Joslove speaking at the South Forty Catering Company in Odessa on March 11.

The Odessa CVB welcomed Scott Joslove, President/CEO of the Texas Hotel and Lodging Association, to Odessa on March 11 for a hotel law seminar and luncheon for tourism industry professionals. Mr. Joslove spoke on law issues that affect hotels and the do's and don'ts of occupancy tax usage.

 
 

Linda Sweatt with attendees at the Odessa sponsored table. Kitty Singh not shown.

The Texas Travel Industry Association (TTIA) held their Annual Unity Dinner in Austin on March 25. Unity dinner unites travel and tourism professionals with key elected officials. 

The CVB sales staff conducted a local Back to Business Blitz on March 18.  Staff made 25 calls on local meeting planners, resulting in 4 new leads and 2 new bookings.

The annual retreat for the Odessa CVB scheduled for March 20 was canceled.  It is rescheduled for April 8.  

Odessa CVB Director Linda Sweatt will be heading to South Padre Island April 15 for the Texas Travel Industry Association's (TTIA) annual Travel Fair.  The show will be held April 16-17 at the South Padre Island Convention Center.  Linda will be promoting Odessa as a tourist destination to travel counselors from across the state.

Odessa Jackalopes 
 

Not only do the Odessa Jackalopes provide the Permian Basin with great family entertainment during the winter months, but the team also supplies its players with the opportunity to further their hockey careers.

Conner Hellebuyck

The Odessa Jackalopes will be entering their 18th season starting in October of 2014.  They have secured numerous Division 1 & Division 3 college commitments over the past few years. And who can forget the excitement of goaltender Conner Hellebuyck being drafted into the National Hockey League in 2012!

"We are in a situation now where college and NHL scouts are watching the Jackalopes for the stars of tomorrow", said Jacks President Dan Lavergne. He went on to say, "Permian Basin fans have the opportunity to watch a high level of hockey, and perhaps get a glimpse of a Jackalope who could go on to a stellar college and pro career."

The Odessa Jackalopes season runs October through March. If you missed them this year, make sure you don't miss them next year! Tickets can be purchased at West Texas Tickets, prices start at $5 for children and $8 for adults.

Can't wait until October? Then follow the Jacks throughout the year on their website Odessa Jackalopes and Facebook Page. Both are a great way to keep up with players, coaches, and their participation in community events.