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Spring Greetings from Texas!
As the bluebonnets bloom and sunshine returns to the Lone Star State, we’re feeling that fresh burst of energy that only spring can bring. At Ultimate Ventures, this season reminds us why we love welcoming groups to Texas – there’s just something special about this time of year that brings people together in meaningful ways.
Whether you’re deep into planning your next event or just starting to explore possibilities, we hope this edition offers a little inspiration and a friendly reminder that we’re always here to help make your Dallas-Fort Worth programs unforgettable. From unique experiences to new venues and behind-the-scenes peeks, we’ve gathered a few spring updates that we hope you enjoy.
Thanks for being part of our community. Here’s to new beginnings and great events ahead!
The UV Team
ADMEI LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
A Celebration of Excellence: Laurie Sprouse, CITE, CMP, DMCP
Earns ADMEI’s Hall of Fame/Lifetime Achievement AwardWe’re so proud to share that our President, Laurie Sprouse, CITE, CMP, DMCP, was recently honored with the Hall of Fame/Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Association of Destination Management Executives International (ADMEI) Awards held in Arlington in February.
Laurie’s leadership and vision have shaped Ultimate Ventures, a DMC Network Company, into a cornerstone of the destination management community, while her passion for elevating the profession has had a profound impact on the industry as a whole. She is widely respected for challenging the status quo and setting new standards for destination management companies. In fact, she spearheaded Texas legislation in 2009, creating the first legal definition of a ‘Qualified Destination Management Company’ – a move that benefits DMCs and saves our clients tax money when meeting in Texas.
More than a personal achievement, this award reflects the passion, dedication, and innovation that fuel UV’s success. Congratulations to a true trailblazer!
NATIONAL MEDAL OF HONOR MUSEUM
New Venue Alert in Arlington, Texas!
The National Medal of Honor Museum officially opened in March of 2025 in Arlington’s expanding entertainment district. With 31,000 square feet of interactive exhibit space, the museum celebrates and shares the stories of the fewer than 4,000 recipients of the Medal of Honor. Visitors learn about the legacy of the medal itself and important historical battles, hear personal accounts of the lives and experiences of recipients in their own words, and can become immersed in a Vietnam-era helicopter rescue mission through virtual reality. Beyond the exhibits, the museum features a dozen unique event spaces, perfect for creating meaningful experiences for groups. Don’t miss the chance to visit this impressive new venue!
WELCOME TO THE TEAM CYNDIE!
Cyndie Estes, Program ManagerWe are thrilled to welcome our newest Program Manager, Cyndie Estes, to the Ultimate Ventures team. Cyndie is a seasoned professional when it comes to event planning and operations management. Throughout her career, she has executed corporate gatherings, high-profile sporting events, luxury weddings, and large-scale festivals across the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With over 25 years of experience in the events industry, Cyndie has been the perfect addition to our UV family. We can’t wait for you to get to know her!
ON OUR MIND: THE FABULOUS FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS
“Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind?” You Better Believe It Does!
While it’s the title of a George Strait song, Fort Worth is more than just a lyric to us – it’s a daily inspiration around our office. In fact, at a recent company meeting, we went around the table sharing some of our favorite spots to take friends, family, and guests in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Topping the list? The iconic Fort Worth Stockyards!
Taking people to the Fort Worth Stockyards and seeing the expression on their faces is priceless. From the awe-inspiring twice-daily Fort Worth Herd cattle drive to live rodeos, where guests get a real sense of cowboy culture, the Stockyards never fail to impress. The Stockyards also offers incredible dining and shopping experiences. Whether it’s savoring a delicious barbecue or Tex-Mex dinner while listening to live music or enjoying upscale Western cuisine on a charming patio, the dining options are deliciously Texan. Plus, shopping for authentic Western gear or kicking up your heels at Billy Bob’s Texas honky-tonk adds a fun, immersive element to the experience.
If you’re looking for a fun way for your group to spend the afternoon or evening, let’s talk about this unique destination that seamlessly blends history with modern excitement.
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