Texas Meetings + Events Spring 2019

LOVIN’ LUBBOCK

TEXAS MEETINGS + EVENTS // SPRING 2019

LIVE LARGE IN THIS VIBRANT COLLEGE TOWN (28)

WATERSIDE

HANG BY THE LAKE AT THESE 4 RESORTS (24)

MAINTAIN ENGAGEMENT

GIVE ATTENDEES A MEETING BREAK TO REMEMBER (32)

M E E T I N G S M A G S . C O M // S P R I N G 2 0 1 9

F&B TRENDS // UNIQUE MEETING BREAKS

Glorious

FOOD

THE PROS DISH ON THE LATEST TRENDS IN FOOD & BEVERAGES

(37)

TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

THE MOMENT YOUR AUSTIN EXPERIENCE REACHED NEW HEIGHTS

ELEVATE YOUR EVENT THIS SPRING WITH FAIRMONT AUSTIN 50 TO 100 ROOMS ON PEAK SELECT FROM THE BELOW ITEMS TO ELEVATE YOUR EVENT Choose one (1) item Complimentary wireless internet in meeting space to elevate your event 10% discount on in-house DMC services 101 TO 300 ROOMS ON PEAK Return 2 night stay for meeting planner Choose two (2) items 15% discount on PSAV Audio Visual to elevate your event 15% discount on Published Banquet Menu Pricing 301+ ROOMS ON PEAK Complimentary One (1) hour wine & beer Welcome Reception Choose three (3) items 1 per 50 Complimentary Upgrade to Luxury Suite to elevate your event $250 Fairmont Gift Card Must be a new group inquiry; not applicable for groups in progress or previously touched by a salesperson.

Special bonus savings are available when your meeting has peak room nights on a Saturday, Sunday or Monday.

101 Red River Street Austin, TX 78701 rfp-aus@farmont.com 512.451.4573 FairmontATX FairmontATX

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the perfect galveston island retreats for business or pleasure

ASK ABOUT WYNDHAM’S GO MEET PROGRAM

Hotel Galvez & Spa and The Tremont House have long been the locations of choice for corporate retreats in Galveston. The beachfront location of Hotel Galvez & Spa offers expansive Gulf views, the island’s finest spa, the Galvez Bar & Grill and an award-winning Sunday brunch. The Tremont House, located in the historic Strand District, is within walking distance of a wide array of shops, restaurants, museums and galleries. Both hotels provide ideal venues for intimate and grand gatherings in a unique and historic setting. Call today and let us assist you in meeting your goals.

2024 SEAWALL BLVD., GALVESTON ISLAND, TX

2300 SHIP’S MECHANIC ROW, GALVESTON ISLAND, TX

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409.763.0300 | www.TheTremontHouse.com

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Spring 2019 TEXAS MEETINGS + EVENTS MAGAZINE: IN THIS ISSUE

FEATURE

37

ROYAL FIG CATERING DESSERT SHOOTERS

Food(ies) for Thought

What trends are you seeing on your event menus?

FEATURE

32

Give Me a Break

Experts share unique meeting break ideas that keep attendees engaged between sessions.

By Melissa Sersland

DEPARTMENTS 8 EDITOR’S LETTER 22 TABLESCAPE The perfect setting for Cinco de Mayo.

By Julie Scagell

24 VENUE REPORT For a relaxing destination, choose a lake resort.

72 PEOPLE PROFILE Robert Watson celebrates 30 years with Hilton.

By Roger Gordon

By Teresa Kenney

28 DESTINATION Lubbock offers lots to love for meeting and events planners.

By Belinda Lichty Clarke

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P H OTO : S A S H A H A AG E N S E N P H OTO G R A P H Y

By Teresa Kenney

C

“TAKE OUR TECH FOR A SPIN” our tech stats

802.11

2,500+

a/g/n/ac Wireless Network

CAT 6 Copper UTP Ports

1,000+

Multi-mode and single-mode Fiber Optic ports

20,000

Wireless devices can connect simultaneously

SERVICES OFFERED The Austin Convention Center has a full suite of services that are provided to you to ensure peak P H OTO : S A S H A H A AG E N S E N P H OTO G R A P H Y

performance throughout your event. These services are in place to design an environment specifically scaled to your event needs. This customization includes: Wireless Internet Access

Wired Internet Access

Network Service & Support

Voice Service & Support

Network support Our team is ready to provide expert assistance to any networking needs you may have during your event. With constant network monitoring, we can quickly solve issues that come up, and proactively address areas of concern.

CHECK US AT:

w w w. a u s t i n c o n v e n t i o n c e n t e r .c o m

request a proposAL: Phone 512.404.4200

Spring

2019

14

16

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MEETING NOTES 11 SUSTAINABLE SWAG Keep your next bash green with these fresh, fun and eco-friendly products.

16 TOURS Dallas introduces its Margarita Mile.

By Megan Gosch

16 VENUE PROFILE The AT&T Hotel and Conference Center is a lesson in doing meetings right.

12 COMING SOON PGA Headquarters is headed to Frisco.

By Jenna Barbari

12 TASTE Game-changing coffee comes to Texas A&M.

44

12 GET TO KNOW Head to the water in Bay Area Houston.

14 GROUP ACTIVITIES New bike park opens near Austin.

14 IT’S YOUR BIZ Military reunions are rewarding experiences for the guests and the venues.

By Sharon Danitschek

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18 BEYOND THE BORDER Grab your passports for a meeting in the mountains of Whistler in British Columbia.

By Teresa Kenney

20 SIGNATURE DRINK Elderflower Lemon Drop, courtesy of

62 INFOGRAPHIC Find out how restaurant and food service operators are integrating sustainability practices into their daily business operations. Research courtesy National Restaurant Association

64 REGIONAL NEWS New hires, kudos earned and more.

70 SNAPSHOTS ILEA Dallas gives back. By Teresa Kenney

The Butler House

20 FLASHBACK Tremont House is built on a history of gracious hospitality.

ON THE COVER Royal Fig Catering uses fresh, local ingredients in its menus.

Julie Wilhite Photography

P H O T O S : V I S I T D A L L A S ; S P I D E R M O U N TA I N ; W H I S T L E R

INDUSTRY UPDATE

(817) 430-1561 | www.circlerranch.org

P H O T O S : V I S I T D A L L A S ; S P I D E R M O U N TA I N ; W H I S T L E R

EDITOR'S LETTER

Gone to Texas SIX YEARS AGO, I MOVED TO TEXAS IN THE SPRING. So I think it’s only fitting that my

Teresa Kenney, editor TERESA.KENNEY@TIGEROAK.COM

first issue as editor of Texas Meetings + Events is the spring issue.

In the six years that I’ve lived here, I’ve experienced the devastation of Hurricane Harvey—and the compassion and humanity it generated. I’ve gone antique shopping at Round Top, roseate spoonbill spotting in Galveston and Christmas caroling in College Station. I’ve walked in the Zen gardens of a Buddhist temple in Port Arthur and sat in the shadow of the state Capitol. I’ve toured the back stages of Houston’s theater district, experienced the whirlwind of festivities of the Renaissance Festival, sat behind the glass of mission control at NASA and shopped at the booths of an art festival in Salado.

I think what surprises me the most about Texas is that I’ve only scratched the surface of everything to see and do here.

For example, this issue’s Destination about Lubbock (page 28) has me itching to head to the Panhandle Plains to snap a selfie behind the oversize glasses in front of the Buddy Holly Center and take a tour of the public art at Texas Tech. I’m also ready to hit one of the 200 lakes in Texas—particularly some of those at the resorts highlighted in this issue’s Venue Report (page 24).

I’m definitely looking forward to getting to know our industry’s thought leaders. We spoke to some for our feature articles on fun food trends (page 37) and engaging meeting breaks (page 32).

The creative genius among the meetings and events professionals in Texas is impressive, and I can’t wait to learn more.

With that said, I encourage you to reach out to me at Teresa.Kenney@tigeroak.com—whether you have an idea to share, a story to tell or just want to say hi! One thing I know without a doubt about Texans: You’re a friendly bunch. I can’t wait to meet you.

Cheers,

Find, Friend, Follow

Find us online at tx.meetingsmags.com, and make sure to “like” us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram to stay in the loop between issues. / T XMEE TINGSMAGS

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@T XMEE TINGSMAGS

/MEE TINGSMAGS

/MEE TINGSE VENTSMAGS

SPRING 2019

“

What’s the best swag you’ve received at an event?

”

A beautiful tweed pouch which is the perfect size to carry my Kindle!

tx.meetingsmags.com

EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR SENIOR EDITOR DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

EDITORIAL INTERNS

I have a cute collection of stuffed animals at my desk.

Teresa Kenney

Masterpiece

Morgan Halaska Megan Gosch Julianna Fazio Sharon Danitschek, Roger Gordon, Belinda Lichty Clarke, Julie Scagell, Melissa Sersland Jenna Barbari, Taylor Hafner, Kendall Van Horne

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Chris Arredondo, Eclipse Entertainment • Yvette Audrain, Simply Mox • Andy Austin, Andy Austin Entertainment Kelly Bagnall, Dykema Gossett PLLC • Deborah Elias, Elias Events • Lisa Dalton, Hotel Palomar Dallas Kevin Foster, Conference & Catering Consultant Services • Christy Hill-Howard, Christy Hill Events Rob Keating, M&M Event Rentals • Steve Kemble, Steve Kemble Event Design • Cindy Lo, Red Velvet Events Inc. Terri McBride, Austin Convention Center • Jim Monroe, J. Monroe Designs • Diana Pfaff, Irving CVB John Shore, Shore Public Relations • Laurie Sprouse, Ultimate Ventures • Leigh Stem, AFR Event Furnishings Dayne Sullivan, Adventures LLC • Marla Watson-Werst, PeaPod Productions DESIGN DIRECTOR ART DIRECTORS

VIP pack at SXSW 2007: About 3 dozen CDs of music and a voodoo doll.

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR PROJECT COORDINATORS CIRCULATION DIRECTOR SUBSCRIPTION MARKETING SPECIALIST DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & EVENTS MARKETING & EVENTS COORDINATOR SENIOR ACCOUNTANT CREDIT MANAGER ACCOUNTANT WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER WEB ADVERTISING COORDINATOR ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER– NATIONAL SALES

Courtney Nielsen Traci Zellmann, Taylor Kilgore Dianne Talmage Brittni Dye, Alex Kotlarek Jeremy Wieland Emily O’Connell Lauren Madeja Jen McIlvaine Lisa Sabrowsky April McCauley Katie Bodin Sandy Powell Angela Beissel

A wireless, Bluetooth speaker

Ryan Miller 469.264.7657 ryan.miller@tigeroak.com

California Meetings + Events • 303.617.0548 Colorado Meetings + Events • 303.617.0548 Illinois Meetings + Events • 312.755.1133 Michigan Meetings + Events • 586.416.4195 Minnesota Meetings + Events • 612.548.3874 Mountain Meetings • 303.617.0548 Northeast Meetings + Events • 586.416.4195 Northwest Meetings + Events • 612.548.3874

IRVING ROCKS

Innovative Meeting and Event Space

Reprints: For high-quality reprints of 500 or more call 1-800-637-0334 or email reprints@tigeroak.com.

For address changes, ordering single copies, cancellations, or general questions about your subscription please contact customer service at 1-800-637-0334 or customerservice@tigeroak.com Texas Meetings + Events accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork; they will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope.

T IGE R OA K M E D I A

FOUNDER & CEO PRESIDENT CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER VICE PRESIDENT OF DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

R. Craig Bednar Tony Bednar Barb Steinhauser Susan Isay Jim Younger

900 South Third St., Minneapolis, MN 55415 Phone: 612.548.3180 Fax: 612.548.3181 Published quarterly Texas Meetings + Events, Spring 2019 © 2019 Tiger Oak Media. All rights reserved.

irvingtxmeetings.com discoverirvingconventioncenter.com (972) 252 7476 (800) 2 IRVING

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FOR PROOF ONLY - PROOF 1 Magazine Ad will run: TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM 9 Texas Meetings + Events, Spring 2019 Ad Size: 1/3 vertical 2.25”x10” This proof does not reflect the image quality of the final printed piece. Photos or im-

PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

Meeting Notes IT’S YOUR BIZ

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VENUE PROFILE

16

BEYOND THE BORDER

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SIGNATURE DRINK 20

Sustainable SWAG

Three eco-friendly products offer a fresh take on common event goodies.

The Amazing Pasta Straw

With the global spread of plastic straw bans, plenty of plastic-free alternatives have hit the mainstream. The Amazing Pasta Straw, made simply from wheat and water, is completely biodegradable (that is, if it isn’t eaten). Unlike plastic straws, these won’t break down midsip and are clean of dyes and glues. Planners can test the straws with a sample pack or buy in bulk for large meetings and events. pastastraws.org

Amborella Organics Lollipops

Amborella Organics lollipops are as eyecatching as they are environmentally friendly.

The hand-poured organic pops are made from cane sugar and edible herbs and flowers such as lavender, hibiscus and mint for a refreshing burst of flavor and striking visual.

But it’s Amborella’s patented seed-bearing technology that makes these sweet treats a gift that keeps on giving. After enjoying a lollipop, simply plant the biodegradable stem and wait for a seedling to sprout. Seeds correspond to each pop flavor and while Amborella offers unique options like Peach & Marigold or Sage & Marshmallow, Champagne & Roses has become a crowd favorite for events. Planners can even work with Amborella to craft co-branding opportunities and custom flavors. amborellaorganics.com

P H OTO S : J O E L S C H N E L L

Dust City Designs Wood Stickers

Made from FSC certified wood, Wood Stickers are etched, cut and printed by lasers and printers, then sanded and finished by hand. Unlike vinyl stickers, the wood decals are fully biodegradable, helping to eliminate micro-plastic pollution. With over 2,500 stock designs and the ability to create custom stickers, planners can join companies like Whole Foods and Instagram in creating guilt-free branded swag. woodstickers.com — Megan Gosch

TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

COMING SOON»

Founders Park Tookie’s

PGA HQ Headed ‘FORE’ Frisco

Butler Longhorn Museum

GET TO KNOW»

BAY AREA HOUSTON

S

hawna Reid, marketing and visitor center manager for the Bay Area Houston Convention & Visitors Bureau, has lived all over the world. A self-described Air Force “brat” who then became an Air Force spouse was living in Colorado Springs, Colorado, when she met her husband. They moved to Bay Area Houston for her husband’s job in 2006. One of the things she loves about her adopted hometown is the sheer amount of things to do within 50 miles of her front door.

“We have four professional sports teams in Houston less than an hour drive, year-round festivals, the fun of the Kemah Boardwalk and Space Center Houston is out of this world.

Galveston Island is only 30 minutes away with beaches, cruise ships and tons of history. Bay Area Houston also offers a tremendous amount

of culinary delights! We are a foodie’s dream with restaurants that have been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel and in national publications,” says Reid.

One of her favorite things to do is get out on the water with family and friends—an easy enough option thanks to her waterside locale. “Bay Area Houston is home to one of the top five pleasure-boat communities in the U.S. There is always something going on out on Clear Lake or around Galveston Bay,” she says.

Bay Area Houston encompasses the cities of Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay and Seabrook.

The communities offer approximately 1,700 hotel rooms, including two full-service properties with convention space and meeting rooms. Reid says that plans call for additional convention facilities and full-service hotels. Bay Area Houston is also near two airports: Hobby, which is 30 minutes away and George Bush Intercontinental, less than an hour away. visitbayareahouston.com

WITH FRISCO NAMED THE “2018 Best Place to Live in America”

by Money magazine, it’s no surprise that the PGA of America headquarters is relocating to the north Texas city. The PGA is planning a 600-acre, mixed-use development and is partnering with the Omni Stillwater Woods (OSW), a joint venture by Omni Hotels & Resorts with Stillwater Capital.

In addition to two championship golf courses, a short course, practice areas and a clubhouse, the development will include Class AA office space, a 500-room Omni Resort and a 127,000-square-foot convention center. The golf courses are expected to open in the summer of 2022, and the hotel and convention center are expected to open within the following six months. The development will host the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship in 2023 as well as two PGA Championships, two KPMG Women’s PGA Championships and a potential Ryder Cup. pga.com —Jenna Barbari

TASTE»

GAME-CHANGING COFFEE Former Texas A&M student and NFL player Floyd Raven has returned to Texas A&M—this time as a coffee magnate. Raven’s company, Last Shot Xpresso, opened at the new Doug Pitcock ’49 Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center.

Raven, a business graduate, launched his coffee company in 2017. Last Shot Xpresso offers rich and unique coffee blends with athletically inspired names.

Its blends are available in every bar and restaurant in the hotel and conference center, as well as through the conference center’s catering. lastshotxpresso.com

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P H O T O S : L A S T S H O T X P R E S S O ; B AY A R E A H O U S T O N

Development plans also call for a resort, golf courses and a convention center.

IT’S ALL HERE WHEN YOU

meet in DENTON Embassy Suites by Hilton Denton Convention Center

P H O T O S : L A S T S H O T X P R E S S O ; B AY A R E A H O U S T O N

New 318-suite hotel offering 70,000 sq.ft. of flexible meeting space

Call Dana Lodge for all your meeting needs 888-381-1818 • dana@discoverdenton.com discoverdenton.com

Denton Convention & Visitors Bureau

PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

IT’S YOUR BIZ»

HOSTING OUR VETERANS

Military reunions are rewarding experiences for both the guests and venues.

BY SH A RON DA NITSCHEK ichard and the guys sat in the hospitality space for what seemed like hours—joyful for their annual time together, yet sad at the loss of a few more. Their wives, having heard their stories before (at each telling, the women get prettier and the waves larger), had already retired to their rooms. For four days they talked and laughed and, at times, shed a tear or two. On the last night, they dined together at a special banquet that included a memorial service to those fallen.

This is what a military reunion looks like.

Outsiders will probably see a bunch of selfdescribed “old farts” with their blue veteran hats, connecting them to the aircraft carriers they served on. They meet every year.

Some bring their children or grandchildren along. While it may seem like just a bunch of old guys getting together to swap war stories, there is an indescribable calm and healing with these reunions. Together they served. Together, they promised, “got your six” (a military term that means, “I’ve got your back”). Together they experienced the horrors of war and, often, the challenges of returning home to an ungrateful nation.

Words never uttered to anyone else can flow freely among them.

The military-reunion market is comprised of more than 14,000 annual reunions, with an overall hospitality industry spend tipping $100 million. Although it’s small compared to corporate or association meetings, the strength of this market comes in its timing amenability—its flexibility to fill soft dates between April and October. Hoteliers should review need dates and promote those as options when responding to RFPs. Within that seven-month reunion season, September is by far the most popular month for veteran reunions. The 2018 Military Reunion Market (MRN) survey concluded that September is also the month preferred

by the hospitality industry to welcome these reunions to their cities. It’s a match made in heaven.

The heartbeat of the reunion is the hospitality space. Planners are looking for a 700- to 1,500-square-foot space with plenty of room for reunion merchandise, memorabilia, raffles, food and beverage, and of course fellowship. While presidential suites are lovely, they are too small for the needs for the reunion hospitality. They need a banquet room. This need can create a conflict, as groups routinely want to bring in their own alcohol without charge as they have for years. Liability and hotel policies have come into play in the past five to 10 years, forcing planners to shift to the new restrictions.

Savvy hoteliers needing to fill dates should consider negotiating pricing down to costplus-a-dollar.

Reunion planners look for full-service hotels within 40 miles of a major airport that feature low pricing, complimentary parking and breakfast, nearby area attractions with a military or historical theme, and, most importantly, a patriotic CVB partner. The MRN survey noted that planners will make at least one pre-reunion trip more than 85 percent of the time. Contracts are signed 18 months out. In addition to site inspections, be prepared to support them with RFP distribution assistance. Any additional services, such as lapel pins, reunion attendee badges, free T-shirts to reunion attendees or gift bags, are also appreciated.

The record revenues over the past few years have priced many destinations out of the military reunion market, but Smith Travel Research suggests these record revenue days will not sustain in the years to come. The time to start working with this market is before the shift occurs, as business secured now will arrive when needed.

SHARON DANITSCHEK IS PRESIDENT OF THE MILITARY REUNION NETWORK. THROUGH EDUCATION, CONNECTIONS AND RESOURCES, THE ORGANIZATION SUPPORTS VETERANS PLANNING MILITARY REUNIONS AND THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY THAT HOSTS THEM. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT MILITARYREUNIONNETWORK.COM.

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GROUP ACTIVITIES»

NEW BIKE PARK OPENS GOT SOME SHREDDERS IN YOUR GROUP OF DELEGATES? Well lucky

you (and them!). Spider Mountain Bike Park opened earlier this year, making it the only mountain bike park in Texas offering lift-served trails. It is also the only year-round lift-served bike park in North America.

Spider Mountain Bike Park features beginner, intermediate and advanced trails, all accessible via a four-person chairlift ride. The terrain has a variety of trail types, features and experiences, including downhill flow trails and technical trails with a number of features like bridges, berms, jumps and more.

The park also offers mountain bike and gear rentals, lessons and guided tours.

Spider Mountain is located in the Highland Lakes area in central Texas, approximately 60 miles northwest of Austin, 200 miles southwest of Dallas, 110 miles north of San Antonio, and approximately 200 miles northwest of Houston. Adjacent to the park is Thunderbird Lodge & Event Center Resort with 23 lodging units, including a large luxury log cabin and cottages. spidermountain.com

P H O T O S : C O U R T E S Y O F S P I D E R M O U N TA I N B I K E PA R K

R

no matter your HOBBY

P H O T O S : C O U R T E S Y O F S P I D E R M O U N TA I N B I K E PA R K

DENTON is the place to meet

Call Erin Wilson for all your meeting needs 888-381-1818 • erin@discoverdenton.com discoverdenton.com

Denton Convention & Visitors Bureau

PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

TOURS»

Wasted Away Again in Margaritaville DALLAS IS FAMOUS FOR A LOT OF things, but one you may not be aware of is its claim to fame as the home of the frozen margarita! In 1971, Dallas inventor, entrepreneur and restaurateur Mariano Martinez invented the frozen margarita machine, adapting it from a soft-service ice cream machine.

That first machine now sits in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

As a tip of the hat to this tasty and momentous accomplishment, VisitDallas has introduced its Margarita Mile, a self-guided tour of the most sought-after margaritas in the city. The convention and visitor bureau claims “no bottle of tequila” was “unturned” in the making of this margarita bucket list. The city’s “best and most brazen” margaritas have been curated into one colorful (and free!) app available on Apple Store and Google Play. margaritamiledallas.com

VENUE PROFILE»

T

he AT&T Hotel and Conference Center, located on the campus of the University of Texas at Austin, is a study on how to meet smart. The sustainability-focused (it’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design gold certified and chefs use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible) venue first opened its doors in 2008 and renovated its rooms in 2016. In 2018, the center celebrated the grand opening of its highly anticipated 30,000-squarefoot expansion, which includes the 15,000-square-foot Zlotnik Family Ballroom, 5,000 square feet of prefunction space, nine meeting rooms and an additional banquet kitchen.

The prefunction space features a stunning 4,000-square-foot mural by José Parlá, a Brooklyn-based artist

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known for his paintings, sculpture, photography and architectural collaborations.

The expansion brings the venue’s total event space to more than 83,000 square feet. The project was done in conjunction with the construction of the brand-new 497,500-square-foot graduate business facility, Robert B. Rowling Hall, which will house the Texas McCombs MBA and M.S. in Technology Commercialization programs, the Jon Brumley Texas Venture Labs, the John C. Goff Labs, and the Center for Leadership and Ethics. The facility also includes a state-of-the-art studio for video and sound production and the Rowling Hall Courtyard for mingling alfresco between sessions. meetattexas.com

P H O T O S : AT&T H O T E L A N D C O N F E R E N C E C E N T E R ; V I S I T D A L L A S

AT&T Hotel and Conference Center Expands Its Meetings Options

P H O T O S : AT&T H O T E L A N D C O N F E R E N C E C E N T E R ; V I S I T D A L L A S

­

PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

Clockwise from left: Editor Teresa Kenney, soaring on the zip line; warming up with some tea on the Medicine Trail in Callaghan Valley; the perfect day for skiing; one of the resort’s gondolas.

BEYOND THE BORDER»

For a destination meeting or incentive trip, consider Whistler, British Columbia.

BY TERESA KENNEY

I

’m afraid of heights. That is, I think I am.

At least I used to be. I don’t mean to sound confused, but you see a recent FAM trip to Whistler, British Columbia, has me a tad puzzled. That’s a photo of me (above), tethered to the zip line, flying through the trees, between the mountains and in the snow. Me. The person who gets a queasy feeling when I drive the spaghetti bowl of overpasses in Houston.

Whistler will do that to you—make you forget you’re an unapologetic, urban-loving, won’t-go-to-the-mailbox-without-my-lipstickon, high-maintenance editor. But after three days in Whistler, I’m dying to go back, itching to learn how to snowboard and ready to try my hand at rock climbing. Maybe it’s the mountain air and high altitude, but I do believe Whistler has turned me outdoorsy.

So if you have any reservations about taking your “city-fied” group to the wild beauty

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of Whistler, rest assured, they’ll love it. This four-season destination is the perfect setting for meeting and event groups.

Where to Stay & Meet “Whistler was a phenomenal destination for meetings and events. They have a variety of hotels in varying price points and ample meeting space at most hotels, or utilization of the lovely conference center,” says Kristen Pinyerd with etc group out of Arlington, who was also on the December FAM trip.

Five, full-service hotels have nearly 80,000 square feet of meeting space: Four Seasons Resort Whistler (12,695 square feet), Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa (10,406 square feet), Westin Resort and Spa (20,000 square feet), the Nita Lake Lodge (5,210 square feet) and Fairmont Chateau Whistler (32,000 square feet). In addition, the hamlet has a convention

What to Do For the sports enthusiasts in your group, Whistler is a veritable playground. Ski season is generally from late November through the middle of May, weather and snow permitting, so hitting the slopes is always a good call in the late fall through late spring. Spring, summer and fall are also prime times for hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, paddleboarding and golfing. Your group can even book a private ax-throwing party. Yep. You read that right.

If your group not interested in working

P H O T O S : C O A S T M O U N TA I N P H O T O G R A P H Y

HEAD FOR THE MOUNTAINS

center with 40,000 square feet of meeting and event space and a variety of unique venue spaces that can be reserved, as well, including the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and the Audain Art Museum. You can even choose a mountaintop perch for your event at the Roundhouse Lodge or a VIP gathering at one of the resort’s Olympic venues, such as the Whistler Sliding Centre.

“I was pleasantly surprised,” says Pinyerd about the town. “So much [is] offered in such a small area. I love that you can easily navigate around the town on foot, and each hotel has buses if you need transport that way.”

P H O T O S : C O A S T M O U N TA I N P H O T O G R A P H Y

Live your meeting at Live! by Loews-Arlington

up a sweat, no worries. Whistler has plenty of nonsports activities as well. Take time for a shopping excursion in Whistler Village, tour the arts and cultural museums or take a nighttime stroll through the Vallea Lumina.

Open mid-June through mid-October, it’s a multimedia night walk through the forests of Cougar Mountain. And, of course, there’s always the option to spend a day at one of the resort’s spas for pampering and relaxing after a long day and an even longer agenda.

At night, immerse yourself in Whistler’s nightlife. Your group can head to Bearfoot Bistro for a frosty flight of vodka in its subzero Ketel One Ice Room or try a brewery tour and tasting at Coast Mountain Brewing Co. “Whistler really has something to offer for everyone—and year-round! If you like the outdoors, you’re set! If you like to spa, you’re set!

If you like to shop, you’re set,” says Pinyerd.

And of course, zip lining. You have to try the zip lining.

1600 E. Randol Mill Road Arlington, TX 76011

Get Connected

682.277.4900 loewshotels.com/arlington-live

ETC GROUP | etcgrouponline.com | 817.462.0100 TOURISM WHISTLER | whistler.com | 855.938.2770

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PRODUCTS, PLACES & INSPIRATION

FLASHBACK»

THIRD TIME’S A CHARM The Tremont House is built on a history of luxury, hospitality and prestige.

Elderflower

Lemon Drop The large clusters of the white, creamy flower of the elderberry is a frequent sight in the wilds of Texas May through July, so what better way to kick off the spring season than with a glass of The Butler House’s Elderflower Lemon Drop? Mix one up yourself and enjoy!

—1 oz. 1876 Vodka —1 oz. St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur —1 oz. lemon juice —1/2 oz. Turbo simple syrup Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake then strain into a sugar-rimmed martini glass and garnish with lemon zest.

Cheers!

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Courtesy of

THE BUTLER HOUSE thebutlerhouse.net

P H OTO S : CO U R T E SY O F T H E T R E M O N T H O U S E ; I S TO C K .CO M /S A N D O C L R

G

SIGNATURE DRINK»

alveston’s original Tremont House was built in 1839, the same year the city was founded. Dubbed “the Belle of the South” only 26 years later, it was razed by a fire that swept through Galveston’s Strand District. In 1872, it was reimagined and reopened as a grand four-story architectural gem that would go on to attract some of the world’s dignitaries.. The second Tremont property was later demolished in 1928 after surviving a hurricane in 1900. Decades later, in 1985, community leaders George and Cynthia Mitchell reopened the doors to The Tremont House, this time at the former address of the Leon & H. Blum Building, which was built in 1879.

Today, 34 years later, The Tremont House, A Wyndham Grand Hotel, is known as a premier hotel with modern amenities and architectural elements of its rich past, such as exposed brick walls and pressed-tin ceilings. The hotel has a café, rooftop lounge—looking out over the cruise ships leaving the harbor—and a lobby bar. Additional amenities include 16,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including the Sam Houston Ballroom with brick walls and the Tremont Ballroom with soaring 14-foot ceilings. The adjacent Annex, with 1,925 square feet of space, can accommodate up to 150 guests. thetremonthouse.com

P H OTO S : CO U R T E SY O F T H E T R E M O N T H O U S E ; I S TO C K .CO M /S A N D O C L R

HAVE STORIES TO TELL.

Exceeding expectations by creating experiences.

Make plans for holding your event at Atlantis Casino Resort Spa Reno.

The stories you’ll tell will be endless. Top notch service complete with state-of-the-art meeting rooms, tech savvy amenities and the only resort connected to the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Dine in top-ranked restaurants and unwind at Spa Atlantis, the only Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star spa in northern Nevada.

Book a world-class experience today.

Contact the Sales Department at 800.994.5900 or visit us at atlantiscasino.com/texasmeetings to submit an RFP.

TABLESCAPE CINCO DE MAYO

BOLD COLORS & PLAYFUL DETAILS

Peerless Events and Tents sets the table for Cinco de Mayo.

BY JULIE SCAGELL

THIS SIMPLE YET PLAYFUL TABLESCAPE would be an inviting setting for any special occasion, but to ring in Cinco de Mayo, one of the first fêtes of summer, it is utter perfection. Matching the colorful and festive nature of the holiday with bold table runners and eye-catching centerpieces was a critical component to ensure every guests’ senses were engaged from the moment they walked

Renee Steele, event consultant/outside sales for Peerless Events and Tents, says this particular occasion was for a National Association for Catering and Events (NACE) meeting.

The goal: to show others in the industry Peerless was more than just a tenting company (which is where its roots were formerly planted), with plenty of tabletop inventory.

The Cavanaugh Flight Museum in Addison produced the perfect backdrop to give the dramatic effect Peerless was looking to accomplish. The dinner was held in one of the museum’s hangars with old world war aircraft situated in the background, so there was no shortage of history and drama to complement the décor.

The centerpieces’ multicolored roses were flanked with red and orange bell peppers, banana peppers, and miniature piñatas, providing varying heights and textures and a nod to the celebration at hand. The brightly colored individual menus noted each of the dinner’s four-course tapas and family-style courses (all paired with signature cocktails).

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Tables were positioned to create a rustic-meets-modern atmosphere. Farm tables and cross-back wooden bar stools mingled in with contemporary white rectangular tables with chrome accents and ghost chairs, all placed in a 360-degree sunburst pattern around the stage (this was the first time this layout was used at a NACE meeting).

The Peerless executive team has decades of experience in the party rental and production industry, and owners Will Wright and Matt Cosby continue to remain involved in every order to ensure each event is handled with the same care their customers have become accustomed. Founded in Dallas, the business has since expanded to Austin, Houston and San Antonio.

Steele says she’s most proud of how everyone came together for the event. “It was a fun collaboration to work with the caterer, vendors and museum coordinator to not only display what Peerless has to offer but also show the abundance of camaraderie our industry has as a whole.”

P H OTO G R A P H S BY T E S H O R N JAC K S O N

through the doors.

Get Connected Table and Chairs; Staging; Flatware and Napkins; Plates and Glassware: PEERLESS EVENTS AND TENTS peerlesseventsandtents.com 972.602.3303 Centerpieces and Table Runner: MAGIC MOMENTS PARTIES AND EVENTS magicmomentsevents.com 214.688.9900 Location: CAVANAUGH FLIGHT MUSEUM cavflight.org 972.380.8800

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VENUE REPORT LAKESIDE VENUES

ON LAKE TIME

For a relaxing and inspiring meeting destination, choose one of Texas’ lake resorts.

BY ROGER GORDON

Yes, the crashing of the waves along the gulf is incredibly invigorating.

And a walk riverside can clear the mind and lift the spirit. But nothing can beat the lap, lap, lap of the lake water hitting the shore for a truly hypnotic and mesmerizing experience. Lucky for us, Texas has nearly 200 lakes, many of which offer the perfect setting for your next meeting or event. Here are a few of our favorites.

Lakeway Resort and Spa; Austin Lakeway Resort and Spa is a hidden gem.

“Everyone who comes out here is just amazed,” says Director of Sales Lisa Crowell.

“Our point of distinction is unbelievable views

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and unforgettable memories. We’re on Lake Travis, and more than 80 percent of our inventory is lake views. You have absolutely breathtaking views all around. There is no commercial property really that you can see from the

hotel. There is one little marina across the lake, but basically, it’s all just beautiful homes and a lakeside mansion.”

The resort offers three outdoor swimming pools, an outdoor hot tub and a spa. “For boating, Lakeway Marina is adjacent to the hotel,” Crowell says. “You can rent sailboats, fishing boats, party barges and Jet Skis there.”

The glass Vistas Ballroom overlooks the lake. “It is very sought-after by meeting professionals,” says Crowell. “Groups absolutely love having their meetings in there. It’s definitely the premier meeting venue on the

P H O T O : L A K E WAY R E S O R T A N D S PA ; L A T O R R E T TA L A K E R E S O R T & S PA

Lakeway Resort and Spa in Austin is set on Lake Travis.

P H O T O : L A K E WAY R E S O R T A N D S PA ; L A T O R R E T TA L A K E R E S O R T & S PA

La Torretta Laake Resort & Spa

Lakeway Resort and Spa

property. It can accommodate up to 300 guests for a seated dinner and up to 450 for a cocktail party. Eleven meeting spaces have natural light, so that’s a really sought-after, unique feature as well. We have 15 event spaces overall.”

Catering is done in-house. Two favorites are the Mediterranean and Asian buffets. “TexMex entrees are also very popular in these parts,” Crowell says.

“We’re a more boutique-style meeting venue,” continues Crowell. “It’s just a great family location, a great atmosphere. It’s highend casual, Texas-chic casual.”

Lakeway Resort and Spa

La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa; Montgomery An all-encompassing view of Lake Conroe welcomes guests at La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa. “Every guest room has a balcony and a view of the lake,” says Director of Sales and Marketing Jacque Stilwell. “We also have a cove where you can dock your boat. There’s a beach for swimming, five outdoor swimming pools, a golf course, a spa and an aqua park.

We also have eight restaurants, including our upscale lakeside restaurant.”

A conference center provides 19 event spaces. “We’re very versatile. We can do just about

any kind of setup,” Stilwell says. “There are a lot of unique options both indoor and outdoor.”

One of two ballrooms is a glassed space that overlooks the lake. The other ballroom is the resort’s largest event space. It can accommodate up to 400 guests seated and up to 600 standing.

Catering is done in-house, but outside catering is allowed on occasion. A favorite entrée is the surf-n-turf. Barbecues are also popular.

Says Stilwell, “It’s a resort atmosphere with a small-town feel.”

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VENUE REPORT LAKESIDE VENUES

Cibolo Creek Ranch

Get Connected CIBOLO CREEK RANCH cibolocreekranch.com 432.229.3737 HORSESHOE BAY RESORT hsbresort.com | 877.611.0112 LA TORRETTA LAKE RESORT & SPA latorrettalakeresort.com 936.448.4400 LAKEWAY RESORT AND SPA lakewayresortandspa.com 512.261.6600

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Horseshoe Bay Resort Yacht Club

Horseshoe Bay Resort

Cibolo Creek Ranch; Marfa

Resting on the shores of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson, Horseshoe Bay Resort is an upscale lifestyle vacation destination. “A short drive from Austin and San Antonio, the picture-perfect country scenery inspires you to unwind here,” says Marketing Manager Amy Taylor. “You can play a round of golf on three of our championship courses. There are other fun, friendly activities, including boating, tennis and pickleball.

The Texas Hill Country inspires guests when you plan a meeting, social event or corporate gathering.

You have a choice of intriguing meeting venues from instant hospitality suites to scenic beaches.”

The resort provides the perfect setting for functions of any size with a blend of superior service, modern technology and waterfront relaxation. In the hotel tower, which has most of the guest rooms, there are 24 event spaces. The largest can accommodate up to 800 guests seated and up to 1,000 standing. Throughout the rest of the property, there are 34 versatile, creative event spaces.

Catering is provided in-house. Favorite entrees include the grilled New York strip steak, the corn-crusted sea bass and the truffle-roasted farm chicken.

Cibolo Creek Ranch is a true working ranch. “I’d call it a luxury ranch experience,” says General Manager Tina Harlow. “It’s in the beautiful Big Bend area and the Davis Mountains. The ranch is on a small lake that’s crystal clear. Every image is reflected off of it.

It has the mountains right behind it. The tallest peak is Chinati Peak, which is about 7,100 feet. The lake is an attraction for ducks that are migrating, so there are often some lovely ducks on it. We also have two pet geese that often swim out on the lake. We have paddleboats and fishing rods for guests at no charge.

We also have an outdoor pool and an outdoor hot tub. In-room masseuse treatments are available, too.”

Groups can rent the entire property, which includes both indoor and outdoor spaces. The largest indoor space can accommodate up to 60 guests seated and up to 100 standing. The largest outdoor space can host up to 250 guests seated and up to 500 standing. “We have beautiful lawns where tents can be set up,” Harlow says.

Planners can use the in-house caterer for groups of up to 100 guests or provide their own for groups of more than 100. Favorite entrees include the quail, the beef tenderloin and the salmon.

P H O T O : H O R S E S H O E B AY R E S O R T ; C I B O L O C R E E K R A N C H

Cibolo Creek Ranch

We Will Meet You in the Middle Come experience why other meeting planners have seen record attendance in Temple, TX! • Within 3 hours of 88% of the population • Conveniently located on I-35 • More than 150,000 sq. ft. of meeting space • Sleeping rooms for every price point • Outstanding customer service!

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P H O T O : H O R S E S H O E B AY R E S O R T ; C I B O L O C R E E K R A N C H

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DESTINATION LUBBOCK

LOTS TO LOVE IN LUBBOCK Unique venues in this vibrant college town make for memorable meetings.

BY BELINDA LICHT Y CL A R K E

Eberley Brooks Events’ 9,600-square-foot barn can accommodate groups of up to 300.

(now Texas Tech) in what was then a small West Texas hamlet. Today, the city boasts a quarter of a million residents and continues to thrive as a bustling college town with a student population of more than 36,000.

But aside from the draw of Big 12 athletics and campus activities, Lubbock is famous in its own right for a host of attractions that draw meeting attendees and visitors from all over the world, such as the Buddy Holly Center, which pays tribute to the cherished rock ‘n’ roller and Lubbock native. And he’s not the only star to rise from the area: The West Texas Walk of Fame honors other West Texas music legends, such as Waylon Jennings, Tanya Tucker, Jimmy Dean, Roy Orbison, Joe Ely and more.

Meet & Stay Overton Hotel & Conference Center offers the distinction of being the only AAA Four

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Diamond hotel in West Texas and recently completed a $3 million upgrade to its guest rooms, says Shannon Baker, director of sales and marketing for the property. The hotel offers 20,000 square feet of total space with 11,250 square feet of convertible column-free ballroom and exhibit space with sound-deadening walls. The second-floor meeting space includes four smaller meeting rooms and two executive boardrooms, with planned upgrades to the A/V system this year. The hotel restaurant and lounge, the Pecan Grill, features a top-tier culinary department with custom menus available, as well as music by local musicians five days a week.

“We are the premier hotel for downtown,

Texas Tech University and the Medical Center, and, at 15 stories, Overton Hotel and Conference Center is one of the tallest buildings in the city,” says Baker. “The views of downtown and Texas Tech University cannot be beat. West Texas is known for sunsets, and the guest rooms are the perfect spot to catch one.”

Eberley Brooks Events is a family-owned special events facility that offers elegant and airy space for corporate events of all sizes.

Located in West Lubbock, the facility’s central space is the 9,600-square-foot timber frame barn for groups of up to 300. For groups of up to 60, the Great Room & Courtyard is a smaller space with a designer kitchen, stone

P H OTO : E B E R L E Y B R O O K S E V E N T S ; OV E R TO N H OT E L & CO N F E R E N C E C E N T E R ; T H E W E S T TA B L E K I T C H E N A N D B A R

NEARLY 100 YEARS AGO, the citizens of Lubbock rallied for the establishment of Texas Technological College

BY THE NUMBERS

12,000 YEARS (APPROXIMATELY) OF EVIDENCE OF OCCUPATION BY ANCIENT PEOPLES CAN BE FOUND AT THE 335-ACRE ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND NATURAL HISTORY PRESERVE LUBBOCK LAKE LANDMARK. 1936 IS THE YEAR CHARLES HARDIN HOLLEY (A.K.A. BUDDY HOLLY) WAS BORN IN LUBBOCK. 1909 IS THE YEAR LUBBOCK WAS INCORPORATED.

P H OTO : E B E R L E Y B R O O K S E V E N T S ; OV E R TO N H OT E L & CO N F E R E N C E C E N T E R ; T H E W E S T TA B L E K I T C H E N A N D B A R

100 (APPROXIMATELY) PIECES OF ART CAN BE VIEWED ON TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY’S PUBLIC ART WALKING TOURS.

fireplace and timber-lined vaulted ceilings, as well as a courtyard and fire pit. The Pond is a stunning outdoor space featuring a three-quarter acre pond with fountain, extensive landscaping, windmill, fire pit and special décor.

“We love that the barn can hold small gatherings of less than 100 while still feeling intimate and small, but it can also hold parties of 300 or more with ease and success,” says co-owner Misty Brashier. “Our very favorite feature of the barn is the attendants and staff who work the events.

We pride ourselves on great service and attentive, respectful and helpful staff.” Brashier adds that they offer a day-of coordinator for every type of event booked in the barn to assist with set-up and any other details that might come up during the event.

In January, the family launched two new additions to the facility, a chapel and a new Frenchinspired venue with room for 200 guests. This new space offers tall ceilings, arches, brick-and-wood accents and a full-size antique bar. Three sets of patio doors lead out to a large covered porch.

Clockwise from top: Overton Hotel & Conference Center; Eberly Brooks Events; The West Table Kitchen and Bar

Meet & Eat For upscale dining, residents and guests look toward The West Table Kitchen and Bar. The restaurant’s private dining space, The Coffee Shop, is a fully enclosed space that seats up to 40 guests and is adjacent to the restaurant. The menu showcases local ingredients, and the restaurant’s central location is a great way to show guests what Lubbock has to offer, says Mike Nghiem, general manager.

“Lubbock is a rapidly growing city with unique

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DESTINATION LUBBOCK

Clockwise from top: McPherson Cellars; La Diosa Cellars; American Windmill Museum

Meet & Play The American Windmill Museum is the largest public display of windmills and windmill-related artifacts in the world and offers two unique meeting spaces, says Tanya Meadows, director of marketing. The Christine DeVitt Classroom can accommodate 40 people in a classroom-style setting, with A/V equipment provided. The United Commons Patio is a 6,000-square-foot enclosed patio that can be set up as a large classroom facility or a more relaxed banquet type setting, Meadows explains. The room

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can also be used as a smaller classroom with areas for break-out sessions for seminars.

Tables and chairs are provided for up to 200 people, and there is a full-service kitchen for caterers to use.

“I personally love the history behind some of the windmills,” Meadows says. “Our oldest mill was made in 1867, and we have one that the history behind goes back to 1621. There is also a 3,000-foot model train layout that teaches the relationship between the railroad companies and the windmill companies.”

Get Connected AMERICAN WINDMILL MUSEUM windmill.com | 806.747.8734 EBERLEY BROOKS EVENTS eberleybrooks.com | 806.777.0422 LA DIOSA CELLARS ladiosacellars.com | 806.744.3600 MCPHERSON CELLARS mcphersoncellars.com | 806.687.9463 OVERTON HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER overtonhotel.com | 806.776.7000 VISIT LUBBOCK visitlubbock.org | 806.747.5232 THE WEST TABLE KITCHEN AND BAR thewesttable.com | 806.993.9378

P H OTO : M C P H E R S O N C E L L A R S ; L A D I O S A C E L L A R S ; AMERICAN WINDMILL MUSEUM

culture, rich heritage, burgeoning culinary scene, and friendly and hospitable people,” says Nghiem. He adds, “We also own and operate The Brewery LBK, which is located adjacent to The West Table and is one of Lubbock’s only craft microbreweries.”

The McPherson family has been in the grape-growing and winemaking industry for more than 40 years, and winemaker Kim McPherson’s Texas wines have won more than 450 medals in state, national and international wine competitions.

The McPherson Cellars event space is located in an old Coca-Cola bottling plant in downtown Lubbock’s historic Depot District and can accommodate up to 250 guests.

“McPherson Cellars is a wonderful venue for truly any event. We are most complimented on our décor and design the facility upholds, so it looks gorgeous for any occasion without all the effort,” says Kim. His wife, Sylvia McPherson, is the owner and designer of La Diosa Cellars, located just a few steps from the McPherson Cellars, which offers a private dining room for smaller groups and is “a wonderful slice of Spain right here in Lubbock.”

“The most embracing feature of La Diosa is by far the décor and atmosphere,” says Kim. “[Sylvia] truly designed her décor with extreme intent for uniqueness, making La Diosa a one-of-a-kind lovely dining experience. La Diosa, of course, features McPherson Cellars’ wines, keeping the local theme and promoting the Texas wine industry.”

CORPORATE AND CUSTOM EVENTS RANCH STYLE THREE UNIQUE ROOMS GRAND PORCH, LAWN & STAGE GOURMET KITCHEN H LIVESTOCK ARENA

P H OTO : M C P H E R S O N C E L L A R S ; L A D I O S A C E L L A R S ; AMERICAN WINDMILL MUSEUM

FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS H 817-624-1111 RIVERRANCHSTOCKYARDS.COM

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Hilton’s Meet with Purpose programming includes Puppies & Ice Cream and Sole Mates.

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GIVE ME A BREAK EXPERTS SHARE UNIQUE MEETING BREAK IDEAS THAT KEEP ATTENDEES ENGAGED BETWEEN SESSIONS.

BY MELISSA SERSLAND

When Jeanne Sleeper, executive director of the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges (NCBJ), recently hosted an annual meeting of the NCBJ in San Antonio, she wanted to ensure that her attendees stayed at the Henry B. González Convention Center instead of heading back to their hotel rooms during breaks in the schedule. So she put everything

P H O T O S : H I LT O N

guests would need throughout the day close at hand.

Between morning educational sessions, Sleeper offered a wide variety of cold beverages, including flavored waters, frappuccinos and energy drinks. Attendees could also enjoy healthconscious snacks like fruit and string cheese, with options for all attendees regardless of dietary restrictions. In the networking time between breakfast and the first scheduled session, attendees were treated to live mariachi music on an outdoor patio along the Riverwalk at the entrance to the convention center.

To discourage guests from leaving the space to check their emails, Sleeper created an attendee lounge and provided Wi-Fi in case attendees had trouble accessing cell service. She also built in networking opportunities throughout the morning so guests wouldn’t need to leave the space to speak with each other one-on-one.

“We gave them what they needed, so they

didn’t need to go anywhere else,” Sleeper says.

Keeping attendees engaged during meeting breaks doesn’t just keep energy levels high and help participants focus on the agenda.

Offering meeting breaks to fit guests’ needs can also combat one of the biggest obstacles for planners: keeping sessions running on schedule, says Beverly Anderson, director of events at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas.

“Everyone is so connected with checking their email and calling back into the office that it becomes a distraction and prolongs [attendees] from coming back into meetings on time,” Anderson says.

In response, venues and convention centers have come up with creative solutions for meeting breaks, providing convenient dining, entertainment and wellness options to keep attendees from slinking away.

PUPPIES, ICE CREAM & VOLUNTEERING

T

he cutest way to plan an engaging meeting break may be Hilton’s Puppies & Ice Cream Meeting Breakout, which facilitates a visit from animals up for adoption at a local animal shelter. The Puppies & Ice Cream Breakout is one of a suite of unique meeting break options at Hilton Anatole through Hilton’s Meet with Purpose programming, which offers a variety of activities focused on health, wellness and/or waste reduction.

Playing with puppies provides a unique opportunity for attendees to network with one another, says Anderson. The activity also helps reduce stress and elevate the spirits of guests. The Puppies & Ice Cream Meeting Breakout can last from 30 minutes to an hour depending on the size of the group.

Hilton can also facilitate community service activities with local nonprofits. For example, attendees can create bouquets for local charities from gently used flowers through the turnkey Repeat Roses Corporate Social Responsibility Experience. After the bouquets are put to good use by the organizations, they are collected once more for composting.

Planners can also choose Hilton’s “pick a

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pair, give a pair” activity, Sole Mates: Guests pick a pair of socks for themselves while gifting another pair to a local nonprofit. Attendees can even write a note to accompany the socks.

When planning community service activities, Anderson recommends facilitating interaction between attendees and the organization they’re benefiting. For instance, when a planner organized a school supply drive for a local youth organization, Anderson invited the children to perform a musical act during a meeting break.

“When attendees can engage with the organization they’re giving back to, it really resonates with the attendees,” Anderson says.

“The engagement with the attendees is more impactful than anything.”

ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT OFFERINGS

A

venida Houston and the George R. Brown Convention Center were designed to keep conventioneers within the convention campus with convenient dining and entertainment options close to their meetings and events. Avenida Houston is the entertainment district surrounding the convention center. It showcases the diversity of Houston while fitting seamlessly into a packed convention

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schedule, says Todd Holloman, director of convention services for the George R. Brown Convention Center at Avenida Houston.

“Normally, visitors have very limited opportunities to enjoy the city. Avenida Houston showcases the city’s culinary scene and provides light entertainment, which marries together quite well,” Holloman says.

Regular events like Avenida’s lunchtime concert series allow attendees to grab lunch from more than 20 restaurants located within walking distance, enjoy some outdoor entertainment and quickly head back for their next session. Bands perform on the front Plaza and Wharf of the convention center during the week as well as in the evening at The Rustic.

Delegates looking to take a stroll or enjoy the great outdoors can explore Discovery Green, a 12-acre downtown park, which includes art displays along the plaza for guests to admire. Attendees can also enjoy kayaking and motorized boats in Discovery Green’s

basin and take part in hatha yoga or parkour.

All of the programming at Avenida Houston is free. While some programming is organic, events are often tailored for a specific group’s needs and schedule, says Holloman.

“Our programming should complement what’s going on in the convention center as a whole,” he says.

If a group has programmed lunchtime sessions, Avenida Houston may program a happy hour event instead. Holloman and his team also take into account the group’s demographics and interests to select entertainment so the tunes connect with the group as well.

In addition to providing easy access to local cuisine, Houston-inspired food and beverage provided by Levy Catering can work with local destination management experts to create pop-up experiential food shops from local vendors, providing unique experiences and photo opportunities for attendees.

P H O T O S : AV E N I D A H O U S T O N ; H I LT O N

Left to right: Avenida Houston is the entertainment district that includes the George R. Brown Convention Center; the interactive art installation LOOP was a temporary art installation of Avenida Houston; Hilton’s Yoga and Yogurt is a low-impact way to keep meeting groups energized.

INCORPORATING WELLNESS

P H O T O S : AV E N I D A H O U S T O N ; H I LT O N

P

roper nutrition is one of the most overlooked ways to keep attendees focused, says Tiffany Rea, meetings and events director for La Cantera Resort & Spa. When planning a meeting break menu, Rea takes into account each dish’s position on the glycemic index. This ensures attendees do not experience a caffeine high followed by a sugar crash in meetings.

The resort also balances attendees’ need to catch up on work with dedicating time to center their energy on the programming to come. This is done through 15-minute breathing breaks or a 20-minute tai chi class. Both aim to re-center attendees’ energy and focus on the content ahead. “Attendees are still given the time they need to check in and check emails, but they are then brought back to the room and given time to recommit to learning, networking and developing their minds,” Rea says.

Holly Swanzy, CMP, CIS, senior program manager for Irving-based Brightspot Incentives & Events, Inc., also recommends incorporating

healthy food options that are mobile.

“Oftentimes on a break, attendees are transitioning to the next session or enjoying networking with their colleagues, so they love the mobility of being able to walk around with these items instead of having to eat them at a table,” Swanzy says.

Healthy, mobile options include cups made of oatmeal filled with yogurt and strawberries and small cups of fresh cubed fruit with nuts. Swanzy also recommends sliced apple or whole bananas with a cup of peanut butter or salad shooters with spinach, strawberries and feta.

And at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, the Yogurt & Yoga Meeting Breakout combines a yoga class with a yogurt parfait bar. The hotel will also organize low-impact, physical activities that can be done by attendees in yoga pants or a full suit.

This includes a midmorning stretch, during which attendees are paired up for partner yoga stretches.

The warrior pose in a suit and tie? We’d be sure to stick around for that.

GET CONNECTED AVENIDA HOUSTON avenidahouston.com 713.853.8000 BRIGHTSPOT INCENTIVES & EVENTS, INC. brightspotincentivesevents com 972.661.6000 HILTON ANATOLE hiltonanatolehotel.com 214.748.1200 LA CANTERA RESORT & SPA lacanteraresort.com 210.558.6500

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food(ies) for thought

W H AT T R E N D S A R E YO U S E E I N G O N YO U R E V E N T M E N U S ?

P H OTO BY J U L I E W I L H I T E P H OTO G R A P H Y

BY TERESA KENNEY

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W

HEN THE WOODLANDS–BASED GLOBAL HOSPITALITY

company BENCHMARK released its top 10 meeting trends for 2019, coming in at number two was “food for the soul.” Defined by BENCHMARK, this is food that is fresh, flavorful, locally sourced and in-season with a more interactive family-style service.

The company noted: “Food brings people together, whether they know each other already or are just getting acquainted. It’s about engaging and savoring the moment. Since conference guests tend to be curious and concerned with wellness, learning what food they are putting into their bodies is essential, and they come to the table well informed.”

Being the foodies that we are, we wanted to find out what other trends some of our state’s top caterers have been seeing—and wanting to see—in the meetings and events world. Cozy up to the dining table and savor what they had to say. (Spoiler alert: mac ‘n’ cheese still rules.)

s t r e p x e y our culinar Whim Hospitality is based in Dripping Springs. ROB MCMAHON, Whim’s executive chef and leader of the catering team, originally started his cooking career in New Orleans and has worked in several fine dining restaurants. McMahon has also worked as a catering chef and garde manger chef at the Ritz-Carlton.

He has been the executive chef at Whim since 2013.

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Based in Austin, Royal Fig Catering is co-owned by executive chef DAN STACY. Chef Stacy has worked at restaurants and country clubs in the Austin and Houston areas. He also worked in New York City under Harold Dieterle—the winner of season 1, “Top Chef”—at his restaurant, Perilla, in the West Village.

Stacy focuses on local and organic and visits Hill Country farms weekly to source the freshest ingredients for his clients.

Headquartered in The Woodlands, Wicked Whisk Catering is the private events division of the global company Spectrum Catering, Concessions and Events. The company’s venue partners include The Pavilion Event Center and the Woodforest Bank Club at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, and Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land. The company also offers a food truck for events. TRACY VANNOSTRAND is vice president of sales and operations.

MARGERY REINHEARDT, CPCE is the director of catering for the Hilton Houston Post Oak by the Galleria. The hotel offers 30,000 square feet of function space.

Reinheardt and her team can design custom menus for groups, including kosher meals. This year marks Reinheardt’s 38th work anniversary with Hilton Hotels.

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W H AT F U N F O O D T R E N D S A R E YO U S E E I N G AT C O R P O R AT E M E E T I N G S OR SPECI A L E V EN TS?

“

I think the biggest trend I’m seeing for corporate events right now is incorporating

interactive food stations.

These food offerings are becoming more popular for our clients looking to bring an added touch of fun and excitement while promoting the social aspect of many professional mixers and events. I also enjoy this trend because it puts the food front and center. Having a station set up where event ATTENDEES CAN WATCH US PREPARE THE FOOD RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEM while they network makes the dining portion seem more intimate and engaging.”

—ROB MCMAHON

Chef Rob McMahon with Whim Hospitality

TO P P H OTO BY T H E B I R D & T H E B E A R P H OTO G R A P H Y; B OT TO M P H OTO BY S A M H U G H P H OTO G R A P H Y

Whim Hospitality | Build-your-own s’mores station

“Roaming food stations. We are seeing clients wanting food to be INTERACTIVE AND MOBILE .

An example would be roaming oyster shuckers at a cocktail party. Also, there is more desire to know where we source our ingredients. And in general, WHIMSY is a very popular trend when it comes to food.”

—DAN STACY

TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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W H AT F U N F O O D T R E N D S A R E YO U S E E I N G AT C O R P O R AT E M E E T I N G S OR SPECI A L E V EN TS?

“

comfort foods

are big right now. Whether it’s a gourmet mac ‘n’ cheese station, loaded tater tot bar or a build-your-own-cereal station, meetings and events are finding ways to incorporate the tastes we loved as kids into the event world. It’s a great way to step out of the work mind-set and create a fun talking piece while providing the comfort and familiarity of what we all know and love.”

—TRACY VANNOSTRAND

Whim Hospitality | Mac ‘n’ cheese served in mini Mason jars

“LATE-NIGHT SNACKS. More than ever, weddings, social and corporate events are asking for late-night food after an evening of dancing, drinking, or as a way to keep the evening going and people socializing. Hometown favorites—such as Whataburger, Shipley Do-Nuts and Chick-fil-A—combined with our own french fry bars, burritos or tacos and an elegant coffee/espresso bar make for happy guests!

“Practical is another trend or 'LESS IS MORE ,' such as two-course lunch menus with dessert served for later at an enhanced afternoon break. If you need shortened service time for your meal or you want to be sure your guests stay awake through the 'afternoon slump,' this is an efficient way to accomplish both."

—MARGERY REINHEARDT

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T O P P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F W H I M H O S P I TA L I T Y ; B O T T O M P H O T O B Y J U L I E W I L H I T E P H O T O G R A P H Y

Royal Fig Catering | Taco bar

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W H AT F O O D T R E N D S WO U L D YO U L I K E T O S E E G O AWAY ?

Wicked Whisk Catering | Brunch BLT bites with smoked pork belly, fried egg yolk, confit roma tomato, micro wedge iceberg with balsamic on Texas butter toast

“

kale with everything

(guests love it or hate it!).

“Already out of trend, but truffle everything (except fries).

“Mixed grill plates. Serving two smaller entrées on one plate is convenient for a planner who doesn’t want to offer choices, but not all proteins complement each other or make for a great presentation on the plate.”

T O P A N D B O T T O M P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F W I C K E D W H I S K C AT E R I N G ; M I D D L E P H O T O B Y A L G AW L I K

—MARGERY REINHEARDT

Whim Hospitality | Build-your-own-salad bar Wicked Whisk Catering | Corn dogs

“Not that I want any food to go away (we love it all), but WE PREFER SMALLER BITES TO BIG PLATES. That being said, food stations and breaking up the long buffet line is the future, and I am very happy to see that!”

—TRACY VANNOSTRAND

“CHOCOL ATE FOUNTAINS.” —DAN STACY

TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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W H AT F O O D T R E N D S T H AT H AV E G O N E AWAY WO U L D YO U L I K E T O S E E M A K E A C O M E B AC K—A N D H OW WO U L D YO U U P DAT E T H E M ?

are kind of out of style right now, but they present an interactive way to present innovative new flavor profiles. Using MINI HIBACHI-STYLE GRILLS with live fire coals allow guests to build their own assortment of pre-marinated skewers and watch the cooking process in front of them. I’ve seen some pretty out-there flavor combinations that have inspired me in my own cooking, and I’d like to see more events take their catering options to this level of personalization and engagement.”

—ROB MCMAHON

“I WOULD LIKE TO SEE CASSEROLES COME BACK BUT BE DONE IN A MORE REFINED AND LIGHTER WAY.” —DAN STACY

“Nothing goes away forever. For a while, we saw a lot of soup shooters, but now they are DESSERT SHOOTERS. Minor changes and big flavors add creative and appetizing touches to the future of catering.”

—TRACY VANNOSTRAND

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Whim Hospitality | Cavatappi pasta with a five-cheese blend, topped with a parmesan-panko crust served buffet-style

Wicked Whisk Catering | Strawberry shortcake shooters

T O P A N D M I D D L E P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F W H I M H O S P I TA L I T Y ; B O T T O M P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F W I C K E D W H I S K C AT E R I N G

“

plating dishes on food skewers

Whim Hospitality | Lemon, berry and mascarpone trifold

"For meetings, I'd like to see a return to AN UPDATED HOT BREAKFAST SERVICE or continental breakfast. Since meetings generally start with continental breakfasts to save time (which are also carb- and sugarloaded), add in the egg dishes or meat options in easy-to-eat fashion, such as mini breakfast sandwiches, tacos or carb-free bowls. Give your guests extra energy to get through the morning.”

Royal Fig Catering | Open-faced breakfast sandwich

—MARGERY REINHEARDT

Hilton | Sorrel panna cotta with tomato confit

TO P P H OTO BY J U L I E W I L H I T E P H OTO G R A P H Y; B OT TO M P H OTO CO U R T E SY O F H I LT O N A M E R I C A S – H O U S T O N

T O P A N D M I D D L E P H O T O S C O U R T E S Y O F W H I M H O S P I TA L I T Y ; B O T T O M P H O T O C O U R T E S Y O F W I C K E D W H I S K C AT E R I N G

“A return to the CLASSIC ERA OF DINNERS WITH FOUR SMALLER COURSES. Since most programs won’t allow the service time needed for this, the food becomes secondary to the information provided during the meal. Update the presentation of single protein traditional entrées— for example, deconstructed beef Wellington, interesting ceviches in lieu of shrimp cocktails, salad selections with proteins added.

get connected HILTON HOUSTON POST OAK BY THE GALLERIA hilton.com 713.961.9300 ROYAL FIG CATERING royalfig.com 512.814.9743 WHIM HOSPITALITY whimhospitality.com events@whimhospitality.com 512.858.9446 WICKED WHISK CATERING wickedwhiskcatering.com 713.897.8272

TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Wildcat Stadium Abilene

MEET LIKE A CHAMPION

Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau Abilene is where champions are made.

Located in the heart of Texas, Abilene offers the best of the state in one central spot. It offers planners a range of facilities equipped to host sports events of all shapes and sizes. Throw in family-friendly attractions, comfortable and affordable accommodations, and an experienced team ready to help with anything you need, and Abilene has the makings of a first-class sports destination.

New on the horizon is the Dodge Jones Youth Sports Center, a multipurpose,

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55,500-square-foot facility set to open in January 2020. With four regulation-sized basketball courts, eight volleyball courts and ample open space, the sports center will be able to host a range of indoor sports competitions, including cheerleading, gymnastics and martial arts.

The facility will offer elevated seating for spectators, a pro shop, meeting spaces and an elite audio-visual system, creating a perfect venue for sports events of all kinds. The complex is a welcome addition to Abilene’s impressive line up of sports facilities, which include Anthony Field at Abilene Christian University, the Lake Kirby Softball and Baseball Complex,

Nelson Park Complex (next to the Abilene Zoo), Taylor County Expo Center and several golf courses, among others.

Beaumont Convention & Visitors Bureau Beaumont offers Texas hospitality with a Louisiana influence, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Texas.

Quick travel time and a numerous amount of attractions and restaurants around the area make staying and hosting a sporting event in Beaumont both easy and fun.

Whether hosting an indoor or outdoor sport, Beaumont has the space. Beaumont boasts 35 fields citywide including the

P H OTO : A B I L E N E CO N V E N T I O N & V I S I TO R S B U R E AU

Take your group out to the ballgame at one of Texas’ versatile sports venue. These meeting spaces offer state-of-the-art technology, impressive amenities and a fun atmosphere that will knock your next event straight out of the park.

Copyr Copyr Copyr

Children’s Art & Literacy Festival Celebrating illustrator

Peter Brown June 6-8, 2019

Copyright © Peter Brown/ Copyright © Little, Brown & Company/ Copyright © Simon & Schuster

Downtown Abilene

Register at www.abilenevisitors.com

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Beaumont Tennis Center offers a total of 24 tennis courts, with four covered and 20 uncovered.

Beaumont Athletic Complex and Ford Park, establishing Beaumont as a premier destination for both softball and baseball.

The Beaumont Municipal Tennis Center features 24 courts in one location and the Cris Quinn Soccer Complex showcases 30 soccer fields and indoor soccer field. More than 134,000 square feet of indoor space is available throughout the city for gymnastics, dance and martial arts competitions.

The Beaumont Convention and Visitors Bureau provides a step-by-step process to booking sporting events. Working directly with the sports event planners, personalized support from the servicing team and

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everything in between, Beaumont knows how to do sports.

Cleburne Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitors Bureau No matter what sports competition you’re hosting, Cleburne has several unique sporting venues. Cleburne Golf Links is an 18-hole, par 72 golf course—perfect for youth and adult golf competitions. The Cleburne Youth Sports Complex is a massive area with seven baseball fields, two football fields and 20 soccer fields. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Posse Grounds

has a spacious rodeo area to accommodate 4,500 visitors; a bull-riding arena with seating for 4,500; and an indoor roping area for 300 guests. Finally, The Depot at Cleburne Station, home of the Cleburne Railroaders minor baseball team, offers a versatile venue that can accommodate a wide variety of sporting events.

Cleburne features variety of lodging options with over 700 hotel rooms and is conveniently located minutes away from the Dallas-Fort Worth Area. Cleburne has plenty of things to see and do during your visit including live music, live theater, museums and outdoor fun.

P H O T O S : ( T O P ) L A C I E G R A N T, C I T Y O F B E A U M O N T, ( B OT TO M L E F T ) G A RY WY L I E , ( B OT TO M R I G H T ) V I S I T CLEBURNE

Cleburne Golf Links

The Depot at Cleburn Station

HOLD A GATOR. HOLD A MEETING.

Beaumont has a lot to offer. Creative incentives. VIP planning.

Unique venues. And after face-time with colleagues, the opportunity to get up close and personal with the locals.

Meet innovative. Meet extraordinary. MeetBeaumont.com

1-800-392-4401 | Freddie Willard, Director of Sales

ELEVATE YOUR NEXT EVENT WITH THE DALLAS COWBOYS

817.892.8000 SpecialEvents@DallasCowboys.net

972.497.4720 TheStarSpecialEvents@DallasCowboys.net

DallasCowboys.com/SpecialEvents

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AT&T Stadium

Biking in El Paso

You'll find something for every taste in Cleburne with a great selection of dining options from Tex-Mex to burgers and much more. The Cleburne Convention & Visitor Bureau is here to welcome you and connect you with the best venue, hotels, and more for your event.

Dallas Cowboys Football Club AT&T Stadium is the home of true Texassized hospitality. Groups of up to 8,000 can enjoy more than 22 flexible event locations providing the perfect setting for all of your event needs. Attendees can feel like a true Cowboy by meeting in the stands, on the field, in one of 10 clubs or in one of more than 300 luxury suites. An AT&T Stadium luxury suite offers elegant and luxurious surround-

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ings with an unparalleled view of the stadium.

The suites feature granite counter tops, marble floors, a private restroom inside the suite, ample bar space, flatscreen televisions, climate control, Legends Hospitality, Wi-Fi, Silver Club access, Main Club access and special suite parking. AT&T Stadium is committed to providing exceptional experiences for guests in a setting unmatched by any other sports and entertainment venue.

Destination El Paso Destination El Paso can help you deliver unforgettable experiences in a unique West Texas city. Whether you’re interested in the area’s colorful past or its big-picture

future, there’s something for everyone.

El Paso boasts the largest urban state park in the nation. All groups have to do it take a 10-minute ride from the downtown convention center and hit the trails at Franklin Mountains State Park. Or they can spend an evening enjoying Triple-A baseball with the El Paso Chihuahuas at Southwest University Park. Nestled in the heart of downtown El Paso, Southwest University Park offers a unique setting for a variety of events El Paso is especially excited to share the multimillion dollar investment in the revitalization of downtown El Paso to include a new children’s museum, multipurpose performing arts venue, Hispanic cultural center, new and improved parks, public art projects and the first and the

P H OTO S : ( TO P L E F T ) I S TO C K .CO M / B L I G H T Y L A D - I N F O C U S , ( T O P R I G H T & B O T T O M ) D E S T I N AT I O N E L PA S O

El Paso Chihuahuas

The Iron Games Sports Event in Beaumont took advantage of the abundant indoor space at Ford Arena.

only TouchCity Digital History Wall in the United States—all within walking distance of the El Paso Convention Center.

Ford Park Ford Park Entertainment Complex is comprised of Ford Fields, Ford Pavilion, Ford Arena, Ford Exhibit Hall and Ford Midway, making it the premier sports, entertainment and convention destination of Southeast Texas. As the home to 12 championship-caliber youth baseball/ softball fields with covered stands, concessions, restrooms and a 1,000-space parking lot, Ford Fields has your next

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sports event covered.

Ford Park is home to eight meeting rooms ranging in size from 525 square feet to 1,680 square feet, two open-air barns, and 5,000 well-lit parking spaces on-site. There’s also a 45,000-square-foot practice arena at Ford Midway perfect for a team-building game of flag football or a retro game of capture the flag.

Conveniently located in Beaumont on Interstate Highway 10 between Houston and Lake Charles, Ford Park’s versatile event center features five world-class facilities on 221 acres.

P H O T O S : L A C I E G R A N T, B E A U M O N T C O N V E N T I O N & V I S I TO R S B U R E AU

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RESOURCEFUL

Spirit

Discover Odessa All work, no play?

Celebrate your next successful meeting in Odessa, Texas.

You expect a lot from a meeting destination. That’s why Odessa is the perfect destination for your next meeting or conference.

Our great people and amazing climate make Odessa a perfect place to meet any time of year. The Odessa Convention & Visitors Bureau’s professional staff will make sure all the details are handled so there’s time for both work and play.

Odessa features:

The Odessa CVB will help you:

• Forty quality hotels, including the new Marriott Hotel and Conference Center set to open July of 2019

• Secure hotel accommodations

• More than 300,000 square feet of meeting space with all the amenities

• Assist and coordinate group activities

• World-class performances at the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center

• Arrange venue facilities • Coordinate local details such as staffing and UIL sports preparation and submission

• Great restaurants and plenty of entertainment options Call us today to get the ball rolling on your next successful meeting.

432-333-7871 | odessacvb.com | #DestinationOdessa

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Sandhills Rodeo 2019 at Ector County Colliseum

Odessa Convention & Visitors Bureau If you kick it, putt it, pitch it, jump it or ice it, Odessa is the right place to play in Texas. Odessa is where legends are made. From star NFL players to Friday Night Lights, Odessa might be famously known for football, but when it comes to sports, Odessa excels at them all. The CVB welcomes sports planners, teams, and fans to check out Odessa and experience the difference.

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Whether it’s help in planning your next playoff game, national meet or tournament, the Odessa CVB can knock your big event straight out of the park. Let our experienced CVB staff help you create a winning event in our state-of-theart sporting facilities. Here’s what we can do to make your big game unforgettable: The Odessa CVB can assist you with booking sports facilities, assist with registration preparation and submissions and help coordinate media. We offer world-

class sports facilities, top-quality hotels, quality restaurants, and Odessa is home to friendly and enthusiastic fans.

Conveniently located in between the Dallas/Fort Worth area and El Paso on Interstate 20, Odessa is a perfect inthe-middle option for teams to meet.

When flying into Odessa, the Midland International Air and Space Port can accommodate all your flight needs with service on American, Southwest, and United Airlines. Let Odessa's CVB show

P H OTO S : S T E V E N A I C I N E N A , O D E S S A CO N V E N T I O N & V I S I TO R S B U R E AU

University of Texas Permian Basin Swimming Pool

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

you what it can do to help you score big.

Visit Plano Plano is a mecca for youth recreational sports. Plano’s 75 square miles of park fields and sport facilities dominate the north Texas region. With the support of an experienced, award-winning athletics staff, Plano does youth sports right.

Tournaments return year after year to enjoy the safe, affordable park fields, hotels, restaurants, and attractions modern families enjoy.

Plano hosts everything from youth soccer to international cricket with equal aplomb.

Plano is ranked among the top five in The Sporting News “Best Sport Towns” and has been named a “Top Soccer City”

by Livability.com. Plano routinely hosts 250-team soccer tournaments and is headquarters to the 850-team Labor Day Invitational hosted by Plano Youth Soccer Association.

P H OTO : ( TO P ) S T E V E N A I C I N E N A , O D E S S A CO N V E N T I O N & V I S I TO R S B U R E AU , ( B OT TO M ) V I S I T P L A N O

Volleyball at University of Texas Falcon Dome

Russell Creek Park in Plano

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We should meet here every year.

WE HEAR THAT A LOT. Here, power brokers carry clubs.

With over 160,000 square feet of world-class meeting spaces alongside more than 28,000 acres of nationally acclaimed shopping, dining and leisure activities, The Woodlands is the perfect place to mix business and pleasure.

Plan your meeting at visitthewoodlands.com/betterevents

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

P H OTO S : V I S I T P L A N O

USA Softball Tournament

There are 83 public parks, over 4,370 acres of green space, more than 82 miles of paved trails, 168 athletic fields, nine swimming pools, 133 public tennis courts, two public golf courses and five recreation centers. Turf fields can also be used and there are even tournament parks built into existing parks.

When it comes to hosting major sports tournaments and matches, Plano’s got game and plenty of venues to accommodate, whether it be baseball, softball, lacrosse, cricket, hockey, basketball, tennis or golf. Plano provides a major league sports support infrastructure to conduct the best competitions possible, amateur and nontraditional alike.

Wichita Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau Wichita Falls is a winning location for your next sporting event, tournament, clinic or convention. Located between Dallas/

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Youth Soccer

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Rodeo in Wichita Falls

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Fort Worth and Oklahoma City, it is easily accessible for travel and multistate events. With over 2,000 hotel rooms, there are plenty of options for your teams and fans to rest after a long day of competition. Sporting events of all sizes and types can find a home at the Multi-Purpose Events Center. The Kay Yeager Coliseum can seat 6,500 and includes an NBA quality basketball floor, indoor turf for soccer and football, a new state-of-the-art digital video scoreboard, hospitality suites, lockers rooms and concessions. Adjacent to the Coliseum is an indoor Exhibit Hall with 58,000 square feet of floor space and an indoor agricultural center and arena that can seat 1,200.

Wichita Falls also offers eight softball fields with portable mounds for youth baseball. There are a total of 29 tennis courts available. The Champions Golf Course is an upscale, municipal 18-hole golf course that hosts the annual Texas Oklahoma Junior Golf Tournament.

Memorial Stadium can seat 14,500 and

P H O T O S : ( T O P ) D AW N M O N R O E , ( B O T T O M ) W I C H I TA FA L L S CO N V E N T I O N & V I S I TO R S B U R E AU

Lacrosse Tournament in Plano

in Cleburne BigMeet Hospitality

includes new turf, a new scoreboard, video board, and goal posts adjustable for high school, collegiate and professional.

The Wichita Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau can offer volunteers, sponsorship opportunities, housing assistance and much more. You’ll be sure to find your game face in Wichita Falls.

GET CONNECTED ABILENE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 325.676.2556 ABILENEVISITORS.COM/SPORTS

SMALL TOWN

BIG

Branded 1867

re-established daily

HOSPITALITY

Meet in Cleburne www.cleburneconference.com

817-556-8860

BEAUMONT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 800.392.4401 BEAUMONTCVB.COM/SPORTS CLEBURNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 817.645.2455 VISITCLEBURNE.COM

A retreat for your team and your soul?

DALLAS COWBOYS FOOTBALL CLUB 817.892.4000 DALLASCOWBOYS.COM DESTINATION EL PASO 915.534.0600 VISITELPASO.COM FORD PARK 409.951.5400 FORDPARK.COM ODESSA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 432.333.7890 ODESSACVB.COM

We have a

VISIT PLANO 972.941.5849 VISITPLANO.COM WICHITA FALLS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 940.761.6820 WICHITAFALLS.ORG

From the glassy surface of a secluded lake to the canopy of the Nacogdoches forest, you won’t find a better place to restore your spirit and reinvigorate your group. Plan your escape now at VisitNac.com/retreatyourself

888-564-7351 | VisitNac.com TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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Industry Update HOTEL NEWS 64

PEOPLE NEWS 68

SNAPSHOTS 70

PEOPLE PROFILE

72

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT Restaurant and food service operators are integrating sustainability practices into their daily business operations.

T

Research courtesy of National Restaurant Association

he National Restaurant Association examined what measures restaurateurs are taking to conserve resources and operate more sustainably. The association surveyed 500 restaurant owners and operators about their environmental efforts and sustainability opportunities and challenges within their operations. More than 1,000 consumers were also surveyed about the best methods for restaurants to promote sustainability practices to customers.

The results show that restaurants of all types are innovating and making progress. From independent operators to large restaurant chains, the food service industry is reducing its energy and water consumption, minimizing waste creation, and connecting with environmentally aware guests. Read the full study at restaurant.org/newsresearch/research/state-of-restaurant-sustainability.

WHAT WATER-SAVING EQUIPMENT DO RESTAURANTS USE? LOW-FLUSH TOILETS 44% FAUCET AERATORS* 27% HIGH-EFFICIENCY PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVES 26% TANKLESS WATER HEATER 24% MOTION-ACTIVATED TOILETS OR FAUCETS 21% WATERLESS URINALS 11%

Energy & Water Hospitality businesses (including hotels) and food service operations account for nearly 15 percent of commercial/institutional water use in the United States, according to

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the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense program.

In a typical full-service restaurant, food preparation drives more than a third of energy consumption, according to the EPA’s Energy Star Guide for Cafés, Restaurants, and Institutional Kitchens.

*Adding these devices—which cost about $3 each—can reduce hot-water use at a hand sink by 60 percent. The savings: Based on as little as 15 minutes of use per day, installing just one faucet aerator at a hand sink could save 9,000 gallons of hot water per year.

INFOGRAPHIC

79%

Managing Waste

of restaurant operators use CFL or LED lighting

56%

of restaurant operators say they buy at least some packaging or supplies that are certified as compostable

61%

72%

of restaurant operators say they buy at least some packaging or supplies that contain recycled materials

of restaurant operators use programmable HVAC thermostats

PERCENT OF RESTAURANTS THAT RECYCLE:

PERCENT OF RESTAURANT OPERATORS THAT USE ENERGY STAR-RATED APPLIANCES:

46% REFRIGERATORS 41% FREEZERS 41% ICEMAKERS 25% DISHWASHERS 22% FRYERS

65%

CARDBOARD AND PAPER

64%

FATS, OILS AND GREASE

29%

ALUMINUM OR METAL CANS

29%

RIGID PLASTICS

26%

GLASS

14%

of restaurant operators say they compost at least some food waste

PERCENT OF RESTAURANT OPERATORS THAT CITE THE FOLLOWING REASONS FOR NOT COMPOSTING FOOD WASTE:

39% LACK OF COMPOSTING FACILITY 36% INSUFFICIENT SPACE 27% TRANSPORTATION CONSTRAINTS 26% DON’T KNOW HOW TO GET STARTED 25% PEST OR ODOR CONCERNS 23% MANAGEMENT OR BUILDING CONSTRAINTS 15% LOCAL ORDINANCES AND REGULATIONS 31% OTHER/DON’T KNOW

Consumer Insight Environment sustainability ranked as the No. 9 restaurant trend in the National Restaurant Association’s “What’s Hot” annual survey of American Culinary Federation chefs for 2018.

PERCENT OF CONSUMERS WHO CONSIDER THESE IMPORTANT FACTORS WHEN THEY CHOOSE A RESTAURANT: Does the restaurant make efforts to reduce food waste?

Does the restaurant recycle things like plastic, bottles and cans?

Does the restaurant donate leftover foods?

Does the restaurant conserve energy and water?

Does the restaurant use environmentally friendly packaging?

55%

51%

50%

45%

45% TX.MEETINGSMAGS.COM

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REGIONAL NEWS

HOTEL NEWS»

Artful Accommodations

CANVAS Hotel Dallas emphasizes a loft aesthetic.

New Lodging With a soft opening scheduled for this summer, C. Baldwin will debut in downtown Houston at the heart of Allen Center. Named and inspired by Houston visionary, philanthropist and developer Charlotte Baldwin Allen, the 354-room hotel will feature a restaurant, retail and 14,000 square feet of meeting and event space. cbaldwinhotel.com

Relax and Unwind The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown Houston has welcomed The Spa, a 20,000-square-foot spa that features tranquility pools with bodycontouring hot stone daybeds, aromatherapyinfused steam rooms, detoxifying hightemperature and low-humidity saunas, multisensory thermal showers, a state-ofthe-art Technogym fitness center, and quiet

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Post Oak Hotel’s 20,000-square-foot The Spa is the first in the nation to partner with French spa pioneer and expert Cinq Mondes.

lounges with zero gravity chairs to unwind after a busy day.

It is the first spa in Texas and the first AAA Five Diamond hotel in the nation to partner with Cinq Mondes, a French pioneer and expert in spa rituals and treatments

cultivated from Brazil, Japan, Polynesia, Bali, Switzerland, Morocco, India and Thailand.

Each ritual is derived from the region’s techniques, beliefs and practices to deliver a sensorial experience that establishes wellbeing, radiance, relaxation, regeneration,

P H OTO S : CO U R T E SY O F B R O O K F I E L D P R O P E R T I E S ; O P P O S I T E : P H OTO S C O U R T E S Y O F C A N VA S H O T E L D A L L A S ; P O S T O A K H O T E L

CANVAS Hotel Dallas is now taking reservations. Formerly known as NYLO Dallas South Side, the art-centric hotel features a fresh interior design and décor by Dallas-based Studio 11 Design. The centuryold building is also now Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified.

Its 76 suites and guest rooms feature a loftstyle aesthetic with ceiling heights of up to 12 feet, pressed concrete flooring, and exposed brick and industrial elements. Additional room renovations are planned for 2019.

CANVAS’ first-level lobby and restaurant, Chef’s Palette, were designed to showcase a warm, living room feel, and the restaurant’s dining area can convert into flexible meeting space via a sliding glass partition. In addition, the rooftop bar, formerly known as SODA, has been redesigned and renamed The Gallery Rooftop Lounge. The indoor/outdoor lounge offers a sweeping view of the Dallas skyline.

The lounge can also be reserved for special events. canvashoteldallas.com

P H OTO S : CO U R T E SY O F B R O O K F I E L D P R O P E R T I E S ; O P P O S I T E : P H OTO S C O U R T E S Y O F C A N VA S H O T E L D A L L A S ; P O S T O A K H O T E L

The 350-room C. Baldwin debuts this summer in Houston.

beauty and balance for the body and mind.

All therapists endured an intensive eight-week training to learn these ancient traditions and pharmacopeias. thepostoak.com

#NoFilter Open little more than a year, the Fairmont Austin has already been making a big impression. The 37-story reflective glass tower was named one of the six “most Instagrammable hotels in Austin” by Forbes Travel Guide and among the top 100 meeting hotels in the world

by Cvent.

The hotel, which is the largest Fairmont in the U.S. and the second-largest in the world, has 1,048 guest rooms and offers nearly 140,000 square feet of event space in addition to a direct connection to the Austin Convention Center.

Additional amenities include a full-service salon and spa, seasonally heated swimming pool, and five restaurants, including the foodhall-inspired Revue. fairmont.com/austin

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REGIONAL NEWS

Mokara Hotel and Spa recently unveiled its Tejas Boardroom.

A full-day of meals is now available at Two Mules Cantina at Texican Court in Irving.

New Eats Two Mules Cantina, the popular restaurant and bar within Valencia Group’s new Texican Court in Irving, is now open to the public for breakfast, dinner, happy hour and weekend brunch. Executive chef Patrick Hildebrandt’s menu showcases Southwestern-inspired dishes, including El Paso eggs Benedict, chilaquiles, breakfast tortas, smoked barbacoa mini tostadas, cochinita pibil and torta Cubana.

Guests can dine inside or outside and enjoy live music most weekends. A large fireplace, specialty margaritas and Western décor with modern elements all add to the sophisticated and comfortable setting. True to its Southwestern theme of big, bold and zesty flavors, Texican Court also has an on-site specialty tequila bar that serves up craft cocktails in a cozy fire-lit space adjacent to the reflecting pool.

Located across the street from the Irving Convention Center and Toyota Music Factory, Texican Court has 152 retro-inspired rooms, 3,500 square feet of indoor meeting and event space, three distinct courtyards, a circular-style pool, and large, wood-burning fire pits.

The hotel’s design features Spanish mission–style architecture with a subtle layer of Texas, making it a unique blend of Mexican and the Lone Star State cultures. texicancourt.com

The 378-room Omni Houston Hotel has reopened its doors following a $30 million renovation that elevates the guest experience. Designers took inspiration from the local flavor and aesthetic for a new take on “modern Texas.” The lobby features a moss wall behind three copper reception desks, providing guests a warm welcome. The first-floor La Reserve whiskey lounge pays homage to Houston’s history, and COMMONCOLOR—a high-end retail venue—features treasures from What Goes Around Comes Around and showcases vintage handbags and jewelry from Chanel, Hermés, Louis Vuitton and more. In addition, the Lobby Library offers guests an inviting atmosphere in which to relax after a day of meetings. Meeting spaces on the first and second floors were redesigned and include an additional 2,500 square feet of flexible meeting space.

Following its own renovation this past fall, San Antonio’s Mokara Hotel & Spa, another Omni property, announced the opening of the Tejas Boardroom, a new, 222-square-foot space for meetings inspired by the Spanish history of San Antonio. The room features rich, tall-back Spanish-inspired carved leather chairs gathered around a state-of-the-art conference table with power sources and connection to a new large screen television. omnihotels.com

F&B NEWS»

Wolfgang Puck Goes Off-site Wolfgang Puck Catering has expanded into the Houston market for catering off-premise corporate and social events. In addition to off-site gatherings, Wolfgang Puck is the preferred caterer for venues, such as The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, The Corinthian, White Oak Music Hall and Station 3. wolfgangpuck.com/catering

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P H O T O S : C O U R T E S Y O F T E X I C A N C O U R T, M O K A R A H O T E L & S PA

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REGIONAL NEWS

PEOPLE NEWS»

TOURISM NEWS»

Cruisin’ San Antonio visitors can now explore the iconic River Walk and learn all about the city with new tours from GO RIO. Colorful barges take guests along the San Antonio River through downtown while the barge captains provide narrated tours and point out unique San Antonio landmarks. GO RIO shuttles can also be chartered for groups of up to 40 people. goriocruises.com

New Visitor Experience Coming to Dallas VisitDallas and the Woodall Rodgers Park Foundation are partnering to create the new VisitDallas Experience Center. The center will be located on the Klyde Warren Park completion deck between Saint Paul and Akard streets. Scheduled to be complete in 2023, the center will feature state-of-the-art, interactive technology that tells the Dallas story.

The center will also serve as a city concierge where guests can pick up VIP tickets or a jersey of their favorite hometown team and will include meeting and event space. The center is part of the approximate $76 million Klyde Warren Park expansion project, which will add more than 1 acre of land over Woodall Rodgers Freeway. Additional green space and gathering areas will be a part of the park’s expansion. visitdallas.com VENUE NEWS»

Bird’s the Word

The Wetlands Education Center at Cattail Marsh inside Beaumont’s Tyrrell Park celebrated its grand opening this past fall. The center is designed to enhance the birding and outdoor experience of those exploring the region. The education center overlooks the Cattail Marsh Boardwalk and offers views of birds and wildlife from its elevated wrap-around porch and indoor classroom. visitbeaumonttx.com

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Darryl Jett has been appointed general manager of the under-construction HALL Arts Hotel, set to debut in Dallas in fall 2019. Jett recently served as the general manager of the W Dallas Victory Hotel and Residences.

Jennifer Wasserman has been named director of marketing of The HALL Arts Hotel. Wasserman most recently served as opening director of sales and marketing at The Statler Dallas and The Highland Dallas, the inaugural property for Hilton’s Curio Collection.

The Sheraton Dallas Hotel has appointed Zeb Hartline executive chef.

Hartline joins the Sheraton Dallas with more than 15 years in the food and beverage industry, most recently as executive chef over multiple restaurants and director of restaurants at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine.

The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas has appointed Todd Winch general manager. During his 28 years with Marriott International brands, Todd has held several positions, most recently as general manager at the Dallas/ Fort Worth Marriott Solana.

The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas has appointed Zak Kimble as director of sales and marketing. Kimble has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, all of which have been spent with Marriott International brands.

Stephanie Nelson has been named director of food and beverage at Omni Houston Hotel at Westside. Most recently she oversaw the banquet space and nine restaurants of Amelia Island Plantation Resort.

Nachele Groomes has been named director of human resources at Omni Houston Hotel at Westside. Groomes began her hospitality career at the front desk of Omni Austin Hotel – Downtown.

Since then she has had numerous roles within the organization, most recently as director of associate services at Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark.

Hyatt Regency Austin, located on the shores of Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin, has named Jeff Ouradnik as director of sales and marketing.

Ouradnik joins the property from Hyatt Regency Lake Washington in Renton, Washington.

P H OTO S : CO U R T E SY O F G O R I O

Chelsea Monroe is leading the sales team for Wolfgang Puck Catering.

A graduate from the University of Houston, Monroe serves on the board of the Houston chapter for the National Association of Catering and Events as director of programs.

P H OTO S : CO U R T E SY O F G O R I O

SNAPSHOTS ILEA DALLAS CHAPTER HOLIDAY GIVEBACK

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ILEA Dallas Gives Back for the Holidays 4

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The International Live Events Association (ILEA) Dallas Chapter spread some holiday cheer at its annual Holiday Giveback.

The organization chose to work with Senior Source and the Diversicare facility. Members of the group held a party for the facility complete with caroling, live music, holiday crafts and bingo—and of course plenty of cookies and punch.

The group also collected items for Diversicare’s wish list, along with a $5 donation from each member who registered for the networking happy hour that followed the party.

1. Ashley Thompson and Tori Gilbert playing bingo with Diversicare residents.

2. Catherine New, Paige Meija, Michael Duane and Alvaro Ramalho singing carols with Diversicare residents.

3. Diversicare resident playing bingo.

4. Stephanie Jayko, Kim Hussey, Melissa Mancini, Ashlyn Thompson, Catherine New, Eddie Parker, Hal Scott, Tori Gilbert, Margaret Brock, Paige Mejia, Loretta Morgan, Tiffany Holbrook, Jack Crone and Richard McClure. 5. Marshall Leak, Gary Peto and Catherine New. 6. Tori Gilbert and Savannah Brunson.

7. Rebecca Roberts, Randy Davidson, Tiffany Holbrook and Rachael Peto.

8. Working toward bingo! 9. Stephanie Jayko, Raye-Dawn Acheson and Connie Adams. –Photos by Christie’s Photographic Solutions

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT PHOTOS To have your meeting or event photos featured here, contact the editor at teresa.kenney@tigeroak.com.

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Raise the bar for what makes a meeting

Extraordinary.

GaylordTexanMeetings.com | (817-)778-3000

PEOPLE PROFILE ROBERT WATSON

Robert Watson celebrates 30 years with Hilton, but his résumé in hospitality goes way back.

BY TERESA KENNEY

H

ospitality is somewhat of a family business for Tulsa, Oklahoma– native Robert Watson. After all, his career started as a teenager working alongside his father at downtown Tulsa’s renowned Mayo Hotel. “I started out at the coat check station and then moved into a role as a steward [dishwasher]. My father’s roles included banquet manager, catering manager, and food and beverage director,” recalls Watson, who came on board last summer as general manager of Hilton Anatole in Dallas.

Watson recently celebrated his 30th anniversary with the Hilton brand. He came to Hilton Anatole from Hilton Austin, where he led his team to win “Hotel of the Year” for 2018. “I’m thrilled to work toward the same goal for the legendary Hilton Anatole. We will be celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2019, and my goals will revolve around making this milestone year the best in terms of instituting a culture of care, value and respect for our team members while continuing to drive record performance and ensure our guests are having a great experience during their time with us,” says Watson.

Watson says the Dallas property continues to be a high-demand destination for meetings in the U.S., with Cvent ranking the city among the country’s top 10. “The Hilton Anatole was also ranked a top 10 hotel destination and is the only hotel in Dallas that made that list,” he notes.

Dallas’ central location from points around the country, says Watson, is one of the reasons for its popularity as a meeting locale. “Our climate is another big factor, especially for meetings in the first and fourth quarters when weather and natural disasters can cause a lot of risk for meetings being canceled in other parts of the country. And finally, our people: Dallas has become a melting pot destination with over 100,000 people a year migrating here, and they all seem to adopt the Southern hospitality and genuine sense of kindness,” says Watson.

Get Connected HILTON ANATOLE hiltonanatolehotel.com

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I L L U S T R AT I O N : T R A C I Z E L L M A N N

GROWING UP IN THE BUSINESS

I L L U S T R AT I O N : T R A C I Z E L L M A N N

Upbeat “The Ranch at Las Colinas has always been a favorite.

The food is excellent and the bar/live entertainment provides a perfect upbeat atmosphere.”

– Brian B. (Johns Creek, GA)

Whether you're craving authentic eats or libations and beats, you’ll find it cooking in Irving, Texas – a culinary hotspot with a host of dining options to choose from.

A boundless variety of restaurants offering global cuisines sure to satisfy even the most adventurous of palettes. From homemade soup dumplings to spicy empanadas. Here, visitors don’t have to travel far to feel totally transported.

IRVING ROCKS Wining and Dining

visitirvinglascolinas.com • lascolinasconventions.com

(972) 252 7476 • (800) 2 IRVING • #visitirving