2009 Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide

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2009 DIRECTORY

&Destinations

TM

Planner Guide

F o r A s s o c i a t i o n & C o r p o r a t e M e e ting Planners

Convention Center Lists: 5 Hot Green Venues 5 Hot F&B Departments Pages 4-5

IndustryView: Show of Shows Pages 56-58

Virginia Beach Convention Center Award-Winning Venue Transforms Mid-Atlantic Destination Page 8

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©2009 Charleston Civic Center

Facilities & 2009 DIRECTORY

Destinations Planner Guide

TM

For Association & Corporate Meeting Planners

Awards of Excellence Ballot.................14 On The Cover: Virginia Beach – Destination Transformation.....................8 F&D Hot Lists........................................4 Viewpoint: ‘Cautious Optimism is Still Optimism’ ..................................2 Destination Perspectives: ‘Appealing to the Medical Markets’.........7 Spotlight Feature: Q&A with Karen Kotowski, Chief Operating Officer of the Convention Industry Council...........12 F&D IndustryView: Photo Gallery ASAE & The Center’s Springtime Expo 2009.........................56 2010 – Save the Date/ The year’s Must Attends for Meeting Planners............................58 FMG Buyer’s Guide: Your Products & Services Directory............................59 Listing Index A-Z..................................14 Ad Index..............................................60

Planner Guide Directory *Exclusive Facility/CVB Spotlight

Northeast Meadowlands Exposition Center........................ *32, 39 Providence Warwick CVB/Rhode Island Convention Center....................... *42, 53 Rochester Riverside Convention Center....................... *46, 53

Mid-Atlantic Charleston Civic Center.......................15 Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax.....................30 Norfolk CVB.........................................52 Virginia Beach CVB..............................55 Southeast Chattanooga Area CVB................. *20, 18 The Classic Center...............................18 The Georgia Center, The University of Georgia’s Conference Center & Hotel........... *26, 28 Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center............ *24, 28 Hilton Atlanta......................................30 Jackson Convention Center.......... *29, 36 Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB/Harrison County Tourism Commission........ *34, 43 Orange County Convention Center.....*40, 52 Midwest Branson Convention Center.......... *19, 15 JW Marriott Indianapolis......................37 Kansas Expocentre...............................37 West Austin Convention Center............. *16, 15 Cox Convention Center................ *22, 18 George R. Brown Convention Center.....28 Hard Rock Hollywood/Seminole............30 Oklahoma City CVB...................... *38, 52 Puerto Rico Puerto Rico Convention Center..... *44, 53 Sheraton Puerto Rico................... *48, 54

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IEWPOINT Cautious Optimism is Still Optimism

tock Prices Show Gains. Home Foreclosures Fall. Number of People Filing for Unemployment Plateaus. European Nations Declare End to Recessions.

As far as positive economic news goes, these recent headlines may be slim pickings.

No one is jumping up and down and singing “Happy Days Are Here Again.” At New Years we still won’t be partying like it’s 1999, again. Although more of a trickle than a stream, positive news about the economy did remain steady through the 4th quarter of 2009. Many indicators, such as employment and consumer spending, are still lagging behind. But, compared to a year ago, news from the economic front shows a drastic improvement over Wall Street Bail-Outs and Stimulus Package Debates.

Last year was challenging by any measure and it seemed the only solace was that the tough times were being felt industry-wide. Planners had to work with slashed budgets and a wave of meeting cancellations affecting nearly every size meeting venue. By mid-year 2009, the meetings and hospitality industry was dealt another spate of bad publicity under the rubric of the AIG Effect.

Confronted with adverse publicity and business conditions, industry members responded wisely and with vigor. Planners and destination representatives worked together, even re-negotiating contracts in some instances, in order to optimize a meeting with limited and usually reduced budgets. Associations representing all segments of the meeting venue and hospitality industry went public—loudly proclaiming the economic value of meetings, conventions and trade shows for individual destinations as well as for all the businesses and professions on whose health our national economy relies.

But things are getting better. In addition to the mostly positive business news, anecdotal information from meeting planners, venue managers and destination executives likewise has been notably upbeat as 2009 drew to a close. Bookings may not yet have returned to pre-recession levels and planners are playing it closer to the vest and seeking partners who are the most willing to negotiate on price points. But, the wave of cancellations seems to be over and the size of events, while not growing, is no longer experiencing shocking down-sizing.

The Facilities Media Group has also weathered this storm. Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide, our special year-end directory, had its debut last year—not exactly the type of climate one wants to bring to market a new magazine. The industry response was robust, with planners keen to have a pragmatic, easily accessible and highly useful resource. In our second issue we unveil our exciting new feature—Hot Lists (page 4), an in-depth look at how the right convention center can transform a destination (page 8) and a candid interview with Karen Kotowski (page 12), Chief Operating Officer of the Convention Industry Council, that explores the current state of the industry and forecasts what economic signs our industry should keep an eye out for.

2009

Volume 18 No. 2

Editorial Director Timothy Herrick Associate Publisher Michael Caffin Creative Direction & Design Scott-Goodman Associates Circulation Manager Therese Langer Account Executive Andrew Reeves Research Manager Amber Tavarez Business Operations Leo Oh © Copyright 2009 by Bedrock Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in by-lined articles and advertising copy are not necessarily those of the publisher. Advertisers are responsible for all costs, damages and claims regarding advertising insertions.

Facilities & Destinations is published twice a year

by Bedrock Communications, Inc., 152 Madison Avenue, Suite 802, New York, NY 10016. Telephone: (212) 532-4150. Fax: (212) 213-6382.

POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Bedrock Communications, Inc., 152 Madison Avenue, Suite 802, New York, NY 10016. Printed in U.S.A. Cover ad space is available by contacting a Facilities & Destinations advertising account executive at 212-532-4150 x103.

MEMBERS OF:

Timothy Herrick Editorial Director therrick@facilitiesonline.com

On The Cover:

Awards of Excellence We Need to Hear From You!

Virginia Beach Convention Center See pages 8 & 50

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You don’t have to wait four years, nor do you have to wait until the first Tuesday in November to vote. The Facilities Media Group lets you elect your choice for Convention Centers, Convention & Visitors Bureau and Meeting Hotels year-round. Late and absentee ballots accepted. Either go to Facilitiesonline.com or just turn to page 14 for a ballot that you can fill out and fax or mail in right Now! Make Your Voice Heard! Don’t Forget to Vote!

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

The Rhode Island Convention & Entertainment Complex offers outstanding facilities, amenities and service whether you are a rock star, CEO, athlete, conventioneer, or spectator.

The Complex is an ideal venue for your next meeting or event.

401.456.0200 meetings@GoProvidence.com GoProvidence.com

A COMPLEX made simple Rhode Island Convention Center Exhibition Hall and Grand Ballroom 23 meeting rooms and pre-function space Accommodations for groups of 10 - 5,000 Two parking garages Dunkin’ Donuts Center - Providence Assembly seating for up to 13,000 Sky-bridge connected to the RICC Luxury suite for groups up to 40 Five hospitality and meeting rooms Veterans Memorial Auditorium Arts & Cultural Center More than 1,900 seats On the National Register of Historic Places Hospitality and meeting space available Easily accessible

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

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F&D

Hot Lists

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What Facilities are making a difference?

Well, we have a List for you. F&D Hot Lists

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are the quick and easy tip-sheet for Planners of Meetings, Conventions, Trade Shows and Other Events seeking cutting-edge venues­.

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Status: Hot Category: Green FYI: Noteworthy Sustainable Programs

by Large-Scale Meeting Venues

Roads 1] Hampton Convention Center

thehrcc.com Coinciding with Earth Day 2009, Hampton Roads Convention Center and the Hampton Convention & Visitors Bureau received “Virginia Green” certification, a state-wide program designed to raise environmental awareness and make Virginia’s hospitality industry green. “The Hampton Roads Convention Center has worked extremely hard to make sure all of their conventions, events, and meetings are as environmentally-friendly as possible,” said Sallie Grant-DiVenuti, Executive Director, Hampton CVB.

2]

Orange County Convention Center

occc.net The Orange County Convention Center was awarded a $2.5-million grant from the state of Florida to install a one-megawatt solar photovoltaic system. The PV system utilizes high-efficiency, flat-plate collectors that occupy approximately 200,000 sq. ft. of roof space, generating 1,300-megawatt hours of electricity per year (the equivalent to the power used by 100 typical homes] without producing any greenhouse gas emissions.

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3] Exhibition Place

explace.on.ca Exhibition Place converted a concrete landscape on its eastside into an environmentally conscious and more aesthetically pleasing green space featuring trees, multi-colored container plants, and artistic statues. Part of Toronto’s Urban Forestry Program, the initiative included replacing concrete with grass, wood chips and mulch, giving the exterior building a greener and more environmental landscape.

Exhibition Place includes Direct Energy Centre and the new Allstream Centre – A Conference & Convention Centre.

R. Brown 4] George Convention Center

houstonconventionctr.com The George R. Brown Convention Center installed 600 Solar Panels, generating an estimated 100-kilowatts of energy. This is the start of a total “green roof vision” for the city-owned convention center. “We’re providing a large roof to find how best to use and maintain solar technology,” said Dawn Ullrich, Director, Convention & Entertainment Facilities Department, City of Houston. “We’re going to learn a lot in the next year.”

4 City 5] Atlantic Convention Center

accenter.com New Jersey allocated a $1.5-million grant to the Atlantic City Convention Center to fund a wind turbine. In 2008, the ACCC installed a roof solar system in the country, which provides approximately 26 percent of its electricity. Atlantic City is already home to the Jersey-Atlantic Wind Farm, which produces enough emission-free energy to power 2,000 + homes. “We’re helping to reduce our dependence on traditional energy sources, as well as reducing our operating costs,” said Jeff Vasser, President, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Status: Hot Category: FOOD & BEVERAGE FYI: The Venues Setting New Standards of Convention Cuisine

Rico 1] Puerto Convention Center

prconvention.com The 580,000-sq.-ft. Puerto Rico Convention Center—the most technologically advanced, large-scale meeting venue in the Caribbean & Latin America—also caters to the taste-buds of attendees with the Ficus Café, an innovative, open-air restaurant serving delicious tapas as well as Baby Back Ribs, Caribbean Hummus, Empanadas; Empanadillas de Churrasco and the island’s specialty— Seared Churrasco Strips with Manchego Cheese.

Full bar. Refreshing cocktails. Tropical Ambiance. Live Entertainment & DJ Music.

Available for special events.

2] Chattanooga Convention Center

chattanoogameetings.com The F&B Department at the Chattanooga Convention Center now offers fresh seasonal produce, breads, meat, cheese, locally roasted coffee and other edible items from local and in-state purveyors.

The program includes working farmers who harvest specific items for ultra-customized meeting menus. “We’re committed to providing the best possible experiences to guests,” said Keith Quatrano, Executive Chef. “We want to take it one step further and offer them fresh and local goods.”

3] Monterey Conference Center

montereyconferencecenter.com Ovations Food, the new F&B provider for the Monterey Conference Center, emphasizes quality cuisine with fresh ingredients. This California venue—the first conference center client for Ovations—is the size of many convention centers: 58,000 sq. ft. with three levels of meeting space. “Through our partnership with

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Ovations Food Services, the Center will be able to add unique culinary style and presentation to its growing attributes,” said Dan Concepcion, General Manager.

Diego 4] San Convention Center

visitsandiego.com Tides—the 130-seat, onsite restaurant at the San Diego Convention Center—features gourmet sandwiches, upscale carving stations, customized menus, locally grown ingredients, organic produce and a 36-seat “top shelf” bar. “We wanted to provide attendees with an attractive, appealing and convenient option besides a walk-up concession, which is standard in most facilities,” said John Vingas, Vice President of Catering for Centerplate, the Convention Center’s F&B provider.

5] Wildwoods Convention Center

wildwoodsnj.com The 260,000-sq.-ft. Wildwoods Convention Center is a New Jersey shore meeting & event venue with a wide range of gourmet dining options provided by Well Bread.

Andrew Tuano is the Executive Chef and oversees all F&B operations, including banquets, parties, corporate functions and concessions. “The quality and service of our food and beverage operation is of utmost importance,” said John Siciliano, Executive Director, Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority. “We feel we have upgraded our product with the addition of Chef Tuano.”

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Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

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The Facilities Media Group Essential Industry Tools

Bringing Venues to the Meeting & Events Market Since 1988

Destination Perspectives

Appealing to the Medical Markets

By Yulita Osuba

City,” formally known as the Lake Nona Science and Technology Park. Located on the southeast side of Orlando, minutes from Orlando International Airport, this 600rlando has emerged as the home away from acre area is home to the new University of home for health care companies seeking Central Florida College of Medicine, the a meeting, tradeshow or conference prestigious Burnham Institute for Medical destination. What is it that draws medical Research, a University of Florida research professionals and exhibitors from around the facility, Orlando VA Medical Center, country and around the world to Central Nemours Children’s Hospital and Research Florida? Some attribute it to the area’s Campus and the M.D. Anderson Orlando warmth and welcoming attitude. Others Cancer Research Institute. claim it’s the award-winning Orange County Convention The presence of the Burnham Institute Center (the second largest in the country), the quality and for Medical Research, one of only three diversity of accommodations or the convenient location. such locations in the world, has piqued the Still others have recognized the region’s interest of medical professionals worldwide. growing medical community. In reality, all This 175,000-square-foot research facility houses more “Orlando is now the top-ranked than 300 scientists and staff focused on studying the causes these factors play into the popularity of an area that was once known more for attracting and treatments of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular destination for medical families than physicians. disease. The opportunity for members of the Burnham meetings during the past A 2009 study from the Healthcare Institute team to serve as speakers for meetings in Orlando Convention & Exhibitors Association is a huge benefit to medical meeting planners. These pres12 years, with an annual (State of the Industry Report—Preliminary presenters are a huge draw for attendees. average of 79 meetings— tigious Highlights and Market Trend Watch) clearly Naturally, another big reason business travelers enjoy demonstrates Orlando’s position. According visiting Orlando, is for the area’s renowned entertainment, one every five days.” to the study’s comprehensive surveys, – Yulita Osuba attractions and dining. The Orange County Convention Orlando is now the top-ranked destination for Center makes it especially easy for meeting planners to medical meetings during the past 12 years, include some fun in their agendas. This is the only with an annual average of 79 meetings—one every five days. convention center in the country that has partnered with the In 2008 alone, Orlando held more than 225 medical meetings world’s most famous theme parks and resorts - Walt Disney with 173,000 attendees.

World® Resort and Universal Orlando® Resort. With offices This is not, however, a recent phenomenon. Orlando’s located inside the Convention Center, these Gold Key Partners prestige as a meeting destination for the health care industry help planners organize unique off-site entertainment both before has been on the rise for over a decade. Over the last 12 years, and after their events. in fact, Orlando has averaged more medical events per year Accommodations are also an important element in Orlando’s than any other destination. popularity. Surrounding the Orange County Convention Center The cornerstone of Central Florida’s meeting universe is the are more than 8,000 hotel rooms (the area boasts 113,000 rooms Orange County Convention Center. This renowned Center has total). Directly adjacent to the convention center is the brand earned its reputation by providing exceptional service, maintainnew 1,400-room Hilton Orlando, featuring a 450-foot-long ing a thoroughly trained and knowledgeable staff and by always covered walkway connecting it to the Center’s South Concourse. looking for ways to make the Center better. While convention Also within walking distance is the acclaimed Peabody Orlando, halls have a tendency to feel cold, Orlando’s exudes warmth. which is undergoing a major expansion scheduled for completion With its tropical feel, plethora of natural light and open-air in 2010 and provides direct access to and from the Convention pedestrian bridge with moving sidewalks connecting the two Center’s West and North/South Concourses. buildings, it’s as if Florida sunshine permeates every space.

Add in the convenience factor—the Orange County The Orange County Convention Center was designed to Convention Center is just 15 minutes from the airport—and it’s handle meetings of all sizes and offers plenty of options, with clear that when it comes to planning a meeting, Orlando truly has 74 meeting rooms, 235 breakout rooms, the 2,643-seat Chapin everything you could possibly ask for.

Theater and 62,000-square foot multi-purpose Valencia Room.

Just as important, the Center features services and amenities to Yulita Osuba is the Sales, Marketing, Event Management and accommodate just about anything an exhibitor or attendee might Exhibitor Services Senior Director at the Orange County Convention require, including three full-service restaurants, eight food courts, Center, where she has worked since 2001. She is responsible for marketthree business centers, wireless mobility throughout the complex, ing, sales, advertising, exhibitor services, event management and the in-house electric, plumbing, rigging and technical services and day-to-day operations for the Sales, Marketing, Event Management on-site parking for 6,227. and Exhibitor Services Division. Osbua is a Certified Meeting Adding to Orlando’s prominence as a prime medical meeting Professional, Certified Hospitality Sales Executive and serves on the destination is the development of what has been dubbed “Medical board of the Association of Convention Marketing Executives.

Sales, Marketing, Event Management and Exhibitor Services Senior Director, Orange County Convention Center

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Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

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COVER SPOTLIGHT

Destination Transformation

Marketing the newly-built, award-winning Virginia Beach Convention Center can be summed up by its snappy tagline – Bring it to the Beach. Now, this once summer-only resort town is redefining Mid-Atlantic Meetings & Events 365 Days a year.

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By Timothy Herrick Editorial Director ristine beaches, vibrant boardwalk, dynamic dining and entertainment districts have earned Virginia Beach an international reputation as a seaside resort. Located far enough North that populations of major cities—D.C., Philadelphia, and New York—find it accessible, yet far enough South to offer the region’s famed hospitality, historical attractions, cuisine and culture, Virginia Beach has attracted droves of tourists throughout the 20th Century.

A significant portion of those droves were attendees of smallto-mid-sized meetings. In the first decade of the 21st century, Virginia Beach decided to expand this business to include conventions, trade shows and exhibitions. By 2007, the final phase of the $202.5-million Virginia Beach Convention Center was opened and the “Bring it to the Beach” tagline came in full force.

“We have the location, we have the facilities,” said Al Hutchinson, Vice President Convention Sales & Marketing.

“Bring it to the Beach has become a motto for our team as much as it is anything else.”

Award-Winning Debut The marketing tagline and destination staff credo was adopted in 2005 when the first phase of the convention center opened.

Few venues received the kind of industry-wide attention as the Virginia Beach facility did after its Ribbon was cut. The design of the Chicago chapter of the American Institute of 8

Architects— the secondlargest AIA chapter in the country—awarded a Citation of Merit in the Distinguished Building Award to the venue and its renowned designers, Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. One of the largest meeting venues in the Mid-Atlantic region, the convention center features 500,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including five meeting suites, a 972-square-foot VIP meeting room, a 150,012-square-foot column-free exhibit hall and 53,800 square feet of pre-function space. Indicative of contemporary meeting venue architecture that combines elements of the environment surrounding the building with dazzling technology, the Virginia Beach Convention Center utilizes water, wood and natural light motifs throughout the design while featuring a 360 foot video art wall. A 147-foot observation tower showcases panoramic oceanfront views of the shore that has long made the destination famous.

“This facility has put Virginia Beach on the map as a premier meetings destination, while drawing recognition from both the national and international business community,” said James B. Ricketts, Director of the Virginia Beach CVB. In the two years since the grand opening of the final phase, evidence accumulates that the state-of-the-art, award-winning facility has successfully spearheaded the transformation of the city into a year-round, meetings and events destination. In the Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Expanding Appeal The city’s Town Center, a “downtown” neighborhood, features a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues— especially the spectacular, 1,300-seat Sandler Center for the Performing Arts.

This district will soon be augmented by the 19th Street Corridor, adjacent to the Convention Center, a project that includes restaurants, clubs, lounges and a multi-use, entertainment facility with a 2,500-seat theater encompassing two city blocks. In addition, a 400-room, Brand Name Convention Hotel is currently Meetings for All Seasons planned. Specifics of both projects were In 2008, for the first time in its history, visitors to not available at press-time (check Hot Virginia Beach from October to May outnumNews @ facilitiesonline.com for updates), bered the summer time beachgoers. This up-tick although completion is expected is entirely due to aggressive, by 2013. targeted marketing by the “I’ve noticed signs that the destination team. “We have economy is recovering, but it been very aggressive, building has some ways to go,” admitted upon strong relationships,” Hutchinson. “That has delayed said Hutchinson. He added announcing of the projects. The that military and governfinal stages of the bidding processment meetings (both, as well es has taken longer then expected, as related industries, have a but I’m confident that when they huge presence in Virginia) and are started, they will finish on multi-cultural organizations are schedule.” on the rise. The Conference At least the first stage of the of Minority Transportation Bring It to The Beach marketing Officials has committed to Virginia e have the location, message has been successful. “We’re Beach for the 2010 and 2013 national we have the facilities. taken seriously by meeting planners meetings and overall, according to throughout the country and even interHutchinson’s ‘Bring It to the Beach’ Bring it to the Beach has nationally,” said Hutchinson. “We have online blog, multicultural conventions become a motto for our team a world-class Convention Center, but are projected to provide more than we’re flexible enough to accommodate as much as it is anything else.” $13 million in near-future business for any category, or size of meeting or the destination. “Like other sectors, event. We have a great story to tell.” the word is getting out about what we Does being a conveniently located, easily accessible, 2nd-tier offer,” said Hutchinson. “But, it helps a great deal when these city have advantages in the current economic climate? “The organizations look at a destination, and see throughout the economy is the biggest challenge. It affects all market tiers,” said city-government and the hospitality industry, a diversity of Hutchinson. “The advantage for cities like Virginia Beach, that as ethnic groups at the leadership levels.” meeting budgets are reduced, we become more appealing because There is now a dedicated marketing/sales person to the we have the facilities of many first-tier cities now, but at much multi-cultural market. In another targeted-effort, the Groovy more affordable price points. The other side of that coin is that & Green program was the latest manifestation of Bring it to first-tier cities are lowering their prices, so they are marketing to the Beach. This 60s/70s themed event took two dozen meetorganizations that historically have only considered second-tier ing planners on bio-diesel bus from Washington D.C. to the cities.”

Virginia Beach Convention Center for a two-day event featurHutchinson added, “we’re both playing in each other’s sanding accredited seminars on green issues and destination tours. boxes, which makes interesting times. But it always comes down “We were the first convention center and destination to be to the caliber of your facilities, what your destinations offer, the certified “Green” in the state,” said Hutchinson. “In the curquality of your staff and the relationships you’ve built.” rent market, meeting planners demand that commitment.” inaugural fiscal year of the venue, before the recession gained momentum, 59,000+ room nights were booked by the CVB sales team for the new Convention Center, estimated to be more than $23 million. The diverse range of events include: Hampton Roads Auto Dealers Association International Auto Show; North American Association for Environmental Education; Virginia Family Career and Community Leaders of America Recognition Conference; Redskins Beach Blitz; Virginia Association of Mortgage Brokers and American Cheer & Dance Express.

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Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

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2009 brought back old friends and introduced new.

The SMG family continues to strengthen. To both our new and renewed members we say…

Welcome SMG & SAVOR’s 2009 New Accounts Cambria County War Memorial (Johnstown, Pennsyvania)† Charlotte Harbor Events Center (Punta Gorda, Florida) Leeds Arena (Leeds, United Kingdom) Mazatlán International Center (Mazatlán, Mexico) Meadow Event Park at the State Fair of Virginia (Doswell, Virginia)† Movistar Arena (Santiago, Chile) † Odysseum Cologne (Cologne, Germany) Ge Richmond CenterStage (Richmond, Virginia) ShowWare Center at Kent (Kent, Washington)† Shreveport Municipal Auditorium (Shreveport, Louisiana) Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza (Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania)* Whitley Bay Playhouse (Whitley Bay, United Kingdom)† †

SMG & SAVOR Acounts * SAVOR Accounts

Welcome Back SMG & SAVOR’s 2009 Renewed Accounts 1st Mariner Arena (Baltimore, Maryland)

Heritage Park Amphitheater (Simpsonville, South Carolina)

American Bank Center Arena (Corpus Christi, Texas)

Landmark Theater (Richmond, Virginia)† Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex (Austin, Texas)

BankAtlantic Center (Sunrise, Florida) Big Sandy Superstore Arena (Huntington, West Virginia)

†

Moscone Center (San Francisco, California)†

Bridgewater Concert Hall (Manchester, United Kingdom)†

North Charleston Coliseum (North Charleston, South Carolina)

Broward County Convention Center (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)

Pershing Auditorium (Lincoln, Nebraska)†

Cabarrus Arena A and Events Center (Concord, North Carolina)†

Saenger Theatre Theat (Pensacola, Florida)†

Carolina First Center in Greenville (Greenville, South Carolina)†

Salt Palace Convention Center (Salt Lake City, Utah)

Eastern Kentucky Expo Center (Pikeville, Kentucky)

Dow Event Center (Saginaw, Michigan)†

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Five Flags Center Arena (Dubuque, Iowa) Florence Civic Center (Florence, South Carolina)

Times Union Center (Albany, New York) Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza (Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania)

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George M. Sullivan Sports Arena (Anchorage, Alaska)

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Greater Columbus Convention Center (Columbus, Ohio)

William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center (Anchorage, Alaska)† Wolstein Center (Cleveland, Ohio)

Hampton Roads Convention Center (Hampton, Virginia)

To inquire about SMG-managed facilities call 1.866.BOOK.SMG or visit www.smgworld.com

Spotlight Feature

“The value proposition of attending a meeting or convention must be clearly articulated to exhibitors and attendees.”

Karen Kotowski, Chief Operating Officer of the Convention Industry Council, discusses the economy and other issues with Facilities & Destinations

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aren Kotowski became Chief FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS: Operating Officer of the How bad a year has 2009/08 been for the Convention Industry Council meetings & conventions industry?

(CIC) in December 2008, just in time to be at the helm during KAREN KOTOWSKI: I think it has a historically severe economic definitely been a challenging year, downturn. The current economic troubles impacted the there is no way around that. But the convention and meeting industry in a variety of ways, challenge is not one our industry faces, including budget cut backs, renegotiated contracts, it involves the entire U.S. economy. reduced bookings and the political and public scrutiny In that regard I think that as the of the value of meetings. economy improves, companies and Not exactly a stress-free environment to begin a associations will start holding meetings new position, especially since the business turmoil and people will start attending again. meant that CIC services were more in demand by the We’re a lagging indicator. industry it represents. A federation of 34 organizations in the meetings, exhibition and travel segments of the F&D: What indicator causes you the most meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry, CIC concern? members include more than 103,500 individuals and 19,500 firms and KK: I saw a report that the recession properties. Founded in 1949, the CIC’s is ending but unemployment is still very lanners have been main mission is to facilitate the exchange high and still increasing. Again, that’s retooling their meetings, another lagging indicator. It is going to of information within the meetings, take a while for those jobs to come back. conventions, especially in such signature scaling back or cutting out programs as the CMP Designation certain events because of F&D: What indicator would you consider a and the Accepted Practices Exchange (APEX ). Kotowski has led an initiative potential silver lining? budget cuts.” for incorporating Green Standards KK: The Fed’s snapshot of economic conditions showing the into APEX. Prior to joining CIC, Kotowski was Vice President, Member economic activity is stabilizing and predicting growth in the Education with the National Association of Home Builders, a 3-4 percent range in the current quarter. position that focused on providing education and services for the organization. During this candid and topical interview, she drew F&D: Is the economic impact on the conventions industry across the a comparison with that industry, which enjoyed years of expansive board or more association/profession/industry specific? growth until the housing bubble burst, to the current state of the KK: Generally it seems to be across the board, although I Convention Industry – “History has taught us that all industries think there are pockets in specific industries. I don’t think are cyclical.” medical meetings have been as hard hit. Those professions Although the interview touched on several programs of the which require continuing education for certification and CIC, the economy understandably dominated this spotlight. licensing will probably fare better than those that don’t.

Where exactly our industry is in the business cycle may still be uncertain, and Kotowski correctly reminds us that it is not just F&D: Do you think the industry has reached bottom? our industry suffering through doldrums. What comes across though is how strongly this veteran meeting planner believes KK: This is my personal opinion. I think it has by virtue of in the profession—“planners also showed their value to their the improving economy and the meetings-bashing rhetoric companies because what we do has such an impact on the bottom line.” that we saw earlier this year has stopped. Our industry did a good job, lead by USTA and other CIC members,

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Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

articulating to elected officials the value of meetings, and who were the true victims, the hotel employees, taxi drivers and other workers in the hospitality industry, of their remarks, not the corporate execs. So that has stopped.

F&D: Why should meeting planners be optimistic about 2010?

“I

think that as the economy improves, companies and associations will start holding meetings and people will start attending again.”

KK: History has taught us that all industries are cyclical. I came from the National Association of Home Builders, prior to joining CIC. They enjoyed strong growth for the 16 years I was there, but we all knew it was going to come to an end some day. Even that industry is showing signs of growth. I think planners should be optimistic about their resiliency and like the home builders, try to learn from the past year and make sure we are ready the next time we are challenged. Planners must show their value to their companies because what we do has such an impact on the bottom line.

F&D: Are there things a planner can do to avoid canceling a convention or meeting?

KK: Clearly, in good times or bad, the reason for holding the event needs to be solid. The value proposition of attending a meeting or convention must be clearly articulated to exhibitors and attendees. So, in difficult times, the planner, more than ever, needs to go back to that value proposition, maybe tweak it for the times, and work with their marketing folks to get that message out. Then there are the obvious things like adjusting their budgets to new realities and working with suppliers to renegotiate their numbers to reflect expected attendance etc.

F&D: What other kinds of impact has the economy had on meetings?

KK: I’ve heard from suppliers that planners are not booking as far out. Planners have been retooling their meetings, scaling back or cutting out certain events because of budget cuts.

F&D: What technology is affecting conventions the most?

KK: I think social media is probably the biggest influence right now in terms of building attendance and buzz, particularly with the younger generation who tend to be the ones on those sites. It will be interesting to see if it has staying power.

Continued on page 54

w

Ne

• In the heart of downtown Atlanta— the “business hub” of the southeast • 1,242 newly renovated guest rooms • Over 119,000 sq. ft. of meeting space • Pedestrian skybridge leading to shopping and attractions • Innovative cuisine and unique dining outlets

255 COURTLAND STREET, NE • ATLANTA, GA 30303 • 404-659-2000 • www.atlanta.hilton.com Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

13

square f meeting one of th America

The Northeast

Meeting Space: 8 meeting rooms; 125,000-sq.-ft. ballroom arena; 100,000-sq.-ft. of total Exhibit Space, including a 70,000-sq.-ft. Main

Meeting

Facilities & Destinations Listing Index A-to-Z

MISSOU

MASSACHUSETTS

Connecticut Massachusetts Maine New Hampshire New Jersey New York Pennsylvania Rhode Island Vermont &

184,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall.

Austin Convention Center............................................. 15

JW Marriott Indianapolis............................................... 37

Branson Convention Center........................................... 15

Kansas Expocentre.........................................................

37 Internet, Internet II Abilene Network

Charleston Civic Center................................................. 15

Meadowlands Exposition Center....................................

39 Screens located throughout the build-

Venue Features: Free Wireless

Capability, and Informational Plasma

Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center................ 15

ing; Transportation & Visitor Memphis Cook Convention Center................................

39

Chattanooga Area CVB.................................................. 18

public transportation.

Miami Beach Convention Center...................................

43

The Classic Center........................................................ 18

Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB/

Cox Convention Center................................................. 18 Daytona Beach Area CVB.............................................. 27 Direct Energy Centre..................................................... 27 Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward

County Convention Center............................................ 28 The Georgia Center, The University

of Georgia’s Conference Center & Hotel......................... 28 George R. Brown Convention Center............................. 28 Hampton Roads Convention Center............................... 30 Hard Rock Hollywood/Seminole.................................... 30 Hilton Atlanta............................................................... 30 Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax.............................................. 30 Irving Convention Center.............................................. 36 Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau........................... 36 Jackson Convention Center............................................ 36

Information Desk, Close proximity to

Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: 35,000.

Harrison County Tourism Commission..........................

43 Transportation: two miles from Logan BOSTON CONVENTION International Airport. & EXHIBITION CENTER Center.

Monona Terrace Convention . .............................

52 415 Summer Street Nearby Attractions: Faneuil Hall Boston, MA 02210 Marketplace, Boston Harbor, 52 Norfolk CVB.................................................................

(617) 954-2000; Fax: (617) 954-2299 Downtown Boston, Fenway Park, www.massconvention.com Oklahoma City CVB. . ....................................................

Boston Symphony Orchestra, 52 Executive Director: James E. Rooney Museum of Fine Arts, Orange County Convention 52 “Stunning Architecture.

Superior Center................................

Black Heritage Trail, The Freedom Service. Unsurpassed Technology.”

Trial, Museum of Science.

Providence Warwick CVB/ Snapshot: Designed with input from See ad on page 19 association and corporate meeting Center................................... 53 Rhode Island Convention planners as well as trade show Puerto Rico Convention producers worldwide, the BostonCenter..................................... 53 Convention & Exhibition Center Rochester Riverside Convention Center......................... 53 (BCEC) delivers more customerfocused features, greater flexibility, and Center............................ 54 Scanticon Hotel & Conference more state-of-the-art services than any Sheraton Puerto Rico. ....................................................

54 other convention center.

Flexible, easily configured spaces make the BCEC the Vancouver Convention perfect choice for both large and small-scale events. & Exhibition Centre...................................................... 54 Meeting Space: More than 300,000 sq.

Virginia Beach CVB. ......................................................

55 ft. of meeting space; 84 meeting rooms; 40,020-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 516,000 sq. ft.

Wilmington Convention Center..................................... 55 of Exhibition Space, including

50

Facilities&Destinations AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE VOTE for the top Convention Centers, Exposition Centers,

Destinations, CVBs, or Meeting Hotels & Resorts your organization has used for its conventions, tradeshows, meetings or comparable events in the last three years.

PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA WHEN VOTING: ● ATTRACTIVENESS & F UNCTIONALITY OF MEETING VENUE ● SIZE & QUALITY OF MEETING SPACE ● TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITIES ● QUALITY OF STAFF ● FOOD & BEVERAGE OPTIONS ● LIGHTING, ACOUSTICS, & INTERNET ACCESS ● MEETING/EVENT SUPPORT SERVICES ● AMENITIES ● RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES ● DINING & ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS ● LODGING QUALITY ● ACCESSIBILITY TO AIRPORT ● EASE OF TRAVEL WITHIN DESTINATION

✁

Name of Nominee _______________________________________________ Check Award You want to nominate the above for: ___ Prime Site (Convention Centers, Exposition Centers & Other Large Meeting Venues) ___ Top Destination (CVBs or Similar Agency representing a city or destination) ___ H.O.T.E.L. (Meeting Hotel & Resort) Name, Title:_____________________________________________________ Organization: ___________________________________________________ Phone:__________________________________________________________ Email: __________________________________________________________ Describe the Meeting or Event ________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________ May we contact you?

Yes____

No____

PleaseFill Fillout OutForm Form&&Mail MailYour YourVote VoteTo: To: Please Facilities Facilities&&Destinations Destinations 1526 Madison Suite#301, 802,New NewYork, York,NY NY 10017 10016 East 46th Avenue, Street, Suite or Fax it to: (212) or Fax it to: (212)213-6382 213-6382

Winners will be showcased in the Facilities & Destinations 2010 SuperBook Issue—Deadline is December 31, 2009. All votes will be kept confidential!

14

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

KANS CONV ENTE FACIL

301 West Kansas C (816) 513 www.kc Executiv Convent Sales & Janet O’H

City of Nation…

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texas

Austin Convention Center 500 East Cesar Chavez Street Austin, TX 78759 (512) 404-4000; Fax: (512) 404-4416 www.austinconventioncenter.com Director of Austin Convention Center Department: Mark Tester Director of Sales: Lisa Kidder

Snapshot: Rated one of the country’s most technologically advanced convention centers, the Austin Convention Center has a convenient downtown location near the city’s famous entertainment districts. The facility spans six city blocks with five column-free exhibit halls, seven ballrooms and 54 meeting rooms.

Meeting Space: 374,255 sq. ft, including 54 meeting rooms and a 43,300sq.-ft. Ballroom.

Exhibit Space: 5 contiguous Exhibit Halls with 246,097 sq. ft. of total

west virginia

CHARLESTON CIVIC CENTER

200 Civic Center Drive, Charleston, WV 25301 (304) 345-1500; Fax: (304) 345-3492 www.charlestonwvciviccenter.com General Manager: John Robertson

“Center of Excitement” Snapshot: The Charleston Civic Center is the convention and entertainment centerpiece of Charleston, hosting the majority of the state’s premier conventions, trade shows, entertainment, sporting and corporate events. As one of the most flexible facilities in the Mid-Atlantic region, the Charleston Civic Center is comprised of four versatile venues—The Charleston Convention Center, The Civic Center Coliseum, The Municipal Auditorium, and The Civic Center Little Theater.

Meeting space: 86,000 sq. ft. of Class A event space; 18 break out rooms; The Grand Convention Hall offers over 50,000 square feet of Class A meeting/exhibition space, enough to accommodate up to 256

Exhibit Space: Theater Seating: 20,333 in Exhibit Halls; 2,291 in South Ballroom; 3,940 in North Ballroom.

Technology: Gigabit-rated building (voice, video and data move at over 1 billion bits per second); complimentary WiFi, running on a CISCO powered gigabit Ethernet infrastructure; redundant high-speed, 100 mg/sec.

Internet II access; plug and play capabilities; on-site technical staff.

Venue Features: Flexible and practical floor plan; 18 loading docks; 2 parking garages; pre-function spaces offer views of downtown Austin.

Hotel Rooms: 5,500 downtown hotel rooms.

Transportation: 8 miles to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Attractions: State Capitol; Sixth Street Entertainment District; Warehouse Entertainment District; University of Texas; LBJ Presidential Library; Texas State History Museum; dozens of museums and art galleries; Lady Bird Lake with ten miles of trails.

See Ad on Page 17

standard booths and can be divided into four areas; The Municipal Auditorium 3,483 seats; The Little Theater 738 seats; Civic Center Coliseum offers over 30,000 sq. ft of event/exhibition space with seating for up to 13,600 and accommodates 160 10’x10’ booths.

Venue Features: Distinctive Gourmet serves as exclusive, on-site caterer.

Parking: On-site parking for 2,000 vehicles; additional parking to more than 4,000 vehicles within a three-block area.

Transportation: Yeager Airport is a five-minute drive to the facility.

Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Over 4,000 hotel rooms (1,750 within one mile of the Civic Center).

Attractions: Charleston Town Center, located across the street from the complex, is one of the largest urban shopping centers in the country; The WV Capitol Complex; the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences; the Avampato Discovery Museum; The Capitol Market with a variety of specialty shops, Tri-State Racetrack and Gaming Center as well as the new West Virginia Power Baseball Park.

See Ad on Cover 2

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

missouri

Branson Convention Center 200 Sycamore Street Branson, MO 65616 (417) 336-5401; Fax: (417) 243-2387 www.bransonconvention.com Assistant General Manager: William R. Tirone

Where Water Meets Spectacle Snapshot: The Branson Convention Center offers 220,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and can accommodate up to 4,500 people in a beautiful, state-ofthe-art setting. Situated on the shores of picturesque Lake Taneycomo, the center’s unique design makes it an ideal location for a diverse range of events and gatherings—from national and regional trade shows and conventions, to religious symposiums, corporate meetings, public expos and large-scale entertainment events. The facility is managed by Hilton Hotels and is

Florida

Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center 75 Taylor Street Punta Gorda, FL 33950 (941) 833-5445; Fax: (941) 833-5451 www.charlotteharbormeetings.com General Manager: Jim Finch

Bring Your Meeting Home Snapshot: This 44,000-sq.-ft facility features a modern and open floor space design that lends itself to endless event layouts. The Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center can accommodate gatherings from large private parties to lavish receptions, business meetings, seminars, expos and special events of all sizes. A waterfront location that features panoramic views of the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor.

Meeting Space: 44,000 sq. ft., including 6 meeting rooms; 19,800-sq.-ft Ballroom; 20,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 18,000-

connected to Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

Destination: Known as the Music Capital of the Midwest, Branson has more theatre seats than Broadway, multiple Amusement Parks, Museums and Attractions & 11 championship golf courses.

Meeting Space: 220,000 sq. ft. of overall space, including 70,000 sq. ft. of Exhibit Space; 10 meeting rooms; 23,000-sq-ft. ballroom; 47,000-sqft. Main Exhibit Hall; 4,500-seat Theater.

Transportation: Springfield Branson National Airport is 45 minutes away and the new Branson Airport is only 15 minutes away.

Attractions: Branson Landing, Silver Dollar City Amusement Park and the Branson Strip with over 100 live shows daily.

See ad on page 19

Managed by Hilton

Hotels Corporation

sq.-ft. Great Lawn Area (2,000 standing room capacity).

Technology: High-speed wireless connectivity throughout facility; Pre-function space includes data connections on each wall.

Lodging: 477 rooms within walking distance.

Attractions: Art galleries, festivals and exhibits; a professional symphony orchestra and theatrical productions offer artistic and cultural experiences year-round; Museum of African-American History & Culture; Ranked by Golf Digest as the 3rd Best Place in America to Live and Play Golf.

Transportation: short drive from five airports including Tampa; St. Petersburg/ Clearwater; Sarasota-Bradenton; Fort Myers; Charlotte County Airport.

Destination Features: Situated along beautiful Charlotte Harbor, architecturally rich Punta Gorda is a “True Florida” boating town with spectacular royal palms lining cobbled streets, restored period homes, vintage streetlights, boutiques, art galleries, trendy restaurants, sidewalk bistros and spas.

15

texas

Austin Convention Center 500 East Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, TX 78701 (512) 404-4000 • Fax: (512) 404-4416 • www.austinconventioncenter.com

A

winner of the Prime Site Award every year since 1995, the Austin Convention Center has emerged as a leader in the convention and meeting market. A premier facility located in the heart of the capital city’s downtown business district, the Center spans six city blocks with 374,255 square feet of exhibit and meeting space. The five column-free exhibit halls, totaling 246,097 square feet, accommodate 1,289 10’ X 10’ exhibit booths. Seven ballrooms ranging from 3,896 to 43,300 square feet in size, and 54 meeting rooms and show offices totaling 61,440 square feet, complete the four-story convention center. Ample parking is provided in two parking garages with a total capacity of 1,700 spaces.

Technological Features Rated one of the most technologically advanced convention centers in the country, this gigabit-rated facility moves voice, video, and data at over one billion bits per second. The Austin Convention Center offers a variety of in-house services including complimentary Wireless Internet access, redundant high-speed Internet II access, plug and play capabilities, and an on-site technical staff to help with networking needs.

Hotels Austin offers more than 25,000 hotel rooms, with 5,500 located downtown, including the 800-room Hilton Austin adjacent to the convention center. Additional nearby hotels include: Four Seasons Hotel Austin; Courtyard by Marriott; Residence Inn by Marriott; Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown; Radisson Hotel & Suites; Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown; Driskill Hotel; Omni Austin Hotel Downtown; and Intercontinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel.

Austin by Night After conventions and meetings wrap-up each night, attendees may choose to enjoy Austin’s entertainment districts, the Warehouse District and famous Sixth Street. The Austin Convention Center is just down the street from the city’s vibrant nightlife, where visitors can also enjoy everything from fine dining in four-star restaurants, to down-home barbecue and authentic Tex-Mex. As the Live Music 16

located in the heart of the capital city’s downtown business district, the Center spans six city blocks.

Capital of the World, Austin echoes with the sound of country, rock ‘n’ roll, blues, jazz and Tejano. On any given evening, one can find live music playing in nearly 200 different venues.

Austin by Day During the day, visitors can enjoy the capital city’s many historical attractions, including the State Capitol, the LBJ Presidential Library, the Texas State History Museum, the Blanton Museum of Art, and many more museums and art galleries. Or, one can experience the beauty of central Texas, captured by downtown’s Lady Bird Lake, bordered by 10 miles of trails enjoyed by runners, walkers and cyclists. Surrounded by three lakes and a network of parks, Austin offers the perfect environment for enjoying the best of nature.

Austin ➤ Hotels: 5,500 downtown hotel rooms; adjacent 800-room Hilton Austin ➤ Airport: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, eight miles from facility ➤ Nearby Attractions: State Capitol, Sixth Street Entertainment District, Warehouse Entertainment District, University of Texas, LBJ Presidential Library, more than 20 museums including The Texas State History Museum, dozens of art galleries and historical attractions, Lady Bird Lake.

fast facts

Location: Downtown Austin Total Area: spans six city blocks Exhibit Space: 246,097 contiguous sq. ft., column free Ballrooms: 43,300 sq. ft. level 4; 23,418 sq. ft. level 1 Meeting Space: 54 meeting rooms totaling 61,440 square feet Technology: Gigabit-rated facility, wireless Internet access, plug and play capabilities Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

F O R B R E A K - O U T S E S S I O N S. When you book your next meeting at the Austin Convention Center, we also throw in 300+ days of sunshine. Lady Bird Lake and the Hike & Bike Trail are just steps from our door, with the Highland Lakes and elite golf courses only a short drive away. Here in Austin, after the wrap-up, it’s time to wind down.

246,000 sq.ft. of column-free space

(512) 404-4000 austinconventioncenter.com

Downtown location, convenient to airport

Gigabit rated, supports up to 7000 wireless computers

tennessee

including 100,800 sq. ft. of exhibit space accommodating up to 500 10’x10’ booths, up to 6,288 banquet seating, and up to 8,000 theatre seating; 21 additional meeting rooms; 40,000 sq. ft. of pre-function space wireless high-speed Internet connectivity throughout facility; in-house food and beverage service.

Hotel Rooms: 2,000 guest rooms downtown; 6,000 additional rooms city-wide.

Chattanooga Additional meeting/event facilities: Area CVB 1,700-seat Tivoli Theatre; 3,800-seat 2 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402 Memorial Auditorium; 12,000-seat (800) 964-8600; Fax: (423) 265-1630 UTC McKenzie Arena; 5,500-seat chattanoogameetings.com Camp Jordan Arena; 20,000-seat VP of Sales & Marketing: Steve Genovesi Finley Stadium; 50,000-sq-ft First Chattanooga, A Great City Tennessee Pavilion.

By Nature Full-Service, smaller-meeting Snapshot: Welcome to Chattanooga, hotels: Chattanooga Marriott; the perfect meetings destination!

Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Chattanooga has emerged as a top Hotels of America; Chattanoogan meetings and conventions destination Hotel; Sheraton Read House. for regional and national associations.

Groups typically draw record attendance Attractions: Hunter Museum of due to our central location. Chattanooga American Art; Model Railroad Display & Museum; Chickamauga is within a 3-hour drive of 10 million & Chattanooga National Military people. Our Tennessee location is centrally located in the Southeast. Bordering Park; Tennessee Aquarium; also golf, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking & Georgia and Alabama, Chattanooga is river tours. within two hours of Atlanta, Nashville, See ad on page 21 Knoxville and Birmingham.

Chattanooga Convention Center: 185,000 sq.ft of multipurpose space,

Facilities & Destinations

The Classic Center 300 N. Thomas St. Athens, GA 30601 (706) 208.0900; (800) 918-6393 Fax: (706) 548-0870 www.ClassicCenter.com Director of Sales: Maureen Baker

Be Impressed Snapshot: In the heart of downtown Athens, Georgia, The Classic Center is a meeting, special events and performing arts venue providing entertainment, unique dining opportunities and programs for all interests.

Meeting Space: 80,000 sq. ft.; including: 29 meeting rooms, Athena Ballroom A-J (18,000 sq. ft.); Grand Hall (27,985 sq. ft.).

Theater: 2,122 seats.

Lodging: 1,115 hotel rooms within 7 blocks of center.

Technology: Built-in A/V systems, wifi

Comprehensive Directory of Conference Centers, College & University Conference Facilities, Meeting & Boutique Hotels, Small-to-Mid-Size Meeting & Event Venues COX CONVENTION CENTER

One Myriad Gardens Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 602-8500, Fax (405) 602-8505 www.coxconventioncenter.com Director of Sales & Marketing: Tim Linville

ers, n sity

THE FACILITIES MEDIA GROUP

P

Essential Planning Tools

18

Facilities & Destinations

access, onsite A/V & tech staff.

Food & Beverage: In-house catering services.

Transportation: Athens-Ben Epps Airport; 70 miles from Atlanta airport.

Attractions: Athens is a unique blend of traditional heritage & trend-setting southern culture; Downtown features a legendary music scene, world-renowned nightclubs, distinctive dining, art galleries & trendy shops; Athens Symphony, Athens Welcome Center & Classic City Tours, State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Georgia Museum of Natural History, Georgia’s Antebellum Trail, North Oconee River Greenway, Sandy Creek Nature Center & Sandy Creek Park.

See ad on page 55

oklahoma

CONFERENCE

ns/ s

s

georgia

Snapshot: The Cox Convention Center is one of the most centrally located venues of its kind in the nation. The SMG-managed facility is non-union and located just steps away from a growing number of downtown hotels and a vibrant entertainment district featuring a variety of canal-side restaurants, clubs, music venues, shops and attractions.

Meeting Space: 105,000 sq. ft. Meeting Room complex featuring 21 meeting rooms and a 25,000-sq.-ft. ballroom that can be divided into 5 smaller meeting spaces; 100,000-sq.-ft. Exhibit Hall that can be divided into 8 smaller halls, or combined with the Arena floor for

132,000 sq. ft. of total exhibit space; 15,000-seat Arena.

Venue Features: wireless internet service and access speeds up to one Gigabit available, four (4) FREE prefunction wi-fi zones; meeting room and ballroom equipped with state-ofthe-art audio-visual equipment.

Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: more than 1,400 hotel rooms currently available downtown, including three (3) hotels located directly across from the convention center, while the remainder are within walking distance.

Transportation: 10 miles/15 minutes from Will Rogers World Airport, located just off I-40, between I-35 and I-44.

Attractions: Ford Center; Bricktown Dining & Entertainment District; Bricktown Canal & Water Taxis; AT&T Bricktown Ballpark; Myriad Botanical Gardens and Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; Civic Center Music Hall; Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum; National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum; Oklahoma City Zoo; Science Museum Oklahoma.

See ad on page 23

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Missouri

Branson Convention Center

T

he Branson Convention Center, celebrated its grand opening in September 2007, and just one year later distinguished its first anniversary by winning the 2008 Planners’ Choice Award from Meeting News magazine. The Branson Convention Center was selected as one of 25 convention centers by 4,000 meeting planners to earn this prestigious award.

In it’s first year, the Branson Convention Center booked more than 240 event days, significantly more than center executives had forecast. Bookings, including lots of return business, continue to be healthy as the convention center recently celebrated its 2nd anniversary.

Another factor that will certainly have a positive impact on meeting and convention business, and the local economy, will be the new Branson Airport, which opened May 11. It’s the first privately developed and operated commercial service airport in the country.

The airport is expected to open up new markets and dramatically increase the number of visitors — tourists and meeting guests — to the Branson area.

The Branson Convention Center offers guests 220,000 gross square feet of flexible, high-tech meeting space. With the capacity to accommodate up to 4,500 attendees at a time, the Branson Convention Center and the adjacent 294-room Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel are an exciting and powerful addition to an area that already attracts more than eight million visitors a year. Situated on the shores of picturesque Lake Taneycomo, the center’s unique design makes it an ideal location for a diverse range

of events and gatherings—from national and regional trade shows and conventions, to religious symposiums, corporate meetings, public expos and large-scale entertainment events.

200 Sycamore Street, Branson, MO 65616 • (417) 336-5401; Fax: (417) 243-238 • www.bransonconvention.com

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

19

TENNESSEE

Chattanooga Area CVB 2 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402 (800) 964-8600; Fax: (423) 265-1630 • chattanoogameetings.com

C

hattanooga is easily accessible, affordable and hospitable... the perfect destination for your next meeting, convention or sporting event. We’re conveniently located in Tennessee and border Georgia and Alabama. Chattanooga’s Metropolitan Airport, just 15 minutes from downtown, offers non-stop and one-stop air service to thousands of worldwide connections.

Over the past year, we have added new hotel brands and renovated three downtown properties – Chattanooga Marriott at the Convention Center, La Quinta Inn and converted the Clarion into a Doubletree property.

Chattanooga is a safe and walkable city. Visitors get to enjoy a newly revitalized riverfront; 13-mile Riverwalk scattered with parks, restaurants and attractions including the Tennessee Aquarium, Southern Belle Riverboat, Bluff View Arts District and boating options; nightlife; arts & cultural venues; outdoor adventures and shopping. We also have many annual events that provide year-round fun.

WHAT’S NEW: The Chattanooga Convention Center, one of the first Centers in the nation to partner with a local farm, began a new program to offer conventioneers fresh produce, breads and more from local and in-state purveyors. Wild Moon Ranch & Resort, just 30 minutes from downtown, opened with 6,000 acres offering cabins, stocked lakes, horseback riding, hiking, spa services and more.

The Tennessee Aquarium opened a new exhibit, “Jellies: Living Art,” featuring jellyfish alongside breathtaking glass sculptures. The Chattanooga Choo Choo is celebrating 100 years this year and joined the prestigious group of Historic Hotels of America. Outdoor Chattanooga opened their new center on the North Shore where they will be host guided hiking, biking & kayaking trips, seminars, classes and demonstrations. Carmike Cinemas will open the nation’s very first LEED-certified movie theater in downtown Chattanooga. Many new fine-dining restaurants have opened for more dine-around options and new offsite venues including Loose Cannon Art & Event Studio that was opened by a nationally recognized artist.

20

Be at the center of the newly-revitalized city that has reinvented itself – one of the nation’s top places to live, work and play!

CHATTANOOGA CONVENTION CENTER: The Convention Center, one of the top 10 green centers in the nation, provides 185,000 sq. ft. of column-free exhibit space, offers in-house audiovisual support; is surrounded by 2,000 downtown hotel rooms and an additional 7,000+ within 5-15 minutes. The Center performs multiple sustainable practices to be energy efficient and stay environmentally friendly. These include donating non-consumed food to the local food bank; recycling all paper, glass, plastic and corrugated materials, “day lighting” technology and individual temperature controls in each exhibit space. The Center is located on the free electric shuttle route and is within walking or shuttle distance of hotels, restaurants, attractions, museums and more.

UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS & OFF-SITE VENUES ➤ Tennessee Aquarium River Gorge Explorer – catamaran highspeed vessel, cruise while enjoying cocktails/dinner, viewing deck , can accommodate 70 passengers ➤ Pier 2 @ Southern Belle Riverboat – permanently docked and can accommodate 300 guests for dining, 600 for dinner or 1,000 for hors d’oeuvres; can combine with the Southern Belle Riverboat for a cruise ➤ Southern Belle Riverboat – daily cruises down the Tennessee River, 3 private decks (2 for dining, 1 observation) can accommodate up to 500 people for dinner, can combine with Pier 2 party ➤ Loose Cannon Gallery – located in the Southside about 15 blocks from the riverfront, urbane art gallery with over 10,000 square feet of available space, features 20-foot ceilings, art-clad walls, chic furniture, distinctive lighting, audiovisual equipment and more ➤ Rock City Gardens Group Pavilion – covered but 3 walls can be removed, heated in winter, 3,200 square feet with a 200-person capacity at round tables and 300 at picnic tables, plus access into the Rock City Gardens park ➤ Ruby Falls – beautiful view of the Tennessee Valley and TN River, special tour to the famous 145-foot underground falls, options include inside the cave, the Fun Forest deck or the Castle lobby and tower ➤ Hunter Museum of American Art – magnificent view of the Tennessee River downtown, several versatile event spaces Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

21

oklahoma

Cox Convention Center One Myriad Gardens, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 602-8500 • Fax (405) 602-5129 www.coxconventioncenter.com

Meeting Rooms & Ballrooms The meeting room complex at the Cox Convention Center features 21 Meeting Rooms varying in size from 672 square feet to 6,412 square feet; a permanent Board Room for 20 to 50 people; and a 25,000-square-foot Ballroom, which can be divided into 5 smaller halls or meeting rooms ranging from 3,278 square feet to 11,216 square feet.

Technology As the venue’s naming rights partner, and provider of telecommunication services, Cox continues to ensure that the convention center meets and/or exceed the requirements of its clients and guests. Cox increased wireless Internet capabilities throughout the convention center, allowing SMG to offer free wireless (Wi-Fi) hotspots to visitors in designated pre-function areas.

Cox also enhanced the venue’s technology infrastructure to allow Internet access speeds of up to one Gigabit.

T

The one-million-square-foot facility is surrounded by a growing number of hotels and attractions.

he SMG-managed Cox Convention Center is located in downtown Oklahoma City – a city known for being both accommodating and affordable. The one-million-squarefoot facility is encompassed by a growing number of hotels and attractions, including the Bricktown dining and entertainment district, the Myriad Botanical Gardens, and the Ford Center, a 20,000-seat arena, which is also managed by SMG. The Cox Convention Center is a multi-purpose venue designed to host everything from meetings and community events to major conventions, tradeshows, concerts and sporting events.

Arena With seating for up to 15,000, 65-foot ceilings and over 32,000 square feet of floor space, the Arena, located at the heart of the Cox Convention Center, offers an environment designed for epic exhibitions, inspirational rallies, major sporting events and worldclass entertainment.

Exhibit Halls The Exhibit Halls offer more than 100,000 square feet of space, 80,000 of which is column-free. They can be divided in up to eight halls and features four street-level doors, each 24-feet wide and 20-feet tall along with an added loading dock.

22

Location Located just off I-40 between I-35 and I-44 in downtown Oklahoma City, and just 10 miles/15 minutes from the Will Rogers World Airport, Cox Convention Center is one of the most centrally located venues of its kind in the nation.

Hotels & Parking More than 1,400 of Oklahoma City’s 15,000-plus hotel rooms are located within walking distance of the Cox Convention Center.

Two hotels connect to the facility: the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel is joined by a glass-enclosed sky bridge; and the Sheraton Oklahoma City Hotel offers access through downtown Oklahoma City’s newly-renovated underground concourse, which opens into the convention center’s 900-space underground parking garage. A total of more than 20,000 parking spaces are available throughout the downtown and Bricktown area.

Attractions and Activities Visitors can enjoy the mild climate while strolling along the Bricktown canal, or through the 17-acre Myriad Botanical Gardens featuring the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory. Restaurants, shops and theatres are also within walking distance. Other must-see attractions located downtown include the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. The Oklahoma City Zoo, Science Museum Oklahoma, and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum are also visitor favorites.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

23

GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE/BROWARD COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER

FLORIDA

Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward F County Convention Center

“

terminal to connecting superhighways. And it’s only five minutes rom a gorgeous beach chic setting to the state-of-the-art from the Broward County Convention Center, major hotels, beachmeeting facilities of the Broward County Convention Center, es and Port Everglades, the world’s largest five-star cruise port.

Greater Fort Lauderdale has a knack for making every Greater Fort• Fax: (954) 763-9551 • www.sunny.org/meetings plannerBoulevard, a hero.

1950 meeting Eisenhower Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 • (954) 765-5900 TECHNOLOGY Lauderdale Throughout thereach facility, find a fiber-optic MEETING SPACE team, and it continues as you the you’ll Convention Center toCat find5 and Cat 6 GET MORE MEETING FOR LESS has a knack infrastructure with Ethernet in meeting rooms, Spanning three floors, the Broward County Convention Center everything has been expertly prepared just asconnections you expected.

IN GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE exhibit spaces and lobbyCounty areas. Convention High speed Internet features 600,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space highlighted by Spanning three floors, the Broward Center access featuresis for making via T-1 lineshighlighted as well as by available ISDN lines. cool Florida décor an eye-catching waterfront location.

600,000 sq. ft. ofaccomplished flexible function space cool Florida décor A n addition to topand facilities, comprehensive services and a beach chic Cyberwaterfront Café and conveniently located kiosks put PCs at four your finYou’ll feelthe right at easeFort amid dramatic skylights, lofty&ceilings, every meeting and an eye-catching location. Within these surroundings, setting, Greater Lauderdale Convention Visitors Bureau Of course, you can’tsq.have next-level bronze sailfish sculptures and unique motif carpetspacious exhibitgertips. halls total nearly 200,000 ft. on the first technology floor. You’llwithout has given meeting planners anotherunderwater reason to choose this inviting planner tech support. That’s whysuch you’llasenjoy on-site ft.

Internet support ing. And with style comes substance, such as reliable electrical also find an array of high-tech features, a 1,300-sq.

Executive destination: SUNsational Savings. meetings aredigital easy with capaand telephone service, a first aid room and a full range of lightSuite Virtual with 62” flat screen TV,video Wi-Ficonferencing hotspots, video When you book the Broward County Convention Center from June a hero.Teleconference 24/7. bilities throughout the facility. sound15, controls. performance wall parconferencing and high-speed Internet access.

15ing to and October 2010 –Portable 2013, you’ll enjoy freestages, Convention Center titions, full adance floors, risers and anreception, elevated aseating riser on exclusive Five-star food service is a given at the Broward County Convention rental space, free one-hour welcome 10% credit RECREATION & and ACTIVITIES system allow for complete Center. The expert catering staff large kitchens are equipped to handle Convention Center services,versatility. and an additional 2.5% commission or palm-fringed beaches, yacht-lined great surroundings, four spacious exhibitFor halls total groups from 10 The to 10,000, providing everything fromwaterways, coffee breaks to golf, culcreditWithin to the these hotel master account.

Plus, the Greater Lauderdale tural sit-down attractionsmeals, and designer shopping of Greater Fortservice Lauderdale nearly ft. on the first floor.

Meanwhile, the submit second floor has a elegant accompanied by unparalleled and prove that CVB will200,000 fly yousq. in for a destination preview when you it’s possible to mix business and pleasure. Just a short drive from the Broward of rooms for break-out You’ll also an array of high- dazzling presentation. anmultitude RFP at sunny.org/flyfree.

Somesessions. conditions apply, sofind contact County Convention Center, Downtown Fort Lauderdale is where’s happening. tech bells and whistles, such as a 1,300-sq.-ft.

Executive Teleconference GFLMeetings@broward.org for complete details.

Getting here is a breeze.

Explore the galleries and restaurants of trendy Las Olas Boulevard and Suite,VIP WiFiroom hotspots, conferencing and high-speed Internet access.

Greater Fortshops, Lauderdale considers convenient, user-friendly Enjoy rates video with CVB LauderDeals. the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District, which includes the Broward transportation a top priority. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International You’re a “very important planner,” so Greater Fort Lauderdale is Center for the Performing Arts, Florida Opera, Museum of Discovery FOOD plenty & BEVERAGE airport (FLL) features the lowest airfaresGrand in South Florida, as well as 311 & offering of special values on guestrooms, meeting space, food and Science and Blockbuster® 3D IMAX® Theater, and Museum of Art of Fort Five-star food service is a given at the Broward County Convention Center. nonstop flights a day from more than 93 U.S. cities, free Wi-Fi Internet, beverage, and more at some of our finest hotels. These offers are available Lauderdale.

In fact, this the first convention centeritto be awarded thestretch prestigious restaurants and gift shops, and a consolidated Rental Car Center located exclusively to was meeting planners — making easier for you to your Throughout theFLL year,isGreater Fort minutes Lauderdale’s is filled with Confrerie la Chaine Rotisseurs award. The expert catering staff and under one roof. And only seven fromcalendar the Broward County budget and de impress yourdes guests. events that provide for unique venues to unwind, large areinequipped handle groups from 10 to have 10,000, providing Convention Center, major hotels,party beaches and and Portways Everglades, the including world’s Holdkitchens a meeting Greaterto Fort Lauderdale and you’ll 3,500 artsfive-star festivals,cruise concerts everything from coffee breaks to elegant sit-down accompanied largest port.from jazz to rock, stand-up comedy and Broadway hotel rooms within one mile of the Broward Countymeals, Convention Centerby shows. For more information and schedules, visit sunny.org. service andhotel dazzling presentation.

– unparalleled that’s out of the 30,000 rooms in great locations from Hollywood A destination that defies convention. to Deerfield Beach.

The palm-fringed beaches, yacht-lined waterways, great golf, cultural ACCOMMODATIONS AIRPORT AND TRANSPORTATION Select the convenience of a hotel near the airport or choose scenic attractions possible mix Lodgingsand aredesigner one moreoutlet detailshopping you won’tprove lose that sleepit’sover.

Hold to a meeting or Gettingalong aroundthe Greater Fort Lauderdale a breeze.

When you stepthe off your lodgings waterways or the BlueisWave beaches.

Discover business and pleasure.

JustFort a short drive from the Broward County convention in Greater Lauderdale and you’ll have 3,500 hotel rooms plane into the terminal at Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport, Lauderdale Luxe Collection, a designation of fine hotels — such as Convention Lauderdale is where it’sout happening. within oneCenter, mile ofDowntown the BrowardFort County Convention Center of the 30,000 you’ll immediatelyFort see Lauderdale; that Greater Harbor Fort Lauderdale considersResort convenient, The Ritz-Carlton, Beach Marriott & Explore the shops, galleries and restaurants ofthis Lasspectacular Olas Boulevard and the hotel rooms in great locations throughout destination, from user-friendly transportation a top priority.

Spa, W Fort Lauderdale; Lago Mar and the Westin Beach Resort, Fort Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District.

It’ s game time in Greater Fort Hollywood to Deerfield Beach.

Everything at the airport has been updated, from its parking garage and Lauderdale, Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa; Lauderdale, whether it’s watching the Florida Panthers play hockey at and The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa. From a full-service resort to the BankAtlantic Center, or at the gaming tables of Hollywood Seminole one of the area’s intimate and comfortable Superior Small Lodgings to Hard Mardi andNmore. event G R E AT E R F O R T L A U D E R D A L E / B R O W A RRock D CCasino, OUN T YGras CO V EFor N Tinformation I O N Cand EN TER every option in between, you’ll find quality accommodations coupled with schedules, visit sunny.org.

SUNsational customer service.

1950 Eisenhower Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL your 33316 To start planning next great meeting or convention, contact: SUNsational Service starts at the Broward County Convention Center.

Christine Tascione, CMP, VP, Convention & Group Sales (954) 765-5900 • Fax: (954) 763-9551 • www.sunny.org/meetings From its state-of-the-art meeting facilities to its seasoned catering Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB, 100 E. Broward Blvd., Suite 200 staff, the Broward County Convention Center specializes in ease. You’ll Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 20 Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide experience it from the moment you contact the SUNsational Service Toll free: (800) 356-1662 • Email: ctascione@broward.org 24

“

I

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Get the free app. Go to http://gettag.mobi on your smartphone.

More meeting for less, in a snap.

Stay ahead of your meetings budget with Greater Fort Lauderdale’s Sunsational Savings Plan. Now, you can plan on state-of-the-art facilities, scenic locales, comfortable accommodations, exceptional customer service and more — all for less.

Snap this tag with your smartphone to get the full download on discounts and incentives for your next meeting.

S N A P I T

You can also call (800) 356-1662 or visit sunny.org/meetings for details.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Get the free app for your phone at 25 http://gettag.mobi

GEORGIA

The Georgia Center, The University of Georgia’s Conference Center & Hotel

T

he Georgia Center, The University of Georgia’s Conference Center and Hotel, is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive university-based conference centers.

Conveniently located on the beautiful, historic campus of UGA just minutes from Downtown Athens, The Georgia Center encompasses space for meetings, conferences, exhibitions, banquets, special events, dining and lodging.

With more than 50 years of experience hosting local, national and international groups, The Georgia Center offers a stimulating environment that connects lifelong learners from around the world.

At The Georgia Center, you will find unparalleled conference planning and event design. Your conference or event is assigned an on-site event management team with the experience and knowledge to coordinate your conference from development to conclusion.

And, whether your conference or event is for 30 or 300, the complete experience requires a truly memorable setting. Our Event Designers can create a customized look and feel for your event, from serene elegance to casual fun.

The Georgia Center, the go-to Conference Center & Hotel.

Conference Center Offerings: 20 Meeting Rooms 5 Executive Boardrooms 16,000 sq. ft. of Exhibit Space 2 Auditoriums Conference Registration (on-site or at a site of your choice) Event Designers and Planners Marketing and Graphic Design In-house 24-hour Technical and Audiovisual Support Business Center with Computer/ Internet Access Free Wireless Internet Hotel Offerings: 200 Hotel Rooms, including 11 Suites Multiple Dining Options:

The Savannah Room Restaurant The Courtyard Café Georgia Java – we proudly brew Starbucks® coffee Dawg House Lounge Magnolia Ballroom and Banquet Areas Evening Room Service Free Wireless Internet 32” Flat-screen TVs In-room Microwave, Refrigerator and Coffee Maker Fitness Center and Access to Nearby UGA Athletic Facilities Complimentary Shuttle Service to and from Downtown Athens, AthensBen Epps Airport and Around the University’s Campus Open to Everyone!

1197 S. Lumpkin Street, Athens, GA 30602 • (706) 542-2654; (800) 488-7827, Fax: (706) 542-6630 • www.georgiacenter.uga.edu

26

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Florida

Ontario

Daytona Beach Area CVB / Ocean Center Convention Complex 126 East Orange Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114 1-800-544-0415 ext.129 Fax: (386) 255-5478 www.daytonabeachmeetings.com Director of Convention Sales Daytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau: Sally Gardiner

Daytona Beach: Way More than A Beach Snapshot: Located in the heart of the Daytona Beach Resort Area and just 400 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, the Ocean Center is the area’s premier meeting facility. The Ocean Center recently unveiled a $76-million expansion that increases its meeting and exhibit space to 205,536 square feet.

Meeting Space: 45,945 sq. ft., including: 37 meeting rooms; 11,715-sq.-ft Ballroom.

Exhibit Space: 167,980 sq. ft., including 94,770-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall.

Arena: 46,000 sq. ft; 9,600 seats.

Hotel Rooms: 13,000.

Transportation: 5 miles from Daytona Beach International Airport.

Attractions: The Daytona Beach area is home to 23 miles of sparkling beaches; top notch golf and tennis facilities including LPGA International and the United States Tennis Association’s Florida Tennis Center; Daytona Lagoon; Ocean Walk Shoppes; several new spas and restaurants, unique shopping, and an array of family and cultural attractions; Daytona International Speedway; the News-Journal Center; the historic oceanfront Bandshell and Oceanfront Park; the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center; Peabody Auditorium.

Direct Energy Centre

100 Princes’ Blvd.

Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3 (416) 263-3020; Fax: (416) 263-3029 www.directenergycentre.com Director of Sales & Marketing: Laura Purdy

Snapshot: Direct Energy Centre is Canada’s largest exhibition and convention centre with over 1 million square feet of exhibition space. We are conveniently located at Exhibition Place in downtown Toronto, with 35,000 hotel rooms citywide. Toronto’s Pearson International Airport is host to 50 global air carriers and is only 12 miles from Direct Energy Centre. Direct Energy Centre is one of the world’s most environmentally responsible exhibition and convention facilities. The venue includes a Presentation Theatre with 100 Permanent fixed seats, a

8,200-seat arena and a 20,000-seat open-air stadium on-site.

Meeting Space: 1,072,000 sq. ft. of meeting/exhibit/event space, including 23 meeting rooms; Conference Centre expansion scheduled for 2009.

Services: In-house catering and concessions department available. On-site parking for 7,000 vehicles.

Transportation: 12 miles/20 minutes from Pearson International Airport.

Attractions: Air Canada Centre; Scaramouche Restaurant; Hockey Hall of Fame; Le Montmartre Restaurant; The Distillery Historic District; Campbell House Museum; Black Creek Pioneer Village; Textile Museum of Canada; Bata Shoe Museum; Campbell House Museum; Royal Ontario Museum, Clarke Museum; Scarborough Historical Museum; Thomson Memorial Park; MZTV Museum of Television; CBC Museum; Benares Historic House and Visitor Centre.

South Florida’s premier casino and entertainment destination.

40,000 Square Feet of Meeting Space 2,400 Slots & Games in all Denominations Over 125 Table Games including $10 Blackjack, Baccarat & Live-action Poker 500 Plush Guest Rooms & Suites 23 Stylish Boutiques 26 Bars, Restaurants & Lounges Hard Rock Live

Group Sales 800.937.0156 1 seminole way, hollywood, f l 33314

seminolehardrockhollywood.com Florida Department of Environmental Protection

Must be at least 21 years old to play Slots and Table Games or to receive Player’s Club benefits.

Must be 18 or older to play Live Poker. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-888-ADMIT-IT.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

27

texas

doors. Other facilities include a ballroom measuring 31,500 sq. ft., a 3,600 tierMeeting Services: One-Stop Shop seated amphitheater, an exhibit hall with Location; Conference Services staff retractable seating for 6,600, 100 meeting works with you on all your conferrooms and Every four exterior suitence needs; summerbalconies conference for outdoor receptions, each measurisable assigned a Conference Assistant to ing nearly 3,000 sq.and ft. check-out prohandle all check-in cedures, rosters,The parking/transportation, Technology: GRB offers singlefacility setups, meal guarantees, direction-in George R. Brown Center modeConvention and multi-mode fiber backbone signs, an optional service. areas of the building,linen wireless access 1001 Avenidaalallde las and Americas throughout the facility,All redundant ISP Meeting Technology: classrooms Houston, TX 77010 and meeting spaceLAN are equipped networks, gigabit service towith any (713) 853-8000; (800)room 427-4697 audio-visual equipment least meeting or exhibitand hall,atwebcasting George R. Brown JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY one computer connected to the campus services, dedicated network monitoring, Convention Center Fax: (713) 853-8090 EVENTS & CONFERENCES LAN line. The Internet is also construcaccessitemporary LAN/WAN/VPN 1001 de las Americas MSC Avenida 3501 www.HoustonConventionCtr.com ble in complete the dormitories for service any overnight Houston, TX 77010 Harrisonburg, VA 22807 tion, telephone (single stay an Ethernet cord. and Additional (713) (800)(540) 427-4697 (540) 853-8000; 568-6330; Fax: 568-6444General Manager: Luther Villagomez line,using multi-line and digital), ISDN, www.jmu.edu/events equipment is available upon request.

Fax: (713) 853-8090 T-1 and other special high-speed data Conference Coordinator: Joyce Bentz www.HoustonConventionCtr.com Food & Beverage: onsite catering circuits.

General Manager: Luther Villagomez Snapshot: Located in two the heart of downtown available; large dining facilities that Snapshot: James Madison University Hotel Rooms: 5,000Convention within one mile of George R. Brown all three meals buffet style with a Snapshot: Locatedand in the heart Houston, of down- theserve ranges in services meeting space GRB; 60,000 citywide.

Center is within comfortable walking distance of rotating menu. town Houston, the George R. Brown from our Grand Ballroom to classrooms several major Transportation: attractions. Across theIntercontinental street is the Convention Center is withinbetween comfortable Activities: TennisBush and sand volleyball and computer labs. Nestled lush 12-acre courts; Discovery Green park.

Nearby are Airport and Hobby Airport both walking distance of several major attracUniversity Recreationare Center, the Blue Ridge Mountains and the the12-acre sports venues Toyotaairports.

Center Flat and Minute Maid rate $6 cab rides afull-service nationally recognized 140,700-sq.-ft. tions.

AcrossRidge, the street is the lush Allegheny this 472-acre campus anywhere service facility, candowntown. also be usedLight-rail by meeting Discovery park.

Nearby are the blends theGreen spirit of a collegiate atmofrom downtown to points south. spherevenues with the natural beauty sports Toyota Center andand Minute attendees. resources the area.

Maid Park.ofNew to the neighborhood is Attractions: Discovery Green, Theater Nearby Attractions: Massunutten the Houston entertainment hub. Resort, Skyline hiking and District, SpaceDrive Center Houston, Meeting SizesPavilions Accommodated: Convenient?

Yes. Fun? You bet.

Luray Caverns.

Downtown Aquarium, Houston 50 to over 1,100.

Livestock ShowThe and Shenandoah Rodeo, Museum Transportation: Meeting Space: The GRB20,000+ featuressq. ft.

Overall Meeting Space: District, Galleria Valley Regional Airport: 15 miles; 1,200,000 sq. ft. of exhibition, meeting Number of of Meeting Rooms: 30 shopping, all major Airport: 120 miles.

Dulles International and registration space, including 639,000 Ballroom: 9,000 sq. ft. contiguous sq. ft. on five street-level exhibit sports and yearround golf.

Lodging: guestrooms halls.

Two 2,300 exhibitonsite halls on third level(12 are hotels within 5 miles accessible to trucks viaradius). ramps and drive-in See ad on Cover 4

VIRGINIA

Georgia

VIRGINIA

The Center, T HE NGeorgia ATIONAL The University ONFERENCE CENTER C 18980 Belmont Place of Upper Georgia’s Lansdowne, VA 20176 Conference Center (800) 640-2684; (703) 729-8000 & Hotel Fax: (703) 729-5382 1197 S. Lumpkin Street www.conferencencenter.com Athens, GA 30602and Marketing: Director of Sales (706)Whitson 542-2654; (800) 488-7827 Eric

Fax: (706) 542-6630 The National Conference Center… www.georgiacenter.uga.edu where groups arrive as many and Sales Director: Kim Rogers leave as one!

The Go-To Snapshot: TheConference National Conference Centergives & Hotel Center you the advantage of a powerful the intiSnapshot:infrastructure The Georgiaand Center provides macy of an individual meetingforcomcomprehensive event services profesmunity to ensure results for training sional associations, educational organizaand conferences.entities Located tions,management businesses, government and just 12 miles from Dulles International the community.

Airport, The National Conference Lodging: 200largest roomsmarketed with 11confersuites.

Center is the ence centerSizes: in theup U.S. Meeting to 600.

Meeting Sizes Accommodated: Overall Meeting Space: 30,000 sq. ft.; 10 to 1,800. including 20 Meeting Rooms; 5 Executive Lodging: 917Ballroom guest rooms.

Boardrooms; and Banquet areas. florida

VIRGINIA

WHEN IT COMES TO MEETINGS & SPECIAL EVENTS, LEAVE THE PLANNING & DETAILS TO US

HILTON GARDEN Fort INN The Greater FAIRFAX Lauderdale/ 3950 Fair Ridge Drive Broward Fairfax, VA 22033 County (703) 667-9371; Fax: (703)Center 667-9376 Convention

www.fairfax.gardeninn.com 1950 Eisenhower Blvd of Sales Marketing: FortDirector Lauderdale, FL &33316 Thida Ilyadis Fax: (954) 763-9551 (954) 765-5900; www.ftlauderdalecc.com “Everything. Right where you Assistant need it.”General Manager: Terry Kuca

3950 Fair Ridge Drive Fairfax, VA 22033 www.fairfax.hgi.com

The Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel in Northern Virginia offers: Small to medium size meeting and banquet rooms for up to 300 guests Dedicated and friendly sales staff to focus on the details Current and up-to-date audio/visual equipment and technology On-site catering with high-quality and variety of menus to compliment any budget.

Please contact Steve Steinberg at 703.385.7774 or steve.steinberg@hilton.com

28

12

Premier Oceanside Convention Snapshot: At the Hilton Garden Inn Center In The Venice FairfaxLocated hotel in Northern Virginia, you’ll of find America everything you need, from the

welcoming to the guestrooms Snapshot: Thepavilion 600,000-sq.ft.

Greater Fort designed to addressCounty the needs of today’s Lauderdale/Broward Convention travelers. The Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax Center, one of the premier large meeting hotel features: small to medium size venues in the is easilyforaccesmeeting andsoutheast, banquet rooms up to sible, located just five minutes from the 300 guests. dedicated and friendly sales Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood staff to focus on the details;International current and Airport.

And the renowned five-star up-to-date audio/visual equipment food and andtechnology. beverage department, famous for its gourmet seated meals and selection of Meeting Sizes Accommodated: snack ensure meetings at the Center Up carts, to 300. are a success.

Exhibit Space: 16,000 sq. ft.

Theater/Auditorium: 375-600 seats.

Overall Meeting Space: 266,500 sq. ft.

Technology: Wireless Internet throughNumber of Meeting Rooms: out facility/hotel rooms; Smart250 Podiums with the latest AVsq. Technology; 24/7 Ballroom: 16,500 ft. onsite technical support.

Exhibit Space: 26, 750 sq. ft.

Services: Onsite 1,800 Event(maximum).

Managers, Theater Seating: Designers & Planners; Registration Meeting Technology: Wifi capable; Services; Customized Meeting Packages; webcasting and video conferencing Marketing, Promotion, Design available in addition to allGraphic major audioand Website Business visual needs asDevelopment; supplied by our in-house Center with Computer/Internet team of technical professionals. Access.

Food & Beverage: BanquetPackages Menu Food & Beverage: Meeting Planning; Eveningper andday Event Cocktail include three-meals in our 800 Service; Catering. seat diningFull-Service room. Private banquets, theme dinners Savannah and off-site eventRestaurant Restaurants: Room catering; Black Olive Cuisine); Bar and Grill; (Gourmet Southern Courtyard Starbucks“ Cafe.

Café (hot entrées, soups and salad bar); Activities: A complete of Georgia Java (Starbucksselection Coffee, specialty Cardio Equipment, treadmills, stairsandwiches & delightful desserts; Dawg climbers, elliptical, recumbent bikes, House Lounge (sports-bar atmosphere nautilus strength-training andand & tavern menu) Magnoliacircuit, Ballroom free weights; The Areas.

Sports Center and Private Banquet Ropes Course – The sports center feaAttractions: Museum of Art; tures volleyball,Georgia basketball, racquetball, State Botanical Butts-Mehre squash, 25-meter Gardens; outdoor lap pool, tenAthletic UGA Golf Course; nis, beach Museum; (sand) volleyball, bicycles.

Double-Barrel Cannon; Lyndon House Arts Center; Athena Statue; Morton Theatre; 40 Watt Club; Unique Restaurants/Shops/Pubs/Clubs.

See ad on page 26

Meeting Space: 349,514 sq. ft. of Meeting/Eventspace; Rooms: meeting/exhibit 32 Patriot meetingRoom (764 sq. ft.); Ballrooms, Prosperity Ballroom rooms; Three includ(1,522 sq. ft.); Prosperity I (848 sq. ft.); ing 30,000-sq.-ft.

Grand Floridian Prosperity20,000-sq.-ft.

II (674 sq. ft.); Providence Ballroom, Floridian Ballroomand (2,739 sq.ft.); Providence Ballroom, 10,000-sq.-ft.

Palm I (900 sq. ft.); Providence sq. ft.); Ballroom; 250,486 sq. ft. II of (991 Exhibit Providence III (958 sq. ft.); Garden Space, including 64,887-sq.-ft.-Main Patio (3,301 sq. ft.).

Exhibit Hall; 15,000-seat Theater.

Theater Seating: 70 to 280.

Venue Features: wifi; webcasting; CAT Seating: 40 to185.

5;Classroom on-site kitchen; Breezin’ Java/Cyber Meeting Business Center; Café whichServices: features eight permanent state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment; terminals and at least eight more plug-in video conferencing available; Meeting table locations for laptops, Starbuck’ s Packages fromascomprehensive coffees, as well specialty foods corpo& rate packages to single meeting beverages and TV monitors tunedroom to rentals.

CNN/MSNBC news.

Lodging: 149 guest Transportation: Fortrooms.

LauderdaleFood & Beverage: in-house catering; Hollywood International Airport.

Great American Grill® restaurant; The Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Pavilion Pantry® convenience mart. more than 33,000 hotel rooms at a Amenities: Lounge; Center; variety of hotels, resortsFitness and Superior pool;Lodgings.

Multi-Lingual Staff.

Small Nearby Attractions: Washington D.C.;

Attractions: 23 miles of Blue Wave Fair Oaks Shopping Mall; Capital beaches, 300 miles of navigable Expo Shipping Mall; Leesburg Corner inland waterways, downtown Arts & Premium Outlets; Tyson Corner Entertainment district, more than 4,000 Shopping Mall. restaurants, More than 60 golf courses, Transportation: 8 milesHall fromof Fame, International Swimming Washington Dulles International Sawgrass Mills Mall.

Airport; 18 miles from Washington DC

See on Page 25 National Airport. andadRonald Reagan

Overall Meeting Space: 8,000 sq. ft.

Mid-Atlantic

Facilities & Destinations Conference

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

MISSISSIPPI

Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau Jackson, Mississippi: New Face. New Space. Same Place.

If you are a meeting planner looking for a new meeting destination, Jackson, Mississippi, is the city for you. The city has a bright new face and over 330,000 square feet of new, modern, tech-savvy space to offer your meetings and conventions of any size. Jackson, Mississippi, has experienced new construction and massive renovations, and our destination is eager to host your groups in our bright, shiny new space.

While other cities build convention centers, Jackson has built a convention district complete with innovative meeting space, new and renovated hotels, restaurants, attractions, and a centralized transportation center. But that’s not all. Now under construction is our

entertainment district offering even more unique dining experiences, entertainment with a Southern flare and nightlife galore, all within a stone’s throw from the Jackson Convention Complex.

In preparation for your groups, the Roberts Walthall, formerly the Edison Walthall, has undergone a $12-million renovation. The historic King Edward Hotel, now a 186-room Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, will open its doors this December after an $84-million restoration.

Conveniently located at the crossroads of the South, the I-55 and I-20 corridor makes Jackson, Mississippi, an easily accessible destination for your delegates.

Whether traveling by train, car or one of our eight airline carriers into the Jackson International Airport, the City with Soul is the perfect location for your next meeting.

We want to help you with planning your convention or meeting. In fact, let us make your meeting happen: Jackson offers free complimentary convention services. Call us at the Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau, 1-800-354-7695 and put us to work for you.

Come see us and experience our new spaces. Yes, we may have spent billions to alter the way we look, but we are still the same city: the City with Soul. Visit us online at www.visitjackson.com.

111 East Capitol Street, Suite 102, Jackson, MS 39201 • (800) 354-7695; Fax: (601) 960-1827 • www.visitjackson.com

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

29

virginia

Hampton Roads Convention Center 1610 Coliseum Drive Hampton, VA 23666 (757) 722-1222; (800) 487-8778 Fax: (757) 896-4600 www.thehrcc.com Director of Sales: Lacy Gibson (757) 728-5335

In the Center of it All! Snapshot: An SMG-managed facility, the Hampton Roads Convention Center features 344,000 sq. ft. of versatile meeting & exhibit Space with up to 14,000 attendees. An Onsite Event Coordinator is assigned to each event as your primary point of contact and liaison for all facility related services, and/or logistical planning. Located in the heart of Hampton’s Coliseum Central shopping district, the convention center is in range of hundreds of shops, restaurants, and attractions,

Georgia

Hilton Atlanta

255 Courtland Street, NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 659-2000; Fax: (404) 221-6368 www.atlanta.hilton.com Director of Sales and Marketing: Edd Karlan

The new beautifully remodeled Hilton Atlanta hotel is the ideal destination hotel that offers the perfect setting for business or pleasure and a gateway to Atlanta’s rejuvenated downtown scene.

Snapshot: The newly-renovated Hilton Atlanta hotel offers stylish and chic guest rooms designed for a serene and inviting stay. Known for extraordinary cuisine, guests at Hilton Atlanta delight in a variety of restaurant outlets. A complete recreational menu including fitness center with cutting-edge equipment, outdoor swimming pool, outdoor running track, and tennis and basketball courts.

Meeting Space: 119,000 sq. ft., including 55 meeting rooms, 18,576-sq.-ft.

30

Florida

a cluster of hotels, the Hampton Coliseum, and the new Power Plant.

Meeting Space: 344,000 sq. ft., including 35 meeting rooms and 18 breakout rooms; 27,907-sq.ft.

Ballroom; 102,600-sq.-ft. Exhibit Hall; 5,130 Theater Seating.

Technology: Wireless internet, stateof-the-art sound system (equipped for television and radio broadcasts), data ports in all rooms/exhibit hall, plasma directional screens.

Lodging: 2,500+ Hotel Rooms.

Entertainment & Dining: Power Plant of Hampton Roads, Peninsula Town Center, Queens Way in downtown Hampton.

Transportation: 12 miles to either Norfolk International Airport and Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport.

Attractions: Virginia Air & Space Center, Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe, Hampton Carousel, Miss Hampton II harbor cruise, Hampton University Museum, Hampton History Museum, Buckroe Beach.

Ballroom; 41,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall.

Total Exhibit Space: 18,576 sq. ft.

Theater: 2,200 seats in Grand Ballroom.

Lodging: 1,242 guest rooms.

Technology: High speed and wireless internet; In-house audio visual services; Electronic readerboards; Airline boarding pass kiosk; Check-in/check-out kiosks.

Hotel Features: Hilton Serenity bed with signature linen; Spacious work desk with granite counter top; Ergonomic chair; 32” HD flat panel television.

Dining & Entertainment: Nikolai’s Roof; Trader Vic’s; Luckie Marietta District; Atlantic Station; Castleberry Hill; Virginia Highland.

Transportation: 15 minutes/9 miles to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Attractions: Covered skybridge accessibility to MARTA & convention hotel; Georgia World Congress Center; Georgia Dome; Philips Arena; Zoo Atlanta; Georgia Aquarium; CNN Center; Fox Theatre; World of Coca-Cola; Martin Luther King Historical Center; Centennial Park; Atlanta Civic Center.

See Ad on Page 13

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

1 Seminole Way Hollywood, FL 33314 (954) 327-ROCK; Fax: (954) 327-7655 www.seminolehardrockhollywood.com Director of Sales: Mark Tascione

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is South Florida’s only Casino Resort.

Snapshot: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offers 500 Luxury Hotel Rooms; 40,000-sq. ft. of meeting & event space, including the 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live arena and 140,000 sq. ft of gaming space.

Adjacent to Seminole Paradise, featuring bars, restaurants, night-clubs and stylish boutiques.

Meeting Space: Our 40,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space includes a 16,000 square-foot grand ballroom divisible by eight and several smaller rooms for breakouts and board meetings. Plus Hard

Virginia

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax 3950 Fair Ridge Drive Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 385-7774; Fax: (703) 667-9376 www.fairfax.gardeninn.com General Manager: Steve Steinberg

“Everything. Right where you need it.”

Snapshot: At the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel in Northern Virginia, you’ll find everything you need, from the welcoming pavilion to the guestrooms designed to address the needs of today’s travelers. The Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel features: small to medium size meeting and banquet rooms for up to 300 guests, dedicated and friendly sales staff to focus on the details; current and up-to-date audio/visual equipment and technology.

Meeting Sizes: Up to 300.

Overall Meeting Space: 8,000 sq. ft.

Rock Live features a 5,500 seat arena with multi-functional space that can host exhibitions, concerts, and large special events.

Theater: 5,500-seat-arena.

Lodging: 500 Guest Rooms.

Meeting Features: Wifi throughout ballroom/meeting room; portable stages, illuminated lectern, podiums, stack chairs; onsite conference services coordinator.

Food & Beverage: wide range of restaurants include - Hard Rock Cafe; Council Oak Steaks and Seafood; Blue Plate; The Beach Club; Blue Point Ocean Grill; Tuscany Italian Bistro; Tatu; Renegade Barbeque; Murphy’s Law Irish Pub; Opium; Pangaea; Passion Nightclub.

Transportation: 15 minutes form Ft Lauderdale Airport $25; 45 minutes from Miami International Airport; taxi $80.

Attractions: European Style Spa; A 24-hour casino features Vegas Style Table Games including Blackjack, Baccarat, 2,400 slots & Premier Poker Room.

See ad on page 27

Meeting/Event Rooms: Patriot Room (764 sq. ft.); Prosperity Ballroom (1,522 sq. ft.); Prosperity I (848 sq. ft.); Prosperity II (674 sq. ft.); Providence Ballroom (2,739 sq.ft.); Providence I (900 sq. ft.); Providence II (991 sq. ft.); Providence III (958 sq. ft.); Garden Patio (3,301 sq. ft.).

Theater Seating: 70 to 280.

Classroom Seating: 40 to 185.

Meeting Services: Business Center; stateof-the-art audio/visual equipment; video conferencing available; Meeting Packages from comprehensive corporate packages to single meeting room rentals.

Lodging: 149 guest rooms.

Food & Beverage: in-house catering; Great American Grill® restaurant; The Pavilion Pantry® convenience mart.

Amenities: Lounge; Fitness Center; pool; Multi-Lingual Staff.

Nearby Attractions: Washington D.C.; Fair Oaks Shopping Mall; Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets; Tyson Corner Shopping Mall.

Transportation: 11 miles from Washington Dulles International Airport; 18 miles from Washington DC and Ronald Reagan National Airport.

See ad on page 28

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Professional services and amenities, with friendly, Midwestern hospitality.

The Kansas Expocentre brings together everything you need in a convenient, central location.

With 75% of the U.S. population capable of reaching our facility in just a one-day drive, the Expocentre is quickly becoming the destination of choice for budget-conscious conventions and tradeshows.

Sample our hospitality by calling Gracie Moore at 785.235.1986, or take a peek around our facilities at www.KsExpo.com.

Topeka, Kansas

new Jersey

meadowlands exposition center Secaucus, New Jersey • (201) 330-7773 • www.mecexpo.com

W

ith great facilities, nearby sports, plenty of shopping, low hotel rates and the Big Apple only minutes away—why wouldn’t you meet here?

Almost any size or any type of group will find the perfect accommodations and hospitality at the SMG-managed Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, New Jersey. For instance, the Meadowlands is only minutes from New York City, the Capital of the World; and, it is in relatively close proximity to three major international airports.

Then there are five major hotels within walking distance of the facility with fabulous room rates that are about one-third less than New York City’s rates. Finally, rounding out its appeal, are a stadium, an arena and even a racetrack three miles away as well as movie theaters and dozens of restaurants.

Located in the Harmon Meadow Complex of the Secaucus community, the Meadowlands Expo Center also offers great demographics and it maintains a group-friendly facility with liberal work regulations. This cuts red tape, has added value on planning budgets, and allows planners to handcarry merchandise and setup their own displays.

Vital Stats For groups that range from 5,000 at a banquet to a tradeshow with almost 400 exhibit booths, the Meadowlands Exposition Center offers: ➤ 61,000 sq. ft. of contiguous, dedicated exhibit space with 20-ft. ceilings ➤ Accommodations for 336 large exhibit booths or 392 standard booths ➤ Two drive-in doors and four loading docks on street level for easy access ➤ Seating for up to 6,000 attendees, concert or theater-style ➤ Catering for up to 5,000 people ➤ Large, all-purpose lobby for registration, receptions or additional exhibit space ➤ 6,000 free parking spaces ➤ Five carpeted meeting rooms totaling 3,578 sq. ft.

Meadowlands Expo Center also offers great demographics and it maintains a groupfriendly facility with liberal work regulations.

allowing the user to access a virtual tour of the facility and gain more specifics about the building, services and the surrounding area.

Professional Service Onsite is a professional staff to work one-on-one with planners with special needs and budgets. Plus, there are event coordinators, in-house decorators and other support personnel to make any event a flawless event.

For food and beverage, the Meadowlands has also renovated and restructured their operations to better suit the individual needs of each event held at the facility. There are also three food concession stands, all of which also have been recently renovated.

Hotel Partners Five national chain hotels are within a walking distance of the Meadowlands Exposition Center. Together they total approximately 1,000 guestrooms and there are another 1,500 rooms in the nearby area.

Some of the major properties include: Holiday Inn • Embassy Suites • Hampton Inn • Hyatt • Courtyard by Marriott Things to See & Do During freetime hours, meeting attendees can enjoy some 40 restaurants and a wide range of shopping opportunities—including the Secaucus Outlet Center with over 100 shops and the equally popular Jersey Gardens Mega Mall. More than that, the Meadowlands is three miles from Giants Stadium, IZOD Center and the Meadowlands Racetrack; and who would miss out on a short trip to the Big Apple, only minutes away. All in all, this is one of few facilities in the country that has the world’s greatest city at its feet.

Transportation Part of the Meadowlands’ attraction to meeting planners is that it can be easily reached by three international airports: JFK, LaGuardia and Technological Capabilities Technological capabilities at the Center include T1, ISND, Internet and Newark International Airport. And, only 12 minutes from the facility satellite uplink support. Teleconferencing and simulcasting to other locations is the Teterboro Jetport. For driving enthusiasts, Newark is also in close are also available. And, on the exhibit floor, the electricity is “flown from the proximity to major interstates including the New Jersey Turnpike and the air.” Also of note is a newly-designed Web site that informs the public about Garden State Parkway. Also, both the New York and New Jersey transit upcoming events at the center. This Web site features the latest technology system schedule stops right at the door.

32

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

1-888-400-EXPO (3976)

COME IN AND TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR AT www.mecexpo.com

355 Plaza Drive Secaucus, NJ 07094 • 201-330-7773 • sales@mecexpo.com

• THREE CONCESSION STANDS

• CATERING CAPABILITIES FOR UP TO 5,000

• SOLAR PANELS INSTALLED TO REDUCE ENERGY CONSUMPTION

• MULTIPURPOSE, CARPETED LOBBY WITH BOX OFFICE

• GREEN, ENVIORMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE FACILITY

• EXHIBIT DECORATOR MAINTAINS WAREHOUSE ON SITE

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

 61, 000 s q. ft . of c ont iguous , obst r uct ion -f r ee exhibit s pac e  20- f oot high c eilings  3, 128 s q. f t. of divis ible s em inar r oom s wit h air walls  Two dr iv e- in doors wit h f our loading doc ks  110/ 220/ 480 elect r ic power , f lown fr om t he air for v er s at ility  Wir eles s inter net, t elephone, wat er and c om pr es s ed air Capac ity f or: 392 8x 10’ boot hs 336 10x 10’ boot hs 6, 000 s eats t heatr e st y le 5, 000 s eats s port ev ent s t y le 3, 500 s eats banquet s ty le

A flexible floor plan solution for all of your event needs

WE’ V E WOR KE D WI T H A DI VE RS E C US TO ME R B AS E. HO W CA N WE HE LP Y O U?

The Meadowlands Exposition Center offers one of the most complete and convenient facility packages in the northeast region. By offering the drawing power of the Metropolitan area, your event, exhibitors and attendees can all take advantage by booking your event at an affordable price.

THE RIGHT FACILITIES. THE RIGHT LOCATION. THE RIGHT PRICE.

 FREE PARKING

OUTSTANDING LOCATION / JUST FIVE MILES FROM MANHATTAN COST EFFECTIVE / HIGH VALUE DEDICATED EVENT COORDINATORS EASY ACCESS FROM MAJOR HIGHWAYS MINUTES AWAY FROM NEWARK LIBERTY AIRPORT SURROUNDED BY HOTELS AND SHOPS PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

M E C I S Y O U R E C O N O M I C A L A LT E R N AT I V E T O N Y C …

      

Mississippi

Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center 2350 Beach Boulevard, Biloxi, Mississippi 39531 • (228) 896-6699 • www.gulfcoast.org

The Mississippi Gulf Coast

Y

ou will find a lot to love here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Like 400,000 square feet of newly expanded and renovated exhibit and meeting space at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center (MCCCC).

The centerpiece of this beachfront convention center is the 129,500-square-foot exhibit space. It has unlimited floor load capacity, huge loading docks, and all the power anyone could need.

This is flexible space. With 22 breakout rooms, we can handle all the breakout sessions you can throw at us. Need a fresh gulf seafood dinner for 6,000? No problem. If you need the arena, you’ll get another 30,000 square feet of space and seating for 9,000.

One distinct advantage the MCCCC has as a newly-expanded facility is the quality of our technology. You’ll find the latest in telecommunications here. 3G technology. Digital and analog lines.

94 wireless access points. Peer-to-Peer Networking. Webcasting.

And after the meeting, just imagine the choices your delegates can make. Will they hit the links on one of our signature golf courses or hit blackjack at one of our casino resorts? Give themselves a day of luxurious spa treatments, or treat themselves to gulf-fresh seafood prepared by a celebrity chef? Lounge on our 26-mile long beach, or go after the big ones on a charter fishing boat?

Play at one of our eleven casino resorts. The slots are hot and we offer exciting action at the blackjack tables, roulette wheels, craps tables and poker rooms. There are games for everyone from penny slots to playing baccarat in sophisticated High Limit areas.

The area boasts 18,000 rooms, 5,000 committable for meetings.

Accommodations range from the luxury of penthouse suites to the fun of a little mom-and-pop motor court. The RV fan will find plenty of parks available.

34

The centerpiece of this beachfront convention center is the 129,500-square-foot exhibit space.

You won’t believe the headliners starring on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Performers like Jay Leno, B.B. King, and Lee Greenwood just to name a few. Go to our website at www.gulfcoast.org to see a current schedule.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast features signature courses designed by the likes of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio and Jerry Pate.

With twenty courses to choose from, your delegates could swing clubs for weeks and never play the same hole twice.

Everyone asks about the shopping. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is dotted with unique boutiques, factory outlets, and places where you can find that special gift. Works by our talented artists and craftsmen are available throughout the area. Antiquing here is a sport in itself.

If you are looking for mint collectibles or pieces that need a little loving care, you can find them on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

With all the fun and excitement going on, it’s nice to know you can take a break and take in a museum. Contemplate the works of George Ohr, the Mad Potter of Biloxi, at the Frank Gehry designed museum. Or experience Horn Island through the eyes of Walter Anderson at the museum devoted to his works.

If the family is coming, there is plenty for them to do. Take the ferry out to Ship Island where historic Fort Massachusetts, crystal clear water, and a beach rated among the finest in the world awaits your footprints. Take a tour aboard a working shrimp boat, watch the skipper haul in the nets and see the catch for you. Choose from a day at the water park or a visit to a nationally rated children’s museum.

Along the beach, delegates can rent jet skis, kayak, or go parasailing and Relax... It’s the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Call Crystal Johnson at (888) 467-GULF x215. Or go to www. gulfcoast.org. Book a site tour now and come see the Mississippi Gulf Coast for yourself.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

You’re meeting on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Now Open!*

Missi Convenstsippi Coast ion Cent er

Wonderful destination. Great facility. Smooth registration. Happy delegates. Now, you can relax.

We offer a wide variety of services designed to make life easier for you. Attendance-building brochures and destination photos. Computer-generated name tags and on-site registration. Local promotional items to fill your welcome bags.

There’s plenty to do on breaks. We offer twenty-six miles of beach. World-class casino resorts. Stunning accommodations. Fine cuisine featuring gulf-fresh seafood. Signature golf courses. Shopping in exclusive boutiques and factory outlets.

Email the Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB at conventions@gulfcoast.org or call us at 888-467-4853.

Then, you can start to relax.

*400,000 sq. ft. of Newly Expanded and Renovated Exhibit & Meeting Space.

texas

MISSISSIPPI

Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas 500 Las Colinas Blvd E Irving, TX 75039 (972) 252-7476; (800) 247-8464 www.irvingconventioncenter.com General Manager: Thom Connors

Where Location Meets Innovation Snapshot: Opening in late 2010, the 275,000-square-foot Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas will feature a 50,000-square-foot, column-free exhibition hall, a 20,000-square-foot ballroom and 20,000 square feet of breakout space. The facility’s highly flexible, stacked design allows it to host several different types of events and meetings concurrently, and the building’s unique architecture, vertical design and interior finish creates a new niche in the marketplace.

Meeting Space: 100,000 sq. ft., including 20 meeting rooms; 20,000sq.-ft. Ballroom; 50,000-sq.-ft., column-free Exhibit Hall.

Lodging: More than 80 hotels within 10 minutes of the convention center; 18 properties are within a 2-mile radius.

Transportation: 6 miles to Dallas/ Fort Worth International Airport.

Attractions: The Dallas/Fort Worth area is a vibrant area, including six major universities and teams from the four major professional sports leagues that call the “Metroplex” home; location of Neiman Marcus store; dozens of malls and hundreds of boutiques; chic cocktail bars and adrenalinepumping nightclubs; Dallas/Fort Worth has a greater per-capita density of restaurants than NYC With hundreds of restaurants in Irving alone.

Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau 111 East Capitol Street, Suite 102 Jackson, MS 39201 (800) 354-7695; Fax: (601) 960-1827 www.visitjackson.com Vice President of Sales: Shun Hatten

Jackson, Mississippi: The City with Soul Snapshot: There’s no better way to sample the South than Jackson, Mississippi. A blend of the old and the new, from fabulous history, art and science museums to world-class exhibits and performances, Jackson is a secret full of surprises! Jackson can accommodate most groups or events with the 5,000 hotel rooms, restaurants and meeting space we offer. The Jackson CVB provides one of the best free-service packages for meetings and conventions in the nation, reducing the cost of a meeting or convention. Free perks include: site inspections; program & excursion planning; registration assistance; area

mississippi

AFFORDABLE MEETINGS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD.

Jackson Convention Complex

105 E Pascagoula Street, Jackson, MS 39201 (601) 960-2321, (877) 383-MEET Fax: (601) 960-2584 www.jacksonconventioncomplex.com General Manager: Linda McCarthy

SAIL INTO SAVINGS. On the heart of the Virginia Waterfront.

For more information on our group incentive package, please visit us at visitnorfolktoday.com or contact the NCVB sales department.

The heart of the Virginia Waterfront. visitnorfolktoday.com | 1-800-368-3097

36

Where Mississippi Meets the World Snapshot: Built to stringent green-facility standards, the new JCC features 85,000 sq. ft. of divisible space, encompassing a 60,000-sq.-ft. exhibit hall, a 25,000-sq.-ft ballroom, and 33,000 sq. ft. of lobbies, concourse, and registration areas. The venue can accommodate no less than 425 exhibit spaces and includes multiple easyaccess loading docks, a gleaming 9,000sq.-ft. kitchen, and two full-service concession areas – all accented by the very latest in fiber optic technology, Wi-Fi capability, and state-of-the-art sound. The complex is conveniently located within walking distance of many fine restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues downtown.

pamphlets, brochures and maps; and news releases.

Meeting Space: the new Jackson Convention Complex features 85,000 sq. ft. of divisible space, including a 60,000-sq.-ft. exhibit hall, a 25,000-sq.ft. ballroom, and 33,000 sq. ft. of lobbies, concourse, and registration areas.

In addition to our 330,000-sq.-ft.

Jackson Convention Complex, the City with Soul offers 12 convention hotels that can accommodate a variety of meeting sizes.

Transportation: 8 carriers fly into the Jackson International Airport daily.

Attractions: New Entertainment districts offers Southern flare & nightlife galore; Farish Street offers entertainment & history; eclectic & vast, Jackson restaurants range from Greek-inspired, Southern soul food to fine dining; music venues showcase blues, jazz, and even bluegrass; Mississippi Art Museum; Old Capitol Museum; Agricultural & Forestry Museum; Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame; Plans are underway to complete the Mississippi Children’s Museum, as well as start construction on a National Civil Rights Museum.

See ad on page 29

Meeting Space: 128,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including 23 meeting rooms, 25,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom and 60,000-sq.-ft. Exhibit Hall.

Total Exhibit Space: 85,000 sq. ft.

Theater: 6,000 total capacity.

Technology: State-of-the-art telecommunications and audio-visual; Plasma screen monitors and electronic directional signage throughout; CAT 5 wiring and communication data ports throughout; Satellite and television cable distribution.

Other Venue Features: Fenced staging and load-in dock area; Movable wall divider system; Easily accessible freight elevators; Ballroom and exhibit hall rigging points; Acoustic wall panels in exhibit hall; Business Center; Separate ballroom Entrance from Street.

Transportation: 12 miles from Jackson International Airport.

Nearby Attractions: The Eudora Welty House & Gardens, The new Mississippi Museum of Art; Russell C. Davis Planetarium; One of the oldest governor’s mansions in the US; The new Mississippi Children’s Museum.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

indiana

JW Marriott Indianapolis

10 S. West Street Indianapolis, IN 46204 (317) 822-8554; Fax: (317) 822-8464 www.jwindy.com Director of Group Sales: Anne Dunlavy

Marriott Place Indianapolis: 145,000 square feet of space. 2,200 rooms. 5 hotels. One Place.

Snapshot: JW Marriott Indianapolis anchors the Marriott Place Indianapolis, a Meeting Hotel Complex, features 104,000 sq. ft. of meeting space with 1,005 elegantly appointed guest rooms & suites in addition to Courtyard by Marriott (297 rooms), SpringHill Suites by Marriott; (156 suites) and the Fairfield Inn & Suite by Marriott (168 rooms & suites) and Indianapolis Marriott (622 rooms & 40,000 sq. ft. meeting space. Entire complex connected via skybridge to the 1+ million square feet Indiana

Convention Center.

JW Marriott Indianapolis: 104,000 sq. ft. of meeting/event space including 32 Meeting Rooms; a 40,500-sq.-ft.

Ballroom (theater-style seating -4,250); 20,000-sq.ft. Main Exhibit Hall.

Lodging: 2,248 rooms (all 5 Marriott Place Hotels).

Technology: State-of-the-art wireless internet; video conferencing and webcasting capabilities.

Indiana Convention Center: Connected by skybridge to Marriott Space, features: 180,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including 83 meeting rooms & 33,000-sq.-ft.

Ballroom. By 2011, completed expansion will feature 567,000 + sq. ft. of contiguous space (747,000 sq. ft. when combined with adjacent Lucas Oil Stadium).

Transportation: 15 miles to Indianapolis International Airport Attractions: White River State Park; Conseco Fieldhouse; “The Lawn” Outdoor Concert Venue • Circle Centre Mall (200+ stores & restaurants); Indiana State Museum; Indianapolis Zoo; NCAA Hall of Champions; River Promenade Indianapolis 500; Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art; Indianapolis Museum of Art. See ad on Cover 3

kansas

Kansas Expocentre

One Expocentre Drive, Topeka, KS 66612-1442 (785) 235-1986; Fax: (785) 235-2967 www.KsExpo.com General Manager: H.R. Cook, HRC@ksexpo.com

The Premier Entertainment, Exhibition & Convention Facility in Northeast Kansas.

Snapshot: Whether you’re planning a meeting, convention or an arena-sized event for 10,000 screaming fans, the Kansas Expocentre has the space to make it happen. We offer professonal services and amenities with friendly, Midwestern hospitality & at prices that won’t break your budget.

Meeting Space: 116,000+ sq. ft. of flexible exhibit &meeting space, including 15 meeting rooms; 44,500-sq.ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 11,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom.

Theater Seating: 1,100.

Landon Arena: 10,000 seats.

IN

OU T

FOR YOUR NEXT CONVENTION OR MEETING, LOOK TO THE CITY THAT IS THE NBA’S NEXT JEWEL IN THE CROWN. WHERE A STREAMLINED AIRPORT AND LACK OF TRAFFIC MEAN YOU’RE IN FAST. AND WITH THE BEST RESTAURANTS AND NIGHTLIFE JUST A FEW MINUTES’ WALK FROM YOUR HOTEL, YOU’RE OUT EVEN FASTER. IT’S OUR MEET & GREET, OUR NICE & EASY. OUR

Total Exhibit Space: 210,000 sq. ft.

Lodging: 224 rooms attached; 3 nearby convention hotels; 3,000+ hotel rooms city-wide.

Technology: State-of-the-art sound system & wifi available in arena and exhibit hall.

Features: 1,400-seat R.R. Domer Livestock arena.

Transportation: 12 miles from Forbes Field; 72 miles from Kansas City International; 75% of U.S. one day drive away.

Entertainment: Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant; Via’s Pizzeria; Chez Yasu French Restaurant; Paisano’s Ristorante, Tuptim Thai; numerous steak houses; plus, Gage Center features restaurants & nightspots.

Attractions: Gage Park – Zoo, Carousel, Mini-Train, Rose Garden; Lake Shawnee – Botanical Gardens, walking trail, paddle boats, golf course, fishing and boating; Old Prairie Town - pioneer village and gardens; Brown v. Board Historic Site & Museum; Kansas Statehouse; Kansas Museum of History.

See Ad on Page 31

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

V I SI T OKC .C OM

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau

The cool is the cosmopolitan feel . . .

The warm is the people

189 West Sheridan, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 297-8912; (800) 225-5652 Fax: (405) 297-8888 www.visitokc.com

Oklahoma City: Cool & Warm Convention & Visitors Bureau Unveils New Advertising Campaign There’s no denying that Oklahoma City is a place of contrasts and combinations. Whether it’s the burgeoning art scene or NBA basketball; family fun or nightlife, Oklahoma City has something for everyone. An advertising campaign recently unveiled by the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau builds on the duality of Oklahoma City and shares the surprises the city holds.

“Most of us have heard someone say that Oklahoma City is so much more than they expected,” said Mike Carrier, president of the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Our new campaign takes that unexpected and creates a truly unique character for our city.”

Produced by Ackerman McQueen Advertising Agency, the campaign is based on research that both the city’s western heritage and cosmopolitan renaissance are strengths. The research recommended a campaign that used the western heritage as a focal point, while introducing the modernization aspect over time.

What developed was the overall theme of Cool & Warm, with the cool and warm being the constant in all the ads. The cool is the cosmopolitan feel, the urban renaissance, the arts and the “buzz” about the city. The warm is the people, the feeling a visitor receives, the western heritage and the culture. The headline in each ad also features a dual theme: Leaps & Bounds, In & Out, Heart & Soul and Fun & Games, to name a few. The headlines reinforce that Oklahoma City is always a surprise and never offers just one thing.

Around the time the campaign was being developed, a New York Times article on Oklahoma City described the city as a fascinating mix of old and new; south and west, proving the duality of the campaign was the perfect fit.

“Our momentum has been growing for years, but with all the things occurring in our city, now is the time to unveil this campaign and share the contrasts that set Oklahoma City apart,” added Carrier.

For more information about Oklahoma City, go to www.visitokc.com or call 800-225-5652.

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Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

New Jersey

Meadowlands Exposition Center

355 Plaza Drive Secaucus, NJ 07094 (201) 330-7773; (888) 400-EXPO Fax: (201) 330-1172 www.mecexpo.com SMG Regional General Manager: Robin Cuneo

“MEC Is Your Cost Efficient Alternative To NYC!” Snapshot: A convenient and costeffective facility in the Northeast, Meadowlands Exposition Center, a ninetime Prime Site Award Winner, features more than 60,000 square feet of dedicated meeting/exhibition space and state-ofthe-art facilities and onsite services.

Meeting Space: 64,758 sq. ft. square feet of contiguous, dedicated exhibit space, including a 61,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 20-foot ceiling heights; accommodations for up to 400 exhibit booths; five

meeting/seminar rooms; flexible lobby for registration, reception or additional exhibit space; Seating for up to 6,000 attendees, concert or theater-style.

Venue Features: T-1,Wireless Internet, satellite uplink support, “flown from the air” electric, teleconferencing capabilities; Catering facilities for up to 5,000 dinner guests; three newly-renovated concession stands; Onsite Decorating Services; 2 drive-in doors and 4 loading docks on street level for easy access; over 3,000 free parking spaces.

Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: 1,000 hotel rooms within walking distance; additional 1,500 rooms within a five-mile radius.

Transportation: Seven miles from Newark Liberty International Airport; adjacent to a network of major highways.

Nearby Attractions: Minutes from Manhattan; surrounded by six major hotels and approximately 40 restaurants and eateries; Meadowlands Sports Complex, which includes Giants Stadium, IZOD Center and the Meadowlands Racetrack.

See ad on page 33

PLAN YOUR NEXT MEETING OR CONVENTION IN A CITY tennessee

Memphis Cook Convention Center 255 North Main Street Memphis, TN 38103-0016 (901)576-1200; (800) 726-0915 Fax: (901) 576-1212 www. memphisconvention.com General Manager: Pierre Landaice

Give Me Memphis Snapshot: Downtown Memphis is coming alive with new growth, and at the heart of Downtown is the Memphis Cook Convention Center. The 300,000-sq.-ft. multi-use convention center is designed especially for conventions, trade shows, and the performing arts. Smack dab on the Downtown Trolley Line and within walking distance of numerous hotels, attractions and world-famous Beale Street, the Memphis Cook Convention Center can meet all your needs.

Meeting Space: More than 300,000

WHERE THE CULTURE IS HIGH-VOLUME AND THE sq. ft. of meeting/exhibit space; a 125,000 sq. ft., column-free Exhibit Hall; 31 meeting rooms; a 28,000 sq. ft. elegantly appointed ballroom; a 35,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall (South Hall); and the new, state-of-the-art 2,100-seat Cannon Center for the Performing Arts.

Hotel Rooms: More than 2,000 hotel rooms within eight blocks of the center.

Transportation: 20 minutes from Memphis International Airport.

Nearby Attractions: National Civil Rights Museum; Soulsville: Stax Museum of American Soul Music; Graceland, Home of Elvis Presley;; Sun Studio; Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous World Famous Ribs; B.B. King’s Blues Club; Beale Street Entertainment District; Overton Square Entertainment District; Delta Blues Museum; Memphis Brooks Museum of Art; Memphis Riverboats; Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum; Mud Island River Park; Center for Southern Folklore; Chucalissa Museum.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

ATTITUDE IS LOW-KEY. OUR ROCK-AND-ROLL ROOTS BLEND HARMONIOUSLY WITH A CLASSIC CULTURAL SCENE FOR EVENT SUCCESS THAT WILL BE MUSIC TO YOUR EARS. THE OKLAHOMA CITY MUSEUM OF ART & THE OKLAHOMA HISTORY CENTER. CAPTIVATING & CASUAL. BOLD & BEAUTIFUL.

V I SI T OKC .C OM

FLORIDA

Orange County Convention Center West Concourse - 9800 International Drive South Concourse - 9899 International Drive North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800 • Fax: (407) 685-9876 • www.occc.net ORLANDO’S ORANGE COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER UNLOCKS THE SECRET TO MEETING SUCCESS It’s simple: superb hospitality, flawless service and total convenience.

These elements define the attendee experience, affecting how they feel, how well they’re able to network and how they perceive the event as a whole. If any one of them falls short, so does the event.

One venue that recognizes this reality is Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center (OCCC). Here, tropical ambiance and colossal space (7 million square feet in two buildings, connected by an open-air pedestrian walkway) are just the beginning. The OCCC also offers an outstanding level of service—one that has cemented the Center’s position among the world’s premier meeting and trade show destinations.

OCCC’s SERVICES OCCC’s broad offering of show management and exhibitor services, ranging from catering to telecommunications, is considered one of the finest in the convention industry, and contributes to the Center’s reputation as one of the best places in the country to hold a meeting.

The Center’s Marketing Executives and Sales Managers are dedicated to providing clients with an experience that is flawless from beginning to end. For every size and type of event, these seasoned professionals provide solutions that exceed everyone’s expectations, and will ensure that your needs are communicated efficiently during the client servicing process.

OCCC’s Event Managers are certified meeting professionals with the highest level of industry experience. They will assist show managers with planning the logistical details of their convention, trade show or special event. Serving as the main conduit for OCCC communication and information – before, during and after the show – these dedicated team members ensure the most complete, productive and enjoyable experience for both show planners and attendees.

For the optimum exhibitor experience, OCCC Show Managers and exhibitors turn to the Center’s Exhibitor Services Department. Individual Exhibitor Service Representatives assigned to every OCCC event will ensure total satisfaction. Beyond the services offered on the show floor, 40

Tropical ambiance and colossal space are just the beginning.

this team can provide custom web pages hosted by the OCCC, bonus amenities for your Top 20 Exhibitors, and coordination of pre-event meetings. For maximum convenience, the OCCC’s Exhibitor Mobile Connection brings the capabilities of a service desk directly to the show floor, where roaming EMC representatives will respond to exhibitor requests on the spot, so they never have to leave their booths for assistance.

OCCC’s GOLD KEY PARTNERS The OCCC is also proud to be the only convention center in the country to partner with the world’s most famous theme parks—Universal Orlando Resort®and WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort®.

With offices right on-site, OCCC’s Gold Key Partners are always available to help show management and their exhibitors plan dynamic entertainment and events. From theme park tickets to private events at theme parks and resorts, plus entertainment and networking opportunities at a variety of amazing on-site venues and dining complexes, OCCC’s Gold Key Partners will help make any Orlando meeting experience unforgettable.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS Orlando, Florida, a city already renowned for its world-class hospitality, entertainment and business offerings, is adding to its appeal with a number of new developments in the Orange County Convention Center area.

Upon completion, the following developments will add nearly 2,150 rooms to Orlando’s current 113,000-room inventory, making this center of hospitality more welcoming than ever.

Hilton Orlando Hotel: The beautiful new 1,400-room Hilton Orlando Hotel opened recently and is the first hotel to connect to the Center’s South Concourse by a pedestrian sky bridge.

Peabody Hotel: The Peabody Orlando has broken ground on a 750-room expansion this fall, adding a 32-story, 750-room guest tower. Plans include two pedestrian bridges, connecting the hotel with the Convention Center’s North/South and West Concourses.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

ORLANDO Orange County Convention Center

The Center of Hospitality, where it’s all about your experience.

Partnering for Excellence On-site Service Partners Centerplate – Catering Cosby’s Corporate Massage Services FedEx Kinko’s – Business Centers Scootaround Mobility Services for all your mobility needs SmartCity – Telecommunications and Internet Service iStreamPlanet – Webcasting LMG – Audio Visual Services

www.occc.net

TM

To discover what the Orange County Convention Center can do for you, call the OCCC’s Sales Department at 1-800-345-9845 or email info@occc.net.

Bags – Skycap and Valet Services

On-site Gold Key Partners Universal Orlando Resort® WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort

P.O. Box 691509 • Orlando, Florida 32869-1509 Phone: 407-685-9800 • Toll Free: 1-800-345-9845

RHODe ISLAND

PROVIDENCE WARWICK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 144 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02903 Phone: (401) 456-0200; Fax: (401) 273-7046 • www.GoProvidence.com

Providence, Rhode Island: The Creative Capital

P

rovidence, Rhode Island is a vibrant Northeastern city, where original thinking is expansive and every experience is personal, so you are free to create. Hailed as one of the “Top 10 Up-andComing Travel Destinations in the World” by The Wall Street Journal, Providence is an ideal location for any meeting. The city, both hip and historic, offers a broad spectrum of dining, shopping, arts and entertainment options – all within walking distance of each other.

The Rhode Island Convention & Entertainment Complex stands in the heart of Providence, and includes the Rhode Island Convention Center (RICC), the Dunkin’ Donuts Center (Dunk) and the Veterans Memorial Auditorium Arts & Cultural Center (VMA).

The RICC consists of a 100,000 contiguous square-foot exhibition hall, a 20,000-square-foot ballroom, 23 meeting rooms, and the Rotunda Room which provides spectacular views of the city. There are also two adjacent garages with 2,400 parking spaces.

The recently renovated 13,000-seat Dunk arena is now connected to the RICC via a skywalk. The Dunk added more than 35,000 square feet and features 31,000 square feet of arena space, a ceiling height of 90 feet, a 25,000 square-foot concourse, a new 12,000square-foot lobby, two party suites, two loges, a new restaurant, and five renovated meeting/hospitality rooms.

The 1,900-seat VMA, a historic performing arts venue, is the newest addition to the Rhode Island Convention Center’s family.

This easily accessible theater is known for its unique combination of size and intimacy, superb acoustics and great sight lines.

42

The city, both hip and historic, offers a broad spectrum of dining, shopping, arts and entertainment options

The VMA is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Complex is conveniently located within one mile of 2,200 hotel rooms, and there are a total of 5,500 rooms available in the Greater Providence area. Providence’s newest hotel, the 110-room Hampton Inn & Suites Providence, opened in the spring of 2009.

Located between New York City and Boston, Providence is easily accessible for event attendees, and about 25 percent of the United States’ population lives within 500 miles of the city. The Amtrak train station is located within walking distance of the Complex, and offers rail service throughout the Northeast Corridor.

Nearby Warwick, Rhode Island features miles of scenic coastline and spectacular views, and offers additional hotel, dining, shopping and entertainment options. For those flying into Providence, Warwick’s T.F. Green Airport is just a short, 10-minute drive from downtown.

Recognized as one of the nation’s hottest culinary destinations, Providence is home to the renowned culinary school, Johnson & Wales University. Many of the university’s chefs remain in Providence after graduation, which is reflected in the city’s dining scene. Restaurants specialize in a variety of cuisines, but the city is perhaps most famous for its Italian food, with the Federal Hill section of Providence named “One of the Five Best Little Italys in the U.S.” by Food Network Chef Mario Batali.

A top-notch destination, exceptional service from a team of seasoned CVB professionals, and an array of appealing attractions, venues and experiences, allow planners to “create” a unique and memorable program for their delegates in Providence ...

The Creative Capital.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

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The Ocean Center center,board board room, room, cyber cyber café, café, box box a is FLORIDA Meeting Space: 72 meeting rooms; Guide Guide sGuide Planner Guide currently undergoing a $76-million offices, offices,concierge concierge desks, desks, concession concession 21,252-sq.-ft.

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ing 94,695-sq.-ft.

Hall.

International International Boat BoatMain Show ShowExhibit (Largest (Largest inin United UnitedStates) States)and andft; North North America’s Arena: 42,000 sq.

9,500America’s seats. most mostimportant importantcontemporary contemporaryart artfair, fair, Hotel Rooms: 13,000 Art ArtBasel BaselMiami MiamiBeach.

Beach.

Transportation: 5 miles from Daytona Meeting MeetingSpace: Space:127,000 127,000sq. sq.ft., ft.,includincludBeach International Airport trade and andpublic public shows shows such suchas: as:Cruise Cruise ing ingtrade 72 72meeting meeting rooms, rooms, 22,000-sq.-ft.

22,000-sq.-ft.

Space that can be configured as one Attractions: The Daytona area Shipping ShippingMiami, Miami, South SouthBeach Florida Florida Ballroom.

Ballroom. large expanse of exhibit space, or Exhibit Space: 173,767 ft., includis home to 23 miles of sparkling International International Auto Auto Show, Show,sq.

Miami Miami Exhibition Exhibition Space: Space: 130,000-sq.-ft.

130,000-sq.-ft. subdivided four separate halls, Hall. beaches; topinto notch golf and tennis ing 94,695-sq.-ft.

Main Exhibit International International Boat Boat Show Show (Largest (Largest Exhibit Exhibit Hall( Hall(502,000 502,000 sq. sq. ft. ft.of of exhibit exhibit inin including HALL A - North 119,970 sq. ft. facilities including LPGA United United States) States)and and America’s center center inincenter. center.

Arena: 42,000 sq. ft;North 9,500America’s seats.

International and the United States HALL Bimportant - 117,648 sq. ft., HALL Cfair, most most important contemporary contemporary art art fair, Technology: Wifi, Video Video Hotel Rooms: 13,000 Tennis Association’s Florida -Technology: 132,240 sq.Wifi, ft., HALL D -Tennis 132,990 Art Art Basel Basel Miami Miami Beach.

Beach.

Conferencing, Conferencing, Video Video Broadcasting, Broadcasting, Center; Daytona Lagoon; Ocean Walk sq.Transportation: ft.

5 miles from Daytona Webcasting.

Webcasting.

Meeting Meeting Space: Space: 127,000 127,000 sq. sq.restauft., ft.,includincludShoppes; several new spas and Beach International Airport Venue Features: unlimited floor load ing ingunique 72 72 meeting meeting rooms, rooms, 22,000-sq.-ft.

22,000-sq.-ft. rants, shopping, and an board array Venue Venue Features: Features: Business Business center; center; board capacity, and 35-foot ceilings; StateAttractions: The Daytona Beach area of family and cultural attractions; Ballroom.

Ballroom. room; room; cyber cyber café; café; concierge concierge desks; desks;concesconcesof-the-art telecommunications to the suit isstands; home to 23offices; milesskywalk of sparkling Daytona International Speedway; sion sion stands; show show offices; skywalk with with an an Exhibition Exhibition Space: Space:130,000-sq.-ft.

130,000-sq.-ft. every need.view beaches; topCenter; notch golf and tennis News-Journal the historic unrestricted unrestricted view of of all all four four halls. halls.

Exhibit ExhibitHall( Hall(502,000 502,000sq. sq.ft. ft.ofofexhibit exhibit oceanfront Bandshell and Oceanfront facilities including LPGA Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Guest Guest Rooms: Rooms: 2,000 2,000hotel hotel rooms rooms withwithcenter center incenter. center.

Park; the in Mary McLeod International and theBethune United States 6,000. in inwalking walkingdistance. distance.

Technology: Technology: Wifi, Wifi, Video Video Performing Arts Center; Peabody Tennis Association’s Floridafrom Tennis Transportation: Only International minutes Transportation: Transportation: Miami Miami International Auditorium.

Conferencing, Conferencing, Video Video Broadcasting, Broadcasting, Center; Daytona Lagoon; Miami International Airport. Ocean Walk AirportAirport15 15 Minutes.

Minutes.

Webcasting.

Webcasting.

See Ad on Page 58 new spas and restauShoppes; several Attractions: Ocean Drive, Attractions: Attractions: Atlantic Atlantic Ocean; Ocean;Lincoln Lincoln Lincoln rants, shopping, and an board array Venue Venueunique Features: Features: Business Business center; center; board Road, South Beach Art Deco Road Road Mall; Mall; Miami Miami Beach Beach Golf Golf Club; Club; of family and cultural attractions; room; room; cyber cyber café; café; concierge concierge desks; desks;concesconcesJungle Jungle Island; Island; American American Airlines Airlines District, white sandy beaches, and Daytona International Speedway; sion sionstands; stands; show showoffices; offices;skywalk skywalkwith withthe an an Arena.

Arena. renowned dining and entertainment.

News-Journal thehalls. historic unrestricted unrestrictedview viewCenter; ofofall allfour four halls.

Guest GuestRooms: Rooms:2,000 2,000hotel hotelrooms roomswithwithPark; the Mary McLeod Bethune ininwalking walkingdistance. distance.

Performing Arts Center; Peabody Transportation: Transportation:Miami MiamiInternational International Auditorium.

AirportAirport-15 15Minutes.

Minutes.

See Ad on Page 58 Attractions: Attractions:Atlantic AtlanticOcean; Ocean;Lincoln Lincoln Road RoadMall; Mall;Miami MiamiBeach BeachGolf GolfClub; Club; Jungle JungleIsland; Island;American AmericanAirlines Airlines Arena.

Arena.

See See ad adon onpage page43 43 oceanfront Bandshell and Oceanfront

See Seead adon onpage page43 43

Boardrooms and VIP Suite; 19,000-sq.ft. pre-function area, 11,000-sq.-ft.terrace; 31,500-sq.-ft.. fenced grass Pavilion; 10,000-sq.-ft. Grand Lobby with 75’ vaulted ceiling.

P L A N N E R G U I D E S

Venue Features: Internet and wifi; plasma sma state-of-the-art audio and visual sysnal tional tems available throughout the center; dnon fully equipped, 5,000-sq.-ft. kitchen 13 13 FLORIDA th capable of gourmet service for over with Geraldine Bordelon Guide uide Guide Planner Guide dio 3,000 guests; the center has on-site audio on PRIME F. OSBORN III BATON ROGUE AREA nd Boardrooms and VIP Suite;cars, 19,000-sq.parking for 860 Parking spaces ehow show s CONVENTION CENTER CONVENTION ft.4,000 pre-function area, 11,000-sq.-ft.AND with additional spaces within sall1000 Water Street neral com ce, easyterrace; walking31,500-sq.-ft.. distance. fenced grass lecom VISITORS BUREAU Jacksonville, FL 32204 estauPavilion; 10,000-sq.-ft.

Grand Lobby ered Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: ➤ New 70,000-square-foot (904) 630-4000; Fax: (904) 630-4029 site iness uwith five 75’hall vaulted d onWithin miles of ceiling. over 1,500 hotel Facility Director: Jim Pritchard exhibition s. www.jaxevents.com rooms; 22,425 in the Internet Northeastand Florida Venue Features: wifi; ➤ 9,000 hotel rooms Region. asma ms: ma state-of-the-art audio and visual sys➤ Arnold Palmer-designed The Bluffs s.

Snapshot: When it was built in 1919, onTransportation: alms.

20throughout minutes away onal tems available thefrom center; Thompson Creek golf course do Jacksonville Terminal was the railroad International Airport.kitchen on fully equipped, 5,000-sq.-ft. ando Page:Jacksonville 50 gateway to Florida. Now it is completehith capable of gourmet service for over Nearby Attractions: Jacksonville ly restored and renovated. Where the o 3,000 guests; center hasBeaches. on-site Walt udio Landing; Zoo; St.the Augustine; ld, trains once ran on time, boat shows, PRIME F. OSBORN III BATON ROGUE ow parking for 860 ParkingAREA spaces cars, show opping; conventions, trade shows,CENTER banquets, and CONVENTION AND CONVENTION with 4,000 additional spaces within meetings run like clockwork. With 1000 Waternow Street m easy walkingBUREAU distance.

John Robertson ecom VISITORS 265,000 square feet of space, the Prime Jacksonville, FL 32204 ed CHARLESTON Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Osborn Convention Center is large ➤ New 70,000-square-foot (904) 630-4000; Fax: (904) 630-4029 teonenough Director: andCIVIC versatile to accomWithin fivehall miles of over 1,500 hotel Facility Jimenough Pritchard CENTER exhibition modate gatherings of virtually any size, www.jaxevents.com rooms; 22,425 in the Northeast Florida ➤ 50,000-sq.-ft.Grand ➤ 9,000 hotel rooms small or large. Convention Hall Region. : ➤ Arnold Palmer-designed The Bluffs Meeting Space: 156,184 ft. of total ms.

Snapshot: When it was sq. built in 1919, onTransportation: ➤ 4,000+hotel rooms 20 minutes away from Thompson Creek golf course meeting space; 78,500 sq. of contiguondo Jacksonville wasftRacetrack the railroad Jacksonville International Airport. ➤Terminal Tri-State Page: 50 ous exhibit 100,000 total: gateway to space; Florida.

Now sq. it Center isft.complete& Gaming Nearby Attractions: Jacksonville canrestored fit 450 10x10’ booths inWhere contiguous ly and renovated. the Page: 57 Walt Landing; Zoo; St. Augustine; Beaches. space, 550 total; 2 Executive d, trains once ran on time, boat shows, pping; conventions, trade shows, banquets, and meetings now run like clockwork. With 61 The Southeast Facilities 265,000 square feet of space, the Prime& Destinations 2009 SuperBook CHARLESTON Osborn Convention Center is large KANSAS enough andCIVIC versatile enough to accomCENTER enough for 150 people. Two other modate gatherings of virtually any size, ➤ 50,000-sq.-ft.Grand rooms measure 20’ x 44’ and accommosmall or large. Convention Hall date up to 100 people each; versatile Meeting Space: 156,184 sq. ft. of total Arena converts easily into an excellent ➤ 4,000+hotel rooms paces meeting space; 78,500 sq. ftRacetrack of contiguauditorium, theater, sports facility, or ➤ Tri-State reen ous exhibit 100,000 sq.2009 ft. total:Planner Facilities & space; Destinations Guidehall with over 21,000 square exhibition Some & Gaming Center can fit 450 10x10’ booths in contiguous feet of floor space (104’ x 203’), a 48h an Page: 57 space, 550 total; 2 Executive foot ceiling (maximum to steel), and HS

Mississippi

Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center 2350 Beach Boulevard Biloxi, Mississippi 39531 (228) 896-6699 www.gulfcoast.org Director of Sales: Crystal Johnson

“Relax. It’s the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”

Snapshot: One of the few beachfront convention centers in North America, the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center offers over 450,000 sq. ft. of newly expanded and renovated exhibit and meeting space. After the meeting, your delegates can enjoy gaming, golf, dining and shopping.

Meeting Space: 22 meeting/breakout rooms; 57,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom.

Exhibit Space: 129,500 sq. ft.

Theater: 9,000-seats; 30,000 sq. ft.

Technology: 94 Wireless Access Points; Digital and Analog Lines; 3G Technology; Peer-to-Peer Networking; Web Browsing/Internet; Webcasting; 11 Manned Switches.

Lodging: 5,000 committable rooms; 18,000 total rooms.

Destination: 11 Casino Resorts; 26 miles of White Sand Beach; Water sports and Beach Rentals Sports Complex; Equestrian Facilities Transportation: Gulfport/Biloxi International Airport is 12 miles from facility.

Attractions: Emeril’s Gulf Coast Fish House & other Celebrity Chef restaurants; Mary Mahoney’s featured in John Grisham novels); Signature Golf Courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, and Jerry Pate; Entertainment at Casinos and Coliseum Arena; Frank Gehry-designed OhrO’Keefe Museum; Walter Anderson Museum; Charter Fishing Fleet; Sailing on Biloxi Schooners; Water Parks; Shrimping Tour.

See ad on page 35

P L A N N E R G U I D E S Geraldine Bordelon

John Robertson

43

Puerto rico convention center

Smooth

CONVENTION CENTER FACILITIES

MEETING ROOMS – level 2

Total Space:

580,000 gross sq ft 53,882 gross sq m

Meeting Rooms:

15 individual rooms that subdivide into 28 breakout rooms

Total Exhibit Space:

152,700 sq ft 14,186 sq m subdivides into three halls, all on one level.

Level 1:

Four rooms that subdivide into 10 rooms

Level 2:

Eleven rooms that subdivide into 18 rooms

Capacity:

From 80 to 500 attendees using theater

Ceiling Height:

Seven at 15 ft / 4.6 m and eight at 16 ft / 4.9 m

Mezzanine Suite:

4,000 sq ft / 372 sq m function space for over 400 attendees overlooking exhibit floor

Meeting Space:

36,200 sq ft / 3,363 sq m 15 rooms on two levels, 28 breakout rooms

Ballroom Space:

39,500 sq ft / 3,670 sq m subdivides into two sections

Public Circulation and Concourses:

96,000 sq ft / 8,928 sq m

Support, Service and Administration:

200,000 sq ft / 18,580 sq m

BALLROOM – level 3 Ballroom:

One divisible into two sections, one section at 14,000 sq ft / 1,301 sq m and one at 25,500 sq ft / 2,369 sq m

EXHIBIT HALL – level 1

Dimensions:

145 ft / 44.2 m x 278 ft / 84.7 m

Total Exhibit Space:

152,700 sq ft / 14,186 sq m

Capacity:

4,388 theater; 3,290 banquet; 4,158 reception

Exhibit Halls:

Main hall subdivides into three halls: one at 40,900 gross sq ft / 3,800 gross sq m, one at 40,500 sq ft / 3,762 gross sq m, and one at 71,300 gross sq ft / 6,624 sq m

Ceiling Height:

From 26 ft / 7.9 m to 45 ft / 13.7 m

Terrace:

12,800 sq ft / 1,189 sq m of space with an open view to the San Juan Bay

Dimensions:

268 ft / 82 m x 574 ft / 175 m

Capacity:

16,965 theater; 12,710 banquet; 16,075 reception

LOCATION – Centrally located in Isla Grande, San Juan, the gateway to all that Puerto Rico has to offer.

Ceiling Height:

30 ft / 9.1 m

Largest Access Door:

22 ft / 6.7 m wide x 27 ft / 8.2 m H

Convenient to Old San Juan, Condado, Hato Rey, and Isla Verde, as well as Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport.

For more information call: 1-800-214-o420 email info@prconvention.com or visit www.prconvention.com

don’t mistake high design for high cost.

Smooth bottom line

range of hotels & venues

convenient access

state-of-the-art technology

PRCB at your service

no passport required for U.S. citizens

Even if you have to sharpen your pencil you can have your event in a cutting edge facility.

The Puerto Rico Convention Center has matured quickly in just five years. It is 580,000 square feet of everything you need. Visit us and see why so many important meetings have already happened here. Call 800-214-0420. budget friendly

PRCONVENTION.COM

Managed by SMG

New York

New York state’s only one-stop convention facility

Rochester Riverside Convention Center 123 East Main Street, Rochester, NY 14564 • (585) 232-7200 • Fax: (585) 232-1510 • www.rrcc.com

C

onveniently located in the heart of Rochester, N.Y., the Rochester Riverside Convention Center enjoys a scenic setting on the Genesee River with outdoor patios and balconies providing wonderful views.

It also offers the convenience of enclosed walkway connections to large hotels and parking garages.

center of the city. There is a 362-room Rochester Plaza, 465-room Radisson, which just completed a $6-million renovation of its facility, and 336-room Hyatt Regency. Delegates also enjoy the convenience of walking between hotels and the Convention Center in minutes using the enclosed skywalk system or scenic riverside walkway.

Technological Features Located in a community known around the world for its high-tech expertise, the Rochester Riverside gets high marks for handling all types of technology needs. The Riverside Convention has upgraded to a dedicated internet connection over Fiber Optics to meet all of the growing number of technical requirements our customers have. This service is available wireless throughout the facility and is Scalable from 5MB o 1 GB.

Pier 45 Experience the eclectic atmosphere of Pier 45! Rochester Riverside’s newest dining experience, located on the city’s spectacular waterfront along the shores of Lake Ontario.You’ll find everything from a light tapas style menu to a full dinner service, large-scale gourmet desserts, a fully stocked custom bar and an inviting veranda that accommodates both planned events and impromptu get-togethers.

Other Features “We routinely offer services not found at most other convention centers,” says Executive Director Joseph A. Floreano, CFE. “One example is our in-house food and beverage operation, including two pastry chefs. In addition, our Riverside Productions and Riverside Catering divisions can even assist groups utilizing space in other places throughout the region. Basically, we are New York state’s only one-stop convention facility.” With Rochester’s 12 colleges and universities, world-famous corporations, and growing number of hightech firms, there are also plenty of local speakers and other resources available from this combination of educational, business and research expertise.

Personalized service and a can-do attitude are additional features that meeting planners really appreciate. According to Dr. Steven E. Schopp, Executive Administrator of the New York State School Music Association, “What I most enjoy about working with the Rochester Riverside Convention Center—aside from a general professionalism that is the rule rather than the exception—is the friendly, positive attitude of staff at every level. These are people I like to work with and that, combined with a first-class facility, makes the Riverside an outstanding convention venue.”

Nearby Attractions Several entertainment districts surround the Rochester Riverside with restaurants, cafés, coffee houses, pubs, dance clubs, music halls, theatres and more. Rochester also boasts numerous museums, including the George Eastman House International Museum of Photography & Film, the Susan B. Anthony House and the acclaimed Strong National Museum of Play, which also houses the National Toy Hall of Fame. Waterway attractions include the historic Erie Canal, Corn Hill Landing and the beaches of Lake Ontario.

Hotel Rooms More than 1,100 rooms in a trio of major hotels connect with the Rochester Riverside Convention Center to create a compact convention district in the 46

Destination Features Rochester is the northern gateway to the magnificent Finger Lakes region with its rolling hills, lush valleys and 11 namesake lakes. It is also a region becoming famous for its more than 100 vineyards, excellent wines and numerous “wine trails.” With the recent addition of the New York Wine and Culinary Center in nearby Canandaigua, the wineries and farmer’s markets of the Finger Lakes region offer delegates meeting in Rochester wonderful day trip options for pre- or post-conference enjoyment.

Distance to Airport The Greater Rochester International Airport—150 flights daily—is an easy, stress-free, 10-minute drive from the Rochester Riverside Convention Center’s front door.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Puerto Rico

Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel & Casino

For unforgettable fun and excitement, you only need to take a short stroll from your room.

200 Convention Boulevard, San Juan, PR 00907 (787) 993-3500; (800) 325-3535 • Fax: (787) 993-3525 www.sheraton.com/puertoricoconventioncenter

L

ocated in the Puerto Rico Convention District between the airport and historic Old San Juan, the new Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino offers the perfect retreat for your next association gathering.

The hotel is ideally situated to offer both convenience and an atmosphere of inspiration. There’s no passport required to land in San Juan, and the hotel is just a short drive from the airport. You and your guests will be just moments from the renowned shopping, dining and entertainment of Old San Juan.

However, for unforgettable fun and excitement, you only need to take a short stroll from your room. The onsite casino features 16 gaming tables, 500 of the latest slot machines and exceptional entertainment options. Within the convention center area is also home to numerous dining, shopping and nightlife venues.

The state-of-the-art facility can easily accommodate every event, from the largest gatherings to most intimate meetings. Within the hotel, you’ll find 35,000 square feet of flexible function spaces throughout nine distinctive meeting spaces. The expansive 17,000square-foot San Juan Grand Ballroom can easily accommodate as many as 1,800 guests. And for a more casual atmosphere, a 57,000square-foot outdoor sundeck is available to take advantage of the beautiful tropical weather.

The adjacent Puerto Rico Convention Center offers an additional 580,000 square feet of exhibit and meeting space. The center is one of the largest and most technologically advanced in the Caribbean and welcomes groups of as many as 10,000.

Getting down to business is a pleasure at the Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino. The hotel is the first in the Caribbean to offer The Link @ Sheraton, featuring highspeed Internet access in a comfortable setting—so it’s easy and rewarding to stay in touch with the office, family or friends. A fullservice Business Center is also equipped with a wide range of office machines and services for any last minute or unexpected needs.

When your event adjourns, your guests will relax and enjoy the

48

tropical locale with a wide range of great amenities and services.

You’ll find an expansive four-story-high sun deck with amazing views across the Bay of San Juan. An infinity pool, whirlpool and adults-only wading pool offer great outdoor fun. To help you stay in shape when you’re on the road, the hotel offers a fully equipped fitness center, as well as a rejuvenating, full-service spa with six treatment rooms.

For your dining pleasure, you’ll find exceptional catering options from our experienced culinary team. Several additional restaurants are also available onsite, including a poolside bar & grill to help everyone make the most of their relaxation time.

As the day draws to a close, you’ll retire to 503 spacious and revitalizing guest rooms in Puerto Rico. Our contemporary rooms and suites offer high-speed Internet access, large flat screen televisions, single-cup coffee brewers, well-lit work areas and the signature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper® Bed. For an added level of convenience, guests can upgrade to the exclusive Club Level rooms, each featuring a private outdoor terrace and upgraded in-room amenities, as well as access to a private lounge.

The Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino invites you to come experience a new approach to Caribbean events.

Complete an RFP online at sheraton.com/puertoricoconventioncent er or call (787) 993-3500.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Mixing business with pleasure is invited. The new Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino, opening November 2009. Where you’ll find 35,000 square feet for meeting and achieving, as well as a world-class casino, rejuvenating spa, refreshing outdoor pool, numerous dining experiences and fabulous shopping in one exotic locale. You don’t just stay here. You belong.

Book today at Sheraton.com/puertoricoconventioncenter or call 787-993-3500.

© 2009 Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved. Sheraton is a registered trademark of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., or its affiliates.

Virginia

Virginia Beach Convention Center 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (757) 385-4700; (800) 700-7702 Fax: (757) 437-4747 www.vbmeetings.com

offering first-class amenities in a metropolitan coastal environment.

V

irginia Beach is an affordable meeting destination, offering first-class amenities in a metropolitan coastal environment.

Just blocks from where the sand meets the sea, meeting-goers will discover the 500,000-sq.-ft. Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Fully opened in 2007 and serviced by a seasoned, award-winning staff offering competitive rates, the facility features a 150,000-sq.-ft., column-free exhibit hall, 31,000-sq.-ft. ballroom, 29,000-sq.-ft. of meeting space and 2,230 free parking spaces.

This year-round city boasts 12,000 hotel rooms citywide and 3,500 committable rooms within a two-mile radius of the Convention Center. Fall, winter and spring offer additional value with a mild climate and a multitude of diverse destination amenities.

New hotel properties include the oceanfront SpringHill Suites by Marriott and Hampton Inn, and the Westin Town Center. Virginia Beach recently approved a master plan for new development in the resort area. Upcoming projects include a convention center headquarters hotel, a new entertainment center and a vibrant new corridor connecting the convention center and entertainment.

For unique off-site venues, experience a dramatic event under the atrium’s vaulted ceiling at the Contemporary Art Center of Virginia, which can accommodate 350 guests, or the live shark and sea turtle galleries at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, which can host 2,000. The Aquarium’s new $25-million renovation, Restless Planet opened November 2009 featuring habitats and animals that chronicle Virginia’s ecological history.

For nightlife and premier dining, visit Virginia Beach’s downtown area, Town Center. The 15-floor full service Westin Town Center hotel features 236 guest rooms and 16,000-sq.-ft. of meeting space including an 8,300-sq.-ft. ballroom and 6,000-sq.-ft. pre function lobby. Adjacent to the Westin is the soaring façade of the new 50

Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. The 1,300-seat theater’s warm wood accents and brushed metals create an intimate setting, with the furthest seat only 100 ft. from the stage. Aloft hotel will open at Town Center in 2012.

A Virginia Green Destination, Virginia Beach has made a commitment to provide environmentally-friendly alternatives for meetings and conventions. Over 100 Virginia Green certified hospitality businesses include the Convention Center, hotels, restaurants, attractions and events. The Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is actively pursuing the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification for the Convention Center and anticipates receiving this designation in spring 2010. The CVB has a LEED Accredited Professional on staff to coordinate these efforts. Other environmental initiatives include an oceanfront recycling program and new hybrid electric shuttle buses that serve as the resort’s seasonal transportation system. A social responsibility partnership with the United Way also provides meeting attendees a chance to give back to the community, identifying agencies in need and coordinating activities for groups of 10 or more.

Centrally located on the East Coast, Virginia Beach is within a day’s drive of two-thirds of America’s population. Norfolk International Airport is just 20 minutes from the oceanfront and offers 200 flights daily including most major airline carriers.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

wisconsin

ft Ballroom. The 68,000 sq. ft. of rooftop gardens can be reserved for events.

Venue Features: Wireless access is available throughout Monona Terrace with excellent coverage; Monona Terrace is one of only a handful of convention centers offering Internet 2 access; Special amenities include a greeter at the main entrance to assist guests, business center, gift shop, art/ exhibit area and expansive areas for Monona Terrace registration and information needs.

Convention Center Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: One John Nolen Drive 240-room attached Hilton Madison, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 261-4100; Fax: (608) 261-4049 1,000 rooms within walking distance of www.mononaterrace.com Monona Terrace, more than 8,000 hotel Sales/Event Services Manager: rooms are available to groups in Madison.

Laura Cornell, CMP Transportation: Madison is accessible “Where business and inspiration meet.” by air from every major metro area in Snapshot: The Frank Lloyd Wrightthe country and is served by the Dane designed Monona Terrace Community County Regional Airport. Monona and Convention Center is located in heart Terrace is a 10-minute drive from the of Madison’s vibrant downtown on the airport. shore of Lake Monona. This spectacular Attractions: The State Capitol buildmulti-level structure features public ing. Museum Mile offers six fascinating promenades, meeting rooms with striking museums, plus several art galleries for lake views, extensive rooftop gardens and browsers and the attached Hilton Madison. collectors alike.

Meeting Space: 250,000-sq.-ft., 5-level State Street facility; 85,000 sq. ft. of meeting/exhibit – Madison’s space; 23 meeting rooms; 40,000-sq.famed pedesft. Main Exhibit Hall; 5,540-sq.-ft. trian mall.

Lecture Hall, seating 320; 14,000-sq.-

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau

189 West Sheridan, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 297-8912; (800) 225-5652 Fax: (405) 297-8888 www.visitokc.com Director of Convention Sales & Services: Elizabeth Richardson (405) 297-8952 • erichardson@okccvb.org

Snapshot: Oklahoma City has it all—from the historic Old West in Stockyards City to the vibrant energy of Bricktown, the city’s lively entertainment district. Our museums hold artistic treasures and our sports venues have something for everyone. Choices abound for an experience you’ll cherish.

Main Meeting Venue: Cox Convention Center (405-602-8500; www.coxconventioncenter.com) — 100,000 sq. ft. Exhibit Hall can be divided into 8 smaller halls or combined with the Arena floor for 132,000 sq. ft. of total

52

exhibit space; 105,000 sq. ft. Meeting Room complex with 21 meeting rooms and a 25,000 sq. ft. Ballroom; 15,000-seat Arena. General Manager - Gary Dejardins.

Venue Features: wireless internet service and access speeds up to one Gigabit available; four (4) FREE prefunction wi-fi zones; meeting rooms and ballroom equipped with state-ofthe-art audio-visual equipment; SMG Video Conferencing Services available.

Hotel Rooms: 1,680 rooms in Downtown Oklahoma City and 15,000 citywide.

Transportation: 10 miles/15 minutes from Will Rogers World Airport.

Nearby Attractions: Bricktown Dining & Entertainment District—a vibrant urban neighborhood with a variety of new canal-side restaurants, clubs, music venues and attractions, OKC National Memorial & Museum, Oklahoma City Museum of Art; Myriad Botanical Gardens; AT&T Bricktown Ballpark; Ford Center; Civic Center Music Hall; Oklahoma City Zoo; National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

See Ads on Pages 37,39

Virginia

Norfolk Convention and Visitors Bureau 232 East Main Street, Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 664-6620; (800) 368-3097 Fax: (757) 622-3663 www.visitnorfolktoday.com Vice President of Sales and Marketing: Donna Allen

Snapshot: Located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic, Norfolk is a compact meetings destination with hotels and convention facilities a short walk from a sparkling waterfront dotted with trendy restaurants, arts districts, museums, patriotic attractions and shopping. Once you arrive in Norfolk, get around town the smart way with the FREE Norfolk Electric Transit (NET) shuttle. Meeting Space: The Waterside Convention Connection which also includes - Norfolk Waterside Marriott, Sheraton Norfolk Waterside, the Crowne Plaza Norfolk and the Waterside Festival Marketplace – features 1,200+ first-class rooms and suites, 55 meeting rooms and 121,000 square-feet of convention space.

And, just blocks away is Norfolk Scope Arena - with an additional 85,000 square-feet of meeting space. The Norfolk International Airport area offers a quality selection of hotels including the Hilton Norfolk Airport, Holiday Inn Select Norfolk Airport, American’s Best Value Inn, Military Circle, Days Inn, Ramada Norfolk Airport, Residence Inn

by Marriott and the Hampton Inn and Suites. The Lake Wright area is 5 miles from the airport and includes Quality Suites and Sleep Inn hotels.

Technology: Wired and wireless highspeed Internet access in all public areas, guest rooms and meeting rooms.

Hotel Rooms: Approximately 5,000 city-wide.

Transportation: Norfolk International Airport.

Attractions: MacArthur Center Mall, Chrysler Museum of Art, Hermitage Foundation Museum, Hunter House Victorian Museum, MacArthur Memorial, Norfolk Tides AAA Baseball at Harbor Park, Schooner Virginia, The Norfolk History Museum at the Willoughby- Baylor House, Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise, Virginia Zoological Park, Norfolk Admirals AHL Hockey.

See Ad on Page 36

florida

Orange County Convention Center

West Concourse - 9800 International Drive; South Concourse - 9899 International Drive; North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd.

Orlando, FL 32819 (407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800 Fax: (407) 685-9876 www.occc.net Senior Director/Sales, Marketing, Event Management and Exhibitor Services: Yulita Osuba

“The Center of Hospitality” Snapshot: Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) ranks as the nation’s second largest convention facility, featuring 7 million sq. ft. of combined meeting and public space in two remarkable facilities.The Center is located in one of the most beautiful and entertaining places in the world—Orlando.

Meeting/Exhibition space: 74 meeting rooms/235 breakout rooms; 62,182-sq.-

ft. multi-purpose room; 2,643-seat Chapin Theater and a 160-seat lecture hall. 2.1 million sq. ft. of exhibition space, 1.1 million sq. ft. of which is contiguous; two 92,000 sq. foot general assembly areas; three full-service restaurants; 8 food courts; and three business centers.

Venue Features: WIFI; interior plasma directional monitors; DMS directional signs on Universal Boulevard and on International Drive; DMS signs with video feed capabilities; in-house audio & intercom system; direct on-line show management & exhibitor services ordering; internet café set-ups; telecom & webcasting services; three covered loading docks; 173 truck bays; and on-site parking for 6,227.

Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Surrounded by 113,000 hotel rooms.

Transportation: 12 miles to Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Attractions: Universal Orlando® Resort and Walt Disney World® Resort; SeaWorld - Orlando; upscale shopping; 10,000 fine dining seats.

See ad on Page 41

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Puerto Rico

style, 4,158 reception style and 2,616 classroom style; 152,700 sq. ft. of exhibit space, including one Exhibit Hall which subdivides into three halls: 40,900 sq. ft., 40,500 sq. ft. and 71,300 sq. ft.; 16,965-seat theater.

Venue Features: Wireless (Wifi) in hot spot areas; Meeting rooms with High Speed Internet and Fluorescent Systems with Dimming Capabilities; Columnfree Ballroom; Business Center; Floor Boxes with Track Lighting, Water, Air, Puerto Rico Voice and Data Outlets; Telephone Convention Center Access in the Meeting rooms, Ballroom Edificio Ochoa, 500 Tanca, Suite 402 and Exhibit Hall.

San Juan, PR 00901 (800) 214-0420; Fax: (787) 725-2133 Convention/Guest Rooms: Over www.prconvention.com 7,000 at a short distance.

Associate Vice President Sales: Transportation: seven miles from Luis Rosa M. Luke, info@prconvention.com Muñoz Marin International Airport.

“Smooth” Attractions: Centrally located in San Snapshot: At 580,000 sq. ft., the Juan, the gateway to all that Puerto Rico award-winning Puerto Rico Convention has to offer. Directly adjacent to Old San Center is the Caribbean’s largest and Juan, business and resorts hotels, resmost technologically-advanced meeting taurants and night life. The centerpiece facility. It offers budget friendly ameni- to a 113-acre waterfront development ties, beautiful surroundings, stunning featuring hotels, walkways, fountains views, and world renowned service to and restaurants among others. make your experience a smooth one.

See Ad on Page 45 Meeting Space: 36,200 sq. ft. of meeting space, including 15 meeting rooms on two levels, divisible into 28 sections; 4 on level one and 11 on level two; 39,500-sq.-ft. Ballroom, which subdivides into two sections and can seat 3,934 theater style; 1,900 banquet

Rhode Island

RHODE ISLAND CONVENTION & ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX

One Sabin Street Providence, RI 02903 Phone: (401) 458-6000; Fax: (401) 458-6500 www.riconvention.com Senior Director of Sales and Marketing: John J. McGinn, CEM

Snapshot: The Rhode Island Convention & Entertainment Complex, which includes the Rhode Island Convention Center (RICC), the Dunkin’ Donuts Center (Dunk) arena, and the Veterans Memorial Auditorium Arts & Cultural Center (VMA), is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Providence.

With ample meeting and event space, including the elegant Rotunda Room offering spectacular city views, the RICC is committed to providing an exceptional event experience.

RICC Features: 100,000 contiguous sq. ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 137,000 sq. ft.

Total Exhibit Space; 23 meeting rooms and pre-function space; 20,000 sq. ft Ballroom; accommodations for groups of 10-5,000; two parking garages.

DDC Features: Recently renovated and located adjacent to RICC; skybridge connected to the RICC; assembly seating for up to 13,000; luxury suites for groups up to 40; five hospitality and meeting rooms.

VMA Features: More than 1,900 seats; listed on the National Register of Historic Places; hospitality and meeting space available; easily accessible.

Hotel Rooms: 5,500 in the Greater Providence area, with 2,200 within one mile of Complex.

Transportation: T.F. Green Airport is 8.5 miles from RICC. Attractions: Bank of America Skating Center; Culinary Arts Museum at JWU; Festival Ballet Providence; Providence Bruins (AHL Affiliate of Boston Bruins); Providence College Friars Basketball; Providence Performing Arts Center; Providence Place mall, RI Philharmonic; RI School of Design Museum; Trinity Repertory Company; WaterFire Providence.

See ad on Page 3

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

rhode island

PROVIDENCE WARWICK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 144 Westminster Street Providence, RI 02903 Phone: (401) 456-0200; Fax: (401) 273-7046 www.GoProvidence.com Senior Vice President: Neil R. Schriever

Providence: The Creative Capital Snapshot: The Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau (PWCVB) books meetings, conventions, trade shows and events of any size in Providence, Warwick, and surrounding areas. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist in ensuring a successful event.

Largest Meeting Venue: Rhode Island Convention & Entertainment Complex, which includes the RI Convention Center with 137,000 sq. ft. of total exhibit space, the 13,000-seat Dunkin’ Donuts Center, and the 1,900-

new york

Rochester Riverside Convention Center 123 East Main Street Rochester, NY 14564 (585) 232-7200; Fax: (585) 232-1510 www.rrcc.com Executive Director: Joseph A. Floreano, CFE

“Do it better at the Rochester Riverside where you and your event are always the center of our attention!”

Snapshot: Conveniently located in the heart of Rochester, N.Y., the Rochester Riverside Convention Center enjoys a scenic setting on the Genesee River with outdoor patios and balconies providing wonderful views. It also offers the convenience of enclosed walkway connections to large hotels and parking garages.

Meeting Space: 100,000 sq. ft of meeting/exhibition space; 22 meeting rooms; 10,028-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 49,275-sq.-ft.

Main Exhibit Hall; 5,000-seat Theater.

seat VMA Arts & Cultural Center.

Marketing Services: The PWCVB works closely with meeting planners to help boost attendance through targeted e-mail blasts, postcard mailings, reciprocal Web links, prepromotion at prior year’s meeting, customized interactive maps, access to a stock photo library, attendee Web site/microsite, collateral materials, welcome banners throughout the city, and welcome signage in member establishments.

Hotel Rooms: 2,200 rooms within one mile of RICC, 5,500 in Greater Providence area.

Destination: Providence, Rhode Island is brimming with rich history, natural beauty, and stunning architecture. The city’s compact downtown area—where the Rhode Island Convention Center is located—makes it an extremely convenient and walkable city, with hotels, great restaurants, and stellar shopping all within blocks of each other.

Providence is easily accessible by air, rail or highway, and about 25 percent of the United States’ population lives within 500 miles of the city.

See ad on page 43

Venue Features: Dedicated internet connection over Fiber Optics; wireless access throughout facility.

Convention/Hotel Rooms: More than 1,100 rooms connect with the Rochester Riverside Convention Center—Rochester Plaza, 336-room Hyatt Regency, which recently completed a $16-million renovation of its facility and Radisson Hotel Rochester Riverside, which just completed a $6-million renovation.

Transportation: 10-minute drive to Greater Rochester International Airport.

Attractions: Several entertainment districts surround the Rochester Riverside with restaurants and cafés, coffee houses and pubs, dance clubs and music halls, theatres and more; Frontier Field; Marina Auto Stadium; restored historic Armory; George Eastman House International Museum of Photography and Film; Susan B. Anthony House; National Museum of Play; National Toy Hall of Fame; Boardwalk at Lake Ontario; more than 100 vineyards and numerous “wine trails”; New York Wine and Culinary Center.

See ad on page 47

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Alberta Alberta British BritishColumbia Columbia Manitoba Manitoba NewBrunswick Brunswick New NovaScotia Scotia Nova Ontario Ontario PrinceEdward Edward Prince Island Island Quebec Quebec Saskatchewan Saskatchewan

ONTARIO, CANADA Puerto Rico ONTARIO, CANADA

Canada Canada

diately adjacent and the San Juan Bay Marina is easily accessible as well.

Meeting Space: 35,000 sq. ft., includingSpace: 9 breakout rooms; Meeting 1,072,000 sq.16,290-sq.-ft. ft.

Meeting Space: 1,072,000 sq.of ft. of Ballroom; (150,000 sq.including ft. available meeting/exhibit/event space, meeting/exhibit/event space, including at adjacent Puerto Rico Convention 23 meeting rooms; Conference Centre 23 meeting rooms; Conference Centre Center); 1,480for Theater Seating. expansion scheduled for 2009. expansion scheduled 2009.

Technology: Audiovisual equipment; Services: In-house catering concesServices: In-house catering andand concesHigh-speed Internet access; 24-hour department available.

On-site sions sions department available.

On-site Business parking for Center.

7,000 vehicles. parking for 7,000 vehicles.

Venue Features: Spa; Casino; Fitness Transportation: 12 miles/20 minutes 12 miles/20 minutes DIRECT ENERGY Sheraton Puerto Transportation: DIRECT ENERGY center; Professional eventAirport. staff; on-site from Pearson International International Airport.

CENTRE Rico Convention from Pearson catering team; (580,000Centre; square feet of CENTRE Attractions: Air Canada 100 Princes’ Blvd.

Attractions: Air Canada Centre; 100 Princes’ Blvd. Ontario M6K function space in the adjacent Puerto Center Hotel & Toronto, 3C3 Scaramouche Restaurant; Hockey Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3Fax: (416) 263-3029 Scaramouche Restaurant; Hockey RicoofConvention Center).

(416) 263-3020; Casino Hall Fame; Le Montmartre (416) 263-3020; Fax: (416) 263-3029 Hall of Fame; LeThe Montmartre www.directenergycentre.com 200 Convention Boulevard Restaurant; Distillery Historic Lodging: 503 Guest Rooms. www.directenergycentre.com Director of Sales & Marketing: San Juan, PR 00907 Restaurant; The Distillery Historic District; Campbell House Museum; Director Laura of Sales & Marketing: Purdy Distance to nearest airport: 7 miles (787) 993-3500; (800) 325-3535 District; Campbell HouseVillage; Museum; Black Creek Pioneer Textile Laura PurdyFax: (787) 993-3525 from (SJU).

Creek Pioneer Village; of Canada; Bata Textile Shoe Snapshot: Direct Energy Centre is BlackMuseum www.sheraton.com/ of Canada; Bata Shoefrom Museum; Campbell Museum; Transportation: 7House miles Luis Snapshot: Directlargest Energyexhibition Centre isand conven-Museum Canada’s puertoricoconventioncenter Royal Ontario ClarkeAirport.

Campbell House Museum; centre over 1 million square Museum; Muñoz MarinMuseum, International Canada’stion largest exhibition convenDirector ofwith Sales &and Marketing: Scarborough Historical feet of exhibition space. square We are conve-RoyalMuseum; Ontario Museum, Clarke tion centre with over 1 million Willie Chin Destination Features: The new Puerto Museum; ThomsonHistorical Memorial Park; niently located Exhibition Place in Museum; Scarborough feet of exhibition space.at We are conveRico Convention Center District feaYou don’t just stay here.

You belong MZTV Museum of Television; CBC downtown Toronto, with 35,000 hotel Museum; Thomson Memorial niently located at Exhibition Place in tures dozens of night spots,Park; restaurants Museum; Benares Historic House rooms citywide.

Toronto’s Pearson Snapshot: Plan your event in paraMZTVand Museum of Television; CBCs and downtown Toronto, with 35,000 hotel shops some of the Caribbean’ preVisitor Centre.

International Airport is host to 50 andMuseum; dise. Opening in November 2009 Benares Historic House rooms citywide.

Toronto’s Pearson mier entertainment options. Theand hotel global air carriers and is only 12 miles superbly situated amidst the Puerto Rico Visitorhas Centre.

International Airport is host to 50 a new casino featuring non-stop from Direct Energy Centre.

Direct Convention District facing the global airEnergy carriersCentre andCenter isis only 12 miles action, including 500 slot machines and one of the world’s Bay of San Juan, the Sheraton Puerto from Direct Energy Centre. Direct 16 table games. most environmentally responsible Rico Convention Center Hotel and Energy Centre is one of the world’s exhibition convention facilities.landAttractions: Old San Casino willand beresponsible a truly remarkable most environmentally The venue includes a Presentation Juan; San Juan Bay mark in the district.

Our hotel will be just exhibition and convention facilities. fixed Theatre with 100 Permanent 10includes minutes the international airport Marina; El Yunque The venue afrom Presentation seats, a 8,200-seat arena and a Rain forest. and five fromstadium historicon-site.

Old San Theatre 20,000-seat with 100minutes Permanent fixed open-air See ad on Page 49 Juan.

The Convention Center is immeseats, a 8,200-seat arena and a

20,000-seat open-air stadium on-site.

ONTARIO, ONTARIO,CANADA CANADA

space; 2 multi-purpose ballrooms Spotlight Feature:encompassing Karen 78,000Kotowski sq. ft.; 1,330-seat ONTARIO, CANADA ONTARIO, CANADA John Bassett Theatre.

Continued from page 13 space; 2 multi-purpose ballrooms Technology: High-speed Internet access encompassing sq. ft.; 1,330-seat Meeting78,000 Space: 1,072,000 sq. ft. of using a T3 connection; Wireless Internet Bassett Theatre.

F&D: What are biggest changesJohn in the industry since you started? meeting/exhibit/event space, including access; Customized and wireless 23 meeting rooms; wired Conference Centre Technology: High-speed Internet access data networks; Customized voice netMeeting Space: 1,072,000 ft. of expansion scheduled forsq.

2009. using a T3 connection; Wireless Internet KK: Even greater professionalism.

Not many people that I works; Digital PBX;space, Virtual internal meeting/exhibit/event including Services: In-house and concesCustomized wired and wireless networks; On-site technical support. knew pursued their CMP 20access; ago.

Now, itcatering seems that 23years meeting rooms; Conference Centre sions department available.

On-site data networks; Customized voice netVenue Features: in-house services expansion scheduled for 2009. everyone I talk to sees the value of the CMP designation and parking for 7,000 vehicles. works;include: DigitalAudio-visual; PBX; Virtual internal Simultaneous areTHE evenMETRO pursuing it after many years in the business.

I just Services: In-house catering and concesOn-siteon-site technical support.

Transportation: 12 miles/20 minutes translation; catering; TORONTO networks; DIRECT ENERGY sionsTelecommunication; department available.

On-site got mine three years ago, mostly to set anin-house example for my from Pearson International Airport.

Banking/ATM CONVENTION CENTRE Venue Features: services CENTRE parking for 7,000I services; vehicles. and exchange Guest Services 255 Street West staff (at my previous association), whom was requiring it as Attractions: Air Canada Centre; 100Front Princes’ Blvd. include: Audio-visual; Simultaneous Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5V 2W6 desk inon-site the 12 main entranceminutes ofHockey each Transportation: miles/20 Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3 Scaramouche Restaurant; translation; catering; THE METRO TORONTO part of their professional development.

DIRECT ENERGY (416) (416)585-8000; 263-3020;Fax: Fax:(416) (416)585-8198 263-3029 Hall of Fame; Le Montmartre frombuilding.

Pearson International Airport.

Telecommunication; Banking/ATM CONVENTION CENTRE CENTRE www.mtccc.com www.directenergycentre.com Restaurant; The Distillery Historic Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: and exchange services; Guest Services 255 Street West Attractions: Air Canada Centre; V.P. Sales & Marketing: John Houghton 100Front Princes’ Blvd.

Director of Sales & Marketing: F&D: Has CMP certification been affected by the economy?

District; Campbell House Museum; 12,000 first-class hotel rooms within Toronto, Canada M5V 2W6 desk in the main entrance of each Toronto,Ontario, Ontario M6K 3C3 Scaramouche Restaurant; Hockey Laura Purdy “Our PEOPLE are the centre” Black Creek Pioneer distance of theVillage; Centre.Textile (416) (416)585-8000; 263-3020;Fax: Fax:(416) (416)585-8198 263-3029 building.

Hallwalking of Fame; LeCanada; Montmartre Museum of Bata Shoe Snapshot: Direct Energy Centre are is paying for it out of their own Snapshot: The Metro Toronto www.mtccc.com www.directenergycentre.com KK: I think more people Transportation: 20-minute drive from Restaurant; The Distillery Historic Hotel Rooms: Museum; Campbell House Museum; Canada’s largest exhibition and#1convenCentre is Houghton Canada’s tradeConvention/Guest V.P. SalesConvention & Sales Marketing: John Director of & Marketing: Pearson International Airport. pockets either because their company hashotel cut down on District; Campbell House Museum; first-class rooms within Royal Ontario Museum, Clarke tionconvention centre withfacility over 1and million and one ofsquare the 12,000 Laura Purdy “Our training/professional PEOPLE are the space. centre”Wedevelopment BlackAttractions: Creek Pioneer Textile Theatre district is a out budgets orVillage; they are Museum; Scarborough Historical walking distance of the Centre. feet ofinexhibition convefinest North America.

Withare more Museum of Canada; Shoe five-minute walk Bata from the doors of Snapshot: Direct Energy Centre isstate-ofMuseum; Thomson Memorial Park; Snapshot: Metro Toronto niently located at Exhibition Place 2 million square feet ofwe ofthan aThe job.

That’s why areindoing everything we can to help Transportation: 20-minute drive from MTCC; Air Canada Centre; Rogers Campbell House Museum; MZTV Museum of Television; CBC Canada’sthe-art largest exhibition and downtown Toronto, with 35,000 hotel Museum; Convention Centre is itCanada’s #1conventrade space, is a considered a worldby instituting payment plan for the exam fees.

A candidate Pearson International Airport.

Centre; Medieval Times Dinner & and Museum; Benares Historic House Ontario Museum, Clarke rooms citywide.

Toronto’s Pearson tionconvention centre with overfacility.

1and million class, tier-one Since its opening Royal and facility one ofsquare the payAmerica. inspace. three installments.

About 20 percent ofisAll-Suite candidates Tournament; StageWest Theatre district a Visitor Centre.

International Airport isare host toapproxi50 Attractions: Museum; Scarborough Historical in 1984, the MTCC hosted feet ofcan Wehas convefinest inexhibition North With more HotelThomson &walk Theatre Restaurant; from theplan doorsto of global air and is advantage of itonly thefive-minute spring exam.

We Museum; Memorial Park; mately 12,000 events and haswith enterniently located at carriers Exhibition Place in12 miles than 2took million square feet of state-ofGuinness World RecordsRogers Museum; from Energy Centre.

Direct Air Canada Centre; tained nearly 40 million guests.

From 10MTCC; MZTV Museum of Television; CBC downtown Toronto, with 35,000 hotel the-art space, itDirect is considered a the worldcontinue offering payment plan indefinitely.

Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Energy is From one the world’s people toCentre 10,000. board meetingsCentre; Medieval Dinner & and Museum; BenaresTimes Historic House roomstier-one citywide.

Toronto’s Pearson class, facility.

Since itsofopening Winery. most environmentally responsible to gala balls and StageWest All-Suite Visitor Centre.

Airport iseverything host to 50in between,Tournament; inInternational 1984, the MTCC has hosted approxiF&D: You’ve been part of theroom, Green Program at CIC, exhibition andanswer facilities.

MTCC is the right HotelInitiatives & Theatre Restaurant; global 12,000 air carriers and isconvention only 12the miles mately events and hasfor enterTheright venue includes Presentation the catering andathe right people. especially the APEX/ASTM (American Society for Testing and Guinness World Records Museum; from Direct Energy Centre.

Direct tained nearly 40 million guests.

From fixed 10 Theatre with 100 Permanent Space: 460,000 sq. ft. and of flexiJackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Materials) Green Meeting Events Standards.

How would you Energy Centre is one of the world’s people toMeeting 10,000.

From board meetings seats, a 8,200-seat and ameeting ble exhibit space;responsible 64arena furnished Winery. environmentally tomost galaassess balls and everything in between, this program so far?

20,000-seat open-air stadiumft.on-site. rooms that cover of exhibition andanswer convention MTCC is the for 104,000 thefacilities. rightsq.room,

Theright venue includes Presentation the catering andathe right people.

Theatre with 100460,000 Permanent Meeting Space: sq. ft.fixed of flexi88 seats, a 8,200-seat and ameeting 54 ble exhibit space; 64arena furnished ONTARIO, CANADA Facilities &stadium Destinations Planner Guide 20,000-seat open-air on-site. rooms that cover 104,000 sq. ft. of space; 2 multi-purpose ballrooms

encompassing 78,000 sq. ft.; 1,330-seat

BRITISH COLUMBIA, British ONTARIO, CANADA CANADA BRITISHColumbia COLUMBIA, CANADA ONTARIO, CANADA

meeting from 500 todue 6,500 6,500sq.rooms sq.ft.;ft.;Expansion, Expansion, due tosq.combeft.;com6,500 to be Expansion, due to be completed in 2009; pleted in 2009; will triple combined pleted in 2009; will triple combined will triple combined meeting/exhibition meeting/exhibition space nearly meeting/exhibition space to to nearly space to nearly 500,000 sq. ft.

500,000 500,000 sq.sq.ft.ft.

Meeting Space: 1,072,000 sq. ft. of Meeting Space: 1,072,000 sq. ft.kitchen” of Venue features: Unique “scratch Venue features: Unique “scratch Venue features: Unique “scratch meeting/exhibit/event space, including meeting/exhibit/event space, including on-site caterer utilizes fresh, local prodkitchen”on-site on-sitecaterer caterer utilizes fresh, kitchen” utilizes fresh, 23 rooms; Conference Centre 23meeting meetingadditives, rooms; Conference Centre ucts without avoids canned local products without additives, avoids local products without additives, avoids expansion scheduled forfor 2009. expansion scheduled 2009. goods, disposable utensils and dishes.andand canned goods, utensils canned goods,disposable disposable utensils Services: In-house catering and concesServices: In-house catering dishes. dishes.

Green Features: Designated a and concessions available.

On-site sionsdepartment department available.

Green Features: Designated aOn-site Powersmart Convention Centre bya BC Green for Features: Designated parking vehicles. parking for7,000 7,000 vehicles.

Powersmart Convention Centre by Hydro; Awarded “GO GREEN” cer-BC Powersmart Convention Centre

by BC Transportation: miles/20 minutes Hydro; Awarded “GO GREEN” cer-cerVANCOUVER tificate from the 12 Building Owners and Transportation: 12 miles/20 minutes DIRECT ENERGY Vancouver Hydro; Awarded “GO GREEN” VANCOUVER DIRECT ENERGY from Pearson International Airport. tificate from the Building Owners and CONVENTION& & Managers Association. from International Airport.

CENTRE Convention tificatePearson from the Building Owners and CONVENTION & CENTRE Managers Association.

Attractions: Air Canada Centre; 100 Princes’ Blvd.

EXHIBITION CENTRE Managers Association.

Convention/Hotel Rooms: 13,000 Exhibition Centre Attractions: Air Canada Centre; 100 Princes’ Blvd.

EXHIBITION CENTRE Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3 Suite 200, 999 Canada Place Scaramouche Restaurant; Hockey Convention/Hotel Rooms: 13,000 Suite 200, 200, 999 Canada Canada3C3 Place quality hotel rooms within easy Hockey walking Toronto, Ontario Suite 999 Place Scaramouche Convention/Hotel Rooms: (416) 263-3020; Fax: (416) 263-3029 Vancouver, BC, M6K Canada V6C 3C1 Hall of hotel Fame;rooms LeRestaurant; Montmartre quality within easy 13,000 walking Vancouver, BC, Canada Canada V6C 3C1 (416) 263-3020; Fax: (416) 263-3029 Vancouver, BC, V6C 3C1 distance.

Hall of hotel Fame; Le Montmartre www.directenergycentre.com (604) 689-8232; (866) 785-8232 quality rooms within easy walking Restaurant; The Distillery Historic distance.

(604) 689-8232; (866) www.directenergycentre.com (604) 689-8232; (866) 785-8232 Director of Sales Marketing: (North America only)&785-8232 Restaurant; The Distillery Historic distance.

District; Campbell House Museum; Transportation: Vancouver International (North America only) Director of Sales & Marketing: (North America only) Laura Purdy647-7232 Transportation: Vancouver Fax: (604) District; Campbell House Museum; Black Creek Pioneer Village; Textile Airport.

Fax: (604) 647-7232 Laura Purdy647-7232 Transportation: Vancouver Fax: (604) www.vcec.ca International Airport.

Black Creek Pioneer Village; Museum of Canada; Bata Shoe Textile Snapshot: Energy Centre is www.vcec.ca Director of Direct Sales: Gayle Morris www.vcec.ca Attractions: Edgewater Casino, International Airport.

Attractions: Casino, Tantra MuseumCampbell ofEdgewater Canada; Bata Shoe Museum; House Museum; Director of largest Sales: exhibition Gayle Morris Snapshot: Direct Energy Centre is Canada’s and convenDirector of Sales: Gayle Morris Tantra Waterfront Lounge & Grill atTantra “More.

On Allexhibition Levels” Waterfront Lounge & House Grill at Attractions: Edgewater Casino, Royal Ontario Museum, Clarke Museum; Campbell Museum; tion centre with over 1 million Canada’s largest and square conven- Lonsdale “More.

On All Levels” Quay Hotel, Giggle Dam “More.

All Levels” Lonsdale Quay Hotel, Giggle Dam Snapshot: Spectacular, multi-level, Waterfront Lounge & Grill at Museum; Scarborough Historical feet of On exhibition space.

We aresquare conveRoyal Ontario Museum, Clarke tion centre with over 1 million Dinner Theatre, Grouse Mountain, Dinner Theatre, Grouse Mountain, Snapshot: Spectacular, multi-level, waterwaterfront venue, originally forin Museum; Thomson Memorial Park; Lonsdale Quay Hotel, Giggle Dam niently located atspace.

Exhibition Place Snapshot: Spectacular, multi-level, Museum; Scarborough Historical feet of exhibition We built are conveThe Peak of Vancouver, H.R. The Peak ofThomson Vancouver, H.R. front venue, originally built for Canada Canada Pavilion for the World’s Fair MZTV Museum ofGrouse Television; CBC downtown Toronto, with 35,000 hotel Dinner Theatre, Mountain, waterfront venue, originally built forin Museum; Memorial Park; niently located at Exhibition Place Space Centre, Vancouver MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver Pavilion for the World’ s Fair Expo inFair 1986, MacMillan Expo in 1986, the Vancouver Museum; Benares Historic House CBC and rooms citywide.

Toronto’s Pearson The Peak of Vancouver, H.R. Canada Pavilion for the World’s MZTV Museum of Television; downtown Toronto, with 35,000 hotel Art Gallery, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Art Gallery, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Convention & Exhibition Centre will Visitor Centre. the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition International Airport is host to 50 MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver Expo in 1986, the Vancouver Museum; Benares Historic House and rooms citywide. Toronto’s Pearson Chinese Maritime ChineseGarden, Garden,Vancouver Maritime triple will its asits this beautiful Canadian global airsize carriers and isasonly 12 miles Centre triple size this beautiful Art Gallery, Dr.Vancouver Sun Yat-Sen Classical Convention &Airport Exhibition Centre will Visitor Centre.

International is host to 50 Museum,Harbour HarbourCruises Cruises&&Events, Events, Museum, city prepares to host Centre. the 2010the Olympic from Direct Energy Direct Canadian city as prepares to host 2010 Chinese Garden, Vancouver Maritime triple its Canadian global airsize carriersthis andbeautiful is Games. only 12 miles VancouverMuseum, Museum,Vancouver Vancouver Vancouver & Paralympics Winter Energy Centre is one of the world’s Olympic & Paralympics Winter Games.

Museum, Harbour Cruises & Events, city prepares to host the 2010 Olympic from Direct Energy Centre.

Direct Aquarium,M&M M&M Aquarium, most environmentally responsible Meeting Space: Flexible pre-function Vancouver Museum, Vancouver Meeting Space: pre-function & Paralympics Winter Energy Centre isFlexible one ofGames. the world’sand Salmon Salmon Fishing Fishing Charters, exhibition andspace convention facilities. and function totals 133,000 sq. ft.

Aquarium, M&M function space totals 133,000 sq. ft. on most environmentally responsible Charters, Playland The venue includes a Presentation Meeting Space: Flexible pre-function Playland @ the PNE,@ on two levels, including a 91,000-sq.-ft.

Salmon two levels, including a 91,000-sq.-ft. colthe PNE, Fishing VanDusen exhibition andspace convention facilities.

Theatre with 100 Permanent fixedinto and function totals sq. ft. VanDusen Botanical column-free exhibit hall; 133,000 divisible Charters,Garden, Playland @ umn-free exhibit hall;arena into three Botanical The venue includes adivisible Presentation seats, alevels, 8,200-seat a columnon two including aand 91,000-sq.-ft.

Garden, Prince of Whales three halls and a 16,000-sq.-ft. halls and a 16,000-sq.-ft. column-free the PNE, VanDusen PrinceWatching. of Whales Theatre withexhibit 100 Permanent fixed 20,000-seat open-air stadium on-site.

Whale column-free hall; divisible into free ballroom; divisible into three Whale Watching. ballroom; divisible into three rooms; 20to Botanical Garden, seats, a 8,200-seat arena and a columnrooms; 20 meeting rooms from 500 three halls and a 16,000-sq.-ft.

Prince of Whales 20,000-seat open-air on-site. free ballroom; divisiblestadium into three Whale Watching. rooms; 20 meeting rooms from 500 to QUEBEC, CANADA BRITISH COLUMBIA, ONTARIO, CANADA CANADA

tion of2sq. up to 3,500 attendees 6,500 ft.; Expansion, due with to bean comspace; multi-purpose ballrooms exhibition and78,000 a will single-event capacity pleted in 2009; triple combined encompassing sq. ft.; 1,330-seat QUEBEC, CANADA BRITISH COLUMBIA, ONTARIO, CANADA CANADA ofmeeting/exhibition upBassett to 7,500Theatre. attendees. space to nearly John tion of2sq. up to 3,500 attendees 6,500 ft.; Expansion, due with to bean comspace; multi-purpose ballrooms 500,000 sq. ft.

Technological Features: AVW Technology: High-speed Internet access exhibition and a will single-event capacity pleted in 2009; triple combined encompassing 78,000 sq. ft.; 1,330-seat TELAV for audiovisual needs Venue features: Unique “scratch using T3 connection; Wireless Internet KK: We have had hundreds of volunteers working on these ofmeeting/exhibition upaBassett to 7,500 attendees. space toand nearly John Theatre. services; AXION forwired sound lightkitchen” on-site caterer utilizes fresh, Customized andand wireless 500,000 sq. ft. standards over the past 18 months.access; They will be going Technological Features: AVW Technology: High-speed Internet access ing for shows, Customized banquets andvoice exhibitions; local products without additives, avoids data networks; netTELAV for audiovisual needs and through the balloting process withworks; ASTM this fall and we Venue features: Unique “scratch and VIDEOTRON for high-speed using a goods, T3 connection; Wireless Internet canned disposable utensils and Digital PBX; Virtual internal services; AXION forwired sound lightInternet kitchen” on-site caterer utilizes fresh, access; Customized andand wireless hope to have them finished by thenetworks; end ofservices. the year.

I am so dishes.

On-site technical support. ing for shows, banquets andvoice exhibitions; local products without additives, avoids data networks; Venue Features: Onsite Catering excited about this new APEX standard.

Green Features:Customized Designated a bynetVenue Features: in-house services and VIDEOTRON for high-speed canned goods, disposable utensils works; Digital PBX; Virtual internal Capital.

Powersmart Convention Centre by BC include: Audio-visual; Simultaneous and Internet services. dishes. Awarded networks; On-site technical support.

Hydro; GREEN” VANCOUVER on-site“GO catering; THE METRO TORONTO Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: F&D: How can a convention organizertranslation; best take advantage of thecertificate from the Building Venue Features: Onsite Catering Telecommunication; Banking/ATM CONVENTIONCENTRE & Green Features: Designated a andby CONVENTION 2,000 hotel rooms within aOwners short Venue Features: in-house services green255 practices a convention center that they book?

Managers Association. and exchange services; Guest Services Front StreetofWest Capital. distance from the centre; 12,000 gue-by BC EXHIBITION CENTRE Powersmart Convention Centre include: Audio-visual; Simultaneous QUEBEC CITY Toronto, Ontario, CanadaPlace M5V 2W6 desk in the main entrance of each Suite 200, 999 Canada strooms located throughout the area. cerHydro; Awarded “GO GREEN” VANCOUVER Convention/Hotel Rooms: 13,000 translation; on-site catering; THE METRO TORONTO Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: CONVENTION CENTRE (416) 585-8000; (416)V6C 585-8198 Vancouver, BC, Fax: Canada 3C1 building. quality hotel rooms within easy walking tificate from the Building Owners and KK: Start early in articulating their expectations and needs.

Telecommunication; Banking/ATM CONVENTION & Transportation: Jean-Lisage Airport CONVENTION CENTRE 2,000 hotel rooms within a short 1000, boul.

René-Lévesque Est www.mtccc.com (604) 689-8232; (866) 785-8232 distance.

Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Managers Association. exchange services; Guest Services Front Street West isand approximately 25 minutes from (418) 644-4000; (888) 679-4000 V.P. Sales & Marketing: John Houghtonare already distance from the centre; 12,000 gueSo255 many convention centers implementing green EXHIBITION CENTRE (North America only) QUEBEC CITY roomsofwithin Fax: 644-6455 Toronto, Ontario, CanadaPlace 2W6 downtown. desk infirst-class the mainhotel entrance each Suite 200, 999 Canada Transportation: Vancouver Fax:(418) (604) 647-7232 strooms located throughout area.

Convention/Hotel Rooms: 13,000 “Our PEOPLE areM5V the centre” practices so in those cases it, won’t12,000 be too difficult.

The the www.convention.qc.ca CONVENTION CENTRE walking distance of the Centre.

(416) 585-8000; (416)V6C 585-8198 www.vcec.ca Vancouver, BC, Fax: Canada 3C1 building.

International Airport.

Attractions: Dynamic downtown with quality hotel rooms within easy walking Transportation: Jean-Lisage Airport President/CEO: P. Michel Bouchard challenge for planners will be if the venue is not green, 1000, boul.

René-Lévesque Est Snapshot: The Metro Toronto www.mtccc.com Director of Sales: Morris (604) 689-8232; (866) Gayle 785-8232 Transportation: 20-minute drive from restaurants, night club and shopping; Attractions: Edgewater Casino, Tantra distance.

Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: is approximately 25 minutes from (418) 644-4000; (888) 679-4000 Convention Centre is Canada’s #1 trade V.P. Sales & Marketing: John Houghton (North America only) getting those practices their meeting.

Once we International Airport.

Snapshot: Quebec “More.

OnThe All Levels”Cityin place forPearson Old Quebec historic district; Waterfront Lounge & Grill at within 12,000 first-class hotel rooms Fax: 644-6455 downtown. and(418) convention facility and one of the Transportation: Vancouver Fax: (604) 647-7232 Convention Centre located right in “Our PEOPLE areis the centre” have the green standards completed, the planner can use Montmorency Falls Park; world Lonsdale Quay Hotel, Giggle Dam Attractions: Theatre district is a Snapshot: Spectacular, multi-level, www.convention.qc.ca walking distance of the Centre. finest in North America. With more www.vcec.ca International Airport.

Attractions: Dynamic the heart of venue, downtown Quebec, a for process famous Ice Hotel; Winter Carnival; Dinner Theatre, Grouse Mountain, five-minute walk from thedowntown doors of with President/CEO: P.square Michel Bouchard waterfront originally built them in the RFP and so the expectations Snapshot: The Metro Toronto than 2 million feet ofselection state-ofDirector of Sales: Gayle Morris Transportation: 20-minute drive Tantra from dynamic international metropolis. restaurants, night club and shopping; L’Astral revolving rooftop restaurant; Attractions: Edgewater Casino, The Peak Vancouver, H.R. MTCC; AirofCanada Centre; Rogers Canada Pavilion for the World’s Centre is Canada’s #1 Fair trade the-art space, it is considered a worldareConvention in the contract.

Pearson International Airport.

Snapshot: The Quebec City link the Unique underground walkways “More.

On Allfacility.

Levels” Old Quebec historic district; Albert Gilles Art Museum & MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver Waterfront Lounge & Grill at Centre; Medieval Times Dinner & Expo in 1986, the Vancouver class, tier-one Since its opening and convention facility and one of the center to lodging, shopping, parking, Convention Centre is located right will in Boutique; Parc des Champs-deMontmorency Falls Park; world Art Gallery, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Tournament; StageWest All-Suite Lonsdale Quay Hotel, Giggle &America.

Exhibition Centre Attractions: Theatre district is aDam Snapshot: inConvention 1984, theSpectacular, MTCC has multi-level, hosted approxifinest in North With more restaurants, nightlife and other Canadian cultural Bataille; Shrine ofRestaurant; Sainte-Anne-dethe heartits ofsize downtown Quebec, a for famous Ice Hotel; Winter Carnival; Chinese Garden, Vancouver Maritime Hotel & Theatre triple as this beautiful Dinner Theatre, Grouse Mountain, five-minute walk from the doors of waterfront venue, originally built mately 12,000 events and has enterthan 2 million square feet of state-ofattractions.

Beaupré; Notre-Dame de Québec dynamic international metropolis.

Museum, Harbour Cruises &restaurant; Events, L’Astral revolving rooftop Guinness World Records Museum; city prepares to host theguests.

2010 Olympic The Peak ofCanada Vancouver, H.R. tained nearly From MTCC; Air Centre; Rogers Canada Pavilion for the World’s Fair10 the-art space, it40 ismillion considered a worldBasilica-Cathedral; Musée Edison Vancouver Museum, Vancouver Unique walkways linkcomthe Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Meeting Space: The eco-friendly & Paralympics Winter Games.

Albert Gilles Art Museum & people to1986, 10,000.

From board meetings MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver Centre; Medieval Times Dinner & Expo inunderground the Vancouver class, tier-one facility.

Since its opening du Phonographe.

Aquarium, M&M Winery. plex contains 75,000-sq.-ft. exhibit center toballs lodging, shopping, parking, Boutique; Parc des Champs-deto gala and everything in between, Art Gallery, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Tournament; StageWest All-Suite Meeting Space: Flexible pre-function &a Exhibition Centre will inConvention 1984, the MTCC has hosted approxiSalmon Fishing hall, a 34,500-sq.-ft. convention hall, a restaurants, nightlife cultural Bataille; Shrine ofRestaurant; Sainte-Anne-deMTCC is theasanswer forother the right room, Chinese Garden, Vancouver Maritime and its function space totals 133,000 sq. ft.

Hotel & Theatre triple size thisand beautiful Canadian mately 12,000 events and has enterCharters, Playland @ de Québec 25,000-sq.-ft. multipurpose room and attractions. the right catering andthe the 2010 people.

Beaupré; onprepares two levels, including aright 91,000-sq.-ft.

Museum,Notre-Dame Harbour Cruises & Events, Guinness World Records Museum; city to host Olympic tained nearly 40 million guests.

From 10 the PNE, VanDusen 30 meeting rooms with a total of into Basilica-Cathedral; Musée Edison column-free exhibit hall; divisible Vancouver Museum, Vancouver Space: 460,000 sq. ft.meetings of flexiJackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Meeting Space: The eco-friendly com&Meeting Paralympics Winter Games. people to sq.

10,000.

From board Botanical Garden, 35,000 Ample public space three hallsft. and a 64 16,000-sq.-ft. columndu Phonographe. ble exhibit space; furnished meeting Aquarium, M&M Winery. plex contains a 75,000-sq.-ft. exhibit toMeeting gala ballsSpace: and in between, Prince of Whales (232,000 sq. ft.)everything can welcome a convenFlexible pre-function free ballroom; divisible into three rooms that cover 104,000 sq.right ft. of Salmon Fishing hall, afunction 34,500-sq.-ft. convention hall, MTCC is themeeting answer for the room, and space totals 133,000 sq.toaft. Whale Watching. rooms; 20 rooms from 500 Charters, Playland @ 25,000-sq.-ft. multipurpose room and

For a Longer Version of this Interview Visit www.facilitiesonline.com

the catering and the aright people. on right two levels, including 91,000-sq.-ft. the PNE, VanDusen 30 meeting rooms with a total of into column-free exhibit hall; divisible Meeting Space: 460,000 sq. ft. of flexi- & Destinations Facilities 2009 SuperBook Botanical2009 Garden, 35,000 sq. ft.and Ample public space Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide three halls a 16,000-sq.-ft. columnQUEBEC, CANADA ble exhibit space; 64 furnished meeting 59 PrinceGuide of Whales (232,000 sq. ft.) can welcome a convenFacilities & Destinations Planner free ballroom; divisible into three tion of up to 3,500 attendees with an rooms that cover 104,000 sq. ft. of Whale Watching. exhibition and a single-event capacity rooms; 20 meeting rooms from 500 to

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Technology: Ballroom equipped with LED lighting; state-of-the-art audio/ 421 7th Avenue, New York, NYwireless 10001 visual capabilities, wired and (800) 525-5750; Fax: (212) 202-9638 technology. www.urbanride.net Venue Features: 360 ft. Video Art Wall in pre-function area; enticing Chief Executive Officer: Jeremy Milikow ocean views from the 147-foot glass Senior Vice President: Mitch Bornstein, SVP tower, which hosts the Executive Room, VIP Lounge and ‘Leading Global Provider of Meeting & EventBoard Transportation’ Observation Deck. The facility provides 2,230 free parking spaces.

UrbanRide is a global provider of ground transportation for meetings & events, and uses the top-of-the-line sedans, SUVs, vans, minibuses and motorcoaches.

We provide Lodging: 3,500; 12,000+ citywide.

Virginia our clients with IMS, Beach our software that enables meeting planners to better manage Convention Center Dining & tradeshows Entertainment: Town Center, transportation for their meetings, conferences, conventions, & other events.

1000 19th Street V.B.’ s newest downtown district, feauturWe work exclusively with meeting & event planners and our customer service is the best in Virginia Beach, VA 23451 dining,&nightlife and the stunning the business.

UrbanRide is a one-stop solution foring meeting event transportation.

(757) 385-4700; (800) 700-7702 Sandler Center for the Performing Arts.

Fax: (757) 437-4747 Transportation: Norfolk International www.vbmeetings.com Vice President Convention Sales & Airport (20 minutes away).

Marketing: Al Hutchinson Attractions: Oceanfront Boardwalk; Bring it to the Beach / Meet Green, Virginia Aquarium and Marine Live Green Science Center; Contemporary Arts Center of Virginia; Charter Snapshot: Dynamic use of water, wood and natural light integrated throughout the boat fishing; Dolphin & whale watching boat trips; 11 Golf Beach Convention 4350500,000-sq.-ft.

N. Fairfax Dr.,Virginia Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22203 Courses; Cape Henry Historic (703)Center 516-4000; Fax:the (703) 516-4819 captures essence of the coastal Lighthouses; First Landing State www.kepplerspeakers.com destination. At the building’s entrance, a Senior VP fornautical Sales and Marketing: John Truran Park; Naval Air Station Oceana; soaring, glass-curtain wall appears Town Center; The Association for to float in pools of water both inside and Research andfelt Enlightenment.

Withoutside Keppler never so easy. With over 25 the Speakers, building. creating memorable meetings years of experience, we provide you solid, seasoned expertise, making speaker selection See ad on page 51 MeetingbySpace: 150,000 ft.details. column-Keppler Speakers saves you precious time by stress-free managing all ofsq.the free exhibit hallspeakers (divisible who by 4);are 31,000matching you with right on target. From proven performers to dynamic sq.-ft. ballroom; 29,000bring sq. ft.fascinating, of additionalreal stories and a gift for inspiring audiences. rising stars, our speakers meeting space; 26 meeting rooms.

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Wilmington Convention Center Wilmington/Cape Fear Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau 24 North Third Street Wilmington, NC 28401 (800) 650-9064; (910) 332-8757 Fax: (910) 341-4029 www.BusinessMadeCasual.com Convention Sales Manager: John W. Sneed II, CHSP

Business Made Casual Snapshot: Opening in the Fall 2010, the Wilmington Convention Center puts you comfortably in the middle of a casual business climate that’s just right for your group’s next conference, meeting or seminar. Conveniently located on the riverfront in Historic Downtown Wilmington, and just a short drive to the charming beaches of the Cape Fear Coast, the Wilmington Convention Center is the perfect getaway to get down to business. From the wireless

Exhibit Hall to the stately southern charm of the Ballroom to the Cape Fear River porch views, our world revolves around your meeting world.

Meeting Space: 48,000 sq. ft., including 14 Meeting Rooms; 12,000-sq.-ft.

Ballroom (divisible into 6 rooms; 15,000-sq-ft pre-function area; 5,784 sq. ft. of additional meeting space that can be subdivided into 8 separate rooms; 11,000-sq.-ft. Event Lawn on the waterfront; 30,000-sq.-ft Exhibit Hall.

Food & Beverage: Customizable menus by SAVOR... Wilmington Catering.

Transportation: 4 miles Wilmington International Airport.

Attractions: Wilmington’s Historic District featuring restaurants, entertainment venues and shops; the beaches of the Cape Fear Coast (Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach); Ft. Fisher, a Civil War battlefield; the USS Battleship North Carolina Memorial & Exhibit; tours of the Screen Gems Studio home of “One Tree Hill” and “Dawson’s Creek.”

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Located in vibrant, eclectic Downtown Athens, Georgia - a town that inspires creative energy and exudes Southern hospitality and charm the award-winning Classic Center is the perfect place for meetings, conferences and special events!

Don’t Get Stuck in a Fishbowl!

The Facilities Media Group

Facilities & Destinations Facilities • Conference • Planner Guide Facilities LIVE • Booking Guide Facilities & Event Management www.Facilitiesonline.com Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Call 706.208.0900 to talk about transforming your next event into an unforgettable experience.

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F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView Every year, the meetings industry heads to Washington D.C. to participate in the ASAE & The Center’s Springtime Expo. Destination executives and meeting planners took advantage of the opportunity to gain information about the current state of the industry.

Please visit the Photo Gallery Section@facilitiesonline.com for more images from this and other important industry events.

The Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority became the first organization in New Jersey to be awarded accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program in 2008. In addition, the city has recently completed five new hotel towers and expansions, extensions of two major retail centers and a new New York–Atlantic City direct train service. (Left to right) Michael J. Reynolds, Senior Director National Sales, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority; Gary Musich, Vice President, Sales, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority; W. Clay Ellis, National Account Manager, Experient; Patrick McCormick, CMP, Director of Hotel Sales, Trump Taj Mahal; and Sandi Harvey, Director, Washington D. C. Office, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority.

Stefani N. Perrini, CMP, Director of Conference Planning for the National Conference Center in Lansdowne, VA, which features 265,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and 250 meeting rooms, an onsite Conference Support Team and Complete Meeting Packages.

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More than 4,000 attended this year’s ASAE & The Center’s Springtime Expo, including an estimated 2,129 meeting planners & association executives. Chicago Southland offers two large meeting facilities—the Orland Park Civic Center and the Tinley Park Convention Center—seven college/university sites and several meeting hotels. Mary Patchin (left), Director of Sales, Visit Chicago Southland—the destination’s Convention & Visitors Bureau and Kelly Sujka, Director of Sales & Marketing, Doubletree Hotel Chicago-ASLIP were showing meeting planners the cost-effective meeting and event opportunities that lay “Just Beyond The City Limits.

Providence, Rhode Island, a destination known for its rich history, arts, culture, and nationally acclaimed restaurants, also boasts the Rhode Island Convention and Entertainment Complex, which consists of the Rhode Island Convention Center, the Dunkin’ Donuts Center, and the Veterans Memorial Auditorium Arts & Cultural Center. The complex, located in the heart of the city, is within walking distance of hotels, the city’s diverse culinary scene as well as eclectic shops and scores of arts and cultural attractions. Promoting Providence at the ASAE event held in April were Martha Sheridan (left), President, Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, Neil R. Schriever, Senior Vice President, Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Ann Marie Spatharakis, Sales Manager, Renaissance Providence Hotel.

Toni L. Crouch, CAE, Vice President, Education and Convention, American Chamber of Commerce Executives with Robert Wood, Convention Sales Manager, Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau at the ASAE & The Center’s Springtime Expo, an annual networking & educational convention and trade show hosted by the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, in Washington, D.C. Oklahoma City, which features more than 15,000 hotel rooms city-wide, offers a variety of meeting space that includes the Cox Convention Center (27,500 square feet of flexible convention and pre-convene space, with 21 meeting rooms and a 100,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall).

Other meeting venues include: Beacon Club, Best Western Saddleback Inn and Conference Center, Character Training Institute Conference Center, Clarion-Meridian Hotel & Convention Center; Express Event Center; Lansbrook Event Center; Lazy E Arena; PHF Research Park Conference Center; Plaza Hotel & Conference Center and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, featuring a 16,5000-square-foot Special Event Center.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

d! y 2010. e n u tay T Januar

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Your Next n o p m eeting Get a JeuExpo — the largest one-day show iM n

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at the 2010 S pringtim

ndreds of fabulous de stinatio isiting hu v y b ns an ing n n d ve n u g n p i a r r o o l l d p u cts and s p by ex s es on the expo floor. d n e u Jump-start your meeting r v o i b c e d s to h e l an s p d i e h a g a u a p w o r a kening e le you implement your meetings. ledge th Increase your productivity by ducati r know o u n o y sessio e es where you will connect w ns .

Elevat ortuniti ith new p p o g n i a nd f a m wo rk ime Expo will have you jump iliar colleagues.

Be thrilled with net Springt ing fo 0 1 0 r 2 j e o y!

Th tion opens Januar y 2010 Registra .

May 27, 2010 – Washington, D.C. Walter E. Washington Convention Center STRATEGIC PARTNERS

STRATEGIC PARTNERS

STRATEGIC PARTNERS STRATEGIC PARTNERS

Visit Baltimore • Boxwood • Cincinnati USA CVB • Dallas CVB • Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB LarsonAllen • Marketing General Inc. • MultiView • St. Louis CVC • Visit Charlotte

CORPORATE PARTNERS

Visit Baltimore • Boxwood • Cincinnati USA CVB • Dallas CVB • Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB Irving CVB, Johnson Lambert & Co. LLP, Richmond Metro CVB, SunTrust Bank Visit Baltimore • Boxwood • Cincinnati USA CVB • Dallas CVB • Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB LarsonAllen • Marketing General Inc. • MultiView • St. Louis CVC • Visit Charlotte

LarsonAllen • Marketing General Inc. • MultiView • St. Louis CVC • Visit Charlotte EVENT PARTNERS

F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView

2010 Show Calendar Springtime, April 16, 2010, Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington D.C. Affordable Meetings Mid-America, April 14-16, 2010, Navy Pier, Chicago Affordable Meetings West, June 16-17, 2010, Long Beach Convention Center, California MPI WorLd Education Conference, July 24-27 2010, Vancouver Convention Center, Canada ASAE Annual Convention, August 21-24, 2010, Los Angeles Convention Center, California Affordable Meetings National, September 8-9, 2010, Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington D.C. IAEE Annual Meeting, December 7-9, 2010, Morial Convention Center, New Orleans

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Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

The Facilities Media Group

B u y e r’s G u i de

Yo u r P r o d u c t s & S e r v i c e s R e s o u r c e POTHOS, Inc. Smart City 2260 El Cajon Blvd. #474 San Diego, CA 92104 (619) 546-0621: Fax: (413) 723-7838 www.pothos.us President & CEO: Michael Patton, CMM

“Our company ethos is Integrity, Clarity and Reliability. POTHOS works in a forthright manner that considers transparent communication as the cornerstone to a successful relationship with our guests and travel partners.”

POTHOS, Inc. is a globally recognized strategic meeting management company and corporate travel agency that specializes in using cutting-edge technology and resources to compete with much larger companies at a value, offering clients cost savings and efficient personal event planning services. POTHOS, Inc. specializes in the following 3 core competencies: 1. Full Service Strategic Meeting Management; 2. Full Service Corporate/VIP Travel Management; 3.

Logistics – Freight & People. POTHOS, Inc. is your ONE source for meeting, travel and logistics.

Achievement of goals and objectives, ROI and ROO are the basis of our strategic approach.

Continental Airlines

“Work Hard. Fly Right.”

For travel reservations to cities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico: (800) 523-FARE www.continental.com Continental Airlines features a special program for event & meeting planners— MeetingWorks. With Continental MeetingWorks, planners can receive discounted airfaire, and earn credits redeemable for an array of Travel Rewards, including round trip travel and upgrades.

Booking and participation in the program can be done entirely online.

MeetingWorks is for 10 or more guests traveling to an event from two or more originating cities. The benefits of this program include: Discounts off applicable published fares; Global zone fares; Customized flyers to promote the discounts; Your organization can earn productivity credits towards upgrades; Presidents Club passes, Presidents Club membership; domestic travel certificates and Continental currency coupons.

Conventions: Information: (888) 446-6911 or (702) 943-6000 Email: csr@SmartCity.com Hospitality: General, (407) 828-6938 Video Conferencing: General, (407) 828-6900 Making the world smarter. One city at a time. ®

Smart City is a full-service communications provider across the nation and one of the world’s largest communications providers to convention centers and hospitality venues. Smart City provides technologies that make their cities smarter places to work, live, and play.

Keppler Speakers

4350 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22203 (703) 516-4000; Fax: (703) 516-4819 www.kepplerspeakers.com Senior VP for Sales and Marketing: John Truran With Keppler Speakers, creating memorable meetings never felt so easy. With over 25 years of experience, we provide you solid, seasoned expertise, making speaker selection stress-free by managing all of the details. Keppler Speakers saves you precious time by matching you with speakers who are right on target. From proven performers to dynamic rising stars, our speakers bring fascinating, real stories and a gift for inspiring audiences.

Take the Guesswork Out of Choosing a Speaker Why go it alone? We are your trusted advisors.

With an average 15 years in the industry, our agents know the speakers and know the process.

We save you time by understanding your exact needs and delivering speakers who are right on target.

With Keppler, you can relax.

We’ve got you covered.

Contact us at kepplerspeakers.com or 703.516.4000.

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

59

Buyer’s Guide

Yo u r P r o d u c t s & S e r v i c e s R e s o u r c e pc/nametag®

Plasticard Locktech International The World’s Largest Hotel Key Card Manufacturer

PRODUCTS FOR GREAT MEETINGS

124 Horizon Dr., Verona, WI 53593 (877) 626-3824; Fax: (800) 233-9787 www.pcnametag.com President: Nick Topitzes; ntopitzes@pcnametag.com; sales@pcnametag.com

605 Sweeten Creek Industrial Park Asheville, NC 28803 (800) 752-1017; Fax: (828) 210-4755 www.plicards.com Sales Manager: Linda Russell PLI produces key cards & other products for hotels, meetings, conventions, events, and advertising. We also manufacture a full line of gift cards, membership cards and loyalty cards.

PLI key cards put your message directly in the hands of hotel guests & meeting attendees.

Experient

THE SOURCE FOR INTEGRATED MEETING AND EVENT SOLUTIONS For more information on Experient Contact: Amy Munn (866) 516-1461 • amy.munn@experient-inc.com • www.experient-inc.com Experient is the source for integrated meeting and event services. Formed in August 2006 (by joining industry leaders Conferon, ExpoExchange and ITS), Experient is the single contact for all Meeting Management, Trade Show Production and Registration and Housing needs. As your partner, Experient will become a member of your team, understanding all the goals of your event, and use proven techniques, creative methods and powerful industry connections to provide a distinct and memorable event experience and drive your business. The Top seven reasons why Experient is the best choice to be your integrated meeting and event partner: (1) Integrated resources; (2) Economies of scale; (3) Single source efficiency; (4) Best practice sharing; (5) Experienced people; (6) Leadership role; (7) Consultative approach.

Founder Nick Topitzes first developed PC/Nametag®, the first software package to print nametags for meetings and conferences, with his computer and printer. Over the years, it’s been updated and improved. The business has expanded to include hundreds of products and incentive items that make the job of planning meetings easier while enhancing the attendee experience. Product lines include Nametag Holders, Inserts, Pouches & Organizers, Necklaces & Lanyards, Awards & Gifts, Bags, Totes, Envelopes & Cases, Banners, Signs & Table Covers, Binders & Portfolios, Buttons & Appliques, Drinkware, Pens & Highlighters, Ribbons and Customized Products.

Do you want your product or service to reach 50,000+ Association & Corporate Meeting Planners?

If your answer is yes, then the FMG Buyer’s Guide is how.

Michael Caffin Associate Publisher (212) 532 4150 ext 103 mcaffin@facilitiesonline.com CONTACT ME & FIND OUT MORE discount pricing • multiple-Issue & multi-media packages value-added programs • target marketing • Real Time results

Advertiser Index ASAE & The Center................................................................. 57

Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau.................................. 29

Austin Convention Center...................................................... 17

JW Marriott Indianapolis.........................................................C3

Branson Convention Center................................................... 19

Kansas Expocentre.................................................................. 31

Charleston Civic Center..........................................................C2

Meadowlands Exposition Center........................................... 33

Chattanooga Area CVB........................................................... 21

Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB/Harrison County Tourism Commission............................................................... 35

The Classic Center................................................................... 55 Cox Convention Center.......................................................... 23 George R. Brown Convention Center....................................C4 The Georgia Center, The University of Georgia’s

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Norfolk CVB............................................................................. 36 Oklahoma City CVB........................................................... 37, 39 Orange County Convention Center....................................... 41

Conference Center & Hotel.................................................... 26

Providence Warwick CVB........................................................ 43

Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward

Puerto Rico Convention Center............................................. 45

County Convention Center..................................................... 25

Rhode Island Convention Center............................................. 3

Hard Rock Hollywood/Seminole............................................ 27

Rochester Riverside Convention Center................................ 47

Hilton Atlanta........................................................................... 13

Sheraton Puerto Rico.............................................................. 49

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax........................................................ 28

Virginia Beach CVB.................................................................. 51

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide