|
Paul Cunningham designated as a Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Master Cruise Counsellor
Seaside Park, NJ, June 26, 2009 – Travel professional, Paul Cunningham, from Seaside Park Travel has recently completed the Master Cruise Counsellor program with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the official trade organization of the North American cruise industry.
This comprehensive program provides agents with essential cruise product knowledge and sales skills. They earn credits upon completion of course exams, ship inspections and cruise experience.
“In addition to learning how to manage our business more effectively,” said Paul of Seaside Park Travel, “training programs such as those offered by CLIA, bring us up to date with the cruise industry which, in turn, allows us to serve our clients better. After all, our customers are our most valuable asset, and with so many choices available, we want to be sure to match vacationers with the right cruise.”
“This involves understanding the customer’s needs, being knowledgeable of cruise products and being able to convey the exceptional value of cruise vacations.” Paul added, “We want travelers to feel confident – and excited – about the choices they make, particularly if they are first-time cruisers or simply seeking a new adventure.”
CLIA, the official trade organization of the North American cruise industry, provides high-quality cruise sales and marketing educational programs to its affiliates and keeps travel agents informed of the latest information about the cruise industry.
For more information about cruise lines, ships, itineraries and worldwide cruise destinations, contact Paul Cunningham at 732-854-7137 or by email at paulc@cruiseformycharity.com.
Capture the Brass-Ring by Paul E. Cunningham
On June 18, 2008, Royal Caribbean International announced that its newest ship, Oasis of the SeasSM, would not only have a Central ParkSM but a BoardwalkSM with a carousel. This exciting announcement presents me with the opportunity to tell this true story.
From the late 1800s until World War II, many carousels had dispensers that presented brass and iron rings to be grabbed by the carousel riders. If you were lucky enough to grab the brass-ring, you were rewarded with a free ride and the envy of your friends. The brass-ring has come to signify the ultimate prize, having it all.
I recently met two gentlemen while walking the boardwalk near my home in Seaside Park, NJ. Bob is a collector and a bestower of carousel brass-rings. He has them blessed by a priest to add special significance. Bob was pleased that I understood the meaning and origin of the ring and gave me one as a token of our budding friendship. Bob was hooked on the carousel from his very first ride as a four year old in New York City’s Central Park. Phil, an accomplished and thoughtful man, had been friends with Bob for many years and I was immediately drawn by the charm of their friendship, wisdom and exuberance for life.
Father Charles Hudson was also enchanted with the carousel and often used the symbolism of the brass-ring in his sermons. As a young lad growing up in Jersey City, NJ, he was frustrated by his inability to capture the ring, but never stopped striving to be the best person he could be, to have it all. Father Hudson was held in high esteem by those who knew him and was co-founder of the Center for Hope Hospice among his more public accomplishments. On January 21, 1997, shortly after being named Grand Marshall of the first Union County, NJ Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, Father Hudson died of a heart attack. Phil and his wife learned about his untimely death at mass on Sunday. Bob had given both of them brass-rings in a double-ring ceremony as he calls it. But he also gave Phil an extra ring to give someone who needed the goodwill that it represents. Phil’s wife, Rose, knew immediately where the ring belonged.
On Monday morning, Phil was sent to Saint Helen’s church in Westfield, NJ where the viewing and funeral for Father Hudson were to be held. He was approached by a priest and asked if assistance was needed. Phil explained that he was there to give Father Hudson the brass-ring. The priest, having heard Father Hudson’s sermons many times, nearly overwhelmed Phil with his enthusiastic response. They placed the brass-ring on Father Hudson’s thumb while he lay in the casket and Phil quickly left, having accomplished his appointed task. Father Hudson, in death, finally captured his brass-ring.
Like wildfire, word of the young man who bestowed the brass-ring upon Father Hudson spread throughout the diocese. Who was this man? Where did he come from? Who sent him? This act of kindness evolved from the bond of friendship between Bob and Phil and the wisdom of Rose. I am proud to have these new friends.
When she launches in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line’s new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which includes Central Park, Boardwalk and the Royal Promenade. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Additional information is available at www.oasisoftheseas.com.
Paul Cunningham is the owner of Seaside Park Travel, America’s Charitable Travel Agency™. To ride the carousel on the Oasis of the Seas, or arrange other leisure travel while helping your favorite charity, please contact paulc@cruiseformycharity.com or call 732-854-7137.
|
