2009 Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide

F a c i l i t i e s o n l i n e . c o m : Y o u r i n d u s t r Y p o r t a l F o r n e w s , i n F o r m a t i o n & v e n u e s

&FacilitiesFacilities

DestinationsDestinations

BEDROCK COMMUNICATIONS, INC.152 Madison Ave., Ste. 802, New York, NY 10016 2009 DIRECTORY

F o r a s s o c i a t i o n & c o r p o r a t e m e e t i n g p l a n n e r s

TM

Planner Guide

Award-Winning Venue Transforms Mid-Atlantic DestinationPage 8

Virginia Beach Convention CenterVirginia Beach Convention Center

Award-Winning Venue Transforms Mid-Atlantic DestinationPage 8

Convention Center Lists:5 Hot Green Venues5 Hot F&B DepartmentsPages 4-5

IndustryView: Show of ShowsPages 56-58

FaC

IlITIEs & D

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TIOn

s 2009 Plan

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Gu

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Eventful

charlestonwvciviccenter.comcharlestonwv.com

✪

304.345.1500 ✪

[email protected]

The perfect setting is right here at West

Virginia’s most convenient meeting

and conference

facility. So what

makes Charleston

Civic Center so

ideal for events?

How about our nineteen separate

meeting rooms and 86,000sf of

Class A meeting and exhibition space? Coliseum ✪ Auditorium ✪ Theater

Next, add great service and in-house

catering for 300 to 3,000. Follow with

superb attention

to detail. Finish

with the state’s

best shopping

and attractions

suited to every taste and found only

here in the capital city. Visit us on-line,

then picture your event in Charleston.

CCC145.f&d2010 • 2010 F&D Planner Guide (Scheduled grant insertion #1 of 1) • October 9, 2009 • Concept A, Draft 1Publication: Facilities & Destinations 2010 Planner Guide • Issue: 2010

Publishes: August 31, 2009 • Trim: 8.125” x 10.875” / Live: 7.9” x 10.375” / Placement: ROP / Printing: process colorContact: Michael Caffin / 304.212.532.4150 (office) • Artwork:[email protected] / [email protected]

STATUS: Approved S. King HCF 10.04.2009 14:53 3043453492 001

Charleston Civic Center

©2009 Charleston Civic Center

Client Approval Signature...................................................................................................................................... Date..................................................................

Make your next West Virginia conference truly

FacilitiesFacilitiesDestinationsDestinations

2009 DIRECTORY

For association & Corporate Meeting Planners

TM

Planner Guide&

Awards of Excellence Ballot ................14On The Cover: Virginia Beach – Destination Transformation ....................8F&D Hot Lists........................................4Viewpoint: ‘Cautious Optimism is Still Optimism’ .................................2Destination Perspectives: ‘Appealing to the Medical Markets’ ........7Spotlight Feature: Q&A with Karen Kotowski, Chief Operating Officer of the Convention Industry Council ..........12F&D IndustryView:Photo Gallery ASAE & The Center’s Springtime Expo 2009 ........................562010 – Save the Date/ The year’s Must Attends for Meeting Planners ...........................58FMG Buyer’s Guide: Your Products & Services Directory ...........................59Listing Index A-Z .................................14Ad Index .............................................60

Planner Guide Directory

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

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

*Exclusive Facility/CVB Spotlight

2 Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

2009 Volume 18 No. 2

Editorial Director Timothy Herrick

Associate PublisherMichael Caffin

Creative Direction & DesignScott-Goodman Associates

Circulation ManagerTherese Langer

Account ExecutiveAndrew Reeves

Research ManagerAmber Tavarez

Business OperationsLeo Oh

© Copyright 2009 by Bedrock Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in by-lined articles and advertising copy are not necessarily those of the publisher. Advertisers are responsible for all costs, damages and claims regarding advertising insertions.

Facilities & Destinations is published twice a year by Bedrock Communications, Inc., 152 Madison Avenue, Suite 802, New York, NY 10016. Telephone: (212) 532-4150. Fax: (212) 213-6382.

POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Bedrock Communications, Inc., 152 Madison Avenue, Suite 802, New York, NY 10016. Printed in U.S.A.

Cover ad space is available by contacting a Facilities & Destinations advertising account executive at 212-532-4150 x103.

MEMBERS OF:

VI E W P O I N T

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

Make Your Voice Heard! Don’t Forget to Vote!

c a u t i o u s o p t i m i s m i s s t i l l o p t i m i s m

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

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

Last year was challenging by any measure and it seemed the only solace was that the tough times were being felt industry-wide. Planners had to work with slashed budgets and a wave of meeting cancellations affecting nearly every size meeting venue. By mid-year 2009, the meetings and hospitality industry was dealt another spate of bad publicity under the rubric of the AIG Effect. Confronted with adverse publicity and business conditions, industry members responded wisely and with vigor. Planners and destination representatives worked together, even re-negotiating contracts in some instances, in order to optimize a meeting with limited and usually reduced budgets. Associations representing all segments of the meeting venue and hospitality industry went public—loudly proclaiming the economic value of meetings, conventions and trade shows for individual destinations as well as for all the businesses and professions on whose health our national economy relies.

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

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

Timothy Herrick Editorial Director [email protected]

virginia BeaCh COnvenTiOn CenTerSee pages 8 & 50

3Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

Rhode Island Convention Center

Exhibition Hall and Grand Ballroom

23 meeting rooms and pre-function space

Accommodations for groups of 10 - 5,000

Two parking garages

Dunkin’ Donuts Center - Providence

Assembly seating for up to 13,000

Sky-bridge connected to the RICC

Luxury suite for groups up to 40

Five hospitality and meeting rooms

Veterans Memorial Auditorium Arts & Cultural Center

More than 1,900 seats

On the National Register of Historic Places

Hospitality and meeting space available

Easily accessible

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

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

401.456.0200 [email protected]

A COMPLEX made simple

What Facilities are making a difference?

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

are the quick and easy tip-sheet for Planners

of Meetings, Conventions, Trade Shows and

Other Events seeking cutting-edge venues .

F & DHotLists

1] Hampton Roads Convention CenteR

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

2] oRange County Convention CenteR

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

status: HotCategory: greenFyi: notewortHy sustainabLe Programs by Large-sCaLe meeting Venues

3] exHibition plaCe

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

4] geoRge R. bRown Convention CenteR

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

5] atlantiC City Convention CenteR

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

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1] pueRto RiCo Convention CenteR

prconvention.comThe 580,000-sq.-ft. Puerto Rico Convention Center—the most technologically advanced, large-scale meeting venue in the Caribbean & Latin America—also caters to the taste-buds of attendees with the Ficus Café, an innovative, open-air restaurant serving delicious tapas as well as Baby Back Ribs, Caribbean Hummus, Empanadas; Empanadillas de Churrasco and the island’s specialty— Seared Churrasco Strips with Manchego Cheese. Full bar. Refreshing cocktails. Tropical Ambiance. Live Entertainment & DJ Music. Available for special events.

status: HotCategory: FooD & beVerageFyi: tHe Venues setting new stanDarDs oF ConVention Cuisine

2] CHattanooga Convention CenteR

chattanoogameetings.comThe F&B Department at the Chattanooga Convention Center now offers fresh seasonal produce, breads, meat, cheese, locally roasted coffee and other edible items from local and in-state purveyors. The program includes working farmers who harvest specific items for ultra-customized meeting menus. “We’re committed to providing the best possible experiences to guests,” said Keith Quatrano, Executive Chef. “We want to take it one step further and offer them fresh and local goods.”

3] monteRey ConfeRenCe CenteR

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

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

4] san diego Convention CenteR

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

5] wildwoods Convention CenteR

wildwoodsnj.comThe 260,000-sq.-ft. Wildwoods Convention Center is a New Jersey shore meeting & event venue with a wide range of gourmet

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

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orlando has emerged as the home away from home for health care companies seeking a meeting, tradeshow or conference destination. What is it that draws medical professionals and exhibitors from around the country and around the world to Central Florida? Some attribute it to the area’s warmth and welcoming attitude. Others

claim it’s the award-winning Orange County Convention Center (the second largest in the country), the quality and diversity of accommodations or the convenient location. Still others have recognized the region’s growing medical community. In reality, all these factors play into the popularity of an area that was once known more for attracting families than physicians.

A 2009 study from the Healthcare Convention & Exhibitors Association (State of the Industry Report—Preliminary Highlights and Market Trend Watch) clearly demonstrates Orlando’s position. According to the study’s comprehensive surveys, Orlando is now the top-ranked destination for medical meetings during the past 12 years, with an annual average of 79 meetings—one every five days. In 2008 alone, Orlando held more than 225 medical meetings with 173,000 attendees.

This is not, however, a recent phenomenon. Orlando’s prestige as a meeting destination for the health care industry has been on the rise for over a decade. Over the last 12 years, in fact, Orlando has averaged more medical events per year than any other destination.

The cornerstone of Central Florida’s meeting universe is the Orange County Convention Center. This renowned Center has earned its reputation by providing exceptional service, maintain-ing a thoroughly trained and knowledgeable staff and by always looking for ways to make the Center better. While convention halls have a tendency to feel cold, Orlando’s exudes warmth. With its tropical feel, plethora of natural light and open-air pedestrian bridge with moving sidewalks connecting the two buildings, it’s as if Florida sunshine permeates every space.

The Orange County Convention Center was designed to handle meetings of all sizes and offers plenty of options, with 74 meeting rooms, 235 breakout rooms, the 2,643-seat Chapin Theater and 62,000-square foot multi-purpose Valencia Room. Just as important, the Center features services and amenities to accommodate just about anything an exhibitor or attendee might require, including three full-service restaurants, eight food courts, three business centers, wireless mobility throughout the complex, in-house electric, plumbing, rigging and technical services and on-site parking for 6,227.

Adding to Orlando’s prominence as a prime medical meeting destination is the development of what has been dubbed “Medical

By Yulita osubasales, marketing, event management and exhibitor services senior director, orange county convention center

City,” formally known as the Lake Nona Science and Technology Park. Located on the southeast side of Orlando, minutes from Orlando International Airport, this 600-acre area is home to the new University of Central Florida College of Medicine, the prestigious Burnham Institute for Medical Research, a University of Florida research facility, Orlando VA Medical Center, Nemours Children’s Hospital and Research Campus and the M.D. Anderson Orlando Cancer Research Institute.

The presence of the Burnham Institute for Medical Research, one of only three such locations in the world, has piqued the interest of medical professionals worldwide.

This 175,000-square-foot research facility houses more than 300 scientists and staff focused on studying the causes and treatments of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The opportunity for members of the Burnham Institute team to serve as speakers for meetings in Orlando is a huge benefit to medical meeting planners. These pres-tigious presenters are a huge draw for attendees.

Naturally, another big reason business travelers enjoy visiting Orlando, is for the area’s renowned entertainment, attractions and dining. The Orange County Convention Center makes it especially easy for meeting planners to include some fun in their agendas. This is the only

convention center in the country that has partnered with the world’s most famous theme parks and resorts - Walt Disney World® Resort and Universal Orlando® Resort. With offices located inside the Convention Center, these Gold Key Partners help planners organize unique off-site entertainment both before and after their events.

Accommodations are also an important element in Orlando’s popularity. Surrounding the Orange County Convention Center are more than 8,000 hotel rooms (the area boasts 113,000 rooms total). Directly adjacent to the convention center is the brand new 1,400-room Hilton Orlando, featuring a 450-foot-long covered walkway connecting it to the Center’s South Concourse. Also within walking distance is the acclaimed Peabody Orlando, which is undergoing a major expansion scheduled for completion in 2010 and provides direct access to and from the Convention Center’s West and North/South Concourses.

Add in the convenience factor—the Orange County Convention Center is just 15 minutes from the airport—and it’s clear that when it comes to planning a meeting, Orlando truly has everything you could possibly ask for.

Yulita Osuba is the Sales, Marketing, Event Management and Exhibitor Services Senior Director at the Orange County Convention Center, where she has worked since 2001. She is responsible for market-ing, sales, advertising, exhibitor services, event management and the day-to-day operations for the Sales, Marketing, Event Management and Exhibitor Services Division. Osbua is a Certified Meeting Professional, Certified Hospitality Sales Executive and serves on the board of the Association of Convention Marketing Executives.

“orlando is now the top-ranked destination for medical meetings during the past 12 years, with an annual average of 79 meetings— one every five days.” – Yulita osuba

destination perspectives

Appealing to the Medical Markets


P ristine beaches, vibrant boardwalk, dynam-ic dining and entertainment districts have earned Virginia Beach an international reputation as a seaside resort. Located far enough North that populations of major cities—D.C., Philadelphia, and New

York—find it accessible, yet far enough South to offer the region’s famed hospitality, historical attractions, cuisine and culture, Virginia Beach has attracted droves of tourists throughout the 20th Century.

A significant portion of those droves were attendees of small-to-mid-sized meetings. In the first decade of the 21st century, Virginia Beach decided to expand this business to include con-ventions, trade shows and exhibitions. By 2007, the final phase of the $202.5-million Virginia Beach Convention Center was opened and the “Bring it to the Beach” tagline came in full force. “We have the location, we have the facilities,” said Al Hutchinson, Vice President Convention Sales & Marketing. “Bring it to the Beach has become a motto for our team as much as it is anything else.”

Award-Winning DebutThe marketing tagline and destination staff credo was adopted in 2005 when the first phase of the convention center opened. Few venues received the kind of industry-wide attention as the Virginia Beach facility did after its Ribbon was cut. The design of the Chicago chapter of the American Institute of

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

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

“This facility has put Virginia Beach on the map as a premier meetings destination, while drawing recognition from both the national and international business community,” said James B. Ricketts, Director of the Virginia Beach CVB.

In the two years since the grand opening of the final phase, evidence accumulates that the state-of-the-art, award-winning facility has successfully spearheaded the transformation of the city into a year-round, meetings and events destination. In the

By Timothy HerrickEditorial Director

COVERSPOTLIGHTCOVERSPOTLIGHT


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

inaugural fiscal year of the venue, before the reces-sion gained momentum, 59,000+ room nights were booked by the CVB sales team for the new Convention Center, estimated to be more than $23 million. The diverse range of events include: Hampton Roads Auto Dealers Association International Auto Show; North American Association for Environmental Education; Virginia Family Career and Community Leaders of America Recognition Conference; Redskins Beach Blitz; Virginia Association of Mortgage Brokers and American Cheer & Dance Express.

Meetings for All SeasonsIn 2008, for the first time in its history, visitors to Virginia Beach from October to May outnum-bered the summer time beachgoers. This up-tick is entirely due to aggressive, targeted marketing by the destination team. “We have been very aggressive, building upon strong relationships,” said Hutchinson. He added that military and govern-ment meetings (both, as well as related industries, have a huge presence in Virginia) and multi-cultural organizations are on the rise. The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials has committed to Virginia Beach for the 2010 and 2013 national meetings and overall, according to Hutchinson’s ‘Bring It to the Beach’ online blog, multicultural conventions are projected to provide more than $13 million in near-future business for the destination. “Like other sectors, the word is getting out about what we offer,” said Hutchinson. “But, it helps a great deal when these organizations look at a destination, and see throughout the city-government and the hospitality industry, a diversity of ethnic groups at the leadership levels.”

There is now a dedicated marketing/sales person to the multi-cultural market. In another targeted-effort, the Groovy & Green program was the latest manifestation of Bring it to the Beach. This 60s/70s themed event took two dozen meet-ing planners on bio-diesel bus from Washington D.C. to the Virginia Beach Convention Center for a two-day event featur-ing accredited seminars on green issues and destination tours. “We were the first convention center and destination to be certified “Green” in the state,” said Hutchinson. “In the cur-rent market, meeting planners demand that commitment.”

Expanding AppealThe city’s Town Center, a “downtown” neighborhood, features a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues— especially the spectacular, 1,300-seat Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. This district will soon be augmented by the 19th Street Corridor, adjacent to the Convention Center, a project that includes restaurants, clubs, lounges and a multi-use, entertainment facility with a 2,500-seat theater encompassing two city blocks. In addition, a 400-room, Brand Name Convention Hotel is currently planned. Specifics of both projects were not available at press-time (check Hot News @ facilitiesonline.com for updates),

although completion is expected by 2013.

“I’ve noticed signs that the economy is recovering, but it has some ways to go,” admitted Hutchinson. “That has delayed announcing of the projects. The final stages of the bidding process-es has taken longer then expected, but I’m confident that when they are started, they will finish on schedule.”

At least the first stage of the Bring It to The Beach marketing message has been successful. “We’re taken seriously by meeting planners throughout the country and even inter-nationally,” said Hutchinson. “We have a world-class Convention Center, but we’re flexible enough to accommodate any category, or size of meeting or

event. We have a great story to tell.”Does being a conveniently located, easily accessible, 2nd-tier

city have advantages in the current economic climate? “The economy is the biggest challenge. It affects all market tiers,” said Hutchinson. “The advantage for cities like Virginia Beach, that as meeting budgets are reduced, we become more appealing because we have the facilities of many first-tier cities now, but at much more affordable price points. The other side of that coin is that first-tier cities are lowering their prices, so they are marketing to organizations that historically have only considered second-tier cities.”

Hutchinson added, “we’re both playing in each other’s sand-boxes, which makes interesting times. But it always comes down to the caliber of your facilities, what your destinations offer, the quality of your staff and the relationships you’ve built.”

“W e have the location, we have the facilities.

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

Cambria County War Memorial (Johnstown, Pennsyvania)†

Charlotte Harbor Events Center (Punta Gorda, Florida)Leeds Arena (Leeds, United Kingdom)Mazatlán International Center (Mazatlán, Mexico)Meadow Event Park at the State Fair of Virginia (Doswell, Virginia)†

Movistar Arena (Santiago, Chile)Odysseum Cologne (Cologne, GeOdysseum Cologne (Cologne, Germany)†

Richmond CenterStage (Richmond, Virginia)ShowWare Center at Kent (Kent, Washington)†

Shreveport Municipal Auditorium (Shreveport, Louisiana)Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza (Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania)*Whitley Bay Playhouse (Whitley Bay, United Kingdom)†

SMG & SAVOR’s 2009 New Accounts

Welcome

1st Mariner Arena (Baltimore, Maryland)

American Bank Center Arena (Corpus Christi, Texas)

BankAtlantic Center (Sunrise, Florida)

Big Sandy Superstore Arena (Huntington, West Virginia)†

Bridgewater Concert Hall (Manchester, United Kingdom)†

Broward County Convention Center (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)

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

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

Eastern Kentucky Expo Center (Pikeville, Kentucky)†

Five Flags Center Arena (Dubuque, Iowa)

Florence Civic Center (Florence, South Carolina)†

George M. Sullivan Sports Arena (Anchorage, Alaska)†

Greater Columbus Convention Center (Columbus, Ohio)

Hampton Roads Convention Center (Hampton, Hampton Roads Convention Center (Hampton, Virginia)

Heritage Park Amphitheater (Simpsonville, South Carolina)

Landmark Theater (Richmond, Virginia)†

Millennium Youth Entertainment Complex (Austin, Texas)

Moscone Center (San Francisco, California)†

North Charleston Coliseum (North Charleston, South Carolina)

Pershing Auditorium (Lincoln, Nebraska)†

Saenger TheatSaenger Theatre (Pensacola, Florida)†

Salt Palace Convention Center (Salt Lake City, Utah)

Dow Event Center (Saginaw, Michigan)†

Times Union Center (Albany, New York)

Wachovia Arena at Casey Plaza (Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania)

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

Wolstein Center (Cleveland, Ohio)

SMG & SAVOR’s 2009 Renewed Accounts

BackWelcome

2009 brought back old friends and introduced new. The SMG family continues to strengthen. To both our new and renewed members we say…

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

† SMG & SAVOR Acounts* SAVOR Accounts


K aren Kotowski became Chief Operating Officer of the Convention Industry Council (CIC) in December 2008, just in time to be at the helm during a historically severe economic

downturn. The current economic troubles impacted the convention and meeting industry in a variety of ways, including budget cut backs, renegotiated contracts, reduced bookings and the political and public scrutiny of the value of meetings.

Not exactly a stress-free environment to begin a new position, especially since the business turmoil meant that CIC services were more in demand by the industry it represents. A federation of 34 organizations in the meetings, exhibition and travel segments of the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry, CIC members include more than 103,500 individuals and 19,500 firms and properties. Founded in 1949, the CIC’s main mission is to facilitate the exchange of information within the meetings, conventions, especially in such signature programs as the CMP Designation and the Accepted Practices Exchange (APEX ). Kotowski has led an initiative for incorporating Green Standards into APEX.

Prior to joining CIC, Kotowski was Vice President, Member Education with the National Association of Home Builders, a position that focused on providing education and services for the organization. During this candid and topical interview, she drew a comparison with that industry, which enjoyed years of expansive growth until the housing bubble burst, to the current state of the Convention Industry – “History has taught us that all industries are cyclical.”

Although the interview touched on several programs of the CIC, the economy understandably dominated this spotlight. Where exactly our industry is in the business cycle may still be uncertain, and Kotowski correctly reminds us that it is not just our industry suffering through doldrums. What comes across though is how strongly this veteran meeting planner believes in the profession—“planners also showed their value to their companies because what we do has such an impact on the bottom line.”

“The value proposition of attending a meeting or

convention must be clearly articulated to exhibitors

and attendees.”Karen Kotowski, Chief Operating Officer ofthe Convention Industry Council, discusses

the economy and other issues with Facilities & Destinations

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS: How bad a year has 2009/08 been for the meetings & conventions industry?

KAREN KOTOWSKI: I think it has definitely been a challenging year, there is no way around that. But the challenge is not one our industry faces, it involves the entire U.S. economy. In that regard I think that as the economy improves, companies and associations will start holding meetings and people will start attending again. We’re a lagging indicator.

F&D: What indicator causes you the most concern?

KK: I saw a report that the recession is ending but unemployment is still very high and still increasing. Again, that’s another lagging indicator. It is going to take a while for those jobs to come back.

F&D: What indicator would you consider a potential silver lining?

KK: The Fed’s snapshot of economic conditions showing the economic activity is stabilizing and predicting growth in the 3-4 percent range in the current quarter.

F&D: Is the economic impact on the conventions industry across the board or more association/profession/industry specific?

KK: Generally it seems to be across the board, although I think there are pockets in specific industries. I don’t think medical meetings have been as hard hit. Those professions which require continuing education for certification and licensing will probably fare better than those that don’t. F&D: Do you think the industry has reached bottom?

KK: This is my personal opinion. I think it has by virtue of the improving economy and the meetings-bashing rhetoric that we saw earlier this year has stopped. Our industry did a good job, lead by USTA and other CIC members,

“P lanners have been retooling their meetings,

scaling back or cutting out certain events because of budget cuts.”

Spotlight FeatureSpotlight Feature


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

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

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

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

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

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

KK: I’ve heard from suppliers that planners are not booking as far out. Planners have been retooling their meetings, scal-ing back or cutting out certain events because of budget cuts. F&D: What technology is affecting conventions the most?

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

“I think that as the economy

improves, companies and associations will start holding meetings and people will start attending again.”

Continued on page 54

New

255 COURTLAND STREET, NE • ATLANTA, GA 30303 • 404-659-2000 • www.atlanta.hilton.com

• In the heart of downtown Atlanta—

the “business hub” of the southeast

• 1,242 newly renovated guest rooms

• Over 119,000 sq. ft. of meeting space

• Pedestrian skybridge leading to

shopping and attractions

• Innovative cuisine and

unique dining outlets


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

Kansas Expocentre ........................................................ 37

Meadowlands Exposition Center ................................... 39

Memphis Cook Convention Center ............................... 39

Miami Beach Convention Center .................................. 43

Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB/

Harrison County Tourism Commission ......................... 43

Monona Terrace Convention Center .............................. 52

Norfolk CVB ................................................................ 52

Oklahoma City CVB ..................................................... 52

Orange County Convention Center ............................... 52

Providence Warwick CVB/

Rhode Island Convention Center .................................. 53

Puerto Rico Convention Center .................................... 53

Rochester Riverside Convention Center ........................ 53

Scanticon Hotel & Conference Center ........................... 54

Sheraton Puerto Rico .................................................... 54

Vancouver Convention

& Exhibition Centre ..................................................... 54

Virginia Beach CVB ...................................................... 55

Wilmington Convention Center .................................... 55Th

e N

orth

east Connecticut

Massachusetts Maine New Hampshire New JerseyNew YorkPennsylvania Rhode Island Vermont

Facilities&DestinationsVOTE for the top ConventionCenters, Exposition Centers,Destinations, CVBs, or Meeting Hotels &Resorts your organization has used forits conventions, tradeshows, meetingsor comparable events in the last threeyears.PLEASE CONSIDER THE FOLLOWINGCRITERIA WHEN VOTING:� ATTRACTIVENESS & FUNCTIONALITY OF

MEETING VENUE

� SIZE & QUALITY OF MEETING SPACE

� TECHNOLOGICAL CAPABILITIES

� QUALITY OF STAFF

� FOOD & BEVERAGE OPTIONS

� LIGHTING, ACOUSTICS, & INTERNET

ACCESS

� MEETING/EVENT SUPPORT SERVICES

� AMENITIES

� RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

� DINING & ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS

� LODGING QUALITY

� ACCESSIBILITY TO AIRPORT

� EASE OF TRAVEL WITHIN DESTINATION

Name of Nominee_______________________________________________

Check Award You want to nominate the above for:

___ Prime Site (Convention Centers,Exposition Centers & Other Large Meeting Venues)

___ Top Destination (CVBs or Similar Agency representing a city or destination)

___ H.O.T.E.L. (Meeting Hotel & Resort)

Name, Title:_____________________________________________________

Organization: ___________________________________________________

Phone:__________________________________________________________

Email: __________________________________________________________

Describe the Meeting or Event

________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________

May we contact you? Yes____ No____

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

Please Fill Out Form & Mail Your Vote To:Facilities & Destinations

6 East 46th Street, Suite #301, New York, NY 10017or Fax it to: (212) 213-6382

�&

AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

50 Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide

KANSAS CITYCONVENTION &ENTERTAINMENTFACILITIES 301 West 13th Street, Suite 100Kansas City, MO 64105(816) 513-5015; Fax: (816) 513-5001www.kcconvention.com Executive Director of the Kansas CityConvention Center: Oscar McGaskeySales & Marketing Manager:Janet O’Hagen

City of Fountains… Heart of theNation…Kansas City, Missouri Snapshot: No matter how your atten-dees define fun, they’ll find it in KansasCity. From elegant shopping and finedining to thrilling theme parks and his-toric jazz clubs, the City of Fountainsoffers a great mix of exciting attractionswithin minutes of the Convention &Entertainment District. The eight-square-block convention and entertain-ment facilities can accommodate everyneed with 388,800 sq. ft. of column-free contiguous exhibit space, 62,000 s.

ft. of meeting room space, a 2,400-seatrenovated Music Hall, a 10,700-seatrenovated arena and over 100,000 sq. ft.of unique outdoor festival and reception space.Meeting Space: 62,000 sq. ft. of meet-ing space, including 48 breakout rooms.Ballroom: New, state-of-the-art40,500-sq.-ft. ballroom can be expand-ed to 46,484 sq. ft.; divisible into 3 separate rooms; controllable digital day-lighting system.Exhibit Hall: 388,800 sq. ft.Hotel Rooms: 1,500 guest rooms within walking distance of conventioncenter.Transportation: 20 minutes from theKansas City International Airport.Nearby Attractions: Sprint Center,College Basketball Experience, NegroLeagues Baseball Museum, KansasCity Jazz Museum, Power and LightDistrict, City Market, Kemper Arena,Arrowhead Stadium, KauffmanStadium, Nelson Art Gallery, CountryClub Plaza, Nelson-Atkins Museum,Kansas Speedway, Argosy Casino,Harrah’sCasino,AmeristarCasino.See Ad on Page 60

MISSOURI

BATON ROUGE AREACONVENTION ANDVISITORS BUREAU702 North BoulevardBaton Rouge, LA 70802(225) 383-1825; (800) LA-ROUGEFax: (225) 382-1253Executive Vice President Sales andMarketing: Renee Arengwww.visitbatonrouge.com

“Authentic Louisiana at EveryTurn”Snapshot: Located right on the legendary Mississippi River, the BatonRouge River Center provides excellentworld-class meeting space. The entirecomplex features more than 200,000square feet of new and renovated space,including a new 70,000-square-footexhibition hall.Meeting Space: 8 meeting rooms;125,000-sq.-ft. ballroom arena;100,000-sq.-ft. of total Exhibit Space,including a 70,000-sq.-ft. Main

Exhibition Hall, with a capacity for 33510x10 booths; 1,897-seat Theater.Venue Features: State-of-the-art gridsystem with conduits for all services,including electric, Internet, phone, andwater; on-site, full service cateringavailable; CVB provides complete con-vention services.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:9,000 in the Baton Rouge Area; 4,500committable for citywide events.Transportation: The Baton RougeMetropolitan Airport is within 10 minutes of downtown and the River Center.Attractions: Few cities offer the diversity of culture and entertainmentfound in Louisiana’s state capital;Alligator Bayou Swamp Tours;Nottoway; Houma’s House; ShawCenter for the Arts; The Bluffs onThompson Creek, designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer.See Ad on

LOUISIANA

NEW ORLEANS MORIAL CONVENTION CENTER 900 Convention Center BoulevardNew Orleans, LA 70130(504) 582-3023; Fax: (504) 582-3032Vice-President of Sales & Marketing: Tim HempillDirector of Sales: Keith Levywww.mccno.comwww.mccsitetour.com

“Same great meeting place, nowwith a new look”Snapshot: Recently renovated with a$60-million makeover, the MorialCenter has a brand new look completewith quality flooring and furnishingsthroughout. Just like any othermakeover, only our appearance haschanged—we’ve still got 1.1 millionsquare feet of exhibit space and 140meeting rooms, located in the heart ofone of the most colorful cities inAmerica.Meeting Space: 232, 827 sq. ft of

meeting space; 140 meeting rooms;36,448-sq.-ft.-ballroom; 1.1 million sq. ft of flexible exhibit space, 4,000-seat Conference Auditorium.Venue Features: High speed internet,Wi-fi in public areas, videoconferenc-ing, satellite uplinks and downlinks,video streaming, webcasting, state-of-the-art audio/visual capabilities; on-sitetechnological support. Two luxuriousballrooms, spanning 32,000 and 36,000square feet respectively.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:20,000 hotel rooms.Transportation: Approximately 14miles from the airport.Attractions: Within walking distanceof world-renowned fine dining, attrac-tions, entertainment; French Quarter,Riverwalk, Garden District,Aquarium of the Americas, Children’sMuseum, World War II Museum;Audubon Zoo.

LOUISIANA

BOSTON CONVENTION& EXHIBITION CENTER415 Summer StreetBoston, MA 02210(617) 954-2000; Fax: (617) 954-2299www.massconvention.comExecutive Director: James E. Rooney

“Stunning Architecture. SuperiorService. Unsurpassed Technology.”Snapshot: Designed with input fromassociation and corporate meeting planners as well as trade show producers worldwide, the BostonConvention & Exhibition Center(BCEC) delivers more customer-focused features, greater flexibility, andmore state-of-the-art services than anyother convention center. Flexible, easilyconfigured spaces make the BCEC theperfect choice for both large and small-scale events.Meeting Space: More than 300,000 sq.ft. of meeting space; 84 meeting rooms;40,020-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 516,000 sq. ft.of Exhibition Space, including

184,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall.Venue Features: Free WirelessInternet, Internet II Abilene NetworkCapability, and Informational PlasmaScreens located throughout the build-ing; Transportation & VisitorInformation Desk, Close proximity topublic transportation.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:35,000.Transportation: two miles from LoganInternational Airport.Nearby Attractions: Faneuil HallMarketplace, Boston Harbor,Downtown Boston, Fenway Park,Boston Symphony Orchestra,Museum of Fine Arts,Black Heritage Trail, The FreedomTrial, Museum of Science.See ad on page 19

MASSACHUSETTS

Please Fill out Form & Mail Your Vote To:Facilities & Destinations

152 Madison avenue, suite 802, new York, nY 10016or Fax it to: (212) 213-6382

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cox Convention Center................................................. 18

Daytona Beach Area CVB ............................................. 27

Direct Energy Centre .................................................... 27

Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward

County Convention Center ........................................... 28

The Georgia Center, The University

of Georgia’s Conference Center & Hotel ........................ 28

George R. Brown Convention Center ............................ 28

Hampton Roads Convention Center .............................. 30

Hard Rock Hollywood/Seminole ................................... 30

Hilton Atlanta .............................................................. 30

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax ............................................. 30

Irving Convention Center ............................................. 36

Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau .......................... 36

Jackson Convention Center ........................................... 36

Facilities & Destinations listing Index a-to-Z


AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER500 East Cesar Chavez StreetAustin, TX 78759(512) 404-4000; Fax: (512) 404-4416www.austinconventioncenter.comDirector of Austin Convention Center Department: Mark TesterDirector of Sales: Lisa Kidder

Snapshot: Rated one of the country’s most technologically advanced conven-tion centers, the Austin Convention Center has a convenient downtown location near the city’s famous enter-tainment districts. The facility spans six city blocks with five column-free exhibit halls, seven ballrooms and 54 meeting rooms. Meeting Space: 374,255 sq. ft, includ-ing 54 meeting rooms and a 43,300-sq.-ft. Ballroom.Exhibit Space: 5 contiguous Exhibit Halls with 246,097 sq. ft. of total

Exhibit Space: Theater Seating: 20,333 in Exhibit Halls; 2,291 in South Ballroom; 3,940 in North Ballroom.Technology: Gigabit-rated building (voice, video and data move at over 1 billion bits per second); complimenta-ry WiFi, running on a CISCO pow-ered gigabit Ethernet infrastructure; redundant high-speed, 100 mg/sec. Internet II access; plug and play capa-bilities; on-site technical staff.Venue Features: Flexible and practi-cal floor plan; 18 loading docks; 2 parking garages; pre-function spaces offer views of downtown Austin.Hotel Rooms: 5,500 downtown hotel rooms.Transportation: 8 miles to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.Attractions: State Capitol; Sixth Street Entertainment District; Warehouse Entertainment District; University of Texas; LBJ Presidential Library; Texas State History Museum; dozens of museums and art galleries; Lady Bird Lake with ten miles of trails.See Ad on

TExas

BRANSON CONVENTION CENTER200 Sycamore StreetBranson, MO 65616(417) 336-5401; Fax: (417) 243-2387www.bransonconvention.comAssistant General Manager: William R. Tirone

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

connected to Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.Destination: Known as the Music Capital of the Midwest, Branson has more theatre seats than Broadway, multiple Amusement Parks, Museums and Attractions & 11 championship golf courses. Meeting Space: 220,000 sq. ft. of overall space, including 70,000 sq. ft. of Exhibit Space; 10 meeting rooms; 23,000-sq-ft. ballroom; 47,000-sq-ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 4,500-seat Theater.Transportation: Springfield Branson National Airport is 45 minutes away and the new Branson Airport is only 15 minutes away. Attractions: Branson Landing, Silver Dollar City Amusement Park and the Branson Strip with over 100 live shows daily. See ad on page 19

Managed by Hilton Hotels Corporation

MIssOuRI

CHARLESTON CIVIC CENTER200 Civic Center Drive, Charleston, WV 25301(304) 345-1500; Fax: (304) 345-3492www.charlestonwvciviccenter.comGeneral Manager: John Robertson

“Center of Excitement”Snapshot: The Charleston Civic Center is the convention and entertainment centerpiece of Charleston, hosting the majority of the state’s premier conventions, trade shows, entertainment, sporting and corporate events. As one of the most flex-ible facilities in the Mid-Atlantic region, the Charleston Civic Center is comprised of four versatile venues—The Charleston Convention Center, The Civic Center Coliseum, The Municipal Auditorium, and The Civic Center Little Theater. Meeting space: 86,000 sq. ft. of Class A event space; 18 break out rooms; The Grand Convention Hall offers over 50,000 square feet of Class A meeting/exhibition space, enough to accommodate up to 256

standard booths and can be divided into four areas; The Municipal Auditorium 3,483 seats; The Little Theater 738 seats; Civic Center Coliseum offers over 30,000 sq. ft of event/exhibition space with seating for up to 13,600 and accommodates 160 10’x10’ booths. Venue Features: Distinctive Gourmet serves as exclusive, on-site caterer.Parking: On-site parking for 2,000 vehicles; additional parking to more than 4,000 vehicles within a three-block area.Transportation: Yeager Airport is a five-minute drive to the facility.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Over 4,000 hotel rooms (1,750 within one mile of the Civic Center).Attractions: Charleston Town Center, located across the street from the complex, is one of the largest urban shopping centers in the country; The WV Capitol Complex; the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences; the Avampato Discovery Museum; The Capitol Market with a variety of specialty shops, Tri-State Racetrack and Gaming Center as well as the new West Virginia Power Baseball Park.See Ad on Cover 2

wEsT vIRGInIa

CHARLOTTE HARBOR EVENT AND CONFERENCE CENTER75 Taylor StreetPunta Gorda, FL 33950(941) 833-5445; Fax: (941) 833-5451www.charlotteharbormeetings.comGeneral Manager: Jim Finch

Bring Your Meeting HomeSnapshot: This 44,000-sq.-ft facility features a modern and open floor space design that lends itself to endless event layouts. The Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center can accommodate gatherings from large private parties to lav-ish receptions, business meetings, seminars, expos and special events of all sizes. A waterfront location that features panoramic views of the Peace River and Charlotte Harbor.Meeting Space: 44,000 sq. ft., including 6 meeting rooms; 19,800-sq.-ft Ballroom; 20,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 18,000-

sq.-ft. Great Lawn Area (2,000 standing room capacity).Technology: High-speed wireless con-nectivity throughout facility; Pre-func-tion space includes data connections on each wall. Lodging: 477 rooms within walking distance.Attractions: Art galleries, festivals and exhibits; a professional symphony orches-tra and theatrical productions offer artis-tic and cultural experiences year-round; Museum of African-American History & Culture; Ranked by Golf Digest as the 3rd Best Place in America to Live and Play Golf.Transportation: short drive from five airports including Tampa; St. Petersburg/Clearwater; Sarasota-Bradenton; Fort Myers; Charlotte County Airport. Destination Features: Situated along beautiful Charlotte Harbor, archi-tecturally rich Punta Gorda is a “True Florida” boating town with spectacular royal palms lining cob-bled streets, restored period homes, vintage streetlights, boutiques, art galleries, trendy restaurants, side-walk bistros and spas.

FlORIDa


t e x a s

500 East Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, TX 78701

(512) 404-4000 • Fax: (512) 404-4416 • www.austinconventioncenter.com

f a s t f a c t sLocation: Downtown AustinTotal Area: spans six city blocksExhibit Space: 246,097 contiguous sq. ft., column free Ballrooms: 43,300 sq. ft. level 4; 23,418 sq. ft. level 1Meeting Space: 54 meeting rooms totaling 61,440 square feetTechnology: Gigabit-rated facility, wireless Internet access,plug and play capabilities

A winner of the Prime Site Award every year since 1995, the Austin Convention Center has emerged as a leader in the convention and meeting market. A premier facility located in

the heart of the capital city’s downtown business district, the Center spans six city blocks with 374,255 square feet of exhibit and meeting space. The five column-free exhibit halls, totaling 246,097 square feet, accommodate 1,289 10’ X 10’ exhibit booths. Seven ballrooms ranging from 3,896 to 43,300 square feet in size, and 54 meeting rooms and show offices totaling 61,440 square feet, complete the four-story convention center. Ample parking is provided in two parking garages with a total capacity of 1,700 spaces.

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

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

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

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

a u s t i n c o n v e n t i o n c e n t e r

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

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

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

When you book your next meeting at the Austin Convention Center, we also

throw in 300+ days of sunshine. Lady Bird Lake and the Hike & Bike Trail are just

steps from our door, with the Highland Lakes and elite golf courses only a short

drive away. Here in Austin, after the wrap-up, it’s time to wind down.

F O R B R E A K - O U T S E S S I O N S.F O R B R E A K - O U T S E S S I O N S.

246,000 sq.ft. of

column-free space

Downtown location,

convenient to airport

Gigabit rated,supports up to 7000 wireless

computers

(512) 404-4000austinconventioncenter.com

ACON_FacilitiesDestinations_2009.indd 1 8/27/09 8:38 AM


CHATTANOOGA AREA CVB2 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402(800) 964-8600; Fax: (423) 265-1630chattanoogameetings.comVP of Sales & Marketing: Steve Genovesi

Chattanooga, A Great City By NatureSnapshot: Welcome to Chattanooga, the perfect meetings destination! Chattanooga has emerged as a top meetings and conventions destination for regional and national associations. Groups typically draw record attendance due to our central location. Chattanooga is within a 3-hour drive of 10 million people. Our Tennessee location is cen-trally located in the Southeast. Bordering Georgia and Alabama, Chattanooga is within two hours of Atlanta, Nashville, Knoxville and Birmingham. Chattanooga Convention Center: 185,000 sq.ft of multipurpose space,

including 100,800 sq. ft. of exhibit space accommodating up to 500 10’x10’ booths, up to 6,288 banquet seating, and up to 8,000 theatre seating; 21 additional meeting rooms; 40,000 sq. ft. of pre-function space wireless high-speed Internet connectivity throughout facility; in-house food and beverage service. Hotel Rooms: 2,000 guest rooms downtown; 6,000 additional rooms city-wide.Additional meeting/event facilities: 1,700-seat Tivoli Theatre; 3,800-seat Memorial Auditorium; 12,000-seat UTC McKenzie Arena; 5,500-seat Camp Jordan Arena; 20,000-seat Finley Stadium; 50,000-sq-ft First Tennessee Pavilion.Full-Service, smaller-meeting hotels: Chattanooga Marriott; Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotels of America; Chattanoogan Hotel; Sheraton Read House.Attractions: Hunter Museum of American Art; Model Railroad Display & Museum; Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park; Tennessee Aquarium; also golf, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking & river tours. See ad on page 21

TEnnEssEE

THE CLASSIC CENTER300 N. Thomas St.Athens, GA 30601(706) 208.0900; (800) 918-6393Fax: (706) 548-0870www.ClassicCenter.comDirector of Sales: Maureen Baker

Be ImpressedSnapshot: In the heart of downtown Athens, Georgia, The Classic Center is a meeting, special events and perform-ing arts venue providing entertainment, unique dining opportunities and pro-grams for all interests.Meeting Space: 80,000 sq. ft.; includ-ing: 29 meeting rooms, Athena Ballroom A-J (18,000 sq. ft.); Grand Hall (27,985 sq. ft.).Theater: 2,122 seats.Lodging: 1,115 hotel rooms within 7 blocks of center. Technology: Built-in A/V systems, wifi

access, onsite A/V & tech staff.Food & Beverage: In-house catering services.Transportation: Athens-Ben Epps Airport; 70 miles from Atlanta air-port.Attractions: Athens is a unique blend of traditional heritage & trend-setting southern culture; Downtown features a legendary music scene, world-renowned night-clubs, distinctive dining, art galleries & trendy shops; Athens Symphony, Athens Welcome Center & Classic City Tours, State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Georgia Museum of Natural History, Georgia’s Antebellum Trail, North Oconee River Greenway, Sandy Creek Nature Center & Sandy Creek Park.See ad on page 55

GEORGIa

COX CONVENTION CENTEROne Myriad GardensOklahoma City, OK 73102(405) 602-8500, Fax (405) 602-8505www.coxconventioncenter.comDirector of Sales & Marketing: Tim LinvilleSnapshot: The Cox Convention Center is one of the most centrally located venues of its kind in the nation. The SMG-managed facility is non-union and located just steps away from a grow-ing number of downtown hotels and a vibrant entertainment district featuring a variety of canal-side restaurants, clubs, music venues, shops and attractions.Meeting Space: 105,000 sq. ft. Meeting Room complex featuring 21 meeting rooms and a 25,000-sq.-ft. ballroom that can be divided into 5 smaller meeting spaces; 100,000-sq.-ft. Exhibit Hall that can be divided into 8 smaller halls, or combined with the Arena floor for

132,000 sq. ft. of total exhibit space; 15,000-seat Arena. Venue Features: wireless internet service and access speeds up to one Gigabit available, four (4) FREE pre-function wi-fi zones; meeting room and ballroom equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: more than 1,400 hotel rooms cur-rently available downtown, including three (3) hotels located directly across from the convention center, while the remainder are within walking distance.Transportation: 10 miles/15 minutes from Will Rogers World Airport, located just off I-40, between I-35 and I-44.Attractions: Ford Center; Bricktown Dining & Entertainment District; Bricktown Canal & Water Taxis; AT&T Bricktown Ballpark; Myriad Botanical Gardens and Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory; Oklahoma City Museum of Art; Civic Center Music Hall; Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum; National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum; Oklahoma City Zoo; Science Museum Oklahoma. See ad on page 23

OklahOMa

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M i s s o u r i

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

The Branson Convention Center, celebrated its grand opening in September 2007, and just one year later distinguished its first anniversary by winning the 2008 Planners’ Choice Award

from Meeting News magazine. The Branson Convention Center was selected as one of 25 convention centers by 4,000 meeting planners to earn this prestigious award.

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

Another factor that will certainly have a positive impact on meeting and convention business, and the local economy, will be the new Branson Airport, which opened May 11. It’s the first privately developed and operated commercial service airport in the country. The airport is expected to open up new markets and dramatically increase the number of visitors — tourists and meeting guests — to the Branson area.

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

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


2 Broad Street, Chattanooga, TN 37402

(800) 964-8600; Fax: (423) 265-1630 • chattanoogameetings.com

Chattanooga is easily accessible, affordable and hospitable... the perfect destination for your next meeting, convention or sporting event. We’re conveniently located in Tennessee and border Georgia and Alabama. Chattanooga’s Metropolitan Airport, just 15 minutes from downtown,

offers non-stop and one-stop air service to thousands of worldwide connections.

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

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

WHAT’S NEW: The Chattanooga Convention Center, one of the first Centers in the nation to partner with a local farm, began a new program to offer conventioneers fresh produce, breads and more from local and in-state purveyors. Wild Moon Ranch & Resort, just 30 minutes from downtown, opened with 6,000 acres offering cabins, stocked lakes, horseback riding, hiking, spa services and more. The Tennessee Aquarium opened a new exhibit, “Jellies: Living Art,” featuring jellyfish alongside breathtaking glass sculptures. The Chattanooga Choo Choo is celebrating 100 years this year and joined the prestigious group of Historic Hotels of America. Outdoor Chattanooga opened their new center on the North Shore where they will be host guided hiking, biking & kayaking trips, seminars, classes and demonstrations. Carmike Cinemas will open the nation’s very first LEED-certified movie theater in downtown Chattanooga. Many new fine-dining restaurants have opened for more dine-around options and new offsite venues including Loose Cannon Art & Event Studio that was opened by a nationally recognized artist.

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

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

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


o k l a h o M a

One Myriad Gardens, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

(405) 602-8500 • Fax (405) 602-5129

www.coxconventioncenter.com

The SMG-managed Cox Convention Center is located in downtown Oklahoma City – a city known for being both accommodating and affordable. The one-million-square-

foot facility is encompassed by a growing number of hotels and attractions, including the Bricktown dining and entertainment district, the Myriad Botanical Gardens, and the Ford Center, a 20,000-seat arena, which is also managed by SMG. The Cox Convention Center is a multi-purpose venue designed

to host everything from meetings and community events to major conventions, tradeshows, concerts and sporting events.

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

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

the one-Million-square-foot facility is surrounded by a growing nuMber of hotels and attractions.

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

TechnologyAs the venue’s naming rights partner, and provider of telecommunication services, Cox continues to ensure that the convention center meets and/or exceed the requirements of its clients and guests. Cox increased wireless Internet capabilities throughout the convention center, allowing SMG to offer free wireless (Wi-Fi) hotspots to visitors in designated pre-function areas. Cox also enhanced the venue’s technology infrastructure to allow Internet access speeds of up to one Gigabit.

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

Hotels & ParkingMore than 1,400 of Oklahoma City’s 15,000-plus hotel rooms are located within walking distance of the Cox Convention Center. Two hotels connect to the facility: the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel is joined by a glass-enclosed sky bridge; and the Sheraton Oklahoma City Hotel offers access through downtown Oklahoma City’s newly-renovated underground concourse, which opens into the convention center’s 900-space underground parking garage. A total of more than 20,000 parking spaces are available throughout the downtown and Bricktown area.

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


f l o r i d a

20 Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide

From a gorgeous beach chic setting to the state-of-the-artmeeting facilities of the Broward County Convention Center,Greater Fort Lauderdale has a knack for making every meeting planner a hero.

MEETING SPACESpanning three floors, the Broward County Convention Centerfeatures 600,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space highlighted bycool Florida décor and an eye-catching waterfront location.You’ll feel right at ease amid dramatic skylights, lofty ceilings,bronze sailfish sculptures and unique underwater motif carpet-ing. And with style comes substance, such as reliable electricaland telephone service, a first aid room and a full range of light-ing and sound controls. Portable performance stages, wall par-titions, full dance floors, risers and an elevated seating risersystem allow for complete versatility.

Within these surroundings, four spacious exhibit halls totalnearly 200,000 sq. ft. on the first floor. Meanwhile, the second floor has amultitude of rooms for break-out sessions. You’ll also find an array of high-tech bells and whistles, such as a 1,300-sq.-ft. Executive TeleconferenceSuite, WiFi hotspots, video conferencing and high-speed Internet access.

FOOD & BEVERAGEFive-star food service is a given at the Broward County Convention Center.In fact, this was the first convention center to be awarded the prestigiousConfrerie de la Chaine des Rotisseurs award. The expert catering staff andlarge kitchens are equipped to handle groups from 10 to 10,000, providingeverything from coffee breaks to elegant sit-down meals, accompanied byunparalleled service and dazzling presentation.

AIRPORT AND TRANSPORTATIONGetting around Greater Fort Lauderdale is a breeze. When you step off yourplane into the terminal at Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport,you’ll immediately see that Greater Fort Lauderdale considers convenient,user-friendly transportation a top priority.

Everything at the airport has been updated, from its parking garage and

terminal to connecting superhighways. And it’s only five minutesfrom the Broward County Convention Center, major hotels, beach-es and Port Everglades, the world’s largest five-star cruise port.

TECHNOLOGYThroughout the facility, you’ll find a fiber-optic Cat 5 and Cat 6infrastructure with Ethernet connections in meeting rooms,exhibit spaces and lobby areas. High speed Internet access isaccomplished via T-1 lines as well as available ISDN lines. ACyber Café and conveniently located kiosks put PCs at your fin-gertips. Of course, you can’t have next-level technology withouttech support. That’s why you’ll enjoy on-site Internet support24/7. Virtual meetings are easy with video conferencing capa-bilities throughout the facility.

RECREATION & ACTIVITIESThe palm-fringed beaches, yacht-lined waterways, great golf, cul-

tural attractions and designer shopping of Greater Fort Lauderdale prove thatit’s possible to mix business and pleasure. Just a short drive from the BrowardCounty Convention Center, Downtown Fort Lauderdale is where’s happening.Explore the shops, galleries and restaurants of trendy Las Olas Boulevard andthe Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District, which includes the BrowardCenter for the Performing Arts, Florida Grand Opera, Museum of Discovery &Science and Blockbuster® 3D IMAX® Theater, and Museum of Art of FortLauderdale.

Throughout the year, Greater Fort Lauderdale’s calendar is filled withevents that provide for unique party venues and ways to unwind, includingarts festivals, concerts from jazz to rock, stand-up comedy and Broadwayshows. For more information and schedules, visit sunny.org.

ACCOMMODATIONSLodgings are one more detail you won’t lose sleep over. Hold a meeting orconvention in Greater Fort Lauderdale and you’ll have 3,500 hotel roomswithin one mile of the Broward County Convention Center out of the 30,000hotel rooms in great locations throughout this spectacular destination, fromHollywood to Deerfield Beach.

GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE/BROWARD COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER

1950 Eisenhower Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 765-5900 • Fax: (954) 763-9551 • www.sunny.org/meetings

GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE/BROWARD COUNTY CONVENTION CENTER

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Greater FortLauderdalehas a knackfor makingevery meetingplanner a hero.

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1950 Eisenhower Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 • (954) 765-5900 • Fax: (954) 763-9551 • www.sunny.org/meetings

GET MORE MEETING FOR LESS IN GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE

In addition to top facilities, comprehensive services and a beach chic setting, the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau has given meeting planners another reason to choose this inviting

destination: SUNsational Savings. When you book the Broward County Convention Center from June

15 to October 15, 2010 – 2013, you’ll enjoy free Convention Center rental space, a free one-hour welcome reception, a 10% credit on exclusive Convention Center services, and an additional 2.5% commission or credit to the hotel master account. Plus, the Greater For Lauderdale CVB will fly you in for a destination preview when you submit an RFP at sunny.org/flyfree. Some conditions apply, so contact [email protected] for complete details. Enjoy VIP room rates with CVB LauderDeals.

You’re a “very important planner,” so Greater Fort Lauderdale is offering plenty of special values on guestrooms, meeting space, food and beverage, and more at some of our finest hotels. These offers are available exclusively to meeting planners — making it easier for you to stretch your budget and impress your guests.

Hold a meeting in Greater Fort Lauderdale and you’ll have 3,500 hotel rooms within one mile of the Broward County Convention Center – that’s out of the 30,000 hotel rooms in great locations from Hollywood to Deerfield Beach.

Select the convenience of a hotel near the airport or choose scenic lodgings along the waterways or the Blue Wave beaches. Discover the Lauderdale Luxe Collection, a designation of fine hotels — such asThe Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale; Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, W Fort Lauderdale; Lago Mar and the Westin Beach Resort, FortLauderdale, Hyatt Regency Bonaventure Conference Center & Spa; and The Westin Diplomat Resort & Spa. From a full-service resort to one of the area’s intimate and comfortable Superior Small Lodgings to every option in between, you’ll find quality accommodations coupled with SUNsational customer service. SUNsational Service starts at the Broward County Convention Center.

From its state-of-the-art meeting facilities to its seasoned catering staff, the Broward County Convention Center specializes in ease. You’ll experience it from the moment you contact the SUNsational Service

g r e at e r f o r t l a u d e r d a l e / b r o w a r d c o u n t y c o n v e n t i o n c e n t e r

team, and it continues as you reach the Convention Center to find everything has been expertly prepared just as you expected.

Spanning three floors, the Broward County Convention Center features 600,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space highlighted by cool Florida décor and an eye-catching waterfront location. Within these surroundings, four spacious exhibit halls total nearly 200,000 sq. ft. on the first floor. You’ll also find an array of high-tech features, such as a 1,300-sq. ft. Executive Teleconference Suite with 62” flat screen digital TV, Wi-Fi hotspots, video conferencing and high-speed Internet access.

Five-star food service is a given at the Broward County Convention Center. The expert catering staff and large kitchens are equipped to handle groups from 10 to 10,000, providing everything from coffee breaks to elegant sit-down meals, accompanied by unparalleled service and dazzling presentation.Getting here is a breeze.

Greater Fort Lauderdale considers convenient, user-friendly transportation a top priority. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International airport (FLL) features the lowest airfares in South Florida, as well as 311 nonstop flights a day from more than 93 U.S. cities, free Wi-Fi Internet, restaurants and gift shops, and a consolidated Rental Car Center located under one roof. And FLL is only seven minutes from the Broward County Convention Center, major hotels, beaches and Port Everglades, the world’s largest five-star cruise port.A destination that defies convention.

The palm-fringed beaches, yacht-lined waterways, great golf, cultural attractions and designer outlet shopping prove that it’s possible to mix business and pleasure. Just a short drive from the Broward County Convention Center, Downtown Fort Lauderdale is where it’s happening.Explore the shops, galleries and restaurants of Las Olas Boulevard and the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District. It’s game time in Greater Fort Lauderdale, whether it’s watching the Florida Panthers play hockey at the BankAtlantic Center, or at the gaming tables of Hollywood Seminole Hard Rock Casino, Mardi Gras and more. For information and event schedules, visit sunny.org.

To start planning your next great meeting or convention, contact:Christine Tascione, CMP, VP, Convention & Group SalesGreater Fort Lauderdale CVB, 100 E. Broward Blvd., Suite 200Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301Toll free: (800) 356-1662 • Email: [email protected]


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

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

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

More meeting for less, in a snap.Get the free app. Go to http://gettag.mobi on your smartphone.

Get the free app for your phone athttp://gettag.mobi

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BCC-106 FacilitiesDestinations-Final.indd 1 11/5/09 5:28:35 PM


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

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

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

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

At The Georgia Center, you will find unparalleled conference planning and event design. Your conference or event is assigned an on-site event management team with the experience and knowledge to coordinate your conference from development to conclusion. And, whether your conference or event is for 30 or 300, the complete experience requires a truly memorable setting. Our Event Designers can create a customized look and feel for your event, from serene elegance to casual fun.

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

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g e o r g i a’ s c o n f e r e n c e c e n t e r & h o t e l

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Conference Center Offerings:20 Meeting Rooms5 Executive Boardrooms16,000 sq. ft. of Exhibit Space2 AuditoriumsConference Registration (on-site or at a site of your choice)Event Designers and PlannersMarketing and Graphic DesignIn-house 24-hour Technical and Audiovisual SupportBusiness Center with Computer/Internet AccessFree Wireless Internet

Hotel Offerings:200 Hotel Rooms, including 11 SuitesMultiple Dining Options:

The Savannah Room RestaurantThe Courtyard CaféGeorgia Java – we proudly brew Starbucks® coffeeDawg House LoungeMagnolia Ballroom and Banquet Areas Evening Room ServiceFree Wireless Internet32” Flat-screen TVsIn-room Microwave, Refrigerator and Coffee MakerFitness Center and Access to Nearby UGA Athletic FacilitiesComplimentary Shuttle Service to and from Downtown Athens, Athens-Ben Epps Airport and Around the University’s CampusOpen to Everyone!


DAyTONA BEACH AREA CVB / OCEAN CENTER CONVENTION COMPLEX126 East Orange Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114 1-800-544-0415 ext.129Fax: (386) 255-5478www.daytonabeachmeetings.comDirector of Convention SalesDaytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau: Sally Gardiner

Daytona Beach: Way More than A BeachSnapshot: Located in the heart of the Daytona Beach Resort Area and just 400 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, the Ocean Center is the area’s premier meet-ing facility. The Ocean Center recently unveiled a $76-million expansion that increases its meeting and exhibit space to 205,536 square feet.Meeting Space: 45,945 sq. ft., includ-ing: 37 meeting rooms; 11,715-sq.-ft Ballroom.

Exhibit Space: 167,980 sq. ft., including 94,770-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall.Arena: 46,000 sq. ft; 9,600 seats.Hotel Rooms: 13,000.Transportation: 5 miles from Daytona Beach International Airport.Attractions: The Daytona Beach area is home to 23 miles of sparkling beaches; top notch golf and tennis facilities includ-ing LPGA International and the United States Tennis Association’s Florida Tennis Center; Daytona Lagoon; Ocean Walk Shoppes; several new spas and restaurants, unique shopping, and an array of family and cultural attractions; Daytona International Speedway; the News-Journal Center; the historic oceanfront Bandshell and Oceanfront Park; the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center; Peabody Auditorium.

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DIRECT ENERGy CENTRE 100 Princes’ Blvd.Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3(416) 263-3020; Fax: (416) 263-3029www.directenergycentre.comDirector of Sales & Marketing: Laura Purdy

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

8,200-seat arena and a 20,000-seat open-air stadium on-site.Meeting Space: 1,072,000 sq. ft. of meeting/exhibit/event space, including 23 meeting rooms; Conference Centre expansion scheduled for 2009.Services: In-house catering and con-cessions department available. On-site parking for 7,000 vehicles.Transportation: 12 miles/20 minutes from Pearson International Airport.Attractions: Air Canada Centre; Scaramouche Restaurant; Hockey Hall of Fame; Le Montmartre Restaurant; The Distillery Historic District; Campbell House Museum; Black Creek Pioneer Village; Textile Museum of Canada; Bata Shoe Museum; Campbell House Museum; Royal Ontario Museum, Clarke Museum; Scarborough Historical Museum; Thomson Memorial Park; MZTV Museum of Television; CBC Museum; Benares Historic House and Visitor Centre.

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40,000 Square Feet of Meeting Space

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George R. Brown Convention Center1001 Avenida de las AmericasHouston, TX 77010(713) 853-8000; (800) 427-4697Fax: (713) 853-8090www.HoustonConventionCtr.comGeneral Manager: Luther Villagomez

Snapshot: Located in the heart of downtown Houston, the George R. Brown Convention Center is within comfortable walking distance of several major attractions. Across the street is the lush 12-acre Discovery Green park. Nearby are the sports venues Toyota Center and Minute Maid

GEORGE R. BROWN CONVENTION CENTER1001 Avenida de las AmericasHouston, TX 77010(713) 853-8000; (800) 427-4697Fax: (713) 853-8090www.HoustonConventionCtr.comGeneral Manager: Luther Villagomez

Snapshot: Located in the heart of down-town Houston, the George R. Brown Convention Center is within comfortable walking distance of several major attrac-tions. Across the street is the lush 12-acre Discovery Green park. Nearby are the sports venues Toyota Center and Minute Maid Park. New to the neighborhood is the Houston Pavilions entertainment hub. Convenient? Yes. Fun? You bet.Meeting Space: The GRB features 1,200,000 sq. ft. of exhibition, meeting and registration space, including 639,000 contiguous sq. ft. on five street-level exhibit halls. Two exhibit halls on third level are accessible to trucks via ramps and drive-in

doors. Other facilities include a ballroom measuring 31,500 sq. ft., a 3,600 tier-seated amphitheater, an exhibit hall with retractable seating for 6,600, 100 meeting rooms and four exterior balconies suit-able for outdoor receptions, each measur-ing nearly 3,000 sq. ft.Technology: The GRB offers single-mode and multi-mode fiber backbone in all areas of the building, wireless access throughout the facility, redundant ISP networks, gigabit LAN service to any meeting room or exhibit hall, webcasting services, dedicated network monitoring, temporary LAN/WAN/VPN construc-tion, complete telephone service (single line, multi-line and digital), and ISDN, T-1 and other special high-speed data circuits.Hotel Rooms: 5,000 within one mile of GRB; 60,000 citywide.Transportation: Bush Intercontinental Airport and Hobby Airport are both full-service airports. Flat rate $6 cab rides anywhere downtown. Light-rail service from downtown to points south.Attractions: Discovery Green, Theater District, Space Center Houston, Downtown Aquarium, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Museum District, Galleria shopping, all major sports and year-round golf. See ad on Cover 4

TExas

THE GEORGIA CENTER, THE UNIVERSITy OF GEORGIA’S CONFERENCE CENTER & HOTEL1197 S. Lumpkin StreetAthens, GA 30602(706) 542-2654; (800) 488-7827Fax: (706) 542-6630www.georgiacenter.uga.eduSales Director: Kim Rogers

The Go-To Conference Center & HotelSnapshot: The Georgia Center provides comprehensive event services for profes-sional associations, educational organiza-tions, businesses, government entities and the community. Lodging: 200 rooms with 11 suites.Meeting Sizes: up to 600.Overall Meeting Space: 30,000 sq. ft.; including 20 Meeting Rooms; 5 Executive Boardrooms; Ballroom and Banquet areas.

Exhibit Space: 16,000 sq. ft.Theater/Auditorium: 375-600 seats.Technology: Wireless Internet through-out facility/hotel rooms; Smart Podiums with the latest AV Technology; 24/7 onsite technical support.Services: Onsite Event Managers, Designers & Planners; Registration Services; Customized Meeting Packages; Marketing, Promotion, Graphic Design and Website Development; Business Center with Computer/Internet Access.Food & Beverage: Banquet Menu Planning; Evening and Event Cocktail Service; Full-Service Catering.Restaurants: Savannah Room Restaurant (Gourmet Southern Cuisine); Courtyard Café (hot entrées, soups and salad bar); Georgia Java (Starbucks Coffee, specialty sandwiches & delightful desserts; Dawg House Lounge (sports-bar atmosphere & tavern menu) Magnolia Ballroom and Private Banquet Areas.Attractions: Georgia Museum of Art; State Botanical Gardens; Butts-Mehre Athletic Museum; UGA Golf Course; Double-Barrel Cannon; Lyndon House Arts Center; Athena Statue; Morton Theatre; 40 Watt Club; Unique Restaurants/Shops/Pubs/Clubs.See ad on page 26

GEORGIa

THE GREATER FORT LAUDERDALE/ BROWARD COUNTy CONVENTION CENTER1950 Eisenhower BlvdFort Lauderdale, FL 33316(954) 765-5900; Fax: (954) 763-9551www.ftlauderdalecc.comAssistant General Manager: Terry Kuca

Premier Oceanside Convention Center Located In The Venice of America Snapshot: The 600,000-sq.ft. Greater Fort Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center, one of the premier large meeting venues in the southeast, is easily acces-sible, located just five minutes from the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. And the renowned five-star food and beverage department, famous for its gourmet seated meals and selection of snack carts, ensure meetings at the Center are a success.

Meeting Space: 349,514 sq. ft. of meeting/exhibit space; 32 meeting rooms; Three Ballrooms, includ-ing 30,000-sq.-ft. Grand Floridian Ballroom, 20,000-sq.-ft. Floridian Ballroom, and 10,000-sq.-ft. Palm Ballroom; 250,486 sq. ft. of Exhibit Space, including 64,887-sq.-ft.-Main Exhibit Hall; 15,000-seat Theater. Venue Features: wifi; webcasting; CAT 5; on-site kitchen; Breezin’ Java/Cyber Café which features eight permanent terminals and at least eight more plug-in table locations for laptops, Starbuck’s coffees, as well as specialty foods & beverages and TV monitors tuned to CNN/MSNBC news. Transportation: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: more than 33,000 hotel rooms at a variety of hotels, resorts and Superior Small Lodgings.Attractions: 23 miles of Blue Wave beaches, 300 miles of navigable inland waterways, downtown Arts & Entertainment district, more than 4,000 restaurants, More than 60 golf courses, International Swimming Hall of Fame, Sawgrass Mills Mall.See ad on Page 25

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12 Facilities & Destinations Conference Mid-Atlantic

VIRGINIA

JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY EVENTS & CONFERENCESMSC 3501Harrisonburg, VA 22807(540) 568-6330; Fax: (540) 568-6444www.jmu.edu/eventsConference Coordinator: Joyce Bentz

Snapshot: James Madison University ranges in services and meeting space from our Grand Ballroom to classrooms and computer labs. Nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Ridge, this 472-acre campus blends the spirit of a collegiate atmo-sphere with the natural beauty and resources of the area.Meeting Sizes Accommodated: 50 to over 1,100.Overall Meeting Space: 20,000+ sq. ft.Number of of Meeting Rooms: 30Ballroom: 9,000 sq. ft.Lodging: 2,300 onsite guestrooms (12 hotels within 5 miles radius).

Meeting Services: One-Stop Shop Location; Conference Services staff works with you on all your confer-ence needs; Every summer conference is assigned a Conference Assistant to handle all check-in and check-out pro-cedures, rosters, parking/transportation, facility setups, meal guarantees, direction-al signs, and an optional linen service.Meeting Technology: All classrooms and meeting space are equipped with audio-visual equipment and at least one computer connected to the campus LAN line. The Internet is also accessi-ble in the dormitories for any overnight stay using an Ethernet cord. Additional equipment is available upon request.Food & Beverage: onsite catering available; two large dining facilities that serve all three meals buffet style with a rotating menu. Activities: Tennis and sand volleyball courts; University Recreation Center, a nationally recognized 140,700-sq.-ft. facility, can also be used by meeting attendees.Nearby Attractions: Massunutten Resort, Skyline Drive hiking and Luray Caverns.Transportation: The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport: 15 miles; Dulles International Airport: 120 miles.

VIRGINIA

THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTER18980 Upper Belmont PlaceLansdowne, VA 20176(800) 640-2684; (703) 729-8000Fax: (703) 729-5382www.conferencencenter.comDirector of Sales and Marketing: Eric Whitson

The National Conference Center…where groups arrive as many and leave as one!Snapshot: The National Conference Center gives you the advantage of a powerful infrastructure and the inti-macy of an individual meeting com-munity to ensure results for training and management conferences. Located just 12 miles from Dulles International Airport, The National Conference Center is the largest marketed confer-ence center in the U.S.Meeting Sizes Accommodated: 10 to 1,800.Lodging: 917 guest rooms.

Overall Meeting Space: 266,500 sq. ft.Number of Meeting Rooms: 250Ballroom: 16,500 sq. ft.Exhibit Space: 26, 750 sq. ft.Theater Seating: 1,800 (maximum).Meeting Technology: Wifi capable; webcasting and video conferencing available in addition to all major audio-visual needs as supplied by our in-house team of technical professionals.Food & Beverage: Meeting Packages include three-meals per day in our 800 seat dining room. Private banquets, theme dinners and off-site event catering; Black Olive Bar and Grill; Starbucks“ Cafe.Activities: A complete selection of Cardio Equipment, treadmills, stair-climbers, elliptical, recumbent bikes, nautilus strength-training circuit, and free weights; The Sports Center and Ropes Course – The sports center fea-tures volleyball, basketball, racquetball, squash, 25-meter outdoor lap pool, ten-nis, beach (sand) volleyball, bicycles.

VIRGINIA

HILTON GARDEN INN FAIRFAX3950 Fair Ridge DriveFairfax, VA 22033(703) 667-9371; Fax: (703) 667-9376www.fairfax.gardeninn.comDirector of Sales & Marketing: Thida Ilyadis

“Everything. Right where you need it.”Snapshot: At the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel in Northern Virginia, you’ll find everything you need, from the welcoming pavilion to the guestrooms designed to address the needs of today’s travelers. The Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel features: small to medium size meeting and banquet rooms for up to 300 guests. dedicated and friendly sales staff to focus on the details; current and up-to-date audio/visual equipment and technology.Meeting Sizes Accommodated: Up to 300.Overall Meeting Space: 8,000 sq. ft.

Meeting/Event Rooms: Patriot Room (764 sq. ft.); Prosperity Ballroom (1,522 sq. ft.); Prosperity I (848 sq. ft.); Prosperity II (674 sq. ft.); Providence Ballroom (2,739 sq.ft.); Providence I (900 sq. ft.); Providence II (991 sq. ft.); Providence III (958 sq. ft.); Garden Patio (3,301 sq. ft.). Theater Seating: 70 to 280.Classroom Seating: 40 to185.Meeting Services: Business Center; state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment; video conferencing available; Meeting Packages from comprehensive corpo-rate packages to single meeting room rentals.Lodging: 149 guest rooms.Food & Beverage: in-house catering; Great American Grill® restaurant; The Pavilion Pantry® convenience mart.Amenities: Lounge; Fitness Center; pool; Multi-Lingual Staff.Nearby Attractions: Washington D.C.; Fair Oaks Shopping Mall; Capital Expo Shipping Mall; Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets; Tyson Corner Shopping Mall.Transportation: 8 miles from Washington Dulles International Airport; 18 miles from Washington DC and Ronald Reagan National Airport.

3950 Fair Ridge DriveFairfax, VA 22033www.fairfax.hgi.com

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

The Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel in Northern Virginia offers:

Small to medium size meeting and banquet rooms for up to 300 guests Dedicated and friendly sales staff to focus on the details Current and up-to-date audio/visual equipment and technology On-site catering with high-quality and variety of menus to compliment any budget.

Please contact Steve Steinberg at 703.385.7774 or [email protected]


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

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

Conveniently located at the crossroads of the South, the I-55 and I-20 corridor makes Jackson, Mississippi, an easily accessible destination for your delegates. Whether traveling by train, car or one of our eight airline carriers into the Jackson International Airport, the City with Soul is the perfect location for your next meeting.

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

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

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

Jackson, Mississippi: New Face. New Space. Same Place.If you are a meeting planner looking for a new meeting destination,

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

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

J a c k s o n c o n v e n t i o n & v i s i t o r s b u r e a u

M i s s i s s i p p i


HAMPTON ROADS CONVENTION CENTER1610 Coliseum DriveHampton, VA 23666(757) 722-1222; (800) 487-8778Fax: (757) 896-4600 www.thehrcc.comDirector of Sales: Lacy Gibson(757) 728-5335

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

a cluster of hotels, the Hampton Coliseum, and the new Power Plant. Meeting Space: 344,000 sq. ft., including 35 meeting rooms and 18 breakout rooms; 27,907-sq.ft. Ballroom; 102,600-sq.-ft. Exhibit Hall; 5,130 Theater Seating.Technology: Wireless internet, state-of-the-art sound system (equipped for television and radio broadcasts), data ports in all rooms/exhibit hall, plasma directional screens.Lodging: 2,500+ Hotel Rooms.Entertainment & Dining: Power Plant of Hampton Roads, Peninsula Town Center, Queens Way in down-town Hampton.Transportation: 12 miles to either Norfolk International Airport and Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport.Attractions: Virginia Air & Space Center, Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe, Hampton Carousel, Miss Hampton II harbor cruise, Hampton University Museum, Hampton History Museum, Buckroe Beach.

vIRGInIa

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO 1 Seminole WayHollywood, FL 33314(954) 327-ROCK; Fax: (954) 327-7655www.seminolehardrockhollywood.comDirector of Sales: Mark Tascione

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is South Florida’s only Casino Resort. Snapshot: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino offers 500 Luxury Hotel Rooms; 40,000-sq. ft. of meeting & event space, including the 5,500-seat Hard Rock Live arena and 140,000 sq. ft of gaming space. Adjacent to Seminole Paradise, featuring bars, restaurants, night-clubs and stylish boutiques. Meeting Space: Our 40,000 square feet of meeting and exhibit space includes a 16,000 square-foot grand ballroom divis-ible by eight and several smaller rooms for breakouts and board meetings. Plus Hard

Rock Live features a 5,500 seat arena with multi-functional space that can host exhibitions, concerts, and large special events.Theater: 5,500-seat-arena.Lodging: 500 Guest Rooms.Meeting Features: Wifi throughout ballroom/meeting room; portable stages, illuminated lectern, podiums, stack chairs; onsite conference services coordinator.Food & Beverage: wide range of restaurants include - Hard Rock Cafe; Council Oak Steaks and Seafood; Blue Plate; The Beach Club; Blue Point Ocean Grill; Tuscany Italian Bistro; Tatu; Renegade Barbeque; Murphy’s Law Irish Pub; Opium; Pangaea; Passion Nightclub.Transportation: 15 minutes form Ft Lauderdale Airport $25; 45 minutes from Miami International Airport; taxi $80. Attractions: European Style Spa; A 24-hour casino features Vegas Style Table Games including Blackjack, Baccarat, 2,400 slots & Premier Poker Room.See ad on page 27

FlORIDa

HILTON ATLANTA255 Courtland Street, NE, Atlanta, GA 30303(404) 659-2000; Fax: (404) 221-6368www.atlanta.hilton.comDirector of Sales and Marketing: Edd Karlan

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

Snapshot: The newly-renovated Hilton Atlanta hotel offers stylish and chic guest rooms designed for a serene and inviting stay. Known for extraordinary cuisine, guests at Hilton Atlanta delight in a variety of restaurant outlets. A complete recreational menu including fitness center with cutting-edge equipment, outdoor swimming pool, outdoor running track, and tennis and basketball courts.Meeting Space: 119,000 sq. ft., includ-ing 55 meeting rooms, 18,576-sq.-ft.

Ballroom; 41,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall.Total Exhibit Space: 18,576 sq. ft. Theater: 2,200 seats in Grand Ballroom.Lodging: 1,242 guest rooms.Technology: High speed and wireless internet; In-house audio visual services; Electronic readerboards; Airline boarding pass kiosk; Check-in/check-out kiosks.Hotel Features: Hilton Serenity bed with signature linen; Spacious work desk with granite counter top; Ergonomic chair; 32” HD flat panel television.Dining & Entertainment: Nikolai’s Roof; Trader Vic’s; Luckie Marietta District; Atlantic Station; Castleberry Hill; Virginia Highland.Transportation: 15 minutes/9 miles to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.Attractions: Covered skybridge accessibility to MARTA & conven-tion hotel; Georgia World Congress Center; Georgia Dome; Philips Arena; Zoo Atlanta; Georgia Aquarium; CNN Center; Fox Theatre; World of Coca-Cola; Martin Luther King Historical Center; Centennial Park; Atlanta Civic Center.See Ad on Page 13

GEORGIa

HILTON GARDEN INN FAIRFAX3950 Fair Ridge DriveFairfax, VA 22033(703) 385-7774; Fax: (703) 667-9376www.fairfax.gardeninn.comGeneral Manager: Steve Steinberg

“Everything. Right where you need it.”Snapshot: At the Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel in Northern Virginia, you’ll find everything you need, from the welcoming pavilion to the guestrooms designed to address the needs of today’s travelers. The Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax hotel features: small to medium size meeting and banquet rooms for up to 300 guests, dedicated and friendly sales staff to focus on the details; current and up-to-date audio/visual equipment and technology.Meeting Sizes: Up to 300.Overall Meeting Space: 8,000 sq. ft.

Meeting/Event Rooms: Patriot Room (764 sq. ft.); Prosperity Ballroom (1,522 sq. ft.); Prosperity I (848 sq. ft.); Prosperity II (674 sq. ft.); Providence Ballroom (2,739 sq.ft.); Providence I (900 sq. ft.); Providence II (991 sq. ft.); Providence III (958 sq. ft.); Garden Patio (3,301 sq. ft.). Theater Seating: 70 to 280.Classroom Seating: 40 to 185.Meeting Services: Business Center; state-of-the-art audio/visual equipment; video conferencing available; Meeting Packages from comprehensive corporate packages to single meeting room rentals.Lodging: 149 guest rooms.Food & Beverage: in-house catering; Great American Grill® restaurant; The Pavilion Pantry® convenience mart.Amenities: Lounge; Fitness Center; pool; Multi-Lingual Staff.Nearby Attractions: Washington D.C.; Fair Oaks Shopping Mall; Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets; Tyson Corner Shopping Mall.Transportation: 11 miles from Washington Dulles International Airport; 18 miles from Washington DC and Ronald Reagan National Airport. See ad on page 28

vIRGInIa

Topeka,Kansas

Professional services andamenities, with friendly,Midwestern hospitality.

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

Technological CapabilitiesTechnological capabilities at the Center include T1, ISND, Internet and satellite uplink support. Teleconferencing and simulcasting to other locations are also available. And, on the exhibit floor, the electricity is “flown from the air.” Also of note is a newly-designed Web site that informs the public about upcoming events at the center. This Web site features the latest technology

Meadowlands expo center also offers great deMographics and it Maintains a group-friendly facility with liberal work regulations.

M e a d o w l a n d s e x p o s i t i o n c e n t e r

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

Professional ServiceOnsite is a professional staff to work one-on-one with planners with special needs and budgets. Plus, there are event coordinators, in-house decorators and other support personnel to make any event a flawless event.For food and beverage, the Meadowlands has also renovated and restructured their operations to better suit the individual needs of each event held at the facility. There are also three food concession stands, all of which also have been recently renovated.

Hotel PartnersFive national chain hotels are within a walking distance of the Meadowlands Exposition Center. Together they total approximately 1,000 guestrooms and there are another 1,500 rooms in the nearby area. Some of the major properties include: Holiday Inn • Embassy Suites • Hampton Inn • Hyatt • Courtyard by Marriott

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

TransportationPart of the Meadowlands’ attraction to meeting planners is that it can be easily reached by three international airports: JFK, LaGuardia and Newark International Airport. And, only 12 minutes from the facility is the Teterboro Jetport. For driving enthusiasts, Newark is also in close proximity to major interstates including the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway. Also, both the New York and New Jersey transit system schedule stops right at the door.

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2350 Beach Boulevard, Biloxi, Mississippi 39531 • (228) 896-6699 • www.gulfcoast.org

The Mississippi Gulf Coast

You will find a lot to love here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Like 400,000 square feet of newly expanded and renovated exhibit and meeting space at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum

and Convention Center (MCCCC). The centerpiece of this beachfront convention center is the

129,500-square-foot exhibit space. It has unlimited floor load capacity, huge loading docks, and all the power anyone could need.

This is flexible space. With 22 breakout rooms, we can handle all the breakout sessions you can throw at us. Need a fresh gulf seafood dinner for 6,000? No problem. If you need the arena, you’ll get another 30,000 square feet of space and seating for 9,000. One distinct advantage the MCCCC has as a newly-expanded facility is the quality of our technology. You’ll find the latest in telecommunications here. 3G technology. Digital and analog lines. 94 wireless access points. Peer-to-Peer Networking. Webcasting.

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

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

The area boasts 18,000 rooms, 5,000 committable for meetings. Accommodations range from the luxury of penthouse suites to the fun of a little mom-and-pop motor court. The RV fan will find plenty of parks available.

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

M i s s i s s i p p i c o a s t c o l i s e u M a n d c o n v e n t i o n c e n t e r

M i s s i s s i p p i

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

The Mississippi Gulf Coast features signature courses designed by the likes of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio and Jerry Pate. With twenty courses to choose from, your delegates could swing clubs for weeks and never play the same hole twice.

Everyone asks about the shopping. The Mississippi Gulf Coast is dotted with unique boutiques, factory outlets, and places where you can find that special gift. Works by our talented artists and craftsmen are available throughout the area. Antiquing here is a sport in itself. If you are looking for mint collectibles or pieces that need a little loving care, you can find them on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

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

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

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

You’re meeting on the Mississippi Gulf Coast

Mississippi Coast Convention CenterNow Open!*

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

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

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

Email the Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB at [email protected] or call us at 888-467-4853. Then, you can start to relax.

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

MGC Fac&Dest.indd 1 9/14/09 11:37 AM


visitnorfolktoday.com | 1-800-368-3097

The heart of the Virginia Waterfront.

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

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

AFFORDABLE MEETINGS NEVER

LOOKED SO GOOD.

IRVING CONVENTION CENTER AT LAS COLINAS500 Las Colinas Blvd E Irving, TX 75039(972) 252-7476; (800) 247-8464www.irvingconventioncenter.comGeneral Manager: Thom Connors

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

Meeting Space: 100,000 sq. ft., including 20 meeting rooms; 20,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 50,000-sq.-ft., col-umn-free Exhibit Hall. Lodging: More than 80 hotels within 10 minutes of the convention center; 18 properties are within a 2-mile radius.Transportation: 6 miles to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.Attractions: The Dallas/Fort Worth area is a vibrant area, includ-ing six major universities and teams from the four major profes-sional sports leagues that call the “Metroplex” home; location of Neiman Marcus store; dozens of malls and hundreds of boutiques; chic cocktail bars and adrenaline-pumping nightclubs; Dallas/Fort Worth has a greater per-capita density of restaurants than NyC With hundreds of restaurants in Irving alone.

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JACKSON CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 111 East Capitol Street, Suite 102 Jackson, MS 39201(800) 354-7695; Fax: (601) 960-1827www.visitjackson.comVice President of Sales: Shun Hatten

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

pamphlets, brochures and maps; and news releases.Meeting Space: the new Jackson Convention Complex features 85,000 sq. ft. of divisible space, including a 60,000-sq.-ft. exhibit hall, a 25,000-sq.-ft. ballroom, and 33,000 sq. ft. of lobbies, concourse, and registration areas.In addition to our 330,000-sq.-ft. Jackson Convention Complex, the City with Soul offers 12 convention hotels that can accommodate a variety of meet-ing sizes.Transportation: 8 carriers fly into the Jackson International Airport daily.Attractions: New Entertainment districts offers Southern flare & nightlife galore; Farish Street offers entertainment & history; eclectic & vast, Jackson restaurants range from Greek-inspired, Southern soul food to fine dining; music venues show-case blues, jazz, and even bluegrass; Mississippi Art Museum; Old Capitol Museum; Agricultural & Forestry Museum; Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame; Plans are underway to complete the Mississippi Children’s Museum, as well as start construction on a National Civil Rights Museum.See ad on page 29

MIssIssIPPI

JACKSON CONVENTION COMPLEX105 E Pascagoula Street, Jackson, MS 39201(601) 960-2321, (877) 383-MEETFax: (601) 960-2584www.jacksonconventioncomplex.com General Manager: Linda McCarthy

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

Meeting Space: 128,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, including 23 meeting rooms, 25,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom and 60,000-sq.-ft. Exhibit Hall.Total Exhibit Space: 85,000 sq. ft.Theater: 6,000 total capacity.Technology: State-of-the-art tele-communications and audio-visual; Plasma screen monitors and electronic directional signage throughout; CAT 5 wiring and communication data ports throughout; Satellite and television cable distribution.Other Venue Features: Fenced staging and load-in dock area; Movable wall divider system; Easily accessible freight elevators; Ballroom and exhibit hall rigging points; Acoustic wall panels in exhibit hall; Business Center; Separate ballroom Entrance from Street. Transportation: 12 miles from Jackson International Airport.Nearby Attractions: The Eudora Welty House & Gardens, The new Mississippi Museum of Art; Russell C. Davis Planetarium; One of the oldest governor’s mansions in the US; The new Mississippi Children’s Museum.

MIssIssIPPI

JW MARRIOTT INDIANAPOLIS10 S. West StreetIndianapolis, IN 46204(317) 822-8554; Fax: (317) 822-8464www.jwindy.comDirector of Group Sales: Anne Dunlavy

Marriott Place Indianapolis: 145,000 square feet of space. 2,200 rooms. 5 hotels. One Place.Snapshot: JW Marriott Indianapolis anchors the Marriott Place Indianapolis, a Meeting Hotel Complex, features 104,000 sq. ft. of meeting space with 1,005 elegantly appointed guest rooms & suites in addition to Courtyard by Marriott (297 rooms), SpringHill Suites by Marriott; (156 suites) and the Fairfield Inn & Suite by Marriott (168 rooms & suites) and Indianapolis Marriott (622 rooms & 40,000 sq. ft. meeting space. Entire complex connected via skybridge to the 1+ million square feet Indiana

Convention Center.JW Marriott Indianapolis: 104,000 sq. ft. of meeting/event space including 32 Meeting Rooms; a 40,500-sq.-ft. Ballroom (theater-style seating -4,250); 20,000-sq.ft. Main Exhibit Hall.Lodging: 2,248 rooms (all 5 Marriott Place Hotels).Technology: State-of-the-art wireless internet; video conferencing and web-casting capabilities.Indiana Convention Center: Connected by skybridge to Marriott Space, features: 180,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, includ-ing 83 meeting rooms & 33,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom. By 2011, completed expansion will feature 567,000 + sq. ft. of contigu-ous space (747,000 sq. ft. when com-bined with adjacent Lucas Oil Stadium). Transportation: 15 miles to Indianapolis International AirportAttractions: White River State Park; Conseco Fieldhouse; “The Lawn” Outdoor Concert Venue • Circle Centre Mall (200+ stores & restaurants); Indiana State Museum; Indianapolis Zoo; NCAA Hall of Champions; River Promenade Indianapolis 500; Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art; Indianapolis Museum of Art. See ad on Cover 3

InDIana

KANSAS EXPOCENTREOne Expocentre Drive, Topeka, KS 66612-1442(785) 235-1986; Fax: (785) 235-2967www.KsExpo.comGeneral Manager: H.R. Cook,[email protected]

The Premier Entertainment, Exhibition & Convention Facility in Northeast Kansas.Snapshot: Whether you’re planning a meeting, convention or an arena-sized event for 10,000 screaming fans, the Kansas Expocentre has the space to make it happen. We offer professonal services and amenities with friendly, Midwestern hospitality & at prices that won’t break your budget. Meeting Space: 116,000+ sq. ft. of flex-ible exhibit &meeting space, including 15 meeting rooms; 44,500-sq.ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 11,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom.Theater Seating: 1,100.Landon Arena: 10,000 seats.

Total Exhibit Space: 210,000 sq. ft. Lodging: 224 rooms attached; 3 nearby convention hotels; 3,000+ hotel rooms city-wide. Technology: State-of-the-art sound system & wifi available in arena and exhibit hall.Features: 1,400-seat R.R. Domer Livestock arena.Transportation: 12 miles from Forbes Field; 72 miles from Kansas City International; 75% of U.S. one day drive away.Entertainment: Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant; Via’s Pizzeria; Chez Yasu French Restaurant; Paisano’s Ristorante, Tuptim Thai; numerous steak houses; plus, Gage Center fea-tures restaurants & nightspots. Attractions: Gage Park – Zoo, Carousel, Mini-Train, Rose Garden; Lake Shawnee – Botanical Gardens, walking trail, paddle boats, golf course, fishing and boating; Old Prairie Town - pioneer village and gardens; Brown v. Board Historic Site & Museum; Kansas Statehouse; Kansas Museum of History.See Ad on Page 31

kansas

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I N OU TFOR YOUR NEXT CONVENTION OR MEETING, LOOK TO THE CITY

THAT IS THE NBA’S NEXT JEWEL IN THE CROWN.

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UNI_OKC_J75-Facil&Dest I&O.indd 1 8/10/09 2:04 PM

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide


189 West Sheridan, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

(405) 297-8912; (800) 225-5652 Fax: (405) 297-8888 www.visitokc.com

OKLAHOMA CITy: COOL & WARMConvention & Visitors Bureau Unveils New Advertising Campaign

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

the cool is the cosMopolitan feel . . . the warM is the people

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o k l a h o M a

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PLAN YOUR NEXT MEETING OR CONVENTION IN A CITY

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UNI_OKC_J74_Fac.&Dest.indd 1 8/10/09 2:23 PM

Facilities & Destinations 2009 Planner Guide

MEADOWLANDS EXPOSITION CENTER355 Plaza DriveSecaucus, NJ 07094(201) 330-7773; (888) 400-EXPOFax: (201) 330-1172www.mecexpo.comSMG Regional General Manager: Robin Cuneo

“MEC Is Your Cost Efficient Alternative To NYC!”Snapshot: A convenient and cost-effective facility in the Northeast, Meadowlands Exposition Center, a nine-time Prime Site Award Winner, features more than 60,000 square feet of dedicated meeting/exhibition space and state-of-the-art facilities and onsite services.Meeting Space: 64,758 sq. ft. square feet of contiguous, dedicated exhibit space, including a 61,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 20-foot ceiling heights; accommo-dations for up to 400 exhibit booths; five

meeting/seminar rooms; flexible lobby for registration, reception or additional exhibit space; Seating for up to 6,000 attendees, concert or theater-style.Venue Features: T-1,Wireless Internet, satellite uplink support, “flown from the air” electric, teleconferencing capabili-ties; Catering facilities for up to 5,000 dinner guests; three newly-renovated concession stands; Onsite Decorating Services; 2 drive-in doors and 4 loading docks on street level for easy access; over 3,000 free parking spaces.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: 1,000 hotel rooms within walking distance; additional 1,500 rooms within a five-mile radius.Transportation: Seven miles from Newark Liberty International Airport; adjacent to a network of major highways.Nearby Attractions: Minutes from Manhattan; surrounded by six major hotels and approximately 40 restau-rants and eateries; Meadowlands Sports Complex, which includes Giants Stadium, IZOD Center and the Meadowlands Racetrack.See ad on page 33

nEw JERsEY

MEMPHIS COOK CONVENTION CENTER255 North Main StreetMemphis, TN 38103-0016(901)576-1200; (800) 726-0915Fax: (901) 576-1212www. memphisconvention.comGeneral Manager: Pierre Landaice

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

sq. ft. of meeting/exhibit space; a 125,000 sq. ft., column-free Exhibit Hall; 31 meeting rooms; a 28,000 sq. ft. elegantly appointed ballroom; a 35,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall (South Hall); and the new, state-of-the-art 2,100-seat Cannon Center for the Performing Arts.Hotel Rooms: More than 2,000 hotel rooms within eight blocks of the center.Transportation: 20 minutes from Memphis International Airport.Nearby Attractions: National Civil Rights Museum; Soulsville: Stax Museum of American Soul Music; Graceland, Home of Elvis Presley;; Sun Studio; Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous World Famous Ribs; B.B. King’s Blues Club; Beale Street Entertainment District; Overton Square Entertainment District; Delta Blues Museum; Memphis Brooks Museum of Art; Memphis Riverboats; Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum; Mud Island River Park; Center for Southern Folklore; Chucalissa Museum.

TEnnEssEE


f l o r i d a

West Concourse - 9800 International Drive

South Concourse - 9899 International Drive

North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd., Orlando, FL 32819

(407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800 • Fax: (407) 685-9876 • www.occc.net

ORLANDO’S ORANGE COUNTy CONVENTION CENTER UNLOCKS THE SECRET TO MEETING SUCCESS

It’s simple: superb hospitality, flawless service and total convenience. These elements define the attendee experience, affecting how they feel, how well they’re able to network and how they perceive the event as a whole. If any one of them falls short, so does the event.

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

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

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

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

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

tropical aMbiance and colossal space are Just the beginning.

o r a n g e c o u n t y c o n v e n t i o n c e n t e r

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

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

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

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

Upon completion, the following developments will add nearly 2,150 rooms to Orlando’s current 113,000-room inventory, making this center of hospitality more welcoming than ever. Hilton Orlando Hotel:The beautiful new 1,400-room Hilton Orlando Hotel opened recently and is the first hotel to connect to the Center’s South Concourse by a pedestrian sky bridge.Peabody Hotel:The Peabody Orlando has broken ground on a 750-room expansion this fall, adding a 32-story, 750-room guest tower. Plans include two pedestrian bridges, connecting the hotel with the Convention Center’s North/South and West Concourses.

Orange County Convention Center ORLANDOOrange County Convention Center ORLANDOOrange County Convention Center

Partnering for Excellence On-site Service PartnersCenterplate – Catering

Cosby’s Corporate Massage Services

FedEx Kinko’s – Business Centers Scootaround Mobility ServicesTM for all your mobility needsSmartCity – Telecommunications and Internet Service

iStreamPlanet – WebcastingLMG – Audio Visual Services

Bags – Skycap and Valet Services

On-site Gold Key PartnersUniversal Orlando Resort®

WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort

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

www.occc.net

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

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

Partner Waves.indd 1 10/2/09 11:03:05 AM


144 Westminster Street, Providence, RI 02903

Phone: (401) 456-0200; Fax: (401) 273-7046 • www.GoProvidence.com

PROVIdENCE, RHOdE ISLANd: THE CREATIVE CAPITAL

Providence, Rhode Island is a vibrant Northeastern city, where original thinking is expansive and every experience is personal, so you are free to create. Hailed as one of the “Top 10 Up-and-

Coming Travel Destinations in the World” by The Wall Street Journal, Providence is an ideal location for any meeting. The city, both hip and historic, offers a broad spectrum of dining, shopping, arts and entertainment options – all within walking distance of each other.

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

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

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

The 1,900-seat VMA, a historic performing arts venue, is the newest addition to the Rhode Island Convention Center’s family. This easily accessible theater is known for its unique combination of size and intimacy, superb acoustics and great sight lines.

the city, both hip and historic, offers a broad spectruM of dining, shopping, arts and entertainMent options

p r o v i d e n c e w a r w i c k c o n v e n t i o n & v i s i t o r s b u r e a u

r h o d e i s l a n d

The VMA is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.The Complex is conveniently located within one mile of 2,200

hotel rooms, and there are a total of 5,500 rooms available in the Greater Providence area. Providence’s newest hotel, the 110-room Hampton Inn & Suites Providence, opened in the spring of 2009.

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

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

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

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


MIAMI BEACH CONVENTION CENTER1901 Convention Center DriveMiami Beach, FL 33139(305) 673-7311; Fax: (305) 673-7435www.miamibeachconvention.comDirector of Sales: Kay Hollander

Snapshot: Located in the heart of South Florida, in world-renowned Miami Beach, The Miami Beach Convention Center is conveniently situated only minutes from the Miami International Airport, down-town Miami and the Port of Miami. Spanning four city blocks of a sunny south Florida Beach, the center is within easy walking distance of the art deco district and some of america’s most spectacular beaches. Meeting Space: 72 meeting rooms; a 21,252-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 125,910 sq. ft. of meeting and function space on two levels; 502,848-sq.-ft Total Exhibit

Space that can be configured as one large expanse of exhibit space, or subdivided into four separate halls, including HALL A - 119,970 sq. ft. HALL B - 117,648 sq. ft., HALL C - 132,240 sq. ft., HALL D - 132,990 sq. ft. Venue Features: unlimited floor load capacity, and 35-foot ceilings; State-of-the-art telecommunications to suit every need. Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: 6,000.Transportation: Only minutes from Miami International Airport.Attractions: Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road, South Beach Art Deco District, white sandy beaches, and renowned dining and entertainment.

42 Facilities & Destinations 2009 SuperBook

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Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide

FRESNO CONVENTION& ENTERTAINMENTCENTER848 M. Street Fresno, CA 93721(559) 445-8100; Fax: (559) 445-8110Director of Sales & Marketing:Claudia Arguelleswww.fresnoconventioncenter.com

“We’re Always at the Heart”Snapshot: Multi Facility Complex,including the elegant and spaciousFresno Convention Center ExhibitHall, the very functional Ernest ValdezHall, the historic William SaroyanTheatre and the newly-remodeledSelland Arena. Adjacent to the RobertA. Schoettler Conference Center.Meeting Space: 66,371-sq.-ft. FresnoExhibit Hall that can be used as threeseparate halls; column free space,11,628-sq.-ft. pre-function lobby; 30meeting rooms; Valdez Hall features32,000 sq. ft. of column free space and

seats 3,000 theater style or 2,400 ban-quet style; 11,000-seat Selland Arena;2,359-seat Saroyan Theatre, whoselobby can be used for 38-48 ExhibitBooths. Robert A. SchoettlerConference Center features a 13,129-square-foot ballroom that may be divid-ed into 7 salons for 50 to 340 people or90 8’ x 10’ booths.Venue Features: Exhibit Hall includeson-site, full-service catering kitchen;Executive conference room/show officewith built-in bar, multiple phone lines& T1 connections; voice and data tech-nology throughout; drive-in access fromcovered loading dock directly ontoexhibit floor.Transportation: Six miles from FresnoYosemite International Airport.Nearby Attractions: YosemiteNational Park, Grizzlies Baseball @ Chuckchansi Park.com.

CALIFORNIA

FAIRPLEX1101 W. McKinley Ave.Pomona, CA 91768(909) 623-3111; Fax: (909) 623-9599Director of Sales: Melissa Tapiawww.fairplex.com

“Southern California’s Event andEntertainment Center”Snapshot: Fairplex is SouthernCalifornia’s most diverse event locationattracting more than 3 million annualvisitors. Home of the L.A. County Fairsince 1922, the facility is also the premier location for consumer shows in Southern California, hosting morethan 350 events per year.Meeting Space: 11,000 sq. ft. of meet-ing space, including 11 meeting rooms;325,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space, withexhibit halls ranging from 10,000 sq. ft.to 105,000 sq. ft.; 6,400-sq.-ft.ballroom; 787-seat theater.Venue Features: Large, column-free,air-conditioned exhibit halls rangingfrom 33,600 sq. ft. to 105,000 sq. ft.;

Wifi capabilities; On-site newly reno-vated Sheraton Suites Fairplex hotel, a12-acre KOA/RV Park with 185 full-service sites and parking for more than30,000 vehicles.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:247 suites.Transportation: Fairplex is just 9 milesfrom Ontario International Airport and 45 freeway miles from LAX, andalso is easily accessible via three majorfreeways.Attractions: Retail establishments,restaurants, the 18-hole MountainMeadows Golf Course, cultural facili-ties, an art district, historic sites,nightlife and other amusements. Just ashort drive away are theaters, muse-ums, sports arenas, local mountainretreats, Disneyland, Knott’s BerryFarm, Universal Studios to the west,and Victoria Gardens’ al fresco shop-ping to the east.

CALIFORNIA

DAYTONA BEACH AREACVB / OCEAN CENTERCONVENTION COMPLEX126 East Orange Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114 1-800-544-0415 ext.129Fax: (386) 255-5478www.daytonabeachmeetings.comDirector of Convention SalesDaytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau: Sally Gardiner

Daytona Beach:Way More than A BeachSnapshot: Located in the heart of theDaytona Beach Resort Area and just400 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, theOcean Center is the area’s premiermeeting facility. The Ocean Centerrecently unveiled a $76-million expan-sion that increases its meeting andexhibit space to 205,536 square feet.Meeting Space: 45,945 sq. ft., includ-ing: 37 meeting rooms; 11,715-sq.-ftBallroom.

Exhibit Space: 167,980 sq. ft., includ-ing 94,770-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall.Arena: 46,000 sq. ft; 9,600 seats.Hotel Rooms: 13,000Transportation: 5 miles from DaytonaBeach International AirportAttractions: The Daytona Beach areais home to 23 miles of sparklingbeaches; top notch golf and tennisfacilities including LPGAInternational and the United StatesTennis Association’s Florida TennisCenter; Daytona Lagoon; Ocean WalkShoppes; several new spas and restau-rants, unique shopping, and an arrayof family and cultural attractions;Daytona International Speedway; theNews-Journal Center; the historicoceanfront Bandshell and OceanfrontPark; the Mary McLeod BethunePerforming Arts Center; PeabodyAuditorium.See Ad on Page 40

FLORIDA

THE GREATER FORTLAUDERDALE/BROWARD COUNTYCONVENTION CENTER1950 Eisenhower BlvdFort Lauderdale, FL 33316(954) 765-5900; Fax: 954 763-9551www.ftlauderdalecc.comAssistant General Manager: Terry Kuca

Premier Oceanside ConventionCenter Located In The Venice of America Snapshot: The 600,000-sq.ft. GreaterFort Lauderdale/Broward CountyConvention Center, one of the premierlarge meeting venues in the southeast, iseasily accessible, located just five minutesfrom the Fort Lauderdale-HollywoodInternational Airport. And therenowned five-star food and beveragedepartment, famous for its gourmet seated meals and selection of snack carts, ensure meetings at the Center are a success.

Meeting Space: 349,514 sq. ft. ofmeeting/exhibit space; 32 meetingrooms; Three Ballrooms, including30,000-sq.-ft. Grand FloridianBallroom, 20,000-sq.-ft. FloridianBallroom, and 10,000-sq.-ft. PalmBallroom; 250,486 sq. ft. of ExhibitSpace, including 64,887-sq.-ft.-MainExhibit Hall; 15,000-seat Theater.Venue Features: wifi; webcasting; CAT5; on-site kitchen; Breezin’ Java/CyberCafé which features eight permanentterminals and at least eight more plug-in table locations for laptops,Starbuck’s coffees, as well as specialtyfoods & beverages and TV monitorstuned to CNN/MSNBC news.Transportation: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: morethan 33,000 hotel rooms at a variety ofhotels, resorts and Superior SmallLodgings.Attractions: 23 miles of Blue Wave beaches, 300 miles of navigable inland waterways, downtown Arts &Entertainment district, 4,000 restaurants,50 golf courses, International SwimmingHall of Fame, Sawgrass Mills Mall.See ad on Cover 3

FLORIDA

MIAMI BEACHCONVENTION CENTER1901 Convention Center DriveMiami Beach, Fl 33139(305) 673-7311; Fax: (305) 673-7435www.MiamiBeachConvention.comDirector of Sales and Marketing: KayHollander

Life is Good, On the BeachSnapshot: Located in the heart ofSouth Beach, the Miami BeachConvention Center (MBCC) boastsover 1,000,000 sq. ft. of flexible space,including; over 500,000 sq. ft. of exhibitspace, over 100,000 sq. ft. of versatilepre-function area space and 70 meetingrooms comprised of 127,000 sq. ft.Amenities at the Miami BeachConvention Center include a businesscenter, board room, cyber café, boxoffices, concierge desks, concessionstands, show offices and a uniquelydesigned skywalk that features a centerpod with a buffet & cocktail lounge andan unrestricted view of all four exhibithalls. MBCC is home to major annual

trade and public shows such as: CruiseShipping Miami, South FloridaInternational Auto Show, MiamiInternational Boat Show (Largest inUnited States) and North America’smost important contemporary art fair,Art Basel Miami Beach.Meeting Space: 127,000 sq. ft., includ-ing 72 meeting rooms, 22,000-sq.-ft.Ballroom.Exhibition Space: 130,000-sq.-ft.Exhibit Hall( 502,000 sq. ft. of exhibitcenter in center.Technology: Wifi, VideoConferencing, Video Broadcasting,Webcasting.Venue Features: Business center; boardroom; cyber café; concierge desks; conces-sion stands; show offices; skywalk with anunrestricted view of all four halls.Guest Rooms: 2,000 hotel rooms with-in walking distance.Transportation: Miami InternationalAirport- 15 Minutes.Attractions: Atlantic Ocean; LincolnRoad Mall; Miami Beach Golf Club;Jungle Island; American AirlinesArena.See ad on page 43

FLORIDA

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49Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide

ORANGE COUNTYCONVENTION CENTERWest Concourse - 9800 International Drive;South Concourse - 9899 International Drive;North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd.Orlando, FL 32819(407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800Fax: (407) 685-9876www.occc.netSenior Director/Sales, Marketing,Event Management and ExhibitorServices: Yulita Osuba

“The Center of Hospitality”Snapshot: Orange County ConventionCenter (OCCC) ranks as the nation’ssecond largest convention facility, fea-turing 7 million sq. ft. of combinedmeeting and public space in tworemarkable facilities.The Center islocated in one of the most beautiful and entertaining places in the world—Orlando.Meeting/Exhibition space: 74 meetingrooms/235 breakout rooms; 62,182-sq.-ft. multi-purpose room; 2,643-seatChapin Theater and a 160-seat lecture

hall. 2.1 million sq. ft. of exhibit ionspace, 1.1 million sq. ft. of which iscontiguous; two 92,000 sq. foot generalassembly areas; three full-service restau-rants; 8 food courts; and three businesscenters.Venue Features: WIFI; interior plasmadirectional monitors; DMS directionalsigns on Universal Boulevard and onInternational Drive; DMS signs withvideo feed capabilities; in-house audio& intercom system; direct on-line showmanagement & exhibitor servicesordering; internet café set-ups; telecom& webcasting services; three coveredloading docks; 173 truck bays; and on-site parking for 6,227.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:Surrounded by 113,000 hotel rooms.Transportation: 12 miles to OrlandoInternational Airport (MCO).Attractions: Universal, SeaWorld,Walt Disney World; upscale shopping;10,000 fine dining seats.See ad on Page 47

FLORIDA

UNIVERSITY CENTERCONFERENCE CHICAGO525 S. State StreetChicago, IL 60605(312) 924-8000; Fax: (312) 924-8100www.universitycenter.comSales Manager: Mark CalderoneSales Associate: LaChandra Simon

Snapshot: This new property is conve-niently located in downtown Chicagoand offers a new and exciting environ-ment for large to small conferences atextremely competitive rates. It is a per-fect setting for your executive boardmeeting, seminar, workshop, trainingsession or retreat. During the summer,University Center offers full-serviceovernight accommodations.Overall Meeting Space: 15,000 sq. ft.Number of Meeting Rooms: 10 (meeting rooms range from 435 to2,400 sq.ft.).Exhibit Space: 2,400 sq. ft.

Theater Seating: 175Classroom Seating: 80Meeting Technology: Meeting spacesfeature white board, projection screenand has wireless internet access. Somemeeting rooms are equipped with anLCD projector, DVD player, VHSplayer, Copy Cam and one lavalieremicrophone. Audio/visual equipment,computer data projection and videoconferencing available.Food & Beverage: On premise cateringprovided; onsite restaurant.Lodging: 504 guest rooms.Amenities: During the summer,University Center offers full-serviceovernight accommodations, including useof the building’s recreation area, fitnesscenter, outdoor terrace and dining area.Guests also have the added benefit ofaccess to kitchen and laundry facilities.Transportation: 17 miles to O’HareAirport; steps away from all CTA train lines.See Ad on Page 43

ILLINOIS

P L A N N E RG U I D E S

Geraldine BordelonBATON ROGUE AREACONVENTION ANDVISITORS BUREAU� New 70,000-square-foot

exhibition hall� 9,000 hotel rooms� Arnold Palmer-designed The Bluffs

on Thompson Creek golf coursePage: 50

John RobertsonCHARLESTON CIVIC CENTER� 50,000-sq.-ft.Grand

Convention Hall� 4,000+hotel rooms � Tri-State Racetrack

& Gaming CenterPage: 57

SALINA BICENTENNIALCENTER800 The MidwayP.O. Box 1727Salina, KS 67402-1727(785) 826-7200; (888) 826-SHOWFax: (785) 826-7207Manager: Keith Rawlingswww.bicentennial.org

“Mid America’s Meeting Place”Snapshot: The Bicentennial Center inSalina, Kansas qualifies as one of themost versatile public assembly facilitiesin the Midwest.Meeting Space: More than 45,000 sq.ft. of meeting space; 18,360-sq.-ft.Exhibition Hall, a 120’ x 153’ configu-ration that divides neatly into 4 aisles oftrade show booths, with floor-to-ceilingmoveable walls and column-free space;accommodates 2,000 people with tem-porary seating and staging or 1,000 forsit-down banquet; 17 meeting rooms—Six of the rooms, designed for groups of50 or fewer, measure 19’6” x 27’ and canbe reconfigured into a single room large

enough for 150 people. Two otherrooms measure 20’ x 44’ and accommo-date up to 100 people each; versatileArena converts easily into an excellentauditorium, theater, sports facility, orexhibition hall with over 21,000 squarefeet of floor space (104’ x 203’), a 48-foot ceiling (maximum to steel), andseating for up to 7,500 guests andincludes two large concession areas,four large restrooms, team-style andplush dressing rooms, and a 14’ x 17’8”overhead-door entrance designed toaccommodate virtually any exhibitionequipment or vehicle.Venue Features: High Speed WirelessInternet; All rooms column free;Separate sound and air conditioningsystem for each meeting room;Excellent lighting and acoustics. Extracircuits are available for special stagingeffects.Convention/Guest Rooms:2,000 hotel rooms in the city of Salina.Transportation: five miles from SalinaAirport.Attractions: Smokey Hill Museum;Salina Art Center, Rolling HillsWildlife Adventure; downtown shopping district.

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61The SoutheastFacilities & Destinations


Snapshot: Located in the heart ofSouth Florida, in world-renownedMiami Beach, The Miami BeachConvention Center is conveniently situ-ated only minutes from the MiamiInternational Airport, downtownMiami and the Port of Miami.Spanning four city blocks of a sunnysouth Florida Beach, the center is within easy walking distance of the artdeco district and some of america’smost spectacular beaches.Meeting Space: 72 meeting rooms; a21,252-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 125,910 sq. ft.of meeting and function space on twolevels; 502,848-sq.-ft Total ExhibitSpace that can be configured as one

large expanse of exhibit space, or subdi-vided into four separate halls, includingHALL A - 119,970 sq. ft. HALL B -117,648 sq. ft., HALL C - 132,240 sq.ft., HALL D - 132,990 sq. ft.Venue Features: unlimited floor loadcapacity, and 35-foot ceilings; State-of-the-art telecommunications to suit every need.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:6,000.Transportation: only minutes fromMiami International Airport.Attractions: Ocean Drive, LincolnRoad, South Beach Art Deco District,white sandy beaches, and renowneddining and entertainment.

FLORIDA

ORANGE COUNTYCONVENTION CENTERWest Concourse - 9800 International Drive;South Concourse - 9899 International Drive;North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd.Orlando, FL 32819(407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800Fax: (407) 685-9876Senior Director/Sales, Marketing, Event Management & Exhibitor Services:Yulita Osubawww.occc.net

“The Center of Hospitality”Snapshot: Orange County ConventionCenter (OCCC) ranks as the nation’ssecond largest convention facility,featuring 7 million sq. ft. of combinedmeeting and public space in tworemarkable facilities and provides a totalof 2.1 million square feet of exhibitionspace with adjacent covered dockaccess. It is located in one of the mostbeautiful and entertaining places in theworld, Orlando.Meeting/Exhibition space: 7 millionsq. ft of combined meeting and public

space, including 74 meeting rooms and235 breakout rooms; 62,182-sq.-ft. ball-room 2.1 million sq. ft of exhibit space,2,643-seat Chapin Theater and 160-seat Lecture Hall; 3 full-service restau-rants/8 food courts; 4 business centers.Venue Features: WIFI; interior plasmadirectional monitors; DMS directionalsigns on Universal Boulevard and onInternational Drive; DMS signs withvideo feed capabilities; in-house audio& intercom system; direct on-line showmanagement & exhibitor servicesordering; internet café set-ups; telecom& webcasting services; 3 covered loading docks; 173 truck bays; On-siteparking for 6,227.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:Surrounded by 113,000 hotel rooms.Transportation: 12 miles to OrlandoInternational Airport (MCO).Attractions: Universal, SeaWorld, WaltDisney World; upscale shopping;10,000 fine dining seats.

FLORIDA

PRIME F. OSBORN IIICONVENTION CENTER1000 Water StreetJacksonville, FL 32204(904) 630-4000; Fax: (904) 630-4029Facility Director: Jim Pritchardwww.jaxevents.com

Snapshot: When it was built in 1919,Jacksonville Terminal was the railroadgateway to Florida. Now it is complete-ly restored and renovated. Where thetrains once ran on time, boat shows,conventions, trade shows, banquets, andmeetings now run like clockwork. With265,000 square feet of space, the PrimeOsborn Convention Center is largeenough and versatile enough to accom-modate gatherings of virtually any size,small or large.Meeting Space: 156,184 sq. ft. of totalmeeting space; 78,500 sq. ft of contigu-ous exhibit space; 100,000 sq. ft. total:can fit 450 10x10’ booths in contiguousspace, 550 total; 2 Executive

Boardrooms and VIP Suite; 19,000-sq.-ft. pre-function area, 11,000-sq.-ft.-terrace; 31,500-sq.-ft.. fenced grassPavilion; 10,000-sq.-ft. Grand Lobbywith 75’ vaulted ceiling.Venue Features: Internet and wifi;state-of-the-art audio and visual sys-tems available throughout the center;fully equipped, 5,000-sq.-ft. kitchencapable of gourmet service for over3,000 guests; the center has on-siteparking for 860 Parking spaces cars,with 4,000 additional spaces within easy walking distance.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:Within five miles of over 1,500 hotelrooms; 22,425 in the Northeast FloridaRegion.Transportation: 20 minutes away fromJacksonville International Airport.Nearby Attractions: JacksonvilleLanding; Zoo; St. Augustine; Beaches.

FLORIDA

DAYTONA BEACH AREACVB / OCEAN CENTERCONVENTION COMPLEX101 N. Atlantic Avenue Daytona Beach, FL 32118 (800) 858-6444; (386) 254-4500Fax: (386) 254-4512www.oceancenter.com Director of Convention SalesDaytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau: Sally Gardiner

Daytona Beach:Way More than A BeachSnapshot: Located in the heart of theDaytona Beach Resort Area and just400 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, theOcean Center is the area’s premiermeeting facility. The Ocean Center iscurrently undergoing a $76-millionexpansion that will nearly triple its size.Meeting Space: 205,536 sq. ft.,including: 37 meeting rooms;11,715-sq.-ft Ballroom.


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ORANGE COUNTYCONVENTION CENTERWest Concourse - 9800 International Drive;South Concourse - 9899 International Drive;North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd.Orlando, FL 32819(407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800Fax: (407) 685-9876www.occc.netSenior Director/Sales, Marketing,Event Management and ExhibitorServices: Yulita Osuba

“The Center of Hospitality”Snapshot: Orange County ConventionCenter (OCCC) ranks as the nation’ssecond largest convention facility, fea-turing 7 million sq. ft. of combinedmeeting and public space in tworemarkable facilities.The Center islocated in one of the most beautiful and entertaining places in the world—Orlando.Meeting/Exhibition space: 74 meetingrooms/235 breakout rooms; 62,182-sq.-ft. multi-purpose room; 2,643-seatChapin Theater and a 160-seat lecture

hall. 2.1 million sq. ft. of exhibit ionspace, 1.1 million sq. ft. of which iscontiguous; two 92,000 sq. foot generalassembly areas; three full-service restau-rants; 8 food courts; and three businesscenters.Venue Features: WIFI; interior plasmadirectional monitors; DMS directionalsigns on Universal Boulevard and onInternational Drive; DMS signs withvideo feed capabilities; in-house audio& intercom system; direct on-line showmanagement & exhibitor servicesordering; internet café set-ups; telecom& webcasting services; three coveredloading docks; 173 truck bays; and on-site parking for 6,227.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:Surrounded by 113,000 hotel rooms.Transportation: 12 miles to OrlandoInternational Airport (MCO).Attractions: Universal, SeaWorld,Walt Disney World; upscale shopping;10,000 fine dining seats.See ad on Page 47

FLORIDA

UNIVERSITY CENTERCONFERENCE CHICAGO525 S. State StreetChicago, IL 60605(312) 924-8000; Fax: (312) 924-8100www.universitycenter.comSales Manager: Mark CalderoneSales Associate: LaChandra Simon

Snapshot: This new property is conve-niently located in downtown Chicagoand offers a new and exciting environ-ment for large to small conferences atextremely competitive rates. It is a per-fect setting for your executive boardmeeting, seminar, workshop, trainingsession or retreat. During the summer,University Center offers full-serviceovernight accommodations.Overall Meeting Space: 15,000 sq. ft.Number of Meeting Rooms: 10 (meeting rooms range from 435 to2,400 sq.ft.).Exhibit Space: 2,400 sq. ft.

Theater Seating: 175Classroom Seating: 80Meeting Technology: Meeting spacesfeature white board, projection screenand has wireless internet access. Somemeeting rooms are equipped with anLCD projector, DVD player, VHSplayer, Copy Cam and one lavalieremicrophone. Audio/visual equipment,computer data projection and videoconferencing available.Food & Beverage: On premise cateringprovided; onsite restaurant.Lodging: 504 guest rooms.Amenities: During the summer,University Center offers full-serviceovernight accommodations, including useof the building’s recreation area, fitnesscenter, outdoor terrace and dining area.Guests also have the added benefit ofaccess to kitchen and laundry facilities.Transportation: 17 miles to O’HareAirport; steps away from all CTA train lines.See Ad on Page 43

ILLINOIS

P L A N N E RG U I D E S

Geraldine BordelonBATON ROGUE AREACONVENTION ANDVISITORS BUREAU� New 70,000-square-foot

exhibition hall� 9,000 hotel rooms� Arnold Palmer-designed The Bluffs

on Thompson Creek golf coursePage: 50

John RobertsonCHARLESTON CIVIC CENTER� 50,000-sq.-ft.Grand

Convention Hall� 4,000+hotel rooms � Tri-State Racetrack

& Gaming CenterPage: 57

SALINA BICENTENNIALCENTER800 The MidwayP.O. Box 1727Salina, KS 67402-1727(785) 826-7200; (888) 826-SHOWFax: (785) 826-7207Manager: Keith Rawlingswww.bicentennial.org

“Mid America’s Meeting Place”Snapshot: The Bicentennial Center inSalina, Kansas qualifies as one of themost versatile public assembly facilitiesin the Midwest.Meeting Space: More than 45,000 sq.ft. of meeting space; 18,360-sq.-ft.Exhibition Hall, a 120’ x 153’ configu-ration that divides neatly into 4 aisles oftrade show booths, with floor-to-ceilingmoveable walls and column-free space;accommodates 2,000 people with tem-porary seating and staging or 1,000 forsit-down banquet; 17 meeting rooms—Six of the rooms, designed for groups of50 or fewer, measure 19’6” x 27’ and canbe reconfigured into a single room large

enough for 150 people. Two otherrooms measure 20’ x 44’ and accommo-date up to 100 people each; versatileArena converts easily into an excellentauditorium, theater, sports facility, orexhibition hall with over 21,000 squarefeet of floor space (104’ x 203’), a 48-foot ceiling (maximum to steel), andseating for up to 7,500 guests andincludes two large concession areas,four large restrooms, team-style andplush dressing rooms, and a 14’ x 17’8”overhead-door entrance designed toaccommodate virtually any exhibitionequipment or vehicle.Venue Features: High Speed WirelessInternet; All rooms column free;Separate sound and air conditioningsystem for each meeting room;Excellent lighting and acoustics. Extracircuits are available for special stagingeffects.Convention/Guest Rooms:2,000 hotel rooms in the city of Salina.Transportation: five miles from SalinaAirport.Attractions: Smokey Hill Museum;Salina Art Center, Rolling HillsWildlife Adventure; downtown shopping district.

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61The SoutheastFacilities & Destinations


Snapshot: Located in the heart ofSouth Florida, in world-renownedMiami Beach, The Miami BeachConvention Center is conveniently situ-ated only minutes from the MiamiInternational Airport, downtownMiami and the Port of Miami.Spanning four city blocks of a sunnysouth Florida Beach, the center is within easy walking distance of the artdeco district and some of america’smost spectacular beaches.Meeting Space: 72 meeting rooms; a21,252-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 125,910 sq. ft.of meeting and function space on twolevels; 502,848-sq.-ft Total ExhibitSpace that can be configured as one

large expanse of exhibit space, or subdi-vided into four separate halls, includingHALL A - 119,970 sq. ft. HALL B -117,648 sq. ft., HALL C - 132,240 sq.ft., HALL D - 132,990 sq. ft.Venue Features: unlimited floor loadcapacity, and 35-foot ceilings; State-of-the-art telecommunications to suit every need.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:6,000.Transportation: only minutes fromMiami International Airport.Attractions: Ocean Drive, LincolnRoad, South Beach Art Deco District,white sandy beaches, and renowneddining and entertainment.

FLORIDA

ORANGE COUNTYCONVENTION CENTERWest Concourse - 9800 International Drive;South Concourse - 9899 International Drive;North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd.Orlando, FL 32819(407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800Fax: (407) 685-9876Senior Director/Sales, Marketing, Event Management & Exhibitor Services:Yulita Osubawww.occc.net

“The Center of Hospitality”Snapshot: Orange County ConventionCenter (OCCC) ranks as the nation’ssecond largest convention facility,featuring 7 million sq. ft. of combinedmeeting and public space in tworemarkable facilities and provides a totalof 2.1 million square feet of exhibitionspace with adjacent covered dockaccess. It is located in one of the mostbeautiful and entertaining places in theworld, Orlando.Meeting/Exhibition space: 7 millionsq. ft of combined meeting and public

space, including 74 meeting rooms and235 breakout rooms; 62,182-sq.-ft. ball-room 2.1 million sq. ft of exhibit space,2,643-seat Chapin Theater and 160-seat Lecture Hall; 3 full-service restau-rants/8 food courts; 4 business centers.Venue Features: WIFI; interior plasmadirectional monitors; DMS directionalsigns on Universal Boulevard and onInternational Drive; DMS signs withvideo feed capabilities; in-house audio& intercom system; direct on-line showmanagement & exhibitor servicesordering; internet café set-ups; telecom& webcasting services; 3 covered loading docks; 173 truck bays; On-siteparking for 6,227.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:Surrounded by 113,000 hotel rooms.Transportation: 12 miles to OrlandoInternational Airport (MCO).Attractions: Universal, SeaWorld, WaltDisney World; upscale shopping;10,000 fine dining seats.

FLORIDA

PRIME F. OSBORN IIICONVENTION CENTER1000 Water StreetJacksonville, FL 32204(904) 630-4000; Fax: (904) 630-4029Facility Director: Jim Pritchardwww.jaxevents.com

Snapshot: When it was built in 1919,Jacksonville Terminal was the railroadgateway to Florida. Now it is complete-ly restored and renovated. Where thetrains once ran on time, boat shows,conventions, trade shows, banquets, andmeetings now run like clockwork. With265,000 square feet of space, the PrimeOsborn Convention Center is largeenough and versatile enough to accom-modate gatherings of virtually any size,small or large.Meeting Space: 156,184 sq. ft. of totalmeeting space; 78,500 sq. ft of contigu-ous exhibit space; 100,000 sq. ft. total:can fit 450 10x10’ booths in contiguousspace, 550 total; 2 Executive

Boardrooms and VIP Suite; 19,000-sq.-ft. pre-function area, 11,000-sq.-ft.-terrace; 31,500-sq.-ft.. fenced grassPavilion; 10,000-sq.-ft. Grand Lobbywith 75’ vaulted ceiling.Venue Features: Internet and wifi;state-of-the-art audio and visual sys-tems available throughout the center;fully equipped, 5,000-sq.-ft. kitchencapable of gourmet service for over3,000 guests; the center has on-siteparking for 860 Parking spaces cars,with 4,000 additional spaces within easy walking distance.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:Within five miles of over 1,500 hotelrooms; 22,425 in the Northeast FloridaRegion.Transportation: 20 minutes away fromJacksonville International Airport.Nearby Attractions: JacksonvilleLanding; Zoo; St. Augustine; Beaches.

FLORIDA

DAYTONA BEACH AREACVB / OCEAN CENTERCONVENTION COMPLEX101 N. Atlantic Avenue Daytona Beach, FL 32118 (800) 858-6444; (386) 254-4500Fax: (386) 254-4512www.oceancenter.com Director of Convention SalesDaytona Beach Area Convention and Visitors Bureau: Sally Gardiner

Daytona Beach:Way More than A BeachSnapshot: Located in the heart of theDaytona Beach Resort Area and just400 feet from the Atlantic Ocean, theOcean Center is the area’s premiermeeting facility. The Ocean Center iscurrently undergoing a $76-millionexpansion that will nearly triple its size.Meeting Space: 205,536 sq. ft.,including: 37 meeting rooms;11,715-sq.-ft Ballroom.


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MISSISSIPPI COAST COLISEUM AND CONVENTION CENTER2350 Beach BoulevardBiloxi, Mississippi 39531(228) 896-6699www.gulfcoast.orgDirector of Sales: Crystal Johnson

“Relax. It’s the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”Snapshot: One of the few beachfront convention centers in North America, the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center offers over 450,000 sq. ft. of newly expanded and renovated exhibit and meeting space. After the meeting, your delegates can enjoy gam-ing, golf, dining and shopping. Meeting Space: 22 meeting/breakout rooms; 57,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom.Exhibit Space: 129,500 sq. ft. Theater: 9,000-seats; 30,000 sq. ft.

Technology: 94 Wireless Access Points; Digital and Analog Lines; 3G Technology; Peer-to-Peer Networking; Web Browsing/Internet; Webcasting; 11 Manned Switches.Lodging: 5,000 committable rooms; 18,000 total rooms. Destination: 11 Casino Resorts; 26 miles of White Sand Beach; Water sports and Beach Rentals Sports Complex; Equestrian FacilitiesTransportation: Gulfport/Biloxi International Airport is 12 miles from facility.Attractions: Emeril’s Gulf Coast Fish House & other Celebrity Chef restaurants; Mary Mahoney’s featured in John Grisham novels); Signature Golf Courses designed by Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Fazio, and Jerry Pate; Entertainment at Casinos and Coliseum Arena; Frank Gehry-designed Ohr-O’Keefe Museum; Walter Anderson Museum; Charter Fishing Fleet; Sailing on Biloxi Schooners; Water Parks; Shrimping Tour.See ad on page 35

MIssIssIPPI

Puerto rico convention center

Smooth

CONVENTION CENTER FACILITIES

Total Space: 580,000 gross sq ft 53,882 gross sq m

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

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

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

Public Circulation and Concourses: 96,000 sq ft / 8,928 sq m

Support, Service and Administration: 200,000 sq ft / 18,580 sq m

EXHIBIT HALL – level 1

Total Exhibit Space: 152,700 sq ft / 14,186 sq m

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

Dimensions: 268 ft / 82 m x 574 ft / 175 m

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

Ceiling Height: 30 ft / 9.1 m

Largest Access Door: 22 ft / 6.7 m wide x 27 ft / 8.2 m H

MEETING ROOMS – level 2

Meeting Rooms: 15 individual rooms that subdivide into 28 breakout rooms

Level 1: Four rooms that subdivide into 10 rooms

Level 2: Eleven rooms that subdivide into 18 rooms

Capacity: From 80 to 500 attendees using theater

Ceiling Height: Seven at 15 ft / 4.6 m and eight at 16 ft / 4.9 m

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

BALLROOM – level 3

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

Dimensions: 145 ft / 44.2 m x 278 ft / 84.7 m

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

Ceiling Height: From 26 ft / 7.9 m to 45 ft / 13.7 m

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

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

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

For more information call: 1-800-214-o420email [email protected] or visit www.prconvention.com

3541_advertorial_specs_FDPG09_8.1 1 11/17/09 4:04:32 PM

range of hotels & venues

convenient access

state-of-the-art technology

PRCB at your service

no passport required for U.S. citizens

budget friendly

P R C O N V E N T I O N . C O M

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

The Puerto Rico Convention Center has matured quickly in just five years. It is 580,000 square

feet of everything you need. Visit us and see why so many important meetings

have already happened here. Call 800-214-0420.

Managed by SMG

don’t mistake high designfor high cost.

Smooth bottom line

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

new york state’s only one-stop convention facility

r o c h e s t e r r i v e r s i d e c o n v e n t i o n c e n t e r

n e w y o r k

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

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

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

Destination FeaturesRochester is the northern gateway to the magnificent Finger Lakes region with its rolling hills, lush valleys and 11 namesake lakes. It is also a region becoming famous for its more than 100 vineyards, excellent wines and numerous “wine trails.” With the recent addition of the New York Wine and Culinary Center in nearby Canandaigua, the wineries and farmer’s markets of the Finger Lakes region offer delegates meeting in Rochester wonderful day trip options for pre- or post-conference enjoyment. Distance to AirportThe Greater Rochester International Airport—150 flights daily—is an easy, stress-free, 10-minute drive from the Rochester Riverside Convention Center’s front door.


p u e r t o r i c o

200 Convention Boulevard, San Juan, PR 00907

(787) 993-3500; (800) 325-3535 • Fax: (787) 993-3525

www.sheraton.com/puertoricoconventioncenter

Located in the Puerto Rico Convention District between the airport and historic Old San Juan, the new Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino offers the perfect

retreat for your next association gathering. The hotel is ideally situated to offer both convenience and an

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

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

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

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

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

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

for unforgettable fun and exciteMent, you only need to take a short stroll froM your rooM.

s h e r at o n p u e r t o r i c o c o n v e n t i o n c e n t e r

h o t e l & c a s i n o

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

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

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

The Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino invites you to come experience a new approach to Caribbean events. Complete an RFP online at sheraton.com/puertoricoconventioncenter or call (787) 993-3500.

Mixing business with pleasure is invited. The new Sheraton

Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino, opening November 2009. Where you’ll

find 35,000 square feet for meeting and achieving, as well as a world-class casino,

rejuvenating spa, refreshing outdoor pool, numerous dining experiences and fabulous

shopping in one exotic locale. You don’t just stay here. You belong.

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

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

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1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451

(757) 385-4700; (800) 700-7702 Fax: (757) 437-4747

www.vbmeetings.com

Virginia Beach is an affordable meeting destination, offering first-class amenities in a metropolitan coastal environment. Just blocks from where the sand meets the sea, meeting-goers

will discover the 500,000-sq.-ft. Virginia Beach Convention Center. Fully opened in 2007 and serviced by a seasoned, award-winning staff offering competitive rates, the facility features a 150,000-sq.-ft., column-free exhibit hall, 31,000-sq.-ft. ballroom, 29,000-sq.-ft. of meeting space and 2,230 free parking spaces.

This year-round city boasts 12,000 hotel rooms citywide and 3,500 committable rooms within a two-mile radius of the Convention Center. Fall, winter and spring offer additional value with a mild climate and a multitude of diverse destination amenities. New hotel properties include the oceanfront SpringHill Suites by Marriott and Hampton Inn, and the Westin Town Center. Virginia Beach recently approved a master plan for new development in the resort area. Upcoming projects include a convention center headquarters hotel, a new entertainment center and a vibrant new corridor connecting the convention center and entertainment.

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

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

offering first-class aMenities in a Metropolitan coastal environMent.

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

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

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


MONONA TERRACE CONVENTION CENTEROne John Nolen DriveMadison, WI 53703(608) 261-4100; Fax: (608) 261-4049www.mononaterrace.comSales/Event Services Manager: Laura Cornell, CMP

“Where business and inspiration meet.”Snapshot: The Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center is located in heart of Madison’s vibrant downtown on the shore of Lake Monona. This spectacular multi-level structure features public promenades, meeting rooms with striking lake views, extensive rooftop gardens and the attached Hilton Madison.Meeting Space: 250,000-sq.-ft., 5-level facility; 85,000 sq. ft. of meeting/exhibit space; 23 meeting rooms; 40,000-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 5,540-sq.-ft. Lecture Hall, seating 320; 14,000-sq.-

ft Ballroom. The 68,000 sq. ft. of rooftop gardens can be reserved for events. Venue Features: Wireless access is available throughout Monona Terrace with excellent coverage; Monona Terrace is one of only a handful of convention centers offering Internet 2 access; Special amenities include a greeter at the main entrance to assist guests, business center, gift shop, art/ exhibit area and expansive areas for registration and information needs. Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: 240-room attached Hilton Madison, 1,000 rooms within walking distance of Monona Terrace, more than 8,000 hotel rooms are available to groups in Madison.Transportation: Madison is accessible by air from every major metro area in the country and is served by the Dane County Regional Airport. Monona Terrace is a 10-minute drive from the airport. Attractions: The State Capitol build-ing. Museum Mile offers six fascinating museums, plus several art galleries for browsers and collectors alike. State Street – Madison’s famed pedes-trian mall.

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NORFOLK CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU232 East Main Street, Norfolk, VA 23510(757) 664-6620; (800) 368-3097Fax: (757) 622-3663www.visitnorfolktoday.comVice President of Sales and Marketing:Donna Allen

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

And, just blocks away is Norfolk Scope Arena - with an additional 85,000 square-feet of meeting space. The Norfolk International Airport area offers a quality selection of hotels including the Hilton Norfolk Airport, Holiday Inn Select Norfolk Airport, American’s Best Value Inn, Military Circle, Days Inn, Ramada Norfolk Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott and the Hampton Inn and Suites. The Lake Wright area is 5 miles from the airport and includes Quality Suites and Sleep Inn hotels.Technology: Wired and wireless high-speed Internet access in all public areas, guest rooms and meeting rooms.Hotel Rooms: Approximately 5,000 city-wide. Transportation: Norfolk International Airport.Attractions: MacArthur Center Mall, Chrysler Museum of Art, Hermitage Foundation Museum, Hunter House Victorian Museum, MacArthur Memorial, Norfolk Tides AAA Baseball at Harbor Park, Schooner Virginia, The Norfolk History Museum at the Willoughby- Baylor House, Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise, Virginia Zoological Park, Norfolk Admirals AHL Hockey.See Ad on Page 36

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OKLAHOMA CITy CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU189 West Sheridan, Oklahoma City, OK 73102(405) 297-8912; (800) 225-5652Fax: (405) 297-8888www.visitokc.comDirector of Convention Sales & Services: Elizabeth Richardson (405) 297-8952 • [email protected]

Snapshot: Oklahoma City has it all—from the historic Old West in Stockyards City to the vibrant energy of Bricktown, the city’s lively enter-tainment district. Our museums hold artistic treasures and our sports venues have something for everyone. Choices abound for an experience you’ll cherish. Main Meeting Venue: Cox Convention Center (405-602-8500; www.coxcon-ventioncenter.com) — 100,000 sq. ft. Exhibit Hall can be divided into 8 smaller halls or combined with the Arena floor for 132,000 sq. ft. of total

exhibit space; 105,000 sq. ft. Meeting Room complex with 21 meeting rooms and a 25,000 sq. ft. Ballroom; 15,000-seat Arena. General Manager - Gary Dejardins.Venue Features: wireless internet service and access speeds up to one Gigabit available; four (4) FREE pre-function wi-fi zones; meeting rooms and ballroom equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment; SMG Video Conferencing Services available. Hotel Rooms: 1,680 rooms in Downtown Oklahoma City and 15,000 citywide.Transportation: 10 miles/15 minutes from Will Rogers World Airport.Nearby Attractions: Bricktown Dining & Entertainment District—a vibrant urban neighborhood with a variety of new canal-side restaurants, clubs, music venues and attractions, OKC National Memorial & Museum, Oklahoma City Museum of Art; Myriad Botanical Gardens; AT&T Bricktown Ballpark; Ford Center; Civic Center Music Hall; Oklahoma City Zoo; National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. See Ads on Pages 37,39

OklahOMa

ORANGE COUNTy CONVENTION CENTERWest Concourse - 9800 International Drive;South Concourse - 9899 International Drive;North Concourse - 9400 Universal Blvd.Orlando, FL 32819(407) 685-9800; (800) 345-9800Fax: (407) 685-9876www.occc.netSenior Director/Sales, Marketing,Event Management and ExhibitorServices: Yulita Osuba

“The Center of Hospitality”Snapshot: Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) ranks as the nation’s second largest convention facility, featuring 7 million sq. ft. of combined meeting and public space in two remarkable facilities.The Center is located in one of the most beautiful and entertaining places in the world—Orlando. Meeting/Exhibition space: 74 meeting rooms/235 breakout rooms; 62,182-sq.-

ft. multi-purpose room; 2,643-seat Chapin Theater and a 160-seat lecture hall. 2.1 million sq. ft. of exhibition space, 1.1 million sq. ft. of which is contiguous; two 92,000 sq. foot general assembly areas; three full-service restaurants; 8 food courts; and three business centers. Venue Features: WIFI; interior plas-ma directional monitors; DMS direc-tional signs on Universal Boulevard and on International Drive; DMS signs with video feed capabilities; in-house audio & intercom system; direct on-line show management & exhibitor services ordering; internet café set-ups; telecom & webcasting services; three covered loading docks; 173 truck bays; and on-site parking for 6,227. Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms: Surrounded by 113,000 hotel rooms. Transportation: 12 miles to Orlando International Airport (MCO). Attractions: Universal Orlando® Resort and Walt Disney World® Resort; SeaWorld - Orlando; upscale shopping; 10,000 fine dining seats. See ad on Page 41

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PROVIDENCE WARWICK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU144 Westminster StreetProvidence, RI 02903Phone: (401) 456-0200; Fax: (401) 273-7046www.GoProvidence.comSenior Vice President: Neil R. Schriever

Providence: The Creative CapitalSnapshot: The Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau (PWCVB) books meetings, conven-tions, trade shows and events of any size in Providence, Warwick, and sur-rounding areas. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist in ensuring a successful event.Largest Meeting Venue: Rhode Island Convention & Entertainment Complex, which includes the RI Convention Center with 137,000 sq. ft. of total exhibit space, the 13,000-seat Dunkin’ Donuts Center, and the 1,900-

seat VMA Arts & Cultural Center.Marketing Services: The PWCVB works closely with meeting planners to help boost attendance through targeted e-mail blasts, postcard mailings, reciprocal Web links, pre-promotion at prior year’s meeting, customized interactive maps, access to a stock photo library, attendee Web site/microsite, collateral materi-als, welcome banners throughout the city, and welcome signage in member establishments.Hotel Rooms: 2,200 rooms within one mile of RICC, 5,500 in Greater Providence area.Destination: Providence, Rhode Island is brimming with rich his-tory, natural beauty, and stunning architecture. The city’s compact downtown area—where the Rhode Island Convention Center is locat-ed—makes it an extremely conve-nient and walkable city, with hotels, great restaurants, and stellar shop-ping all within blocks of each other. Providence is easily accessible by air, rail or highway, and about 25 percent of the United States’ population lives within 500 miles of the city. See ad on page 43

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PUERTO RICO CONVENTION CENTEREdificio Ochoa, 500 Tanca, Suite 402San Juan, PR 00901(800) 214-0420; Fax: (787) 725-2133www.prconvention.comAssociate Vice President Sales: Rosa M. Luke, [email protected]

“Smooth”Snapshot: At 580,000 sq. ft., the award-winning Puerto Rico Convention Center is the Caribbean’s largest and most technologically-advanced meeting facility. It offers budget friendly ameni-ties, beautiful surroundings, stunning views, and world renowned service to make your experience a smooth one.Meeting Space: 36,200 sq. ft. of meeting space, including 15 meeting rooms on two levels, divisible into 28 sections; 4 on level one and 11 on level two; 39,500-sq.-ft. Ballroom, which subdivides into two sections and can seat 3,934 theater style; 1,900 banquet

style, 4,158 reception style and 2,616 classroom style; 152,700 sq. ft. of exhibit space, including one Exhibit Hall which subdivides into three halls: 40,900 sq. ft., 40,500 sq. ft. and 71,300 sq. ft.; 16,965-seat theater.Venue Features: Wireless (Wifi) in hot spot areas; Meeting rooms with High Speed Internet and Fluorescent Systems with Dimming Capabilities; Column-free Ballroom; Business Center; Floor Boxes with Track Lighting, Water, Air, Voice and Data Outlets; Telephone Access in the Meeting rooms, Ballroom and Exhibit Hall.Convention/Guest Rooms: Over 7,000 at a short distance.Transportation: seven miles from Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport.Attractions: Centrally located in San Juan, the gateway to all that Puerto Rico has to offer. Directly adjacent to Old San Juan, business and resorts hotels, res-taurants and night life. The centerpiece to a 113-acre waterfront development featuring hotels, walkways, fountains and restaurants among others.See Ad on Page 45

PuERTO RICO

RHODE ISLAND CONVENTION & ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEXOne Sabin StreetProvidence, RI 02903Phone: (401) 458-6000; Fax: (401) 458-6500www.riconvention.comSenior Director of Sales and Marketing:John J. McGinn, CEM

Snapshot: The Rhode Island Convention & Entertainment Complex, which includes the Rhode Island Convention Center (RICC), the Dunkin’ Donuts Center (Dunk) arena, and the Veterans Memorial Auditorium Arts & Cultural Center (VMA), is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Providence. With ample meeting and event space, including the elegant Rotunda Room offering spectacular city views, the RICC is committed to providing an exceptional event experience.

RICC Features: 100,000 contiguous sq. ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 137,000 sq. ft. Total Exhibit Space; 23 meeting rooms and pre-function space; 20,000 sq. ft Ballroom; accommodations for groups of 10-5,000; two parking garages.DDC Features: Recently renovated and located adjacent to RICC; sky-bridge connected to the RICC; assembly seating for up to 13,000; luxury suites for groups up to 40; five hospitality and meeting rooms.VMA Features: More than 1,900 seats; listed on the National Register of Historic Places; hospitality and meet-ing space available; easily accessible.Hotel Rooms: 5,500 in the Greater Providence area, with 2,200 within one mile of Complex.Transportation: T.F. Green Airport is 8.5 miles from RICC.Attractions: Bank of America Skating Center; Culinary Arts Museum at JWU; Festival Ballet Providence; Providence Bruins (AHL Affiliate of Boston Bruins); Providence College Friars Basketball; Providence Performing Arts Center; Providence Place mall, RI Philharmonic; RI School of Design Museum; Trinity Repertory Company; WaterFire Providence. See ad on Page 3

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ROCHESTER RIVERSIDE CONVENTION CENTER123 East Main StreetRochester, NY 14564 (585) 232-7200; Fax: (585) 232-1510www.rrcc.comExecutive Director: Joseph A. Floreano, CFE

“Do it better at the Rochester Riverside where you and your event are always the center of our attention!”Snapshot: Conveniently located in the heart of Rochester, N.Y., the Rochester Riverside Convention Center enjoys a scenic setting on the Genesee River with outdoor patios and balconies providing wonderful views. It also offers the conve-nience of enclosed walkway connections to large hotels and parking garages. Meeting Space: 100,000 sq. ft of meet-ing/exhibition space; 22 meeting rooms; 10,028-sq.-ft. Ballroom; 49,275-sq.-ft. Main Exhibit Hall; 5,000-seat Theater.

Venue Features: Dedicated internet connection over Fiber Optics; wire-less access throughout facility.Convention/Hotel Rooms: More than 1,100 rooms connect with the Rochester Riverside Convention Center—Rochester Plaza, 336-room Hyatt Regency, which recently com-pleted a $16-million renovation of its facility and Radisson Hotel Rochester Riverside, which just completed a $6-million renovation. Transportation: 10-minute drive to Greater Rochester International Airport.Attractions: Several entertainment dis-tricts surround the Rochester Riverside with restaurants and cafés, coffee houses and pubs, dance clubs and music halls, theatres and more; Frontier Field; Marina Auto Stadium; restored his-toric Armory; George Eastman House International Museum of Photography and Film; Susan B. Anthony House; National Museum of Play; National Toy Hall of Fame; Boardwalk at Lake Ontario; more than 100 vineyards and numerous “wine trails”; New york Wine and Culinary Center. See ad on page 47

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F&D: What are biggest changes in the industry since you started?

KK: Even greater professionalism. Not many people that I knew pursued their CMP 20 years ago. Now, it seems that everyone I talk to sees the value of the CMP designation and are even pursuing it after many years in the business. I just got mine three years ago, mostly to set an example for my staff (at my previous association), whom I was requiring it as part of their professional development.

F&D: Has CMP certification been affected by the economy?

KK: I think more people are paying for it out of their own pockets either because their company has cut down on training/professional development budgets or they are out of a job. That’s why we are doing everything we can to help by instituting a payment plan for the exam fees. A candidate can pay in three installments. About 20 percent of candidates took advantage of it with the spring exam. We plan to continue offering the payment plan indefinitely.

F&D: You’ve been part of the Green Initiatives Program at CIC, especially the APEX/ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) Green Meeting and Events Standards. How would you assess this program so far?

KK: We have had hundreds of volunteers working on these standards over the past 18 months. They will be going through the balloting process with ASTM this fall and we hope to have them finished by the end of the year. I am so excited about this new APEX standard.

F&D: How can a convention organizer best take advantage of the green practices of a convention center that they book?

KK: Start early in articulating their expectations and needs. So many convention centers are already implementing green practices so in those cases it, won’t be too difficult. The challenge for planners will be if the venue is not green, getting those practices in place for their meeting. Once we have the green standards completed, the planner can use them in the RFP and selection process so the expectations are in the contract.

Continued from page 13

Spotlight Feature: Karen Kotowski

SHERATON PUERTO RICO CONVENTION CENTER HOTEL & CASINO200 Convention BoulevardSan Juan, PR 00907(787) 993-3500; (800) 325-3535Fax: (787) 993-3525www.sheraton.com/ puertoricoconventioncenterDirector of Sales & Marketing: Willie Chin

You don’t just stay here. You belongSnapshot: Plan your event in para-dise. Opening in November 2009 and superbly situated amidst the Puerto Rico Convention Center District facing the Bay of San Juan, the Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino will be a truly remarkable land-mark in the district. Our hotel will be just 10 minutes from the international airport and five minutes from historic Old San Juan. The Convention Center is imme-

diately adjacent and the San Juan Bay Marina is easily accessible as well.Meeting Space: 35,000 sq. ft., includ-ing 9 breakout rooms; 16,290-sq.-ft. Ballroom; (150,000 sq. ft. available at adjacent Puerto Rico Convention Center); 1,480 Theater Seating.Technology: Audiovisual equipment; High-speed Internet access; 24-hour Business Center.Venue Features: Spa; Casino; Fitness center; Professional event staff; on-site catering team; (580,000 square feet of function space in the adjacent Puerto Rico Convention Center).Lodging: 503 Guest Rooms.Distance to nearest airport: 7 miles from (SJU).Transportation: 7 miles from Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport.Destination Features: The new Puerto Rico Convention Center District fea-tures dozens of night spots, restaurants and shops some of the Caribbean’s pre-mier entertainment options. The hotel has a new casino featuring non-stop action, including 500 slot machines and 16 table games. Attractions: Old San Juan; San Juan Bay Marina; El yunque Rain forest.See ad on Page 49

PuERTO RICO

VANCOUVER CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRESuite 200, 999 Canada PlaceVancouver, BC, Canada V6C 3C1(604) 689-8232; (866) 785-8232(North America only)Fax: (604) 647-7232www.vcec.caDirector of Sales: Gayle Morris

“More. On All Levels”Snapshot: Spectacular, multi-level, water-front venue, originally built for Canada Pavilion for the World’s Fair Expo in 1986, the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre will triple its size as this beautiful Canadian city prepares to host the 2010 Olympic & Paralympics Winter Games.Meeting Space: Flexible pre-function and function space totals 133,000 sq. ft. on two levels, including a 91,000-sq.-ft. col-umn-free exhibit hall; divisible into three halls and a 16,000-sq.-ft. column-free ballroom; divisible into three rooms; 20

meeting rooms from 500 to 6,500 sq. ft.; Expansion, due to be completed in 2009; will triple combined meeting/exhibition space to nearly 500,000 sq. ft. Venue features: Unique “scratch kitchen” on-site caterer utilizes fresh, local prod-ucts without additives, avoids canned goods, disposable utensils and dishes.Green Features: Designated a Powersmart Convention Centre by BC Hydro; Awarded “GO GREEN” cer-tificate from the Building Owners and Managers Association.Convention/Hotel Rooms: 13,000 quality hotel rooms within easy walking distance.Transportation: Vancouver International Airport.Attractions: Edgewater Casino, Tantra Waterfront Lounge & Grill at Lonsdale Quay Hotel, Giggle Dam Dinner Theatre, Grouse Mountain, The Peak of Vancouver, H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver Art Gallery, Dr. Sun yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, Vancouver Maritime Museum, Harbour Cruises & Events, Vancouver Museum, Vancouver Aquarium, M&M Salmon Fishing Charters, Playland @ the PNE, VanDusen Botanical Garden, Prince of Whales Whale Watching.



VANCOUVERCONVENTION &EXHIBITION CENTRESuite 200, 999 Canada PlaceVancouver, BC, Canada V6C 3C1(604) 689-8232; (866) 785-8232(North America only)Fax: (604) 647-7232www.vcec.caDirector of Sales: Gayle Morris

“More. On All Levels”Snapshot: Spectacular, multi-level,waterfront venue, originally built forCanada Pavilion for the World’s FairExpo in 1986, the VancouverConvention & Exhibition Centre willtriple its size as this beautiful Canadiancity prepares to host the 2010 Olympic& Paralympics Winter Games.Meeting Space: Flexible pre-functionand function space totals 133,000 sq. ft.on two levels, including a 91,000-sq.-ft.column-free exhibit hall; divisible intothree halls and a 16,000-sq.-ft. column-free ballroom; divisible into threerooms; 20 meeting rooms from 500 to

6,500 sq. ft.; Expansion, due to be com-pleted in 2009; will triple combinedmeeting/exhibition space to nearly500,000 sq. ft.Venue features: Unique “scratchkitchen” on-site caterer utilizes fresh,local products without additives, avoidscanned goods, disposable utensils anddishes.Green Features: Designated aPowersmart Convention Centre by BCHydro; Awarded “GO GREEN” cer-tificate from the Building Owners andManagers Association.Convention/Hotel Rooms: 13,000quality hotel rooms within easy walkingdistance.Transportation: VancouverInternational Airport.Attractions: Edgewater Casino, TantraWaterfront Lounge & Grill atLonsdale Quay Hotel, Giggle DamDinner Theatre, Grouse Mountain,The Peak of Vancouver, H.R.MacMillan Space Centre, VancouverArt Gallery, Dr. Sun Yat-Sen ClassicalChinese Garden, Vancouver MaritimeMuseum, Harbour Cruises & Events,Vancouver Museum, VancouverAquarium, M&MSalmon FishingCharters, Playland @the PNE, VanDusenBotanical Garden,Prince of Whales Whale Watching.

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

DIRECT ENERGYCENTRE 100 Princes’ Blvd.Toronto, Ontario M6K 3C3(416) 263-3020; Fax: (416) 263-3029www.directenergycentre.comDirector of Sales & Marketing:Laura Purdy

Snapshot: Direct Energy Centre isCanada’s largest exhibition and conven-tion centre with over 1 million squarefeet of exhibition space. We are conve-niently located at Exhibition Place indowntown Toronto, with 35,000 hotelrooms citywide. Toronto’s PearsonInternational Airport is host to 50global air carriers and is only 12 milesfrom Direct Energy Centre. DirectEnergy Centre is one of the world’smost environmentally responsible exhibition and convention facilities.The venue includes a PresentationTheatre with 100 Permanent fixedseats, a 8,200-seat arena and a 20,000-seat open-air stadium on-site.

Meeting Space: 1,072,000 sq. ft. ofmeeting/exhibit/event space, including23 meeting rooms; Conference Centreexpansion scheduled for 2009.Services: In-house catering and conces-sions department available. On-siteparking for 7,000 vehicles.Transportation: 12 miles/20 minutesfrom Pearson International Airport.Attractions: Air Canada Centre;Scaramouche Restaurant; HockeyHall of Fame; Le MontmartreRestaurant; The Distillery HistoricDistrict; Campbell House Museum;Black Creek Pioneer Village; TextileMuseum of Canada; Bata ShoeMuseum; Campbell House Museum;Royal Ontario Museum, ClarkeMuseum; Scarborough HistoricalMuseum; Thomson Memorial Park;MZTV Museum of Television; CBCMuseum; Benares Historic House andVisitor Centre.

ONTARIO, CANADA

THE METRO TORONTOCONVENTION CENTRE255 Front Street WestToronto, Ontario, Canada M5V 2W6(416) 585-8000; Fax: (416) 585-8198www.mtccc.comV.P. Sales & Marketing: John Houghton

“Our PEOPLE are the centre”Snapshot: The Metro TorontoConvention Centre is Canada’s #1 tradeand convention facility and one of thefinest in North America. With morethan 2 million square feet of state-of-the-art space, it is considered a world-class, tier-one facility. Since its openingin 1984, the MTCC has hosted approxi-mately 12,000 events and has enter-tained nearly 40 million guests. From 10people to 10,000. From board meetingsto gala balls and everything in between,MTCC is the answer for the right room,the right catering and the right people.Meeting Space: 460,000 sq. ft. of flexi-ble exhibit space; 64 furnished meetingrooms that cover 104,000 sq. ft. of

space; 2 multi-purpose ballroomsencompassing 78,000 sq. ft.; 1,330-seatJohn Bassett Theatre.Technology: High-speed Internet accessusing a T3 connection; Wireless Internetaccess; Customized wired and wirelessdata networks; Customized voice net-works; Digital PBX; Virtual internalnetworks; On-site technical support.Venue Features: in-house servicesinclude: Audio-visual; Simultaneoustranslation; on-site catering;Telecommunication; Banking/ATMand exchange services; Guest Servicesdesk in the main entrance of eachbuilding.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:12,000 first-class hotel rooms withinwalking distance of the Centre.Transportation: 20-minute drive fromPearson International Airport.Attractions: Theatre district is a five-minute walk from the doors ofMTCC; Air Canada Centre; RogersCentre; Medieval Times Dinner &Tournament; StageWest All-SuiteHotel & Theatre Restaurant;Guinness World Records Museum;Jackson-Triggs Niagara EstateWinery.

ONTARIO, CANADA

QUEBEC CITYCONVENTION CENTRE 1000, boul. René-Lévesque Est (418) 644-4000; (888) 679-4000 Fax: (418) 644-6455www.convention.qc.caPresident/CEO: P. Michel Bouchard

Snapshot: The Quebec CityConvention Centre is located right inthe heart of downtown Quebec, adynamic international metropolis.Unique underground walkways link thecenter to lodging, shopping, parking,restaurants, nightlife and other culturalattractions.Meeting Space: The eco-friendly com-plex contains a 75,000-sq.-ft. exhibithall, a 34,500-sq.-ft. convention hall, a25,000-sq.-ft. multipurpose room and30 meeting rooms with a total of35,000 sq. ft. Ample public space(232,000 sq. ft.) can welcome a conven-

tion of up to 3,500 attendees with anexhibition and a single-event capacityof up to 7,500 attendees.Technological Features: AVWTELAV for audiovisual needs and services; AXION for sound and light-ing for shows, banquets and exhibitions;and VIDEOTRON for high-speedInternet services.Venue Features: Onsite Catering byCapital.Convention/Guest Hotel Rooms:2,000 hotel rooms within a short distance from the centre; 12,000 gue-strooms located throughout the area.Transportation: Jean-Lisage Airport is approximately 25 minutes fromdowntown.Attractions: Dynamic downtown withrestaurants, night club and shopping;Old Quebec historic district;Montmorency Falls Park; worldfamous Ice Hotel; Winter Carnival;L’Astral revolving rooftop restaurant;Albert Gilles Art Museum &Boutique; Parc des Champs-de-Bataille; Shrine of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré; Notre-Dame de QuébecBasilica-Cathedral; Musée Edison du Phonographe.

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For a longer version oF tHis interview visit

www.Facilitiesonline.com

VIRGINIA BEACH CONVENTION CENTER1000 19th StreetVirginia Beach, VA 23451(757) 385-4700; (800) 700-7702Fax: (757) 437-4747www.vbmeetings.com Vice President Convention Sales & Marketing: Al Hutchinson

Bring it to the Beach / Meet Green, Live GreenSnapshot: Dynamic use of water, wood and natural light integrated throughout the 500,000-sq.-ft. Virginia Beach Convention Center captures the essence of the coastal destination. At the building’s entrance, a soaring, nautical glass-curtain wall appears to float in pools of water both inside and outside the building. Meeting Space: 150,000 sq. ft. column-free exhibit hall (divisible by 4); 31,000-sq.-ft. ballroom; 29,000 sq. ft. of additional meeting space; 26 meeting rooms.

Technology: Ballroom equipped with LED lighting; state-of-the-art audio/visual capabilities, wired and wireless technology. Venue Features: 360 ft. Video Art Wall in pre-function area; enticing ocean views from the 147-foot glass tower, which hosts the Executive Board Room, VIP Lounge and Observation Deck. The facility pro-vides 2,230 free parking spaces.Lodging: 3,500; 12,000+ citywide.Dining & Entertainment: Town Center, V.B.’s newest downtown district, feautur-ing dining, nightlife and the stunning Sandler Center for the Performing Arts.Transportation: Norfolk International Airport (20 minutes away).Attractions: Oceanfront Boardwalk; Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center; Contemporary Arts Center of Virginia; Charter boat fishing; Dolphin & whale watching boat trips; 11 Golf Courses; Cape Henry Historic Lighthouses; First Landing State Park; Naval Air Station Oceana; Town Center; The Association for Research and Enlightenment.See ad on page 51

vIRGInIa

WILMINGTON CONVENTION CENTERWilmington/Cape Fear Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau24 North Third StreetWilmington, NC 28401(800) 650-9064; (910) 332-8757Fax: (910) 341-4029www.BusinessMadeCasual.comConvention Sales Manager: John W. Sneed II, CHSP

Business Made CasualSnapshot: Opening in the Fall 2010, the Wilmington Convention Center puts you comfortably in the middle of a casual business climate that’s just right for your group’s next conference, meet-ing or seminar. Conveniently located on the riverfront in Historic Downtown Wilmington, and just a short drive to the charming beaches of the Cape Fear Coast, the Wilmington Convention Center is the perfect getaway to get down to business. From the wireless

Exhibit Hall to the stately southern charm of the Ballroom to the Cape Fear River porch views, our world revolves around your meeting world. Meeting Space: 48,000 sq. ft., includ-ing 14 Meeting Rooms; 12,000-sq.-ft. Ballroom (divisible into 6 rooms; 15,000-sq-ft pre-function area; 5,784 sq. ft. of additional meeting space that can be subdivided into 8 separate rooms; 11,000-sq.-ft. Event Lawn on the waterfront; 30,000-sq.-ft Exhibit Hall.Food & Beverage: Customizable menus by SAVOR... Wilmington Catering. Transportation: 4 miles Wilmington International Airport.Attractions: Wilmington’s Historic District featuring restaurants, entertainment venues and shops; the beaches of the Cape Fear Coast (Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach); Ft. Fisher, a Civil War battlefield; the USS Battleship North Carolina Memorial & Exhibit; tours of the Screen Gems Studio home of “One Tree Hill” and “Dawson’s Creek.”

nORTh CaROlIna

Call 706.208.0900 to talk about transformingyour next event into an unforgettable experience.

YOU’LL BEIMPRESSED!

Located in vibrant, eclectic Downtown Athens, Georgia - a town that inspires creative energy and exudes Southern hospitality and charm -

the award-winning Classic Center is the perfect place for meetings, conferences

and special events!


DealCenter, LLCTake the work out of trade show networking340 Royal Poinciana Way-Suite 317/#345Palm Beach, FL 33480(866) 430-3023; Fax: (201) 624-7316www.deal-center.com

The DealCenter is a turnkey product for trade show, conference or expo organizers. DealCenter, LLC works with trade show, expo or conference management companies to provide an online meeting system that enhances the peer-to- peer networking at the event for attendees and exhibitors. The DealCenter team also provides on-site management of the physical DealCenter or meeting area as well as all technical and customer support.

UrbanRide421 7th Avenue, New York, NY 10001 (800) 525-5750; Fax: (212) 202-9638 www.urbanride.net

Chief Executive Officer: Jeremy MilikowSenior Vice President: Mitch Bornstein, SVP

‘Leading Global Provider of Meeting & Event Transportation’

UrbanRide is a global provider of ground transportation for meetings & events, and uses the top-of-the-line sedans, SUVs, vans, minibuses and motorcoaches. We provide our clients with IMS, our software that enables meeting planners to better manage transportation for their meetings, conferences, conventions, tradeshows & other events. We work exclusively with meeting & event planners and our customer service is the best in the business. UrbanRide is a one-stop solution for meeting & event transportation.

Keppler Speakers4350 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22203(703) 516-4000; Fax: (703) 516-4819www.kepplerspeakers.comSenior VP for Sales and Marketing: John Truran

With Keppler Speakers, creating memorable meetings never felt so easy. With over 25 years of experience, we provide you solid, seasoned expertise, making speaker selection stress-free by managing all of the details. Keppler Speakers saves you precious time by matching you with speakers who are right on target. From proven performers to dynamic rising stars, our speakers bring fascinating, real stories and a gift for inspiring audiences.

93Facilities & Destinations 2009 SuperBook

Yo u r P r o d u c ts & S e rv i c e s R e s o u r c eB u y e r’s G u i de

Don’t Get Stuck in a Fishbowl!The Facilities Media Group

Facilities & DestinationsFacilities • Conference • Planner Guide

Facilities LIVE • Booking GuideFacilities & Event Management

www.Facilitiesonline.com

POTHOS, Inc.2260 El Cajon Blvd. #474San Diego, CA 92104 (619) 546-0621: Fax: (413) 723-7838www.pothos.usPresident & CEO: Michael Patton, CMM

“Our company ethos is Integrity, Clarity and Reliability. POTHOS works in a forthright manner that considers transparent communication as the cornerstone to a successful relationship with our guests and travel partners.”

POTHOS, Inc. is a globally recognized strategic meeting management company and corporate travel agency that specializes in using cutting-edge technology and resources to compete with much larger companies at a value, offering clients cost savings and efficient personal event planning services. POTHOS, Inc. specializes in the following 3 core competencies: 1. Full Service Strategic Meeting Management; 2. Full Service Corporate/VIP Travel Management; 3. Logistics – Freight & People. POTHOS, Inc. is your ONE source for meeting, travel and logistics. Achievement of goals and objectives, ROI and ROO are the basis of our strategic approach.

The C.W. Allen Group, LLC 5130 Cyrus Circle, Birmingham, AL 35242(205) 263-0555 Fax: (205) 263-0557www.cwallengroup.comDirector of Industry Relations: Jackie Jones

Brighter Ideas… Better Results ™

The C.W. Allen Group is North America’s leading event marketing consultancy delivering the industry’s leading exhibitor education and training program, Exhibiting ROI-Q Academy™, which has consistently proven to greatly increase exhibitor success/ROI, to significantly increase exhibitor “retention rates”… and to dramatically increase event sponsorship sales. It is the exhibition industry’s leading and fastest growing exhibitor education, training, and full time/full service “consulting” solution and is fully supported by the International Economic Alliance – conceived at Harvard University, TSEA, BPA Worldwide and ECEF. The C.W. Allen Group delivers the exhibition industry’s leading network quality, global television productions on a risk-free and revenue-generating basis.

The Facilities Media Group


F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView

everY Year, tHe meetings industrY Heads to wasHington d.c. to participate in tHe asae & tHe center’s springtime expo. destination executives and meeting planners took advantage oF tHe opportunitY to gain inFormation aBout tHe current state oF tHe industrY.

please visit tHe pHoto gallerY [email protected] For more images From tHis and otHer important industrY events.

The Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority became the first organization in New Jersey to be awarded accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program in 2008. In addition, the city has recently completed five new hotel towers and expansions, extensions of two major retail centers and a new New York–Atlantic City direct train service. (Left to right) Michael J. Reynolds, Senior Director National Sales, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority; Gary Musich, Vice President, Sales, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority; W. Clay Ellis, National Account Manager, Experient; Patrick McCormick, CMP, Director of Hotel Sales, Trump Taj Mahal; and Sandi Harvey, Director, Washington D. C. Office, Atlantic City Convention & Visitors Authority.

More than 4,000 attended this year’s ASAE & The Center’s Springtime Expo, including an estimated 2,129 meeting planners & association executives. Chicago Southland offers two large meeting facilities—the Orland Park Civic Center and the Tinley Park Convention Center—seven college/university sites and several meeting hotels. Mary Patchin (left), Director of Sales, Visit Chicago Southland—the destination’s Convention & Visitors Bureau and Kelly Sujka, Director of Sales & Marketing, Doubletree Hotel Chicago-ASLIP were showing meeting planners the cost-effective meeting and event opportunities that lay “Just Beyond The City Limits.

Stefani N. Perrini, CMP, Director of Conference Planning for the National Conference Center in Lansdowne, VA, which features 265,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and 250 meeting rooms, an onsite Conference Support Team and Complete Meeting Packages.

Toni L. Crouch, CAE, Vice President, Education and Convention, American Chamber of Commerce Executives with Robert Wood, Convention Sales Manager, Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau at the ASAE & The Center’s Springtime Expo, an annual networking & educational convention and trade show hosted by the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, in Washington, D.C. Oklahoma City, which features more than 15,000 hotel rooms city-wide, offers a variety of meeting space that includes the Cox Convention Center (27,500 square feet of flexible convention and pre-convene space, with 21 meeting rooms and a 100,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall). Other meeting venues include: Beacon Club, Best Western Saddleback Inn and Conference Center, Character Training Institute Conference Center, Clarion-Meridian Hotel & Convention Center; Express Event Center; Lansbrook Event Center; Lazy E Arena; PHF Research Park Conference Center; Plaza Hotel & Conference Center and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, featuring a 16,5000-square-foot Special Event Center.

Providence, Rhode Island, a destination known for its rich history, arts, culture, and nationally acclaimed restaurants, also boasts the Rhode Island Convention and Entertainment Complex, which consists of the Rhode Island Convention Center, the Dunkin’ Donuts Center, and the Veterans Memorial Auditorium Arts & Cultural Center. The complex, located in the heart of the city, is within walking distance of hotels, the city’s diverse culinary scene as well as eclectic shops and scores of arts and cultural attractions. Promoting Providence at the ASAE event held in April were Martha Sheridan (left), President, Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, Neil R. Schriever, Senior Vice President, Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Ann Marie Spatharakis, Sales Manager, Renaissance Providence Hotel.

May 27, 2010 – Washington, D.C. Walter E. Washington Convention Center

CORPORATE PARTNERS

EVENT PARTNERS

Visit Baltimore • Boxwood • Cincinnati USA CVB • Dallas CVB • Greater Fort Lauderdale CVB LarsonAllen • Marketing General Inc. • MultiView • St. Louis CVC • Visit Charlotte

Irving CVB, Johnson Lambert & Co. LLP, Richmond Metro CVB, SunTrust Bank

STRATEGIC PARTNERSSTRATEGIC PARTNERS

Registration opens January 2010.The 2010 Springtime Expo will have you jumping for joy!

Be thrilled with networking opportunities where you will connect with new and familiar colleagues.

Elevate your knowledge through idea-awakening education sessions.Increase your productivity by leaps and bounds by exploring products and services to help you implement your meetings.

Jump-start your meeting planning by visiting hundreds of fabulous destinations and venues on the expo floor.

at the 2010 Springtime Expo — the largest one-day show in the meetings industry.Get a Jump on Your Next Meeting

Stay Tuned!

Registration opens January 2010.



STRATEGIC PARTNERS



STRATEGIC PARTNERS


2010 sHow calendarspringtime, april 16, 2010, walter e. washington convention center, washington d.c.

aFFordaBle meetings mid-america, april 14-16, 2010, navy pier, chicago

aFFordaBle meetings west, June 16-17, 2010, long Beach convention center, california

mpi world education conFerence, July 24-27 2010, vancouver convention center, canada

asae annual convention, august 21-24, 2010, los angeles convention center, california

aFFordaBle meetings national, september 8-9, 2010, walter e. washington convention center, washington d.c.

iaee annual meeting, december 7-9, 2010, morial convention center, new orleans


Adventure Aquarium .........................15Akron/Summit CVB ............................53Albuquerque Convention Center.....69Alliant Energy Center of Dane County ......................................54Austin Convention Center ................71Baton Rouge CVB ..............................37Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex ........................39Boston Convention & Exhibition Center ...............................19Branson Convention Center .............55Charleston Civic Center ....................35Cox Business Services Convention Center ............................75Colorado Springs CVB ......................73Daytona Beach Area CVB .................40Fairplex ...............................................77

George R. Brown Convention Center ...........................C2Greater Boston CVB ..........................17Greater Columbus Convention Center ............................59Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward County Convention Center ..............C3Hawaii Convention Center ................81Jacob Javits Convention Center ......21Kansas City Convention Center ........60Lake George NY’s Adirondacks ........27Meadowlands Exposition Center .....23Miami Beach Convention Center .....43Midwest Airlines Center ...................C4Mobile Convention Center .................3Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center .....................63Morial Convention Center ................45Norfolk CVB .......................................33

Oklahoma City CVB ...........................83Oncenter ............................................24Orange County Convention Center ............................47Oregon Convention Center ..............85Positively Cleveland ...........................57Providence Warwick CVB ..................25Puerto Rico Convention Center .......91Rapid City CVB...................................65Rhode Island Convention Center .......9Rochester Riverside Convention Center ............................29Sacramento Convention Center .......87Salina Bicentennial Center ................62Savannah Area CVB ...........................49Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center ..............................7SMG ......................................................5Valley Forge Convention Center ......31

Facilities & Destinations SuperBook Advertiser Index

F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView | F&D IndustryView

Keppler Speakers4350 N. Fairfax Dr., Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22203(703) 516-4000; Fax: (703) 516-4819www.kepplerspeakers.comSenior VP for Sales and Marketing: John Truran

With Keppler Speakers, creating memorable meetings never felt so easy. With over 25 years of experience, we provide you solid, seasoned expertise, making speaker selection stress-free by managing all of the details. Keppler Speakers saves you precious time by matching you with speakers who are right on target. From proven performers to dynamic rising stars, our speakers bring fascinating, real stories and a gift for inspiring audiences.

Yo u r P r o d u c ts & S e rv i c e s R e s o u r c eB u y e r’s G u i de

POTHOS, Inc.2260 El Cajon Blvd. #474San Diego, CA 92104 (619) 546-0621: Fax: (413) 723-7838www.pothos.usPresident & CEO: Michael Patton, CMM

“Our company ethos is Integrity, Clarity and Reliability. POTHOS works in a forthright manner that considers transparent communication as the cornerstone to a successful relationship with our guests and travel partners.”

POTHOS, Inc. is a globally recognized strategic meeting management company and corporate travel agency that specializes in using cutting-edge technology and resources to compete with much larger companies at a value, offering clients cost savings and efficient personal event planning services. POTHOS, Inc. specializes in the following 3 core competencies: 1. Full Service Strategic Meeting Management; 2. Full Service Corporate/VIP Travel Management; 3. Logistics – Freight & People. POTHOS, Inc. is your ONE source for meeting, travel and logistics. Achievement of goals and objectives, ROI and ROO are the basis of our strategic approach.

The Facilities Media Group


Continental Airlines“Work Hard. Fly Right.”For travel reservations to cities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico:(800) 523-FARE www.continental.com

Continental Airlines features a special program for event & meeting planners—MeetingWorks. With Continental MeetingWorks, planners can receive discounted airfaire, and earn credits redeemable for an array of Travel Rewards, including round trip travel and upgrades. Booking and participation in the program can be done entirely online.

MeetingWorks is for 10 or more guests traveling to an event from two or more originating cities. The benefits of this program include: Discounts off applicable published fares; Global zone fares; Customized flyers to promote the discounts; Your organization can earn productivity credits towards upgrades; Presidents Club passes, Presidents Club membership; domestic travel certificates and Continental currency coupons.

Take the Guesswork Out of Choosing a SpeakerWhy go it alone? We are your trusted advisors.

With an average 15 years in the industry, our agents know the speakers and know the process.

We save you time by understanding your exact needs and delivering speakers who are right on target.

With Keppler, you can relax. We’ve got you covered.

Contact us at kepplerspeakers.com or 703.516.4000.

Smart CityConventions: Information: (888) 446-6911 or (702) 943-6000Email: [email protected] Hospitality: General, (407) 828-6938Video Conferencing: General, (407) 828-6900

Making the world smarter. One city at a time. ®

Smart City is a full-service communications provider across the nation and one of the world’s largest communications providers to convention centers and hospitality venues. Smart City provides technologies that make their cities smarter places to work, live, and play.


pc/nametag® PRODUCTS FOR GREAT MEETINGS

124 Horizon Dr., Verona, WI 53593(877) 626-3824; Fax: (800) 233-9787 www.pcnametag.comPresident: Nick Topitzes; [email protected]; [email protected]

Founder Nick Topitzes first developed PC/Nametag®, the first software package to print nametags for meetings and conferences, with his computer and printer. Over the years, it’s been updated and improved. The business has expanded to include hundreds of products and incentive items that make the job of planning meetings easier while enhancing the attendee experience. Product lines include Nametag Holders, Inserts, Pouches & Organizers, Necklaces & Lanyards, Awards & Gifts, Bags, Totes, Envelopes & Cases, Banners, Signs & Table Covers, Binders & Portfolios, Buttons & Appliques, Drinkware, Pens & Highlighters, Ribbons and Customized Products.

ExperientTHE SOURCE FOR INTEGRATED MEETING AND EVENT SOLUTIONS

For more information on Experient Contact: Amy Munn(866) 516-1461 • [email protected] • www.experient-inc.com

Experient is the source for integrated meeting and event services. Formed in August 2006 (by joining industry leaders Conferon, ExpoExchange and ITS), Experient is the single contact for all Meeting Management, Trade Show Production and Registration and Housing needs. As your partner, Experient will become a member of your team, understanding all the goals of your event, and use proven techniques, creative methods and powerful industry connections to provide a distinct and memorable event experience and drive your business. The Top seven reasons why Experient is the best choice to be your integrated meeting and event partner: (1) Integrated resources; (2) Economies of scale; (3) Single source efficiency; (4) Best practice sharing; (5) Experienced people; (6) Leadership role; (7) Consultative approach.

Plasticard Locktech InternationalThe World’s Largest Hotel Key Card Manufacturer

605 Sweeten Creek Industrial Park Asheville, NC 28803 (800) 752-1017; Fax: (828) 210-4755www.plicards.com Sales Manager: Linda Russell

PLI produces key cards & other products for hotels, meetings, conventions, events, and advertising. We also manufacture a full line of gift cards, membership cards and loyalty cards. PLI key cards put your message directly in the hands of hotel guests & meeting attendees.

Yo u r P r o d u c ts & S e rv i c e s R e s o u r c eBuyer’s Guide

Michael CaffinAssociate Publisher(212) 532 4150 ext [email protected]

DO yOu WANT yOuR PRODuCT OR SERVICE TO REACH 50,000+ ASSOCIATION & CORPORATE MEETING PLANNERS?

IF yOuR ANSWER IS yES,THEN THE FMG BuyER’S GuIDE IS HOW.

DISCOuNT PRICING • MuLTIPLE-ISSuE & MuLTI-MEDIA PACKAGESVALuE-ADDED PROGRAMS • TARGET MARKETING • REAL TIME RESuLTS

CONTACT ME & FIND OuT MORE

ASAE & The Center ................................................................ 57

Austin Convention Center ..................................................... 17

Branson Convention Center .................................................. 19

Charleston Civic Center .........................................................C2

Chattanooga Area CVB .......................................................... 21

The Classic Center .................................................................. 55

Cox Convention Center ......................................................... 23

George R. Brown Convention Center ...................................C4

The Georgia Center, The University of Georgia’s

Conference Center & Hotel ................................................... 26

Greater Ft. Lauderdale/Broward

County Convention Center .................................................... 25

Hard Rock Hollywood/Seminole ........................................... 27

Hilton Atlanta .......................................................................... 13

Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax ....................................................... 28

Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau ................................. 29

JW Marriott Indianapolis ........................................................C3

Kansas Expocentre ................................................................. 31

Meadowlands Exposition Center .......................................... 33

Mississippi Gulf Coast CVB/Harrison County Tourism Commission .............................................................. 35

Norfolk CVB ............................................................................ 36

Oklahoma City CVB .......................................................... 37, 39

Orange County Convention Center ...................................... 41

Providence Warwick CVB ....................................................... 43

Puerto Rico Convention Center ............................................ 45

Rhode Island Convention Center ............................................ 3

Rochester Riverside Convention Center ............................... 47

Sheraton Puerto Rico ............................................................. 49

Virginia Beach CVB ................................................................. 51

Advertiser index

2009 Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide

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Transcript of 2009 Facilities & Destinations Planner Guide