THIS ISSUE: CYBER SECURITY TAILORING EDUCATION SMERF MEETINGS Convention DESTINATION: Centers Dig CANADA DISTINCTIVE in to Healthy ACHIEVEMENT Catering AWARDS Trends

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4 Publisher’s Message 14 Fresh Choices 20 Safe & Secure Convention Centers How to Ensure Your 6 News & Notes Dig in to Healthy Conventions Are Snapshots Catering Trends Cyber Secure 8 BY CHRISTINE LOOMIS BY KEITH LORIA Destinations International 2019 Annual Convention Snapshots 26 Customize 32 Smart SMERFs 12 Your Content SMERF Numbers Add ASAE Annual Meeting Up To Big Business & Exposition Planners Must Increasingly Tailor for Destinations, Career Track Educational Information Hotels and Venues 50 to a Global Audience BY DEREK REVERON BY PATRICK SIMMS SPECIAL SECTION 44 2019 Distinctive Achievement Awards DESTINATIONS 36 Canadian Charm Attractive Venues and Beautiful Monuments Make Our Neighbor a Five-Star Destination BY RON BERNTHAL 46

Steve O’Malley, Michael Guerriero, and David Peckinpaugh (pictured left to right) Maritz Global Events themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 3 PUBLISHER’SMESSAGE

Convention Centers Focus on Healthy Catering Trends A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Harvey Grotsky ur cover story, “Fresh Choices” reviews the ever-popular food and [email protected]

beverage topic. Health and wellness have become an important con- CREATIVE DIRECTOR sideration among association planners and as a result, today’s food Kristin Bjornsen [email protected] and beverage trends are a reflection of that. These trends seem to be O MANAGING EDITOR playing out across all demographics and global destinations. There’s long been a Henry Fitzgerald perception that healthful menus are too costly, but this seems to be changing as [email protected] demand from planners increases. Some planners may have the budget and are EDITORIAL COORDINATOR willing to pay more in favor of health and wellness, while oth- Heather Ballis [email protected] ers find ways to mitigate costs by offering smaller portions. DIGITAL CONTENT COORDINATOR Healthy menus should begin with considering portion size Christine Smith and what is being planned to serve. In many cases, vegan and [email protected] vegetarian options are no longer an occasional request, they’re CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Sophia Bennett now an expectation. Planners should not work off the same Sara Churchville menu at every venue. Farm-to-table and fresh local ingredients Cynthia Dial Maura Keller are today’s best bet to satisfy attendee appetites. Food and bev- Christine Loomis Derek Reveron erage trends come and go, so what’s next? Mark Rowh Are your meetings and conventions safe and secure? Our Patrick Simms David Swanson “Safe & Secure” story in this issue suggests how to ensure your PRESIDENT & CEO events are cybersecure. Keeping your events safe is a major Harvey Grotsky objective for any planner. Having a cyber-incident response plan is a must and VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS should be in place prior to the beginning of any event. Seasoned planners are very David Middlebrook aware that conventions and other events are a perfect setting for hackers and [email protected] cyberthieves to infiltrate your computers and other devices. Cybercriminals find ADVERTISING SALES OFFICES 2700 N. Military Trail, Suite 120 it easy to infiltrate many devices due to lack of security updates and older devices Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 561-989-0600 Fax: 561-989-9509 with outdated cybersecurity capabilities. [email protected] If you haven’t considered having your next convention or meeting in Canada, you should take a look at “Canadian Charm” in this issue. You will find attractive destinations and venues to accommodate groups of all sizes. With the favorable currency exchange rate, Canada is truly an affordable, year-round choice for Association Conventions & Facilities is published bi-monthly by Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 North Military Trail your next event. — Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394; 561-989-0600. Single copies $13.00 U.S.A. only. Yearly subscription price is $65.00 in We would like to connect with you on social media. Follow us on the U.S.A. Canada and foreign is $135.00. Back copies $14.00 plus shipping and handling, U.S.A. only. Distributed without charge to Twitter @assnconvfac. qualified personnel. Periodicals Postage Paid 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 Harvey Grotsky any industry standard, or as a recommendation of any kind to be Publisher 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 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA subscription inquiries and address changes to: Circulation Department, Association Conventions & Facilities, 2700 North 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. © 2019

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4 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com NEWS&NOTES Oklahoma City Convention Center “Topped Out” With Ceremonial Steel Beam

Phoenix Convention Center Offers Canyon OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The MAPS 3 exhibit hall will dominate the ground On Third, An Outdoor Event Experience Convention Center was ceremonially floor, featuring three operable walls “topped out” in August, an important to divide it in up to four flexible PHOENIX, AZ — The Phoenix Conven- outdoor event space, for all conventions, milestone on the way to its scheduled spaces. About 45,000 sf of meeting tion Center is the premier host for major special events and venue activities. The opening in late 2020. “Topping out,” spaces are on all levels of the build- events such as the NFL Experience for 80,000-sf, outdoor event space on Third traditionally traced to Scandinavia, is ing, and many also have operable Super Bowl XLIX, the Playoff Fan Cen- Street, between Washington and Mon- a ceremony in tribute to the natural walls to make the spaces flexible. The tral for College Football Playoffs and the roe streets, is within walking distance of resources used to construct a building. rooms can be configured to provide NCAA Final Four Fan Fest, to name a few downtown Phoenix’s trendy restaurants, A tree or branch is placed on the high- up to 27 individual meeting spaces. A among other numerous conventions, con- shopping and sports facilities. Flanked by est beam in the frame, often with flags 30,000-sf ballroom is the main space certs, trade shows and expos. The Phoe- the Convention Center’s North and West or streamers. For the MAPS 3 Conven- on the fourth level, complemented nix Convention Center is excited to now buildings, Canyon on Third offers unique, tion Center, crews secured a tree with by 10,000 sf of pre-function space offer Canyon on Third Street, a unique one-of-a-kind activities. an American flag. The 200,000-sf and a 4,000-sf balcony.

ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition Invited Attendees To Learn And Play With Purpose Destinations International

WASHINGTON, DC — More than 5,400 new and inventive ways to do business into their passions, find the courage to Releases The 2019 association professionals and industry within their own associations,” says Susan achieve their dreams, value the impor- DestinationNEXT partners gathered in tance of first and last Columbus, OH, August impressions and trust Futures Study 10–13, for the 2019 instincts with forgive- ASAE Annual Meeting & ness and compassion. WASHINGTON, DC — Destinations International Exposition. Participants The ASAE Foundation recently announced the release of the 2019 Des- heard from keynotes Classic was hosted by tinationNEXT Futures Study. The Futures Study Jeremy Heimans and Experience Columbus is a global, in-depth report into the major oppor- Henry Timms and Alton at the Nationwide Arena tunities and trends for destination organization White, and participated and headlined by Ohio leaders. The study is funded by the Destinations Live! by Loews – Arlington, Texas Holds Ribbon in more than 110 educa- native John Legend. International Foundation, a nonprofit organiza- Cutting and Grand Opening Celebration tion sessions, six game The sold-out event had tion dedicated to empowering destinations glob- changers and explored the highest attendance ally by providing education, research, advocacy ARLINGTON, TX — The new luxury hotel and resort offers easy access to 710 booths featuring and revenue in the and leadership development. The study can be Texas Rangers’ Globe Life Park, the Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium and more. 445 companies in the Jeni 13-year history of The used as the cornerstone for the development of Ideal for meetings and conventions, Live! by Loews – Arlington features more expo hall. “The theme Britton Classic. In addition to a destination’s strategy, whether it be in the form than 35,000 sf of meeting and event space, including: a 14,000-sf ballroom, for this year’s event of Bauer attendees volunteering of a strategic plan, board retreat or tourism mas- seven meeting rooms, banquet menus, on-site A/V services, outdoor lounge learn and play with pur- their time at the Reeb ter plan. More than 520 industry and community and private rooftop terrace. Pictured: Ron Price, Arlington CVB president and NICK HAGEN PHOTOGRAPHY pose resonated in every Avenue Center, National leaders in 55 countries participated in the 2019 CEO; City Council members Andrew Peele, Ignacio Nunez, Barbara Odom- aspect of the meeting. From the design Robertson, CAE, interim ASAE president Veterans Memorial and Museum, Netcare DestinationNEXT global survey to help identify Wesley and Helen Moise; Reed Cordish; Texas Rangers owner Neil Liebman; of the main stage and convention center, and CEO. For the closing keynote, White Access, CompDrug and Maryhaven, ASAE the industry’s trends and strategies. The results Alex Tisch; Texas Rangers owner Ray Davis; Jeff Williams, Arlington mayor; to the content covered by our speakers, showcased his skills as a singer and per- raised more than $30,000 for the Colum- show a much greater emphasis today on desti- Jonathan Tisch, Loews CEO (with scissors); Blake Cordish; Andrew Tisch; Scott attendees were compelled to consider former, encouraging attendees to: tap bus Foundation’s Gifts of Kindness Fund. nation management and community advocacy. Nasser, GM of Live! by Loews-Arlington; and Robert Shepherd, mayor pro tem.

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Announces Greater Columbus Convention Center Global DMC Partners Adds Visit Orlando Appoints Mike Waterman Renovation To Conference Center Qualifies As Certified Sensory Inclusive Nashville DMC To Network New Chief Sales Officer SAN ANTONIO, TX — Hyatt Regency San Antonio, on the COLUMBUS, OH — The SMG-managed Greater Columbus WASHINGTON, DC — Global DMC Partners, the largest global ORLANDO, FL — George Aguel, Visit famous River Walk and directly connected to Alamo Plaza, has Convention Center (GCCC) has become the first convention network of destination management companies (DMCs), wel- Orlando president and CEO, announced completed a renovation to its Hyatt Regency Conference Center, center in the world to become Certified Sensory Inclusive comed Evolution Event Solutions to its exclusive partnership of that industry veteran Michael D. Waterman including updates to the conference center’s décor and A/V through KultureCity. The GCCC collaborated with KultureCity more than 65 independently owned DMCs. Evolution Event Solu- has been appointed chief sales officer for technology in meeting rooms. Each monitor is controlled by an to improve the capabilities of the facility and staff to accom- tions is a team of creative, hands-on professionals who bring a Visit Orlando. Waterman has assumed the iPad Pro through a wireless connection for a user-friendly expe- modate guests with sensory processing challenges and pro- variety of perspectives to the drawing board. Together the team sales position, reporting directly to Aguel. rience in showcasing presentations and visuals during a meet- vide an inclusive, seamless and enjoyable experience. Sensory welcomes partnerships with companies during the initial steps With almost 30 years of experience in ing. Across the street from the hotel, Hyatt Regency Conference sensitive and sensory regulation challenges are most often of event planning so they can help bring visions into reality. The hospitality sales and marketing, Water- Center provides 8,000 sf of meeting space. Complementing the experienced by those with autism, dementia, Post-Traumatic team has worked to book more than 11,000 room nights, man- man’s background includes, most recently, conference center, Hyatt Regency San Antonio boasts an addi- Stress Disorder (PTSD) and similar health concerns affected by age events hosting more than 289,000 attendees and negotiate the position as president and CEO of tional 32,000 sf of on-site meeting and event space. overstimulation and noise. contracts resulting in more than 77% savings for clients. Visit Houston. Waterman

6 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 7 SNAPSHOTS SNAPSHOTS // Destinations International 2019 Annual Convention St. Louis, MO — More than 1,525 attendees engaged in five keynote sessions, four mega sessions and more than 50 concurrent sessions, all designed around the theme of “Evolve and Elevate” July 23-26, 2019.

8 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 9 EXPANDING IN 2023 ENHANCING AMAZING

Orange County Convention Center

WHEN YOUR CONVENTION CENTER IS ALREADY ONE Learn more at OrlandoMeeting.com OF THE BEST, HOW DO YOU MAKE IT EVEN BETTER? + + + MORE SPACE MORE CONNECTIVITY MORE VERSATILITY 340,000 square feet of A new Grand Concourse 20,000-seat new flexible space with 60,000 square feet multipurpose venue

19OOC059_ASSOCIATIONS_CONVENTIONS_AND_FACILITIES_2-PAGE_SPREAD-R4.indd 1 7/29/19 4:07 PM SNAPSHOTS SNAPSHOTS // ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition More than 5,400 association professionals and industry partners gathered in Columbus, OH, August 10–13.

12 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 13 Attendees have increased Convention their demand for plant-based alternatives and brain-friendly By Christine Loomis Centers Dig foods. As a result, some chefs today are growing their own in to Healthy produce and herbs. Catering Trends

ealthy is in, heavy is out. That’s the overarch- The drive for local also amps up sustainability. ing approach to dining nationwide. But is it “Everyone is trying to be more conscious of what they’re true at convention centers hosting association ingesting and using,” Lohmann says. That means bottled H planners and attendees? Absolutely. beverages are out due to high sugar and plastic. “Fla- While “healthy” takes many forms, our experts — vored water stations should be the norm,” she continues. planners and chefs — point to the same basic trends: “I suggest pulling from the local area to add ingredients Increased demand for plant-based alternatives; infused that make your destination unique. In South Florida that water; local ingredients; a higher percentage of vegan, might be water infused with star fruit and pineapple; in vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free items on group New Mexico it might be jalapeno and lime. And,” she menus; the popularity of poke and acai bowls; smaller adds, “encourage attendees to bring refillable bottles.” portions/fewer courses; teas and fresh-fruit juices; and Hardly new, healthy options are routinely part of fewer high-sugar drinks and snacks. pre-con discussions along with increased requests All also agree that neither meat nor sweets will disap- for special meals. But before making big changes to a pear. However, meats are being cooked and featured in group’s typical F&B offerings and delivery, Lohmann healthier ways, and traditional sweets are offered along- advises being upfront from the start. side healthier nuts, fruits and low- or no-sugar desserts. “During the registration process tell them that the These trends play out across all demographics and entire trip will be free from certain allergens in menus. geographical locations. This helps create a sense of Courtney Lohmann, CMP, director of ease and may even culture with PRA South Florida, says the events industry has seen a huge shift in how dining is handled. “Planners don’t want to serve the same chicken they serve in every city. They want to see authenticity and excitement with their menus.” DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM Health and wellness are part of the national zeitgeist, and F&B trends are a reflection of that. “We’ve moved into a realm of brain-friendly foods such as nuts and trail mix to keep us charged up and moving through the second half of drive attendance. If you’re going to shift in a big way — the day. I also like that we’re moving to smaller portions, have one day of all vegan meals, for example — tell that which keep budgets down and attendees from overeat- story before, during and after the event. Engage your ing. Allergy-friendly menus are also a must. Eight items attendees with your menu; talk about why you’re mak- cause about 90% of food allergies: cow’s milk, eggs, tree ing these changes. You’ll find that engagement with the nuts, peanuts, shellfish, wheat, soy and fish.” change is much higher.” Though most meals are planned indoors, Lohmann There’s long been a perception that healthful menus suggests finding more ways to get attendees outside dur- increase costs, but experts say this is changing as demand ing breaks. “Mother Nature is proven to increase our in the marketplace increases. In addition, they’re finding health, too,” she says. that more groups are willing to pay increases in favor of health. Yet there are ways for planners to mitigate costs; EMPHASIS ON LOCALLY GROWN FOODS smaller portions is one. The emphasis on locally grown foods is one piece “Healthy menus should begin with portion size and in the larger trend of creating a sense of place. “Dishes what you’re serving,” Lohmann says. “At home, do you have a local taste to them and incorporate more of the serve yourself three 6 oz. portions of protein at dinner? story of the destination you’re in,” Lohmann says. “This Probably not, so why do it at events? Most attendees take a is honestly my favorite part of the menu now.” portion of everything on a buffet. So first, reduce how many

14 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 15 Matt Smith, CEC, CCA, executive chef at the greens can provide needed fuel if a client Greater Columbus Convention Center in Ohio, doesn’t want to eliminate meat from the says more attendees want to know where menu, and many planners now add cru- their food is sourced. dités, fresh fruit and nuts to cookie breaks to give attendees healthier choices.” There are multiple factors in the THE CUTTING EDGE popularity of healthful eating, but One question to consider is how Hans Lentz, executive chef at Hawaii planners should intersect with trends. Convention Center, thinks one is our “Meeting professionals are sometimes unprecedented access to cooking not on the cutting edge of trends,” Sor- shows, tutorials and chefs. “Guests are gel says. “While we may see them com- increasingly discerning about what ing, it often takes a while before demand they eat when they travel and how becomes high enough for us to make a their food is prepared and presented,” change. For general group satisfaction he says. “And meals have become more with the menu, I want to rise with the than just meals; they’re an experience. wave, not necessarily be in front of it.” Attendees expect the meal to tell a Chefs today are well aware of the story, authentically connect them with emphasis on healthy and local. Many a sense of place and be presented in a grow their own produce, have beehives way they can share with others at the juice bar and fresh-made acai bowl.” Patrick Kehler, executive chef with Aventura options you provide. Second, reduce desire for more complex plated lun- and harvest fresh herbs on-site. The table and through digital media.” Linda Arcangeli-Story, CMP, also a Catering, says healthy food can actually portion size and serve meals on smaller cheon entrees. “Roast chicken with Javits Center in New York City is proof While Lentz says Hawaii CC has manager, meetings and expositions with decrease F&B costs because “cooking these plates. Doing this, you can serve higher generic veggies and starch gives way that on-site farming can succeed even always offered a variety of tastes and Kellen, agrees that increased demand items requires little to no costly additions.” quality food items and still hit budget.” to poke bowls, which are easily pre- in the densest urban area. Javits is con- nutritional and dietary preferences, for healthy options drives creativity and Deborah Sorgel, M.Ed., CMP, DES, pared for a variety of diets by adding structing a 1-acre rooftop farm, and its there’s now more interest in these dishes. innovation. “Farm-to-table and fresh manager, meetings and expositions chicken, fish or tofu. They’re healthy green roof is already home to birds and He says demand for vegan, vegetarian, local ingredients are center stage and we that when you accommodate people at Kellen, says vegetarian and vegan as well as trendy. And rather than two bats as well as bees from which chefs gluten- and dairy-free options doubled aren’t just working off the same menus you aren’t costing the association dol- options are no longer a discussion but meats and a fish on buffets, I’m see - harvest honey. to nearly 10 percent of event menus. at every venue. Food has become a true lars, as some of these are preferences an expectation. She adds that planners ing vegetarian options replacing one Mariam Karim, vice president, “Our team has done such a good job art and focus of events. You’re seeing rather than allergies.” whose events include many interna- of the meats.” guest experience at Javits, notes the of innovating in this area that attend- chefs’ creations rather than cookie- But increased awareness of allergies tional attendees, especially from Asia, Moreover, she says, attendees don’t center’s catering staff has many ways ees will order non-meat dishes because cutter menus.” has driven another trend: Transparency should plan for a significant number have to be vegetarian 100% of the time to meet planners’ requests for healthful they’re so attractive,” he says. One She says asking chefs to create some- and labeling of ingredients. Arcangeli- of vegetarians. “With one large group, to favor vegetarian options at confer- options in addition to on-site gardens. example: The center’s Paradox Burger. thing off the formal menu is popular, “giv- Story says that impacts a planner’s job I stopped counting vegetarian requests ences. “I offered a poke bowl/plate to She says chefs are using cauliflower for “It’s gluten-free and vegan and incor- ing them the freedom to come up with — but there’s an upside. “Having to have under the ‘special diets’ category a few a group of health-conscious nurses pizza crusts and other typically breaded porates an array of spices, quinoa and something specific to your attendees.” everything labeled and making sure each years ago and started ordering for about and had great feedback. I’ve also used items, and providing such options lentils for a balanced, pro- coffee break includes 20% vegetarian.” this as an action station at a publisher’s as immune-boosting soy wild-berry tein- and fiber-filled burger almond or soy milk, etc., Attendees request many types of reception in Chicago and it was the smoothies, poke bowls, snacks featur- choice — that also happens “Farm-to-table and fresh means you have to pay diets these days. “This year I had my first most popular station at the event.” ing protein vs. sugar, house-made chia to be incredibly tasty.” local ingredients are a lot more attention to request for ‘Halal,’” Sorgel says. “This is Sorgel acknowledges healthy dishes seed “pots” for dessert and hydration Lentz also highlights center stage and we aren’t detail. But that increases the dietary standard as prescribed in the can impact budget. “Many healthy stations featuring herbal, fruit and veg- infused waters, fresh juices just working off the same your creativity when Qur’an. I was pleasantly surprised to find options require additional prepara- etable infusions. and continued focus on menus at every venue.” planning, which makes it that the venue knew of it and was pre- tion to make them desirable. Fresh Perhaps most interestingly, Javits local. “Our first choice is a more exciting process.” pared to accommodate it. I don’t expect fruit is healthy and not too expensive, is combining F&B trends with tech always to look locally for Linda Arcangeli-Story, CMP Creating delicious, it will be the last time I see that request.” but sliced fruit is more attractive and trends. The center launched Sally the everything from fern shoots Manager, Meetings and Expositions healthy dishes often No industry, it seems, is without desirable. Yogurt and fruit are healthy Salad Robot, a robotic vending machine in salads to sea salt and Kellen begins with education. some demand for healthy food. “I’ve in individual plastic containers but available at all hours that creates fresh algae in our poke. Not only Patrick Kehler, execu- been surprised to see how much fresh-fruit parfaits in pretty glassware salads and protein pairings on demand are these options fresh from tive chef with Aventura action oatmeal bars are getting from are more desirable. Some groups are for the center’s staff, based on their the farm, ranch or ocean, they support Among the changes Arcangeli-Story Catering, an Aramark company, the men who might have been ‘meat-and- willing to pay more to have that.” touchpad choices. our local economy and are better for the has made in response to current trends food-service provider for the Phoenix potatoes’ guys all their lives,” Sorgel As for portion size, Sorgel says, “We One byproduct of the increased environment as they don’t require ship- is ordering traditional sweets for only Convention Center, says, “We’re educat- says. “Boomers are watching their cho- need to look at whether we’re over- demand for healthy dishes is that it ping. This reinforces the deeper story about a quarter of her attendees. “If it’s ing our team on healthy eating at home lesterol, fat and sugar, which isn’t new feeding attendees, which isn’t healthy. has stoked creativity among chefs. and experience of each dish.” included in the package that’s fine, but and in the work place. This knowledge among conferences with high female I had instances this year where cook- Karim says chefs at Javits are prepar- For example, he continues, “If we I try to lower the numbers, adding fruit carries over to client conversations and attendance or among health-care pro- ies and ice cream at breaks were barely ing an ever-widening variety of healthy have a luau-style menu reflective of and cheese stations along with standard when preparing food.” fessionals, but it is new to me in the touched because attendees had finished options, “from vegan sushi to dairy-free, a Hawaiian barbecue, we can create sweets. And I’m not getting push back The Phoenix CC has its own urban manufacturing sector. Those mostly lunch just 90 minutes before. People sugar-free desserts.” salads and sides that incorporate local from my organizations,” she adds. tower garden producing various types male groups might still be heavy don’t need to eat every two hours. Next fruits and vegetables like our ‘ulu, Among her groups, increased of greens and herbs, including the cen- on meat but they’re watching their year, I may offer only beverages with THE NEED TO BE CREATIVE breadfruit and taro. We’ve also created dietary requests are significant. “In the ter’s signature “chocolate-mint leaf let- carbs, too. There’s no one-size-fits-all bagged snacks on a consumption basis. They’re also offering meat and tradi- fruit-juice bars for breaks. Attendees past you’d have maybe two people; now tuce.” And though requests for healthy standard anymore.” I hope there will be some interesting tional sweets in creative ways. “Lean red- can still stop by and grab a cookie, but it’s half your attendees. There are so and diet-restricted dishes are not new, Sorgel is also seeing increased options available.” meat salads with whole grains and fresh they have enticing alternatives like a many requests you have to be conscious Kehler says, “The standards for these

16 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 17 The Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, has an aeroponic garden where chefs harvest approximately 850 plants a week.

the food. They’re excited to learn that we work with local growers, artisans and boutique purveyors who prioritize organic ingredients and think deeply about the environmental impact of have been elevated. The quality of food NO ‘STANDARD’ BUFFET their products.” must improve daily.” Like others, he says the stan - The definition of healthy options Kehler thinks healthy food can actu- dard buffet is no longer “standard.” continues to expand. “On average, 5% ally decrease F&B costs because “cook- It includes gluten-free and vegetar- to 7% of our attendees express some ing these items requires little to no ian items routinely. He also points to type of food preference, allergy or costly additions like cream and butter.” the growing need to meet complex intolerance. It’s not just the traditional Like the other chefs, Kehler builds dietary requests. “People are no longer dairy, nuts and seafood,” Smith says. menus “with plenty of healthy meat just vegetarian or gluten-free; they’re “More and more we’re seeing attend- options for clients to choose from. The vegan and gluten free or vegetarian and ees avoiding sulfate/phosphates, car- heavy options are there but fewer peo- kosher. That provides a challenge in bohydrates, MSG and gluten. We’re ple want to leave a convention stuffed finding products and preparing dishes long past the days when we could just and uncomfortable.” for those with several restrictions, but take the protein off a plate and double His menus include cauliflower steak, we’re also seeing the market change.” the vegetables for a guest. We put just lots of vegetables, salads and whole grains. Katurakes says healthy, fresh foods as much creativity and care into the There are sweets for breaks, too, offered have long been available at prices com- preparation and presentation of these alongside nuts, seeds and veggie chips. parable to other foods. “However, when specialty orders as we do every other But for Kehler, customizing is para- we get requests like non-GMO or 100% dish so these attendees can also have a mount. “We meet with clients on a more organic, the price does pick up, and terrific experience.” intimate platform to find Smith’s boxed lunches, out what they really want for example, are a far cry and adjust our menus to “There’s a big push to from traditional. “Attend- give them the ‘wow’ expe- make the product even ees are absolutely blown rience. Customizing spe- more fresh by finishing away when they open up cial requests and meeting the dish out on the floor the lunchbox expecting the with chefs give clients a for attendees to see.” standard plastic-wrapped sense of partnership. Each sandwich and chips and event involves working James Katurakes instead find our Ploughman’s Executive Chef together to make sure Lunchbox featuring mor- Centerplate each guest gets healthy — Orange County Convention Center inga-ricotta, honey, berries, or comfort — foods.” hard cooked egg, smoked The Orange County turkey sausage, pickled pearl Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, that’s due to supply and demand.” onions, seven-grain wafers and chia seed has an aeroponic garden where chefs Just as planner’s roles are impacted dusted kale chips.” harvest approximately 850 plants a by food trends, that’s true for chefs, too. But, Smith notes, “The majority of week. The center’s house-grown plants “Planners want chefs in the dining rooms attendees still eat traditional meat diets. include sprouts, microgreens and ‘finishing’ the product,” Katurakes notes. Through smart planning and good rela- herbs offered to groups as a “farm-to- “There’s a big push to make the product tionships with event planners, we can table” option. even more fresh by finishing the dish out offer amazing food to guests with every James Katurakes, executive chef on the floor for attendees to see.” possible dietary preference.” with Centerplate, says one trend he’s That deeper connection to the food Does that come with a price tag? seeing is increased interest in ethnic is something Matt Smith, CEC, CCA, “Planners,” Smith says, “understand cuisines including Korean barbecue executive chef with Levy Conven- that catering to the specialized needs of and Pho noodles. “Noodle soup has tion Centers at the Greater Columbus their attendees results in greater guest been extremely popular in the last Convention Center in Ohio is seeing satisfaction and engagement, and this is couple of years.” as well. “Attendees have always talked well worth the small additional cost.” He lists grain salads and artisan about wanting to eat healthfully, but Certainly F&B trends come and go. items as trending, with artisan foods now we’re seeing guests who have But after all is said and done, is healthy, providing that desired sense of place. invested real time and thought into fresh, local convention food really a “Our clients are wanting a more unique, what this means for their lifestyle,” he trend? It’s probably better described as authentic approach to their food. I don’t says. “Event planners andTropLV.com guests want | 3801today’s Las Vegas norm, Blvd.and planners, South | 1.888.810.8767chefs and | 1.702.739.2581 | [email protected] Facebook.com/TropLV @TropLV @TropLV see that trend going away anytime soon.” to know more about how we source associations are embracing it. | AC&F |

18 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com INDUSTRYTIPS

ou can’t have a convention nals to target. partner of consulting firm, Embed- without technology, and “The sheer amount of data trans- ded-Knowledge Inc., says cyber- you can’t keep computers, ferred and shared between two criminals are simply a 21st-century Y tablets, phones and other parties at a convention can be astro- version of a tradition of crooks that devices used by attendees at a con- nomical,” he says. “A single entity dates back hundreds of years. vention safe without taking steps potentially lacking proper security “Large groups of people gathering that protect all those gadgets from protections and getting compro- for events were usually a target for cybercriminals. mised can spell tremendous risks to criminals, from pickpockets to cell Even small conventions are sure sensitive personal data ending up in phone thieves and purse grabbers,” to see lots of devices in use for all the wrong hands.” says Campos, who has decades of sorts of reasons. A speech or talk According to Michael Schenck, experience solving complex programs given by an expert or executive will director of security services for for global organizations, including as likely feature a PowerPoint presen- Kaytuso, attendees at conventions a former Microsoft executive. “Today, tation, music may be played through often are confident that the host cybercriminals joined the ranks of BY KEITH LORIA a computer and participants are organization is being vigilant about those willing to take advantage of dis- sure to be using their phones to cybersecurity, but that confidence tracted conference attendees, cocktail email and text. often isn’t earned. gadflies and meeting-goers. This new Keeping conventions safe is a “Convention centers are more focus is due to the value of the infor- 24/7 aspect of the job for anyone dangerous than a midtown Star- mation in their electronic devices who plans conventions for a living. bucks for cybersecurity,” Schenck — computers, laptops, tablets, and “Any responsible phones — which store a event organizer should trove of personal sensi- already have a cyber “The sheer amount of tive information, such incident response plan data transferred and as financial records.” in place prior to the shared between two He adds that sur- start of the convention parties at a convention veys indicate these so that they can follow can be astronomical.” threats are getting proper security proto- worse on a daily cols and limit the scope Attila Tomaschek basis, with reports and negative impact Digital Privacy Expert of hacking regularly of a potential breach,” ProPrivacy.com making the news. says Attila Tomaschek, “Event planners, as digital privacy expert well attendees, are usu- for ProPrivacy.com. says. “The biggest threat is the trust ally non-expert consumers of tech- He adds that conventions repre- that comes as part of human nature. nology,” says Campos, co-author of sent a perfect setting for hackers and Conventions are advertised events “From Problem Solving to Solution cyber thieves to infiltrate computers where everyone is there for a pur- Design: Turning Ideas Into Actions.” and other gadgets. pose — a common thread. Addition- “Criminals go after this information “Conventions are a great oppor- ally, people are typically there for so that they can use it to enable illicit tunity for organizations within a social and professional networking, online financial transactions.” specific industry to come together to so we are likely to let our guard Another issue according to Cam- learn from each other and to share down. That’s the beginning of it; pos, is that people aren’t knowledge- ideas,” Tomaschek says. “They are easy targets and the creation of a tar- able about the security configura- also, unfortunately, a great oppor- get-rich environment. The rest is all tions of their devices. Other factors tunity for hackers and other cyber- the obvious — unprotected systems, that make it easy for cybercriminals criminals to exploit certain vul- rogue Wi-Fi, compromised phone to infiltrate devices are lack of secu- nerabilities and steal valuable and charging stations, HD cameras that rity updates and older gadgets with sensitive data from organizers and could easily be used to record key- outdated cybersecurity capabilities. attendees alike.” strokes, the list goes on.” “Cyber criminals are individu- Tomaschek notes that larger als looking to take advantage of conventions are often at a greater MODERN-DAY ill-configured electronic devices to risk than smaller ones, because PICKPOCKETS steal personal and financial informa- How to Ensure Your Conventions with more people networking and Obviously, theft is not a new tion,” he says. “The ultimate goal is sharing information, there are more concept, and J. Eduardo Campos, to make money quickly and cleanly, Are Cyber Secure potential victims for cybercrimi- founder, president and managing which sometimes involves black-

20 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 21 Robert Siciliano, onstage, a security using public Wi-Fi, and he never faced invites criminal hacking,” Siciliano says. will be required on the users’ end to awareness expert and CEO of Safr.Me, says any issue again.” “It is best to engage in either password- ensure they load the certificates into that in general, attendees of a convention are Lipman agrees that the most secure protected encrypted Wi-Fi, or encour- their devices, but it will protect them more vulnerable than hosts. method in protecting information age the attendees to enlist a virtual pri- from connecting to a rogue access is to use a personal VPN to connect vate network software to encrypt and point that is pretending to be the real to the internet. lock down their wireless connection.” access points.” “VPN solutions offer protection He adds that in addition to sonal information to another individual across multiple devices, and the cost cybertheft, convention attendees also STEPS FOR SECURITY at the event posing as a legitimate busi- of protecting them is relatively cents should take precautions against the old- Free Wi-Fi is common in all sorts of ness contact. Event organizers are per day,” he says. “It’s actually really fashioned kind of thievery. places — libraries, coffee shops, hotels, also certainly at a heightened risk of a simple for hackers to set up a fake mali- “Theft of digital devices left in con- etc. — and while Tomaschek says these potential breach simply due to the vast cious network and pretend to be ‘Free ference rooms during breaks or lunch is networks can easily be infiltrated by amounts of registration data contain- SFO Airport Wi-Fi network’ or ‘Star- a big problem in a convention environ- cybercriminals, conventions can still ing all kinds of personal information bucks Wi-Fi.’ A personal VPN allows ment,” Siciliano says. “Attendees tend offer a free Wi-Fi network to attendees, that organizers collect from attendees. convention attendees to avoid putting to feel that their items are not suscep- along with advice as to how partici- Such a wealth of data is a gold mine for themselves at risk while connecting to tible to physical theft and put too much pants can protect their gadgets. cybercriminals and therefore needs to an unknown network.” reliance on trusting the nonexistent “Attendees should feel free to use the be properly protected via the strictest Tomaschek adds that convention event security.” provided Wi-Fi network as long as they of security protocols.” organizers should make sure that all Anthony Bustamante, a professor protect their internet activity and use mailing over sensitive pictures, embar- are just in the lobby or close enough to Campos says all participants of a of their devices are secured through in the cybersecurity management fac- a VPN whenever they connect to the rassing emails, or simple ransom — they pick up a Wi-Fi signal — can easily ask convention are at risk, both organiz- strong passwords or finger- will lock you out of your computer and an attendee to give them the password ers and attendees, for several reasons, print-scanning technology, will only unlock it after you pay a ran- — and many attendees would offer it including the value of personal finan- which protects computers, som, which we don’t recommend you to be friendly,” he says. “They could, cial records on the black market and the tablets and phones from unau- to do at all.” in fact, be giving a fraudster or hacker low level of preparedness that exists at thorized access. Paul Lipman, CEO of award-win- easy access to the network and leav- many conventions. “Organizers should also ning cybersecurity company Bull- ing anyone who is accessing the Wi-Fi “Passwords, financial data, and other ensure that their systems are Guard, says cybercriminals come in all open to having their data and other per- sensitive personal information quickly properly encrypted to secure shapes and sizes and all sorts of demo- sonal information at risk for a potential show up on the darknet after a breach, their data as well as attendee graphic backgrounds. hack or breach.” where criminals freely negotiate with data,” Tomaschek says. “Con- “But what they’re the best buyer when ference attendees also need to looking for is simple not directly engaging in take certain critical precau- — access to personal “Cybercriminals can easily take blackmailing the original tions when attending a confer- information and advantage of an unprotected information owner,” he ence and interacting with con- data they can use for network where there are says. “To prevent attacks tacts. Attendees should also malicious purposes, multiple users connected to that put convention ensure that their devices are or to extort bitcoins the same network.” crowds at risk of losing properly password protected, or payment through control of their sensi- disable wireless communica- ransomware, infect Paul Lipman tive information, there tion features like Bluetooth, computers with CEO must be a minimal set connect only to the official trusted ulty at Tulane University’s School of Michael Schenck and the team from Kaytuso, malware and other BullGuard of protective measures Wi-Fi network of the conference, use Professional Advancement, says cyber- pictured, offer security suggestions to meeting fraudulent purposes to promptly detect and a VPN to encrypt all online activity security begins with the most basic planners and attendees such as using a virtual such as identity thwart cyberattacks.” and just use common sense and never of steps, including setting up strong private network to encrypt online activity. theft, and for financial gain. Cyber Schenck says just who cybercrimi- The most common tools used are share any information other than what passwords that aren’t taped to your criminals can easily take advantage of nals are could depend on the nature of antivirus solutions. However, they are is necessary.” laptop and tablet. an unprotected network where there the convention. not a silver bullet. Campos had a col- Robert Siciliano, a security aware- “I’ve walked into banks before where network,” Tomaschek says. are multiple users connected to the “It could be people looking to make league who had all the security config- ness expert and CEO of Safr.Me, says an employee’s username and password Schenck suggests following the same network.” money on ransomware, looking to cre- urations well-done and good antivirus in general, attendees of a convention into the banking system were on a sticky same steps that are used to secure any He adds that open Wi-Fi networks ate or expand a botnet for an unrelated installed, and had his laptop breached are more vulnerable than hosts. “But note where I could see it,” he says. computer, such as MFA (Multi-Factor allow these cybercriminals to distribute activity, identity thieves, or even espio- anyway. He discovered after the fact this might also depend on the country He adds that all staff working on Authentication), hardened configura- malware to anyone who is connected to nage — national, economic or indus- that he had been using a compromised in which the event is being hosted,” he a convention should be trained on tions, encryption, locking policies and that network “in the blink of an eye.” trial,” he says. Wi-Fi network in his monthly profes- says. “Overseas in Asia, Russia, China or the best practices for cybersecurity, current advanced anti-malware. And conventions are attractive sional gathering, which would down- South America, hacking Wi-Fi isn’t just and encouraged to report on suspi- “Use a VPN before connecting to targets for these thieves, Lipman says, CYBERCRIME VICTIMS load a computer’s antivirus into his for fun and profit, it is a sport.” cious activity. anything but a recognized hotspot, because many conventions do not One of the key reasons cybersecurity device at every connection, disabling “The same security principles that or better yet, use a tethered device or require passwords to access the Wi-Fi needs to be a priority when planning a his antivirus to begin with. PROTECT YOUR WI-FI you apply as a meeting planner will mobile hotspot you control,” he says. in use, and if there is a password, it’s convention is that any participant who “My friend had to spend hours Any center that hosts conventions is also apply to your attendees, but one Lipman suggests that planners often easy to guess or it’s written on uses a device on the convention’s Wi-Fi cleaning the virus infection of his bound to offer free Wi-Fi to organizers additional option to increase the secu- make sure there is a WPA2 (Wi-Fi Pro- papers that are included in brochures is a potential target. laptop,” Campos says. “Moreover, he and participants of any convention, but rity of your attendees’ Wi-Fi connec- tected Access) password on the Wi-Fi or packets given to attendees. “Both attendees and organizers are started using a special software called an unprotected Wi-Fi network can put tion is to incorporate PKI certificates network that is being used at the con- “Any person at the conference — at risk,” Tomaschek says. “Attendees VPN — Virtual Private Network — users at risk. into the Wi-Fi authentication pro - vention. He adds that planners should even if they are not an attendee and can easily be tricked into providing per- which protected his connections while “Free, open, unencrypted Wi-Fi cess,” Bustamante says. “Extra steps recommend that all attendees use a

22 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 23 J. Eduardo Campos, founder, president and managing partner of Embedded-Knowledge Inc., says cybercriminals are a 21st-century version of crooks that dates back decades.

puter models and software. “A breach typically results from one system being compromised and an attacker leveraging the trust relationship between this machine and all other internal machines on the network,” he says. “When credentials are stolen, they will likely work across the domain to some extent. Now contrast this with a convention network. Attendees that connect to the centralized network are likely to be running a wide variety of virtual private network to add another Those steps include being wary hardware and software. Authentica- layer of protections. of email attachments and web links, tion is not centralized and there is no “VPNs enable consumers to safe- especially from senders you don’t trust relationship between devices. In guard their online privacy — flying know. Also, don’t connect unknown or the latter scenario it is much more dif- under the radar and surfing the inter- untrusted storage devices or hardware ficult to have a crisis response plan, in net in stealth mode while retaining to your computer or mobile device, which a specialized team is hired to complete anonymity via military- for example don’t share USN sticks or conduct an investigation to determine grade encryption,” Lipman says. “VPN external hard drives between suspi- the nature of the breach.” works by hiding a consumer’s origin IP cious computers or devices. He also At this type of event, the most pru- address, preventing others — including says not to download software from dent course of action is to respond ISPs and government organizations — an unknown web page, be very careful quickly and to be as transparent as from monitoring their online browsing when you do download files, and use possible with attendees and ven - activity, what websites they visit, what freeware or shareware. Finally, don’t dors about what has transpired, this they download or what services and share personal or business information will allow them the opportunity to applications they use.” because criminals can impersonate you take the necessary next steps to pro - Furthermore, attendees should be and send fake emails to your contacts. tect their assets. given official convention Wi-Fi login Campos says all attendees should details with regularly updated pass- IN THE EVENT OF A BREACH be noted of any potential breach, and words. One thing they shouldn’t do is So let’s say a planner is overseeing that law enforcement should also be assume the first public Wi-Fi that shows a convention and it’s going wonder- contacted. And always collaborate with up on their device is the proper one. fully. Attendees are communicating, a cybersecurity expert who can help “To keep themselves even more pro- networking, and discovering new ideas with these situations. He added that he tected, attendees should be encouraged that can help their businesses and has worked with clients who experi- to use their own personal VPN, like careers. But then the planner suspects enced breaches. BullGuard VPN, on their laptops, tablets a breach has occurred. “It happened because users were and phones to protect themselves from Tomaschek says the first step is to not prepared to identify an attack,” potential cyberattacks,” Lipman says. identify and isolate the breach. “In the Campos says. “They clicked on email Campos says keeping cyber - event of a breach, organizers should attachments that downloaded a criminals at bay requires specialized also immediately notify attendees of virus in several computers. After the software tools. These include anti- the threat and clearly communicate fact, they were trained and it never virus that shields your device and to them the steps they should take to happened again.” VPNs to protect your connections protect themselves and their devices He adds that it all starts with people to public Wi-Fi. from the incident,” he says. “Organiz- and the processes that are put in place “Also, it’s important to keep pace ers also must communicate to attend- before any technology is employed. with the constant update of the soft- ees the nature of the incident and “Work on user awareness, give step- ware — such as monthly free Windows exactly what steps they are taking in by-step guidance, and keep a channel updates — and device configurations. response to the incident and how it open for alerts and their feedback,” This series of steps is also known as will be resolved.” Campos says. “In terms of processes, ‘cybersecurity hygiene,’” he says. Bustamante says a breach at a con- work with an expert to develop a check- He suggests creating a daily rou- vention is different from their con- list to ensure you have safe Wi-Fi con- tine and habits, featuring some simple ventional counterparts at companies, nections, updated devices and the right steps, in addition to updating your anti- where computer systems reside on software to protect your electronic virus software. one network and use similar com- devices and connections.” | AC&F |

24 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com INDUSTRYTRENDS

Planners Must Increasingly Tailor Educational Information to a Global Audience

DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

China and India offer tremendous growth opportunities, so more associations are hosting events in these countries and others around the world. As the meetings and conventions industry branches out to more international attendees, planners must remember to adjust their content and methods.

hile planners aren’t necessarily but also there are more opportunities to reach a content experts in their asso- wider audience,” Goblirsch notes. “Virtual con- ciation’s field, they are integral to ferences are contributing to expanding global W the delivery of education. Typi- presence. And even if you have an event that is cally, they collaborate with the organization’s happening domestically and is targeted domesti- committee members and educational designers cally, there are still likely international attendees. to determine the ideal venue, speakers, format, So it’s important to keep that mindset of who the schedule and other elements of the sessions, tak- audience is and how you are catering content to a ing into account the audience demographics. And more diverse group of attendees.” increasingly, audiences include more interna- The most direct way to reach new inter- tional attendees as associations hold more meet- national audiences is of course to stage more ings globally and welcome more international international meetings, particularly in regions delegates to domestic meetings. where membership is growing or shows promise A sign of the times is that associations, in of growing. Among the many U.S.-based asso- general, are expanding their global presences, ciations where this initiative is a priority are the according to Erin Goblirsch, manager of Smith- Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) and Bucklin’s, Education & Learning Services divi- RIMS, the Risk Management Society. “SAH con- sion. “That’s just the world we live in these days, tinues to look for new international destinations

DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

26 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 27 for our annual conference after our “It helps to have a committee that really tification-related core courses in every SAH opens our Call for Sessions every 2017 Glasgow, Scotland conference,” embodies who the attendees are going region with the same base content and October, we encourage session submis- says Christopher Kirbabas, director of to be as far as age, industry sector, where delivery, some of the educational con- sions with topics that explore the built programs. “SAH has an opportunity to they’re from in the world, etc. You can tent must be region-specific, based on environment of the city and region that increase our global presence and con- really test ideas within the committee the nature of the local amusement park we are in,” Kirbabas says. “Of the final tinue to introduce new international and ask, ‘Is this going to work? Is this industry. “Certain things that apply in 36 sessions chosen, we typically will audiences to SAH, our mission and something you would attend?’ I rely on America may not apply in other regions. get one or two sessions that highlight to others who share a passion for the at least a couple of people from the host The topic that we vary the most on local topics. SAH also offers a Saturday built environment.” While content-wise would be morning seminar that highlights a city- RIMS’ Annual Confer- safety. We do have a Safety specific topic or project that is of inter- ence has not yet left North “The education Institute that is a core cur- est to locals.” America and will likely not committee is critical riculum course, but there do so for many years, “we to planning content, are different laws and rules ENGAGE LOCAL SPEAKERS have developed new global because they are the in each region specific to Involving local speakers is a major events that are regional how safety is administered component of SAH’s regionalized edu- in nature,” says Stuart subject-matter experts.” and how different regions cation. Its local planning committees Ruff-Lyon, CMP, DES, Erin Goblirsch need to follow procedures.” help source architectural historians vice president, events and Manager, Education & Learning Services Similarly, RIMS’ plan- and other industry stakeholders in the exhibitions. “We are hold- SmithBucklin ning team relies on regional meeting destination. ing risk forums in China, advisory groups to help “We also work with the CVB to help PechaKucha, a storytelling presentation RIMS, the Risk Management Society, Singapore, Australia, New customize content for its identify individuals and organizations style where 20 slides are shown succes- hosted the Risk Forum India 2018. RIMS is Zealand and Colombia in 2019. We are committee who know the attendees international conferences, while still who can contribute their expertise to sively, with 20 seconds of commentary hosting global events to take advantage heavily focused on India and China. We on the ground.” representing topics of global interest our attendees,” Kirbabas says. “We on each, is super popular, it may not be of tremendous growth opportunities. see tremendous growth opportunities The International Association of among the membership, such as enter- engage with local experts to be speak- right for an audience or speakers who in these countries, and we are proud to Amusement Parks and Attractions prise risk management. “We always ers, panelists or tour leaders of our 20 expect a traditional presentation format help develop the risk management dis- (IAAPA), for example, relies on its tailor our event content to regional- or more tours conducted throughout with statistic-heavy content.” Pacific attendees, they prefer to learn by ciplines in these regions.” regional committees and task forces ize our education. We examine the the four-day conference. Based on listening and asking questions. They’re to help determine session content for needs of the prospective audience, the subject, we invite local historians, ATTENDEE PARTICIPATION culturally more comfortable giving and PREPARING FOR AN its international meetings, which are and work hard to build programs that preservationists, architects, govern- CONSIDERED IDEAL receiving information. That doesn’t INTERNATIONAL EVENT held in cities throughout North Amer- will help risk professionals advance ment officials and other experts to do a Highly interactive sessions, where mean that I wouldn’t suggest trying If an event held internationally will ica, Latin America, Europe and Asia. the risk management profession and deep dive to understand the history and the attendee is regularly participating, something new and different.” see robust local attendance, the educa- “The higher-level executives from the the discipline,” Ruff-Lyon explains. context of the seminar subject and gain are often considered ideal these days. In this age of busy profession- tional offerings should naturally reflect big industry partners such as Disney, “We use our regional advisory groups better understanding from the varied “The interactive piece has been very als seeking quickly digestible infor- the interests and professional profiles Universal and Europa-Park and repre- to weigh-in on our call-for-proposals stakeholders.” consistent over the years,” Shelton says. mation, shorter-length sessions are of that audience. The association’s com- sentatives from different amusement process on our international regional For several reasons, leveraging local “We have an industry that loves to share likely to be popular across cultures. mittee is an invaluable resource in this facilities that make up our committees meetings’ agendas. The groups review speakers can be advantageous. “I think information and knowledge; they love IAAPA has begun offering “micro ses- regard, especially the members who and task forces help us identify top- session submissions and simultane- they help bring a level of authenticity to to talk about what each park is doing in sions” designed to maintain attention. are familiar with the local contingent. ics relevant to the region,” explains ously propose other ideas and speakers an event,” Goblirsch says. “It may not their location.” “They’re much more focused on one “The education committee is critical to Michael Shelton, director of program for our agendas. We also rely on our be economical for a nonprofit associa- ‘Talking head’ style presentations, specific topic instead of having four or planning content because they are the management in the IAAPA Education local sponsors to suggest content and tion to fly speakers in from around the on the other hand, are often disparaged five presenters over an hour-and-a-half subject-matter experts,” Goblirsch says. Department. While IAAPA offers cer- propose speakers. Really, we wouldn’t world. And one reason period,” Shelton explains. have successful programs in non-North people travel to con- “We stay current on trends American regions without our advisory ferences is to have the “We also work with the CVB in the industry and adult groups and local partners/sponsors.” opportunity to hear new to help identify individuals learning, so the session In order to advance the profession in speakers with different and organizations who can formatting decisions are areas where it is less developed, RIMS perspectives. We try contribute their expertise a combination of what we is offering more introductory courses to find local experts to to our attendees.” hear from our attendees and outside of the United States and “cre- share their knowledge, trying to meet their needs ating new online digital events that are such as professors from Christopher Kirbabas professionally.” regionalized and introductory,” he adds. nearby universities.” Director of Programs Translation services are Content that is geared toward the Not only content, Society of Architectural Historians needed for some IAAPA local attendees can also emerge directly but also the session for- international meetings, such from the call for proposals process, mat sometimes needs to as those in China. particularly if the desire for such top- be appropriated to the local audience as passé. Yet again, cultural consider- “Although the session may be in ics is emphasized in the CFP. “When based on their cultural preferences. ations, as opposed to ‘what’s trendy,’ English, one of the panelists may speak According to Goblirsch, who special- should inform the formatting choice. a little English but he wants to answer izes in educational design, “whether “In North America, our expectation in simplified Chinese,” explains KC Attendees take a break on a South African or not there are trending formats, it’s generally is interaction, and more often Doreste, CMP, director, meetings safari, a planned excursion during an education- really important to consider your audi- than not attendees are more comfort- and special events at IAAPA. She has focused meeting for medical services ence and their culture. Do they want to able having roundtable conversations,” adopted a few best practices in sourc- professionals. SDI, part of the SmithBucklin participate or would they rather sit back Goblirsch says. “But if you’re planning ing translators, including ensuring they family, planned the event. and listen? So even if something like an event that’s highly attended by Asia- can do simultaneous ‘real time’ trans-

28 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 29 Translation services are needed for some international meetings. Planners must consider DESIGNED FOR GOLF DEVOTEES AND how different cultures absorb information. DEALMAKERS.

them in a room all day long, especially when they’re in training meetings for three days,” Doreste says. Educational tours of local amusement parks are another way IAAPA varies the setting for its participants. Goblirsch has a similar philosophy: “We know that adults learn differently than children, and part of that is giving them the opportunity to have different experiences. So whenever possible, I try to embrace the benefits of the destination and give people the opportunity to explore while also learning.” For example, when staging the lation. “We also have the devices that idea,” Goblirsch advises. The schedule educational program for a travel asso- can switch from channel 1 to channel should also be compatible with the ciation meeting in Bangkok, her team 2, so that way if you don’t understand long midday lunch breaks that are the held “educational immersions” at them you can go to the other channel custom in some cultures such as Spain. three off-site locations, and attendees and they’ll be translated. So the better “Some businesses close in the after- selected the one that best suited them: the translator and the better the equip- noon and you may want to have a break • Thailand Creative & Design Cen- ment, the bigger the reward. In the in your day to reflect that because the ter. Thailand Creative & Design Center past we’ve flown with the teams that hotel or convention center may also was founded to integrate the ingenious- have done this, but we’ve learned that practice those customs,” she adds. ness of Thai society and culture with local translation companies usually are Some audiences may prefer more modern knowledge and technology. better because they understand their breaks, as the RIMS planning team TCDC includes exhibitions, talks, work- equipment and the technical demands has learned through experience. “For shops and a resource center designed to in the particular convention center.” example, we know not to serve a heavy inspire creativity. breakfast in India, and instead add • Soy Sauce Factory, which has been OVERCOMING THE more tea breaks to our schedule,” renamed 56th Studio. This is a creative LANGUAGE BARRIER Ruff-Lyon says. space that focuses on art and design In addition to overcoming the Educational designers know that exhibitions from emerging young art- occasional language barrier, the basics the setting where learning takes places ists from all over the world. The venue of planning educational programs in impacts engagement and retention, is a combination of design studios, gal- other countries include a sensitivity to and for that reason it’s valuable to take lery space and pop-up eatery. local scheduling customs. learners out of the conference room • P. Tendercool, which was cre- Independently owned and operated, Rosen Shingle Creek is the David Tharp, executive ated by Duangrit Bunnag, ideal Orlando meeting hotel, able to deliver the quality incentives director of the Interna- Thailand’s most famous you expect from a AAA Four Diamond property. We invite you to tional Association for Food “We know not to serve a architect. P. Tendercool experience the Rosen Dierence for yourself by selecting one of Protection, observes that heavy breakfast in India, is a 43,000-sf rustic gal- “Sometimes it is appro- and instead add more tea lery studio that shows our Added Value oerings: priate to begin sessions breaks to our schedule.” cross-cultural creations at 8 a.m. ending at 5 p.m., of unique furniture and • Signing bonus starting at $5,000 applied to master account* and other times it may be Stuart Ruff-Lyon, CMP, DES home décor from talented better to begin at 9 a.m. Vice President, Events and Exhibitions local workmanship. • Discounts on meeting Internet or even 9:30 a.m. and run RIMS, the Risk Management Society Educational programs • Complimentary coee break until 6 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. It held at such venues bring • Suggest your own incentive, designed just for you is best for us to rely on the attendees closer to the local organizing body to provide direc- on occasion. Thus, tailoring the edu- local culture and ultimately send a tion on these decisions.” cational experience should involve more memorable message. Ideally, To take advantage of these limited-time concession oerings, Latin American and certain leveraging the destination’s off-site then the design of the learning pro - visit RosenShingleCreek.com/ROI. European audiences tend to prefer venues to imbue the program with gram will reflect not only the local 407.996.4890 | [email protected] a later start. local character and improve learning membership base in terms of their “In Europe they might not eat din- outcomes. IAAPA, for example, has professional interests and business No Resort Fee • Complimentary In-room Wi-Fi • RFID Key Locking System ner until 9 or 10 p.m., so having ses - held sessions at venues such as Shang- culture, but also the destination sions that start at the crack of dawn hai Disney Resort and Ferrari World itself and the resources it offers the *Concession oerings are valid for NEW bookings received on or after 8/1/19 for meetings booked and consumed over select hot dates in 2019 (call or email for hot dates). Bookings must meet a the next morning may not be a good Abu Dhabi. “We don’t want to keep group. | AC&F | minimum of 250 room nights and a designated minimum of food and beverage contributions at Rosen Shingle Creek. After signing, bonuses will be awarded starting at $5,000 and applied to master accounts. 30 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com INDUSTRYINSIGHT

plenty of places to meet where there is ibility were keys to the meeting’s suc- Christ Inc. (AFC) overcame to hold a value available. These destinations may cess. “We had the ability to expand,” 3,000-attendee event for Christian Chi- not have a theme park or beach nearby, Serrano says. “We originally booked for nese churches in North America at the but they often have value propositions 2,000 people in the general session, but Baltimore Convention Center (BCC). that will still appeal to attendees.” the VBCC was able to accommodate Attendee hotels included the Hilton SMERF groups often find value in an additional 1,800 due to their large Baltimore Inner Harbor and Baltimore second- and third-tier des- Marriott Inner Harbor tinations that are less costly at Camden Yards. than their larger counterparts “Being a not-for-profit According to Cath- and offer more competitive religious organization, erine Roberts, convention deals. One such destination is funds are very limited.” manager, Chinese Mis- Virginia Beach, a popular draw sion at AFC, “Looking for for SMERF groups. Selene Serrano a location in the North- The Spanish Eastern Dis- WM District Financial Officer east corridor for a budget trict of the Assemblies of God Spanish Eastern District of the conscious group is quite Assemblies of God recently met for the second a challenge, especially time at the Virginia Beach for our group that needs Convention Center (VBCC), nearly 200,000 sf. Balti- Vibe Cincinnati works one of the largest convention centers on facilities and flexibility. We were also more provided affordable and available with local and national partners to create the East Coast and the nation’s first to allowed to come in the night before the space. The BCC is easy to work with, immersive multicultural earn LEED Gold certification from the meeting started at no extra charge to and they make a great team with the experiences for SMERF U.S. Green Building Council. store and set up items. This helped us Hilton and Marriott.” groups that host events Originally, the group considered save time in the morning.” “Visit Baltimore worked closely in Cincinnati. the VBCC due to a recommendation. with us to clear the last financial and According to Selene Serrano, WM dis- Location and Service logistical hurdles,” Roberts adds. “They trict financial officer, “We belong to a Location and service were also big offered us some creative ways to offset larger organization and we ask similar pluses for the Spanish Eastern District. the cost of renting space at the con- groups in the organization about their “The property is conveniently vention center.” experiences and properties they have located in the city, making it easily In the past, the AFC preferred to use used in the past.” accessible from all hotels, and it’s also a retreat center or a large hotel where Smart SMERFs After meeting with VBCC offi- just a few blocks from the beach, res- the meeting space is part of the overall cials, the group chose it in large part taurants and entertainment,” Serrano package, including rooms and meals. because the convention center met the says. “Overall, we as well as our attend- However, “Baltimore was the first con- SMERF Numbers Add up to Big Business group’s budget needs. ees, were extremely satisfied. We will vention center without hotel rooms we “In our case, being a not-for-profit certainly return to this property soon.” have used,” Roberts says. “And Visit Bal- for Destinations, Hotels and Venues religious organization, funds are very It can be a big challenge for the timore made that possible.” limited,” Serrano says. “The money fac- Spanish Eastern District and other It was the AFC’s second time using tor impacts greatly the negotiating and larger SMERF groups to find the right the BCC. As with many SMERF groups, By Derek Reveron selection process, whereas you want to space at affordable cost. local community connections also played provide the best by keeping the cost at It’s a hurdle that Ambassadors for a role in the AFC’s decision to return. he meetings industry is full Association, “I think SMERF events stay of the meetings industry, they must a reasonable rate. Some properties have of unique acronyms, but none are a consistent market. Many are overcome certain challenges to obtain little to no flexibility.” are catchier than SMERF mandated by their by-laws to meet on good value. For example, meetings and But, Serrano adds, that wasn’t the COURTESY OF WASHINGTON.ORG T (social, military, educational, a regular basis. When the economy is budgets tend to be small and attendees case with the VBCC. religious and fraternal) groups. good, these events tend to attract more typically pay their own way and lack “We received great value in rooms, Although SMERF groups typi- people, but even in bad economic times, expense accounts. F&B and other fees,” Serrano says. cally are small, their numbers add the events still meet.” As a result, controlling hotel costs “The catering service helped in host- up to big business for destinations, Indeed, the dedication of SMERF is crucial. About 60 percent of SMERF ing a lunch for leaders by providing hotels and venues. attendees to their organizations drives planners say expensive hotel rates are accessible prices, a great selection and Here’s why: They book rooms on meeting consistency. the top reasons for not choosing a desti- awesome quality. The concessions had weekends, during shoulder seasons and “SMERF attendees are passionate nation, according to a survey conducted a variety of food items at reasonable off-peak times when corporate groups about their causes — social, military, by Destination Analysts Inc. prices for attendees.” are least likely to meet. They tend to be education, religious or fraternal,” Jones In addition, Serrano says, the VBCC’s loyal to properties and destinations and says. “When attendees are passionate, How to Get the Best Deal location, logistical help and space flex- they have dedicated attendees who con- they prioritize their decisions. This Getting the best deals requires tinue to meet during economic down- leads to wanting to be involved, want- out-of-the-box thinking by planners. turns with little or no attendance decline. ing to attend, wanting to volunteer and “Smart SMERF planners are looking Although SMERF groups often have small According to Dean Jones, CMP, leading the charge for their cause. This off the beaten path,” Jones says. “They budgets, venues work with them because director of conferences and events for tends to lead to growth in meetings.” are exploring destinations and venues their members are loyal and they show up the Religious Conference Management While SMERF groups are a main- they’ve not considered before. There are even during economic downturns.

32 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 33 “First and foremost is the importance Flexibility for Dates periods which means lower rates and Be reasonable with your wish list and of our local partners,” Roberts says. and Patterns an opportunity for our hotel partners you’ll find more opportunity.” “Our event is a partnership between our Flexibility was also a key. to fill occupancy gaps. We look at hotel organization and Chinese churches in “I did some give and take with con- need dates to determine how we can Getting the Best the local areas — in this case Baltimore cessions in order to make sure we were best fill those gaps and at what cost.” Possible Value and Washington, DC. Having partnered within budget,” Feldman says. “In the SMERF meeting planners say it’s Flexibility alone won’t get the best with them once, we reaped the benefits end, the room rate was within my cli- important to have at least two sets of possible value. It’s crucial that SMERF of a learning curve with them and met a ent’s budget as was food and beverage off-peak date options that include one planners know and stress their atten- second time in the same location.” pricing. The A/V team really outdid of the following alternatives — arriving dance and spending history. While the SMERF groups such as AFC gener- themselves and came in under my cli- on a Wednesday and departing on a Fri- spend may not be huge, it is usually con- ally have their own strategies for nego- ent’s budget. The hotel was fine for day or arriving on a Sunday and depart- sistent because attendees typically pay tiating with properties, which are to this conference. They were a pleasure ing on a Wednesday. Such options are their own expenses. negotiate aggressively, focus on curbing to work with.” crucial when considering destinations The financial limitations of SMERF the biggest expenses first and exercis- Flexibility is crucial to the ability of where leisure business increases room attendees makes communication ing flexibility when necessary. The goal SMERF groups to get value during the rates on weekends. with properties even more important, is to control out-of-pocket costs for current seller’s market. Being flexible It’s easier for SMERF groups to have according to Brian Parker, CMP, presi- attendees while building attendance. also helps SMERF organizations over- booking flexibility because, unlike cor- dent of Parker Conference Manage- The growing number of options is SMERF planners work with CVBs and Those goals align with Susan Feld- come the limitations of size, budget and porate groups, their annual event may ment Inc., who specializes in planning increasing competition which, in turn, DMOs such as Destination DC, which has man, conference services manager of low attendee on-site spending. be the only travel the group does each meetings for predominately African- generates even better deals. ‘Redcoats’ to work in a variety of positions Ayelet Tours, which recently planned a According to Jones, “Being flex- year. And SMERF meetings can occur American groups. “With many second- and third- to assist attendees at conventions. meeting for a religious organization at ible with dates and patterns can often any time of the year and may take place Parker recently held a successful tier cities vying for the same SMERF the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza determine whether you’ll get to utilize over holidays and weekends. meeting for a group in Washington, DC events, it puts planners in the driver’s hotel for 530 attendees. the venue or destination you desire. If at the Washington Marriott Wardman seat, depending on the destination,” tion professionals, fraternal organiza- Feldman uses the following strategy you can fill a need gap on a calendar for Timing is Important Park, a conference hotel in the Woodley Jones says. “It all seems cyclical, but tions, etc., so we understand what each That is precisely what the AFC does. Park neighborhood. currently, there are many cities that are group needs to connect them with local “We hold our meeting between Parker’s advice: “The best approach interested in attracting the business to resources and contacts to help make the Christmas and New Year’s, a time is to ensure the clearest communication fill gaps in their calendars.” meeting happen. when most hotels are empty,” Roberts possible with hotels. Advise them in In addition, more CVBs are Most of all, Dunn says, “We make says. “Culturally, this is a win for us as advance of the group’s budget restraints designating sales managers to oversee it clear that each event, no matter many Chinese churches usually hold so they can respond with dates, meet- SMERF groups and including the word the group or size, has the potential to retreats over holiday periods when the ing patterns and room own the city and has a whole family can get away together. By rates that are palatable “Special experiences that can wealth of resources at using a quiet time for the industry, we to the group,” Parker be tailored to a specific SMERF their disposal. Special can get the best possible deal on rates, says. “Regarding food experiences that can dates and space.” and beverage expenses, group is a huge draw and helps be tailored to a specific Jones offers the following advise them of budget make them feel welcome.” SMERF group is a huge additional advice: limitations so they can Jason Dunn, CTA draw and helps make “Teaming up with a similar organi- work with you to cus- Group Vice President of them feel welcome.” zation and meeting at the same time and tomize menus, etc.” Diversity Sales and Inclusion Melissa Riley, vice place, and perhaps sharing space and Parker has planned Cincinnati USA CVB president, convention menus can be a huge savings and give meetings for the sales and services, Des- more buying power,” Jones says. “Book- National Association tination DC, makes it Cincinnati USA’s Vibe Cincinnati a hotel, you’ll be more likely to get the ing a multiyear deal in the same city, or of Black Accountants, the Associa- “SMERF” in the job titles. For example, the clear why SMERF groups are valued. program targets multicultural deal you need.” with the same hotel chain can possibly tion for the Study of African Ameri- Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau “What’s most important to recog- SMERF groups. Jones says that SMERF groups’ generate some savings over time.” can Life and History and the National has a “Director of National Accounts: nize is that overall, the SMERF market flexibility paired with all that they offer Prioritizing concession lists Association of Health Services Execu- National Associations & SMERF.” is stable and predictable,” Riley says. can help planners strike deals. can also help. tives. Such groups often prefer smaller SMERF groups are becoming valu- “Unlike corporate events, SMERF meet- to negotiate SMERF meetings: “When “Many SMERF events bring a lot of “Categorize your concession needs destinations. able to destinations for two other rea- ings are often required by bylaws and I do a search for my SMERF clients,” room nights, and often involve fami- into ‘deal breakers,’ ‘helpful to have’ and “A lot of SMERF-type groups prefer sons: They provide opportunities for reliably take place over certain times Feldman says, “I am always transpar- lies,” Jones says. “These factors often ‘icing on the cake,’” Jones says. “If you ask to meet in second- or third-tier cities new and loyal repeat business. The cat- of year. Meeting attendees, and often ent with the CVB and the hotels, letting generate good revenue for a venue and for and expect everything on your wish because they are less expensive to do egory of SMERF groups are expanding their families, will use conferences as them know what my client’s maximum destination, although they may gener- list, you’ll likely not get it and your event business in,” Parker says. to include special interest, sports and extended vacation opportunities.” room rates and F&B budgets are. The ate room rates lower than those of some will be rejected by a property. But if you Meanwhile, more smaller destina- multicultural. Meanwhile, many SMERF planners religious client that I worked with has other market segments.” determine things you feel you must have tions are courting SMERF groups. For example, Cincinnati USA’s Vibe are aware of the value of CVBs. About 58 stayed at the Hilton Cincinnati Neth- CVB sales executives who assist vs. the rest of your wishes, you are more According to Jones, “Markets that Cincinnati program targets multicul- percent of SMERF planners say they are erland Plaza several times because of SMERF groups also stress the need likely to have favorable consideration.” are interested in enticing SMERF meet- tural SMERF groups. “very familiar” with CVBs, according to its location and the amount of meeting for flexibility. It’s also important to remember the ings often have good incentives avail- According to Dunn, “Through Vibe, the survey by Destination Analysts. space it offers, which is conducive to According to Jason Dunn, CTA, following when negotiating conces- able. Recently, I’ve seen the following we create custom programming that Savvy planners will get the best deal what the meeting was trying to achieve,” group vice president of diversity sales sions: “Each property knows the dol- offered: no attrition, big discounts introduces event attendees and plan- for SMERF meetings by stressing the Feldman says. “The group also has close and inclusion for Cincinnati USA CVB, lar value of your wish list,” Jones says. on meeting space rentals, hotel point ners to Cincinnati’s vibrant mix of loyalty of attendees, their collective ties to the Cincy community as well.” “In order to find the best price, many “Some are easy to provide, some may bonuses, rebates to offset event budgets, cultures. We’ve established local rela- spending history and willingness to groups opt for dates in non-demand be impossible with a hefty price tag. transportation between properties, etc.” tionships with church leaders, educa- meet during off-peak times. | AC&F |

34 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 35 GLOBALDESTINATIONS Canadian Charm Attractive Venues and Beautiful Monuments Make Our Neighbor a Five-Star Destination

By Ron Bernthal

uring the Tourism Indus- U.S. meeting planners than ever before. ated with city-wide public and MICE try Association of Canada’s The meetings and conventions sector events, marking the city’s efforts to CLAUDE BOUCHARD (TIAC) annual conference alone represents more than US$22.5 position itself as a cultural metropolis worrying about climate and ground high-tech amenities. The new Armory Québec City offers plenty of hotel and this past November, it was billion in economic activity. and international-caliber destination,” transportation logistics. is minutes away from the Québec City venue options from which planners can D choose, including Fairmont Le Château reported that business events now It has recently been very economi- says Christopher Marilley, director of Montréal offers many excellent Convention Centre and can welcome accounts for 34.4 percent of all tourism cally advantageous for associations in meeting and convention sales for Tour- hotels that can accommodate groups up to 1,300 people in three large rooms Frontenac, the Québec City Convention in Canada, a big part of Canada’s US$71 the U.S. to organize meetings in Canada, isme Montréal. More than 100 festivals including: Fairmont The Queen Eliza- and a reception area with views of the Centre and Delta Hotels Québec. billion tourism industry. If you include with an extremely favorable exchange happen in Montréal every year, from beth, Le Centre Sheraton Montréal Plains of Abraham. leisure travel that gets booked around rate for U.S. organizations. Thus, Cana- world-class culinary events to large Hotel, Le Westin Montréal, Loews Last year, the American Society of business events, the business event dian suppliers and DMOs expect that outdoor gatherings. Hôtel Vogue, Ritz-Carlton Montréal Mechanical Engineers (ASME) held its sector increases to about 50 percent more U.S.-based planners will be con- The Palais des Congrès de Montréal and the DoubleTree by Hilton Mon- annual International Design Engineer- hotels and looking at transportation of the industry. sidering meeting locations in Canada. (Montréal Convention Centre) is down- tréal. All these properties have ample ing Technical Conference and the Com- logistics, we fell in love with the people What this means is that MICE town just steps away from historic sites, meeting and convention space, restau- puters and Information in Engineering and all the facilities we visited.” events in Canada is increasingly play- MONTRÉAL world-class shopping and dining, the rants and private catering. Conference in Québec City. Valpoort continues, “We used the ing a larger role in the country’s GDP. Last year, passenger traffic into Old Port and the Entertainment Dis- “A professor at Laval University Hilton Québec City and the Delta The lure of organizing meetings, con- Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau trict. More than 16,000 hotel rooms are QUÉBEC CITY in Québec City, who was chair of the Québec City as host hotels, and sev- ferences and trade shows in Canada — International Airport (YUL) from the available within a 10-minute walk from The city’s landmark Fairmont Le planning committee suggested we look eral other nearby hotels for additional lower costs, modern and reliable public U.S. surged almost 12 percent, and each other, including approximately Château Frontenac is a five-star prop- at Québec City for our annual confer- accommodations. Our group of about transportation, high-quality accommo- the Association des hôtels du Grand 4,000 rooms directly accessible via an erty located in Old Québec City, with ence,” says Edmond Valpoort, CMP, 1,250 attendees had adequate space at dations and dining facilities, state-of- Montréal reported hotel occupancy underground pedestrian network. For views of the St. Lawrence River and manager, conferences and events, for the Convention Centre. We had about the-art convention centers, safe and vis- reached 77 percent. meeting planners and delegates, this the historic fortified city. The 611-room ASME. “After visiting the city, touring 35 concurrent breakout sessions every itor friendly cities — is attracting more “This year was again punctu- means you can enjoy Montréal without property offers three restaurants and the Convention Centre and its adjacent day, so the space was ideal.” a large fitness center, as well as 23 Like many association plan- function rooms. ners, Valpoort was pleased with the Located downtown, in a choice of a Canadian destination dynamic neighborhood packed for their international conference. with history and culture, the Cen- They had been to Montréal for two tre des Congrès de Québec (Qué- conferences in previous years. bec City Convention Centre) offers “I’ve been singing the Québec 300,000 sf of exhibition, conven- City song to my planner friends for tion and meeting space in a LEED a while now,” Valpoort says. “Our certified building. The Hilton Qué- post-conference surveys came back bec and Delta Hotels Québec hotels with great reviews from attendees. offer a total of 948 rooms, meeting The location of the Convention spaces and indoor passageways Centre was often mentioned in the that link both properties to the surveys, how attendees were able Convention Centre. to stroll out of the venue at lunch Event planners have a new time and find nice places to eat if venue option — the recently recon- they didn’t want to dine every day structed Voltigeurs de Québec at the conference venue.” Armoury in Old Québec City. Orig- The Convention Centre is just a Montréal is making a inally built in 1885, the structure few minutes away from dozens of proactive push to become was damaged by fire in 2008, but an international destination. reopened for events last year after a Hotel occupancy and visitor Hilton Québec offers 22 numbers are surging. US$75 million reconstruction proj- multipurpose rooms and more than ect that blended its historic archi- 23,000 sf of meeting space. tecture with a modern design and

36 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 37 Toronto offers the Metro Toronto For offsite venues, Assembly Chef’s Convention Centre, which features 442,000 Hall, in downtown Toronto, is Canada’s sf of exhibit space, 77 meeting rooms, first chef-driven food hall venue. Boast- multipurpose ballrooms and a theater ing 15 internationally inspired concepts, equipped for performing arts. Assembly offers five event spaces for a combined 18,000 sf of indoor/outdoor event space. Large outdoor patios with center of the city with a large number of private bars for summer gatherings, hotels within walking distance and easy heated indoor spaces offer spacious access to the city’s great public trans- opportunities in the colder months. port services.” Menus for events are fully customiz- “We contracted with 18 properties able with healthy breakfast and coffee downtown for over 3,300 room nights options, as well as Asian fusion, Italian, at peak, and 90 percent of our room Mexican, Japanese, Mediterranean, inventory was less than 15 minutes’ Thai, barbecue and vegetarian options. walk to the venue,” says Posh. “Being Assembly Chef’s Hall offers comple- a CME accredited medical event, our mentary event planning services. focus is not on social events. However the vast array of restaurants and event OTTAWA venues available in the city surely con- The Shaw Centre offers planners an tributed to enhance our delegates expe- architectural icon in the heart of Cana- excellent restaurants, microbreweries, and entertainment options on the lake- rience in their free time. We did host a da’s capital, within walking distance of agement community. Our society’s 10 RIMS, the Risk Management bistros and sidewalk cafés. The venue shore just minutes from downtown. private themed event at the Hockey 6,000 hotel rooms and an easy 20-min- Canadian chapters alternate as our con- Society, held its annual event in is part of a complex that has two res- The property is the only hotel on the Hall of Fame, a memorable evening ute drive from Ottawa/Macdonald– ference host, so we are looking forward Edmonton last year and plans to taurants, and light meals are available historic Exhibition Place grounds.The for our guests with plenty of photo Cartier International Airport. The Shaw to a well-attended event in 2020.” hold this year’s event in Ottawa. within the Convention Centre. hotel offers more than 80,000 sf of opportunities.” books about 500 conventions, meetings Ruff-Lyon says they have blocked indoor and outdoor event space. Having easy flight connections from and trade/consumer shows a year. rooms at five downtown hotels for TORONTO The International Association for the USA, Europe and Asia was another The Westin Ottawa is connected to attendee bookings. “Our hotel options Tourism Toronto and its meetings, the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) held important element for the attendees, the Shaw Centre and the CF Rideau include the Fairmont Chateau Lau- America’s top-five performing public conferences and events department, its 19th World Conference on Lung Can- and using Toronto’s Pearson Interna- Centre via an indoor walkway, and rier, Novotel Ottawa, Les Suites Hotel assembly venues. Business Events Toronto, report that cer in Toronto last year with more than tional Airport proved to be a perfect fit offers planners 27 tech-centric meeting Ottawa, Lord Elgin Hotel and the The JW Marriott Edmonton ICE 26 citywide conventions were held 7,000 delegates from around the world. for the large IASLC group. rooms, a Grand Ballroom and another Westin Ottawa. In addition, the four- District opened earlier this year, one of last year, a new record for the num- “The venue requirements for the “Canada’s principal airport offers ballroom with windows overlooking day conference will feature network- only three JW Marriott branded hotels ber of citywide conventions held in conference were quite extensive with travel routes to every continent and a the Rideau Canal and Canada’s Parlia- ing events at various event spaces and in Canada. It will be the centerpiece a single year. 90 minute flight for ment building. Fairmont Château Lau- attractions throughout the city.” of the $3 billion ICE District project, The record number over half the U.S. rier, opened in 1912 and across the street Ruff-Lyon also liked that the airport Edmonton’s newest downtown neigh- of citywide events speaks “The vast array of restaurants and Canadian popu- from the Shaw Centre, has expanded its is an easy 15- to 20-minute taxi ride borhood. The ICE District is a 25-acre to Toronto’s place as and event venues available lation,” Posh says. meeting space overlooking the canal. from downtown. “The airport’s location development combining residential the hub for innovation, in the city surely contributed “The UP Express The Ottawa Marriott Hotel also pro- makes travel to the city easy, an advan- condos, a public plaza, sports and technology, finance and to enhance our delegates train connects the vides over two-dozen meeting rooms, tage that makes any event even more entertainment venues, 300,000 sf of business within Canada. experience in their free time.” airport with the plenty of meeting and event space and attractive to a larger pool of potential retail space and 1.3 million sf of office The team at Business city center in just four concierge levels. attendees,” Ruff-Lyon says. space, all within walking distance to the Events Toronto taps into Mathias Posch 25 minutes, with The Ottawa Conference and Event The city has many off-site ven- Edmonton Convention Centre. Toronto’s strength in President and Chairman at International trains departing Centre, 15 minutes from downtown, ues that welcome association groups, “The 54-story JW Marriott is help- these key economic sec- Conference Services / President at IAPCO every 15 minutes.” contains convention space, 37 meeting including several large national muse- ing to boost Edmonton’s image and tors and uses the vibrancy Toronto was an rooms, extensive F&B services and com- ums that can host private receptions, attract international investors as part of of Toronto to attract these extremely good des- plimentary underground parking. The dinners and conferences, including the the massive ICE District development,” major events to the region. There were over 13 concurrent session rooms, tination choice last year for the IASLC’s facility is connected to the 397-room Canadian Museum of History, the Can- says Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson. The also numerous international confer- large plenaries, a 130,000-sf exhibit conference and resulted in the highest Courtyard Ottawa East and the 179- ada Agriculture and Food Museum, the hotel’s guest rooms and meeting spaces, ences and meetings. space, and over 30 smaller rooms for attendance in the history of the event. room Hampton Inn by Hilton Ottawa. Science and Technology Museum, the including the Wayne Gretzky Ballroom, The Metro Toronto Convention side meetings and offices,” says Math- Following the success of citywide “Our members chose Ottawa for our Canada Aviation and Space Museum occupy the first 22 floors of the tower. Centre features 442,000 sf of exhibit ias Posh, president and chairman of conferences last year, the momentum 2020 RIMS Canada Conference because and the National Gallery of Canada. Across the street is Rogers Place, a mul- space, 77 meeting rooms, multipurpose International Conference Services and continues this year. A Jehovah’s Wit- Canada’s capital city offers something tiuse sports and entertainment arena ballrooms, and a theater equipped for president of IAPCO and the core PCO nesses International Convention took for all of our 2,000 expected confer- EDMONTON with a seating capacity of 18,500 as a performing arts. As part of a recent for the Toronto conference. “There- place recently at the Enercare Centre, ence attendees,” says Stuart Ruff-Lyon, The downtown Edmonton Conven- hockey venue and 20,734 for concerts. multimillion-dollar expansion project, fore, when selecting a destination for with approximately 45,000 delegates. CMP, DES, vice president of events and tion Centre offers more than 150,000 sf The JW Marriott, along with the Stan- there are additional meeting spaces on the annual conference, appropriate That convention joins other meetings and exhibitions at New York-based RIMS, of space, and 2,900 hotel rooms within tec Tower next door, are key parts of the the South Building’s 600 Level. convention facilities are a key deciding events secured for 2019, including MPI’s the Risk Management Society. “The walking distance. The facility received ICE District’s first phase, now three- The new Hotel X Toronto, a unique factor. In Toronto, the Metro Toronto World Education Congress (WEC), the city has great dining, accommodations, a Venue Excellence award from the quarters completed. 30-story lakefront urban resort that Convention Centre was able to accom- signature event for meeting profession- is within walking distance to cultural International Association of Venue The Westin Edmonton is also opened last year, offers planners a modate all of our needs. A plus point als that attracted 2,000+ attendees to the venues and, important for us, is home Managers (IAVM) that recognized the downtown, directly connected to the cutting-edge mix of hospitality, sports was also its location, being right in the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. to a very vibrant and engaged risk man- Convention Centre as one of North Convention Centre. Fairmont Hotel

38 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 39 SPOTLIGHT ON QUÉBEC CITY Full of European charm and modern-day flair, Québec City is one of Canada’s leading meeting destination. With the Québec City Convention Centre located in the heart downtown, minutes away from hotels, attractions and restaurants, this 400-year old city offers a perfect backdrop for your meetings and events, with a side of joie de vivre!

Because you’re important to us, our team will help you make your mark in Québec City by wowing your attendees with a memorable meeting experience. Quartier Petit Champlain | Photo: Jeff Frenette We will work hand in hand with your team to ensure your event is successful—and makes a little history WHY QUÉBEC CITY? of its own. European charms Enjoyable city to walk A stone’s throw away Top 5 in the world from most major U.S. Cities - TedCity2.0

Best gastronomic city 1st destination in Canada Top 10 in the world 6th in North America - Condé Nast Traveler - Travel + Leisure World Best Awards

More than 350 direct Culture city of the year ﬂights weekly - Leading Culture Destinations U.S. customs preclearance Awards: Traveller’s Awards 2016 facility (2019) Canada’s #2 sport destination More than - Global Sports Impact Index 17,250 rooms (GSI Canada, 2019) #MeetQuébecCity Contact Carissa Koral*, our U.S. based sales rep, and ask her about our exclusive incentive program for U.S. Québec, accessible via major U.S. cities meeting planners. Photo: Québec City Business Destination 508 630-6607 [email protected] *Don’t worry, she has our contagious joie de vivre.

QuebecBusinessDestination.com The Calgary Stampede, which includes of the people,” Lightfoot says. “The food the popular annual rodeo, is a world-class, at the Convention Centre was also very year-round gathering place in the heart of good, and the conference was a great the city. It’s also a not-for-profit community success. One small note, the confer- organization that celebrates western heritage. ence banquet normally has about 350- 400 attendees, and in Calgary we held the banquet at the Calgary Stampede’s ‘Big Four Roadhouse’ venue, where we ence of about 2,200 participants, as ‘white hatted’ the attendees by giving well as the flexibility of the hosting out about 750 traditional cowboy hats organizations, the ability of the hosting to the banquet attendees, a record atten- group to accommodate special needs, dance for our conference banquet.” costs and the desirability of the city,” Calgary is listed high on The New says Jay Lightfoot, executive officer of York Times Best Places to Visit in the Conference Management Services Inc. 2019 list, and meeting planners will be “Calgary scored very high in each of adding the city’s new Central Library, a these categories, and our expectations spectacularly designed building to their were exceeded.” off-site venue list. It is situated next to Lightfoot liked the TELUS Conven- Studio Bell, home to the National Music tion Centre because of the proximity Centre museum and performance space. to several hotels. “We ended up using Macdonald, a city landmark since 1915, gary Downtown, Hotel Arts, and The the Marriott Downtown, the Hilton VANCOUVER International Airport (YVR) adding The Vancouver Convention Centre is the overlooks the North Saskatchewan Westin Calgary. Garden Inn Downtown, the Fairmont Last year Vancouver experienced more than 20 new routes. city’s premier exhibition and conventions River Valley, offers diverse meeting The Calgary Stampede is a world- Palliser, Best Western Calgary Cen- one of the busiest MICE events year “Our conference held earlier this facility. Its harbor-front location offers space, an outdoor terrace and is a four- class, year-round gathering place in tre City, as well as the Hotel Arts, a in its history, with 32 large citywide year used more than 10 hotels in Van- stunning views of the city. minute walk to the Convention Centre. the heart of the city. As a not-for-profit 10-minute walk from the Convention meetings on the books, and dozens of couver,” says Leslie Zeck, CMP, CMM, The Edmonton EXPO Centre offers community organization that celebrates Centre,” Lightfoot says. smaller conferences and events. The HMCC, director of meetings for the more than 522,000 sf, the largest meet- western heritage, the venue’s meetings “We used the Convention Centre for Vancouver Convention Centre (VCC) International & American Associa- ing venue west of Toronto. The build- and conventions team has more than most of our events, as well as the Cal- is the city’s premier exhibition and tions for Dental Research. “We have Vancouver allows everyone to breathe ing integrates high-tech features with 100 event staff, including caterers and gary Stampede for our banquet night,” conventions facility. With its harbor- been well-supported by the CVB and easier. Using the city as a destination is flexible, indoor space for trade and A/V professionals, who work with plan- Lightfoot says. “Our experience with front location and stunning views, hotel partners in our advance planning, the formula for success.” consumer shows, conferences Canada in general, and the VCC offers a beautiful setting, including assistance in setting up our Zeck chose the Fairmont Water- and special events. It provides “Canadian hosts were Calgary specifically, and the addition of the West Build- site visits, marketing support, informa- front as the convention headquarters four exhibit halls, a grand ball- easy to work with, as was fantastic. Cana- ing in 2009, with its 6-acre Living tion about customs and border control, hotel, along with other properties for room and a conference and dian hosts were easy to Green Roof, enabled the VCC to reach and off-site venue options. We view this attendee accommodations. catering service. were all the local and work with, as were all 466,500 sf of meeting, exhibition and collaboration by the local city suppliers The newest accommodations and provincial agencies we the local and provincial ballroom space. Along with the VCC’s and venues as a true partnership while meeting venues in Vancouver can be CALGARY worked with.” agencies we worked East Building, located in Canada Place, we worked in concert to organize an found at Parq Vancouver, a mixed-use Calgary offers more than with. All the folks we which it shares with a cruise ship ter- international convention for more than downtown “resort destination” project 13,000 hotel rooms, providing Jay Lightfoot dealt with in Calgary minal and the Pan Pacific built to meet LEED gold Executive Officer, Conference planners with a wide choice were flexible and will- Vancouver hotel, the VCC standards. Located next Management Services Inc. “I cannot think of any of accommodations, and sev- ing to help us.” is the world’s first double to BC Place sports arena, eral MICE properties in the Because of various LEED Platinum certified other convention Parq’s three towers also downtown core, conveniently reasons, they had to convention center. destination that checks contain the JW Marriott located near the Calgary TELUS Con- ners. Some of the event spaces on the move the conference from an overseas Vancouver has a all of the boxes like Parq Vancouver and the vention Centre (CTCC). Stampede grounds include the Nutrien location just six months before the number of established Vancouver does.” DOUGLAS, Autograph Col- The CTCC connects directly to Western Event Centre, a 150,000-sf scheduled dates, “ … unheard of with hotels that association Leslie Zeck, CMP, CMM, HMCC lection hotel. Both hotels three hotels totaling more than 1,000 agriculture showcase and competition a conference this size,” Lightfoot says. and convention groups Director of Meetings provide guests with con- rooms by using the city’s “Calgary +15” venue; the Big Four Roadhouse, named “We were somewhat concerned that enjoy, including the Hyatt International & American Associations venient access to JW Mar- — a series of enclosed and connected for the four businessmen who founded people would not be willing to travel Regency Vancouver, Pan for Dental Research riott Parq Vancouver’s wide walkways 15 feet above the ground. It the Stampede; the BMO Centre, the size to Calgary because it does not have a Pacific, Fairmont Water- range of entertainment is the world’s most extensive pedestrian of six football fields; and the historic well-established reputation as a con- front, Four Seasons Hotel amenities, including down- skywalk network, includes 59 bridges Stampede Corral. ference destination. It turned out that Vancouver, Fairmont Pacific Rim, 6,000 delegates who attended from town’s only casino, eight restaurants and links dozens of buildings in down- Last year, the IEEE International many people had never been to Calgary, Rosewood Hotel Georgia and the across the globe. and lounges, a 30,000-sf, tree-filled town Calgary, including the CTCC. Conference on Acoustics, Speech and although most had heard of it. Thus, Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver. The Regarding Vancouver’s many ame- elevated park located six floors above Three downtown hotels are con- Signal Processing gathered in Cal- many people were curious and wanted residual effects of the 2010 Winter nities and the ease of communicating street level, a Spa by JW and a mod- nected to the CTCC via this unique gary, the third time this organization to attend to see the city, and our actual Olympics, along with the city’s boom- with her local contacts, Zeck contin- ern fitness center. JW Marriott Parq above-ground walkway: Hyatt Regency met in Canada. Previous Canadian attendance exceeded our expectations.” ing cruise ship industry and excep- ues, “I cannot think of any other con- Vancouver also includes an additional Calgary, Calgary Marriott Downtown conferences were held in Vancouver Once there, the attendees at the Cal- tional cuisine, as well as its “green” vention destination that checks all of 60,000 sf of meeting and event space, Hotel and the Fairmont Palliser. Other and Montréal.“We chose Calgary for gary conference had a great time. “They reputation, has resulted in Vancouver the boxes like Vancouver does. After 13 boardrooms and the 15,000-sf Parq hotels that can accommodate groups several reasons. The combination of really got into the culture of the city and hosting a record of more than 10 mil- planning meetings all across the globe, Grand Ballroom, the largest hotel ball- in the city include Delta Hotels Cal- suitable facilities for a large confer- appreciated the warmth and hospitality lion visitors annually, with Vancouver I can say that organizing a meeting in room in Vancouver. | AC&F |

42 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 43 distinctive achievement AWARD CELEBRATING THE 2019 DISTINCTIVE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD WINNERS 2019 BEST OF THE BEST CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAUS CONVENTION CENTERS Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau Cobo Center Atlanta, GA Detroit, Michigan Choose Chicago Las Vegas Convention Center he deserving winners of the Chicago, IL Las Vegas, NV 2019 Distinctive Achievement Destination Cleveland Miami Beach Convention Center Cleveland, OH Miami Beach, FL Awards presented by Destination DC Music City Center Association Conventions & Washington, DC Nashville, TN TFacilities magazine have met or exceeded Discover Puerto Rico New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center the high standards that association meeting San Juan, Puerto Rico New Orleans, LA Experience Columbus Orange County Convention Center planners demand today. Many of the more Columbus, OH Orlando, FL than 20,500 meeting professionals who Explore St. Louis Walter E. Washington Convention Center read Association Conventions & Facilities St. Louis, MO Washington, DC Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau cast their ballot for the hotels, resorts Houston, TX and convention and visitors bureaus Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau HOTELS AND RESORTS ARIA Resort & Casino that successfully accommodated their The Broadmoor Miami, FL association meetings during the past year. Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority ARIA Resort & Casino Las Vegas, NV Las Vegas, NV Long Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau The Broadmoor THE DISTINCTIVE ACHIEVEMENT Long Beach, CA Colorado Springs, CO Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, AWARD WINNERS WERE JUDGED Los Angeles, CA Curio Collection by Hilton ON THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA: Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. Hollywood, FL Nashville, TN Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center CONVENTION & New Orleans & Company National Harbor, MD New Orleans, LA Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center VISITORS BUREAUS NYC & Company Nashville, TN New York, NY l Superior Service and Support Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau Kissimmee, FL l Top-Notch Assistance with Promotion, Philadelphia, PA Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center Accommodations and Site Inspections San Diego Tourism Authority Grapevine, TX San Diego, CA Hilton Anatole l High Level of Assistance to Identify San Francisco Travel Association Dallas, TX and Liaise with Suppliers, Vendors, San Francisco, CA Hilton Chicago Chicago, IL Facilities, Venues and Local Government Travel Portland Omni Dallas Hotel Omni Nashville Hotel Portland, OR Hyatt Regency Chicago Chicago, IL l Outstanding Communication Visit Anaheim Anaheim, CA New York Hilton Midtown and First-Rate Website Visit Austin New York, NY Austin, TX New York Marriott Marquis HOTELS AND RESORTS VISIT DENVER New York, NY Denver, CO Omni Dallas Hotel l Superior Service Standards Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau Dallas, TX Detroit, MI Omni Nashville Hotel l Excellent Accommodations Visit Fort Worth Nashville, TN and Meeting Facilities Fort Worth, TX Orlando World Center Marriott Visit Indy Orlando, FL l Reasonable Room Rates and Labor Costs Indianapolis, IN Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando, FL l Advanced Technological Capabilities Visit Irving Texas Irving, TX Sheraton Grand Chicago and First-Rate Website Visit Orlando Chicago, IL Orlando, FL l Environmentally Friendly Policies Sheraton New Orleans Hotel Visit Seattle New Orleans, LA l Paramount Safety and Security Seattle, WA South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa Visit Tucson Las Vegas, NV Tucson, AZ Rosen Shingle Creek You will find profiles of several of the best of Wynn Las Vegas Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort the best on the following pages. | AC&F | Lake Buena Vista, FL Wynn Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV

44 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com themeetingmagazines.com ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES SEPTEMBER 2019 45 distinctive achievement AWARD CELEBRATING THE 2019 BEST OF THE BEST EXPERIENCE THE NEW ORANGE. BOOK YOUR SPACE TODAY.

ORANGE Building for THE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER FUTURE COMING 2023 he Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) — the space, sophisticated amenities and world-class, on-site business second-largest convention facility in North America and service providers. — is an international destination. But its mission is The OCCC is consistently rated top-tier, with incredible spac- much more local: Infuse the Central Florida economy es, including the multipurpose Tangerine Ballroom, the Valencia Twith business opportunities. The OCCC provides approximately $3 Ballroom, network space in the Destination Lounge, the Sunburst Multipurpose Venue billion in local economic impact annually, thanks to the 1.4 million signature meeting room with an outdoor terrace and the Honeybell guests who attend its yearly and Hamlin board rooms. average of 200 meetings, con- Since 1983, the OCCC has undergone five expansions and count- Facts & Features ferences, banquets, conven- less Capital Improvement Projects. The fruits of that labor can be Connected Total Guest tions and trade shows. seen throughout the facility’s campus. Today, the OCCC is ushering Rooms: 5,192 Committed to its core mis- in a new era of growth and expansion with the approval to begin Convention Center FYI: World-class convention sion of economic develop- contract negotiations on the architectural and engineering design and trade-show space ment, the OCCC celebrated a services for a $605 million expansion, the Convention Way Grand combined with its culture of phenomenal second quarter Concourse and the Multipurpose Venue. The expansion will bring service, hospitality, family in 2019. From April to July, the total exhibit space at the OCCC to 2.3 million sf. friendly entertainment and venue welcomed more than The Multipurpose Venue brings an additional 200,000 sf of famous theme parks nearby 482,600 guests and 39 events. contiguous exhibit space in the South Building. Overall, the South make the OCCC ideal for The world-class OCCC pro- Building will have 675,141 sf of exhibit space and a grand total of Convention Way Grand Concourse your next trade show. vides a multitude of event op- 1.15 million sf of exhibit space. The Multipurpose Venue will also tions in two beautiful buildings, incorporate connectivity between the North and South concourses. the West and the North-South The Convention Way Grand Concourse expansion includes Building. After more than 35 years, The Center of Hospitality contin- an additional 60,000 sf of meeting space and an 80,000-sf ball- ues to showcase the leadership and exemplary service that has made room along with a new entry to the North-South Building along the destination one of the most popular in the world, not only for Convention Way. BUILDING FOR TOMORROW. SERVING YOU TODAY. tourism, but for conventions and trade shows. These projects will vastly improve the OCCC’s North-South As part of a $605 million Capital Improvement Plan, the Orange County Convention Center Exhibitors, attendees and meeting professionals alike acclaim Building, create greater flexibility in booking events, and will keep the attention to detail provided by the OCCC and variety of facili- the OCCC at the forefront of the convention industry. The expected will welcome 200,000 square feet of new, flexible and column-free multipurpose venue. This expansion will also include our Convention Way Grand Concourse, an enclosed connection ties and services, including over 7 million sf of combined meeting completion of both projects is late 2023. | AC&F | between the North and South concourses, with additional meeting and ballroom space, as well as a new grand entry to the North-South building. 9800 International Drive, Orlando, Florida, 32819 Contact: Rodney Gutierrez, Director of Sales | Tel: (800) 345-9845 | Fax: (407) 685-9876 [email protected] | 800.345.9845 | www.occc.net/improvements [email protected] | www.occc.net

46 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com distinctive achievement AWARD CELEBRATING THE 2019 BEST OF THE BEST WORLD

MIAMI BEACH CONVENTION CENTER CLASS rom perfect weather, pristine beaches and top-rated South Beach, where the eclectic lifestyles and colorful art deco attractions to world-class hotels, dining and a thriving architecture come to life. Along with the stunning beauty of its arts and culture scene, Miami has everything you need beaches and colorful buildings, South Beach also offers a diverse to host the meeting or convention of your dreams. mix of world-class boutiques, galleries and stores. FFew places in the world deliver such a thriving mix of international A vibrant and dynamic global hub, Miami continues to reinvent sophistication, natural tropical itself with incredible hotels, meeting spaces and enhanced infra- beauty and authentic cultural structure. Among the creative venue options is the reimagined Facts & Features diversity as Miami. Miami Beach Convention Center, featuring nearly 500,000 sf of Guest Rooms: 55,394 Miami is a place where versatile exhibition space and more than 180,000 sf of meeting Hotels/Resorts: 426 beauty and richness await space, including a 60,000-sf grand ballroom, a 20,000-sf junior Meeting Space: 1.2 to be found across the city, ballroom, and 84 breakout rooms. The space also features a ter- million sf particularly among the many race where attendees can step out, mingle, and soak up the city’s Convention Center FYI: hidden gems it offers. Miami’s signature sunshine and ocean breeze. The Miami Beach diverse neighborhoods are The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau is excited Convention Center will a great place to start, where to announce that the Miami Beach Convention Center will soon soon be home to a CITY connecting 800-room visitors are encouraged to be home to a connecting 800-room headquarter hotel, making headquarter hotel. explore the rich cultural roots Miami the ultimate convenient meeting destination. that make Miami an incredible Miami is also easy to get to, with Miami International Airport melting pot. Discover the Latin (MIA) offering more than 400 flights from around the globe dai- The Miami Beach Convention flavors of Little Havana or the Caribbean heritage of Little Haiti. ly and serving more airlines than any other airport in the U.S. Center is a dynamic, vibrant FIRST CLASS CENTER Stroll through the street art district of Wynwood or the charming If you are already in Florida, try the Brightline, a stylish express business destination oﬀering bohemian neighborhood of Coconut Grove. If you seek a more train service that provides intercity travel connecting Miami, Fort 500,000 square feet of ﬂexible cosmopolitan edge, the bustling epicenter of Downtown Miami, Lauderdale and West Palm Beach, with service between Miami exhibit space, 84 breakout with its gleaming skyscrapers, sweeping waterfront bay views, and Orlando coming soon. rooms, and a 60,000 square and endless shopping and dining possibilities, is the perfect These are just a few of the memorable and magical high- foot ballroom. Coming soon, neighborhood for you. lights awaiting any meeting planner considering Miami. Visit this stunning venue will be enhanced with an 800-room And no journey to Miami is complete without exploring iconic MiamiMeetings.com to learn more. | AC&F | headquarter hotel, making Miami Beach the ultimate 701 Brickell Avenue, Suite 2700, Miami, FL 33131 meetings destination. Contact: Barry Moskowitz, Vice President, Sales and Industry Relations | Tel: 305-539-3042 | Fax: 305-530-4276 [email protected] | www.MiamiMeetings.com 800-933-8448 ext. 3071 [email protected] MiamiMeetings.com 48 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com

MBCC Print Ad_V1_8.5x10.875.indd 1 8/27/19 4:19 PM FILE NAME MBCC PRINT AD_V1_8.5X10.875 MODIFIED AUGUST 27, 2019 4:19 PM studio GRAPHIC ARTIST RAFA R CREATED 05/08/19 CLIENT GMCVB BLEED 8.375 X 11.125” PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR COPYWRITER MARKET TRIM 8.125 X 10.875” JOB# LIVE .5” SAFETY PROJECT MNGR. PROOFREADER ACCOUNT EXEC. PUB DPI & SCALE 300 DPI CHARIS T. CHARLOTTE NOTES Portofino Bay Hotel TM & © 2019 UCF Hotel Venture. All rights reserved. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2019 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. 19-37817

CAREERTRACK

Sheraton Phoenix Downtown appointed Jon Erick- son as director of sales and marketing. Erickson brings to his new role nearly eight years of experience in hotel operations. Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate named Jen Isham senior sales manager. Previously, she was the director of strategic accounts at Experient Inc. Destination South Meetings + Events promoted Taylor Levy to associate director of sales. While Levy ERICKSON ISHAM has been with the team for just over a year, she quickly became an asset to cultivate and grow relationships throughout Atlanta. Connecticut Convention & Sports Bureau named Taia Lionetti manager of convention services and e-marketing. Lionetti will work with meeting planners and event managers who are considering or have booked conventions or conferences in the northern part of Connecticut. Visit San Jose, the official destination marketing organization for the City of San Jose, along with the Team San Jose Board of Directors, named Matthew LEVY LIONETTI Martinucci vice president of sales and destination services. Martinucci will lead the sales department at Visit San Jose. Hilton Hotels San Francisco Union Square appointed Cindy Ramesh complex director of sales and marketing. For the past 10 years, she has been at Hilton San Francisco Union Square as the director of sales, and since 2015 also has been responsible for the complex, which includes the addition of the Parc 55 San Francisco – a Hilton Hotel. The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs named Cur- MARTINUCCI RAMESH tis Robison to fill a new role at the resort: director of national sales – trade shows and exhibits. The position was created due to the resort’s new 125,000+ sf of exhibition space and associated breakout rooms, which is slated to debut in spring of 2020. NYC & Company welcomed Katrina Stewart as regional director, national accounts, Midwest, for convention development. Stewart will be responsible for selling New York City as a premier meetings and conventions destination in the Midwest region for groups requiring 151 rooms and above on peak. ROBISON STEWART Visit Winston-Salem named Romona Williams as new national sales manager. Williams is responsible for booking faith-based, multicultural and association meetings and conventions. She brings 15 years of hospitality industry experience to her new role. Nemacolin Woodlands Resort, in southwestern Pennsylvania, appointed Carrie Yauch new director of sales. In her new role, Yauch will lead revenue-driving efforts utilizing her 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry. | AC&F |

WILLIAMS YAUCH

Portofino Bay Hotel TM & © 2019 UCF Hotel Venture. All rights reserved. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2019 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. 19-37817 50 SEPTEMBER 2019 ASSOCIATION CONVENTIONS & FACILITIES themeetingmagazines.com COMING MARCH 2020 Create your world in ours.

We are expanding our world with 300,000 square feet of seamlessly integrated meeting and conference space that is bathed in natural light and overlooking serene views. Envision an 84,000-square-foot column-free ballroom and 40,000 square feet of outdoor event space. All this, plus our renowned attention to detail, service and style.

(888) 320-7117 / WYNNMEETINGS.COM