Any of you who are familiar Gloria and Sol know that they have not been publishing Black Meetings & Tourism since 1994 for the accolades. Their main mission and passion is to recognize the contributions to and accomplishments of African-Americans in the hospitality, meetings and travel industry, and to use their platforms to uplift and inspire their community.
That being said, "I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge those organizations that have gone the extra mile to let us know how vital our work has been and the positive impact it has had on this industry we love," explains Sol. While they have received many awards in their 30 years of media efforts, during the last few months of 2024 they have received, or will receive a slew of honors that have truly touched their souls.
"In October during IMEX America in Las Vegas, we were bowled over by our dear friend and colleague Reina Herschdorfer of Caesars Entertainment at the Media & Momentum: A Morning of Recognition and Impact breakfast event with several surprises. In addition to receiving the coveted Key to the Empire from Caesars, we also were given a Certificate of Appreciation from Caesars and Meeting Professionals International; (MPI), as well as a Proclamation from Clark County Nevada and the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority," said Sol.
During November in Birmingham at the 41st Annual Convention of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, they have been informed by "my our dear Brother Jason Dun that we will be honored by receiving lifetime memberships to the NCBMP" Sol continued.
And then during December in Miami at the Caribbean Media Exchange (CMex), "our dear Brother Bevan Springer has notified us that we will be honored with Leadership Award."
The Herberts are so very thankful to all of these organizations and individuals who have or will bestow these honors on them. "We work hard to serve our community and our industry, and it warms our hearts to be recognized for our efforts" he says.
"I must thank our dedicated team for making this all possible and helping to achieve the excellence that has been our trademark for all these years. I especially want to single out several of our writers for their fine work, including Darlene Donloe, Sister Moutique, and Zyan Avraham, as well as Robert Ingram of Pop Media who is responsible for laying out Black Meetings and Tourism."
"A thank you also goes out to my Daughter Bonnie Herbert, who has recently joined the BM&T team in a sales and marketing role. You will be hearing a lot from her in the months to come.
"We must also acknowledge our fabulous meeting planner, Katrina Ruff of Forums Meetings & Events for being our go to person for coordinating our booth and Annual Meet Up at IMEX, in addition to the Hosted Buyer Events we offer each year."
"And last, but not least," says Sol, "I want to acknowledge the work of our son, Solomon II, for his numerous articles and spectacular cover designs. Solomon II has recently closed his own trucking business to devote full time to BM&T, and in the process is taking on more responsibilities."
In closing, Sol said, "Again, thanks everyone for your support. We will strive to continue to be your voice in an industry that all too often does not acknowledge your presence or contributions.