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- Shane Lambert Celina City Council Q&A 2026
Read Shane Lambert’s full Q&A for Celina City Council Seat 5. Learn his positions on growth, taxes, infrastructure, water, and public safety. Candidate Q&A – Shane Lambert Celina City Council Candidate Place 5 Opponent: Brent Baty Growth & Infrastructure. Celina’s explosive growth requires costly roads, utilities, parks and drainage. How will you ensure these systems keep pace without sacrificing fiscal responsibility or small-town charm? While growth is important, it must be properly managed with fiscal responsibility. This includes utilizing Celina's Capital Improvement Program and strategic (2026 - 2028) plan. My priorities align with funding for roads, water, and parks proactively versus waiting until later to address these issues. Secondly, is discipline! We can utilize developer-driven infrastructure improvement support while strictly adhering to annual budgets. This approach will also avoid passing on overburdening expenses to the taxpayers, Property Taxes & Revenue. The council has lowered the property-tax rate for four straight years, yet higher valuations mean many homeowners still pay more. What is your philosophy on future tax rates, and how would you diversify revenue (e.g., sales tax) to fund services? Although the council has lowered the property-tax rate, we are still out of line with surrounding cities. For year 2025 - 2026, Celina's property tax rate per $100 is $0.576. Compared to Prosper at $0.505, Melissa at $0.454, Aubrey at $0.450, and Frisco at $0.425. In addition, Celina is behind on the Local Homestead Exemption as well. For (FY 2025 - 2026) Celina is listed as "none" for Homestead Exemption. Meanwhile, Frisco is at 20% (max allowed) and Prosper is at 17.5%. My philosphy for the future in simple terms: No additional cost can be passed on to the tax payer and we must find ways to resolve our debt and become more competitive with our neighboring cities Public Safety Funding. Nearly half of Celina’s general fund goes to public safety, and the city plans to add school resource officers, detectives, patrol officers and firefighters. How will you balance staffing needs with limited resources as the population spreads east and north? Leverage tax growth from new property additions which will allow for more sustainable investment in police, firefighters, and school resource officers. The city also can actively pursue federal COPS grants for officers and utilize interlocal agreements with Celina ISD to fund schools resource officers which reduces the burden on the general fund. Finally, the city is fostering sales tax growth through new commercial developments to diversify funding for public services Water Conservation Policies. Officials say roughly half of peak-season water use is spent watering grass; staff proposed limiting turf or requiring xeriscaping, but builders worry about cost. What policies should the city adopt to reduce outdoor water consumption while respecting property rights and development economics? One positive development is that Celina is addressing rapid growth-related water shortages by developing the Lake Ralph Hall project, expected to provide new, long-term supply by late 2026 or early 2027. In the meantime, we are going to have to make some sacrifices to conserve water usage and rates! These initiatives include smart irrigation and technology such as weather based controllers and irrigation systems and an incentive based rate structures that rewards Celina citizens for watering during "off-peak" times. Long-Term Water Supply. North Texas is planning new water sources like Lake Ralph Hall to meet booming demand. What should Celina do to secure adequate water for decades, and how should the city engage residents in conservation efforts and drought planning? Celina needs to diversify! Begin now securing supplies beyond the Lake Ralph Hall project by expanding regional partnerships for water treatment and adopting water reuse projects for irrigation. Once again, I believe in a rate reduction that encourages and incentivizes citizens for watering during non-peak times versus only punishing our people for using during peak times. Downtown Street Reconstruction. City officials want to convert all downtown streets to concrete within 10–15 years, which would require postponing other projects. Do you support the 10-15-year option (approx.$85 million), a longer timetable, or an accelerated 6-10-year plan that could cost more than $200 million? Explain your choice. Whereas, according to Community impact news, "The 10–15-year plan (approx. $85 million) appears to be the most balanced approach for converting downtown streets to concrete. This timeline allows for necessary infrastructure modernization while managing costs better than an accelerated plan, despite requiring the postponement of other projects." I would add that with additional tax revenues coming in from the current commercial developments, this timeline could be accelerated without as significant postponement of other projects. Infrastructure Trade-Offs. Pursuing OptionB for downtown streets could delay projects such as Legacy Bridge and J. Fred Smith Parkway and stretch engineering resources. Which infrastructure projects, if any, would you defer, and how would you mitigate impacts on residents and businesses? My approach would be to look at mitigation strategies such as strategic phasing to make sure that alternative routes are completed before closing major intersections. We would be wise to use clear signage, regular updates, and high levels of coordination with the downtown businesses to ensure business accessibility. PIDs, TIRZ & Special Districts. Celina prefers Public Improvement Districts (PIDs) to finance infrastructure; they fund roads, utilities, parks and amenities through special assessments. A Tax-Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ #8) has a fund balance of $3.5million and a captured value of $719million. What role should PIDs, TIRZ or other districts play in funding growth? Under what conditions would you create or expand a special taxing district? As a city experiencing rapid growth, strategic financing is critical. I support the use of PIDS and Tirz zones as long as they properly evaluated (not falsely inflated) in accordance with future increases in property tax revenue (not rates) within specific, underdeveloped areas - once again - without raising future taxes Support for Small Businesses. Celina’s strategic plan calls small businesses “the heartbeat of Celina” and commits to investing in infrastructure, streamlining permitting and maintaining a business-friendly atmosphere. How will you ensure that downtown shops and locally owned services thrive as big-box retailers open nearby? As a board member on the Celina Economic Development Corporation, we use a destination development approach that balances large-scale growth with support for our local downtown shops. I believe in restrictions that keep the big box away from downtown and support our small business owners unique shops and charm. I will support infrastructure that adds to the charm and attraction of the downtown amenities, sidewalks, trails, and parking. Balancing Big-Box & Local Retail. The city hopes to boost sales-tax revenue with national retailers. What policies will you implement to attract major stores without eroding the community character or pushing out independent businesses? I believe that City Council and the EDC is already doing a great job with this. I plan to continue to support the policies that have brought new players in the medical industry, retail, and hospitality. Once again, keeping big box out of downtown, addressing downtown infrastructure and support for our downtown businesses. Agricultural Heritage & Open Space. Celina’s strategic plan pledges to preserve the city’s “rich agricultural heritage” while encouraging high-tech businesses and agritourism. How will you protect farmland, natural spaces and the city’s rural character amid rapid development? The city has already established a dedicated framework to integrate agriculture assetsw into its tourism economy. I support this approach allowing working farms to remain viable doubling as unique destinations. I also support the comprehensive plan that serves as a roadmap to balance new developments with the city's agriculture and cultural heritage Housing Diversity & Affordability. With rapid growth and rising property values, how will you promote a range of housing options—starter homes, “missing middle” housing, senior living—while avoiding unchecked sprawl and preserving neighborhood quality? I believe in the approach of market-based solutions, promotion of private property rights, rather than government-mandated development. The goal is to balance the need for more housing with the preservation of existing neighborhood character in Celina. Downtown Vision & Character. As downtown streets are rebuilt, how should building heights, density, parking and land uses evolve? What is your vision for Celina’s downtown 20y ears from now, and how will you balance modern amenities with historic preservation? Celina's downtown evolution focuses on high-density, mixed use, walkable "urban village" development. While this development blends multi-story structures with historic charm, I do believe in height restrictions so that we do not change the charm of downtown. Parking and connecting walking trails are a part of the vision that I have for downtown also. I will also work on a plan to fullfill our promise of Celina - Life Connected. Currently, there is a disconnect with the largest growing segment of our population which is moving in south of Punk Carter, and the charming downtown Celina. We will work on ways to bridge this gap through community communications, signage, and all means available to encourage the "downtown experience" Community Engagement & Transparency. The strategic plan emphasizes open communication and telling Celina’s story. How will you keep residents informed about zoning changes, budgets and development plans? What tools will you use to gather feedback from both long-time residents and newcomers? I am keeping my website open with the "talktoshane" communication feature. I commit to being an open door of communication. Residents will be able to communicate with me directly and I will represent our citizens, thoughts, concerns, and ideas to the council Personal Priorities. Beyond the issues above, what are your top three priorities for Celina over the next four years? How does your background uniquely prepare you to represent a rapidly growing city, and what legacy do you hope to leave? My top three priorities: Addressing infrastructure strain and Celina's rapid growth. Collaboration with ISD for safety in our schools Economic stewardship that focuses on our infrastructure, high housing costs, and a challenging retail/entertainment environment My background in Service uniquely qualifies me. 25+ years in the hospitality business and 7 years leading a drug and alcohol recovery program has exemplified that I have a heart for service and restoration. As a small business owner with an MBA in Finance and accounting, I am uniquely qualified to understand finances, financial statement analysis - and ultimately make wise fiscally responsible decisions. Finally, with a degree in behavioral science, I am uniquely qualified to understand human behavior, emotions, and concerns. Closing. Do you have anything you'd like to say to the voters in Celina that hasn't been covered here already? Also, why do you believe you are the better choice for this council position than your opponent(s)? In closing, I believe I am the best candidate for because I have the experience that matters and the demonstrated heart for service. My professional experience in hospitality and alcohol/drug recovery has equipped me with a true servants heart. I take great pleasure in seeing others succeed in life. My experience on the Celina Economic Development Corporation gives me a competitive advantage in understanding the economics of the city, the vast amount of relationships that I have established, as well as an existing cooperative and positive working relationship with EDC, City Council, and other Celina departments. I am equipped and ready to make a positive impact on Celina - Celina now and for the future. Contact Email talk2shane@gmail.com Phone +1 972 439 0589 Campaign Website talktoshane.org
- Michael Wagoner | The Best Of Celina
Michael Wagoner Celina ISD School Board Candidate Place 2 Phone: Email: Facebook Campaign Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573051963284 Please introduce yourself and describe your connection to the Celina ISD community. My name is Michael Wagoner and I am running for Celina ISD Board of Trustees Place 2. We moved to Celina 5 years ago with the intention of getting involved and moving this community forward. I have been on the Bobcat Council, an officer with the Martin PTA, I have 4 kids who are in the district, and, of course, most people know me best because of my wife, Lindsay, who teaches at Martin elementary. I have had the awesome opportunity to meet and grow with so many parents and students over the years as I have coached more than a dozen combined seasons in baseball, football, soccer, and basketball with Celina Parks and Rec. What personal experiences in education or community service have prepared you for a role on the School Board? Fun fact, my personal experience in education does include being a substitute teacher for a short period of time in Denton ISD. Also, as I have stated before, service has been a part of my life since attending the US Naval Academy and serving as a commissioned officer. This coupled with my time working in a multidisciplined environment as a family medicine physician give me a wide range of experiences to bring to the table as a member of the Board of Trustees. On average, how many Celina School Board meetings have you attended in person in the last 12 months and have you ever addressed the board? Not answered. What is your long-term vision for Celina ISD, and how do you plan to balance the district’s rich heritage with the demands of rapid growth? -In my long-term vision, Celina ISD is the premier school district in Texas, known across the nation for excellence. In a changing educational environment, challenges to public education are seen as opportunities to meet the competition with unmatched excellence. -I think the district has a great start in trying to balance the future demand by putting together the 2025 Bond Steering Committee. Encouraging a wide range of participants who are parents, city officials, business and community leaders, middle and high school students, and CISD staff in researching and presenting a future-forward bond plan. Being engaged, asking for feed back and implementing these plans is how I expect to help the district meet these future opportunities for growth. -Celina TX and Celina ISD – the success of one supports the success of the other In what ways do you see the School Board evolving to meet future challenges? I think we must start by asking the right questions. CISD’s board is asking an excellent question, “What do we want to become?” The Long-Range Facility Committee is an example of effective attempts to persistently provide answers to that question. As a CISD board member I will make every effort to engage the Celina community in CISD planning and implementation. For example, when changes to school attendance boundaries are proposed, families may feel significant challenges to their Bobcat traditions. I appreciate the current CISD board in their effective engagement with Celina families, through parent meetings with encouragement for feedback, clear website postings, newsletters, etc. How will you work to maintain and enhance academic excellence across all Celina ISD schools? I must be ready and willing to listen to the recommendations of our education professionals, our CISD administrators, teachers, counselors, paraprofessionals, with an eye on balancing best educational practices and innovations. As a new board member, I will invest the time necessary to learn the process, with my goal being to work with my fellow board members to provide every possible resource that ensures the success of all CISD students. What strategies would you propose to ensure that the curriculum remains innovative and relevant for today’s students? I will come to Place 2 ready to gain a deep understanding of how trustees can most effectively use our people, our money, our time, and our facilities as this community experiences extraordinary growth. I will support the continuous evaluation of the success of our current strategies, while keeping an eye on promising innovations. Listening to our education professionals will always be a critical strategy for me. What steps will you take to support and retain quality educators within Celina ISD? I think annual or bi-annual surveys can be a great way to get a pulse of the boots on the ground. The teachers are the engine that drives the district. I will work to continue those board efforts that are successfully supporting CISD educators. Where the indicators are not positive, I will attempt to engage those educators and my board colleagues to find solutions. How do you plan to promote ongoing professional development to keep our teachers at the forefront of modern education? Analysis of district student-success data is one way to identify strengths and weaknesses in our instruction from PK through 12th Grade. Professional development initiatives must align with this data. As I become informed about innovations and best practices, I will listen to the recommendations of the ones as mentioned above are the boots on the ground, our professional educators, and I will work with the CISD board to determine how we can most efficiently and effectively provide the resources needed. With enrollment projected to grow significantly, how would you ensure that the district’s budget is managed efficiently while meeting the needs of expanding facilities? The CISD board of trustees has invested several years in planning, study, and implementation of a critical bond plan. As a new trustee, I will listen and learn. I will encourage continued fiscal responsibility at the campus level, supporting ongoing training of administrators in effective alignment of campus budget allocations with the long-term goals of the entire district. What priorities should guide the allocation of funds between new construction, renovations, and educational programs? Our educational programs must always be our first priority. Renovations and new construction are planned and implemented in our pursuit of student learning and student success. Celina ISD is experiencing rapid enrollment growth. What measures would you support to prevent overcrowding in our schools? Celina ISD has established a record of successfully meeting the challenge of expansion. The Past Bonds link on the CISD website documents that as a result of effective management of the 2019 bond funds, every planned project was or will be completed on time and under budget. The report also notes that this effective management made the completion of additional CISD projects possible. The current board of trustees shows every indication of meeting and exceeding the 2019 success. In that effort, we must ensure that currently existing facilities are being used to the maximum benefit, even as new facilities are necessary and become available. How can we optimize existing facilities while planning for necessary future expansions? This question could go a lot of ways. I think there may be some benefit to partnering with the City of Celina for use of existing facilities that are no longer needed by CISD or other partnerships such as data-sharing from expansion studies, etc. that keep us up to date regarding the growth expectation. It can be tough to project future growth but our new construction should be designed with explosive expansion in mind. How will you ensure that parents, teachers, and community members have a meaningful voice in the decision-making process? Being an advocate and supporting the current board's commitment to attending, speaking at, and contributing to community by engaging in community organizations like Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Celina Local. What methods would you use to maintain transparency about district policies, budgets, and upcoming projects? CISD’s website provides easy access to valuable information, including social media feeds. It is important to ensure that stakeholders, including those Celina residents who do not have children enrolled in CISD, are aware of the varied ways they can communicate questions, comments, and concerns. How can Celina ISD better integrate new technologies to enhance learning and operational efficiency? As noted on the CISD website, CISD conducted a study in 23-24 and developed a plan 24-25 to develop new CTE pathways for students to receive valuable workforce certificates. In 25-26, CISD should follow thru to implement the useful elements that resulted from this 2-year study/plan. We've planned our work, now we should work our plan. What role do you see for technology in preparing students for a rapidly evolving, digital future? Technology in the classroom is supported by CISD’s Technology and Innovation Department, another positive indicator of our district’s focus on the critical partnership between instruction and innovation. I will strongly support the board’s continued allocation of resources (the people, the dollars, and the time for teacher and student learning) that ensures that CISD students have every opportunity to develop digital-age expertise with life-long benefits. What initiatives do you believe are essential to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment? I strongly support the board's commitment to annually increasing student involvement in co-curricular/ extra-curricular activities at all school levels. How would you address issues related to student mental health and overall wellbeing within the district? Encouraging and advocating for opportunities and participation a wide range of school activities has so much benefit beyond the classroom: confidence, a sense of belonging, experience with successes and challenges. These are the proven benefits when students are engaged in school activity. ESSENTIAL is the protection of ALL students from cyber threats, bullying, online adults connecting with kids to name a few. Celina ISD has a proud legacy—how will you honor this tradition while implementing necessary changes for modern education? The success of Celina, TX and the success of Celina ISD are inseparable. The CISD board has demonstrated respect for community needs, concerns, and opinions by bringing Celina community representatives together with CISD representatives to study, plan, propose, and implement necessary changes. As a CISD board member I will make every effort to engage the Celina community in CISD planning and implementation. For example, when changes to school attendance boundaries are proposed, families may feel significant challenges to their Bobcat traditions. I appreciate the current CISD board in their effective engagement with Celina families, through parent meetings with encouragement for feedback, clear website postings, newsletters, etc. What innovative ideas do you have that could enhance the learning experience while respecting the district’s history? CISD’s success is currently measured in many ways, with data used to keep us continuously focused on monitoring, adjusting, and improving throughout the district. I believe an innovative measurement of CISD’s success may be found in gathering data from our graduates. From the graduate’s point of view, What did we do right? What could we have done better? How has CISD impacted your post-High School success? How do you plan to work collaboratively with fellow board members, administrators, and community stakeholders to achieve your goals? In my experience, asking questions and being willing to learn has always been crucial in any new endeavor. I intend to bring my experiences and background and smartly contribute to CISD Board of Trustees. What leadership qualities do you bring that will positively impact the district’s future? I believe three of my strongest leadership qualities are willingness to listen and learn, effective communication, and action oriented. What is the key message you want to convey to parents, educators, and community members regarding your candidacy? I may not have all the answers but at the core of my candidacy is a heart for the teachers and kids of this school district. How do you envision your role on the School Board making a lasting difference for Celina’s students and families? My desire is to see this district and this community ready to hit every pitch. When a curveball is thrown (vouchers, growth, technology innovation, funding from the state, etc.) the CISD Board of Trustees is swinging.
- Pets | The Best Of Celina
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- Jingle Spurs Contest | The Best Of Celina
TBOC & Ron Lyons Music Jingle Spurs Contest Listen & Download Celina kids and families are invited to listen to or download the new Christmas song “Jingle Spurs” by Ron Lyons Music and use their creativity to tell their version of the Legend of Jingle Spurs. The goal: to inspire imagination, celebrate local talent, and spread small-town Christmas spirit — all while putting Celina, Texas on the map for something joyful and creative. How It Works Kids (and families!) will: Listen to the secind song on the “Jingle Spurs” Album by Ron Lyons called "Jingle Spurs" at the link above or on Apple Music, Spotify, YouTube, or anywhere music is streamed. Create their own interpretation of “Jingle Spurs” (Santa's oldest reindeer.) They can submit one of the following: 🎨 A drawing, painting, art form showing what they think Jingle Spurs looks like. 📝 A short written story or poem telling Jingle Spurs’ legend. 🎥 A video (up to 60 seconds) acting out or retelling the story of Jingle Spurs. Submit entries through: The form on this page. Prizes SIX $50 Visa/Mastercard Gift Cards (6 Winners of a $50 Gift Card) Winners will be chosen before Christmas! All entries will be featured in The Best of Celina community gallery online and shared on social media! Schedule 🎵 Contest Launch November 28th 🖍️ Submissions Open Nov 28th-December 14th at 5 PM Accept entries via form. ❤️ Community Voting Dec 14th – Dec 19th 🎁 Winners Announced Dec 20th Posted on Facebook Live and featured in The Best of Celina newsletter. Contest Rules Open to Celina area residents ages 5–14 (parent/guardian must approve entry). Only one entry per child. Submissions must be original work. Must include parent/guardian name, phone, and email for prize contact. All submissions may be shared by Ron Lyons Music and The Best of Celina on social platforms. No purchase necessary to enter — listening to the song helps with inspiration! No AI assistance with entries Parent or Guardian First Name* Last name* Email* Phone* Child's Name* Child's Age* File upload Upload File Tell Us About Your Entry* Submit
- 404 | The Best Of Celina
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- Lone Star Roots | The Best Of Celina
< Back Lone Star Roots 4692524520 8980 Preston Road, Suite 411 Frisco, TX 75034 carrie@lonestarroots.com . SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: Https://facebook.com/lonestarroots Https://www.Instagram.com/lonestar_roots HOURS: Monday -Saturday 10-6 Sunday 12-5 Whether You’re A Native Texan, Got Here As Fast As You Could or just simply love our great state of Texas Lone Star Roots branded T-shirts, hats, aprons, tumblers & more are full of Texas pride & a whole lot of humor. We also collaborate with Texas businesses like El Arroyo & more to bring you the best of Texas gifts. Lone Star Roots is a proud Go Texan member. You’ll find us at Celina Friday Night Market, Celina City events too. DISCOUNTS FOR TBOC MEMBERS: BestofCelina 15% off our ENTIRE WEBSITE Texas Pride, Texas Humor, T-shirts, Texas Gifts, Texas hats Previous Next
- FIX IT RIGHT HOME SOLUTIONS | The Best Of Celina
< Back FIX IT RIGHT HOME SOLUTIONS 3120 Little Bluestem Celina Tx 75009 christopher.armentrout@gmail.com SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS: https://www.facebook.com/share/162B4QpURG/?mibextid=wwXIfr HOURS: Monday through Friday 9am-4pm I provide quality top notch home maintenance work. I do a wide variety of services for example Window washing, Power/Soft washing, dryer vent cleaning, AC coil cleaning. I provide many other services as well and look forward to helping you with your home. DISCOUNTS FOR TBOC MEMBERS: 15% off Professional, Quality, Reliable, Trustworthy,Honest Previous Next
- Business List (List) | The Best Of Celina
Celina Business Directory Florist The Petal Boss https://www.ThePetalBoss.com 4697902101 Unique & Memorable Floral Designs. More About This Business Handyman FIX IT RIGHT HOME SOLUTIONS 2145050119 I provide quality top notch home maintenance work. I do a wide variety of services for example Window washing, Power/Soft washing, dryer vent cleaning, AC coil cleaning. I provide many other services as well and look forward to helping you with your home. More About This Business Media Laguna Productions https://lagunaproductions.net 7025967759 All things media More About This Business Mortgage CMG Home Loans https://www.justinsteiner.com 4698558062 Residential Lending More About This Business Mortgage The Fortier Team Powered By All Square Mortgage https://www.thefortierteam.com 6826264663 Navigating the world of real estate financing can be complex. We simplify the process. Whether you're looking for a residential mortgage, commercial loan, land financing, or a hard money solution, we'll guide you every step of the way. More About This Business Nonprofit / Dog rescue Elm Animal Rescue https://www.elmanimalrescue.org 2147934319 Dog rescue and special needs livestock sanctuary More About This Business Photography Holly Farrow Photography 2146639901 Specialize in Senior, Family and Sports, maternity, newborn, and events. I also own a Photo Booth that I setup for special events, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Senior Graduation parties More About This Business Real Estate Grady Beck | Real Estate MatchMaker ♥️ https://www.GradyBeck.com 7602507000 Hello and welcome! I'm Grady Beck, your dedicated Real Estate Broker, licensed in Texas and California. With nearly two decades of experience since 2006, I've developed a deep understanding of local housing markets and a passion for guiding clients through their real estate journeys. Whether you're buying your dream home or selling for top dollar, I’m committed to delivering exceptional results. What sets me apart? Integrity and customer service. I prioritize my clients, offering personalized solutions that align with your unique needs. My expertise, combined with a strong network of resources, ensures you receive comprehensive support throughout every transaction. As one of the area's top real estate professionals, I’m proud to have helped countless clients build and liquidate their real estate portfolios. Let's work together to turn your real estate goals into reality. I’m here to help you succeed! More About This Business Roofing and Remodeling Hall of Fame Roofing and Construction https://www.halloffameconstruction.com 2147048854 Roofing and Remodeling More About This Business Travel Luxury Travel by Becky https://www.luxurytravelbybecky.com 9727541562 Luxury Travel by Becky is a boutique travel agency specializing in tailored international and domestic travel packages for solo travelers, couples, multi-generational groups, and group getaways. As a vacation advisor / planner, I curate unique luxury experiences to destinations around the world and major travel destinations within the United States. More About This Business


