First Gay, Hispanic Man Appointed to Oregon Tourism Board

PORTLAND, Ore. - The Jupiter Hotel is proud to announce General Manager Al Munguia's appointment as Commissioner to the Oregon Tourism Board effective July 1st, 2011. In addition to his role at the Jupiter, Mr. Munguia brings over 25 years of international experience in the hospitality industry and seeks to provide a unique voice to the Tourism Commission, known as Travel Oregon.

Appointed by Governor Kitzhaber, Mr. Munguia was unanimously confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Mr. Munguia's duties will include allocating budgetary spending, promoting Oregon Tourism, and cooperating with local, regional, and national tourism entities.

"I was drawn to this position to be able to provide an additional point of view in deciding how and where Oregon travel budgets are spent," explains Mr. Munguia. "The travel industry, although hit hard the last few years, continues to be a leading provider of jobs and revenue to the state. Tourism increases our standing in the global community as a leader in cuisine, green energy, and many other fields."

In his 6 years with the Jupiter Hotel, Mr. Munguia has established himself as a key player in Oregon's tourism industry, specifically through his involvement with the Hispanic and LGBT communities of the greater Portland area. Through his stewardship, the Jupiter Hotel has become a pillar of these communities, supporting events such as Latino Gay Pride, BearTown, Taste of Mexico, Pride NW and many more.

"Oregon works best when its citizens are engaged and active in its governance, and we are committed to ensuring that all Boards and Commissions reflect Oregon and the geographic, racial, and gender diversity of our state," said Governor Kitzhaber.

Mr. Munguia aims to combine his overall industry experience with the unique perspective he has gained at the Jupiter Hotel. "The Jupiter has a distinctive clientele, a demographic that is sometimes overlooked by more mainstream companies. These demographics continue to be an essential part of local tourism and I am excited to use my experience to better promote Oregon travel."

For more information about the Jupiter Hotel, visit www.jupiterhotel.com, or call (503) 230-9200. For questions regarding this press release and any follow up materials, please contact Shannon Pratuch of The SCENE Marketing Group at (503) 477-7155.

The Oregon Tourism Commission, Travel Oregon, works to enhance visitors' experience by providing information resources and trip planning tools that inspire travel and consistently convey the exceptional quality of Oregon. By strengthening economic impacts of the state's tourism industry, the commission aims to improve Oregonians' quality of life. Visit www.TravelOregon.com for details.

The Jupiter serves as a home-on-the-road for modern travelers, cultural creatives and business nomads alike looking to indulge in urban life. The 81 modern guestrooms, including the DreamSUITE, connect guests to the vibrancy of Portland at affordable rates- with any number of ways to get around town. A variety of transportation options offer guests "alternative" ways to explore the city - from pedicabs and Electra bicycles on site to car share options and even a charging station for electric cars.

Travelers looking for a unique experience in urban hospitality find their destination at the Jupiter, with rooms equipped with iPod compatible speakers, down comforters, pillow-top queen beds and complimentary Wifi. The adjacent Doug Fir Restaurant and Lounge is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. and offers cutting edge musical acts most nights in its underground music venue. The Jupiter Hotel is located at 800 E. Burnside, Portland, OR. For further information visit our online e-media kit or to make a reservation visit www.jupiterhotel.com or call 503-230-9200 or 877-800-0004.