A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION OCTOBER 2018 VOL. 25 NO. 5 $10.00

The Great Divide Create Programs With Multigenerational Appeal Page 18 All-Season Meeting & Incentive Destinations Exclusive Experiences Melissa Van Dyke, President, The Incentive Make Great Rewards Research Foundation Page 12 CSR-Enhanced Teambuilding Delivering a ‘Return on Emotion’ Page 22 CLICK HERE TO 2018 World DOWNLOAD/VIEW Class Awards TABLET VERSION The Best of the Best CVBs, Hotels, Resorts and Conference Centers Page 26 ISSN 1095-9726...... USPS 012-991

A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION

OCTOBER 2018 Vol. 25 No. 5 Credit: Will Will Credit: Steacy Insurance and financial planners are drawn to New York City, “The FEATURES Financial Capital of the World,” and its year-round perks. PAGE 12 All-Season Meeting & Incentive 12 Destinations Exclusive Experiences Make Great Rewards By Cynthia Dial The Great Divide 18 Create Programs With Multigenerational Appeal For Attendees to Connect The Magic Carpet, By Christine Loomis soaring high over the sea CSR-Enhanced Teambuilding Multigenerational programs encourage attendees to interact and 22 Delivering a ‘Return on Emotion’ create educational experiences. PAGE 18 Whether you convene in Europe or the Caribbean, the 29 distinctive By Patrick Simms Planning your events restaurants, cafés, bars, and lounges aboard our revolutionary new ® ® 2018 World Class Award Winners aboard Celebrity Edge Celebrity Edge will transform any meeting, incentive, charter, or 26 The Best of the Best CVBs, Hotels, event into a delicious culinary journey. Beyond the ship's world-class Resorts and Conference Centers means you have design, accommodations, entertainment, and meeting facilities, your guests will experience globally inspired cuisine, crafted great taste. by our Michelin-starred chef—and it's all included. DESTINATIONS Visit celebritycorporatekit.com | Call 1-800-771-3873 For the Fun of It 42 Las Vegas and Reno: Memorable Credit: Berkshire HorseWorks Berkshire Credit: Meetings, Natural Wonders Planners find that charitable teambuilding programs create an By Steve Winston emotional bond and boost the morale of employees. PAGE 22

All images of Celebrity Edge® are artistic renderings based on current development concepts, which are subject to change without notice. ©2018 Celebrity Cruises. Ships’ registry: Malta and Ecuador. DEPARTMENTS Publisher’s New Strategies 4 10 How to Innovate and Message Succeed in Business By Scott Steinberg 6 News & Notes 50 Corporate Snapshots Resort Reno Hotel Peppermill Credit: 9 Ladder Las Vegas is more than just a magnificent meetings destination — attendees can explore many other attractions day or night. PAGE 42 Eden, the grandest space Globally inspired dining, crafted by we’ve ever designed our Michelin-starred chef INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 3

11_01_MICE_PRC_8.125x10.875_CIT_EDGE Culinary.indd 1 9/19/18 11:55 AM Publisher’s Message A COASTAL COMMUNICATIONS CORPORATION PUBLICATION

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF More Business Meetings and Harvey Grotsky [email protected]

Learning Than Ever CREATIVE DIRECTOR DISCOVER The eighth IMEX America in Las Vegas was a record-breaking event with more Mitch D. Miller [email protected] L.A.’S COASTAL POINT OF VIEW than 13,000 participants, among them 6,000-plus attendees and more than 3,000 hosted buyers. The show further extended the range of features by offering a re- MANAGING EDITOR FOR YOUR markably large and diverse range of experiences meeting the growing demand Bonnie Schultz [email protected] NEXT for interactive live experiential activities that are redefining the scope of the in- dustry itself. Overall, there was great energy and EDITORIAL COORDINATOR MEETING Debbie Ryan enthusiasm from attendees. If you missed this [email protected] year’s event, plan now to be there in Las Vegas CONTRIBUTING EDITORS September 10-12, 2019. Sophia Bennett If weather concerns are a factor when planning Ron Bernthal John Buchanan your events, take a look at “All-Season Meeting & Sara Churchville Incentive Destinations” on Page 12. From sunny Cynthia Dial Maura Keller beach resorts including all-inclusive destinations Christine Loomis to urban favorites, the choice of destinations is Derek Reveron Mark Rowh widespread with everything possible to make a Patrick Simms successful event. David Swanson

Also in this issue, “The Great Divide” on Page PRESIDENT & CEO 18 covers creating programs with multigenera- Harvey Grotsky tional appeal for attendees to connect. According VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS to Melissa Van Dyke, president, The Incentive Research Foundation on our cover, David Middlebrook “Including appropriate wellness, giveback and status components can be well- [email protected] received by all generations.” In addition, she advises planners to “create places and ADVERTISING SALES OFFICES spaces for attendees of various generations to purposefully connect.” She also states, 2700 N. Military Trail, Suite 120 Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 “For that reason, it’s important that planners include experiences wherein attendees 561-989-0600 Fax: 561-989-9509 can seek best practices, advice and problem-solving from their peers, while at the same [email protected] time, designing space for those same attendees to mentor and learn up and down.” MIDWEST STATES The evolution of corporate teambuilding over recent decades has made planning Bob Mitchell 630-541-3388 • Mobile: 630-235-0126 these activities easier. See “CSR-Enhanced Teambuilding” on Page 22. According to [email protected] Katrina Kent, director, The Event Group, TD Ameritrade, “Combining teambuilding and Insurance & Financial Meetings Management is published bi-month- community service ... really helps meeting participants connect to a greater purpose ly by Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 N. Military Trail, Ste. 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394; 561-989-0600. Single copies $10.00 and each other.” Impact 4 Good, a company that offers community service-oriented U.S.A.; back copies $12. Yearly subscription price is $65.00 in the U.S.A.; $135.00 in Canada. Distributed without charge to qualified teambuilding programs for corporations, continues to see an uptick in business. Alan personnel. Periodicals Postage Paid at Boca Raton, FL, and additional Ranzer, managing partner and co-founder, Impact 4 Good, says, “When you do some- mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Insur- ance & Financial Meetings Management, 2700 N. Military Trail, Ste. thing to give back to the community under your company’s name, you feel good 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394. Nothing contained in this publica- tion shall constitute an endorsement by Coastal Communications about who you work for.” Corporation (Insurance & Financial Meetings Management), and the publication disclaims any liability with respect to the use of reliance Contemporary Hotels. Yacht Receptions. Poolside Networking. Waterfront Views. Don’t miss the 2018 “World Class Award Winners” beginning on Page 26. The on any such information. The information contained in this publica- tion is no way to be construed as a recommendation by I&FMM of Make Marina del Rey your next Southern California meetings destination. Experience 100,000 square winners were determined by our subscribers with an open ballot. The winning any industry standard, or as a recommendation of any kind to be ad- opted by or binding upon any corporate/incentive travel planner or feet of total meeting space and an abundance of waterfront dining – just 4 miles north of LAX and destinations and facilities met specified criteria and are worthy of consideration for agent. Reproduction of any portion of this publication by any means is strictly forbidden. Editorial contributions must be accompanied by minutes from world-famous Venice Beach and Santa Monica. your next event. return postage and will be handled with reasonable care. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited photographs or manuscripts. Subscriber: Send subscription inqui- ries and address changes to: Circulation Dept., Insurance & Financial Marina del Rey is home to six hotels Meetings Management, 2700 N. Military Trail, Ste. 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394. Give old and new addresses including zip codes. En- Marriott | The Ritz-Carlton | Marina del Rey Hotel | Hilton Garden Inn | Jamaica Bay Inn | Foghorn Inn close address label from most recent issue and allow five weeks for change to become effective. Printed in U.S.A. © 2018 Contact us to learn how you can save up to $2,000 in incentives for your next meeting. Harvey Grotsky www.themeetingmagazines.com

visitmarinadelrey.com • 866.650.4567 • [email protected]

4 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT Industry News MGM Resorts International Receives Nine Awards Orlando Announces Exciting SITE, FICP and IRF Margaritaville Beach Resort Grand Cayman at Stars of the Industry Hospitality Awards Gala Growth at Convention Release Landmark Reopens After Extensive Renovation LAS VEGAS — MGM Resorts International was presented with nine Center, Meeting Hotels Study of the Incentive awards by the Nevada Hotel and Lodging Association (NHLA) during the ORLANDO – America’s most-visited 8th Annual Stars of the Industry Hospitality Awards Gala in Las Vegas. destination is growing its capacity for Travel Industry The event honors exceptional employees working within Nevada’s hospi- meetings, conventions and events Society for Incentive Travel Excel- tality industry. with new develop- lence (SITE), Incentive Research Foun- Chuck Bowling, president and COO of Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, was ments at the Orange dation (IRF) and Financial and Insur- named the Hotelier of the Year, the NHLA’s highest honor. The Hotelier of the County Convention ance Conference Professionals (FICP) Year is recognized by industry peers for his or her exemplary achievements, Center (OCCC) and have released the first joint study of contributions and leadership. surrounding con- the global incentive travel industry. In- MGM Resorts International was also recognized as the Sustainability vention hotels. centive Travel Industry Index Powered Leading Company of the Year. This award honors an industry property or The OCCC is mov- by SITE Index, IRF Outlook and FICP is business that has developed a culture toward integrating environmental ing forward with a a landmark for the industry, providing AGUEL management practices that improve everyday operations, while maintaining $605 million campus unprecedented, consolidated insights quality service and meeting guest expectations. www.mgmresorts.com improvement plan that will bring into the current state of incentive expansions and new meeting and travel and where it is headed. Anaheim Marriott Electrifies Meetings exhibit space in the North and South Conducted in association with J.D. concourses, further increasing the Power, the study is a wide-ranging GRAND CAYMAN, CAYMAN ISLANDS – After a multiyear extensive renovation, With New Charging Banquet Seating center’s 7 million square feet of analysis of business conditions, at- the new Margaritaville Beach Resort Grand Cayman will officially relaunch on ANAHEIM, CA — Anaheim Marriott is taking the meeting experience to the function space. titudes and expectations impacting November 1. The massive overhaul includes the property’s 285 guest rooms, next level for both meeting planners and attendees. The expansion includes the Con- the incentive travel and motivational the addition of more than 8,500 feet of meeting and event space, a new According to Phil Aldax, director of event management, “The hotel vention Way Grand Concourse, which events industry worldwide. With over fitness center and a completely reinvented culinary program. invested in new chairs for our meeting and event space which enable features additional meeting space 1,000 respondents from more than The guest rooms, all with a balcony or patio, feature signature brand attendees to charge their devices right and an 80,000-square-foot ballroom 80 countries, it is the largest survey touches to deliver fun and a true sense of arrival at what is intended to be at their seats during the function, rather with a grand entrance to the North- ever conducted of senior players in a laid-back escape rooted in relaxation. than having to race outside to find an South building along Convention Way. the incentive travel industry, doubling The 8,500-plus square feet of meeting space is a design juxtaposition outlet at breaks.” The 200,000-square-foot Multipur- responses from past individual efforts of formal meets fun. The highlight is the nearly 4,700-square-foot ballroom, Anaheim Marriott works diligently to pose Venue is a flexible, divisible, and netting new insights based on which is already a sought-after venue for special events. Complementing set itself apart from other properties column-free space with a combination combined questioning. Survey respon- this is the prefunction area (2,112 square feet), four breakout rooms and across the country with similar space of retractable and floor seating to dents were balanced between incen- an executive boardroom (377 square feet), all boasting 14-foot ceilings. by elevating the food and beverage accommodate between 18,000 and tive travel buyers and suppliers, with www.margaritavilleresortgrandcayman.com experience, creating flexible meeting 20,000 guests. buyers representing incentive agen- setups and layouts, as well as The center brings more than 200 cies and corporate users, while more innovative technological features conventions and events and hosts 1.4 than half of the sellers are DMCs. The Hosts Global Welcomes New DMC like these charging million attendees each year. majority are tenured industry profes- Members in Canada and Costa Rica seats. The hotel “As a leading meeting and conven- sionals with an average of 17.3 years Hosts Global has added two new alliance members, Downeast Destination features 169,662 tion destination, Orlando is known for of experience — approximately half are Management Company (DMC) servicing Canada’s Atlantic region and Premio square feet of continually investing in the region’s located in the U.S. DMC Costa Rica. Both companies have decades of experience as their region’s flexible function growth, and this next phase of the While the survey findings show that local expert in planning and executing meetings, conventions, space, spread Orange County Convention Center is incentive travel is on the rise, growth incentive programs and special events. across 23 event another testament to our commitment isn’t happening unchecked. For in- “Downeast and Premio DMCs are fantastic additions to our rooms with 44 to this industry,” says George Aguel, stance, costs to operate an incentive global consortium,” says Marty MacKay, DMCP, president of breakout rooms. president & CEO of Visit Orlando. “The travel program are going up. Hosts Global’s alliance of DMCs. “Both firms ... represent the The largest space is expansion at the center will create a “Over two-thirds of planners are shared principles of our Hosts Global community and operate the 25,410-square- wealth of new opportunities for groups taking steps to contain costs.... For- in destinations that are in high-demand from our clients.” foot Platinum of all sizes and will serve as a catalyst tunately, the nature of incentive travel Hosts Global members are selected based on stringent Ballroom, which for additional development throughout programs allows companies to adjust MACKAY criteria to ensure the global alliance is comprised of only can accommodate our convention district, including new them to reflect concerns with costs,” best-in-class DMCs. The addition of Premio DMC Costa Rica and Downeast up to 3,585 people. hotels, restaurants and entertainment says IRF President Melissa Van Dyke. DMC strengthens the consortiums’ presence in Central America and service www.anaheimmarriott.com options.” www.orlandomeeting.com www.ficpnet.com capabilities along Canada’s Atlantic region. www.hosts-global.com

6 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 7 Industry News SnapShots Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa Reveals Newly Westin Charlotte Renovated Ballrooms, Meeting Spaces Unveils New Modern Event Space CHARLOTTE, NC — The Westin Char- lotte has unveiled its newest social event space, Six One Five, an urban- chic venue adjacent to the hotel, ideal for every type of Charlotte event. With a unique feel, this new meet- ing space offers a large prefunction 1 area and a flexible function space with expansive views of Charlotte. “Six One Five allows the team to continue to innovate and personalize events to create lasting memories that are differ- ent from our ballrooms,” says Pamela Bower, director of sales and marketing. From within the space, guests are treated to views of the expanding Credit: Shelby Soblick Photography Shelby Credit: Southend from floor-to-ceiling windows. PALM BEACH, FL – Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, the intimate Forbes The terrace creates the perfect multi- Five-Star oceanfront retreat situated along Florida’s gold coast, revealed its use setting for outdoor events or ex- 2 newly redesigned ballrooms and meeting spaces, which encompass more than ecutive gatherings. www.marriott.com 30,000 square feet of indoor space on two levels in the resort’s north tower. The renovations feature contemporary designs by RTKL Associates and 3 modern furnishings that complement the hotel’s classic architecture. Hyatt Regency Taking center stage of the renovation are the three ballroom spaces — Sonoma Debuts Its The Grand Ballroom, Ocean Ballroom and Plaza Ballroom — which feature sophisticated furnishings and a neutral color palette. To complement the newly Event Space Redesign

redesigned spaces, advanced technology was installed, including a state-of- SONOMA, CA — Hyatt Regency (6) Communications ENroute Schaer (4-5), Julienne Credit: the-art sound system and LED lighting throughout. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Sonoma Wine Country debuts a rustic- Spa offers a range of event services and can accommodate groups from 10 chic sanctuary set on eight acres, to 700 in its variety of indoor and outdoor spaces. www.eaupalmbeach.com featuring 90 additional guest rooms and a complete redesign of 40,000 square feet of event spaces, the lobby Pacific World Notes Top Emerging Destinations and all other public areas. 4 5 6 SINGAPORE – Pacific World, a global destination and event management The lobby showcases timeless 1 The 2018 Financial and Insurance Conference Professionals (FICP) Fall Symposium was held October 3-5 at Cliff House Maine company, has identified several emerging destinations and destinations to look interior design with handcrafted details in Ogunquit, Maine. A noteworthy line-up of speakers and sessions focused on industry trends defined the event, while several out for as MICE options in the coming years. Each location combines the allure and rustic touches. As an extension of memorable networking events provided the opportunity for colleagues to connect. 2 During a celebration hosted by Associated of a new and exciting destination with the capacity to provide the lobby, the function spaces are also Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) and Global DMC Partners, hospitality professional Bryson Taylor (center, holding check) received guests with an exceptional, curated MICE experience. distinctive and inviting with bronze, iron recognition as The Above and Beyond Foundation’s Heart of Hospitality Award winner as well as a cash grant of $10,000. Mary Jo Valentine Blythe, founder and CEO of The Above and Beyond Foundation (second from right), says Taylor was selected for embodying “Over the past two years, interest in new destinations and and seeded glass. the true spirit of hospitality, consistently going above and beyond in his role, regardless of the situation at hand. 3 Barcelona unique experiences has increased significantly. This trend in Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Convention Bureau (BCB) and 13 of its partners — A+ Solutions, another konzept, In Destination Mangement, Kuoni Destination the leisure travel realm is also impacting the incentives and Country features extensive meeting Management, Pacific World, She Spanish Heritage, Fairmont Rey Juan Carlos I, Hilton Diagonal Mar, Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona, meetings sector,” says Selina Sinclair, global managing director and event spaces, including 15 indoor Melia Barcelona Sarria & Sky Hotels, CCIB - Centre de Convencions Internacional de Barcelona, Portaventura and Blai Limousines — came together for a Volunteer Day at Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, on October 14. The activity helped showcase BCB’s Corporate of Pacific World. meeting rooms totaling 18,000 square Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to U.S. incentive and corporate meeting planners. 4-5 Left: NYC & Company Board of Directors Emerging Destinations for 2019: Bhutan; Namibia; Greater feet and an additional 20,000 square Vice Chairman Charles Flateman (second from right) and Discover Puerto Rico CEO Brad Dean (center), surrounded by executive SINCLAIR Bay Area – South China; Bordeaux, France; Bodrum, Turkey. feet of outdoor space, accompanied team members, signed a first-ever official partnership to boost tourism between New York City and Puerto Rico at a press conference Destinations to Look Out For in 2019: Sumba, Indonesia; Phu Quoc, Vietnam; by an 80-foot-long water wall, ideal for on October 23. Right: Dean and Flateman flank the event’s host, Lin-Manuel Miranda (center).6 Javier Aranda, director of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board (center), meets with chefs Josue Jimenez (left) and Mauricio Leal (right) during a media tour to promote Apulia, Italy; Gangneung, South Korea. www.pacificworld.com special events. www.hyatt.com Puerto Vallarta’s new offerings in adventure, gastronomy, culture and more.

8 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 9 When we’re talking about innovation, we’re merely discussing New Strategies By Scott Steinberg more creative and resourceful approaches to problem-solving.

to comment on or vote for winning ideas, team up to Using just one of these solutions, the company has been participate on these solutions and share suggestions by able to seamlessly integrate social and second-screen ex- How to Innovate and Succeed in Business email. Moderators could also view reports, quickly gauge periences from hundreds of film and TV companies into trategic innovation ranks among the most frequently having to be a genius — it’s about being more engagement levels — and easily attach project leaders/ many of its services in less than a year. cited topics in business today, especially for organi- ingenious instead. contributors, assign deadlines and tasks and send remind- Szations operating in fast-changing and often hugely • Slight shifts in strategy and approach (evolutionary) ers to help fuel creativity. Users could also follow all the Case Study 4: Newell Rubbermaid disruptive business environments. It’s therefore no surprise can be every bit as powerful as game-changing latest comments, ideas and messages from contributors, When Newell Rubbermaid’s Contigo brand wanted that many executives are equally concerned about how breakthroughs (revolutionary). creating a heightened degree of interest in and empathy to find a way to differentiate its products in the hugely to drive innovation inside their own organizations, and • Innovation is simply a matter of perspective — and for any given project. crowded and contested market for portable containers crafting all manner of meetings, events and strategic re- process of constant reimaging and reinvention. After five weeks, 11 jury members weighed votes and and cups, it didn’t invest a fortune into dozens of abortive treats designed to help leaders both remain relevant and • Businesses of every size and background can submissions against four criteria — originality, applicability, product roll-outs, attempting to guess what working pro- stay ahead of changing times and trends. In the face of absolutely leverage core principles of innovation to feasibility and thoughtfulness of the idea — and winners fessionals on the go would want. It simply studied today’s today’s fast-moving, hugely volatile business world and succeed more frequently going forward. could potentially see their ideas turned into action. In the busiest travel sites, where commuters tended to congre- the ongoing disruptions it often brings, it goes without • As they remind us, simple tweaks in strategy and wake of these efforts, not only did the number of ideas gate. After discovering that passengers were constantly saying: Many organizations and individuals continue to approach can often produce powerful windfalls generated greatly exceed expectation, a significant por- wiping off their mugs’ mouthguards on napkins, sleeves struggle with the concept of innovation. Thankfully, it may — and help your organization succeed more tion of visitors to the site contributed suggestions, com- and handkerchiefs, it introduced a new line of travel mugs help with the process of reimaging and reinventing your frequently and stay better in tune with changing menting rates were through the roof and the VCW gener- with special covers designed to keep out dirt. business to be more cutting-edge going forward — and times and trends. ated a plethora of new initiatives for the industry. It also designing programs and events around these themes — uncovered important new concepts that the association Case Study 5: Mastercard to recall that, according to leading experts (and Merriam- could build on or encourage members to explore further, After deciding it needed a new idea for a mobile pay- Webster’s dictionary), innovation is far simpler than you Case Study 1: Association for and trends the VCW discovered that it needed to be aware ment app, Mastercard didn’t invest millions of dollars or may suspect. By definition, it’s simply the introduction Chemistry and Economics of, by undertaking the project. months of time and effort. It simply put the call out to of something new. Over 15 years old, Germany’s Association for Chemistry employees at Innovation Express, a global series of hack- Certainly, innovation often refers to the concept of and Economics (VCW) has more than 30,000 members. Its Case Study 2: Medtronic athon events where business people, designers and soft- game-changing, breakthrough discoveries and technolo- population is hugely diverse, spread across many sectors When medical device leader Medtronic wanted to ex- ware developers team up to create new business plans gies. But more importantly, as we discovered while re- and has myriad goals and interests. pand its already-successful business throughout Western and products in record time. Two days later, Qkr — which searching my new book Make Change Work for You: 10 Determined to foster communication among these Europe and beyond, it didn’t double-down on cutting- can let you order food from your seat at a stadium or pre- Ways to Future-Proof Yourself, Fearlessly Innovate, and members to help further the profession, the VCW desired edge devices. It reinvented its business model instead, order school lunches for children right from your pocket Succeed Despite Uncertainty, it can just as easily refer to to create a network that would allow participants to col- extending its offerings to include services and establish- without ever setting foot in a cafeteria — was born. new concepts, new marketing strategies or new ways of laborate with scientists and engineers in every field to be ing new business units that partnered to put owned-and- As you can see, innovation isn’t always about game- repositioning your business or brand to be more meaning- more successful and raise awareness for the organization. operated labs inside hospitals. changing breakthroughs or technology. It’s about finding ful or relevant to current and prospective members. As That’s because, in the modern age, it knew teamwork Medtronic increased its business and provided part- more effective ways to use the tools and resources that challenging as the concept of innovating often sounds, would be key to innovation, and accelerating the speed at ners with significant improvements in customer ser- are available. While it’s not always obvious to the casu- really, when we’re talking about innovation, we’re merely which it could adapt would be vital. Partnerships with uni- vice and cost-savings by doing so. Having earned their al observer, innovation is far easier than you think. All discussing more creative and resourceful approaches to versities, private industry players, public organizations and trust, it’s also built a sizable business around ancillary it takes to successfully outmaneuver the competition, or problem-solving. And, in truth, you may be surprised at allies in other fields such as economics would be crucial services such as supply chain management and perfor- overcome a problem, is simply a greater sense of perspec- just how simple the process of making your organization to its continuing success. Likewise, the VCW also wanted mance benchmarking. tive and an immense willingness to be more creative with more agile, more responsive and more competitive is when to find a way to drive ongoing innovation on a huge scale. how you apply the tools at-hand. I&FMM you come right down to it. In fact, all it often takes for us As a solution, it invented the idea of Social Chemistry Case Study 3: Orange Telecom to be more successful is just a greater sense of perspective — creating an open online portal for the crowdsourcing French telecom giant Orange wanted to double the Scott Steinberg is an award-winning professional speaker. He — and an immense willingness to make some seemingly of ideas, and pooling of resources, to allow members and size of its innovation initiatives but didn’t want to invest is among today’s best-known trends experts and futurists, a simple, but hugely powerful shifts in strategy and thinking. interested private and public enterprises to: 1. Suggest millions in R&D or hordes of high-priced working profes- bestselling expert on leadership and innovation and the author As the following examples help illustrate: new concepts 2. Discuss topics of interest and 3. Access sionals. Instead, it decided to outsource the entire process of “Make Change Work for You: 10 Ways to Future-Proof • Getting ahead in business today isn’t about having collaboration tools for making cross-company initiatives a and offered APIs — plug-and-play back-end software so- Yourself, Fearlessly Innovate, and Succeed Despite Uncertainty” more resources, it’s about being more resourceful. reality. Not only did the platform let participants submit lutions — to internal employees and external developers and “Millennial Marketing: Bridging the Generation Gap.” His • Succeeding in challenging environments isn’t about and share ideas for new projects — it also allowed them so they could create new uses for Orange’s technologies. website is www.AKeynoteSpeaker.com.

10 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 11 Where Can Groups Go on the Island of Hawaii? Almost Everywhere! Although two-thirds of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is currently closed to the public and early news reports indicated the entire island of Hawaii was disturbed by Kilauea’s active lava flow, in truth, the most recent incident of the volcano’s 35-year-old eruption affects only about 10 square miles of the 4,028-square-mile island. Here’s the scoop straight from the Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau: It’s business as usual with such everlasting enticements as east Hilo’s multicultural eating op- portunities and interactive science centers; the Hamakua Coast’s hidden rain forest, waterfalls, zip lining and horseback riding. Pushing the adventure envelope are such options as night dives or snorkeling to view manta rays and a helicopter tour over the lava fields of Kilauea, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea volcanoes. For a bit of science, there’s star gazing atop the dormant Mauna Kea (named the world’s tallest mountain when measured base to peak). Volcano Winery produces A trip to a special a unique character wine from grapes grown on vines at the 4,000-foot elevation destination is a huge of Kilauea volcano. And a tour of the Kona Coffee Living History Farm gives a peek motivator for hard- into the still-producing coffee estate. working employees. New to the scene are these one-of-a-kind tours. Volcano Bike Tours, which explore portions of the renowned “Red Road,” also include a hike to a black sand beach. KapohoKine Adventures offers the opportunity to follow the path of British explorer Captain James Cook by foot and zodiac boat. Hawaii Forest and Trail (which supports relief efforts in communities affected by recent Kilauea volcano activity) serves up a full-day Epic Island Journey tour including an off-road adventure in exploration of a 150-year-old working ranch and a hike through native forestlands, All-Season Meeting & complete with views of Kilauea volcano. Official word: The Island of Hawaii Visitors Bureau is monitoring the Kilauea Exclusive Experiences volcano activity and continues to spread the message that it is safe to visit the Make Great Rewards island of Hawaii and all of the other Hawaiian Islands. — CD

Incentive Destinations Bureau & Convention Visitors Hawaii Credit: By Cynthia Dial hether it’s a “day as a rock star” service markets. “Each island offers a “We encourage visitors and attend- Mary Neister, CMP, vice president MCI, that is different from where they live, attendees also return feeling rejuve- in a recording studio in Aus- uniquely different ‘feel,’ so coming to ees to embrace the Islands and engage Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau. people will remember forever.” nated and inspired to focus on personal Wtin (also known as the “Live Hawaii but visiting a different island in inspiring programs and rejuvenating Among these activities, Neister Her assessment of an incentive to and professional growth.” Music Capital of the World”), a cata- each trip gives attendees a different experiences that leave them feeling in- mentions authentic Hawaiian experi- the islands: “Hawaii offers it all — warm maran cruise off the island of Hawaii at experience every time.” vigorated and, ultimately, allow them ences for teambuilding — outrigger weather, eternal sun, beautiful beaches, California Dreamin’ sunset or a Broadway play performed One client example Grassi cites is to take a little bit of Hawaii’s ‘Aloha canoeing, throw-net fishing, harvest- great resorts, fabulous restaurants and “When setting up an incentive trip, exclusively for your New York group a group of 125 West/Midwestern at- Spirit’ back home with them,” says ing kalo from loi (irrigated agricul- friendly people — all within the safe it really starts from the moment they courtesy of a theater buyout, the goals tendees of a major IMO whose incen- tural terrace) and helping to restore boundaries of the U.S. Plus, no pass- receive the award,” says Jennifer Garcia, to inspire, energize and motivate can tive took them to Maui. Its meeting “We encourage visitors centuries-old loko ia (fishponds) built port is required.” be accomplished across the board and planner’s selection of is- and attendees to by early Hawaiians. For groups look- According to the Hawaii Visi- across the world. land activities included a ing to support Hawaii’s sustainability tors & Convention Bureau, Ha- Here are some destinations that snorkel/cruise/lunch excur- embrace the Islands and reforestation efforts are activities waii is experiencing a 63 percent appear custom-designed to incentiv- sion, swim with the turtles, and engage in involving the Hawaiian Legacy Refor- growth in the number of incen- ize, along with info from some of the luau and a day drive to inspiring programs estation Initiative (HLRI), which has tive bookings, which accounts industry’s key, in-the-know players. Hana — not your typical planted more than 340,000 “legacy for a 75 percent growth in room teambuilding ventures. and rejuvenating trees” across 1,000 acres on the island nights for that segment. Neis- Aloha and Mahalo The IMO planner says the experiences that of Hawaii (creating the only “legacy” ter’s assessment: “The outlook “Hawaii is a fabulous option for all- feedback he received of leave them feeling forest of its kind). on Hawaii’s incentive business incentive programs,” says Debbie Gras- the rewards trip to para- invigorated.” Planning something “different” is remains very strong, as organi- si, vice president of sales with Lynette dise was a thumbs-up from always memorable, shares incentives zations bringing incentive pro- Owens & Associates, an incentive/ all, even those originally from Hawaii, Mary Neister, CMP specialist Grassi. “Cattle drives, visiting grams to the Hawaiian Islands meeting management/event plan- for whom the incentive was like a trip Vice President MCI a dormant or active volcano, watching recognize that not only does Credit: Jennifer Garcia Jennifer Credit: ning firm in Rancho Sante Fe, California, back home. Would he do it again? “In a Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau sunrises from atop a dormant volcano employee productivity increase Honolulu, HI A property that offers boating and other water activities specializing in insurance and financial heartbeat,” he confirms. and then biking down it — anything when Hawaii is the ‘prize,’ but ranks high for incentive trips.

12 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 13 the water. I’m not sure there negotiate, but it provides an above-and- out its craft beer scene through a pri- are many locations you can beyond experience). Two of the plan- vate brewery tour of Jester King in the “I try to make do both in the same day.” ner’s preferred locations include Harvest Hill Country, learning how to row at the each attendee feel As InterWest Insurance’s Inn (St. Helena) and Napa Valley Lodge Austin Rowing Club on Lady Bird Lake like the trip was incentive focus is family- (Yountville). Of practical but additional and getting behind the wheel of some friendly, Garcia highlights appeal is the region’s proximity to three of the world’s fastest Audi Sport vehicles planned with just this region’s endless variety major international airports — Oakland, on the nation’s only Formula 1 circuit them in mind.” of activities: golfing, horse- San Francisco and Sacramento. with a pro driver as your guide (includ- back riding, fly-fishing, kayak- ing the racing world’s Eric Paradis). ing, mountain biking, hiking, My Kind of Town There’s no lack of excitement — “Austin is positioned to provide a day or night — in Las Vegas, the Jennifer Garcia boating, Jet Skiing and waterskiing; and “We treat incentives as an opportunity ‘WOW’ experience without the percep- “Entertainment Capital of the World.” Executive Administrative Assistant to CEO with winter comes downhill skiing (it’s to celebrate success of the organization Authority Visitors and Convention Vegas Las Credit: tion of a highly scrutinized, exotic loca- InterWest Insurance Services LLC the setting of the 1960 VIII Winter Olym- while having an adventure in a new place city’s hottest venues, it also offers a ka- meetings, has nearly 150,000 rooms and tion,” says Sculley. Sacramento, CA pics). She singles out Resort at Squaw or in a common place in a new way,” says raoke room, boardroom, club bar and an international airport with nonstop She gives stats: The Texas city offers executive administrative assistant to Creek for its access to the slopes (winter Renee Black, principal and senior meet- solarium bar — making it more entic- service from more than 130 cities. Riley more than 250 live music venues and CEO, InterWest Insurance Services LLC, teambuilding activities include broom- ing planner for planitomaha, a Midwest- ing for planners. says, “Insurance and financial planners 200 restaurants within the central busi- a Northern California company com- ball, dogsledding and snowshoeing) ern-based company dedicated to event often have particular needs for their ness district. “For planners, navigating prised of nine offices throughout the and the AAA Four Diamond, 422-room and meeting management solutions. Winning is Las Vegas groups which may require a certain level ‘all’ the live music and entertainment state. She continues that it’s about hav- waterfront Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Selecting Chicago time and again, When taking an incentive trip to of confidentiality. The beauty of hosting options is overwhelming, and we often ing personal touches — from the invita- Resort, Spa and Casino — noted for most recently for this year’s April event the Entertainment Capital of the World, these types of events here is that there hear, ‘There are too many options!’ We tions and making all their arrangements its private beach, Stillwater Spa and attended by 500 attendees of a market there is no shortage of options to add an are plenty of things for attendees to are one of few DMOs that has its own to greeting their arrival with a welcome Grand Lodge Casino. leader in financial services, utilizing the exclamation point to any event. explore and enjoy while also providing music office tasked with hiring local tal- card and gift basket, and ensuring ev- “We stick to the Tahoe and Napa ar- Hilton Chicago, Black applauds the city’s According to Amy Riley, senior direc- privacy for groups.” ent for VIP events,” she says. erything throughout the event runs eas for our incentives,” says Garcia. “Why versatility. “Chicago has many options tor of business sales, Las Vegas Conven- “Incentives are a growing market smoothly. “I try to make each attendee travel to farther away locations when for large and small high-end programs tion and Visitors Authority, “Just as Las Austin Has No Limits in Austin,” Sculley adds. “We believe feel like the trip was planned with just you have world-class locations just because they have multiple properties Vegas is an around-the-clock destina- Known by many incentive planners it’s a testament to our new luxury them in mind.” hours from you?” Beyond the central with 5,000-square-foot ballrooms, as tion, it’s also an unbeatable place to for its festivals — from Austin City Lim- hotel product.” Having used a variety of locations location of the Napa region (Calistoga, well as 20,000-square-foot ballrooms. bring incentive groups all year long.” its Music Festival and Formula 1 United Since 2017, Austin has welcomed a in coordinating the Chairman’s Award St. Helena, Yountville) to this Northern And, as a meeting planner, I appreciate Las Vegas averages 320 days of sun- States Grand Prix to Austin Food + Wine 1,048-room Fairmont Austin and the $75 Weekends for groups from 16 to 85, a California-based company, the planner that the (air) lift is excellent — with al- shine and less than five inches of annual Festival and South by Southwest Music million renovated LINE Austin as part of tradition for the past 10 years, Garcia de- adds, “It’s wine country and that, in itself, most every market having a direct flight rain, the weather is a perfect fit for host- Festival — this is Austin. What tails her frequent choice of Lake Tahoe. sets it apart from other regions.” to the city.” ing outdoor functions and events, as additionally differentiates the “For us, the Lake Tahoe region is close Among its numerous appeals are With the additional offerings of well as golfing, hiking and pool parties. city as an incentive destina- “Just as Las Vegas is enough to be a destination area, but hot-air ballooning, skydiving, wine sports, the arts, restaurants, tour attrac- Additionally, many newly opened tion? Visit Austin’s Courtney an around-the-clock without traveling too far. It’s unique in tours, the Napa Valley Wine Train, plus tions and excellent shopping, the plan- or planned venues, such as ARIA, Park Sculley, director of northeast destination, it’s also that you can spend the morning snow harvest season — (its busiest season, ner summates, “Many of these items MGM and CAESARS FORUM, have incor- and international sales, offers skiing and the afternoon in a boat on rates are higher, and it’s more difficult to translate to the ability to book a rooftop porated outside options into their event a three-word, one-thought an unbeatable place venue such as The Ivy, rent space at Wil- spaces. With the combo of high-profile response: “Location, loca- to bring incentive lis Tower, take a boat excursion on Lake events and professional sports franchis- tion, location.” groups all year long.” Michigan and arrange a private Second es now calling Las Vegas home, the city She explains that Aus- City show (a top attendee favorite).” An- is also emerging as a top destination tin is far enough south other hit for Black is always a “taste of for sports fans. And, in winter, there’s where visitors can enjoy the out- Amy Riley Chicago,” where the planner’s group is an abundance of lounges, reception doors year-round. It’s only a three- Senior Director of Business Sales Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority presented with a selection of the city’s areas and shows guaranteed to keep hour flight from either coast, mak- Las Vegas, NV most famous foods, including an au- attendees engaged. ing a national or global recognition thentic deep-dish pizza. Top teambuilding ops include driv- program easily accessible from most the Sydell Group. Other projects open- Known for its innovative culinary ing an exotic high-end car at SPEED- locations. And its walkable downtown ing next year include The Proper Aus- scene, the latest on Chicago’s radar VEGAS, toasting colleagues atop the offers six unique entertainment districts tin Hotel (244 rooms), Hotel ZaZa (160 is the September opening of VU, the world’s tallest observation wheel during but is less than 30 minutes from the roll- rooms) and Commodore Perry Estate South Loop’s first rooftop bar presented its “happy hour,” hands-on culinary ex- ing Hill Country and award-winning (53 rooms). Currently, there are more by the James Beard-nominated Con- periences alongside celeb chefs, back- golf and spas. than 10,000 downtown rooms, with al- centrics Restaurant Group. Set 22 sto- stage tours of major stage productions This is a city where beyond-the-norm most 40,000 citywide. ries above McCormick Place, designed and helicopter excursions over the Strip activities can include sampling a selec- Even its airport, Austin-Bergstrom In- Credit: Hotel Xcaret Mexico Xcaret Hotel Credit: Hotel Xcaret Mexico, an all-inclusive resort in Riviera Maya, is a Caribbean delight. Everything for al fresco and indoor drinking, dining and the Grand Canyon. tion of its 1,400 different food trailers ternational Airport (AUS), a state-of-the- a guest wants — food, sun and fun — is right there onsite. and lounging and touted as one of the Las Vegas hosts nearly 22,000 annual via an Austin Eats Food Tour, checking art facility, provides a fun and efficient

14 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 15 New York on a Budget? No problem. According to NYC & Company’s Cito, “Incentive planners seeking value can plan — lighting of the Rockefeller Center a January incentive trip, when the most affordable hotel rates of the year are avail- Christmas tree, private walking tours of able.” He mentions such options as NYC Restaurant Week, NYC Broadway Week, decked-out department store windows NYC Off-Broadway Week (offering 2-for-1 tickets) and NYC Must-See Week featuring and VIP views overlooking Times Square 2-for-1 admission to museums, attractions, performing arts productions and more. for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. Regardless of the timing of an incentive trip, no-cost, year-round activities can In spring, the city’s more than 1,700 be found — ranging from walking the Brooklyn Bridge or the Highline to museum parks, playgrounds and recreation fa- visits on free-admission days. cilities come alive with Central Park Lastly and of interest to summer-seeking, budget-minded planners, Cito and Prospect Park becoming car-free adds that July and August are a second period of value when available rates are this year. Now open are the waterfront more competitive. — CD developments of Hunter’s Point South (phase II) in Long Island City, Domino Park on the Williamsburg waterfront time. Among its perks are 350 daily the only all-inclusive concept in Riviera and Pier 3 at Brooklyn Bridge Park. flights with nonstop service to more Maya with unlimited access to Xcaret, In fall, the proliferation of high-end than 80 destinations, Southern hospi- Xel-Ha, Xplor, Xplor Fuego, Xavage, Xoxi- retailers and exclusive behind-the- tality-style customer service, a selection milco and Xenses parks, as well as tours scenes shopping opportunities are un- of local food (including breakfast tacos, to Xenotes and Xichen, food and bever- matched for incentive participants with brisket and Shiner Bock beer), 1,500 live ages, transportation between parks and a passion for purchasing, including such music performances last year and the airport shuttle. perks as VIP access to the Macy’s Thanks- expansion of nine new gates in 2019. “Hotel Xcaret is the ideal destina- giving Day Parade. tion because our All-Fun Inclusive con- Recognizing this city as the Big Fun in the Caribbean cept grants guests complimentary ac- Apple of incentives is a meeting plan- What better incentive than the cess to our parks and excursions,” says ner from a major Midwestern fraternal lure of the warm sun and white-sand Wendy Canul, groups director at Hotel insurance company, where his group of beaches of the Mexican Caribbean? Xcaret Mexico. “That’s, of course, in ad- 900 enjoyed a harbor dinner cruise on Mexico’s year-round tropical climate dition to our stunning venues located the Fourth of July (complete with fire- gives visitors the chance to relax and throughout our ‘caletas’ and private works, of course), a visit to the National enjoy whenever they want. beaches, which offer guests the unique September 11 Memorial & Museum and Designed with incentives in mind, opportunity of interacting with nature a Broadway play (if the group is large Hotel Xcaret Mexico is an all-inclusive while enjoying top-notch accommoda- enough, a theater buyout is possible). resort in Riviera Maya, very close to the tions, service and gastronomy provided What is the greatest appeal of the by the hotel.” nation’s largest city to the incentive “The need for The upscale resort boasts market, especially to insurance and fi- more than 35,000 square feet nancial planners? Cito says, “New York incentivization of multifunctional indoor City is the financial capital of the world continues to grow, as and outdoor meeting space. and is home to iconic destinations, in- gift cards do not offer Other luxurious amenities cluding Wall Street and the New York the same motivation include infinity pools, three Stock Exchange.” gyms and 10 restaurants. A city where everything is possible, as trips to enviable this is an incentive destination where destinations.” Start Spreading the News even functions at the UN are not off the “The need for incentiviza- table and zip lining in a compact city of Jerry Cito tion continues to grow, as gift more than 8 million is also available at Senior Vice President, Convention Development cards do not offer the same the Bronx Zoo. NYC & Company motivation as trips to envi- New York is where a planner can New York, NY able destinations,” says Jerry charter a cruise to Ellis Island for the center of Playa del Carmen. The prop- Cito, senior vice president, convention private use of the historic terminus, ar- erty has 900 rooms distributed in “Casas,” development at NYC & Company, the range batting sessions with former Yan- different buildings that pay special trib- official destination marketing organiza- kee players, coordinate VIP entry to the ute to the Mayan region. tion for New York City. opening and/or closing ceremonies of The resort offers plenty of perks, as Discussing the city in terms of the the U.S. Open and watch sunrises from well as the opportunity to visit the best time of year, the New York City special- the top of the Empire State Building. parks in Riviera Maya and Cancun. All- ist lists the best of each season. Winter Bottom line: It’s a sky’s-the-limit kind Fun Inclusive by Hotel Xcaret México is brings the exuberance of the holidays of town. I&FMM

16 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT groups (age, for example) than to un- A Winning Approach derstand the complexities of each in- Melissa Van Dyke, president of the Incentive Research Foundation, says that dividual, especially when dealing with one approach for planners and event organizers is to focus on things that are large numbers of people, such as at- known to be a win for all generations, such as the following: The Great Divide tendees at a conference or tradeshow. •• Acquiring goods and status that are meaningful: Have attendees Placing our boomers or millennials — choose from an amenity bar rather than dictating their amenity. Provide even our centennials — into boxes can opportunities to acquire status throughout the event via mobile apps or make it easier for us to manage their small competitions. expectations,” States says. •• Bonding: Build in calculated time for purposeful interaction. Regardless “But there are challenges associated of the meeting format, find time for attendees to solve problems together with assumptions, e.g., boomers are and generate wins for the organization as a group. tech-inept and millennials can’t func- •• Creating: Attendees don’t just want knowledge. Our instinct is to tion without it. Not everyone or even immediately USE the information we learn. Have attendees engage in most everyone fits into the cookie- some way to create a work of art or even complete a quiz together based cutter parameters that we create. And on the information they just received. as each of our attendees, regardless of •• Defending: At the core, we want to know we are good at what we do. age, increasingly seeks unique, curated Find a way to recognize all attendees for their contributions to the event experiences, we may well be doing and the organization. I&FMM our events and participants a disser- vice by placing people into age-based buckets. It is for this precise reason elements are relevant across mul- Dyke says. “In reality, however, the pro- that we have added WEC Experience tiple generations. One factor that has gram that is crafted for a group of late- Create Programs With Multigenerational Coaches this year.” emerged since the foundation’s 2015 20-somethings, who are single and less report is wellness. traveled, could and should look very Motivating Forces “The most recent meeting trend different than the program for the same Appeal For Attendees to Connect Experts agree that there are many we’ve seen that has an impact on and age of attendees who are married with factors capable of driving human mo- is being driven in different ways by a children and have traveled extensively.” By Christine Loomis tivation, some tied to age or life stages multigenerational workforce is wellness,” At the end of the day, States says, here’s overall agreement among descriptions of the generations — or and incentive organizers have found but others to different things entirely. she says. “Whereas younger generations creating welcoming experiences for all experts that a generational divide the specific years they represent — let many new ways to approach this “People are motivated by different have fewer economic resources, they do attendees is the key to any program. Tcurrently exists within company alone anything else. topic, not the least of which is to drop rewards — oftentimes unrelated to have a desire to live ‘Instagrammable’ “Instead of approaching the plan- employee pools and among attendees “For organizations hoping to tailor the stereotypes. age,” States says. “They may be driven lives focused on ‘wellth,’ or finding ways ning process with questions of how we at meetings and in incentive programs. their incentive and engagement pro- or inspired by experiences (incentives), to show their dedication to a healthy, will accommodate a certain age cohort, The problem is that there has been no grams for employees and customers, Stereotyping money, time off, shortened work weeks wellness-oriented lifestyle. Boomers we should consider all of the ways our consensus on how to close it. Much of the debate concerning the generations “What we found from a look across or a flexible environment. These may and Gen Xers are driving this trend, as attendees are indeed different,” she says. the discussion has previously focused can be confusing and even overwhelm- many different types of studies on gen- be driven by familial needs (young fam- well, with a desire for more health and “We’ve identified more than 30 ways our on how to determine — and then cater ing,” the executive summary states. erations is that a person’s generation ily, older parents) or career goals (title, comfort central to their well-being at participants differ from one another, to — each generation’s different needs. “Like economists, no two generational is only one aspect of what influences work. This is increasing and I am sure there are many more. Today, that conversation is shifting. experts fully agree on the description their event experience desires,” she “Not everyone or even their interest in well- From culture, gender and physical abil- Some experts and organizations for each generation, a truth that is says. “Life stage, including if they have most everyone fits into the ness products and ity to skill set, socio-economic status are noting that we may have gotten it well-documented both in the expert finished school, if they are married, if services included in and even just event goals, there are a wrong. Instead of focusing on differ- interviews conducted for and summa- they have children and how tenured cookie-cutter parameters their experiences.” vast array of ways we need to create ences, the means to closing the divide rized in this paper, and in the dozens they are in their current career, can of- that we create.” welcoming and inclusive experiences lies in honing in on all of the similarities of papers, books and articles refer- tentimes have a much greater impact Misconceptions that far outweigh our preconceptions that generations share, and in recogniz- enced throughout.” on what attendees are looking for from Jessie States, CMP, CMM Much of the discus- about age as a determining factor of be- Head of Meeting Innovation ing that defining people by their specific Most importantly, the report em- an experience.” sion related to genera- havior or needs. MPI is focused on creat- Meeting Professionals International generation may not be productive at all. phasizes that in addition to the spe- Jessie States, CMP, CMM, head of tional divides, at least in ing industry-leading education around Dallas, TX In 2015, the Incentive Research cific generation into which someone meeting innovation for MPI, agrees the meetings and incen- inclusivity and continues to promote Foundation (IRF) tackled this issue in is born, there are many other factors that stereotyping is not an effective authority) or material desires. Know- tive world, revolves around fostering the importance of hosting welcoming a report. As the summary pointed out, that influence a person’s needs, prefer- approach, and as a result, the 2018 ing your employees and what drives and increasing engagement at confer- experiences for all attendees.” the discussion around this topic and the ences, interests and goals in life, work World Education Congress will have them as individuals is key to providing ences, events and incentive programs. conclusions reached by many experts and meetings, well apart from the year new elements in place. motivation for them to sell more, per- But how to engage is not always clear. Making Programs Relevant inside and outside of the meetings in- they were born. “The science behind stereotyping form more efficiently or even just stick “In some spaces, there’s a miscon- The key here lies at least partially dustry have been hampered by the fact Melissa Van Dyke, president of IRF, is enlightening. That is, it’s cognitively around longer.” ception that solving the generation in determining and offering those that there is no consensus on the basic notes that since that report, meeting easier for humans to place people into Van Dyke also notes that some ‘issue’ will increase engagement,” Van elements that have broad cross-appeal.

18 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 19 “For instance, including appropriate solutions to the challenges your attend- and breaks and menus are sufficient for Planner Strategies & Solutions wellness, giveback and status com- ees face and creating behavior change an older or younger audience ticks off In Appendix C in the 2015 Incentive Research Foundation report, planners expressed their ideas for engaging multiple gen- ponents can be well-received by all that moves them forward, regardless of more than just the age box as you look erations and creating opportunities in incentive programs and offsite meetings. The answers were divided into two groupings. generations,” Van Dyke says. “Likewise, age or where they are in their careers,” toward designing inclusive experiences.” engaging your attendees with mobile she adds. “Including technologies with- In the end, States says, her best Ways Meeting Planners Are Bringing Ways Planners Are Creating Unique And Distinct Options technology before, during and after an Generations Together •• Offer a website tailored for group program options event is no longer a nod to millennials; “The best networking and educational •• Bring the different generations together with so that everyone can easily see the range of rather, it’s an important way to help all experiences come when we stretch ourselves a common thread, make it different every time. options available. busy attendees keep up-to-date on the •• Feature theme parties — they tend to appeal to •• For Gen Xers especially, one of the leisure activities experience without carrying around a to diversify our interactions, and that includes many generations. should be a car rental, so they can go off on their own and stack of paper.” engaging with those much older and younger •• At the dinners, do assigned seating so boomers explore the region. In addition, she advises planners than us throughout the meeting experience.” and millennials are sitting together rather than with •• Tailor the communications around your program to the to “create places and spaces for people their friends. preferences of each generation. of various generations to purposefully Melissa Van Dyke, President •• Include cross-generational teambuilding events and •• Always try to have a couple of breakouts that are connect. Human instinct is to gravitate The Incentive Research Foundation, Eureka, MO a wider choice of activities and content sessions. specific to each generation so they don’t feel bored. toward those who are like us. However, •• Include icebreaker activities that everyone participates With activities, make sure they run the full gamut, from when done thoughtfully, through pur- in your design that create connections advice for planners is: “Host your multi- in, and a hospitality suite to promote group interaction. surfing to shopping. pose-built teambuilding, CSR or round- and engagement can lead to those generational programs just as you •• Pick a destination that has a variety of activities — a •• Allow a room and activities credit so each guest can table activities, for example, bringing types of solutions, but should not be would any meeting or event. Treat each simple golf and spa destination doesn’t work, especially select their own activity/spa choice instead of one different generations together to solve the only way for people to connect with individual as an individual, provide a if it’s remote. Find a destination that can accommodate group activity. current business or social issues can be one another. Analog solutions, such variety of technology-based and analog a variety of interests within close proximity to •• Offer optional activities that appeal to different the highlight of the program ... for both as unique session formats (fishbowls, experiences and ask questions that help the hotel/resort. generations. There is usually some crossover but this the business and the organization.” open space, dotmocracies), can be just you cater to the needs of your partici- •• Create different programs for different generations. works, as there tends to be higher satisfaction rates That’s not to say that age is entirely as compelling as the tech-based en- pants, whether they be physical or intel- •• Invite the multiple generations to join in the after programs. irrelevant. As States points out, differ- gagement platforms that are so popular lectual, mental or spiritual needs.” planning sessions. •• For evening functions, consider VIP after-parties for ences in age can also mean differences today. Creating a mix of these solutions •• Include outside team activities — scavenger hunts/ younger crowds and a chill-out traditional pub area in skill set and career maturity. can service all attendees better than Attendee Responsibility treasure hunts/ races, etc., so that all are involved and for the older generation. “For that reason, it’s important that any one method can.” Conference and incentive attendees help them get to know each other socially. •• Make GoPro cameras available to each guest for the meeting professionals plan experiences Age, States says, “does impact move- themselves have a lot of skin in this •• Build consensus through marketing communications duration of the trip with the learning lab included (for wherein individuals can seek best ment, mobility, sensory ability and game. If they work all year to qualify for that appeal to all generations, and select locations that those who don’t know how to use it). practices, advice and problem-solving much more, but so do other conditions an incentive trip, it should meet their appeal to everyone. •• Allow participants to build their own amenity mix. from their peers, while at the same that are age-unrelated. So, ensuring that needs and be everything they expected •• Engage all generations as a team in a project for charity. •• Create different focus areas, such as a jazz corner near the time, designing space for those same your breaks provide for enough time — whether they’re a millennial or •• Design competitions that level the playing field bar or a DJ at the pool. individuals to mentor and learn up and to move from place to place, that your a baby boomer. across generations. •• Add GPS scavenger hunts to engage millennials. I&FMM down,” she says. presentations include fonts that are If employees take time away from “Relevance comes from finding large enough to read, that your meals work and family to attend a conference,

it should deliver something of value those much older and younger than us each other and the solutions they seek to every employee who attends in throughout the meeting experience.” together will drive greater results for How Many Generations Are We Talking About? terms of education, networking and/ States agrees. “Attendees will be the meetings we hold.” It’s clear that there will always be about 55 million millennials, (16- to that in 2016, a full 61.8 percent of baby or developing new skills. And by doing well-served if they choose to interact These are all valid points, and plan- multiple generations working and 34-year-olds at that time) formed the boomers ages 55 to 64 would still be so, the conference delivers ROI to the with people who are different from ners have much to work with just in meeting together, but perhaps more largest share of the U.S. civilian work- employed, and 18.6 percent of those company, as well. themselves, be it in terms of age, gen- terms of what’s offered in this one ar- generations than in years past be- force. The remainder of the workforce age 65 and older would remain in The question is what part do attend- der, culture, race, physical ability, socio- ticle. But the fact is that the answers cause baby boomers are not leaving included about 53 million Gen Xers the workforce. ees themselves play in ensuring that economic background or any other we come up with today will not be the the workforce. (ages 35 to 50 in 2015) and about 44 Those statistics and estimates make value? One definitive way is by stepping kind of differentiator,” she says. final answers for the future. Just as our As the IRF report noted in 2015, the million baby boomers (ages 51 to clear that the trend of four or five distinct outside of their normal comfort zone “We learn most from people with views on this topic have evolved over U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics at that 70 that year). generations working together is likely and being open to possibilities. different experiences and challenges, the past decade, they will continue point showed that the workforce was There were another 4 to 5 million of to be the norm for many years to come, “Our instinct is to network with those who have discovered solutions unlike to change as we move into and think about 157 million people strong and the “traditionalist” generation, meaning meaning meeting and incentive plan- with whom we are most comfortable, our own, who have found knowledge about what is to come. growing, with four distinct generations those still in the workforce who were ners must find ways to bring all of these those who are like us,” Van Dyke says. in unique ways. Creating spaces and “The generational question will working side by side, and “a fifth gen- age 71 and older. generations together in productive con- “But the best networking and education- places for our disparate attendees to always be part of the conversation,” eration set to enter in 2016.” Welcome A 2015 report from Catalyst, a ferences and programs that increase en- al experiences come when we stretch connect, engage and learn from one an- Van Dyke says. “What will change is Generation Z, those born after 1995. global nonprofit focused on building gagement, motivation and productivity ourselves to diversify our interac- other is the calling of all meeting profes- which generation we are currently According to the report that year, better workplaces for women, noted across the generational board. I&FMM tions, and that includes engaging with sionals, and helping our attendees find talking about.” I&FMM

20 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 21 (including several insurance and fi- experience when they allow you to for Humanity, the American Red Cross nancial firms), continues to see an up- impact people’s lives on business time.” and the United Way, to customize team- tick in business. When FM Global held its worldwide building experiences of all shapes and “We’ve already done three times as conference in Boca Raton, Florida, “we sizes. Some examples include competi- CSR-Enhanced many events as last year with insurance contacted a local charity affiliated with tive ‘builds’ for Habitat in teams (which companies,” Ranzer reports. “What we’re a religious organization,” says Robinson. team can build the most fences or chairs finding is that companies really take CSR “We were able to assemble “Combining seriously. The companies that are doing packages for schoolchildren it right don’t look at CSR as a check-box in South America. It was nice teambuilding Teambuilding item for their meeting; they understand because we got an email and community that it’s just as important as the speak- with pictures from the kids service ... really ers you select, the outings, the training who were happy to receive sessions” and other components. their packages.” helps meeting When CSR is combined with team- These returns on emotion participants connect building, the activity delivers a stron- are especially valuable when to a greater purpose ger “return on emotion” in two respects. a company is undergoing and each other.” First, participants connect more deeply challenges that can nega- with one another, compared to team- tively affect the morale and attitude of Katrina Kent Director, The Event Group building that lacks a charitable aspect. its employees. TD Ameritrade “When you can do something that is “I’ve had clients that are coming to- Jersey City, N.J. going to touch you personally, and you gether in times of downsizing or when share in that experience of changing major decisions have to be made, and the fastest) and various tournaments someone’s life together with your col- when you use a CSR activity to kick off with Special Olympics, as well as 5K races leagues, it creates an emotional bond those events, it can really take the edge for charity — and our meeting partici- in a way that non-community service off and have people open up emotion- pants comingled.” teambuilding cannot,” Ranzer explains. ally, which sets the tone for the time Kent’s team has found that “ap- Second, participants connect more you’re together,” Ranzer relates. proaching organizations directly is deeply with their company. “It endears An example of a firm that has successful because most partners are Delivering a ‘Return on Emotion’ you to your company,” he says. “There’s achieved that greater return on emo- equipped and eager to work with us on been so much written about employ- tion from CSR-oriented teambuilding the opportunity.”

Credit: Berkshire HorseWorks Berkshire Credit: ee engagement in the last five years. is TD Ameritrade. Katrina Kent, director, Post-event, measuring the impact MassMutual Life Insurance Company held a teambuilding event with horses at Berkshire HorseWorks’ ranch in Richmond, Massachusetts. When you do something to give back The Event Group, notes that “combining of the activity is often easier when to the community under your com- teambuilding and community service teambuilding is combined with CSR. By Patrick Simms pany’s name, you feel good about who has been quite successful for us and re- “You often have quite tangible output he evolution of corporate team- and the programs are well-defined: who have a meeting and show that we’re not you work for. So, you’re more willing to ally helps meeting participants connect to measure, whether that’s X dollars building over recent decades has benefits, how the funds or materials are just having a boondoggle, let’s make give all your discretionary effort to your to a greater purpose and each other. raised or houses built, etc.,” says Kent. Tmade planning these activities disseminated, not-for-profit status, as sure we’re doing something to make a company. They aren’t just giving you We’ve worked with several of our core “You can really see and feel the impact easier. Today, there are more structured well as logistics, such as transportation, difference at the same time.” a paycheck, but also this uplifting community partners, including Habitat in a powerful way.” opportunities for groups that want to activity descriptions, what groups need Thankfully, improving the public’s improve their cohesiveness. Many of to bring and so on.” perception of offsite meetings was not Balance is Key them are offered by CVBs, DMCs, spe- Diverse and well-structured team- the only motivation for philanthropic The greater diversity of teambuild- cialized teambuilding companies and building programs benefit planners teambuilding. After the economy im- ing experiences available today means even hoteliers. The options have gone far looking to implement an activity that is proved, that kind of program remained that planners can be selective. More beyond ropes courses and bike building. both targeted to their group and easy a staple due to its dual benefit. criteria comes into play, beyond the In the ‘80s and ‘90s, “no one had to run. But, many programs are advan- “It’s not a trend; this is something time available during the meeting for pages of [teambuilding] opportunities,” tageous to entities beyond the planner that has continued and grown ever the activity. For example, planners may recalls Wayne M. Robinson, CMP, CMM, and attendees. since,” says Ranzer, who has collabo- consider how competitive (if at all) they assistant vice president at FM Global and Charitable teambuilding is going rated with FICP on some of its philan- want the activity to be. incoming FICP chair. The opportunities strong, particularly since the recession thropic initiatives. “There are more and In Kent’s opinion, “Friendly competi- for corporate social responsibility (CSR) of 2008. During that time, many insur- more companies like mine that are of- tion juices everything up. When people were not as robust and well-organized ance and financial companies added a fering CSR opportunities to their clients are working hard for something that as they are now. philanthropic element to their team- because they are so popular.” they care about, friendly competition “For most DMCs today, it’s a part of building. Alan Ranzer, managing part- This year, Impact 4 Good, a com- makes it just a little more enticing.” Credit: Alan Ranzer Alan Credit: their proposals. In fact, there are com- ner/co-founder of Impact 4 Good, de- pany that offers community service- Working with charitable organizations and doing community service gives groups the But in general, elements like com- panies who only manage CSR programs, scribes the motivation: “If we’re going to oriented teambuilding to corporations opportunity to bond through philanthropic teambuilding. petitiveness, physicality or intellectual

22 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 23 challenge should only be emphasized if an indirect form of CSR: Berkshire pro- Hayley Sumner, founder and executive unique. My company and my leader the participant demographics call for it. vides financial assistance to at-risk youth, director of Berkshire HorseWorks, visited really care about me. They want us to “Balance is key,” Kent asserts. “Even families and veterans who could not MountainOne’s office a week in advance. improve in these situations.’” when you’re doing a physical activity otherwise afford equine therapy. Denmark describes the meeting: “At or something like a trivia challenge that Groups that want to teambuild at that point, we had not told the team Let the Games Begin may be geared more toward extroverts, Berkshire HorseWorks have several up- what we were doing. She asked people Unique types of CSR-oriented team- it’s important to consider the experi- scale lodging options in its surround- questions on defining conflict and cul- building can also be conducted at the ence for all and plan accordingly for ing resort area, such as Cranwell Spa ture in your personal lives vs. your pro- group’s hotel or meeting venue if travel & Golf Resort and Canyon fessional lives, and putting some tags time is a factor. “When you do Ranch Lenox. Recently, Berk- to them. So, what does conflict look Ranzer gives the example of Finan- something to shire HorseWorks — in col- like? And, people said things like stress cial Literacy Monopoly, one of many give back to the laboration with Stable Con- or competition. And, what does culture programs designed and offered by community under nections — partnered with look like? And, people would say things Impact 4 Good. The game naturally the Boulderwood estate in like family, unity and togetherness. So, resonates with insurance and financial your company’s Stockbridge, Massachusetts, she set the stage in getting to know groups, and benefits local high school name, you feel to offer exclusive retreats our team a little bit. By the end of the and middle school students who good about who for families and organiza- presentation, she was showing people also participate. tions of all kinds. pictures of horses on the screen and “The questions to earn Monopoly you work for.” Boulderwood is an 11- saying, ‘How does this horse make you properties are all about financial literacy. Alan Ranzer bedroom shingle and fieldstone home feel?’ It might be sprinting or standing Before the game starts, we bring in local Managing Partner/Co-founder situated on 75 acres and abutting the there in a fold.” kids to be on their teams. And, as they’re Impact 4 Good 12,000-acre Beartown State Forest. Built At the ranch, the theme of emotion- going through these questions, they’re Bethesda, MD in 1900 by Yale Professor Henry Farnum, ally connecting to horses continued. actually teaching these kids what these various levels of engagement. At the the house is located near many cultural “Hayley had laid out about 100 differ- concepts are,” Ranzer explains. “One end of the day, these things are great attractions including Tanglewood, Nor- ent pictures of horses. Everyone had to analyst said to me: ‘It’s refreshing to do tools to bring people together, and man Rockwell Museum, The Mount and pick out a picture of a horse that rep- something that makes sense for who inclusivity is key.” Shakespeare and Company. Groups resented their role at Mountain One we are. We’ve done scavenger hunts Regarding the selection of the team- have meeting rooms with basic AV Insurance Agency, and then describe it HorseWorks Berkshire Credit: and things that can be fun, but there’s a Groups had to perform tasks as a unit to successfully complete different activities on the ranch. building’s community beneficiaries, one equipment available, and PBS host and to the entire group,” says Denmark. “So, reason that all of us are financial analysts. guideline is the group’s philanthropic Executive Chef Carol Murko prepares someone who may have been a new the paddock for the first teambuilding able to make people who wouldn’t typi- To be able to pay it forward and teach history, which indicates the kind of all meals. Berkshire HorseWorks would producer may pick out a picture of a exercise. The task was to have a team cally be leaders, leaders in this situation.” kids about these concepts really allows causes that will move attendees and/ hold all equine activities at Boulder- young horse following its parents, and member lead one of two horses out- The second teambuilding exercise us to view our work in this industry in a or the C suite. wood for the client. she would explain, ‘This is me. I’m still side the fence. No talking was permit- had attendees work out conflicting different way.’” “Another thing to keep in mind is MountainOne Insurance Agency, Inc. learning, I’m following.’ Others would ted once team members entered the agendas. They were given index cards After the game is over, Impact 4 what’s happening locally,” says Ranzer. has held a four-hour team- paddock, so they had to make plans with conflicting instructions on what to Good gives Kiva cards to the teams. “We have clients that have planned or building event at Berkshire “It was kind of an before entering. do with the horses, without knowledge “They go on to kiva.org and search the are planning to run programs in Puerto HorseWorks’ ranch for 15 high- interesting lesson “As a team, we had to work among of one another’s agendas. world over for [low-income entrepre- Rico; well, we all know what happened performing salespeople. that says not every ourselves to [determine] who has expe- “It was just absolute chaos with 15 neurs and students] who are looking there in terms of (Hurricane Maria in “The primary goal was to client is the same, rience with horses,” Denmark explains. people trying to do different things for small loans. The Kiva cards we give 2017). If you’re doing things in California, be a reward and get them out “We identified a couple people, and with the horses. So, that was really them have a monetary value, and as a there (could be) wildfires. If planning in of the office for about a half and it’s really those people became the leaders, and interesting in having to kind of sell team, they will fulfill a loan application the Carolinas, (there could be another a day to do something fun,” important to match we kind of emboldened them. They our agenda to one another while and pick which project they want to hurricane). So knowing what has hap- relates Jonathan Denmark, up the right person went inside the paddock, communi- following the instructions on the index add money to,” says Ranzer. pened on the ground locally is another LIA, CLTC, CISR, CLCS, presi- cated with the horse nonverbally by card,” says Denmark. The program thus goes the extra indicator of the type of (charitable) ac- dent and COO of Mountain- with the right client.” touching and combing its hair, put the Overall, Denmark feels the equine mile by teaching kids, who are the com- tivity that might be good for your group.” One Insurance Agency. “The Jonathan Denmark, LIA, CLTC, CISR, CLCS reins on and led it outside the paddock activity “really humanized people. It munity beneficiaries of the activity, to Finding new activities and new secondary goal was to get President and COO totally silent. And, of course, the whole broke down a lot of the thick barriers be philanthropic themselves. Ultimately, causes can also spark a little more enthu- some salespeople that don’t MountainOne Insurance Agency team exploded with applause after they and made them a little more vulner- teambuilding that is steeped in CSR not siasm among participants. For instance, typically work with others in Pittsfield, MA successfully did this.” able. We had a session afterward where only helps to unify workforces. teambuilding through equine therapy situations where they have to get to pick out the black stallion [representing Denmark extrapolates the experi- we talked about what everyone learned It also indirectly helps to unify organizations is fairly uncommon, and know each other’s style, work together their role as a sales leader]. So, it was in- ence to a business scenario: “It was kind about themselves or others, and the communities by promoting the value thus can intrigue attendees. Richmond, to solve a problem and build a stronger teresting to see people outside of their of an interesting lesson that says not feedback was absolutely incredible. I of social responsibility. Ideally, com- Massachusetts-based Berkshire Horse- team overall.” comfort zones explaining and trying to every client is the same, and it’s really also think it helps with retention when munity members themselves will be Works is one such option, and partner- The program actually began before relate to these horse pictures.” important to match up the right person you do something like that for your also achieving a “return on emotion” ing with the 501(C)(3) organization is the group was onsite. EAGALA-certified Next, the attendees met outside with the right client.… And, we were salespeople. They say, ‘This is really through good works. I&FMM

24 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 25 20th Annual 2018 World Class Award Winners CONVENTION & Atlantis Paradise Island, The Bahamas VISITORS BUREAUS Paradise Island, The Bahamas Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa Discover The Palm Beaches Ko Olina, HI West Palm Beach, FL The Broadmoor Experience Scottsdale Colorado Springs, CO Scottsdale, AZ Caesars Palace Las Vegas Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau Las Vegas, NV Miami, FL The Diplomat Beach Resort Hollywood, FL Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau Honolulu, HI Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa Manalapan, FL Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority Las Vegas, NV Fontainebleau Miami Beach Miami Beach, FL Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. Atlantis Paradise Island, Nashville, TN Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa Greater Miami The Bahamas Fort Lauderdale, FL Convention & Visitors Bureau San Diego Tourism Authority San Diego, CA Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center Nashville, TN San Francisco Travel Association San Francisco, CA Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort Honolulu, HI Visit Austin Austin, TX Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa Maui, HI VISIT DENVER Loews Coronado Bay Resort Denver, CO Coronado, CA Visit Jacksonville Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Jacksonville, FL Orlando, FL The Broadmoor Visit Orlando M Resort Spa Casino Sea Island Resort Orlando, FL Las Vegas, NV

Visit Phoenix Ocean Reef Club Phoenix, AZ Key Largo, FL Sea Island Resort Sea Island, GA HOTELS, RESORTS & CONFERENCE CENTERS Trump National Doral Miami Miami, FL ARIA Resort & Casino Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort Las Vegas, NV Lake Buena Vista, FL Arizona Biltmore Wynn Las Vegas Phoenix, AZ Las Vegas, NV The Diplomat Beach Resort Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort

26 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 27 Atlantis, Paradise Island BRIDGE SUITE OFFER tlantis, Paradise Island, the lush, dation, the resort’s nonprofit organiza- oceanside resort in The Bahamas, tion dedicated to saving sea species The Best View At Atlantis Could Be Yours Arecently embarked on a new and their extraordinary habitats. chapter (“Bahamas at Heart”) tied to a meaningful connection with the prop- Meetings erty’s 7,300-plus employees and the With the largest conference center rich history, art, people, food, marine in the Caribbean, Atlantis boasts life and festivities of the country. 200,000 square feet of indoor meeting space highlighted by the 50,000- square-foot Imperial Ballroom and Wendy Blaney A Refreshed Chief Sales Officer and Refined Stay 25,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom. Atlantis features five distinct prop- The 60 meeting rooms on-property One Casino Drive erties at which to stay, from the allows Atlantis to accommodate Paradise Island, Nassau, The Bahamas iconic The Royal to The Beach and groups of 15 to 4,000 and more than 800-722-2449 The Coral to the newly built luxury 20 distinct outdoor venues totaling FAX: 954-809-7906 properties, The Cove and The Reef. 300,000 square feet entertain parties [email protected] www.atlantisbahamas.com The Coral, newly renovated, has re- of up to 5,000. opened as a fully redesigned family escape, while The Exceptional Experiences Cove recently celebrated a Atlantis is also known as one of the series of new design col- ultimate culinary and nightlife desti- laborations, restaurants nations in the Caribbean, housing a and guest experiences, collection of more than 40 restaurants each paying homage to and lounges from world-renowned Bahamian culture. chefs including Nobu Matsuhisa, José Andrés and Todd English. Ocean-themed Resort The resort also has one of the The ocean-themed resort Caribbean’s most renowned casinos, is built around Aquaventure, with more than 47,000 square feet an innovative 141-acre water- of gaming options spread across scape of thrilling slides the property. and river rides, pools and Other amenities include the At- Citywide Facts and Features white-sand beaches, and features one lantis Marina, Marina Village market- Guest Rooms/Suites: 3,400 of the largest open-air marine habitats place, Mandara Spa, Kids and Teen in the world, with more than 50,000 Clubs, award-winning 18-hole Tom Meeting Space: 500,000 square marine animals from 250 species. Weiskopf-designed golf course, tennis feet indoor and outdoor In addition to various habitats courts and duty-free shopping com- Special Services & Amenities: across the property, guests are able to plemented by some of the biggest Atlantis is your portal to a truly visit Dolphin Cay, the 14-acre marine names in the industry. Bahamian experience featuring five distinct hotels, unparalleled mammal habitat and education MeetingsAtAtlantis.com meeting and convention space, center, whose first residents were What’s Coming an open-air marine habitat, rescue dolphins and sea lions from Atlantis plans to announce more 1.800.722.2449 a 141-acre waterscape, 5 Hurricane Katrina. renovations and property upgrades in miles of white-sand beaches A portion of the cost of each of the the coming months, including news and so much more. on-property marine interactions goes of redesigned rooms and suites at The Group Bridge Suite Offer Terms and Conditions: Book a new group at Atlantis, Paradise Island, with a minimum of 1,500 room nights for arrival between now and December 31, 2019 and group back to the Atlantis Blue Project Foun- Royal & The Reef in 2019. I&FMM will receive one complimentary upgrade to the iconic Bridge Suite including 24 hour Butler Service available throughout the stay. Contract must be signed by December 31, 2018. Applicable to new groups only. Offer is subject to availability and blackout dates and can be pulled at any time. Offer is not combinable with any other offers. See full details at www.meetingsatatlantis.com. 28 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT The Diplomat Beach Resort resh off a $100 million transfor- sensibilities and exudes brand indi- mation in April 2017, The Diplo- viduality, creating distinct spaces and Fmat Beach Resort — Conde Nast experiences, from famed restaurateur Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2016 and chef Michael Schulson’s award- and 2017, voted one of the Top Resorts winning Japanese-inspired Monkitail in Florida — is Hollywood, Florida’s — voted Best New Restaurant by USA most iconic property, boasting 1,000 Today and Sun-Sentinel, Best Hotel guest rooms and suites. Restaurant by USA Today in 2017 and Additionally, The Diplomat is the OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice Awards largest in hotel convention space in in February 2018 — to celebrity chef Laurens Zieren General Manager South Florida with the most expansive Geoffrey Zakarian’s Point Royal — a ballroom south of Orlando. Coastal American restaurant. 3555 S. Ocean Drive The Diplomat Beach Resort features Guests can recharge at the resort’s Hollywood, FL 33019 more than 209,000 square feet of indoor 24-hour fitness center, full-service spa 954-602-8600 flexible function and meeting space and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean or FAX: 954-602-8275 continues to serve as the premier loca- enjoy two beachfront pools. [email protected] www.diplomatresort.com tion for business travel and large-scale There are also 25 private waterfront Beach Resort – Curio Collection by Hilton, welcomes your group and attendees to conferences, weddings and cabanas, including four designed by the experience our newly renovated beachside destination. We mix getting down to milestone celebrations. iconic lifestyle and fashion brand, Trina With recent upgrades in Turk. Other water activities include Jet business with just the right touches of leisure. A modern day social hub with a buzzy comprehensive technology, Skiing, ocean kayaking, paddleboard reputation for 10 new culinary, restaurant and bar concepts boldly led by celebrity and unbeatable ocean views, rentals and the property’s newest chefs, great entertainment, great times and a menu of activities customized to travelers and locals can addition, the Dip + Slide water play area. groups of all sizes. expect thoughtfully designed and unique spaces meant to Perfect Location One of the most remarkable stretches of sand and sea in Florida and conveniently create memorable meetings, The Diplomat Beach Resort contin- located just a few steps from the beautiful South Florida sleek shoreline. Rising 36 events and retreats. ues to serve as the largest convention • 50,000-square-foot un- hotel in South Florida and the pre- obstructed Great Hall mier location for business travel and Intracoastal Waterway, the 1,000 guestrooms and suites at The Diplomat Beach able to accommodate large-scale conferences, weddings and Resort, are designed to be comfortable retreats with sleek, sophisticated designs, up to 5,000 guests milestone celebrations. • Four ballrooms, including Located at 3555 South Ocean ocean, Intracoastal Waterway or Hollywood, Florida skyline. Citywide Facts and Features 20,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom Drive, Hollywood, Florida, the re- Guest Rooms/Suites: 1,000 overlooking the Atlantic, able to ac- sort is spread across the Intracoastal commodate up to 850 guests Waterway and Atlantic Ocean, just Meeting Space: 209,000 • 39 breakout rooms, ideal for steps from North Miami Beach, border- square feet smaller events ing Fort Lauderdale. Schulson Special Services & Amenities: • Outdoor special event areas, The Diplomat is within a 15-minute • 50,000 Sq. Ft. of Exhibition Hall with no columns + 30 Ft. Ceilings 10 culinary outlets, from including the pool deck and drive from the Fort Lauderdale Inter- • 4 social ballrooms casual to fine dining; water recreation: Jet Ski, ocean South Palm Court national/Hollywood International Air- • State of the Art Technology kayak and paddleboard rentals; • Comprehensive technology and port and only minutes from popular • 39 breakouts poolside cabanas; full-service onsite IT and audiovisual attractions like Hollywood’s historic spa with fitness centers; onsite oceanfront Broadwalk and world-class • Strategically situated between Miami Int’l Airport and Fort Lauderdale Int’l Airport marina; convention center with Onsite Amenities shopping at Aventura Mall, Bal Har- comprehensive technology, Each of the resort’s 10 dining des- bour Shops or Las Olas Boulevard in • Spectacular outdoor venues featuring oceanfront views audiovisual, onsite catering tinations is rooted in strong culinary Fort Lauderdale. I&FMM

T H E D I P L OMAT B E AC H R E S ORT | 3 555 S OCEA N D RIVE | HOLLY WOOD, F L | 3 3 01 9 30 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT W W W. D I P LO M ATRE S ORT.C O M | C ONNE CT W I T H U S Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau vibrant and dynamic global hub, Beach, with service between Miami and Miami offers a stunning array of Orlando to follow soon. A creative venue options for even • Frost Science Museum the largest meeting needs, including The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum the new Miami Beach Convention of Science opened its doors to the Center, now open! public in May 2017 at its new home in Located in the heart of South Beach, downtown Miami’s Museum Park. The the new Miami Beach Convention Center 250,000-square-foot facility combines is a bright, glass-encased facility as a planetarium, aquarium and science innovative and tech-rich as it is beautiful. museum on one campus. Ileana Castillo AVP, Convention Sales In addition to the nearly 500,000 square feet of versatile exhibition ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES 701 Brickell Avenue, Suite 2700 space and more than 180,000 square Few places in the world deliver such Miami, FL 33131 feet of meeting space, the new Miami a thriving mix of international sophis- 305-539-3039 Beach Convention Center includes a tication, natural tropical beauty and FAX: 305-530-4276 60,000-square-foot grand ballroom, a authentic cultural diversity as Miami. [email protected] www.MiamiMeetings.com 20,000-square-foot junior ballroom and From picture-perfect weather, pristine 84 breakout rooms. beaches and top-rated attractions, to The space will feature a lavish hotels, eclectic dining and a terrace where attendees can thriving cultural scene, the city offers step out, mingle and soak up endless possibilities for entertainment the city’s signature sunshine and exploration. and ocean breeze. The new One of the best places to start is A MODERN Miami Beach Convention with the city’s diverse array of neighbor- Center is also environmen- hoods, where visitors are encouraged tally friendly and LEED to explore the deep, rich cultural roots MEETING Silver-certified. that make Miami such an incredible melting pot. Discover the heritage of WHAT’S NEW the Caribbean in Little Haiti or the Along with the new Miami Bahamian foundations in West Coconut SPACE Beach Convention Center, Grove. Immerse in the African-American Miami continues to reinvent experience of Historic Overtown or the Citywide Facts and Features itself with new hotels, meeting spaces region’s still-thriving Native American and enhanced infrastructure. Some community in South Dade. THAT ADAPTS Guest Rooms: 55,394 recent additions to the city include: When it comes to arts, Miami is also Hotels/Resorts: 426 • Brickell City Centre a burgeoning hotbed. Stroll through the With 500,000 square feet of modern, fl exible exhibit space, Meeting Space: Spanning 9.1 acres, Brickell City street arts district of Wynwood or visit 1.2 million square feet TO YOUR 84 breakout rooms and a 60,000 square foot ballroom, Centre includes a 352-room hotel, an one of the city’s fascinating museums, unlimited possibilities await at the Miami Beach Convention Special Amenities: In addition to open-air shopping center, two luxury such Perez Art Museum Miami or The Center. New space. New possibilities. Now open. the nearly 500,000 square feet of condo towers, two office buildings and Bass Museum of Art. Wherever you exhibition space and more than an entertainment center. look, cultural gems await to be found. 180,000 square feet of meeting BUSINESS. • Brightline Miami is also easy to get to, with Mi- space, the new Miami Beach Convention Center includes a The new express train service pro- ami International Airport (MIA) offering Learn more at MiamiMeetings.com 60,000-square-foot grand ballroom, vides intercity travel in Florida. In May, more than 400 flights from around the [email protected] I 800-933-8448 ext. 3071 a 20,000-square-foot junior Brightline began service connecting globe daily and serving more airlines than ballroom and 84 breakout rooms. Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm any other airport in the U.S. I&FMM

32 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 33 Like our coral reef, the beauty of a meeting is in the details.

At our legendary private club, meeting participants find inspiration amidst the unmatched beauty of our island retreat. Where camaraderie and productivity are Ocean Reef Club enhanced by our tropical ambience, exceptional amenities, impeccable service and noteworthy cean Reef, a private club at Consider the Eco-Kayak Scavenger attention to detail. Our recently built Carysfort Hall is the centerpiece of our 30,000 square feet the northernmost tip of Key Hunt, a very popular program among of available meeting space that also includes a state-of-the-art cooking school. OLargo, offers beautiful, mod- meeting attendees at Ocean Reef. Here, Amidst our charming surroundings you’ll also find: ern and functional meeting space that participants travel through mangroves • Over a dozen dining options • Fishing, diving and snorkeling perfectly complements the luxury and bird rookeries while admiring the • Tennis & Games Center • The Spa at Ocean Reef accommodations, distinctive dining and clear waters that show off nature’s amenities that routinely wow groups sea floor. To see how your participants can experience this private club contact your who meet there. Each team is given a map, a clue Personal Meetings Manager at 800.843.2730 or email [email protected] With 30,000 square feet of meeting to get to their next location, a card space, including both breakout rooms that shows them exactly what they Michelle Simpson, Executive Director of Conference Sales and flexible spaces, boardroom and a may see, a net and guidelines to find state-of-the-art cooking school, you’ll these objects. 35 Ocean Reef Drive, Suite 200 want to consider treating your group to Key Largo, FL 33037 this island paradise. PLANNING YOUR 800-843-2730 NEXT MEETING FAX: 305-367-5909 PRESERVING NATURE For meeting planners looking for [email protected] www.oceanreef.com Ocean Reef Club is settled among a distinctive Florida Keys destination, one of the most beautiful, yet Ocean Reef Club is like no other and fragile, environments in the less than an hour’s drive from Miami world — 2,500 lush tropical International Airport. acres just a few miles from Aside from the many teambuilding the most extensive living opportunities, groups will find a variety coral reef in North America. of eclectic meeting spaces indoors and Because of its unique loca- out, including Buccaneer Island, which tion, Ocean Reef not only features a saltwater lagoon, sandy beach dedicates itself to environ- and two oceanfront pools. mental preservation, but It’s the perfect setting for cocktail partners with organizations receptions, dinners and theme parties; like the nonprofit Coral Res- 30,000 square feet of meeting space toration Foundation (CRF), that blends contemporary comfort with who create offshore nurseries advanced capabilities. and restoration programs for As well, Ocean Reef has the distinc- Citywide Facts and Features threatened coral species. tion of having two golf courses — a Guest Rooms/Suites: 275 Through this partnership, groups rarity in the Florida Keys — 10 tennis accommodations meeting at Ocean Reef can take snor- courts, six pickleball courts, salon and keling or SCUBA diving trips to the spa, myriad restaurants and lounges, Meeting Space: 30,000 square feet nursery and help plant coral on the reef. and newly renovated accommodations, including oceanview rooms and suites, Special Services & Amenities: spacious villas and beautiful homes. Ocean Reef Club is an exclusive TEAMBUILDING island retreat with natural beauty Whether your team goes to see the Plus, consider chartering a boat to and exceptional amenities, famous Christ of the Abyss statue at enjoy some reef fishing a few miles creating an unsurpassed the coral reef or attends the cooking offshore, where you’ll come face-to-face backdrop for business meetings, school, which can hold demonstrations with almost 600 species of fish. retreats, incentive travel for up to 100 people, teambuilding Contact Ocean Reef Club at and special celebrations. at Ocean Reef Club has the feel of a www.meetingsatoceanreef.com or once-in-a-lifetime experience. (800) 843-2730. I&FMM

34 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT

ORC48188-Ins-Fin-Mtgs-mgt.indd 1 9/11/18 1:58 PM Sea Island The Broadmoor teeped in golf tradition, Sea Island The existing Center continues estled in the foothills below Hall to extraordinary, intimate spaces is home to three championship to serve as one of the finest instruc- Pikes Peak on 5,000 stunning sprinkled throughout the resort, it Sgolf courses, including Seaside and tional centers in the country, teaching Nacres, The Broadmoor is the has played host to countless confer- Plantation, site of the PGA TOUR’s RSM every aspect of the game to all skill longest-running consecutive winner ences and special events since first Classic, hosted each fall by Davis Love III, levels, from juniors to Open and of the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star opening in 1918. Sea Island touring professional, two-time Masters Champions. Championship and AAA Five-Diamond awards. Here, For a complete change of pace, Ryder Cup Captain and 2017 inductee golf courses, exceptional resort facili- authentic Western experiences combine groups of up to 60 can stay and meet at into the World Golf Hall of Fame. ties, family-friendly atmosphere and with European elegance and a setting Cloud Camp, where 22 well-appointed Created in 1928 by Walter Travis, top-notch instruction have combined that inspires at every turn. lodge rooms and cabins with spec- Plantation was redesigned in 1998 by to attract more than two dozen touring tacular 360-degree vistas are com- David Furnish Pepper Dombroski Director of Sales and Marketing Rees Jones and features ocean views and professionals who live and/or train at The Broadmoor Turns 100 plemented by the 1,500-square-foot Director of Sales plentiful lakes. Created in 1929 by Colt & Sea Island. In addition to Davis Love To celebrate The Broadmoor’s Overlook, a fully equipped, A/V-ready 100 Cloister Drive Alison, Seaside was redesigned in 1999 III, the list of local residents includes Centennial, a fresh, new look was meeting space. 1 Lake Avenue Sea Island, GA 31561 by Tom Fazio. With 15 holes flanked by Zach Johnson, Matt Kuchar, Harris unveiled. The rooms and suites in Colorado Springs, CO 80906 888-857-7519 views of the ocean, sound and marsh, English, Brian Harman and Patton the historic Broadmoor Main sport a Adventure Comes Naturally 800-633-7711 FAX: 912-638-5803 Seaside is Sea Island’s signature course. Kizzire, among others. color palate to complement those of A spirit of adventure is part of any FAX: 719-577-5779 [email protected] www.broadmoor.com www.seaisland.com Retreat Course, originally designed by Joe Broadmoor West. The lobby of Main, Broadmoor experience. Set off on a Lee, was renovated in 2001 by An Overview while maintaining all its historic aspects, nature-infused horseback Davis and Mark Love and fea- Since 1928, Sea Island has been is now spacious. The grand staircase ride, hiking or mountain tures a unique, dramatic layout. known as an exceptional destination to the mezzanine level floats ethereally biking trip; enjoy champi- appealing to those who appreciate upward, unencumbered by surrounding onship golf or luxuriate in Golf and Lodge gracious service and heartfelt hospitality. walls, and comfortable chairs and a sofa the Forbes Five-Star spa. Enhancements With four Forbes Five-Star expe- that frame two new fireplaces. Experience guided fly-fishing Located between Seaside riences — The Cloister at Sea Island, The Golf Club celebrates the or instruction, rock-climbing and Plantation, The Lodge at The Lodge at Sea Island, The Spa at Sea 100-year legacy of the tournaments and instruction and falconry, or Sea Island is in the midst of Island and the Georgian Room restau- golfing greats that shaped the history of fly over wilderness canyons a $25 million enhancement rant — it is the only resort in the world our storied courses. with The Broadmoor Soaring program, which includes the to have received four Forbes Five-Star The entryway welcomes guests and Adventure zip line tour’s 10 addition of recently opened Awards for 10 consecutive years. members in exquisite style. The hallways lines and two rope and cable Driftwood Course, an 18-hole The only U.S. resort to host a G-8 are lined with cases that tell the story of suspension bridges that end putting course. Six new cot- Summit of world leaders, Sea Island pro- how golf came to be, from course de- at the base of Seven Falls. tages with a total of 14 sleeping vides exceptional settings and service signers Donald Ross and Robert Trent Citywide Facts and Features rooms, an oceanfront pool and pool for conferences and executive retreats. Jones Sr. to the legendary professionals Tastefully Yours Citywide Facts and Features Guest Rooms: 390 house debut ahead of the 2018 RSM Guest accommodations are avail- who called The Broadmoor home. With 20 restaurants, cafes and lounges, Guest Rooms/Suites: 784 Classic in November. In early 2019, a new able at The Cloister, a Mediterranean Even the dining experience is new including Colorado’s only Forbes Meeting Space: 40,000 rooms including 115 suites 17,000-square-foot Golf Performance masterpiece; The Lodge, reminiscent with a reimagined restaurant now called Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond square feet (interior) and 44 cottage rooms Center opens with six instruction and of an English country manor; or The The Grille, with a menu filled with Penrose Room, The Broadmoor has Meeting Rooms: 23 Meeting Space: 185,000 club fitting bays, cutting-edge putting Inn at Sea Island. A cottage option is Broadmoor classic cuisine and featuring a wide variety of dining options from square feet Special Services & Amenities: studio, full-service golf club workshop, also available. Located on the Georgia an impressive and expansive new bar. which to choose. Herbs and vegetables Three championship golf Special Services & Amenities: gym with locker rooms, retail area, and coast midway between Jacksonville, are grown at Broadmoor Farms, and More than 60 indoor and outdoor courses, the country’s finest Golf indoor and outdoor meeting and event Florida (JAX, 60 minutes) and Savannah, Meeting Venues meats, fish and fruits come from ranchers Performance Center, 5 miles of event venues and an award- spaces. Phil Kenyon, recently named Georgia (SAV, 75 minutes), Sea Island With 185,000 square feet of flexible and growers nearby. private beach, Beach Club, five winning audio/visual service. Three pools, tennis, squash, Yacht Director of Putting Instruction and one of is served by two additional airports, space, unparalleled accommodations The Broadmoor also offers a diverse, mountain Wilderness Experience Club, Shooting School, sailing, the most sought-after putting instructors including Brunswick (BQK, 20 minutes) and activities, The Broadmoor wows creative culinary experience for banquet properties. 20 restaurants, cafes water sports, hunting and more. in the world, is designing the new putting and the private McKinnon St. Simons even before an event is underway. functions, all designed to please even and lounges. Spa, golf, tennis, zip line, pickleball, falconry. studio for teaching and putter fitting. Airport (SSI, 10 minutes). I&FMM From the 60,000-square-foot Broadmoor the most discerning palate. I&FMM

36 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT OCTOBER 2018 37 Recipient of the Forbes Five-Star award for 58 consecutive years, The Broadmoor is a strikingly Two exceptional resorts. Now one family. unique destination for memorable meetings and events. The Broadmoor has off ered guests an incredible way to experience the unique gateway to the American West for nearly a century.

Meeting Space— Unique With 185,000 square feet of sophisticated event space, The Broadmoor understands the unique needs and attention required to create memorable, successful meetings. From boardrooms and Broadmoor Hall’s 60,000 square feet at the main campus to Cloud Camp’s Overlook at 9,200-foot elevation, we have the space to make your meeting memorable.

COLORADO SPRINGS • COLORADO SEA ISLAND • GEORGIA Activities— For Everyone Meeting attendees can hike scenic trails, experience horseback riding and mountain biking, or archery. Broadmoor Outfi tters off ers expert instruction in fl y fi shing, falconry, zip lining and much more. Championship golf courses, and our Forbes Five-Star Spa provide rest and reward.

Accommodations— Variety The 784 guest rooms, suites, cottages, brownstones, and The Broadmoor Estate House feature the elegant touches and amenities at the main campus. Provide adventure at one of the three Broadmoor Wilderness Experiences: Cloud Camp, The Ranch at Emerald Valley, and The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp.

Where extraordinary facilities, activities and Southern hospitality blend to create exceptional meetings. Come see why we are the only resort in the world to receive four Forbes Five Stars for ten consecutive years and the only one in the U.S. chosen to host a G8 Summit.

Meeting Space— Flexibility With more than 40,000 square feet of indoor space and an island full of outdoor gathering options, Sea Island venues range from boardrooms to ballrooms, accommodating 5 to 500 people. From food and décor to Recognized a total of 251 times with Forbes Five-Star technical expertise, our seasoned team brings creativity and attention to and AAA Five-Diamond awards. detail to every conference, executive retreat, and customized meeting. For 190 years, The Broadmoor and Sea Island have provided distinctive, magnifi cent settings and extraordinary experiences for groups ranging from intimate board meetings to trade shows. Each Activities— Variety Sea Island provides an extensive array of options for your meeting resort features world-class golf, dining, spa, and outdoor adventures to enhance your event. With attendees including customized team building activities, outdoor both of these iconic properties in a 100-year family trust, our guarantee is that while the setting will experiences such as fi shing, water sports, shooting school and falconry, vary, the consistent quality of meetings and meticulous attention to detail never will. a 65,000-square-foot spa and fi tness center, three championship golf courses, and the nation’s fi nest Golf Performance Center. We invite you to call to begin planning your next event.

HISTORY • TRADITION • SERVICE • EXCELLENCE Accommodations— Choice Our 390 rooms and suites ensure we have a room type to meet your needs from The Cloister, nestled between the Black Banks River and the Atlantic Ocean to The Lodge, surrounded by two of our golf courses to The Inn, our select-service property. Or for those seeking outdoor 877.595.9467 • www.broadmoor.com 888.857.7519 • www.seaisland.com adventure, we off er Broadfi eld, our 5,800-acre sporting club. AN ALL-NEW PERSPECTIVE ON MEETINGS AND EVENTS Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin n 2017, the Walt Disney World Swan meeting and other awards, the Walt and Dolphin Resort underwent a Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort Icomprehensive renovation of the is a nationally respected and recognized Walt Disney World Dolphin lobby. This leader in the convention resort arena. $12 million redesign was the final stage of the largest makeover in the resort’s Meetings & Events history. The new lobby has been com- The resort offers more than pletely transformed into a sleek contem- 331,000 square feet of meeting space, porary space and features new dining 86 breakout rooms and 2,270 guest and beverage options, as well as more rooms and suites. Gino Marasco Director of Sales & Marketing space for attendees to socialize. When it comes to the business of “This lobby marked the final piece of meetings, the award-winning team 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd. an exciting transformation for the Walt is highly regarded for their ability to Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort,” exceed expectations. Meetings are sup- 407-934-4290 says General Manager Fred Sawyers. ported by an award-winning banquet, FAX: 407-934-4880 “This space is designed specifically to catering and culinary team that delivers All-New Walt Disney World Dolphin Lobby [email protected] www.swandolphinmeetings.com cater to today’s guests and offer an customized solutions with a passion for inviting place where they can each customer. The Walt Disney World Dolphin lobby has undergone a $12 million re-design, the final stage of a $150 million come together to relax, net- Whether your event is in the ball- renovation project, the largest makeover in the resort’s history. It has completely transformed into a sleek, work and grab something to room, on the beach, on the causeway or contemporary space featuring new food and beverage options and offer an inviting area for guests to relax or eat or drink.” in one of our signature restaurants, the network. A recipient of the prestigious Meetings & Conventions Hall of Fame Award, the Walt Disney World Swan The centerpiece of the creative opportunities abound. For the new lobby is a dazzling adventurous, nothing beats a private and Dolphin is a nationally respected and recognized leader in the convention resort arena. The resort offers custom crystal chandelier, event in the theme parks to add that more than 331,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, 86 meeting rooms, and 2,270 guest rooms and suites which feature which sparkles above the magical touch while supporting your the Westin Heavenly® Bed. Attendees can also relax in the luxurious Mandara Spa, indulge in one of our 17 fountain. Other new features meeting theme. world-class restaurants and lounges or enjoy our unique Disney Differences. include an exciting new The resort is recognized as a top geometric ceiling, increased “Foodie” destination in Orlando, fea- lighting, all-new contempo- turing 17 world-class restaurants and rary décor and furnishings, lounges, including the famed celebrity with more than double the Chef Todd English’s bluezoo, Il Mulino amount of seating. New York Trattoria and Shula’s Steak Citywide Facts and Features The lobby redesign is the final stage House, which serves the best beef Guest Rooms/Suites: 2,270 of a $150 million project which also money can buy. includes the transformation of all 2,270 The resort is situated in the heart of Meeting Space: 331,000 guest rooms, along with upgrades to the the Walt Disney World Resort, within square feet hotel’s meeting space. The renovated footsteps of both Epcot, Disney’s Holly- Award-Winning Dining All-New Guest Rooms And Suites Impressive Meeting Venues Special Services & Amenities: guest rooms feature all the latest tech- wood Studios and Disney’s Boardwalk. 86 Meeting & Breakout Rooms nology, including large HD TVs and Complimentary transportation is pro- Onsite DMC & AV Services all-new upgraded furniture centered on vided throughout the resort, and guests 17 Restaurants and Lounges the famous Westin Heavenly Bed. The enjoy the Extra Magic Hours Benefit design continues into a completely new and FASTPASS+ access. On property, bathroom, featuring residential-style guests can enjoy one of the resorts’ five vanities and a backlit mirror on iridescent pools, two health clubs, tennis courts or 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd. glass tiles. indulge at the luxurious Balinese-inspired Lake Buena Vista, FL, 32830 A recipient of the many prestigious Mandara Spa. I&FMM 800.524.4939 | 407.934.4290 swandolphinmeetings.com

40 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT CAESARS FORUM, a 550,000-square-foot conference center, will have direct access to 8,500 hotel rooms at Caesars’ nearby resorts when it opens in 2020. For the Fun of It Las Vegas and Reno: Memorable Meetings, Natural Wonders By Steve Winston hen a few businessmen stood outpost, but now also a great meeting finished at the end of 2020, it will add in the Nevada desert near a destination — with both bright lights 1.4 million square feet to the center, Wmilitary base just after World and perhaps America’s most beautiful 600,000 of which will be for exhibition War II, they saw what others didn’t see. alpine lake. space. Phase Three will be a total reno- Where others saw a hot desert with vation of the facility, to be completed by a small town and a base with dwindling LAS VEGAS 2023. When that phase is done, Las Ve- post-War personnel, they saw a gleam- The big news here is the upcoming gas will have the most technologically ing city rising out of the sand. Where expansion of the Las Vegas Convention advanced convention center in America. others saw financial folly, they saw Center. The Las Vegas Convention and The ARIA Resort & Casino has just YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS. fortunes being made. Where others Visitors Authority has approved a nearly completed its own enhancements, add- saw dusty, windswept streets, they saw $1 billion project to expand and reno- ing 200,000 square feet to the original grand hotels and bright lights. vate the center. That project is Phase 300,000 of meeting space. These spaces (866) 770– 7268 | wynnmeetings.com Truth be told, they probably didn’t Two of an improvement bring the desert inside, with native trees foresee Las Vegas becoming one of the plan for the Conven- and plants and plenty of natural light. world’s great meeting places. But there’s tion Center District. With 4,004 guest rooms, it can no disputing that title now. In 2017, When this phase is “It’s difficult to accommodate almost any group. there were 19,767 corporate meetings find the volume Attendees can choose from and conventions in Las Vegas, making among 16 restaurants and eight that “folly” of a city one of the world’s of meeting bars/lounges, and they’ll be sur- great meeting destinations. space — and, rounded by interesting artworks. People like to meet in destinations accordingly, the Caesars Palace, of course, where they can have fun after the meet- selection — that is a longtime Las Vegas land- ings end for the day. And many planners mark, as is its casino. Its 300,000 say their meetings in Las Vegas are very Las Vegas has, square feet of meeting space is productive because the attendees are in any other away from the casino, but easily happy to be there — and invigorated destination.” accessible from anywhere in the by the number of after-meeting options. Stacy Weber hotel. In addition, there’s a 4,100- The same thing has happened to the Meeting & Event Manager seat auditorium and a wonderful Reno/Sparks/Lake Tahoe region to Moss Adams LLP non-traditional space at the 4.5-acre the north, once a little-known frontier Seattle, WA Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis.

42 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT In July, Caesars Entertainment Cor- Mandalay Bay casino. At the Four Sea- all-suite resort. There are four floors of poration broke ground on CAESARS sons, there’s 38,300 square feet of meeting space and 31 modern meeting FORUM, a $375-million, 550,000-square- technologically advanced meeting rooms here, offering great flexibility in foot meetings facility tagged as “the space in 15 function rooms and on- both design and functionality, and the convention center of the future.” It site meeting staff to help out, if Mandalay Bay Convention Center will be finished in 2020, with direct needed. Here, attendees en- “We is available for larger groups. access to 8,500 hotel rooms at Caesars’ joy dramatic views of the needed a The stylish Skyfall Lounge nearby resorts. desert, world-renowned big hotel like the offers artisan cocktails The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas performers, a five-star and a great view of the is a combination of striking modern spa and a steakhouse MGM because we city, and the Delano Art design and luxurious accommodations. that’s considered one had ... 350 different Series brings striking There’s great diversity in both the size of America’s best. sessions in breakout artworks to Las Vegas. and the design of the various meet- The Hilton Lake MGM Grand is ing spaces here, which means there’s Las Vegas Resort rooms, 23 of which were the largest hotel in a configuration for every need. Ones & Spa is actually in concurrent at any the United States, like The Chelsea, with 40,000 square Henderson, in the given time.” with 6,852 guest feet of attention-getting “industrial Las Vegas suburbs. rooms. The big news chic” design, help encourage attendees’ It looks more like it’s Linda Sinnott is the upcoming imaginations to run free. in Italy, though, with Associate Director, addition of 250,000 Meetings & Conferences Stacy Weber is meeting and event European architec- square feet of confer- Association of International manager at Moss Adams LLP, one of the ture and pastel colors, ence space later this Certified Professional largest public accounting firms in Amer- with some guest rooms year, connecting to its Accountants ica. She brought 800 attendees to the situated right over the lake. present 600,000. Two doz- Durham, NC Cosmopolitan in June for the Annual There’s 100,000 square feet en eateries run the gamut of Industry Group Conference. of meeting space, from board- cuisines and cultures and coun- “We chose Las Vegas for several rea- rooms to ballrooms. And this hotel is a tries, and feature some of the world’s sons,” she says. “For one thing, it’s easy member of Connect+, a group of Hilton top chefs. There are 14 nightclubs, bars to get there from anywhere. For another, hotels providing advanced meeting- and virtual reality experiences, along it’s difficult to find the volume of meet- planning and support services. with renowned entertainers. M Resort Spa & Casino is also in The Strip’s newest hotel/casino is Henderson, with 390 guest rooms Park MGM, which just opened in May, and 92,000 square feet in multiple in what was once the Monte Carlo. It configurations known for their great boasts a unique sort of urban-garden views through floor-to-ceiling win- design. There are 2,700 guest rooms dows. There’s additional space in some and 77,000 square feet of meeting interesting non-traditional venues — space, along with an excellent spa, three among them the Hostile Grape Wine pools, live shows by celebrities such as Cellar. Spa Mio has an excellent reputa- Lady Gaga, a Starbucks and a distinctive tion, and it includes a state-of-the-art French steakhouse called Bavette’s. fitness center. The resort has eight eat- Tropicana Las Vegas – a DoubleTree Credit: M Resort,Credit: Spa & Casino eries and five bars. by Hilton has won numerous “Best of There are more than 400 wines by the bottle and live music to enjoy at Hostile Grape Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Las Vegas” honors. There’s 100,000 Wine Cellar at M Resort Spa & Casino. is a favorite for big meetings because square feet of indoor and outdoor the Mandalay Bay Convention Center meeting space, including a conference ing space — and, accordingly, the selec- is one of the largest meeting facilities center for 2,500 people. Sitting right tion — that Las Vegas has, in any other in America, with 2.1 million square on the Strip, this hotel has a pool with $375 MILLION CONFERENCE CENTER destination. The Cosmopolitan staff was feet. This resort is known for its shows, waterfalls, a notable spa, a newly reno- also very helpful with the planning and including Cirque du Soleil; Shark Reef vated casino, a nonstop run of great OPENING 2020 IN LAS VEGAS onsite. I had never worked with that Aquarium, in which you walk through a shows and even a beach club. large a group before ... but they do it glass tunnel; a 12,000-seat Events Cen- The Mirage has a convention center quite often. This was our first paperless ter and “Mandalay Bay Beach,” with real with 170,000 square feet, and every event; we used an app for the confer- sand and cabanas. The resort’s guest event space is on ground level for easy ence, and registration was online.” rooms have recently been remodeled. access. There’s a strong sustainability The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas Right next to Mandalay Bay is its ethic here, and the property has won affords attendees access to the nearby sister property, Delano Las Vegas, an several awards for it. The resort includes

44 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT ballrooms, Sands Expo Halls and other an onsite meeting services staff and a very unique spaces, the Venetian offers staffed business center, a full-service a whopping 2.25 million square feet restaurant, a fitness center and a spa. and a full production team, along with Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Ca- more than 30 restaurants. sino has the perfect location for both Both hotels feature canals and business and pleasure — adjacent to gondola rides and Medieval Italian ar- the Las Vegas Convention Center and chitecture. The Palazzo has a dozen in- a block from the Strip. It also has some The MGM Grand is expanding its conference novative restaurants, top performers, of the best meeting/convention fa- center by 250,000 square feet. stylish nightclubs and entertainment cilities in the city, with 225,000 square Siegfried & Roy’s Secret Garden and Dol- venues, several pools, a beach club and feet of recently renovated space, and phin Habitat, which boasts bottlenose upscale shops. the 700,000-square-foot Paradise Event dolphins, white lions and tigers, and The former Mandarin Oriental is Center — as well as a dozen restau- leopards. The hotel also has imaginative now the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, rants that will take your attendees on a concepts like Yoga With the Dolphins. and the hotel reflects the luxury and so- culinary trip around the world. At Vdara Hotel & Spa, attendees can phistication for which that nameplate is One Las Vegas company, Wynn meet in 16,500 square feet of space in- known. The 389 guest rooms have floor- Resorts, has more Forbes Travel Guide corporating natural elements such as to-ceiling windows, providing memo- Five-Star awards than any other inde- wood, sandstone and pebbles. After- rable views, and the 17,028 square feet pendent hotel company on Earth. One ward, they can relax and refresh at the of modern meeting spaces have huge of its award-winners is Encore at Wynn Espa Spa, which was awarded a five-star windows letting in natural light that Las Vegas, the epitome of luxury in a rating by Forbes Travel Guide, and have enhances both energy and productivity. town renowned for luxury hotels. items delivered to their rooms by ro- Away from the Strip, with a more With 2,716 guest rooms in the Wynn bots. The hotel has 1,495 guest rooms, relaxing vibe, the Westin Lake Las and 2,034 in Encore, its sister property 14 eateries and an onsite Starbucks. Vegas Resort & Spa sits, of course, on next-door, there’s also 260,000 square Gary McLain is vice president of Re- the lake. The 44,630 square feet come feet of interestingly designed meeting source Management Services, Inc., a complete with a meetings team to han- space between them. This combined California company that produces edu- dle every detail. Afterward, you might resort property can also claim more cational conferences and networking get in some golf at the Jack Nicklaus four-star restaurants than any indepen- events for the collections industry. dent resort in North America. He brought 500 people to a net- Among the two hotels, there working event at the Red Rock are more types of entertainment — Casino Resort & Spa, just outside from the Moody Blues to dueling of town late last year. pianos — than time to see them “We’ve been staging events in all, in a variety of themed venues, Las Vegas for the past 20 years,” plus unique experiences, such as says McClain, “and our attendance “La Reve – The Dream,” billed as a at these meetings is always at least “thrilling acrobatic fantasy of water 10 percent higher than anywhere and fire.” And there are two world- else we’ve been. We chose the Red class spas, luxury shopping and Rock this time precisely because fitness facilities. it’s not on the Strip ... we wanted Vegas Las Wynn at Encore Credit: You don’t have to sell Linda Attendees can unwind poolside at the Wynn Las Vegas, one to keep our people together. But, Sinnott on Las Vegas. She’s the of the many amenities it shares with its sister property, Encore. wherever you are in Las Vegas, associate director of meetings and you can never really go wrong. There’s course next door, or work out in the conferences for AICPA, the Association so much to see and do. If you’re looking fitness center. Later, you can “work out” of International Certified Professional for healthy attendance figures ... this is any post-workout kinks at the presti- Accountants. She brought nearly 4,000 the place to get them. And, we’re going gious g Aveda Spa Lago. attendees from the American Institute back for the next two years.” Just one block from the Strip, the of Certified Public Accountants to the The Venetian and Palazzo are two Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa is none- MGM Grand in June for the organiza- luxurious adjoining towers under the theless an oasis of quiet luxury amid tion’s annual meeting. same management (the Sands Corp.), the hustle and bustle of this fascinating “This was our second consecutive and visitors to each have use of both city. There are 826 guest rooms, as well year at MGM,” Sinnott says. “And the facilities. Meeting facilities are in the as 29,629 square feet of bright meeting reason we returned was obvious — Las Venetian. Between the meeting rooms, space with interesting art, along with Vegas generates larger attendance. And

46 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT we needed a big hotel like the MGM alpine lake in America) or rafting Reno’s are two other ballrooms and several because we had — believe it or not Truckee River. Reno is also a blossom- meeting spaces. — 350 different sessions in breakout ing cultural hub, evidenced by the Eldorado Resort Casino draws acts rooms, 23 of which were concurrent at eye-catching murals now appearing on such as Culture Club and the B-52s to any given time.” downtown buildings. its Reno property. It attracts meetings, The organization’s opening session The largest meeting/convention too, with amenities such as its 5th-floor was held at the Events Center and space in all Reno casino resorts be- outdoor pool and hot tub, fitness cen- among the speakers was David longs to the Grand Sierra Resort and ter, upscale shops like Swarovski Crys- Gergen of CNN. Casino with 200,000 square feet and tal, a business center, free Wi-Fi and an “We worked with HelmsBriscoe to 1,900 guest rooms. The list of ameni- array of nightclubs. Nor does it hurt negotiate with the property,” Sinnott ties is just as impressive and that Eldorado has a flexible ball- says, “and the CVA (Las Vegas Conven- includes a full-service spa, “Wherever room, meeting spaces and a tion and Visitors Authority) gave us fitness center, mini-golf, 25th-floor boardroom with some valuable insights and information. go-karts, “skydiving” you are in breathtaking views. We also use technology whenever we experience, bowling al- Las Vegas, you Reno also has Atlan- can. We used Cvent technological tools ley, movie theater and can never really go tis Casino Resort Spa, for registration, conference apps and an indoor simulated an AAA Four Diamond a content management system, and golf course, along wrong. There’s so resort with floor-to- the majority of our sessions were with great views of much to see and do.” ceiling windows for live online.” the mountains. Gary McLain great views of city The Hyatt Re- Vice President and mountains. RENO/SPARKS/TAHOE gency Lake Tahoe Re- Resource Management Atlantis is the only In a contest to name Reno’s down- sort, Spa and Casino Services, Inc. resort directly attached town arch in 1929, a Sacramento man also offers spectacular Santa Fe to the Reno-Sparks Con- entered the winner — “Biggest Little views. To get to the lake, Springs, CA vention Center, and its own City in the World.” This is one little city just walk outside your door. facilities include two ballrooms, with a lot of the advantages of larger The four-star hotel has modern, 22 meeting rooms and a boardroom, cities. It’s a place, too, with one foot in airy rooms, some with fireplaces, and all with state-of-the-art technology. the Old West and the other in the moun- its 80,000 square feet includes the only With good restaurants and 10 lounges/ tains surrounding it and in the magnifi- lakeside ballroom in Tahoe. There’s bars, your attendees certainly won’t go cent alpine lake in the middle of them. golf, a sporting goods shop and free hungry or thirsty. Reno, the neighboring city of Sparks, shuttle to the shops and restaurants of Small wonder that Las Vegas and and Lake Tahoe are popular meeting Incline Village. Reno/Sparks/Tahoe attract so many destinations because they’re in the The city of Sparks boasts the Nug- financial and insurance meetings. big leagues when it comes to host- get Casino Resort, with an upgraded Planners know they’ll persuade more ing them. The destination is diverse, it meeting space (110,000 square feet), attendees here. boasts a colorful history, it has a wide new casino games, beautiful new lobby They know there’s exciting outdoor range of meeting hotels and resorts, and a fresh “mountain-lodge” feel to recreation available almost every day and it has the 600,000-square-foot the whole place. The fitness center, of the year. They know there are breath- Reno-Sparks Convention Center, with too, has been upgraded. There are taking panoramas everywhere you look. everything on one level. seven award-winning restaurants and They know there are more four- and MGM RESORTS HAS MORE CONVENTION SPACE There are also 10 impressive casino- an onsite Starbucks. There’s big-name five-star and Four- and Five-Diamond resort hotels, each between 800 and entertainment, too, with performers resorts here than just about anywhere 2,000 rooms, and each with meeting such as Michael Bolton, Wayne Newton else in America. They know their at- IN LAS VEGAS THAN ALL THE CONVENTION space up to 200,000 square feet. and John Fogerty. tendees can have dinner every night in In addition, most of these resorts Surrounded by the mountains and a different award-winning restaurant, SPACE IN MANHATTAN COMBINED. are within minutes of the Reno-Tahoe lakes of Northern Nevada, Peppermill followed by performances by world- International Airport. Reno Hotel Resort is an environmen- famous entertainers. Reno-Tahoe has a stunning natural tally conscious hotel — and, with 1,621 They know, too, that their attendees MGM Resorts is leading the way by continuing to expand their already robust meetings and conventions footprint with landscape, offering meeting attendees guest rooms, a good one for meetings. will be genuinely excited about going innovative and collaborative spaces designed to accommodate client growth. ARIA, Park MGM, Mandalay Bay and an impressive range of outdoor recre- This hotel is a mixture of modern to Las Vegas or Reno/Tahoe. MGM Grand will debut an additional 850,000 square feet of space, topping off their Las Vegas citywide presence at ational opportunities. With 300 days American design and Classic European Which means, of course, they four million square feet. MGM Resorts continues to lead the way in “meeting” expectations for groups of all sizes. of sunshine, they can experience the furnishings. It boasts 15 bars/lounges know their meetings will be produc- fun year-round, whether it’s paddle- and 10 restaurants. The Tuscany Ball- tive ones. What else could a planner boarding in North Lake Tahoe (largest room has 62,000 square feet, and there ask for? I&FMM Book your Vegas convention today. For more information, please contact Michael Dominguez at [email protected].

48 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT NEW MEETING Corporate Ladder SPACE THAT DEFIES CONVENTION. Credit: Discover The Palm Beaches/Moya Photography Beaches/Moya Palm The Discover Credit: AGÜERO-DUPLÁ SAIGHAL SQUITIERI JACKSON GONZALEZ Associated Luxury Hotels Interna- manager for the Ocean Edge tional (ALHI) announced three new Resort & Conference Center in additions to its global sales team: Brewster, Massachusetts. Daniel Agüero-Duplá, director of global sales; Divya Saighal, direc- Discover The Palm Beaches With a $40 million expansion, Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate now features new tor of sales, south GSO region; has appointed Mike (“MJ”) Christine Squitieri, director of Jackson as its new senior indoor and outdoor meeting space, event space, studio suites, a market-style restaurant sales, northeast GSO region. Most director, group sales. Jackson and expanded pool areas—including Orlando’s only resort wave pool. recently, Agüero-Duplá served as joins DTPB with more than associate director of sales at Hotel 20 years of experience in Café Royal in London, and Saighal hospitality and sales manage- served as director of housing at ment. Prior to this, he was a GUEST ROOMS: 862 EM2 Sports. Prior to joining ALHI, national sales manager with SCHWARTZ WILSON SUITES: 71 Squitieri was the national sales Destination DC. Fontainebleau Miami Beach an- TOTAL MEETING SPACE: 248,111 nounces the promotion of Louis LARGEST MEETING SPACE: 28,800 Gonzalez to director of group sales. U.S. Postal Service MEETING ROOMS: 48 Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation Prior to Fontainebleau Miami Beach, 1. Publication Title: Insurance & Financial Meetings Management THEATER CAP: 3,200 2. Publication Number: 012-991 Gonzalez held sales and convention 3. Filing Date: September 28, 2018 BANQUET CAP: 2,400 4. Issue Frequency: Bi-Monthly operation positions at several 5. Number of Issues Published Annually: 6 CLASSROOM CAP: 2,000 6. Annual Subscription Price: $65.00 Florida resorts. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Offi ce of Publication: 2700 North Military Trail, Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 Contact Person: Harvey Grotsky Telephone: 561-989-0600 ext. 106 8. Complete Mailing Address or General Business Offi ce of Publisher: 2700 North Military Trail, Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 David Schwartz has joined Haven 9. Full Names and Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor: Publisher: Harvey Grotsky, Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 North Military Trail, Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa as Editor: Harvey Grotsky, Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 North Military Trail, Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 Managing Editor: Bonnie Schultz, 2700 North Military Trail, Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 director of group and incentive sales. MEETING SPACE ACCOMMODATIONS RECREATION AND AMENITIES 10. Owner: Coastal Communications Corporation, 2700 North Military Trail, Suite 120, Boca Raton, FL 33431-6394 — Harvey Grotsky 100% 11. Bondholders: None Schwartz has spent more than 30 The Osceola Conference Center now With 862 total guest rooms, ChampionsGate is home to 36 holes 12. Tax Status: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months 13. Publication Title: Insurance & Financial Meetings Management years in the incentive travel industry features six new flexible breakout groups have a range of choices of Greg Norman designed Golf and the 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: August 2018 and has represented some of the Average Number Copies Each Number Copies of Single Issue rooms with a fresh, sleek design, from the deluxe and premier David Leadbetter Golf Academy World 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Controlled Issue During Preceding 12 months Published Nearest to Filing Date finest hotel brands in the Caribbean a. Total Number of Copies (net press run) 6,000 6,000 and a 6,500-square foot Grand accommodations, luxury two and Headquarters. In addition to superb b1. Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 3,801 3,810 and Southern U.S. b2. In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541 0 0 Salon, designed for special events three bedroom villas, and the all golf, guests enjoy 15 sprawling acres b3. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other 0 0 Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS® and weddings, highlighted by a new Sunset Lodge and Suites, a new of pools and recreation highlighted by Requested Distribution Requested Legitimate Paid and/or Paid Legitimate b4. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS 0 0 Vanessa Wilson has been named c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)) 3,801 3,810 Terrace and Patio that offers groups three-story building comprised of Orlando’s only resort wave pool. d1. Outside County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541 2,079 2,072 the director of sales and marketing at d2. In-County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541 0 0 the option of an event lawn, fire pit 93 spacious, upscale studio suites Ten on-site restaurants and a d3. 0 0 Hilton Washington DC National Mall.

Distribution Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail Nonrequested Nonrequested d4. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail 0 0 Previously, Wilson served as the and promenade, ideal for hosting and connecting guest rooms. signature Mokara Spa round out e. Total Nonrequested Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3), and (4)) 2,079 2,072 f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and e) 5,880 5,882 director of sales and marketing at the g. Copies not Distributed 120 118 outdoor evening events. the resort’s amenities. h. Total (Sum of 15f and g) 6,000 6,000 Hilton Alexandria Mark Center and i. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (15c divided by f times 100) 64.6% 64.8% 16. Electronic Copy Circulation N/A the Hilton Washington, DC North 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required and will be printed in the October 2018 issue. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or owner (Signed): Harvey Grotsky, Publisher/Owner Date: 9/28/2018 Gaithersburg Hotel. I&FMM

OmniHotels.com/Meetings • Group Sales: 407-238-6526 50 OCTOBER 2018 INSURANCE & FINANCIAL MEETINGS MANAGEMENT Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2017 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. 17-26872