learn more about the project, visit www.Project7.org Did you know? More than 80% of travelers plan their trips online, so not only is important to have a web site, it’s important to have a strong, attractive, efficient web presence that works for your business. AdventGX has produced the web presence and brand for more than 25 tourism related businesses in the last 2 years. Here are just a few of the customers we serve:Herradura Ranch Wells Outfitters Captain Eric Glass Tule Creek Outfitters Captain Andy Thompson Wired Lodge VestivoRV Reservation Management Solutions If you are in need of a web presence – new or enhanced – please contact us at info@adventgx.com or call 979-216-0548 for more information. We are currently scheduling our 2006 projects and we’d love to help you capture your customers online. January 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. January 2006 :: AdventGX News    :. AdventGX Partners with Alchemy Training Systems, Studios to Extend Service Offering :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Meador Presents at Texas Farm Bureau Conference    :. AGX Participates in China Conference    :. Meador Presents at North Dakota Conference :: Projects    :. Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide Ad Sales Underway    :. AGX Hosts Workshop to Devise Van Horn Promotional Strategy AdventGX News AdventGX Partners with Alchemy Training Systems, Studios to Extend Service Offering AdventGX will now offer extended multimedia production services as well as video training solutions. These new products by AdventGX will be developed in partnership with Alchemy Training Systems, a digital media development company. With this new partnership, AdventGX is positioned to provide full service video production for both training and promotional projects, as well as multimedia DVD movies, web casts and much more. If you have a video or multimedia project in mind, contact Joan Tatge, AdventGX Director of Communications, to learn more. Joan can be reached via email at joantatge@adventgx.com. Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Meador Presents at Texas Farm Bureau Conference AdventGX Director of Nature Tourism Development Stan Meador addressed an audience of 150 during the Texas Farm Bureau Leadership Conference on January 30th in San Antonio. Stan presented strategies for diversifying traditional farming and ranching operations, including development of wildlife and nature based tourism opportunities. AGX Participates in China Conference Andrew Skadberg, (AGX Chief Knowledge Officer), Andrew Sansom, (AGX Board Member), Dr. Jianbang Gan, (Forest Sciences, TAMU) and Dr. Yongxia Skadberg (Recreation, Park & Tourism Sciences, TAMU) all presented at a Research Roundtable at the U.S. – China Conference in Beijing in November. The roundtable participants especially want to thank Dr. Rick Giardino (AGX Board) for his support to make this roundtable a reality.The session titled “Wetland Conservation, Nature-Based Tourism, and Rural Economic Development” ties directly to AdventGX’s core strategies for realistic, sustainable rural economic development. The roundtable participants are planning interim activities to continue the momentum created by the conference and are already preparing to participate in the next U.S. China Conference that will take place in the U.S. in 2007. Meador Presents at North Dakota Conference Stan Meador was invited to deliver a keynote presentation at the 4th Annual North Dakota Nature & Rural Tourism Conference held in Fargo, ND on January 17, 2006. This year’s conference theme was titled, “Community Success through Tourism”. Meador’s presentation delivered to approximately 100 attendees, titled “Community and Regional Growth in Rural America; a model based on Van Horn, Texas” highlighted the ongoing Van Horn EDI. In a break out session on the second day, Stan presented, “Nature Tourism: Moving from Individual Enterprise to Regional Destination.” This session was attended by CVB directors, regional tourism coordinators, researchers and a couple of individual enterprise operators.Andy Skadberg also attended the conference and took the opportunity to reach out to other conference participants including Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos, Senator Kent Conrad, and North Dakota Nature & Rural Tourism Association’s Marty Anderson. To view images from the event, see the complete AdventGX newsletter online at www.adventgx.com/news.asp Projects Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide Ad Sales Underway AdventGX is producing the 2007-2008 Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide, providing full service production and advertising sales to support both print and online versions of the guide. Advertising sales are now underway and space is limited. The travel guide will make its debut January 1, 2007 with a circulation of 250,000. A 5% discount will be passed along to businesses that purchase their advertisements before May 1, 2006. Special sponsorship opportunities are also available and represent outstaning promotional opportunity for participants. For more information about purchasing advertising space, or becoming a corporate sponsor, please call (979)216-0548. AGX Hosts Workshop to Devise Van Horn Promotional Strategy AdventGX teamed up with Van Horn Representatives to devise a comprehensive Promotional Strategy for the Town by completing a series of ASD workshops. During the workshops, participants Becky Brewster, Brenda Hinojos, Jeff McCoy, and Andrea Ramirez, shared their vision for the Town’s new website and promotional travel brochures. Based on participant’s comments and a follow-up survey, the AdventGX team will devise a comprehensive strategy for moving forward with the effort. The new website and brochure will both be coming out later this year. February 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtraAdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. February 2006 :: Initiatives    :. AGX Publishes Article in TTIA’s Nature Tourism Newsletter    :. AdventGX Proudly Sponsors International Week at Texas A&M    :. Check out our AdventGX ad in TTIA Directory! :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Quintana Presents Guest Lecture at Texas A&M University    :. Skadberg Presents at North American Farmer’s Conference :: Projects    :. AGX Team Tours West Texas for Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide Initiatives AGX Publishes Article in TTIA’s Nature Tourism Newsletter AdventGX President Jose Quintana and Communication Director Joan Tatge co-authored the first article in a two-part series that will appear in the Texas Travel Industry Association’s Nature Tourism Council Newsletter. “Travel Trends Online: Enhancing Your Nature Tourism Experience with Effective On-Line Promotion – part one: A Comprehensive Web Presence Strategy” appeared in the February edition of the newsletter. Visit www.adventgx.com/iMarket/060112-NatureTourismC-AdventGX-Aricle-101.pdf to read the full text of the article. AdventGX Proudly Sponsors International Week at Texas A&M Each year the International Student Association at Texas A&M presents iWeek. Short for International Week, the event brings together international students to celebrate, educate, and share their respective cultures with the community. AdventGX was a proud sponsor of the 2006 event lending support to the program by hosting its official website. AdventGX Executive Advisory Board member Rosy Saenz, who serves as President of ISA did a fantastic job providing the leadership to help make iWeek 2006 a great success. You can visit the iWeek website at www.adventgx.com/iweek2006/index.html. Check out our AdventGX ad in TTIA Directory! AdventGX is featured in a full-page ad promoting our web services in the Texas Travel Industry Association’s latest Membership Directory. Visit the online version of this newsletter at www.adventgx.com/news.asp?action=link&month=2&year=2006 to view the ad. Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Quintana Presents Guest Lecture at Texas A&M University Jose Quintana presented a lecture on information technology solutions for tourism as a guest lecturer for Dr. Ulrike Gretzel’s Recreation, Parks and Tourism Sciences class at Texas A&M University. Dr. Gretzel is the Director of the Laboratory for Intelligent Systems in Tourism within the Department of Recreation, Park and Tourism Sciences at Texas A&M. Skadberg Presents at North American Farmer’s Conference Dr. Andrew Skadberg, AdventGX Chief Knowledge Officer made two presentations at the recent conference of the North American Farmer’s Direct Marketing Association. In the first session, “On the Ecotourism Trail,” Dr. Skadberg presented “Stepping Back to See the Big Picture: Successful Community Tourism Development.” During the session, “Capturing Clicks: Best of NAFDMA Web Sites” he made the presentation titled “What makes a good Web site?” Projects AGX Team Tours West Texas for Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide En route to make a presentation to the Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Association, AdventGX team members Jose Quintana, Lindsey Hafner and Jonathan Kelly made a few stops to capture some memories. Jonathan stayed behind the camera. Visit the online version of this newsletter at www.adventgx.com/news.asp?action=link&month=2&year=2006to view pictures from the trip. Jonathan captured his view from the back seat – Jose Quintana and Lindsey Hafner. In Kerville, the team stopped at YO Ranch and spotted some exotics in the beautifully appointed lobby. From Kerville, they hit the road toward Marathon. After the meeting in Alpine the team headed north through Marfa and stopped to check out the newest art exhibit – Prada Marfa. Before heading home, they took in the sights (and said hello to good friends) in Van Horn, Texas. March 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. March 2006 :: AdventGX News    :. AdventGX Team Attends Unity Dinner :: Projects    :. AdventGX to Produce Promotional Video for Fort Stockton Economic Development Corporation    :. AGX Conducts Strategy Workshop for Economic and Tourism Development Seminars :: Team News    :. AdventGX Well Represented at iWeek Talent Show AdventGX News AdventGX Team Attends Unity Dinner AdventGX team members attended the annual Texas Travel Industry Association (TTIA) seminar and Unity Dinner, themed “Texas Events” on March 23 in Austin. Team members Nancy Millar, Stan Meador, and Andy Skadberg attended the nature tourism council meeting and discussed items affecting the growing nature tourism industry. Senator John Cornyn gave the keynote address at the dinner which was attended by AdventGX team members Ron Robinson, Carson Watt, Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge, Kelley Stewart, and Lindsey Hafner. Gary Sera of the Texas Engineering Extension Service and Jeff McCoy of Van Horn also joined AdventGX for the event. Projects AdventGX to Produce Promotional Video for Fort Stockton Economic Development Corporation AdventGX was recented awarded the contract to develop the economic development video for Fort Stockton, Texas. AdventGX will kick off the project with an AdventGX Strategy Deployment Workshop wherein members of the Fort Stockton Economic Development Corporation will share their vision for the promotional video. Through the workshop, AdventGX will define the goals of the Fort Stockton Economic Development Corporation and establish a development strategy for the video. AGX Conducts Strategy Workshop for Economic and Tourism Development Seminars AdventGX hosted the AdventGX Strategy Deployment workshop for the upcoming Economic and Tourism Development Seminar Series. The seminar series will be conducted in partnership with the Technology and Economic Development division of the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX). The tourism and economic development seminars will help communities identify best practices and network with fellow communities leaders. TEEX’s representatives Gary Sera, Lesa Hill, Trina Wacasey, and Deborah Webb participated in the workshop along with Keith Godwin from the Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau, and AdventGX team members, Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge, and Lindsey Hafner. Team News AdventGX Well Represented at iWeek Talent Show International students celebrated and shared their heritage at Texas A&M University’s annual International Week. Several AdventGX members participated in the talent show portion of the week. CEO, Dr. Ron Robinson, judged the talent show, and Rosy Saenz, Executive Advisory Board Member, presented at the event. Former AdventGX student intern, Erika Benyamin, performed in the show with the University’s Indonesian student group.        April 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. April 2006 :: AdventGX News    :. AdventGX Participates in Texas Lyceum Meeting on Gambling    :. Texas A&M RPTS Department Celebrates 40 Years :: Initiatives    :. Parral Wood Product Manufacturers Visit with AdventGX in West Texas :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Dr. Skadberg Presents at Bankers Conference    :. Dr. Skadberg Presents at Basic Economic Development Course :: Projects    :. AdventGX Launches TEEX ED-Central Newsletter    :. AdventGX, TEEX Present Technical Assistance Proposal to Madisonville City Council AdventGX News AdventGX Participates in Texas Lyceum Meeting on Gambling Gambling in Texas was the topic of the April Texas Lyceum meeting, held in Galveston. Experts on the topic discussed the effects gambling has on communities, the workforce, and the tourism industry. The weekend ended with a trip to the Sam Houston Race Track to watch the annual Conally Cup. AdventGX President Jose Quintana is a member of the Texas Lyceum Board of Directors. Joan Tatge, Lindsey Hafner and Jose Juan Quintana joined him for the meetings. Texas A&M RPTS Department Celebrates 40 Years Texas A&M’s Recreation Parks and Tourism Science Department (RPTS) celebrated its 40th anniversary at the annual Spring Banquet this month and the AdventGX team joined in the festivities. The event was held at The Association of Former Students’ Clayton W. Williams Alumni Center where awards and scholarships were presented to former students, students and professionals in the tourism industry. AdventGX team members participating in the celebration included former RPTS Department Head and Professor Emeritus Dr. Carson Watt, Dr. Warren Evans, AdventGX board member, Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge, Kelley Stewart and Lindsey Hafner. Keith Godwin, AdventGX executive advisory board member and director of Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau also joined the team for the event. Initiatives Parral Wood Product Manufacturers Visit with AdventGX in West Texas Representatives of wood product manufacturers from Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico made the five-hour drive to Fort Davis, Texas to meet with AdventGX at Sproul Ranch to discuss a new initiative aimed at developing a marketing channel for regionally branded wood products. Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge and Lindsey Hafner presented plans for a marketing, manufacturing and distribution consortium of manufacturers of handcrafted items such a picture frames, furniture, and various leather items to be distributed throughout the United States. As part of the Van Horn, Texas regional economic development initiative, AdventGX is establishing the consortium to support the production, distribution and sale of these regionally branded products. The consortium will also support regional economic and tourism development initiatives underway in Parral, Mexico. Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Dr. Skadberg Presents at Bankers Conference Dr. Andy Skadberg presented at a conference hosted by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, Iowa. The “Tourism Builds Communities” session focused on opportunities for tourism in rural communities and illustrated methods bankers and economic development entities can use to capitalize on them. The FHLBDM is a cooperative bank that represents about 1250 community banks, credit unions and savings and loans in Iowa, Missouri, South & North Dakota and Minnesota. Over 80% of the banks are located in communities with populations less than 2500. The conferences feature nationally recognized speakers like Neil Cavuto, Ben Stein and Bill Curtis. The next conference will be held May 24th & 25th in Osage Beach, Missouri. For more information visit www.primezone.com/newsroom/news.html?d=96422. Dr. Skadberg Presents at Basic Economic Development Course AdventGX Chief Knowledge Officer Dr. Andy Skadberg presented at the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC) in Frisco, Texas. The TEEX BEDC provides economic and community development professionals an introduction to issues, opportunities and resources. Tourism development sessions have recently been added to the seminar as a diversification strategy for economic development. Projects AdventGX Launches TEEX ED-Central Newsletter Under contract with the Texas Engineering Extension Service Technology and Economic Development Division, AdventGX recently developed and launched www.ED-Central.com as well as the monthly e-newsletter for the Economic Development Resource Library. The online resource and monthly e-newsletter aim to provide economic developers in small, rural and underserved communities throughout Texas with ideas, best practices and inspiration for successful, sustainable economic development. To subscribe to the newsletter, visit www.ed-central.com/subscribe.asp. AdventGX, TEEX Present Technical Assistance Proposal to Madisonville City Council AdventGX Director of Communications Joan Tatge and Lesa Hill of the Texas Engineering Extension Service Technology and Economic Development Division recently presented a proposal for technical assistance to the Madisonville City Council. AdventGX is partnering with TEEX to provide rural and underderserved communities with technical assistance related to economic and tourism development planning and implementation. To learn more about the technical assistance program, contact Joan Tatge at joantatge@adventgx.com. May 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. May 2006 :: Initiatives    :. Van Horn EDC Accepts TEEX/AGX Technical Assistance Proposal    :. AGX Launches Parral Woodcraft Consortium :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. O’Leary, Skadberg Present at Tourism Week Celebration in Brenham, Texas    :. Skadberg Presents at “Capitalizing on Rural America – Missouri” :: Projects    :. AGX Visits Alpine, TX Chamber of Commerce    :. AGX Visits Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide Sites    :. Tatge, Quintana Present Guide Plan to BBTMTA Board :: Team News    :. Ed Brooker Joins AdventGX Executive Advisory Board    :. Brian Smith Joins AdventGX Executive Advisory Board Initiatives Van Horn EDC Accepts TEEX/AGX Technical Assistance Proposal The Van Horn Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors approved a joint proposal by the Technology and Economic Development Division of the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) and AdventGX to provide technical assistance in support of Van Horn’s ongoing economic development initiative. Together, TEEX and AGX will develop the Town of Van Horn’s Road Improvements Plan and Beautification Strategy, providing research and identifying viable options for landscape design improvements to key roadways within and entering the Town of Van Horn. The team will create conceptual landscape designs for entrances into and key roadways within Van Horn for use in communicating plans to the residents of Van Horn as well as prospective sponsors of specific Van Horn projects. AGX Launches Parral Woodcraft Consortium After a series of meetings and presentations to woodcrafters from Parral, Chihuahau, Mexico, AdventGX has officially launched the Parral Woodcraft Consortium, a Texas corporation that will provide marketing, manufacturing and distribution support for member manufacturers of handcrafted items such a picture frames, furniture, and various leather items to be distributed throughout the United States. The consortium will support regional economic and tourism development initiatives underway in Van Horn, TX as well as Parral, Mexico. Meetings/Presentations/Workshops O’Leary, Skadberg Present at Tourism Week Celebration in Brenham, Texas On May 16, AdventGX Board Member Dr. Joe O’Leary, head of Texas A&M’s Department of Recreation Parks and Tourism Sciences, and AGX Chief Knowledge Officer Dr. Andy Skadberg presented to the Tourism Partners of Washington County, civic and business leaders, the Brenham Rotary Club and others from Washington County who are interested in promoting area tourism. Among the community leaders in attendance were Paul Kruse, CEO and president of Blue Bell Ice Cream. Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau Marketing and Sales Manager Keith Godwin, who is also a member of the AGX Executive Advisory Board, organized the event to showcase the many ways that tourism impacts Washington County’s economy. Washington County, home to Washington on the Brazos – the birthplace of Texas – is a growing center for heritage, nature and other forms of experiential tourism in Texas. Skadberg Presents at “Capitalizing on Rural America – Missouri” AdventGX Chief Knowledge Officer Dr. Andy Skadberg presented in Osage Beach, Missouri at a conference hosted by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. The “Tourism Builds Communities” session focused on opportunities for tourism in rural communities and illustrated methods bankers and economic development entities can use to capitalize on them. Attendance is equally split between banking executives and community economic development professionals. The FHLBDM is a cooperative bank that represents about 1250 community banks, credit unions and savings and loans in Iowa, Missouri, South & North Dakota and Minnesota. Over 80% of the banks are located in communities with populations less than 2500. The conferences feature nationally recognized speakers like Ben Stein and Bill Curtis. Projects AGX Visits Alpine, TX Chamber of Commerce Jose Quintana and Joan Tatge stopped in for a visit with Alpine Chamber of Commerce Director Johnny Johnson during their recent visit to far West Texas and discussed Alpine’s participation in the 2007-2008 Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide. Johnson shared information about Alpine’s many cultural events, from Cowboy poetry to stage productions that attract tourists to the area. The Chamber takes an active role in promoting and supporting Alpine events, providing visitors with a great selection of activities and in turn contributing to the town’s growing economy. Pictured below is a sampling of the posters the Chamber creates to promote area events. AGX Visits Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide Sites During their recent trip to West Texas for a Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide project meeting, Joan Tatge and Jose Quintana enjoyed a tour of Alpine’s Maverick Hotel and visited the Museum of the Big Bend, also in Alpine. During the trip they also stopped at Marathon’s historic Gage Hotel. Both communities will be well represented in the upcoming 2007-2008 Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide which AdventGX is producing under contract with the Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Association. Tatge, Quintana Present Guide Plan to BBTMTA Board Jose Quintana and Joan Tatge presented an update on the progress of the 2007-2008 Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Guide to the Travel Association’s Board of Directors during a meeting of the group in Alpine, Texas. The Big Bend Texas Mountain Travel Association contracted with AdventGX for turnkey services to produce both the print and online edition of the 2007-2008 guide. Advertising sales for the guide continue through July 31st and the guide is set to print late this year. The online travel guide will feature enhanced web promotion and analytics for participants, enabling advertisers to track the effectiveness of their online promotions. Team News Ed Brooker Joins AdventGX Executive Advisory Board Ed Brooker is a campground and RV park consultant, assisting potential owners with building an RV Park or campground as RV Park and campground management consulting, planning and design. Ed has managed a number of parks, campgrounds and RV parks for a variety of public and private corporations. For the past 15 years, he has offered customized consulting services specifically targeted towards newcomers to the industry and veteran operators across Canada, the United States and Australia. Ed has traveled extensively throughout Canada, the United States, Western, Central and Eastern Europe, Australia and New Zealand in a continuous search for insights of best practices, unique design, and promotional ideas. Ed is now pursuing a PhD through the Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, with a focus on the International Use of Foresight and Innovation within the Outdoor Hospitality Industry. Brian Smith Joins AdventGX Executive Advisory Board AdventGX is pleased to welcome Brian Smith to the Executive Advisory Board. Brian is a licensed attorney in the State of Texas and a Certified Economic Developer. He currently serves as a Government Affairs Representative for such clients as Texas Association of Public Educators Interlocal Agreement Self-Insurance League, and Texas Association of Political Subdivisions Interlocal Agreement Self-Insurance League. In this capacity, he provides legislative support for the roughly 110 member school districts and 93 member political subdivisions. He also represents developers before local governmental bodies across the state with permitting, land use, and other ordinance compliance matters. June 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. June 2006 :: Initiatives    :. AdventGX Team Visits Parral, Mexico    :. AGX, UACH Discuss Nature Tourism Innitiatives at Cibolo Creek Ranch    :. AGX Signs MOU with Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua :: Projects    :. AGX Attends Van Horn Youth Rodeo    :. AdventGX to Partner with TEEX on Ft. Stockton Technical Assistance Program :: Team News    :. Guadalupe Reyes Joins AGX Executive Advisory Board    :. AGX Interns Take on Project 7 Tasks Initiatives AdventGX Team Visits Parral, Mexico AdventGX team members Jose Quintana, Andy Skadberg, and Lindsey Hafner met in San Marcos to begin their trip southwest to Parral, Mexico to visit with the Parral Woodcraft Consortium. Before the team left San Marcos, they visited a popular park that was completely built and supported by the businesses of San Marcos. Once out in West Texas, the team took a short break from the road in Ft. Stockton to meet with new AdventGX Executive Advisory Board Member, Jed Elrod. The team headed across the Mexico border to visit the Parral Wood Consortium in Parral Mexico. On the way, they made a stop in the small Mexican town of Valle. Valle was established as a mining community and continues to thrive in the twenty-first century. The ruins of a textile factory, established near a hot spring, were only a short drive away from Valle. On the way to Parral from the ruins, the team could not help but notice the impressive, hand-built rock fences that wound themselves across the country side. The fences represent hard word, heritage, and lasting quality. Following these fences we eventually found our way to Parral. Once in Parral, the team met with each of the members of the Parral Woodcraft Consortium individually at their factories. The handmade items produced at each of these factories were quite astonishing in their beauty. The team visited a total of 9 wood and metal factories. The Consortium will create unique, handmade furniture and home decor items that will be sold in the United States as early as this summer. Before leaving Mexico, the team visited the small town of Guachochi, the headquarters of the Tarahumara Indian tribe. The team spent the day hiking and taking in the natural beauty surrounding the town. AGX, UACH Discuss Nature Tourism Innitiatives at Cibolo Creek Ranch The AdventGX team toured Cibolo Creek Ranch in far West Texas to discuss nature tourism initiatives. The ranch has been successful in the nature tourism industry since it was renovated in 1988. Cibolo Creek Ranch is known for its beautiful setting, luxurious accommodations, and great hunting, fishing, and bird watching grounds. AGX Signs MOU with Universidad Autonoma de Chihuahua AdventGX has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with The Escuela de Economía Internacional (EEI), part of the Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, located in Chihuahua, Mexico. EEI is a world-renowned program dedicated to improving the human capital of institutions and communities in Chihuahua, the Republic of Mexico and the world through learning, discovery and service. AdventGX is excited about the opportunity to work with EEI to bring the Republic of Mexico new technologies and methodologies in the area of leadership and professional development solutions. Projects AGX Attends Van Horn Youth Rodeo AdventGX team members working on various projects in Van Horn through the summer took a break to enjoy the youth rodeo over the weekend. The cool weather together with the small town rodeo arena and countless youth on horseback made for an exceptional West Texas experience. AdventGX to Partner with TEEX on Ft. Stockton Technical Assistance Program The City of Fort Stockton and the Fort Stockton Economic Development Corporation approved a joint proposal by the Technology and Economic Development Division of the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) and AdventGX to provide technical assistance in support of their economic and tourism development efforts. Together, TEEX and AGX will conduct a community marketing assessment, examining community resources and identify assets, barriers and challenges related to marketing the community. Based on the assessment, AdventGX and TEEX will work with the Fort Stockton’s Tourism Director and the Economic Development Director to devise a promotional strategy to attract new residents and tourists alike and develop a new web site to launch the promotional strategy. Team News Guadalupe Reyes Joins AGX Executive Advisory Board AdventGX is proud to welcome Guadalupe Reyes, Jr. as the newest member of the AdventGX Executive Advisory Board. Lupe currently serves as Dean of Technical and Workforce Education at the Blinn College Bryan (TX) Campus. He has over 30 years of community and technical college administrative experience as Dean and Vice President at large institutions in Chicago and Seattle. He built and founded the West Side Technical Institute, a $40 million satellite of the City Colleges of Chicago and also built another center in Seattle focused on computer and information technology certification training. In addition, Mr. Reyes is published nationally and internationally in the workforce development and contract education arenas. AGX Interns Take on Project 7 Tasks Each summer, AdventGX offers bright young students the opportunity to contribute to ongoing AdventGX projects and working members of project teams. Tasking ranges from manual labor in support of community projects to technical tasks. Recently, the interns worked in Van Horn on a renovation project in the historic Clark Hotel. The 2006 team of interns include Tristan Brewster, of Van Horn, Jose Juan Quintana and Colton Wilson of College Station and Cole Tatge of Bryan. July 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. July 2006 :: AdventGX News    :. AdventGX to Establish Speakers Bureau :: Initiatives    :. AdventGX Team Visits Nature Tourism Sites in Mexico :: Projects    :. AdventGX Begins work on Van Horn’s Comprehensive Planning Study    :. AdventGX Partners with Far Flung Adventures to Launch Journey Builder Product    :. TEEX, AdventGX Launch Fort Stockton Marketing Assessment    :. AdventGX Conducts Van Horn Traveler Survey :: Team News    :. AdventGX Interns Experience Van Horn’s Red Rock Ranch AdventGX News AdventGX to Establish Speakers Bureau AdventGX will soon be launching its speakers bureau, expanding our service offering to include facilitation, coaching and speaking engagement. The Speakers Bureau will include experts on tourism, community, and business development, and will provide the resources to help meeting and conference planners find the ideal instructor, facilitator or speaker for a given topic. Initiatives AdventGX Team Visits Nature Tourism Sites in Mexico AdventGX’s newest executive, Nacho Paez guided Jose Quintana and Andy Skadberg on a tour to sites throughout the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. The team’s adventure took them to some of Mexico’s most remote, scenic, and historic communities including a four hour drive through the forests and mountains of central Chihuahua and stops in Guadalupe y Calvo, the site where the first silver coins were minted in North America. Guadalupe y Calvo is also home to some of the continent’s oldest churches. The team made the short but adventurous treak from Guadalupe y Calvo to Mohinora Peak which at more than 9,000 feet is the highest spot in the state of Chihuahua. The last stop the team took was the town of Guachochi, and Sinforosa which is an exclusive access point to the southern part of the Copper Canyon. While visiting Sinforosa, the team took an airplane tour, flying through the canyon itself. Projects AdventGX Begins work on Van Horn’s Comprehensive Planning Study AdventGX began work on a comprehensive planning study for the Town of Van Horn. The study involves conducting assessing the community’s infrastructure as well as other resources and devising a plan that will complement the ongoing efforts of Van Horn’s Economic Development Initiative. The study will provide a solid foundation for the continued support of the community’s vision for the future. Once the project is complete, AdventGX will present a comprehensive report and several detailed community maps to the Town of Van Horn. This will provide the Town’s leadership with practical information, goals, objectives, and specific recommendations that will lead the community twenty years into the future. AdventGX Partners with Far Flung Adventures to Launch Journey Builder Product Far Flung Outdoor Center in Terlingua, Texas has agreed to partner with AdventGX to launch the premier edition of our Journey Builder product for small tourism operators. Journey Builder is both a back office suite and marketing tool created for boutique tourism operators. By agreeing to work with AdventGX on the initial product launch, Far Flung is helping to refine the product and ensure that it meets this need of this specialized market. TEEX, AdventGX Launch Fort Stockton Marketing Assessment Joan Tatge, AdventGX Director of Communications and Deborah Webb of TEEX Technology and Economic Development Division made their initial visit to Fort Stockton to begin a marketing assessment that will establish the basis for a new marketing web presence for the community. Joan and Deborah worked with Kenda Furman, Fort Stockton Director of Tourism and visited the community’s numerous tourism attractions as part of the visit. AdventGX Conducts Van Horn Traveler Survey AdventGX is conducting a traveler survey in Van Horn, Texas to establish a baseline of traveler perceptions of Van Horn as well as gather information needed to help create a better experience for visitors to Van Horn. The survey is being conducted both through personal interviews and online. Results for the survey should be in by the end of the summer. Team News AdventGX Interns Experience Van Horn’s Red Rock Ranch AdventGX interns enjoyed a four hour tour and hike at Van Horn’s Red Rock Ranch. The tour focuses on the geologic history of the region, and tourists get to view evidence of the native Americans that once inhabited the region. The interns climbed an exposure of precambrian rock, hiked to view a petroglyph and cooled their feet in a natural pool. August 1, 2006 in Archive AdventGXtra AdventGXtra is the monthly newsletter for the AdventGX team. Each month, look here for the latest information about new AdventGX projects and initiatives and learn about our newest AdventGX team members. August 2006 :: Meetings/Presentations/Workshops    :. Skadberg Presents at “Capitalizing on Rural America – South Dakota/North Dakota”    :. AdventGX Team attends Lyceum Meeting in Ft. Davis    :. AdventGX Team Presents at the Texas Art Exchange Conference :: Projects    :. Skadberg visits McDonald Observatory    :. AdventGX Team Visits Parral Woodcraft Consortium and Copper Canyon    :. Van Horn CVB to Sponsor Seminar    :. Texas Mountain Art Frames Now Available Meetings/Presentations/Workshops Skadberg Presents at “Capitalizing on Rural America – South Dakota/North Dakota” Dr. Andy Skadberg presented a session on “Tourism Builds Communities” at the third of four conferences hosted by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, South Dakota. The session focused on opportunities for tourism in rural communities, and methods bankers and economic developers use to capitalize on them. Throughout the four conferences, attendees have been presented new approaches for diversifying and revitalizing their communities. AdventGX Team attends Lyceum Meeting in Ft. Davis The AdventGX team attended a Texas Lyceum meeting in Ft. Davis, Texas July 28- 29. The event focused on the economic drivers behind hunting and outdoor recreational tourism and was held at the Sproul Ranch and Limpia Hotel. Team members took part in several activities at the ranch and hotel including jeep tours, quail hunting, and fine dining. Members attending the meeting included: Jose Quintana, Andy Skadberg, Joan Tatge, Bill Smith, Lindsey Hafner, Stan Meador, and Nacho Paez. Guests of AdventGX that also attending the meeting were Dr. Carson Watt, members of the University of Chihuahua in Mexico, Scott McGehee, Jose Juan Quintana, and Victoria Quintana. AdventGX Team Presents at the Texas Art Exchange Conference AdventGX team members Jose Quintana and Joan Tatge presented at Texas Commission on the Arts annual Texas Arts Exchange. The conference focused on the role arts play in developing cultural districts, promoting the creative economy, leadership and succession for the 21st century. Mr. Quintana and Ms. Tatge presented case studies of communities that used art as a revitalization tool, focusing particularly on the Texas Mountain Art Seminar, Show and Sale that took place in Van Horn, TX last fall. Projects Skadberg visits McDonald Observatory Dr. Andy Skadberg recently visited the McDonald Observatory in the Davis Mountains near Fort Davis, one of the anchor tourism attractions in the Big Bend Mountain region. Scientists at the observatory use three of the worlds largest telescopes to investigate other galaxies, space phenomena and to give us a better understanding of our universe. Andy met with Dr. David Lambert the UT McDonald Observatory Director, Sandra Preston, Asst. Director-Education and Outreach and other staff members to begin discussions of possible collaborations that will take advantage of ongoing projects like Texas Education Vacation as well as the potential for creating new experiential education opportunities in far West Texas. AdventGX Team Visits Parral Woodcraft Consortium and Copper Canyon Nacho Paez, AdventGX Director of Mexico Operations led fellow AdventGX team members on a tour of Chihuahua, Mexico. Jose Quintana, Joan Tatge, Andy Skadberg and AdventGX interns were part of the trip. Van Horn Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Jeff McCoy also joined AdventGX, taking the opportunity to visit with prospective business owners seeking opportunities in far West Texas.During the tour, the group visited several natural and historic sites throughout the region. One such site was Copper Canyon were the team took a beautiful hike. While at the canyon, the team was able to see Taramarra Indians run in the annual ultra marathon, a 100 km race (60 miles) beginning at the bottom of the canyon and up to the rim where the race ends in a small Mexican village. The winner ran the race in 6 hours. The team also met with several Parral Woodcraft Consortium members to evaluate prototype products for the Texas Mountain Brand line of products to be sold in West Texas. Before heading back to the United States, the team stopped at a chipotle pepper farm to tour the facilities. Van Horn CVB to Sponsor Seminar Van Horn Convention and Visitors Bureau announced in August its sponsorship of the Rural Economic and Tourism Development Seminar which is scheduled to take place December 18-19. The seminar will bring together leaders from throughout the rural West Texas to discuss ideas and strategies for regional economic development. The Van Horn sponsorship will provide participants the opportunity to enjoy a local nature tourism venue, Red Rock Ranch, as well as a closing reception at the newly opened Blue Quail Coffee in Van Horn’s Main Street district. Texas Mountain Art Frames Now Available AdventGX and Texas Mountain Art is happy to announce the release of an initial collection of rustic picture frames. The frames are available for wholesale purchase for retail establishments in West Texas and distribution is based out of Van Horn. The offering is part of one of our tourism and economic development initiatives and is augmenting regionally branded products for retail and tourism development. Retailers interested in purchasing frames wholesale can send an email to wholesale@AdventGX.com or should call (979)216-0548. Share!