A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION TheMeetingMagazines.com

Volume 4 • Number 3 $12.00

JUNE/JULY SSOCIATION 2011 CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES THE SOURCE FOR ASSOCIATION MEETING PLANNING MANAGEMENT

The Next Wave A Rising Tide of New Convention Center Hotels Is On the Horizon PAGE 22

Tom Faust, vice president, sales, Omni Hotels & Resorts Photo courtesy of Omni Hotels & Resorts& Hotels Omni of courtesy Photo

Gaming Resorts 12 | Diversity 18 | Orlando 28 Tapatio Cliffs In This Issue

A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION SSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES ATHE SOURCE FOR ASSOCIATION MEETING PLANNING MANAGEMENT June / July 2011 Volume 4 • Number 3 Departments

4 Publisher’s Page Features 12 6 News & Notes 12 The More the Merrier Squaw Peak New and Improved Gaming Resorts Give Planners More Options 6 Going Green & Giving Back By Derek Reveron

34 Career Track 18 Keep an Open Mind Rethinking Strategies to Address Diversity By George Seli 35 Direct Connect

22 The Next Wave A Rising Tide of New Convention Center Hotels Is On the Horizon 18 By Steve Winston ViewPoint

10 Catering Trends Have Your Cake and Eat It, Too: Keep F&B Quality High and Costs Low Destination Elevate your meetings By Linda E. Schwartz 28 Orlando Attendance and Infrastructure Are Booming By George Seli 28 On the Cover: The new Omni Dallas Hotel, which will connect to the Dallas Convention Center via skybridge on two different levels, will officially open two months ahead of schedule on November 11, 2011. Phoenix, Arizona Association Conventions & Facilities is published bi-monthly by Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 North Military Trail — Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394; 561-989-0600. Single copies $12.00 U.S.A. only. Yearly subscription price is $60.00 in the U.S.A. Canada and foreign is $105.00. Back copies $13.00 plus shipping and handling, U.S.A. only. Distributed without charge to qualified personnel. Postage Paid at Boca Raton, FL, and additional mailing offices. Application for periodical mailing permit pending at Boca Raton, FL, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send Form 3579 address changes to Association Conventions & Facilities, 2700 North Military Trail — Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394. Nothing contained in this publication shall constitute an endorsement by Coastal Communications Corporation (Association Conventions & Facilities), and the publication disclaims any liability with respect to the use of or reliance on any such information. The information contained in this publication is in no way to be construed as a recommendation by AC&F of any industry standard, or as a recommendation of any kind to be adopted by or to be binding upon any advertiser or subscriber. Reproduction of any portion of this publication by any means is strictly forbidden. Editorial contributions must be accompanied by return postage and will be handled with reasonable care. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited photographs or manuscripts. Subscribers: Send subscription inquiries and address changes to: Circulation Department, Association Conventions & Facilities, 2700 North Phone: 1-800-685-0550 | www.pointehilton.com Military Trail — Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394. Provide old and new addresses including zip code. Enclose address label from most recent issue and please allow five weeks for the change to become effective. Printed in U.S.A. © 2011.

TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 3 Publisher’s Page

A Harbinger of Better Times Ahead of schedule and on budget! Such an optimistic report on A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION WEBSITE a major hotel project sounds like wishful thinking. Yet the new Omni www.themeetingmagazines.com Dallas convention center hotel not only has achieved these milestones, PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF its grand opening will now take place two months early due to high Harvey Grotsky year-end demand: There are already 120 conventions on the books [email protected] CREATIVE DIRECTOR through 2017. Not that they need the talisman of lucky numbers, but Mitch D. Miller the opening date has been set for 11-11-11, perhaps just to keep the [email protected] good karma going. MANAGING EDITORS Susan W. Fell The Omni Dallas Hotel is a harbinger of better times ahead, a poster [email protected] child for the recovering economy. It’s heartening to know that despite Susan S. Gregg the credit crunch, major convention center hotel projects like this one [email protected] are breaking ground again. Why? Tom Faust, vice president of sales CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Karen Brost for Omni Hotels & Resorts, explains, “People have realized that you John Buchanan Stella Johnson can’t put off meetings forever; you need the face-to-face contact. And Andrea Montello convention center hotels offer ideal environments in which to have Derek Reveron George Seli it. …We’re convinced there’s a growing market for the convention Steve Winston center hotel. Planners and attendees today want memorable meetings PRESIDENT & CEO in interesting locations, without a lot of time or money wasted on Harvey Grotsky transportation.” Our story on page 22 details why convention center VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS David A. Middlebrook hotels provide the best ROI for planners and ROE for attendees, as [email protected] well as the latest news on up-and-coming and ongoing projects in ADVERTISING SALES OFFICES 2700 N. Military Trail, Suite 120 Washington, DC, Miami, Baltimore, Indianapolis, Columbus and beyond. Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 And then there’s Orlando, which has its own success story to tell 561-989-0600 Fax: 561-989-9509 on page 28. The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) reports NEW YORK & MID-ATLANTIC STATES 561-989-0600, ext. 114 • Fax: 561-989-9509 that convention and trade show attendance was up a whopping 23.5 [email protected] percent in April year-to-date with hotel occupancy at a three-year NEW ENGLAND high. The city’s meetings infrastructure is booming: The OCCC now has Jody Estabrook 774-283-4528 • Fax: 774-283-4527 skyway connections to three convention center hotels; the new Medical [email protected] City campus continues to expand; the Amway Center just opened; the FLORIDA/CARIBBEAN 561-989-0600, ext. 114 • Fax: 561-989-9509 international airport is beginning a two-year improvement project; and [email protected] Visit Orlando has rededicated itself to providing attendance-building SOUTHWEST and marketing support for its customers. 561-989-0600, ext. 114 • Fax: 561-989-9509 [email protected] Such investment in meetings infrastructure is a hopeful sign of an SOUTHEAST improving economy, but it’s the intangibles that will sustain it. Cindy 561-989-0600, ext. 114 • Fax: 561-989-9509 Wood, director of programs and meeting services at the American [email protected] Association of Nurse Anesthetists said it best: “For our people, using MIDWEST Jim Kingwill (convention center) hotels is like ‘going home’ to reconnect with old 847-537-9196 • Fax: 847-537-6519 [email protected] friends, to compare notes and to problem-solve.” Barry Kingwill 847-537-9196 • Fax: 847-537-6519 [email protected] WEST Marshall Rubin 818-888-2407 • Fax: 818-888-4907 [email protected] Harvey Grotsky CANADA 561-989-0600, ext. 114 • Fax: 561-989-9509 Publisher [email protected] HAWAII 561-989-0600, ext. 114 • Fax: 561-989-9509 [email protected]

4 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com GoingGreen & GivingBack News & Notes

APEX Green Meetings Standards Reach Milestone MPI Launches The Convention Industry Council (CIC) announced that the APEX- Disneyland Hotel Unveils Renovations led initiative to create standards for environmentally sustainable Competency Standards ANAHEIM, CA — Meeting professionals were events has reached a milestone: Eight of the nine draft standards have DALLAS, TX — Meeting Professionals among the more than 1,000 guests who par- completed review by the ASTM, which marks the completion of the consensus process for the development of the standards and clears International (MPI) in June released the ticipated in a June 2 gala unveiling enhance- them for final approval and ratification as official ASTM Standards. Meeting & Business Events Competency ments to the landmark The suite of standards, comprised of nine individual “sector” standards, covers Standards (MBECS). Disneyland Hotel in all facets of event planning and management: Audio-Visual, Communication & The standards were Southern California. They Marketing, Destinations, Exhibits, Food & Beverage, Meeting Venue, Onsite Office, collaboratively cre- include a scenic outdoor Transportation and Accommodations (undergoing final revisions). ated and designed event lawn, a luxurious “CIC is thrilled to report that the project has reached this stage,” states CIC CEO Karen Kotowski, CAE, CMP. “...We know there is much to quickly help a new themed suite, and anticipation in our industry for their completion. The process has meeting profes- courtyard upgrades that been long due to overwhelming interest from all parties, and we sional discern include a new water- are now right at the finish line.” www.conventionindustry.org which areas in their recreation area and pool- professional devel- Aguel side restaurant and bar. Clean the World, MPI Promote MacMillan opment they need “This is much more than a hotel refurbishment,” Industry Sustainability Practice. to pursue to advance their career. “These said George Aguel, senior vice president for The Attendees at Meeting Professionals standards are arguably one of the most Walt Disney Company. “Over the last three years International’s 2011 World Education Congress (July 23 – 26, 2011) in important resources we have ever had we created an almost entirely new Disneyland Orlando will have the opportunity in terms of professional development Hotel...it’s a powerful setting for meetings and to go offsite to help process soap and career enhancement,” said Bruce incentive programs alike.” Adjacent to the re- at Clean the World’s headquarters. MacMillan, MPI president and CEO. sort’s 136,000-sf convention center is the new The effort is just one of seven social MBECS is also a relevant tool in the Frontier Lawn, which can accommodate up to initiative projects available at WEC. day-to-day professional development 60 people for receptions. A second lawn will Clean the World is an Orlando, FL- based social enterprise that collects, of meeting and event professionals. open in the fall of 2011 and will feature 12,500 Among the attendees at Disneyland Hotel’s gala were (left to right) Laura Clean the World founder Shawn Seipler recycles and distributes gently used Students and academic instructors can sf of flexible space and a permanent stage. Fitzgerald, senior sales manager for the Disneyland Resort, Karen Conlon, (right) distributes soap in Haiti. The hotel soaps and bottled amenities to use the standards to influence curricu- www.disneylandmeetings.com president & CEO of the California Association of Community Managers Inc. and organization partners with hotels and help stop the spread of preventable Robert Donahue, director of resort sales and services for the Disneyland Resort. planners to recycle gently used products. lum and course selection, while hiring diseases. In just two years Clean the managers can develop more accurate World has distributed more than 8 million soap bars to children and families in job descriptions based on clearly de- HSMAI Rebrands Affordable Meetings nearly 45 countries, most of which were collected from more than 1,000 hotel Wyndham Grand Orlando partners throughout North America. fined competencies. Covering every MC LEAN, VA — The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International The latest development in the relationship between Clean the World and MPI area from strategic planning and event Resort to Open Near Disney (HSMAI) will unveil MEET at its national show September 7–8 in Washington, is the advancement of Clean the World’s meeting industry partner programs, design to stakeholder management and ORLANDO, FL — Wyndham Hotels and DC. In an effort to rebrand its mission and focus, the 20-year-old organization designed to assist planners with implementing sustainability practices during varying areas of communication, the 87 Resorts plans to complete the half-finished dropped the name Affordable Meetings in favor of MEET: the RFP process. The turnkey CSR initiative turns meetings into lifesaving events pages of standards are easy to navigate. Meetings, Events, Education, Technology. in which host properties and event attendees play a role in the collection and Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet shipping of soaps to the Clean the World headquarters, where the materials are The Convention Industry Council (CIC) Creek by this October. Located next to “With new show components, HSMAI’s MEET is processed and distributed to communities in need. www.cleantheworld.org aligned their recently updated CMP Walt Disney World, the 400-room Spanish more than just a new name,” says Fran Brasseux, International Standards to the MBECS/ Mediterranean-style hotel will comple- HSMAI executive vice president. “It’s entirely new and CTHRC standards (see page 8). The offers an inviting venue for learning and experiencing MPI Foundation Partnership Advances Sustainability Measurement. ment the adjacent Wyndham Bonnet Creek The MPI Foundation Canada, in partnership with Hotel Association of Canada Professional Convention Management Resort, the company’s flagship 1,600-unit all aspects of event planning. ...We are believers in (HAC), launched the Green Key Meetings (GKM) Program, a tool designed to Association (PCMA) also will be work- timeshare facility. The plans call for 20,000 the power of face-to-face interaction to build and assist meeting professionals by providing an index that measures a property’s ing closely with the CIC to align its CMP sf of flexible meeting and conference space maintain strong business relationships.” sustainability efforts. The program gives a score based on the same 1 to 5 (best) Online Prep Course and Professional including an 8,000-sf main ballroom; spa Gilbert MEET’s new components include: MEET University, scale used by the Green Key Global program, taking into account services, Meeting Management textbook and fitness center; 18-hole championship a revisioned educational program; TEEM Up, a reverse trade show buyer communication, activities, people and ancillary items. with the updated CMP International golf course; a full-service specialty restau- appointment expo; MEET Exhibitor Concierge; and MEET On, a virtual Said Didier Scaillet, MPI chief development officer, “The Green Key Program demonstrates the leadership of HAC and its members, and it’s encouraging for Standards. MPI’s new standards are rant; three-meal restaurant; pool bar and extension of the two-day conference. “We value the feedback of our the Foundation to align itself with an association which treasures the principles available free to download at mpiweb. grill; lobby bar and the Wyndham brand’s members and advisory boards in developing this exciting new event that of people, planet and profit.” Scored properties are listed on the GKM website, org/mbecs. For information on CIC’s new combination café, barista and food focuses on elements that truly fuel sales, inspire marketing and optimize a resource for planners seeking comprehensive data on environmentally CMP International Standards, visit mart. www.wyndham.com revenue,” says Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHA, president and CEO of HSMAI. conscious sites for meetings and events. www.greenkeymeetings.com www.conventionindustry.org. www.hsmaimeet.com

6 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 7 News & Notes

CMP Board Approves Business Travel Airfares Back New Ethics Statement and Revised CMP Blueprint to Pre-Recession Levels Policy for CMP Program Hilton Cancun Sold to Iberostar ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Certified Meeting NEW YORK, NY — American Express Global Business Travel released first ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Convention Professional (CMP) board of directors recently quarter figures on business travel pricing trends from its Business Travel Industry Council has released a new eth- announced the approval of a revised CMP Monitor for trips originating in North America and going to both do- ics statement and policy for the Certified Blueprint now known as the CMP International mestic and international destinations. Domestic airfares this quarter Meeting Professional (CMP) program. Standards, which define and categorize a have pushed past the pre-recession levels of Q1 2008 and hotel rates “The new ethics statement and disciplin- comprehensive summary of the competencies, are on the rise. Comparing Q1 2011 to Q1 2010, the study indicates ary policy are an extension of policies that skills and abilities a certificant must possess to be average domestic airfares increased 10 percent to $247, surpassing the were already in place within the program,” successful in his or her field. These competencies pre-recession average in Q1 2008 which was $233; average international states CIC CEO Karen Kotowski, CAE, CMP. are identified through a job analysis process, and airfares increased 8 percent to $1,866; average domestic hotel rates “Having both an ethics statement and this resulting document guides the development increased 3 percent to $150; and average international hotel rates in- an enforcement mechanism are a best of the examination. creased 4 percent (4%) to $238. practice and a necessity for all credible The next steps, according to Karen Kotowski, CAE, “Airfare increases have been expected given the rise in the cost of certification programs that set profes- CMP, CEO of the Convention Industry Council (CIC), oil and the return in demand in business travel,” says Christa Degnan sional standards. The ethics statement the industry body that administers the program Manning, director, eXpert insights research, American Express Global outlines norms of professional conduct Hilton Cancun will be renamed Iberostar Cancun December 1. and awards the CMP certification, will include de- Business Travel. “On top of this, airlines are continuing to form alliances that should guide and act as a compass PALMA DE MALLORCA, SPAIN — Iberostar Hotels & Resorts acquired its ninth property in velopment of additional exam questions to address and joint ventures. As prices continue to increase and capacity levels in day-to-day business dealings. The dis- Mexico by purchasing the 426-room Hilton Cancun, which will be renamed Iberostar any new competencies in the standard, and the remain tight, companies need to ensure they are following the market, ciplinary policy establishes procedures Cancun when it reopens December 1 as an all-inclusive Iberostar resort. Hilton will review of study materials to determine if additional reviewing travel spend and ensuring they are using suppliers and im- and avenues of recourse in the very rare continue operating the hotel until August when it will close for renovations to the materials need to be developed. Also, the CMP plementing policies that facilitate optimal cost-savings opportunities.” event when they are needed.” The ethics main lobbies and lobby bar, new pool terraces and a new buffet restaurant and board will move to computer-based testing in the The free report, “Business Travel: A Catalyst for Economic Performance,” resources are publicly available at www. four specialty restaurants. The property features more than 100,000 sf of indoor and second quarter of 2012. www.conventionindustry.org is available at www.WTTC.org. conventionindustry.org/CMP/Ethics.aspx. outdoor meeting space. www.iberostar.com

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2010 8 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 9

34377-B BM_famous_16.25x5.4375_acf_julaug_FNL.indd 1 6/15/11 12:23 PM View Point

Linda E. Schwartz

In light of tight budgets and changing tastes, event planners Catering Trends are becoming increasingly resourceful in their approach to food and beverage. F&B is a large part of most annual meeting budgets, and the onsite gastronomic experience can greatly Have Your Cake and Eat It, Too: enhance — or detract from — the attendees’ overall experience. Keep F&B Quality High and Costs Low uch like air travel, no one goes to a con- appointed, while others may not even notice and expensive selections at the bar. Promote the many cases, with part of the savings being used Mference mainly for the cuisine. However, the difference. themed drinks, and you’ll add to the excitement to enhance the F&B. For example, instead of a the quality of your onsite food and beverage 3 Vegetarian doesn’t mean a salad. It also while cutting your bar tab. Also, be aware that live band, groups are opting for a disc jockey for service greatly influences the overall attendee doesn’t mean a plate of soggy steamed veg- some hotels are imposing a bar setup fee in addi- a very limited number of hours or even piped-in experience, and meeting evaluations typically etables. Diet- and health-conscious individuals, in tion to the bartender fee: This can be difficult to music. Because one of the key benefits of any include numerous compliments and/or com- addition to vegetarians, are opting for the “veg- negotiate as it is not shown as a labor charge. conference is networking, attendees often appre- plaints about F&B. etarian meal” and they expect something both 7 “I’ll have what they’re having.” Talk to the ciate chatting with peers in a quieter atmosphere As the economy remains sluggish, most or- creative and tasty. venue about what is on the menu for the con- while enjoying good food and beverages. ganizations have been loathe to increase event 4 This won’t be the attendees’ last meal. ferences and meetings occurring right before Conference F&B truly is a moving target. registration fees over the past few years. At the Portion sizes are becoming more reasonable. and after your event. You should be able to save Yesterday’s “musts” (such as a full open bar, same time, hotels — much like the airlines — Rather than trying to stretch a tight budget by money if you piggyback on the other menus, as bottled water and live entertainment) are disap- are finding inventive and often subtle ways to serving a wide variety of lower-priced options, the chef can save by ordering a larger quantity of pearing faster than the proverbial tray of breakfast pass along price increases. work with the F&B staff to become more creative. the same food. breads (which, in turn, is being replaced by cereal Here are 10 tips from SmithBucklin and With a buffet, reducing just a few items from each 8 Make snack time healthful and fun. and fruit!). In light of tight budgets and changing Courtesy Associates Event Services profession- station can bring down the budget without less- Healthful snacks such as nutrition bars and fruit tastes, event planners are becoming increasingly als Jessica Cremer, Pat Dwyer, Rhonda Grizzard, ening the quality of the remaining choices. can strain your budget. Consider a “make your resourceful in their approach to food and bever- Melissa Huston, Eric Johnson, Perry Juliano, 5 Bottled water isn’t green — and it isn’t in- own trail mix” buffet, which was a big hit at one age. F&B is a large part of most annual meeting Kelly Marks, Regina Mohr and Susan Gilbert for expensive, either. Once the rage, bottled water recent conference — and far less expensive than budgets, and the onsite gastronomic experience controlling food and beverage expenses while is being eliminated from most bars, refreshment other options. can greatly enhance — or detract from — the meeting the expectations of today’s attendees. breaks and in other areas where high-consump- 9 RSVP, if you please. Many groups are asking attendees’ overall experience. A little imagination, 1 Do you want coffee with that cup? While tion/high-volume usage is expected. Water attendees to indicate in advance (via the registra- combined with experience and hard work, can the tables for a plated lunch typically include a stations (tap water in urns, pitchers, etc.) are be- tion form or other means) if they will attend the make your organization’s next moveable feast coffee cup in the setup, you may find that the coming the norm, and they are easier on the or- onsite lunches, dinners and receptions. This helps one that will garner rave reviews. AC&F hot java, along with iced tea, now carries an ex- ganization’s budget as well. Some hotels impose gauge attendance at each function so the event tra charge. Will your group be satisfied with just a one-time, per-person water charge to cover all staff can provide more accurate guarantees to Linda E. Schwartz, senior director, marketing and coffee, just iced tea or neither? tap water used by the group, typically ranging hotels and convention centers. Not only does this communication services for SmithBucklin, an association 2 Carbs are bad for you anyway. When from $0.75 to $0.95 per attendee. cut expenses, but it reduces food waste as well. management company headquartered in Chicago, has choosing a lunch or dinner menu, be aware 6 “I’ll have a White Cloud, please.” Offering one 10 Elvis has left the building. Entertainment worked with associations and their members for more than that bread and rolls may not be included in the or two specialty drinks themed to your event can at receptions, once thought to be necessary to 30 years to develop, implement and manage a broad range price of the meal. Some attendees may be dis- help reduce the need to have more expansive the overall experience, is being eliminated in of membership programs.

10 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 11 The More the Merrier New and Improved Gaming Resorts Give Planners By Derek Reveron More Options he number of new and expanded gam- as many as a dozen properties each with 3,000 ing resorts is growing, affording associa- rooms. Sands China will open early next year tion meeting planners multiple options alongside the Venetian resort on the Cotai Strip. for staging exciting, engaging confer- Steve Wynn and MGM Resorts International al- Photo courtesy of The Borgata The courtesyPhoto of ences and events. Gaming resorts pro- ready have a presence in Asia with more develop- Tvide an ideal setting for national, state and regional ment on the drawing board. Conferences held at gaming resorts often at- Casino, Bellagio, Vdara Hotel & Spa, MGM Grand Atlantic City’s Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa boasts a associations because they can satisfy all of their tract additional attendees, whether or not the fa- Las Vegas, Signature at MGM Grand, Mandalay 161,000-sf casino featuring meeting and entertainment needs at one facility multiyear contracts coming back cility has gaming floors that are near or separated Bay Resort & Casino, THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, 4,100 slot machines and usually under one roof. Gaming resorts nationwide are seeing an in- from meeting facilities — a consideration for some Monte Carlo, New York-New York Hotel & Casino and 200 table games. Nationally, about 15 states now have com- crease in association business. At Biloxi’s Beau meeting planners. That’s why many casino prop- and Excalibur Hotel & Casino. The properties offer mercial casinos and at least 29 states have Native Rivage Resort & Casino, state and regional associa- erties are designed so that delegates don’t have to a combined 2.4 million sf of meeting space, ball- American gaming facilities, and several states tions that book up to 700 rooms account for 60–65 walk through a gaming space to get to meeting and rooms, breakout rooms and prefunction space. have both types of gaming. More states are con- percent of the property’s business, according to a conference facilities. As one property spokesper- Caesars Entertainment operates 52 casinos in sidering new gaming projects to increase rev- spokesperson. The bookings have remained rela- son touts, “Everyone knows that Las Vegas hotels six countries and several properties in Las Vegas, enues. Also, existing gaming resorts continue to tively the same, but attendance is up compared to have casinos. It’s like an additional amenity.” including Caesars Palace, Rio All-Suite Hotel & Dawn Slykhouse renovate and expand to meet the demands of the last year because many organizations bring addi- Casino, Imperial Palace, Bally’s Las Vegas, Planet President association meetings market. tional people to man their booths. Las Vegas Hollywood Resort & Casino, Harrah’s Las Vegas, Face to Face Events This growth reaches globally as well. Las Vegas At the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa in As the nation’s No. 1 gaming destination and a Paris Las Vegas and Flamingo Las Vegas. Santa Clara, CA Sands Corp. is planning on expanding its integrat- Las Vegas, the situation is similar. According to magnet for association conferences, Las Vegas of- In May, Caesars Entertainment introduced ed resort model to several more a spokesperson, there’s an uptick in association fers more than 148,000 hotel rooms and more than Total Rewards Meetings & Events, a loyalty and “We were looking for the countries, according to chair- business and the bookings for the next few years 10.5 million sf of meeting and exhibition space. Las reward program for convention and meeting one-stop-shop meeting man and CEO Sheldon Adelson, are about double from last year. South Point Hotel, Vegas is also the nation’s top trade show destination customers. The program allows customers to the visionary behind the com- Casino & Spa maintains the same convention rate, According to the 2010 Las Vegas Convention and earn Total Rewards credits for events they hold fee where we could pany’s successful casinos and re- meeting room or exhibit hall rental and adds a 5 Visitors Authority’s (LCVA) 2010 Visitor Profile at Caesars Entertainment properties in North incorporate our meeting sorts from Las Vegas to Macau to 7 percent increase for the room rates and keeps Study, 52 percent of people attending conferences America. Under the program, clients can earn one space, AV, food and and Singapore. Adelson says food and beverage increases to no more than and trade shows in Las Vegas come because they credit for each dollar paid by a master account. he’s interested in Japan, Korea, around five percent, says the spokesperson. are held in the city. Located only minutes from The Strip on the beverage and networking Taiwan and Vietnam as well as Multiyear bookings are rising as dates become Las Vegas is packed with several world-famous south end of Las Vegas Boulevard, South Point all in one price per day, Europe. The company wants less available. For example, one of South Point gaming properties that offer an array of options Hotel Casino & Spa’s 2,163 guest rooms offer per person. It was a to develop a EuroVegas “Strip” Hotel’s repeat clients requested dates for 2011 that for association meeting planners. One of the most great views of the Las Vegas valley and nearby in either Madrid or Barcelona were no longer available so, to avoid that problem prominent Las Vegas resort property operators is mountains. Planners can use 170,000 sf of flexi- great package and an along the lines of its Cotai Strip in the future, the association signed a multiyear MGM Resorts International, which owns several ble meeting space and a 4,600-seat arena. There’s outstanding experience.” in Macau but twice as large: contract to lock in dates and rates. properties including The Mirage, Aria Resort & also a 16-screen movie complex and a 72-lane

12 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 13 bowling alley. The property’s casino was expand- percent of the attendees hail from countries world- sf European-style spa. The Borgata is also home to ed to 55,000 sf. wide, including Brazil, Egypt, North America, the 800-room Water Club at Borgata, which fea- Wynn Las Vegas and Encore hold more Forbes Israel, Europe and Asia, says Dawn Slykhouse, tures a cosmopolitan hotel atmosphere. The facility Five Star awards than any other casino resort in the president of Face To Face events, a Santa Clara, features Immersion, a 36,000-sf European-type spa world. Together, the two properties provide a total CA-based independent meeting, event and trade and 18,000 sf of meeting space. of more than 4,700 guest rooms and 260,000 sf of show planning firm. Celebrity chef restaurants star at Borgata: meeting space. All of Wynn’s 2,716 rooms will be The IEEE selected the Marina Bay Sands as the Bobby Flay Steak, SeaBlue, Wolfgang Puck refurbished by the end of this year. The property site of its first international meeting partly because American Grille, Izakaya and Fornelletto join the is also home to an 18-hole golf course and three of its space and amenities. “It has been challenging Old Homestead Steakhouse, a New York City ballrooms, the largest of which is 50,000 sf. for us to find the amount of meeting space we de- landmark. The Metropolitan Café, Oyster Bar The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino and the sire for this meeting with breakout rooms. We have and Gelato Bar; Gypsy Bar; B Bar; Borgata Buffet, Palazzo Las Vegas, located alongside each other about 45 meetings running every day. The meeting Noodles of the World (N.O.W.) and Roma are also on The Strip, are very popular with associations space was flexible and very accommodative to this onsite at the Borgata. courtesyPhoto of Mohegan Sun because of the adjacent Sands Expo Convention type of meeting,” says Slykhouse. She also noted Top acts such as Carly Simon, Aerosmith and Association (CSDA) marked its 10th consecutive Mohegan Sun’s spectacular 55-foot indoor waterfall at Center, which offers 2.2 million sf of flexible meet- the great value. “We were looking for the one-stop- Sting have performed at the property’s 2,400-seat year at the resort, it also received the first plaque the Taughannick Falls Bar ing space, including an 85,000-sf ballroom. shop meeting fee where we could incorporate our event center, and The Music Box, a 1,000-seat on the Mohegan Sun Wall of Fame and a custom- marks the spot to meet The two Las Vegas Sands Corp. properties, meeting space, AV, food and beverage and net- theater hosts more intimate events and is home ized “tooth” cake created by Lynn Mansel, the ex- fellow conventioneers. which are also part of the InterContinental Hotels working all in one price per day, per person. It was to Borgata’s nightly Comedy Club. Borgata’s four ecutive pastry chef. Mohegan Sun will continue to Group (IHG) portfolio of properties, comprise a great package and an outstanding experience. We nightlife hotspots include Gypsy Bar, B Bar, MIXX, recognize valued customers who book consecutive one of the biggest five-di- want to take this group as well as other groups back and mur.mur. annual events with a special customized ceremony. amond hotel and gaming if we get the right deals again,” adds Slykhouse. Connecticut’s other large gaming facility is resort complexes in the Connecticut Foxwoods Resort Casino. The resort features four world. The two hotels of- Atlantic City Long known as the capital of the insurance in- hotels — the MGM Grand at Foxwoods, Great fer more than 8,000 guest In recent years, Atlantic City has faced more dustry and the home of Yale University, Connecticut Cedar Hotel, Grand Pequot Tower and Two Trees rooms and suites. competition for its Northeastern base of custom- also features two large Native American-operated Inn — which provide a total of more than 2,200 ers from other gaming resorts in the region. In or- gaming properties between New York and Boston. guest rooms and more than 150,000 sf of flexible ASIA der to help maintain its competitive edge, the state Located in Uncasville and owned by the meeting space. MGM Grand at Foxwoods’s 50,000- Las Vegas Sands Corp. of New Jersey recently created a new nonprofit Mohegan Tribe, the Mohegan Sun provides a sf ballroom accommodates 4,000 guests and the also owns the Marina group, the Atlantic City Alliance (ACC), to mar- 1,200-room hotel, more than 100,000 sf of meeting MGM Theater seats 4,000 people. The popular re- Bay Sands in Singapore, ket Atlantic City. The Atlantic City Convention & space and a 38,000-sf ballroom. The Mohegan Sun sort offers more than 35 restaurants, bowling alleys, Rendering courtesy of Revel which opened last year Visitors Authority (ACCVA) will focus on increas- Arena, complete with the latest sound and lighting two theaters and an outdoor pool as well as two According to a recent and is one of the top resort, convention and ex- ing convention business. New Jersey law requires systems, seats 10,000 guests and offers 30,000 sf of 18-hole golf courses. announcement by CEO Kevin DeSanctis, the 1,090- hibition properties in Southeast Asia. The Marina casinos with more than $1 billion invested in flexible exhibition space. A 17,500-sf outdoor ter- Much of Foxwoods’ association business room Revel is slated to Bay Sands features 2,560 rooms, 1.3 million sf of Atlantic City to participate and help fund the ACC, race provides space for cocktails and receptions. comes from Northeastern-based regional and open in Atlantic City in May flexible convention and exhibition space and an which is also partly financed by state gaming taxes. The popular meeting resort features several restau- state organizations, many of which are repeat 2012, featuring 160,000 sf of convention space. 86,000-sf ballroom, the largest in Southeast Asia. Revel Entertainment Group LLC has resumed rants, including fine dining choices such as Bobby customers. Customers include the Greater The property also includes a shopping mall, an out- work on its $2.4 billion Revel hotel-casino project Flay’s Bar Americain, Todd English’s Tuscany New England Minority Supplier Development door event plaza and top entertainment, includ- after financial difficulties and delays. The beach- and Michael Jordan’s Steak House. On the casual Council (GNEMSDC), based in Hamden, CT. Last ing The Lion King and the ArtScience Museum at front property will offer at least 1,090 guest rooms, side, attendees have a choice of Big Bubba’s BBQ, September, the GNEMSDC met at Foxwoods for Marina Bay Sands. 160,000 sf of meeting space, a 5,800-seat arena with chef Bobby Flay’s Burger Palace, Jimmy Buffet’s the 15th consecutive year. The three-day meeting In March, a committee of the Institute of retractable seating and a 40,000-sf ballroom. Revel Margaritaville and more. attracted 1,500 members and 160 exhibitors from Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) held will include a unique feature — a two-acre rooftop Mohegan Sun features an 18-hole golf course throughout New England. a five-day meeting for about 800 attendees at the landscaped outdoor deck with thousands of plants and a 23,000-sf spa with 21 treatment rooms. Why did the association choose Foxwoods? “It Marina Bay Sands. The group meets three times and views of the ocean. The property is scheduled Mohegan Sun Country Club at Pautipaug, located is in itself both a draw and a destination,” says Fred a year. Prior to meeting at the Marina Bay Sands, to open in May 2012. 15 minutes away, is undergoing a redesign and McKinney, president of the GNEMSDC. “That’s the group held its meetings in North America. One of Atlantic City’s existing linchpin prop- complete renovation. It will reopen in April 2012. always helpful to attendance. People want to go However, starting with the meeting at the Marina erties, the chic Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, fea- In May, Mohegan Sun launched a new Wall of to the facility to meet and play and be entertained. Bay Sands, the group plans to hold one of its three tures 2,000 rooms and more than 70,000 sf of Fame, a dedicated wall honoring clients who have There’s high quality meeting space. I like the AV ca- yearly meetings outside of North America due to meeting space. In addition, the property offers a hosted events at Mohegan Sun for numerous con- pabilities and the quality of the staff. We get a quick its growing international membership. About 65 161,000-sf casino floor and Spa Toccare, a 54,000- secutive years. As the Connecticut State Dental response — they have people walking around with

14 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 15 walkie-talkies and cell marketers, convenience store owners and those phones — to address any who sell products to the stores. Most attendees issue that might come up. came from Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana, Plus, we get a good deal.” and others hailed from Texas, Arkansas, Florida and Tennessee. The first day of the meeting - in MORE Native cluded a golf tournament, networking and busi- American gaming ness meetings, and a banquet featuring a live band Established by the and former Alabama football coach Gene Stallings Photo courtesyPhoto of GNEMSDC Tulalip Tribes in 1983 as as speaker. The second day was dedicated to the The Greater New England a bingo hall, the Tulalip Resort Casino is located trade show, which included about 125 exhibitors Minority Supplier Development Council 30 minutes from Seattle on the Tulalip Indian at the nearby Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum & based in Hamden, CT, finds Reservation. Last year, the resort opened a new Convention Center. Attendees enjoyed gaming in Foxwoods Resort to be 370-room luxury hotel that offers 30,000 sf of their spare time. the ideal venue for their Trade Expo. They recently meeting space, a 14,000-sf spa and scenic views Lauren Hodge, director, industry relations convened there for the of Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains. The and meetings, P&CMA, says that the physical 15th consecutive year. resort also features a 3,000-seat amphitheater en- separation of the meeting and gaming facilities tertainment venue and 192,000 sf of gaming space. is appealing. “The Beau Rivage is more than just Talking Stick Resort, located in Scottsdale, AZ, a casino atmosphere. They have everything you 15 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, need for a meeting, including great convention opened last year with 497 guest rooms and more staff that is easy to work with,” says Hodge. Value than 100,000 sf of indoor and outdoor conference is another major reason why the P&CMA has space. Developed by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa met at the Beau Rivage. “They are very competi- Indian Community, the 15-story Talking Stick of- tive. They want to keep our business, and we have fers 12 conference rooms, a 240,000-sf gaming a good relationship with them. We get different floor and a 13,000-sf spa. Native American exhib- quotes from different resorts, and our committee its and art adorn the property, which includes a hasn’t made a final decision, but we hope to go 25,000-sf ballroom. back,” Hodge added. In Florida, the 500-room Seminole Hard Rock The Beau Rivage offers more guest rooms and Hotel & Casino boasts all that planners need for suites (1,740), and meeting space (50,000 sf) than Fred McKinney successful meetings. Located in Hollywood, FL, a any other facility on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. President few miles from Fort Lauderdale, the property fea- Owned by MGM Resorts International, the Beau Greater New England Minority tures 40,000 sf of meeting and exhibition space, in- Rivage provides a 20,000-sf spa and salon and a Supplier Development Council cluding a 16,000-sf ballroom. The 130,000-sf casino 1,550-seat theater. Located less than a 30-minute Hamden, CT includes more than 2,300 games and slots. Planners drive from the resort, the Fallen Oak golf resort can use a 7,000-sf poolside area was designed especially for Beau Rivage. The 18- “It (Foxwoods Resort) for outdoor functions. The 5,500- hole luxury golf resort features a spacious club- is in itself both a draw seat Hard Rock Live indoor arena house on more than 500 acres. Earlier this year, the and a destination. has featured performances by Beau Rivage opened Stalla, an Italian restaurant. stars such as Bill Cosby, Lionel That’s always helpful to Richie and ZZ Top. The arena is Final Thoughts attendance. People want also available for meetings. Association meeting planners who need a lux- to go to the facility to urious under-one-roof facility, exciting built-in Gulf Coast entertainment, and surprising value for their next meet and play and be In February, the Gulf Coast annual conference can find all that and more at a entertained. There’s high Food & Fuel Expo held its Petro­ gaming resort. Organizations with a contingent quality meeting space.” leum & Convenience Marketers of international members will find plenty of gam- of Alabama (P&CMA) at the ing resort options in Asia and around the globe. Beau Rivage Resort & Casino in Biloxi, MS, for the And delegates don’t even have to step into the third consecutive year. The two-day regional trade bustling casino unless, of course, they feel a lucky show and meeting attracted about 850 petroleum streak coming on. AC&F

16 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com

BOR_18033_JustMeetings_ACF_AD.indd 1 5/9/11 3:46:01 PM to retool its educational programming, network- The AAOS is one example, with members from ing opportunities and other offerings to ensure all other countries attending its annual meeting. And members will find value. It may also call for new the supply chain industry “has always been global,” marketing channels: reaching out to younger mem- Jarvie notes. “In that organization our members lit- bers via social media, for example. “Associations are erally led the world into global business, and so it was Keep an Open Mind trying to appeal to a broader range of ages,” says Teri natural for us to try to do meetings in other countries. By George Seli Rethinking Strategies Elliott Jarvie, CMP, vice president, member pro- Probably 14 percent of our annual meeting atten- Karen Hackett grams with the Association Forum of Chicagoland. dance was from outside the U.S. There are many or- CEO ssociation memberships, like the U.S. “Most people would say our membership is aging, ganizations for which that percentage is much higher.” American Academy of work force, often represent a variety to Address Diversity but we are also looking to reach young profession- Jarvie notes that diversity marketing is a popular Orthopaedic Surgeons of ethnicities, cultures, age brackets, Hackett adds. “We also have a diversity advisory als and help them understand the lifecycle of cra- topic at the Forum, as many associations continue Rosemont, IL professional experience levels and board, and they work to promote orthopedics to dle-to-grave membership.” to see their target audiences rep- other kinds of diversity. It’s part of minority populations.” resent a variety of ethnicities, ages “We recognize a different Awhat makes networking during the annual con- Globalization and other demographic features. country at each New Generations vention so enriching for delegates. Naturally, then, Members of all ages do tend to have one impor- Typically, associations learn annual meeting and diversity is “on the agenda” of executive directors, Ethnic diversity among the membership tends tant feature in common these days: They’re increas- about the characteristics of their planners and marketing teams, whether they aim to develop as an association expands its geograph- ingly becoming “global” professionals, versed in the memberships through periodic so encourage surgeons to cater to a diverse membership or, in some cases, ic reach. For example, when Moline, IL-based global economy, well-traveled and communicating surveys as well as the registra- from that country to diversify that membership even further. American Rental Association (ARA) began in the virtually with peers in other countries. That’s in line tion process for new members come. ...We recognize Just one example of an association involved mid-1950s, the first members were rental busi- with the globalizing nature of many fields, which in and convention registration. The in the latter activity is the American Academy ness owners concentrated mainly in the Midwest, turn can culturally diversify the memberships of as- ARA, for instance, sends a “demo- them during the opening of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). “We at the but “now there are members in every state, every sociations serving those fields. graphic update” to its members ceremony, we give them Academy are working very hard to have orthopedic Canadian province and all throughout the world A U.S. association needn’t work to become inter- annually, “and they are good at a booth...and we host surgeons be more diverse, and we’re making some — more than 40 countries,” reports Chris Coleman, national for this to happen, notes Jarvie, former di- responding and providing this in- headway in that respect as it relates to race, ethnic- ARA marketing manager. Also in those 50-plus years, rector of meeting services for the Council of Supply formation,” says Coleman. a reception for them.” ity and also very importantly gender,” notes Karen new generations have joined rental businesses and Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP). “Many With that data in hand, an association can de- Hackett, CEO of AAOS and chair of the ASAE. the ARA itself, including fourth generations of fami- associations now are becoming global or collaborat- sign its materials, including marketing pieces, to be “Currently, only less than 4 percent of the Academy lies in some instances, according to Coleman. “The ing with a global organization, but the business world appropriately inclusive in terms of language and fellows, namely those who are board certified and newer generations in the businesses are going to col- itself is also becoming more global. We’re becoming visuals. Stock art that shows racial and generational have been in practice for a couple years, are female. lege and graduate school to get a business education much more connected in the course of the business diversity is a common vehicle, but the ARA takes It’s increasing, but just slightly.” to help them be more successful as well, which wasn’t that we do.” Thus, an American association serving a a different approach to visuals, one that directly Toward increasing it more, the AAOS’ women’s as common in the early years of the association.” globally vibrant field, especially one in which the U.S. reflects the “face” of the membership. “We actually health issues advisory board tries to “spread the Like any other demographic shift, a diversifica- is a world leader, may well accrue some international don’t use much stock art in our marketing materi- word that women can be successful in orthopedics,” tion in member ages often calls for an association membership and, hence, cultural diversification. als. We take pictures at all of our association events Shutterstock.com

18 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 19 — the convention, leadership training for the state/ F&B choices, need not reflect the demographics social media, just through direct mail,” says Lee. “The ask the question, but don’t assume that it’s wrong or local association volunteers, a legislative caucus held of the target audience. “For example, you may be reality is that all of us receive information from a even unusual in that destination. Each country is a in Washington, DC, annually and more — as well as holding a meeting in Barcelona, but your target au- number of different sources. All the channels are im- new adventure, so the best way to arm yourself is to get pictures from those in the membership to use in dience may not be people from Spain — you may portant individually as well as collectively.” have no assumptions and really look at things with a all of our marketing,” Coleman explains. “Members want to attract people from all over Europe,” Jarvie Regarding meetings in particular, all the informa- completely open mind,” Jarvie advises. “Your facility can see pictures of their peers and themselves as we explains. “Marketing has become much more com- tion that positions a convention as “not to be missed” representative, PCO (professional congress organiz- market the association, the convention, educational plex than it used to be, when we were only market- — abstracts on cutting-edge topics, session descrip- er), national as well as city convention authorities can Teri Elliott Jarvie, CMP opportunities and so forth.” ing to smaller audiences.” tions, speaker bios, networking-event promotions, be really helpful in guiding you through these kinds V.P. Member Services One resource for marketing to a broader, more dining guides for the city — can be made available via of decisions. The other great reference is peers who Association Forum of Chicagoland Speak the Same Language diverse audience may be the association’s own everything from booklets to mobile apps. One may are planning international meetings, because there Chicago, IL As far as language, a U.S. association offering ma- staff. Outreach to the Asian population, to senior also highlight the meeting’s offerings to members are more and more people now terials in English doesn’t necessarily send a message citizens, and so on, naturally benefits from input within certain demographic segments. A good case- who have done it. So use your pro- “If something looks of exclusion to members (or potential members) by staff members who reflect these demographics. in-point is the AAOS’ “guest nation program” at its fessional organizations.” unusual to you...don’t who have a different native tongue, since there is Understanding the nuances of the target audience annual meeting, which has been in place since 2005 Making marketing decisions widespread proficiency with English among the in- can of course be achieved by other means, but if toward the goal of bolstering international member- sans research or consultation assume that it’s wrong ternational business and science communities. But if some staffers “are part of the audience that you’re try- ship. “We recognize a different country at each an- is a risky proposition, given the ...in that destination. an association is trying to attract professionals of a ing to connect with, they may come up with some nual meeting and so encourage surgeons from that complexities that can be involved. Each country is a new certain nationality or geographic region, it is advan- things you wouldn’t have thought of,” Lee points out. country to come to our meeting,” says Hackett. “We Some mistakes are fairly obvious tageous to try to make that audience as comfortable Members themselves also can be a touchstone recognize them during the opening ceremony, we and easy to avoid, such as staffing adventure, so the best as possible by offering content in their native lan- on demographically based preferences. If one wants give them a booth to set up and talk about what a booth without representing the way to arm yourself is to guage as well as English. to increase membership from professionals in they’re doing in their country, and we host a recep- kind of demographic segment the have no assumptions and Robb Lee, chief marketing and communications Barcelona, for instance, one would want to take care tion for them. They become more engaged, and association wants to attract. really look at things with officer for the ASAE, illustrates this point: “Let’s say to use the term “Catalonian” instead of “Spanish” in they tend to join the Academy as a result of that.” The AAOS’ effort to expand I speak French and you’re speaking English to me. referencing the city’s people, Jarvie notes. “The na- Naturally, the reception features cuisine indigenous its female membership naturally a completely open mind.” You may end up speaking French to me, but if all of tive people in Barcelona do not consider themselves to the guest nation. guides its booth staffing at the AMA (American your materials are in English, you still are making a Spanish, they’re Catalonian,” she says, and members Medical Association) annual meeting, specifically on determination that I’m OK receiving your materials from that city might well enlighten U.S. marketers on Keep an Open Mind the day where the students visit different booths and in English, and that may not be the case. English is a that linguistic point. In practice, a meeting will market the association learn about different specialties. “We always make Chris Coleman viable language throughout much of the world. That to professionals hailing from the destination, many of sure that we have some diversity at that booth to try Marketing Manager said, however, it’s about what your audience needs in Get the Message Across whom will find it convenient to attend. Thus, a plan- to show that orthopedics is a welcoming specialty. American Rental Association order to engage with you.” The subtleties of communication are compound- ner will want to ensure the event respects the social So we’ll have a female orthopedic resident who can Moline, IL The AAOS, for example, is trying to increase en- ed with the range of communication vehicles avail- norms of that country or region of the world. “You of relate to the medical students,” Hackett comments. gagement with orthopedic sur- able in the Internet age. “We make efforts to utilize course would want to introduce and represent your But other mistakes are less obvious, because they “The newer generations in geons on a global level. “In the U.S. the variety of communications channels we have to own country, but you want to be able to give local are based in what seem to be plausible assumptions. the businesses are going we have as members 98 percent spread the word about the various educational pro- attendees a level of comfort and somewhat of their For example, one might think that having speakers of all orthopedic surgeons who grams — emails, direct mail, our websites, articles preference,” Jarvie says. For instance, when in Europe, representing various nations would make the asso- to college and graduate are eligible. So our growth oppor- in all of our publications, even social media,” says take coffee breaks like the Europeans do — with juice ciation more appealing to a global audience. Yet that’s school to get a business tunity in membership would be Coleman, adding that the ARA has Facebook and on the menu. “As a relatively new planner to inter- not necessarily so. “You have to understand your au- education to help them in the international area,” Hackett Twitter pages plus a LinkedIn group for The Rental national meetings, you have to avoid imposing your dience because in many disciplines they want U.S. says. Given that marketing focus, Show, and “we use these to promote the convention own expectations of what a coffee break really is. research or U.S. speakers. be more successful as “we translate some of our mate- educational programs in particular, but also to pro- They drink a great deal more juice than we do and In the case of the CSCMP, in many cases what well, which wasn’t as rials, including our journal, into mote the education available throughout the year.” don’t drink water as much. they wanted were speakers from the supply chain in- common in the early other languages” despite the fact While it’s statistically true that promotions sent “If you looked at a facility menu and wondered dustry in the U.S. because we have the best practices,” years of the association.” that “most of our international via social media will reach more of the younger why there is orange juice on it all day long, that’s what says Jarvie. And catering to the educational desires members who come to our an- members, that’s no basis for limiting information they prefer,” says Jarvie, drawing on her experience of members quite arguably trumps the objective to nual meeting are fairly proficient in English.” geared toward those groups to that medium. Casting planning a CSCMP meeting in Rotterdam. Similarly, display cultural diversity. “So it’s back to that market a wide net is the best way to ensure that information when convening in Spain — and assuming local pro- research, back to using the expertise of your mem- Target Audiences reaches its intended audience. “No one is making fessionals are part of the target audience — one might bers and perhaps your staff,” she concludes, “so that The culture of the city where a convention takes decisions based on one particular exposure or be- allot more time for lunch, the main meal of the day when you design the program, you don’t go in with place, though it may inspire entertainment and coming aware of a program or an event just through in that country. “If something looks unusual to you, all these preconceptions.” AC&F

20 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 21 “Our intent is to avoid cookie-cutter layouts. We want our new convention center hotels to reflect the TheBy Steve Winston Next Wave spirit and the culture A Rising Tide of of their cities, so that here are a hundred reasons not to attendees can have a build new convention center hotels. New Convention After the economic trauma of the past truly ‘local’ experience.” few years, municipalities are no lon- Tom Faust Vice President, Sales ger receiving the tax revenues they Center Hotels Is Omni Hotels & Resorts Tonce were and can offer little help with footing Irving, TX the bill. Investors, wary of such huge projects, are hesitant to help developers and hotel companies On the Horizon

build them. Downtowns in most major cities are you’re meeting because there’s a need for personal Among the Dallas city already built out, which means that you’d have to contact and face-to-face, it’s much more efficient officials and Omni knock something down in order to put something than scattering your attendees among different this new Omni, they’ll be better prepared executives who attended the Omni Dallas Hotel’s up. And, even if the land’s available, again, the hotels. And it’s a much more efficient way of en- to respond to RFPs requiring a hotel at the topping out ceremony costs are prohibitive. suring that more of your people actually attend the convention center. If you’re bidding for a were (above l to r) Phillip “No doubt about it, these ventures are risky,” says sessions, instead of skipping out. convention, and you can’t answer ‘yes’ to that Jones, president and CEO of the Dallas CVB; Bobby Bowers, senior vice president of Nashville- “When your sleeping rooms are next to the question, it can knock you out of the running.” Tyrus Sanders, chairman based Smith Travel Research, which tracks hotel- meeting venue,” he adds, “it helps keep your group Sexton notes there are inherent advantages of the Dallas CVB; Ed industry performance. “These hotels are hard to together. And it creates a more congenial atmo- to using hotels adjacent to convention centers, Netzhammer, Omni Hotels; and (second from right) finance. They’re big, complex projects that often sphere for networking and problem-solving.” such as reducing transportation costs and Tom Faust, Omni Hotels. require government assistance. And we’re not maximizing attendees’ ROE (return on event). completely out of the economic woods yet.” Major Projects in the Pipeline “Association meetings today need to have courtesyPhotos & Resorts of Omni Hotels Acknowledging the challenges of funding such Bowers notes that there are significant proj- demonstrable benefits for the attendees,” a new four-star brand in town that planners may The Omni Nashville Hotel will serve as the projects, Ted Mandigo, CPA, ISHC, president/ ects currently underway that are either adjacent she says. “They may not want to leave home for not have considered before. And the decision to headquarters hotel for founder of hospitality consulting company TR to or attached to existing (or upcoming) conven- the better part of a week if they don’t think the build our new Dallas convention center hotel was the Music City Convention Center. Both new Mandigo & Co., says, “It’s interesting that several tion centers. networking, idea-generation and training oppor- a direct result of the success in Fort Worth.” developments are slated companies are still doing them. I think there’s a “There are some big ones scheduled to come tunities are sufficient. And keeping your people Business has been brisk at the 614-room for completion in 2013. growing recognition of the advantages — that, if online in the next few years,” Bowers says. together for a longer time can enhance all of Omni Fort Worth, which features 68,000 sf of “Washington, DC, is getting a Marriott Marquis these opportunities.” meeting space. at the (Walter E.) Washington Convention Center, Sexton’s now planning next year’s PCMA Due to high year-end demand, the new Omni and a new Marriott just opened last year at the Annual Convening Leaders Meeting at the San Dallas Hotel will hold its grand opening two (Indiana) Convention Center in Indianapolis. Diego Convention Center. Approximately 4,000 months early on November 11, 2011. Reservations Omni Hotels is building a big one in Dallas. Here attendees will be housed in six hotels that con- are now being accepted for the 1,001-room hotel. in Nashville, another Omni project has already nect to the center. Ed Netzhammer, regional vice president of Omni been approved and is projected to be finished by Hotels and Resorts told a local news outlet, “We June of 2013, right next to a brand new conven- OMNI’S TAKING THE PLUNGE have just over 120 conventions already booked at tion center. And construction of a new Hilton is Omni’s new properties in Dallas and Nashville the hotel, and that goes all the way out through now underway next to the (Greater Columbus) will be technologically advanced and artfully 2017.” The LEED Silver-certified Omni Dallas Convention Center in Columbus, OH.” appointed. Hotel will connect to the Dallas Convention Deborah Sexton, president and CEO of “Convention center hotels are a growing seg- Center via skybridge on two different levels. The the Professional Convention Management ment of our business,” says Tom Faust, vice presi- hotel will offer more than 110,000 sf of flexible Association (PCMA), believes that, with the loos- dent, sales, for Omni Hotels & Resorts. “The Omni meeting and event space including 21 meeting ening up of the economy, we’re going to see more Fort Worth Hotel, which we opened in 2009 across rooms, and the grand and junior ballrooms, en- convention center hotels built in the near-future. the street from the Fort Worth Convention Center, compassing 32,000 sf and 15,000 sf respectively.

Photo courtesyPhoto & Resorts of Omni Hotels “Take Dallas, for example,” says Sexton. “With was a watershed for us. All of a sudden there was The new Omni Nashville Hotel, scheduled for

22 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 23 that includes four other Marriott hotels. All five vated are the Hyatt Regency Phoenix adjacent to hotels (total 2,248 rooms) connect to the newly the Phoenix Convention Center; Chicago’s Hyatt expanded Indiana Convention Center. Regency McCormick Place; the Hyatt Regency And Marriott has another big project in the Indianapolis at the Indiana Convention Center; works. and the Hyatt Regency Miami, overlooking the When the Washington Marriott Marquis opens Miami River and Biscayne Bay, and attached to the in DC in 2014, it will be one of only five Marriott James L. Knight International Center, the Miami Marquis properties in the U.S. The four-star ho- Convention Center. tel will incorporate the historic Samuel Gompers AFL-CIO building (known as the “Plumbers HILTON’S A VETERAN The Hilton Columbus Photo courtesy of Visit IndyVisit courtesyPhoto of Building”) into the property, and will be con- Hilton Hotels has 15 convention center hotels Downtown will open in 2012. A glass walkway The JW Marriott completion in 2013, will have 800 guest rooms and nected to the Walter E. Washington Convention around the country, ranging from big cities such Indianapolis opened will connect it to the earlier this year as the 80,000 sf of meeting space. It will be located adja- Center via an underground walkway, allowing as Houston to small towns like Branson, MO. Its Greater Columbus world’s largest JW Marriott. cent to the 1.2-million-sf Music City Convention conventioneers to access the convention center newest property is the Hilton Orlando, which Convention Center and

Photo courtesyPhoto of Hilton Hotels Nationwide Arena. It’s connected to the Center currently under construction and slated directly from the hotel’s ballroom level (under- opened in September 2009. The 1,400-room newly expanded Indiana Convention Center. for a 2013 opening. It will be steps away from the ground) or by crossing the street to the center. The Hilton Orlando offers 175,000 sf for meetings and Center and Nationwide Arena via glass walkway. new Country Music Hall of Fame, to fully embrace hotel will boast 1,175 guest rooms and 100,000 sf is connected via open-air walkway to the Orange The Hilton Omaha, the only hotel attached the “Music City” music culture. of meeting space. County Convention Center, the second-largest via skybridge to the Qwest Center Omaha, is “Our intent,” says Tom Faust, “is to avoid cook- There are other changes afoot, as well. The convention center in the U.S at 2.1 million sf. currently undergoing a $37 million makeover, ie-cutter layouts. We want our new convention company recently rebranded the former San Hilton’s now building a new convention ho- including a new junior ballroom scheduled for center hotels to reflect the spirit and the culture Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina as the San Diego tel in Columbus, OH. The Hilton Columbus completion in late 2011. of their cities, so that attendees can have a truly Marriott Marquis & Marina. A bayfront facil- Downtown, due to open in the fall of 2012, will be Both Hilton and Marriott have been in talks ‘local’ experience.” ity featuring 1,362 guest rooms and 160,000 sf a $140 million showpiece with 532 guest rooms with Miami Beach officials on the city’s plans to In addition to Omni Fort Worth, there is an ex- of meeting space, it’s adjacent to the San Diego and 22,800 sf for meetings. It will connect to the build a 1,000-room convention center hotel and isting Omni convention center hotel in Atlanta, ad- Convention Center and within easy walking 1.7-million-sf Greater Columbus Convention expand the Miami Beach Convention Center. jacent to The Georgia World Congress; and in San distance of Petco Park (home of the San Diego Diego, across the street from the convention center. Padres) and the historic Gaslamp Quarter. NOTABLE INDEPENDENTS In addition, the Philadelphia Marriott Down­ The Peabody Orlando recently completed Starwood News town, next to the newly expanded Philadelphia a $450 million renovation last September that Bobby Bowers The Greater Baltimore Committee recently an- Convention Center, is undergoing a $32 million added a second tower with 800 guest rooms. The Senior Vice President nounced plans for a $900 million Inner Harbor renovation of all 1,408 guest rooms and 95,000 sf Peabody now offers a total of 1,641 guest rooms, Smith Travel Research project that will more than double the size of the of meeting space. 300,000 sf of meeting space, and a new open- Hendersonville, TN Baltimore Convention Center, and add an 18,500- air walkway connection to the Orange County seat arena as well as a new 500- HYATT HOTELS Convention Center (OCCC). “There are a number of room Sheraton attached to the Hyatt has 17 convention center hotels through- Orlando’s Rosen Hotels & Resorts owns four built-in savings when convention center. out the country, including a couple of recent addi- convention properties offering a total of 4,500 tions and newly renovated properties. guest rooms and 605,000 sf of meeting space. The you use convention MARRIOTT MOVES The Grand Hyatt San Antonio (1,003 guest 1,334-room Rosen Centre Hotel recently complet- center hotels. ...We’re WITH THE TIMES rooms; 115,000 sf of meeting space) opened ed work on a new pedestrian skyway linking the all looking for quick Marriott has been a major in 2008, adjacent to the Henry B. Gonzalez hotel to the OCCC. player in the convention center Convention Center and the beautiful Riverwalk. savings these days and hotel scene for some time now. And the Hyatt Regency Denver at the Colorado The Upside and the Challenges convenience. And these And the company’s not sitting Convention Center opened in 2005 (1,100 rooms; “We all know about the meetings that were hotels can offer both.” on its laurels. 61,000 sf of meeting space). canceled over the past few years,” says Omni’s In February, Marriott un- Renovations are complete at the Hyatt Tom Faust. “But now, we seem to be heading back veiled the world’s largest JW Marriott, the 1,005- Regency Columbus in Ohio, adjacent to the to 2008 levels. People have realized that you can’t room JW Marriott Indianapolis, a 34-story show- Greater Columbus Convention Center, as well put off meetings forever; you need the face-to-face Photo courtesy of The Peabody Orlando Peabody The courtesyPhoto of piece with 104,000 sf for meetings. The new hotel as the Hyatt Regency Baltimore, a four-diamond The Peabody Orlando completed a major expansion contact. And convention center hotels offer ideal is the centerpiece of the $450 million Marriott Inner Harbor hotel connected by skywalk to the last fall and now is one of three hotels connected environments in which to have it.” Place project occupying seven acres downtown Baltimore Convention Center. Also recently reno- to the Orange County Convention Center. If there’s been an upside at all to the events

24 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 25 meetings at convention center hotels. As director of programs and meeting services at the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA), she holds meetings with up to 4,000 attendees. Last year’s annual meeting was held at the Washington It’s not often you find everything a meeting planner would want State Convention & Trade Center in Seattle, us- in one location. There’s ample space for meetings and events ing the Sheraton Seattle (across the street) as the of any size between two amazing theme parks, an entire headquarters hotel. This year’s annual meeting entertainment complex and three world-class on-site hotels. will be at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston Wantd to ocreaten’t an event yourse attendeesttle will never for forget? Well, in August, and the headquarters hotel will be the Photo courtesyPhoto & Resorts of Rosen Hotels give yourself the opportunity and choose from over 250,000 neighboring Sheraton Boston. Next year, she’s tak- BsquareUs feetiness of customizable asevent space. Us So, Uwhethera youl The Rosen Centre Hotel of the past few years, it’s that some in the hotel ing her group to the Moscone Convention Center unveiled a new pedestrian industry now seek input from the end-users of in San Francisco, with headquarters at the adja- need a place to get work done or a place to celebrate when bridge in March that links the hotel to the Orange their products. cent Marriott Marquis. the work is over - And really, why not do both? - You won’t County Convention Center. “At Omni, we have a Customer Advisory Board “Location is big,” Wood says. “People like to be find a better partner than Universal Orlando® Resort! consisting of meeting planners,” Faust says, “and able to run back to their rooms in between meet- we meet with them twice a year. We rely on their ings. In addition, we’ve found that if our attendees feedback, particularly in our focus of creating ‘lo- are placed too far apart, there’s a disconnect; you cal’ experiences that reflect the culture of the cities can’t network as well, and you can’t exchange ideas Exciting Restaurants, Nightlife in which we’re located.” — or even pleasantries — as well.” & Entertainment Joe McInerney, who is president and CEO of Wood notes that even dining is a part of net- the Washington, DC-based American Hotel & working, and that, for many attendees, this type Lodging Association (AHLA), is not necessarily bullish on the short-term prospects for construc- tion of convention center hotels, because of the lingering credit crunch. But he does see more of them being constructed in the future. Universal Music Plaza “Convention center hotels give planners addi- tional flexibility,” McInerney says. “You can walk

to the convention center. And you can use the ho- PHOTO BY JAMES PORTO Deborah Sexton tel’s own meeting rooms to supplement the con- President and CEO vention center, perhaps getting some free meeting

Professional Convention space for your smaller breakout sessions. These courtesyPhoto of Marriott International Management Association The Washington Marriott Marquis will be connected hotels can provide you with more alternatives.” to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center via Chicago, IL Bowers also notes budgetary benefits. “There an underground walkway when it opens in 2014. are a number of built-in savings Attendees “may not when you use convention center of networking can provide as much learning as want to leave home hotels,” he says. “For one thing, the sessions do. for the better part of a you don’t have to transport peo- “For our people,” says Wood, “using these hotels ple downtown; you’re already is like ‘going home’ to reconnect with old friends, week if they don’t think there. And for another, even if to compare notes, and to problem-solve.” Three Award-Winning Hotels the networking, idea- you do have to transport peo- Omni’s Tom Faust says it’s all about location, generation and training ple to attractions, restaurants, convenience and time-savings, all of which add sports events, cultural facilities, up to cost savings, as well. opportunities are for the most part, you’re already “We’re convinced there’s a growing market for sufficient. Keeping your there, or very close. We’re all the convention center hotel,” he says. “Planners HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment looking for quick savings these and attendees today want memorable meetings Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR. people together for a (s11) days and convenience. And in interesting locations, without a lot of time or Visit©2011 BMP. uomeetingsandevents.com/cit Pat O’Brien’s, Hurricane Glass logo, Have Fun! and Iron Grill Design ® Pat O’Brien’s or call Bar, Inc. 888-322-5531.© longer time can enhance 2011 Pat O’Brien’s Bar, Inc. All rights reserved. Latin Quarter TM Latin Quarter Entertainment, Inc. Hard Rock these hotels can offer both.” money wasted on transportation. And we’re doing StartHotel ® Hard Rock Cafe Internationalplanning (USA), Inc. Universal elements and today!all related indicia TM & © 2011 all of these opportunities.” Cindy Wood plans large our best to provide them.” AC&F Universal Studios. © 2011 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved. 248088/0211/RA

® | ® | ® | ® | 26 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com U n i V e r s a l’ s i s l a n d s o f a d V e n t U r e U n i V e r s a l s t U d i o s f l o r i d a U n i V e rsal CityWalk l o e W s Portofino Bay Hotel H a r d r o C k H o t e l l o e W s r o ya l P a C i f i C r e s o r t Destination Report “The (Medical City) campus on its Lake Nona site, Orlando was already a major two main floors, it will be a huge draw for health care conferences. According to the is easy to navigate Healthcare Convention and Exhibitors Association, around the con- complement it was the No. 1 destination, averaged over the past vention center. to Orlando, 13 years. Medical City is just a five-minute drive east The staff is very not just as a from Orlando International Airport, which is also knowledgeable destination, but in the midst of developments. Beginning this year about their build- Orlando through 2013, nearly $40 million will be invested in ing, and the ser- a huge business Karen Malone Attendance and Infrastructure Are Booming improving runways, security, signage and emergency vices department component Vice President, Meetings electrical systems. works well with to the health Healthcare Information and By George Seli Orlando’s future visitation. Their number is fore- Also augmenting Orlando’s infrastructure is the our designated Management Systems Society casted to increase 2.3 percent in 2011 to 3.34 million multimillion-dollar Amway Center, a major sports vendor partners.” care industry.” Chicago, IL ne of the Sunshine State’s most viable cit- and 4.8 percent in 2012 to 3.62 million. Part of the and entertainment venue that opened last fall. Its From a tech- ies for association meetings is in full swing city’s recent surge in convention attendance were variety of suites and hospitality rooms offers ex- nological stand- this year, with combined attendance at the 31,200 registrants of Chicago-based Healthcare hibitors energetic ambiences to host clients, which point, Malone adds, “Telecom­munications is very Oconventions and trade shows in the Orange County Information and Management Systems Society’s an- some HIMSS exhibitors may well take advantage important to us, and it’s a very strong component of Convention Center (OCCC) up 23.5 percent in April nual conference in February. “We had a 13 percent in- of in 2014, Malone remarks. On the site of the the convention center with Smart City (a telecom year-to-date, and hotel occupancy at a three-year crease in attendance between 2010 and 2011,” notes old Amway Arena, adjacent to the University of company focused on the events industry) as a part- high with 80.6 percent of rooms filled in March, ac- Karen Malone, vice president, meetings with HIMSS. Central Florida’s Florida Interactive Entertainment ner there. Being a health care technology show, we cording to Smith Travel Research. Orlando’s 115,000 “I would attribute it to two things mostly, the first be- Academy, the Orlando City Commission plans to have a huge consumption of telecom services (with hotel rooms are part of the largest meetings infra- ing our industry, health care technology. There’s a lot build a Creative Village — a 68-acre neighborhood a high) bandwidth, and they did a great job for us.” structure in the U.S. behind Las Vegas, and “it’s a big going on with legislation and health care reform,” so with digital media companies, residences, office engine to fill everyday. But it’s improving and that’s members are especially in need of education at this space and possibly a hotel. New Focus on Planners’ Needs great news,” says Gary Sain, president and CEO time. “And second, it would be Orlando.” Medical City and the Amway Center are among The OCCC is also ensuring that planners stay of Visit Orlando. In fact, Visit Orlando recently an- The city’s combination of accessibility, afford- the fruits of Orlando’s continued infrastructural in- abreast of its latest features. According to Buffy Levy, nounced that the city is the first in the U.S. to break ability and attractions is one that few metropolises vestments throughout the recession, along with new director, event services with SmithBucklin the 50 million visitor mark, with 51.445 can match, and HIMSS chose to showcase one of upscale hotel developments such as the Peabody Corporation and show director for the North million visitors in 2010, the most visita- Orlando’s newer attractions, The Wizarding World of Orlando’s $450 million expansion, completed in American Association of Food Equipment tion in its history. Understandably, “I feel Harry Potter at Universal Studios’ Island of Adventure, September; the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek and Manufacturers (NAFEM), “Visit Orlando and the very confident we’re going to hit 50 mil- for an offsite special event. Transportation to the the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, which opened in 2009; OCCC have just started producing a Convention lion total visitors in 2011,” Sain adds. theme park was provided from all of the meeting’s and the Hilton Orlando, which debuted in 2009 ad- District News video. The first one they did was all Meeting and convention travel- 64 designated hotels, including Rosen Shingle Creek, jacent to the OCCC. Orlando’s convention center of- about what they’re doing to ensure the technology ers will make healthy contributions to where the society held its Awards and Recognition fers 2.1 million sf of exhibition space, two 92,000-sf in the building is as upgraded as we need it to be, Banquet. Groups of about 200 attendees also dined at general assembly areas, 74 meeting rooms, the 2,643- and why cell phone service is not an issue in that Cuba Libre and B.B. Kings Restaurant & Blues Club, seat Chapin Theater, a 200-seat Lecture Hall and the building. That’s a really good thing that they’re do- two among a slew of Orlando venues that cater well 62,000-sf multipurpose Valencia Room. “The layout ing that’s helping meeting planners understand to the meetings industry. of the building worked very well for us,” says Malone. what’s available.” “From an attendee’s perspective it’s fairly easy to navi- Levy is a member of Visit Orlando’s customer ad- The New Medical City and More gate. It has a lot of contiguous exhibit space, which visory board, and the news video was one of the sug- HIMSS will be returning to Orlando in 2014, is great, and then it has meeting rooms very close to gested ideas at a recent annual meeting. It’s just one and by that time, Medical City should be a boon the exhibit space, as well as many food outlets (three way the city’s marketing organization is increasing its to the health care conference. The 650-acre parcel restaurants and eight food courts).” services to planners. A full-time destination market- of land is growing into a $2 billion medical campus Linda M. Still, CMP, director, meetings and ex- ing professional focused on attendance-building ini- that includes a medical school, research laborato- hibits for the American Association for Cancer tiatives was recently brought on staff, as well as two ries and hospitals. “We’ll work with the folks from Research (AACR), has also found the OCCC logisti- additional site inspection professionals. Medical City to get them really involved with our cally advantageous for the AACR’s annual meetings “We’ve added a creative services department for program,” says Malone. “The campus will be a huge in the city, the last two in 2011 and 2004. “Its indi- meetings and conventions,” Sain says. “We now have complement to Orlando, not just as a destination, vidual meeting rooms are larger than some other people that are dedicated to helping customers of Photos courtesy of Oscar Einzig Photography for HIMSS for courtesyPhotos of Oscar Einzig Photography The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society’s 2011 annual conference in but a huge business component to the health care centers, so we can accommodate more people in ours who want to grow their brand or their show’s Orlando included a visit to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando (inset). industry.” Well before Medical City was developed the rooms,” she comments. “With meeting space on attendance. And that’s somewhat unique to CVBs.

28 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 29 “Our partnership with Grande Lakes provided us with a seamless transition. — International Drive, has recently completed a $35 liked the ambience of a reception without any add- we’re a very different type of meeting, Bock says. million renovation. It offers 60,000 sf of meeting ed special entertainment.” “Unique to us is the amount of small meeting space Their service level is I think space and an ideal vantage point for both Universal NAFEM contracted with 21 hotels for its citywide we need. We don’t require lots of large general ses- beyond the commitment and Disney theme parks. convention, which brought in about 20,000 partici- sions; it’s all about B-to-B meetings and B-to-B net- that many properties make. Featuring outstanding golf is the 720-room pants. The largest room blocks were at The Peabody working. These business leaders are setting up meet- And we really gave due Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, hous- and the Hilton, as well as the Rosen Centre, whose ings from very early in the morning to very late at ing 70,000 sf of function space. The Omni is the 316-foot covered skywalk to the OCCC’s West night, so it is a constant revolving door of meetings. diligence to being certain Nancy Bock world headquarters for the David Leadbetter Golf Building is now open. The 1,334-room hotel offers And if we don’t have that down from an efficiency V.P., Consumer Education and Meetings that when we left a property Academy. Another fine golf property is the 540- 106,000 sf of meeting and event space and 33 meeting and service standpoint, we’re dead in the water. Our American Cleaning Institute after 37 years, the new room Reunion Resort. With 50,000 sf of function rooms, and has also recently debuted 98Forty Tapas partnership with Grande Lakes provided us with a Washington, DC space, Reunion is home to three championship golf & Tequila Bar in its Grande Lobby. The 150-seat res- seamless transition. Their service level is I think be- property would deliver.” courses and the Annika Academy. taurant is available for private events. Meanwhile, the yond the commitment that many properties make. And new lodging options are regularly avail- 1,500-room Rosen Shingle Creek Resort has opened And we really gave due diligence to being certain able. For example, the 400-room Wyndham Grand Banrai Sushi and Tobias Flats & Watering Hole. The that when we left a property after 37 years, the new CVBs traditionally have been about dates, rates and Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek is scheduled to open hotel features 445,000 sf of meeting space, and is also property would deliver.” The result was increased space. We are a marketing company, but now we’re in October. Offering 20,000 sf of meeting space, the complemented by the 800-room Rosen Plaza Hotel attendance in 2011 over 2010, and in 2010 over the becoming more of a marketing company to our cus- property is located in Wyndham’s Bonnet Creek with 60,000 sf of meeting space. previous meeting in the old location. “With the econ- tomers. These are things the show managers are re- time-share resort, next to Walt Disney World Resort. omy, travel restrictions, oil prices, all the things that ally looking for. They’ll say, ‘We want to grow our in- The Wyndham Grand joins the 1,000-room Hilton An Orlando First-Timer are going on in the world, I’m really proud to be able ternational attendance by 10 percent. How can your Orlando Bonnet Creek (122,000 sf of meeting space) While NAFEM’s first show in Orlando goes back to say that the last two years we’ve seen an increase international offices help us do that?’ ” In the future, and the 497-room Waldorf Astoria Orlando (28,000 to 2001, Washington, DC-based American Cleaning in registration,” Bock notes. Visit Orlando plans to offer international marketing sf of meeting space). Several lower-tier properties Institute (ACI) first held its annual convention in the For many years, she explains, the ACI had per- expertise specific to different countries, Sain notes. are also debuting, including the recently opened 216- city last year — after a remarkable 37 years of meet- ceived Orlando as more about recreation than busi- room Holiday Inn Resort — The Castle, a 236-room ing in Boca Raton, FL. “Which I think demonstrates ness meetings. “And that is nothing against amuse- Top Hotels and Testimonials Drury Inn & Suites scheduled for spring 2012, and that in the world of meetings, change is definitely not ment parks, but we all have brands, and the brand Visit Orlando’s site inspection experts are an a redeveloped 489-room Sheraton Safari Hotel and easy,” says Nancy Bock, ACI’s vice president, meet- of Orlando years ago was amusement parks, bring excellent resource for navigating Orlando’s great Suites, with completion anticipated by spring 2012. ings. The circumstance around the move “was like a your kids. That shaded us a bit from the treasure that range of hotels. Whether a delegate wants to pay After its expansion, The Peabody Orlando offers perfect storm. Our industry’s undergone a significant Orlando has today” for conventions like ACI’s. $80 a room or $300 a room, whether she wants 1,641 guest rooms and more than 300,000 sf of meet- amount of change over the years. We also changed The American Cleaning a property accessible to theme parks or more se- ing space. Last fall it opened the 6,000-sf Rocks, an our name (from the Soap and Detergent Association), Family-Friendly appeal Institute’s 2011 Annual cluded, and so on, Orlando can offer an associa- upscale lounge overlooking International Drive. Just so the move to a new location was just in synergy Part of that treasure is resorts that capably host Meeting & Industry tion the right hotel to contract with. For example, with a new name for our organization, a new brand, business meetings while being in the midst of rec- Convention included a off International Drive on Destination Parkway is the charity golf tournament at the 1,094-room Doubletree by Hilton Orlando at 1,400-room Hilton Orlando, with more than 175,000 a new tagline (For Better Living),” she explains. reational offerings, such as Disney’s convention re- the Grande Lakes Orlando. SeaWorld, formerly the Doubletree Resort Orlando sf of function space. The success of ACI’s 2010 meeting, held at Grande sorts. Washington, DC-based American Financial NAFEM, which held its trade show in the city Lakes Orlando, prompted a return to the site for this Services Association (AFSA) has been meeting at this year, found the hotels ideal for its two ancil- year’s convention. Grande Lakes comprises the 582- the 1,217-room Disney Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, lary events: a kickoff reception the night before the room Ritz-Carlton Orlando, with more than 47,000 show opened at the Hilton and then a black-tie gala sf of meeting space, and the 1,000-room JW Marriott event on one of the nights at The Peabody. “We al- Orlando, featuring more than 100,000 sf of meeting ways were impressed with The Peabody but now space. On hand is The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, with The convention center’s it’s at a new level. The gala was executed brilliantly,” an 18-hole par-72 Greg Norman Signature Golf “individual meeting rooms says Levy. “Huey Lewis & the News performed and Course, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, featuring 40 treat- are larger than some we had a surf-and-turf meal. Our kickoff event in ment rooms, a lap pool and fitness center. The ACI other centers, so we can 2009 we held at Epcot World Showplace, which is hosted a charity event on the golf course “and the fit- a wonderful space that you can transform however ness center and tennis courts were very much used accommodate more you want. But we received feedback that although by our members,” Bock notes. “We’re all trying to be people. ...The staff is very the reception was well done, our attendees prefer a little more health conscious.” knowledgeable...and the not to take a 20-minute bus ride to the event. The The event brought in about 800 attendees and Linda M. Still, CMP networking is what’s most important, and getting used much of the Grande Lakes’ meeting space and services department works Director, Meetings and Exhibits Photo by Amber LaValle for Convention-Photography.com for Amber LaValle by Photo there quickly. So we did it at the Hilton, and they suites for breakouts. “We’re not a huge meeting, but well with our designated American Association for Cancer vendor partners.” Research Philadelphia, PA

30 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 31 Orlando is “definitely one of the easier places 864 traditional rooms designed around four themes: to negotiate. And we’re The Lion King, Cars, Finding Nemo and The Little usually there during high Mermaid. Through 2013 Disney will be introduc- season. We’ve done some ing its new waterfront district, Hyperion Wharf, to great contracts, and then its Downtown Disney dining and entertainment area. Billed as “a nostalgic yet modern take on an by the time we’re there I’m early 20th century port city and amusement pier,” Tom Morano amazed at how good our Hyperion Wharf offers delegates diverse eateries V.P. Meetings and Conferences rate was given the number that will expand dining availability at Downtown American Financial Services Association Disney by more than 25 percent. Washington, DC of transients that come in.” Unique Venues Of course, Orlando is already well stocked in din- which share 73,000 sf of meeting space. “We do two ing and nightlife venues catering to every taste, and programs that regularly rotate to Orlando,” says Tom new establishments are always coming online. For Morano, vice president, meetings and conferences example, the new Mojo Cajun Bar & Grill on Church with the AFSA. “One is in conjunction with the Street in downtown Orlando, a New Orleans- NADA (National Automobile Dealers Association) themed restaurant and bar, offers an 8,000-sf space ® annual meeting, and the other is our independent for up to 414 delegates, and a private room can be section of finance companies. They’re owner/op- rented for up to 100. In February, One80 Grey Goose Meet at Reunion, Get Rewarded! erators, and they go to a resort every year. Since Lounge opened on the sixth floor of the Amway they’re family-run businesses, they often bring their Center. The space can be reserved for special events children.” The Disney location, then, is a plus for the with up to 360 attendees. In March, Touch Orlando, group. The closing banquet features entertainment, a 3,700-sf nightclub, opened on Church Street. For the last one graced by Mickey and Minnie dressed private events, up to 375 delegates can be accommo- to match a pirates theme. dated, and special lighting, audio and sound equip- The AFSA has also staged a board meeting for 60 ment is available. A combination art gallery/lounge attendees at Epcot’s Seas pavilion, as well as a dessert in Orlando’s up-and-coming Milk District, Blank party on the French Islands to witness the fireworks. Space Gallery & Lounge is now available to rent for Overall, Morano finds Orlando “definitely one of the events with up to 100 attendees and offers Wi-Fi and Book by May 31, 2011 for meetings arriving April 15 – December 31, 2011 and earn easier places to negotiate. And we’re usually there projector capabilities. up to seven different Reunion Meeting Rewards based on the size of your meeting: during high season. We’ve done some great con- Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre restaurant, shop- tracts, and then by the time we’re there I’m amazed ping and nighttime entertainment complex, is also at how good our rate was given the number of tran- teeming with venues that planners can reserve sients that come in.” for their attendees. In fact, Meeting Professionals Minimum Total Room • Morning or Afternoon Group Refreshment Break with two food items Your Choice Of Like the AFSA, the AACR also held a board of International (MPI) is scheduled to conclude its Nights Booked directors dinner at Epcot, and found the city’s fam- five-day World Education Congress in Orlando • One afternoon golf foursome on one of Reunion’s three signature courses 60-89 Two Reunion Rewards ily entertainment offerings of interest to members at CityWalk on July 26. Planners will enjoy Bob at the convention. “Orlando is a great destination Marley—A Tribute To Freedom, Pat O’Brien’s, Latin • One-hour Wine & Cheese Welcome Reception for Group 90-149 Four Reunion Rewards to combine education and family fun,” says Still. Quarter, CityWalk’s Rising Star karaoke club and fin- “This feature aids in the increased attendance for ish off with a dessert reception at Hard Rock Live, a • 50 minute Aromatherapy Massage with spa amenity at The SpaSM 150-209 Seven Reunion Rewards those trying to mix a little pleasure with business. 3,000-capacity concert venue. SM Orlando has grown over the years and added ad- The 2,700 or so delegates that MPI will bring to • One (1) 50 Minute European Facial with spa amenity at The Spa ditional large hotels, restaurants and non-Disney Orlando comprise a relatively small portion of the LINDA SCOTT, SM SM activities and venues, which adds to the attraction total number of conventioneers expected this year. • Dinner for four at one of Reunion’s signature restaurants, Eleven or Forté DIRECTOR OF RESORT SALES with two bottles of house selected wine of coming to Orlando.” But once these decision-makers re-familiarize them- 407-662-1021 Two new Disney hotel projects are set to be selves with the city’s meetings infrastructure — in- • 90 minute golf clinic for eight people with a PGA Golf Professional or [email protected] completed next year: the Port Orleans Resort is cluding the dynamic venues of CityWalk — they will refurbishing its 3,056 guest rooms, and the Art of surely be motivated to bring even more events to • $100 Gift Certificate to Reunion Golf & Tennis Pro shops 7593 Gathering Dr. l Reunion, FL 34747 Find yourself together. Animation Resort is debuting with 1,120 suites and Orlando in the future. AC&F ReunionResort.com

*Terms and Conditions: Number of persons for refreshment breaks or reception may not exceed number of total room nights, dinner for four includes two appetizers, entrées, desserts & two (2) bottles of house selected wine. Meeting must be booked by May 31, 2011 with meeting arrival by December 31, 2011. 32 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com REU777

REU-777-CorpIncentTravelAd.indd 1 2/25/11 8:58 AM Career Track Free Information Direct Connect An up-to-date listing of important contact information for leading hotels, resorts, conference centers and CVBs. ADVERTISER PH # WEB ADDRESS CONTACT E-MAIL ADDRESS ARIA Resort & Casino 866-718-2489 www.arialasvegas.com Stephanie Windham [email protected] Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa 609-317-7729 www.theborgata.com Group Sales [email protected] The Broadmoor 719-577-5777 www.broadmoor.com John Rovie [email protected] Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau 800-933-8448 www.miamimeetings.com Ita Moriarity [email protected] Inn of the Mountain Gods Resort & Casino 800-545-6040 www.innofthemountaingods.com Jo Kazhe [email protected] Loews Hotels at Universal Orlando 888-322-5531 www.uomeetingsandevents.com Group Sales [email protected] Long Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau 800-452-7829 www.visitlongbeach.com Iris Himert [email protected] MGM Grand Las Vegas 800-929-1112 www.mgmgrand.com Ruth Leis [email protected] Mohegan Sun 877-204-7100 www.mohegansun.com/meetings Group Sales [email protected] WINDHAM TORRENCE PEREZ MCPHERRIN ROADARMEL The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club 800-866-1946 www.naplesbeachhotel.com Group Sales [email protected] Ocean Center 386-254-4500 www.oceancenter.com Lori Hunter [email protected] Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau 405-297-8912 www.visitokc.com Elizabeth Richardson [email protected] Christine Madden has returned to the group sales for The Westin City Center Mark Theis was named director of group www.omnihotels.com/findahotel/orlan- Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate 407-238-6526 Group Sales [email protected] Santa Fe Convention & Visitors Bureau Dallas and The Westin Park Central Dallas. sales - North America, for Starwood dochampionsgate/meetingfacilities.aspx in her former position as director of Hotels & Resorts. Theis, who has more Palm Beach County Convention & Visitors Bureau 561-329-3753 www.palmbeachfl.com Donna Del Gallo [email protected] sales. She was the bureau’s East Coast Robert McPherrin was named director of than 20 years of sales experience, Pointe Hilton Resorts 602-870-8188 www.pointehilton.com Staci Valentino [email protected] sales representative. sales and marketing for the Hilton Anatole, most recently served as executive vice Ponte Vedra Inn & Club 800-234-7842 www.pontevedra.com Tony Fitzjohn [email protected] Dallas, TX. He was previously assistant president of the Chicago Convention & Stephanie Windham, CMP, was promoted executive director at the Grapevine (TX) Tourism Bureau. Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel 770-953-4500 www.renaissancewaverly.com Group Sales [email protected] to vice president of sales and market- Convention & Visitors Bureau. Reunion Resort 888-418-9614 www.reunionresort.com Mary Hutchcraft [email protected] ing for Aria Resort & Casino and Vdara The Orange County Convention Rosen Centre Hotel 407-996-9939 www.rosencentre.com Todd Frappier [email protected] Hotel & Spa at CityCenter, Las Vegas, Meet Minneapolis has named Center, Orlando, FL, has named Rosen Plaza Hotel 407-996-9939 www.rosenplaza.com Victoria Hall [email protected] NV. She most recently served as direc- Matt Meunier as national account execu- Rodney Gutierrez, CMP, and Kathleen Cotter Rosen Shingle Creek 407-996-9939 www.rosenshinglecreek.com Leslie Menichini [email protected] tor of sales at Aria. tive for conventions and meetings. He as senior sales managers. Gutierrez was Royal Caribbean International 800 762-0458 www.royalcaribbeanincentives.com Lori Cassidy [email protected] was associate director of sports de- meetings and events manager for BCD The New Orleans Convention & Visitors velopment for the Bloomington (IN) Travel, Orlando, FL. Cotter was senior Santa Fe Convention & Visitors Bureau 505-955-6210 www.santafe.org Mary Pat Kloenne [email protected] Bureau has named Ted Pennison as senior Convention and Visitors Bureau. sales manager for Walt Disney World The Scottsdale Plaza Resort 480-922-3300 www.meetatplaza.com Kelly Moenter-Nofal [email protected] sales manager and Sharon Sibley as con- Resort’s park and event sales. AC&F Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino 954-797-5502 www.seminolehardrock.com Mark P. Tascione [email protected] vention sales manager. Pennison was di- Visit Winston-Salem (NC) has named Sheraton Boston Hotel 617-236-6033 www.sheratonbostonhotel.com Frank Guzzi [email protected] rector of convention sales for the Greater Timothy Simmons as national sales man- The Shores Resort & Spa 386-322-7262 www.shoresresort.com Group Sales [email protected] Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau. ager responsible for the national and SSOCIATION Sibley was contract management co- regional convention market. With more A CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa 702-797-8050 www.southpointmeetings.com Maureen Robinson [email protected] ordinator for Vinson & Elkins LLP. Both than 17 years of hospitality and tourism ADVERTISER Page Station Casinos 702-495-4247 www.stationcasinos.com Michael Toney [email protected] previously had worked for NOCVB. industry experience, he formerly served Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa 17 Talking Stick Resort 480-850-7777 www.talkingstickresort.com Group Sales [email protected] as southeast regional sales and market- The Broadmoor 8–9 Universal Orlando Resort 888-322-5531 www.uomeetingsandevents.com Group Sales [email protected] The St. Louis Convention & Visitors ing manager for Grandover Resort in Pointe Hilton Resorts COV II The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino 702-414-4202 www.venetianpalazzomeetings.com Chandra Allison [email protected] Commission has named Jani Torrence Greensboro, NC. Reunion Resort 33 Virginia Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau 800-700-7702 www.vbmeetings.com Al Hutchinson [email protected] as national convention sales manager. She was corporate sales manager for Tod Roadarmel was named director of Universal Orlando Resort 27 Walt Disney World Resort 321-939-7112 www.disneymeetings.com Anne Hamilton [email protected] the Greater St. Charles Convention & sales and marketing for the Omni The Westin La Cantera Resort 5 Washington Hilton 202-328-2080 www.hiltonsofdc.com Group Sales [email protected] Visitors Bureau, St. Charles, MO. Nashville Hotel, which is scheduled Wynn/Encore COV IV The Westin Casuarina Las Vegas Hotel, Casino & Spa 702-836-5934 www.westin.com/lasvegas Sandra Horvath [email protected] to open late 2013. He joins the Omni The Westin La Cantera Resort 210-558-2229 www.westinlacantera.com Group Sales [email protected] The Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau Nashville Hotel from RevSource, a Visit www.themeetingmagazines.com Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino 520-796-4923 www.wingilariver.com Denise Heintz [email protected] has named Ruben Perez as director of sales. Nashville-based hospitality sales and for more information on our advertisers. Wynn/Encore 888-320-7117 www.wynnmeetings.com Steve Blanner [email protected] He most recently served as director of marketing firm he founded in 2002.

34 JUNE / JULY 2011 Association Conventions & Facilities TheMeetingMagazines.com TheMeetingMagazines.com Association Conventions & Facilities JUNE / JULY 2011 35 WYNN LAS VEGAS AD – ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE Trim: 8.125” W x 10.875” H • Bleed: 8.375” W x 11.125” H • Live: none given

YOUR EXPECTATIONS ARE HIGH. OUR STANDARDS ARE HIGHER. Discover a resort experience that is uniquely Wynn and distinctly Encore.

For more information visit us at wynnmeetings.com or call 866.770.7201.