1. travel
2. tourist facilities
3. hotel

Serving Meeting Professionals Throughout The Southeast
Fall 2014
Coastal Venues
Affordable Meetings
Five Green Meeting
Myths: Busted!
Serving Meeting Professionals Throughout The Southeast
Contents
Convention Forum • Fall 2014
C oastal V enues
5 Visit New Bern, North Carolina
Visit New Bern for business, but stay for pleasure
9 Renaissance Riverview Plaza
Convention center hotel offers award-winning service
10 Holiday Inn Resort on Panama City Beach, Florida
Where business & pleasure coexist
11 Holiday Inn Select in Panama City Beach, Florida
Your home away from home
15 Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Meet, stay, eat & play
Renaissance Riverview Plaza; Mobile, Alabama
Success Strategies
8
by Walt Grassl
A ffordable M eetings
Features
24 Where Historic Beauty Meets Technology
MSU Riley Center
33 Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa
The history, culture and southern hospitality that is Mobile
35 Alabama’s Golf Resorts Offer Great Meeting Venues at a Real Value
G reen V enues
16 Hilton Key Largo
Use Improv to Improve Your
Business Skills
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort
Knoxville Convention Center
Greater Richmond Convention Center
Newport News Tourism Development Office
17
Five Green Meeting Myths:
Busted?
by Kristen Clarke
Departments
4
11, 28
18, 29
Publisher’s Message
Industry Developments
In the News
Meetings at a Glance
Alabama
2 0 Alabama Venues
Florida
2 1 Florida Venues
21 FSAE News & Events
Georgia
22 Georgia Venues
22 GSAE News & Events
Louisiana
23 Louisiana Venues
Mississippi and North Carolina
26 Historic MSU Riley Center
Virginia and West Virginia
32 Virginia Venues
Offering state-of-the-art meeting spaces 32 West Virginia Venues
27 Mississippi Venues
27 North Carolina Venues
South Carolina
28 South Carolina Venues
Tennessee and Texas
29 Tennessee Venues
29 Texas Venues
31 Knoxville Convention Center
Southern hospitality. Downtown
sophistication. Outdoor adventure.
On the Cover: New Bern
Riverfront; New Bern,
North Carolina
NEW! Look for this symbol as you browse the pages of
Convention Forum™. Venues marked with this symbol have
a virtual tour available at conventionforum.com. For more
information, email us at [email protected].
We thank all the state and city CVBs throughout the Southeast for contributing photos as needed to our publication.
ISSN 1556-1097 © 2014 Convention ForumTM is published by MAVERICK MARKETING LLC
10524 Moss Park Road, Ste. 204-138, Orlando, FL 32832; 407.891.9941; FAX: 407.891.9985
conventionforum.com
Publisher: Maverick Marketing Copy Editor: Susan Trainor Creative Director: Tina Robers
Fromthe Publisher
Greening the Halls ... Greening Your Meetings
We are putting the finishing touches on
this edition of Convention Forum™ during a
time when many of us are also putting the
finishing touches on our holiday decorations.
An old-fashioned and festive tradition is known
as “greening the halls.” This is a time when
churchgoers, club members or neighbors get
together to hang swags of freshly cut pine
branches, beautiful holly wreaths and other
Christmas greenery to celebrate the season at
places of worship, clubhouses and local homes.
Greening the halls brings to mind one of our features, Green Venues, found on page
16. We are pleased to feature resorts, convention centers and a tourism development
office that are doing their part to help meeting planners “green their meetings.” And for
those who may not yet be on board the “green wagon” because they think green meetings
are too difficult or too expensive? Turn to page 17, where guest columnist Kristen Clarke
busts five green meeting myths for us. Find out why your investments in green meetings
are actually good for the bottom line!
And while you’re sipping hot chocolate and staying warm in front of a fire this winter
season, fire your imagination with thoughts of a coastal meeting. We feature great places
to meet near the beach on pages 5 through 15.
If golf is the way your attendees swing, then take a look at Alabama’s golf resorts on
page 35. Fun, affordable meetings wait for you at your choice of eight world-class hotels
where meeting goers can enjoy great golf on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.
I love good improv, don’t you? There’s just something about watching talented actors
ad-lib their way through a scene with no script. Well, business can be a lot like ad-lib
(there’s no script for my day; how about you?), and we welcome comedian Walt Grassel
as he shares with us the ways that improv can improve our business skills. You’ll find his
five improv rules on page 8.
Finally, be sure to check out Meetings At A Glance, beginning on page 19. These
“quick picks” give you the info you need to make contact with your next meeting host.
And don’t forget, ask how you can “green your meeting”!
PUBLICATION
Maverick Marketing LLC
10524 Moss Park Road
Ste. 204-138
Orlando, FL 32832
407.891.9941 Phone
407.891.9985 Fax
Susan Trainor
Copy Editor
[email protected]
Tina Robers
Graphic Designer
ADVERTISING
Michelle M. Cyr
407.891.9941
[email protected]
Laura Horn
404.680.9138
[email protected]
Here’s to the green—holiday and otherwise,
Michelle M. Cyr
Maverick Marketing LLC
Convention Forum is a publication for meeting planners.
Convention Forum reaches more than 30,000* meeting
planners across the Southeastern United States and the
Top Fortune 1000 Companies Nationwide.
*Based on 3.0 pass along rate.
P.S. Convention Forum™ ™ wishes all of you a blessed holiday season and a happy new year.
Please think of us as you celebrate, and be sure to send your photos for our Faces & Places, In the News
and Industry Update departments. We want to share your good news! Send your news and photos to
[email protected].
All information contained in this publication reflects only
the opinions of the authors; none is to be interpreted as
having the endorsement or recommendation of Maverick
Marketing LLC, its affiliates or contractors, except where
such a statement is included in the wording of the text.
Articles presented without the byline of an author were
compiled from press release materials.
4 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Coastal Venues
New Bern, North Carolina
Visit New Bern for business, but stay
for pleasure
N
ew Bern is more than a charming coastal destination. It’s also
the perfect location for hosting a convention or a meeting.
The New Bern Riverfront Convention Center—a state-of-the-art
facility located along the city’s riverfront in historic downtown
New Bern—offers modern-day conveniences in the heart of a
town filled with old-world charm and sophistication.
The 45,000 sq. ft. convention center, which accommodates
more than 1,300 attendees, is designed to give you everything you
need for a memorable meeting. It provides you with a relaxed,
modern environment, ensuring that attendees are entertained,
invigorated and motivated to fulfill your objectives. Whether you
need a large meeting space or a small room, we’ve got the right
location for you. A 12,000 sq. ft. ballroom/exhibition space can be
divided into three rooms and is easily accessible to the main floor
loading dock. Breakout meeting rooms are also available, including
an executive boardroom, 8,000 sq. ft. of pre-function space and a
beautiful waterfront veranda.
The convention center’s dedicated staff is happy to manage any
necessary details to keep your event running flawlessly. We provide
extensive on-site planning as well as guidance with everything from
hotels to receptions to catering. We’ll also help with customized
bids, site visits, itineraries, welcome packages and planning of tours
and other activities to ensure that your event runs as seamlessly as
possible. And with the New Bern-Craven County Convention &
Visitor Center conveniently located inside the convention center,
you’ll know all of your attendees will receive the assistance they
need to make their trip unforgettable.
The center offers complete electrical, voice and data service, free
wi-fi and utility outlets at every 10 feet throughout the facility.
Extensive audio-visual packages and production capabilities are
available as well as both teleconferencing and videoconferencing.
Additional amenities include in-house kitchen facilities, an onsite business center, complimentary parking, portable concessions
stands and more.
The New Bern Riverfront Convention Center
The New Bern Riverfront Convention Center is within walking
distance of a number of shops, restaurants, historic homes, gardens
and such major attractions as Tyron Palace, the Historic Trolley
Tour, Birthplace of Pepsi and New Bern Firemen’s Museum. It’s
also in close proximity to 400 guestrooms, all of which are found
in the heart of downtown New Bern.
Centrally located along the coast, New Bern is easily within
reach of a number of major cities. The Coastal Carolina Regional
Airport, which connects the Crystal Coast region to more than
300 destinations worldwide, is just five miles from the downtown
New Bern Riverfront Convention Center.
In addition to the New Bern
Up Close and Personal
Riverfront Convention Center,
the city is home to a variety
of unique venues and groupfriendly attractions that not only
serve as event spaces, but also
immerse visitors in the town’s
rich culture and natural beauty.
Mary A. Harris
As the colonial capital of North
Director
New Bern Riverfront
Carolina, you’ll find amazing
Convention Center
historic attractions and quaint
New Bern-Craven County
downtown streets that make
Convention & Visitor Center
New Bern a first-class convention
New Bern, N.C.
252.637.1551, ext. 4600
destination for history buffs,
[email protected]
outdoor recreation lovers and
visitnewbern.com
fun-seekers alike.
The New Bern riverfront
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
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5
Coastal Venues
New Bern, North Carolina
Visit New Bern for business, but stay for pleasure
F
Dining on the New Bern riverfront
Captain Ratty’s
6 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
ew meeting locations offer
the distinct charm and
beauty of historic New Bern.
Centrally located along the coast
of North Carolina, this picturesque riverfront town is a dream
destination that’s perfectly positioned for business travel and
meetings.
When you visit the colonial
capital of North Carolina and
the second oldest town in
the state, you’ll find unique
historic attractions and quaint
downtown streets—but
New Bern has much more to
offer. Lively entertainment,
trendy shopping and dining,
unmatched recreational
opportunities and public events
scheduled throughout the year
are just part of the charm of this
river town.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Shopping in historic New Bern
Downtown New Bern is home to more than 100 historic
landmarks. In addition to Tryon Palace, the city offers trolley
tours, the New Bern Firemen’s Museum, spectacular gardens and
historic homes, quaint shops and delicious restaurants. It’s home
to the internationally popular soft drink Pepsi-Cola, founded by
local New Bern pharmacist Caleb Bradham in 1898. Just down
the road is the 157,000 acre Croatan National Forest, nationally
recognized for its trails and recreation opportunities. And New
Bern is also home to novelist Nicholas Sparks, who mentions a
number of New Bern’s downtown districts in his novels.
Make plans for your next event at the New Bern Riverfront
Convention Center—a state-of-the-art facility located along
the city’s riverfront in downtown New Bern. This 45,000 sq. ft.
facility accommodates more than 1,300 attendees and is designed
to give you everything you need for a memorable meeting. You’ll
get modern-day conveniences in the heart of a town filled with
old-world charm and sophistication.
In addition to the convention center, the city is home to a
variety of unique venues and group-friendly attractions that
not only serve as event spaces, but also immerse visitors in the
town’s rich culture and natural beauty. North Carolina’s historic
colonial mansion, Tryon Palace, not only can be enjoyed as a top
attraction for guests, but can be utilized as an event space as well.
Or make use of the North Carolina History Center—one of the
most technologically advanced sites in the country—which also
offers a unique meeting place.
All of these spaces are within walking distance of hotels, bed and
breakfast locations and all of downtown’s major attractions.
The dedicated staff at the New Bern-Craven County
Convention & Visitor Center is happy to manage any necessary
details to keep your event running flawlessly. We’re able to
provide an array of services, including customized bids, planning
kits, site visits, itineraries, welcome packages and planning of tours
and other activities to ensure that your event runs as seamlessly—
and as affordably—as possible. Modest pricing is available at a
variety of venues throughout New Bern and Craven County.
New Bern also offers a convenient location that is easily within
reach of a number of major cities. The Coastal Carolina Regional
Airport, which connects the Crystal Coast region to more than
300 destinations worldwide, is just five miles from the downtown
New Bern Riverfront Convention Center.
Up Close and Personal
New Bern Riverfront Convention Center
New Bern-Craven County Convention
& Visitor Center
New Bern, N.C.
252.637.1551, ext. 4600
Mary A. Harris
Director
[email protected]
visitnewbern.com
Surf, Wind and Fire
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
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7
CONVENTION FORUM SUCCESS STRATEGIES
Use Improv to Improve Your
Business Skills
by Walt Grassl
S
usie and Ron had been working
together for 11 years and had
been managers for the last three.
Ron was struggling with getting
his organization to perform at a
high level, and he had noticed that Susie
consistently not only met—but exceeded—
her goals.
Ron saw Susie in line at the company
cafeteria and asked if he could sit with her
at lunch. After some small talk, Ron shared
his struggles with Susie and jokingly asked
what her secret was.
Susie said she had been taking improv
classes for a few years, and not only were
they a lot of fun, but they also had helped
her to overcome her fear of speaking in public and to make a bigger impact in meetings.
Ron was not familiar with improv. Susie
explained that improv is unscripted comedy that requires quick thinking from the
participants. In improv, the plot, the characters and the dialogue of a scene are made
up in the moment. The key to making improv work is having all of the players follow
a specific set of rules. Susie recognized that
those rules could improve her performance
at work as well.
Susie explained to Ron five of the rules of
improv and how following those rules were
helping her as a leader:
1. Say yes. Agreement, saying “yes,”
is one of the most important rules of improv. An improv scene begins with each
individual performing space work, which
is the physical representation of an activity.
If you are doing space work and intend to
be “hanging a picture,” but before you label
yourself that way, your partner says you are
“a worker on strike shaking your fist,” you
must discard your idea and agree with the
label your partner gives you.
In the workplace, this means respecting
what your fellow employee says or has created. Do not dismiss it because it differs
with your perception or your opinion. Take
time to understand your colleague’s beliefs
and feelings, and then proceed from a basis
of agreement.
In addition to saying yes, an improv performer should provide his or her own in-
formation to the scene, saying “yes, and.”
In the example above where the improviser
is now being labeled a striking worker, the
actor should add information like “Yes, and
I will continue to strike until management
lets me bring my pet iguana to work.” If
you merely agree in an improv scene without adding information, you put the weight
and the direction of the scene entirely on
your partner’s shoulders.
In a professional sense, this means that
you don’t make your teammates do all the
work. You should contribute both your
work effort and your ideas to help move
your projects forward. Contributing your
ideas means both giving your new and novel
ideas and also looking to grow and add to
the ideas of your teammates. Yes, I understand your idea, and what if we modify it
this way?
2. Mistakes are O.K. In an improv scene,
when a performer makes a mistake, it is an
opportunity to “yes, and” to the mistake. If
you and I are in a scene and you say my
name is Michael and then later call me John,
I can acknowledge it and say something like
“You’re just like my mom; she confuses me
and my twin brother, John, all the time.”
At work, when something doesn’t go well,
there are lessons to be learned or potential
new opportunities. Why did the mistake
happen? What is the result of the mistake?
Can that result be used in a different way?
One of the office supplies most of us use
daily was actually the result of a mistake.
While trying to develop a high-strength adhesive, a 3M employee accidentally created
a low-strength, reusable, pressure-sensitive
adhesive. This “mistake” eventually enabled
the Post-it® Note.
3. Start somewhere. There is no perfect
place to begin an improv scene. Begin with
the first thing that comes to mind. Once
you start, you begin layering on the agreements, and a scene develops.
In the workplace, there is often a tendency to be paralyzed with what you don’t
know rather than to identify what you do
know and then make some sound judgments about where to start. Losing time
due to uncertainty can put a project behind
8 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
from the start, and it makes it harder to stay
on schedule and on budget. So, just start.
4. Make your partner look good. Two
ways improv players can make their partners
look good is by rescuing someone who is
struggling and by not hogging control of the
scene. Beautiful improv is in the give and
take and in the layering of contributions.
The same is true in the office.
When a coworker has an agenda and
minimizes the information his or her partner has shared, the project can be lacking.
Should a coworker happen to falter and a
partner helps get the project back on track,
they both look good.
5. Be in the moment. In an improv
scene, each actor must be totally focused
on the now. If you are planning ahead in
the scene or are thinking about a problem
at work or at home, you will miss some information.
An obvious example is when you are in a
meeting at work. Participate and contribute;
don’t check your phone or your computer,
or have side conversations.
Ron took Susie’s advice. He began taking improv classes. Initially, like most beginners, he struggled. He stayed with it,
though, took additional classes and gradually began to apply the rules of improv in
his scenes without having to think about
them. He also found himself following the
rules in the office, and he noticed a marked
improvement in his performance during
meetings and in his overall workplace skills.
About the Author
Walt Grassl is a speaker,
author and performer. He
hosts the radio show Stand Up
and Speak Up on the RockStar
Worldwide network. Walt has
performed standup comedy at the Hollywood
Improv and the Flamingo in Las Vegas and
is studying improv at the Groundlings School
in Hollywood. For more information on
bringing Walt Grassl to your next event, visit
waltgrassl.com.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Coastal Venues
Renaissance Riverview Plaza
Convention center hotel offers
award-winning service
O
ur elegant Mobile, Alabama, hotel near the Gulf Coast is
connected to the Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center via
the skywalk. Renaissance Riverview Plaza is a AAA 4-Diamond
property. Come visit and experience our awarding-winning service
and accommodations. The hotel is located near the entertainment
district, museums, Mardi Gras and Bayfest—Mobile’s music festival. Enjoy access to on-site dining, a state-of-the-art fitness center
and proximity to the Robert
Up Close and Personal
Trent Jones Golf Trail. Affordable group rates begin at $99.
Contact us to help design a
meeting around your budget.
Kim Jackson
Director of Sales & Marketing
Renaissance Hotels of Mobile
Mobile, Ala.
251.438.4000
[email protected]
www.renaissancehotels.com/mobbr
Renaissance Riverview Plaza
MEET ME IN MOBILE.
Hank Aaron is from here. So is America’s original
Mardi Gras. Mobile, Alabama has been hosting
successful meetings for more than 300 years.
Experience this exciting port city for yourself and
stay at Renaissance Riverview Plaza. From family
reunions to association meetings to corporate
conventions, Renaissance Riverview offers 373
affordable guest rooms, great meeting space and
four diamond service. See magnificent views of
Mobile Bay or downtown’s historic architecture
from your room.
2014 Value Dates include Nov 9–December 28.
2015 Value Dates include February 16–24, March 15–26, April 19–30,
May 18–31, August–November.
For additional information call 251 438 4000 or email
[email protected].
RENAISSANCE MOBILE RIVERVIEW PLAZA HOTEL
64 South Water Street Mobile, AL 36602
t: 251 438 4000 renaissanceriverview.com
A part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
Valid until February 28, 2015. Not valid for existing contracts, special offer must be listed in sales contract,
for groups booking 400 or more total room nights.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Sample the freshest seafood or great steaks and
walk to Mobile’s arts and entertainment districts.
Come experience our hospitality, history and
heritage. Meet me in Mobile.
BIG REWARDS. Book any group value date in
2014 and 2015 to receive: One complimentary
room for every 40 revenue generating rooms » 10
percent off Food & Beverage » Five complimentary
guestroom upgrades » Five complimentary
welcome amenities for five VIP’s » Two 60-minute
spa treatments » 10 complimentary rounds of golf
including cart rental » $3000 credit for a welcome
reception.
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
9
Coastal Venues
Holiday Inn Resort on
Panama City Beach, Florida
Where business & pleasure coexist
B
usiness and pleasure coexist at the beautiful beachfront Holiday
Inn Resort on Panama City Beach, Florida! This award-winning resort is where families join together to enjoy great activities
and entertainment along the sugar-white sandy beaches. This resort
also offers on-site meeting space that overlooks the emerald-green
waters of the Gulf of Mexico to stimulate ideas for a successful
meeting! With all 340 guestrooms facing the beach, a wide array
of amenities from the newly enhanced kids’ water playground—
Aqualand—to the on-site day spa
Up Close and Personal
and all the convenience of on-site
dining and catering for breakfast,
lunch and dinner, the Holiday Inn
Resort has everything you need for
a relaxing getaway or an inspired
meeting.
Meeting planners win big with
Connie Miller
great
programs that allow them to
Director of Sales
Holiday Inn Resort
earn IHG Rewards Club bonus
Panama City Beach, Fla.
points and enjoy commissionable
800.807.2232
offers, along with the ease of
[email protected]
planning with great catering
hipcbeach.com
Holiday Inn Resort on Panama City Beach
packages as well as access to group excursions for fishing and golf,
and the friendly resort sales team is ready to help every step of
the way.
The Holiday Inn Resort strives to provide a superior level
of service to ensure your function runs smoothly, along with a
vacation experience that is second to none! To learn more about
the Holiday Inn Resort, visit hipcbeach.com, or if you’re ready
to find the best package for your next gathering or meeting, call
800.807.2232 and one of our talented resort team members will
be happy to assist!
For a virtual tour of this site, visit conventionforum.com or sign up for our new, expanded digital version that includes slide shows and videos.
For more information, email us at [email protected].
10 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Coastal Venues
Holiday Inn Select
in Panama City, Florida
Your home away from home
IndustryDevelopments
W
Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta
Georgia World Congress Center Becomes World’s Largest
LEED Certified Convention Center
The Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC) was recently
awarded LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building
Council. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design, is a rating system for the design,
operation and maintenance of green buildings. The GWCC is
now the world’s largest LEED certified convention center. With
3.9 million sq. ft., the GWCC is also the 14th largest LEED
certified building in the world. gwcc.com
hen business or pleasure takes you away
from home, Welcome to
Ours! Planning business or
leisure travel has never been
so easy! Offering all the
amenities for you and your
guests, let us be your “Home
away from home!” Centrally located in Panama City, Florida,
our fully equipped hotel offers more than 4,000 sq. ft. of meeting
space to accommodate any meeting, from corporate business to
reunions to full banquets. Our certified convention staff will ensure your meeting is stress free so
Up Close and Personal
you can concentrate on business.
Our full-service hotel has everything to meet your needs when
your business requires you to stay
the night!
Our professionally trained sales
team is ready to make every part
Jennine Brown
of your meeting planning flawless
Assistant General Manager
Holiday Inn Select
and painless. Visit us at hiselect.
Panama City, Fla.
com/panamacityfl or call our
866.866.0441
sales team today at 850.769.0000 [email protected]
to start planning your next event
hiselect.com/panamacityfl
with us.
David Gabri (second from right), CEO of ALHI, presents the Chairman’s Award to
(from left): Katie Bellas, director of sales & marketing, Rosen Shingle Creek; Dan
Giordano, general manager, Rosen Shingle Creek; Harris Rosen, president & COO, Rosen
Hotels & Resorts; and Leslie Menichini, vice president, sales & marketing, Rosen Hotels
& Resorts. They are pictured at Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando.
ALHI Presents Chairman’s Award to Rosen Shingle Creek
Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) presented Rosen
Shingle Creek with its prestigious Chairman’s Award as the ALHI
Hotel of the Year for 2014. The award is presented annually to
the ALHI member hotel or resort that best displays exemplary
leadership and commitment to performance in the preceding
year while epitomizing exceptional property-level teamwork and
cohesion with ALHI’s Global Sales Organization (GSO) team
in serving the meetings industry. The award was announced
at ALHI’s Industry Advisory Council conference, which was
recently held at the “new” Hotel del Coronado in Coronado
(San Diego), Calif. alhi.com; rosenshinglecreek.com
continued on page 28
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 11
Coastal Venues
Holiday Inn Resort on
Panama City Beach, Florida
Where business & pleasure coexist
B
usiness and pleasure coexist at the beautiful beachfront Holiday
Inn Resort on Panama City Beach, Florida! This award-winning resort is where families join together to enjoy great activities
and entertainment along the sugar-white sandy beaches. This resort
also offers on-site meeting space that overlooks the emerald-green
waters of the Gulf of Mexico to stimulate ideas for a successful
meeting! With all 340 guestrooms facing the beach, a wide array
of amenities from the newly enhanced kids’ water playground—
Aqualand—to the on-site day spa
Up Close and Personal
and all the convenience of on-site
dining and catering for breakfast,
lunch and dinner, the Holiday Inn
Resort has everything you need for
a relaxing getaway or an inspired
meeting.
Meeting planners win big with
Connie Miller
great programs that allow them to
Director of Sales
earn IHG Rewards Club bonus
Holiday Inn Resort
points and enjoy commissionable
Panama City Beach, Fla.
800.807.2232
offers, along with the ease of
[email protected] planning with great catering
hipcbeach.com
packages as well as access to group
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Holiday Inn Resort on Panama City Beach
excursions for fishing and golf, and the friendly resort sales team is
ready to help every step of the way.
The Holiday Inn Resort strives to provide a superior level
of service to ensure your function runs smoothly, along with a
vacation experience that is second to none! To learn more about
the Holiday Inn Resort, visit hipcbeach.com, or if you’re ready
to find the best package for your next gathering or meeting, call
800.807.2232 and one of our talented resort team members will
be happy to assist!
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 13
Coastal Venues
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Meet, stay, eat & play
T
he Myrtle Beach area known as the Grand Strand stretches
some 60 miles along the South Carolina coastline from Little
River to Pawley Island. More than 15 million people visit this
oceanfront destination each year for a variety of reasons. If you are
looking for the freshest seafood, sandy beaches, abundant attractions, live shows, a stroll on the boardwalk, shopping and much,
much more, then Myrtle Beach is the place for you. Myrtle Beach
Destination Meetings truly believes that you and your attendees
can have it all … meet, stay, eat and play. Myrtle Beach Destination Meetings features many of the Grand Strands’ premier properties, with more than 10,000 rooms, efficiencies, suites, condos
and vacation homes, and meeting spaces to accommodate groups
from 5 to 250.
The 330-room Ocean Reef Resort Hotel with 4,900 sq. ft.
of meeting space offers wireless internet access, an oceanfront
restaurant and lounge, indoor pools, outdoor pools, a waterslide
and more. Accommodations range from standard oceanfront
rooms and efficiencies to one-, two-, three- or four-bedroom
condominiums with full kitchens.
The 667-room Breakers Resort is located in the heart of Myrtle
Beach and offers 5,000 sq. ft. of meeting space with a 15th floor
oceanfront ballroom, wireless internet access, an oceanfront
bar and grille, a breakfast restaurant, Starbucks coffee and Ben
& Jerry’s ice cream. The property features four outdoor pools,
three indoor pools, a lazy river and the Pirate Ship splash deck.
Accommodations include standard rooms, efficiencies, mini suites,
suites and two- and three-bedroom condos with full kitchens. The
Breakers is just two blocks from the Myrtle Beach Convention
Center and the new Myrtle Beach Sports Complex.
Caribbean Resort & Villas offers 451 guestrooms, suites, two-,
three- and four-bedroom condos with full kitchens, 800 sq. ft.
of meeting space, wireless internet access, a lounge, indoor and
outdoor pools, an oceanfront waterpark and lazy rivers. The Sea
Captain’s House restaurant is located directly next door featuring
breakfast, lunch and dinner daily as well as the best seafood dishes
along the Grand Strand.
Ocean Reef Resort Hotel
The Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort offers 511 guestrooms,
suites, two- and three-bedroom condos with full kitchens, 625
sq. ft. of meeting space, wireless internet access, the Ocean Bar
& Grille, a breakfast restaurant, 26 pool and water features and
a dual waterslide. Compass Cove Oceanfront Resort is on the
southern end of Myrtle Beach strand and is just two miles from
Myrtle Beach International Airport.
Long Bay Resort offers 292 guestrooms, suites and threebedroom condos with full kitchens, 900 sq. ft. of meeting space,
wireless internet access, an oceanfront tiki bar, two restaurants,
Starbucks coffee, indoor pools, outdoor pools and a lazy river.
The 4-Diamond North Beach Plantation and The Cottages
at North Beach Plantation are located in North Myrtle Beach.
The Oceanfront Towers feature more than 300 luxurious one-,
two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom oceanfront condos with full
kitchens. The Bridge at North Beach is a 7-bedroom, 7-½ bath,
5,200 sq. ft., two-story condominium that spans between the
Jasmine and Indigo Towers. The towers are also home to a café
restaurant and a 2-½ acre oceanfront waterscape with a swim-up
pool bar and private cabanas. The Cottages at North Beach
Plantation feature one-bedroom carriage homes, two- and threebedroom villas and three-, four- and five-bedroom luxury homes,
some offering their own private pool. The Plantation House at
North Beach is home to 21 Main Steakhouse, Cinzia Spa and an
events center with 2,800 sq. ft. of meeting space.
Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort is a hidden gem of the Carolina
Coast. The resort is perfectly located in the beautiful Litchfield
Beach/Pawleys Island section of the Grand Strand and features
more than 20,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, wireless internet
access, a waterpark area, bike rentals and more. Accommodations
include oceanfront rooms and condos, scenic condos, fairway
cottages and villas, a full-service spa and salon, Webster’s
restaurant, a fitness center and three on-site golf courses.
It’s not about the journey. It’s about the destination.
Up Close and Personal
Ric Coates
Vice President of Sales
Myrtle Beach Destination Meetings
Myrtle Beach, S.C.
844.309.1455
[email protected]
myrtlebeachhotels.com
Litchfield Beach & Golf Resort
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 15
Green Venues
Florida
Tennessee
Virginia
Venue
What’s Green
HILTON KEY LARGO
Key Largo, Florida
Sales Department
305.852.5553
keylargoresort.com
Total Sq. Ft.: 17,000 sq. ft.
of flexible meeting space
Nestled on 13 acres of tropical forest at the edge
of the Everglades, Hilton Key Largo Resort is
committed to keeping our environment beautiful
and healthy. A few of our efforts include training
from the DEP to all team members; digital
newspapers for guests; recycling bins for staff
and guests; purchase of 30 percent or higher
post-consumer content for all paper products;
linen and towel reuse programs; use of low-flow
faucets, showerheads and toilets; and Floridafriendly landscaping.
SANDESTIN GOLF AND BEACH RESORT
Destin, Florida
Staci Stover
National Sales Manager
850.267.8253
[email protected]
sandestin.com/cf
Number of Meeting Rooms: 29
Total Sq. Ft.: 65,000
Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, the #1
destination on Florida’s Emerald Coast, continues
its efforts to go green through a number of
programs including water conservation, energy
conservation, nature preservation, linen reuses,
recycling and other environmentally friendly
practices. Sandestin can also tailor and offer
various environmentally friendly programs
based on groups’ needs. For group and
meeting information, call 855/660-0934 or visit
sandestin.com/cf.
Venue
What’s Green
KNOXVILLE CONVENTION CENTER
Knoxville, Tennessee
Teresa Hall
Director of Administration
800.727.8045
[email protected]
visitknoxville.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 24
Total Sq. Ft.: 500,000
Certified LEED Silver for existing buildings. Green
efforts include: single stream recycling, ecofriendly cleaning products, local and organic foods
with emphasis on farm to table, energy efficient
lighting, heating and chillers. Solar panels on roof
of building. Entire staff grows organic herbs on
site to use for attendees. Convention center is
located in Knoxville, Tenn., a solar city with many
green and sustainability initiatives.
Venue
What’s Green
GREATER RICHMOND CONVENTION CENTER
Richmond, Virginia
Linné DiIorio, Director of Sales & Marketing
804.783.7335
richmondcenter.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 36, plus exhibit hall
Total Sq. Ft.: 700,000
We are proud to be a Virginia Green
certified lodging facility. The green program
at the Greater Richmond Convention Center
focuses on recycling, waste reduction, water
efficiency, energy conservation and the use of
green cleaning products and recycled paper
products. This environmental commitment
is actively communicated to meeting and
event planners as well as to visitors, who
are encouraged to participate in our green
practices.
NEWPORT NEWS TOURISM
DEVELOPMENT OFFICE
Newport News, Virginia
Cheryl Morales, Marketing Manager
888.493.7386
[email protected]
newport-news.org
Number of Guestrooms: More than 2,500 citywide
Number of Meeting Rooms: 51 citywide
Total Sq. Ft.: 54,127 citywide
Since 1990, Canon Virginia in Newport News
has created socially responsible programs that
respect the environment. Additional efforts
were made in 1998, when the Newport News
Green Foundation was established. When
Virginia Green was founded in 2008, it was
a natural progression for our partners in the
tourism industry to work toward certification.
Newport News—an environmentally friendly
place to live, work and play!
16 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
D
E
T
Myth
S
U
B
Five Green Meeting Myths: Busted!
Association Meeting Planners Conduct a “Sustainability
Smackdown” to Bury Five Myths During ASAE
Springtime Expo by Kristen Clarke
G
reen meetings have been popular for years, but a few people
still seem to need convincing that sustainability is smart
business.
Enter the ASAE Convene Green Alliance (CGA), which
hosted a “Sustainability Smackdown: Mythbusting for Green
Meeting Skeptics and Procrastinators” at the May 15, 2014,
ASAE Springtime Expo at the Walter E. Washington Convention
Center in Washington, D.C.
Seeded with heckling actors, the session tackled five common
myths about green meetings and—led by then CGA Director
Kristin Clarke—featured “mythbusters” Bridget Chisholm,
conference director of the International Leadership Association,
and Cheryl Wallen, meeting planner for the Association of
Zoos & Aquariums. The speakers shared a gavel and compelling
arguments to show how any organization can take advantage of
green meeting practices to generate valuable ROI.
“Created in a funky format, this fun session sought to kill
outdated green meeting assumptions related to areas such as
budgeting, workloads, actual impact analysis and attendee
attitudes,” Clarke says. “I still hear such excuses used by meeting
planners who are new to the industry or who have not kept up
enough in their professional field to realize that sustainability is
no longer a trend but a constant. They don’t understand or they
underestimate just how robust and positive the ROI from a good
sustainable meeting strategy can be.”
MYTH #1: GREEN MEETINGS COST MORE.
Chisholm busted this myth by asking, “What are we concerned
about? What costs so much? If it was 1984, maybe cost would
be a deal breaker. But it’s 2014! It doesn’t cost any more to use
a LEED-certified facility or sustainable lanyards. And what is
more expensive about serving locally crafted beer or wine? Even
tomatoes grown locally cost the same or are cheaper and often are
much better-tasting than tomatoes grown elsewhere. Also, tote
bags with recycled content might have cost more 10 years ago but
not today. People always assume there is a green premium, but
that’s generally not true anymore. You need to ask.”
Clarke, who was sharing results of a 2013 CGA survey on
association involvement in green meetings, also suggested
looking at the total bottom line rather than going line by line.
She noted that adjustments can be made to even out expenses
such as offsetting slightly higher prices for organic food against
cost savings of, say, switching from plastic water bottles to water
stations or sponsored reusable bottles.
Another tip she mentioned is to work with the food and
beverage department well in advance of a meeting to leverage
strong relationships between the chef and local farmers,
negotiating better food pricing by identifying what’s in season
(and is therefore cheaper) and ensuring access to sustainable
ingredients.
MYTH #2: GREEN MEETINGS ARE A HASSLE BECAUSE
SUSTAINABILITY DECISIONS ADD TO MY WORKLOAD.
Wallen and other meeting planners have found that working
with local partners can save time and easily tap local expertise on
such issues as recycling or composting regulations and community
service opportunities while offering solutions that will be popular
with members who increasingly expect or ask for sustainable
events.
“The hospitality community of hotels, convention centers and
other vendors that support meetings already has taken much of
the work and expense out of greening conferences by pioneering
innovations and boosting access to eco-friendly operations and
opportunities. Increasingly, they get it—and so do associations.
It’s a learning curve for everyone, but those on the ground are
usually very knowledgeable and eager to help,” said Clarke.
MYTH #3: MY ATTENDEES/VENDORS/EXHIBITORS DON’T
CARE ABOUT GREEN MEETINGS.
Wallen busted this myth by noting, “My members don’t give
me a choice about green meetings. When you have ‘wild places’
in your mission statement, you have to pay attention to the
environment.”
She cited studies that show people do care. “Seventy-five percent
of the public recycles, so your attendees are recycling at home and/
or at the office,” Wallen said. “Why would your conference be any
different? Our members will hold onto a piece of paper until they
find a recycling bin to put it in. It’s also just the right thing to do.
Surveys of the impact of waste on the environment demonstrate
that. We have a green mission logo next to everything we do that
is green.”
According to the CGA survey, 64 percent of CGA members
and ASAE meeting professionals reported that sustainability is
fairly to critically important to their booking decisions, so these
leaders clearly do “care” that they reflect the public’s greener
attitudes and obtain the maximum ROI from doing so.
MYTH #4: OUR MEETINGS ARE SMALL, SO WE CAN’T MAKE
AN IMPACT WITH GREEN MEETINGS.
“You don’t think you are able to create change when you are
small, but those collective asks across the country are making a
difference,” Chisholm said. “How did LEED certification get
started? People asked for it. Even small meetings can boost the
local economy and the livelihoods of local farmers.”
“Small meetings are the fastest-growing segment of the meetings
industry,” Clarke noted. “The impact when you add them all
together becomes quite formidable.”
continued on page 20
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 17
In
News
Hyatt veteran Brian Kramer
has been appointed general
manager at Hyatt Regency
Coconut Point Resort & Spa
in Bonita Springs, Fla. With
over 25 years of hospitality
Brian Kramer
experience, Kramer most
recently served as general manager of Hyatt
Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
in Clearwater, Fla. Kramer joined Hyatt in
1989 as the overnight folio runner at Grand
Hyatt New York. Over the years, Kramer
carried different operational roles in various
Hyatt hotels throughout North America.
Kramer was named general manager at Hyatt
Regency Long Island in 2006.
The Omni Royal Orleans
hotel in New Orleans is
pleased to announce that
the international network of
WHERE travel magazines,
WHERE New Orleans, has
recognized Julie Yates, the
Julie Yates
hotel’s business travel sales
manager, as Sales & Marketing Person of the
Year during its 23rd Annual Silver Plume
Awards. Recipient of the 4-diamond luxury
award for the past 31 years, the Omni Royal
Orleans is known for its superior customer
service, state-of-the-art meetings technology
and elegant and spacious function space.
Greg DeSandy has joined
the Cobo Center in Detroit,
Mich., as its new director
of sales. DeSandy brings
30 years of sales experience
in convention center and
Greg DeSandy
hotel facilities with such
organizations as Marriott,
Radisson and Westin Hotels & Resorts,
and most recently the Augusta Georgia
Marriott and Augusta Convention Center.
DeSandy works closely with the Detroit
Metro Convention Visitors Bureau sales
team and area hospitality partners. Working
with Cobo Center’s governing authority,
the Detroit Regional Convention Facility
Authority (DRCFA) that is in the final phase
of its $279 million renovation, DeSandy
provides leadership and coaching to the
sales team with his core belief in continuous
improvement.
One Ocean Resort & Spa
is pleased to announce the
promotion of Jennifer
Dahlberg to group sales
manager. Previously,
Dahlberg served as corporate
catering sales manager at the
Jennifer Dahlberg
resort, and she achieved 100
percent of the annual sales goal within 11
months of joining the team. In her new role,
Dahlberg will maximize revenue through
prospective group sales opportunities,
handling all association, organization and
high-tech group room business. Working
closely with the sales and marketing team,
Dahlberg will continue to maintain current
relationships while developing new clientele
and generating awareness for the resort.
The New Orleans Ernest
N. Morial Convention
Center has named Melanie
J. Rice sales manager. Rice
is responsible for developing
and servicing clients in the
West Coast and technology
Melanie J. Rice
markets. She will also work
closely with the New Orleans Convention
& Visitors Bureau on prospects to generate
business for the Convention Center. With
solid skills in management, social business
and client development, Rice has excellent
experience and knowledge in hospitality, sales
marketing management and global sales. Rice
received the B.S. degree from Fisk University
and the M.B.A. from Vanderbilt University.
Salamander Hotels &
Resorts has appointed Reggie
Cooper general manager of
Salamander Resort & Spa,
located outside Washington,
D.C., in the historic village
of Middleburg, Va. Cooper
Reggie Cooper
joins the acclaimed 168-room
resort after a notable hospitality management
career, which includes nearly a decade spent
as managing director of Canyon Ranch in
Lenox, Mass., where he was recognized for
his role in developing the resort’s noted spa
and wellness programming. Cooper also
previously spent nine years at Topnotch
Resort and Spa in Stowe, Vt., where he
served as president and general manager
of the Mobil 4-Star and AAA 4-Diamond
property.
Parool K. Shah has joined
Sheila Donnelly & Associates
as vice president to lead
strategic, integrated campaigns
for the established agency’s
global clientele. With 22
years’ experience promoting
Parool K. Shah
world-renowned hospitality,
luxury goods and lifestyle brands, she
has led efforts in media and community
relations, reputation management, brand
development, strategic partnerships,
digital media and more. Most recently,
Parool spent seven years with The RitzCarlton Hotel Company, directing public
relations strategy for 44 properties in the
Americas. Manhattan-born and raised in
North Carolina and Los Angeles, Parool
received the B.A. in journalism and mass
communications from the University of
North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Kevin Regan, director of
corporate and incentive sales
for Silversea Cruises, was
elected chair of the Hospitality
Partner Advisory Council
(HPAC) at the Financial
and Insurance Conference
Kevin Regan
Planners (FICP) annual
conference held in Hawaii. FICP provides
access to education, experience and resources
targeting the needs of financial services and
insurance meeting planners from across
North America. HPAC represents suppliers
who partner with FICP and provides advice
and guidance to FICP’s board of directors on
issues related to the hospitality industry.
Hilton Worldwide has
announced the appointment
of David Shepherd as general
manager of Hilton Atlanta
Airport. Shepherd began his
hospitality career in 1980 with
Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
David Shepherd
He was director of operations
for the Westin William Penn Hotel in
Pittsburgh, and he worked for Omni Hotels
in Atlanta, Jacksonville, Pittsburgh, Charlotte
and Detroit. In 2005, he was named general
manager of the Wyndham Secaucus (N.J.)
before taking on leadership in Sanibel, Fla., at
Sundial Beach and Golf Resort. From 2010
until April 2014, Shepherd led the team at
the Embassy Suites at Centennial Olympic
Park in Atlanta.
continued on page 29
18 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Meetings
at a GLANCE
Alabama
Florida
Georgia
Louisiana
Mississippi
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
West Virginia
It’s all right here.
Alabama
continued from page 17
VON BRAUN CENTER
700 Monroe Street
Huntsville, AL 35801
Contact: Marie Arighi, CHSP, CMP
Director of Sales & Marketing
Phone: 256.551.2379
Fax: 256.551.2221
[email protected]
vonbrauncenter.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 25
Total Sq. Ft.: 170,000
Largest Meeting Capacity: Theater-10,000;
Banquet-5,000; Classroom-6,700;
Exhibit/Meeting-600
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, High-Speed
Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
Located in the heart of historic
downtown and just a short drive from
the international airport, the Von Braun
Center is convenient to area hotels,
Marie Arighi
restaurants and attractions. With more
than 170,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose meeting space,
the VBC features a team of experienced professionals
and many in-house services, including food and
beverage, exhibitor services and audio-visual,
making this a one-stop shop for all your event needs.
MYTH #5: I DON’T KNOW MUCH ABOUT GREEN MEETINGS.
“Talk to your convention and visitors’ center, convention center, hotel and other
local partners; they have plenty of information,” said Chisholm. “And you’ll find
plenty of online resources.”
“You don’t have to go by any particular standards to green your meeting,” Clarke
added, “but they can be helpful to use as simple checklists or goal-setting tools.”
D
E
T
Myth
S
U
B
GETTING STARTED
Besides myth-busting, the speakers also offered practical advice on getting started
with green meetings.
“You don’t have to do everything,” said Clarke. “Once you take your first green
meeting action and hopefully track what you are doing and its impact, it becomes
easier for future meetings. Holding ‘paper-free’ and ‘paper-lite’ meetings are good
first steps. The fear that people will object to this has generally not materialized.
People are more digitally oriented and are more comfortable using meeting apps.
Running a recycling program is also an easy thing to do. People are used to this and
will appreciate having it.”
Holding meetings in facilities committed to sustainable meetings also is critical to
making green meetings easy, creative and cost-effective.
“Choosing a sustainable venue is the top thing that planners want to do,” Clarke
said. “Convene Green is always urging planners to ask about sustainability on their
RFPs, something that about 85 percent of CGA members report doing.”
About the Author
Kristin Clarke is a longtime business journalist and editor for ASAE: The Center for
Association Leadership. She is also director of social responsibility and former director of
ASAE Convene Green Alliance. In September 2014, CGA merged with the association
community’s Power of A Campaign, which is headquartered at ASAE and exists to
demonstrate the value of associations to society.
Florida Association Groups to Merge in Tallahassee
Two of Florida’s largest organizations serving the association industry
will soon become one. Tallahassee Society of Association Executives
(TSAE) and the Florida Society of Association Executives (FSAE)
will join forces in 2015 under the FSAE brand. They bring together
hundreds of professionals working in the association sector and more
than 400 organizations in the Tallahassee area alone.
Although TSAE has a larger membership base, FSAE’s reach
includes the entire state of Florida. Many association professionals
belong to both, and both are headquartered in Tallahassee.
“This is exciting. It’s a perfect way to strengthen Florida’s association
industry and better position us to serve the members in the next
decade,” says Gena Matthews, CMP, president of TSAE.
The two associations formed a task force in June to look at options,
and then the boards forged an understanding on the merger that will
be finalized in early 2015. Details on member services, benefits, career
advancement and events are being worked out by the two boards.
“The opportunity to form one large organization and represent
association professionals throughout Florida and especially Tallahassee
with one voice is a game changer,” says Frank Rudd, president/CEO
of FSAE and a longtime member of both organizations.
As details are finalized, more information will be available on the
websites of tallysae.org and fsae.org.
FSAE CEO Retreat at South Seas Resort on Captiva Island
FSAE Membership ROI Summit, October 2014
20 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Florida
EXPERIENCE KISSIMMEE
215 Celebration Place, Ste. 200
Kissimmee, FL 34747
Contact: Janet Jones
Senior Sales Representative
Phone: 800.831.1844
[email protected]
meetinkissimmee.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 311
Total Sq. Ft.: 1.1 million
Guestrooms: 50,000 (all varieties)
Banquet: 178,500 sq. ft.
When you’re thinking Florida, think
Kissimmee. Conveniently located next
to Orlando and close to everything,
Kissimmee offers an impressive variety
Janet Jones
of venues, excellent accommodations,
easy access to major roadways and Orlando
International Airport, and world-famous
entertainment your attendees dream about. Ask
about our It Pays to Meet in Kissimmee incentive
program, which can earn you up to $1,500.
To learn more, visit 1500.meetinkissimmee.com.
Awards & Recognition
HOLIDAY INN TAMPA WESTSHORE
700 North Westshore Boulevard
Tampa, FL 33609
Contact: Connie Paul, Director of Group Sales
Phone: 813.288.3610
Fax: 813.287.8275
[email protected]
tampahi.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 16
Total Sq. Ft.: 16,500
Guestrooms: 256; Suites: 16
Largest Meeting Capacity: Theater-600;
Banquet-540; Classoom-360;
Exhibit/Meeting-Varies
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business Center,
Fitness Facility, High-Speed Internet Access,
Lounge, Outdoor Pool, Restaurant, Wireless
Internet Access
Holiday Inn Tampa Westshore Airport has
reinspired its property with an $8 million
renovation. Located in the heart of Tampa’s
Westshore business district, Holiday Inn’s renovated
meeting space, including its brand new ballroom
with an outdoor function area, is perfect for every
event. From the front door, the hotel is just two
miles from Tampa International Airport and a few
minutes’ drive to Downtown Tampa, the convention
center, the cruise port, the aquarium and Tampa’s
cultural attractions.
WALT DISNEY WORLD SWAN & DOLPHIN
1500 Epcot Resorts Boulevard
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Contact: Gino Marasco
Director of Sales
Phone: 407.934.4290 • Fax: 407.934.4880
[email protected]
swandolphinmeetings.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 84
Total Sq. Ft.: 329,000
Guestrooms: 2,267 • Suites: 169
Largest Meeting Capacity: Theater-6,457;
Banquet-3,700; Classoom-4,047;
Exhibit/Meeting-110,500 sq. ft.
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business Center,
Fitness Facilities-2, High-Speed Internet Access,
Lounges-6, On-Site Exposition Services, Outdoor
Pools-5, Restaurants-17, Spa Treatments, Tennis
Courts-4, Wireless Internet Access
A recipient of the prestigious Meetings &
Conventions Hall of Fame Award, the Walt Disney
Swan and Dolphin Resort is a nationally respected
and recognized leader in the convention resort
arena. Ideally located in the heart of Walt Disney
World, the resort offers 2,267 guestrooms and more
than 329,000 sq. ft. of meeting and convention/
exhibit space.
Upcoming Events
Florida Association/Business Professionals Receive Prestigious
Leadership Awards
FSAE presented its most prestigious leadership awards at its recent annual conference held at
the Hilton Orlando. The Executive of the Year award honors an association executive who has
displayed the highest commitment to professional growth and dedication to advancing the
association management profession. The Associate of the Year award honors an association
supplier whose dedication and leadership also advances the industry. FSAE’s Rising Star award
honors a member who contributes significant time and talent to ensure FSAE’s continued
success. This year, FSAE was pleased to present the Rising Star award to two extremely
deserving candidates as an Executive Rising Star and an Associate Rising Star representing
potential leadership in both membership categories.
The award winners for 2014 are:
• Executive of the Year: Rusty Payton, CAE, MBA, COO, Florida Dental Association
• Associate of the Year: Meg Caldwell, CMP, Sales Manager, Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa
• Executive Rising Star: Adrienne Bryant, CAE, Member Information & Database Manager, Association of Florida Colleges
• Associate Rising Star: Jason Carroll, CMP, Director of Sales & Events, The Florida Aquarium
February 16, 2015
FSAE CEO Roundtable
FSU Conference Center
Tallahassee, Fla.
July 15-17, 2015
FSAE Annual Conference
Renaissance Vinoy Resort
St. Petersburg, Fla.
Learn more at fsae.org.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 21
Georgia
THE INN AT SEA ISLAND
ALBANY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
112 North Front Street
Albany, GA 31701
Contact: J.D. Sumner, Sales Manager
Phone: 229.317.4760 • Fax: 229.317.4765
[email protected]
visitalbanyga.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 14
Total Sq. Ft.: 14,298
Guestrooms: 1,890
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-10,540;
Banquet-1,200; Classroom-960;
Exhibit/Meeting-29,192 sq. ft.
Experience meetings and conventions “Southwest
Georgia-style”! We strive to exceed your expectations
with personalized customer service. Let us help you
plan your event and offer suggestions for unique
outings! Check us out at visitalbanyga.com.
100 Salt Marsh Drive
St. Simons Island, GA 31522
Contact: Amanda Biffle
Sales Manager
Phone: 912.634.4318 • Fax: 912.638.5159
[email protected]
Number of Meeting Rooms: 1
Total Sq. Ft.: 630
Guestrooms: 85
Largest Room Capacity: Classroom-25
Onsite Information: A/V Services, Business Center,
Fitness Center, Golf Course (54 holes), Outdoor
Pool, Spa Treatments, Wireless Internet Access
The Inn is located minutes from Sea Island Golf
Club, Sea Island and St. Simons’ historic sites
and beaches, and provides casual, comfortable
accommodations, complimentary continental
breakfast and wi-fi services. Off-site meeting
space 1.3 miles away at Retreat Clubhouse to
accommodate up to 200 guests is also available.
TURNER FIELD
755 Hank Aaron Drive
Atlanta, GA 30315
Contact: Sabrina Jenkins
Director, Special Events
Phone: 404.614.2343 • Fax: 404.614.1569
[email protected]
turnerfieldspecialevents.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 8
Total Sq. Ft.: 400,600
Suites: 4
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-300;
Banquet-400; Classroom-200;
Exhibit/Meeting-100-150 vendors
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Wireless
Internet Access
Envision your next event at Turner Field, and share
in the excitement of being in one of America’s finest
ballparks and event facilities. With more than
24,000 sq. ft. of exquisitely renovated event space,
Turner Field is perfect for any occasion. Whether
it’s a corporate outing, meeting, social occasion or
team-building event—Turner Field will help you
make it an event to remember!
UPCOMING EVENTS
GSAE’s Emerging Leader Award to be
Renamed to Honor Sharon Hunt
In order to recognize the contributions of GSAE
member and Past President Sharon Hunt, CAE, the
GSAE board of directors voted in July to rename the
Emerging Leader Award in her honor. Throughout
her career, Sharon has made significant contributions
Sharon Hunt
to our industry, especially in the areas of mentorship
and education. GSAE members are encouraged to
make a donation to the GSAE Foundation in honor of Sharon to allow GSAE
to continue to innovate and provide valuable education for its members.
Live Webinars—Approved for 1 CAE Hour
Learn more and register for live and on-demand webinars at gsae.org (Learn/Live Webinars).
22 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
GSAE’s calendar offers more than 25
hours of CAE-matched programming
this year. GSAE has been approved for
Preferred CAE Provider status through
the CAE Commission. Our list of
events is always available online at gsae.
org (Learn/Calendar View). Various
Shared Interest Group meetings will be
added throughout the year.
February 18, 2015
Luncheon - Sponsorship
opportunity available
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta
Downtown Hotel
April 15, 2015
Luncheon - Sponsorship
opportunity available
Sonesta Gwinnett Place
Learn more at gsae.org.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
eorgia
LGouisiana
SPECIAL EVENTS at
AUDUBON NATURE INSTITUTE
HOUMA-AREA CONVENTION &
VISITORS BUREAU
LAFAYETTE CONVENTION &
VISITORS COMMISSION
LOUISIANA’S NORTHSHORE/
ST. TAMMANY PARISH
New Orleans
Phone: 504.212.5301
Fax: 504.212.5434
auduboninstitute.org/events/private
Unique venues - Audubon
Aquarium, Audubon Zoo,
Audubon Tea Room and
Audubon Clubhouse. Our
first-class service and excellent
on-site culinary department
have earned us the reputation
as a leader in the New
Orleans hospitality field.
Audubon Catering is the only
certified Green Caterer in
Louisiana.
1400 NW Evangeline Thruway
Lafayette, LA 70501
Contact: Karen Primeaux
Phone: 337.232.3737
Fax: 337.232.0161
[email protected]
lafayette.travel
Lafayette is a city built upon partnership, a strong
work ethic and old-fashioned goodwill. When you’re
looking for a place to hold a meeting or an event,
we’ll be the first with an outreached hand. We know
you’re not looking for just a room, tables or chairs—
you’re looking for a partner.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
INTERCONTINENTAL NEW ORLEANS
114 Tourist Drive
Gray, LA 70359
Contact: Angela Morehead
Convention & Event Sales Manager
Phone: 985.868.2732
Fax: 985.868.7170
[email protected]
houmatravel.com
Guestrooms: 1,800+ (parish-wide)
Only an hour south of New Orleans, conventioneers
will find themselves immersed in the hospitality of
the Bayou Cajuns. In addition to state-of-the-art
meeting facilities, Houma offers a unique cultural
experience for all attendees. Visitors will discover
good people, good food and, of course, good times.
68099 Highway 59
Mandeville, LA 70471
Contact: Tanya Leader, VP Sales
Phone: 985.892.0520 • 800.634.9443
Fax: 985.892.1441
[email protected]
louisiananorthshore.com
facebook.com/ExploreLouisianaNorthshore
twitter.com/LANorthshore
Number of Meeting Rooms: 20+
at various venues
Total Sq. Ft.: 100,000
Guestrooms: 2,800+ parish-wide
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-2,200;
Banquet-1,400; Classroom-1,200;
Exhibit/Meeting-800
Louisiana’s Northshore has picturesque green spaces
and a diverse culinary scene. Hatch baby alligators
or feed a family of giraffes. Our one-of-a-kind
attractions will keep you coming back for more. And
the Northshore is within an hour of New Orleans,
Baton Rouge and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Visit
our website at louisiananorthshore.com.
444 St. Charles Avenue
New Orleans, LA 70130
Contact: Angela Matherne
Director of Sales & Marketing
Phone: 504.585.4353 • Fax: 504.585.4350
[email protected]
Number of Meeting Rooms: 12/25
Total Sq. Ft.: 30,000
Guestrooms: 484; Suites: 31
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-600;
Banquet-640; Classroom-525;
Exhibit/Meeting-50 10x10 booths
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business Center,
Fitness Facility, High-Speed Internet Access,
Outdoor Pool, Restaurants-2, Wireless Internet
Access
With a $26 million rejuvenation, the
AAA 4-Diamond award-winning
InterContinental New Orleans boasts
484 upgraded guestrooms, more than
30,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, a
Angela
revamped old favorite, Pete’s, and a
Matherne
brand new restaurant concept, Trenasse,
from the shores of Florida and the kitchen of famed
chef, Jim Richard.
NORTHSHORE HARBOR CENTER
100 Harbor Center Boulevard
Slidell, LA 70461
Phone: 985.781.3650
Fax: 985.781.3649
[email protected]
northshoreharborcenter.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 5
Total Sq. Ft.: 45,000
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-2,000;
Banquet-1,000; Classroom-800;
Exhibit/Meeting-141 8x8 booths
On-Site Facilities: Ample Free Parking, A/V
Services, Floor Boxes (including electricity, phone,
water and data ports), High-Speed Internet
Access, On-Site Catering Available, Wireless
Internet Access
The perfect venue for events of all sizes. Located
between New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, close to
I-10, I-12 and I-59. Featuring 18,000 sq. ft. of
flexible event space, with meeting and events experts
at your service.
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 23
The
The newly
newly renovated
renovated MSU
MSU Riley
Riley Center
Center combines
combines Old
Old World
World grace
grace with
with
cutting-edge
cutting-edgetechnology.
technology.No
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venueininthe
theSoutheast
Southeastcan
canmatch
matchits
itsaudio/visual
audio/visual
capabilities
capabilities and
and sheer
sheer versatility
versatility for
for conferences,
conferences, meetings,
meetings, oror private
private functions.
functions. In
In
addition,
addition,this
thisbeautifully
beautifullyrestored
restoredopera
operahouse
houseregularly
regularlyplays
playshost
hosttototop
toptalent
talentsuch
suchasas
B.B.
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andMerle
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settingthat
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whether
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theMSU
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Centerisissure
suretotoaccommodate
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everyneed.
need.
Nearly 20 different meeting spaces can
accommodate as few as 20 people or as many
as 1,000. Seven meeting rooms, two of which
can be combined, provide workhorse spaces
that can be set up in a variety of configurations.
Ranging in size from 700 to 1,030 square feet,
they’re ideal for small to medium-size groups
or for breakouts during larger gatherings.
In both the two boardrooms and the
classroom, natural light streams through
arched windows, lending a cheery, open feel to
the cozy settings. The boardrooms work well
for discussion sessions or intimate receptions.
The classroom features four long, sweepingly
curved tables, set in theater-style tiers for
optimum sightlines.
The staff at the Riley Center prides itself on
delivering spectacular service. The Conference
Sales Manager works with conference planners
on everything from food and beverages to
transportation and lodging. The staff also
includes a full-time Conference Event Planner
who can coordinate entertainment, décor, and
anything else that’s required.
For more information about meetings
at the MSU Riley Center, contact:
Conference Sales Manager Michele Thames at
601-696-2203 or [email protected]
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 25
Mississippi
Historic MSU Riley Center
Offering state-of-the-art meeting spaces
S
tate-of-the-art technology wrapped in historic elegance—that’s
the MSU Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts,
a distinctive meetings venue at the heart of the Southeast in
Meridian, Mississippi.
The MSU Riley Center, a versatile conference and performingarts facility, occupies a set of grand buildings constructed in 1889
and carefully restored a century later. The graceful architecture
sets the stage for the understated opulence of the interior. The rich
ambience conveys to all attendees that this is, indeed, a special
meeting worthy of such a special place.
In the two boardrooms and the classroom, natural light streams
through arched windows, lending a cheery, open feel to the cozy
settings. The boardrooms work well for discussion sessions or
intimate receptions. The classroom features four long, sweepingly
curved tables, set in theater-style tiers for optimum sightlines.
The Riley Center also includes several expansive all-purpose
spaces that can become whatever a meeting planner wants.
The 5,200 sq. ft. Exhibit Hall can handle up to 400 people for
receptions. The 2,500 sq. ft. Studio Theater and two theater
lobbies also provide open spaces that can serve a wide range
of functions.
And nothing gives dramatic impact to general sessions, awards
ceremonies and keynote speeches like the splendid Grand Opera
House theater, a stunning Victorian showplace. The stage can even
be set up as a uniquely glamorous banquet hall.
The Riley Center works hard to stay on the cutting edge
of audio-visual technology and recently completed a major
technological upgrade provided by a grant from The Riley
Foundation. Each room features a 90-inch high-definition LCD
display, a Blu-ray DVD player, a Peavey MediaMatrix® control
and sound system, a high-speed wireless network, live internet
streaming, integrated presentation/recording capabilities and the
ability to videoconference—including videoconferencing from
room to room within the Riley Center. The facility even offers
26 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
The MSU Riley Center, Meridian, Mississippi
production, duplication, broadcasting capabilities, theatrical
lighting and sound, and full technical consultation and assistance.
The staff at the Riley Center prides itself on delivering
spectacular service. The conference sales manager works with
conference planners on everything from food and beverages to
transportation and lodging. The staff also includes a full-time
conference event planner who can coordinate entertainment,
décor and anything else required.
The MSU Riley Center stands in historic downtown Meridian,
a central location that’s easily accessed by air, road and even rail.
Interstate highways 20 and 59 intersect here. Several excellent
restaurants are within an easy
Up Close and Personal
walk, including Mississippi’s
oldest, Weidmann’s, a casually
upscale establishment that has
been a delicious tradition since
1870. Just across the street from
the Riley Center is Dumont
Plaza, a green oasis perfect for
a quick fresh-air-and-sunshine
Michele Thames
Conference Sales Manager
break.
Mississippi State University
Meridian has a full range
Riley Center for Education
of lodging properties to suit
and Performing Arts
Meridian, Miss.
every budget and amenities
601.696.2203
preference. The Riley Center
[email protected]
can make any necessary in-town
msurileycenter.com
transportation arrangements.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Mississippi & North Carolina
VISIT MISSISSIPPI
BEAU RIVAGE GOLF & RESORT
CRYSTAL COAST CIVIC CENTER
NEW BERN RIVERFRONT CONVENTION CENTER
SHERATON RALEIGH HOTEL
TWIN CITY QUARTER - MARRIOTT,
EMBASSY SUITES & BENTON
CONVENTION CENTER
501 North West Street, Ste. 501
P.O. Box 849
Jackson, MS 39205-0849
Contact: Whitney Orr
Program Manager, Meetings and Conventions
Phone: 601.359.3297
Fax: 601.359.5757
[email protected]
visitmississippi.org
Visit Mississippi can assist meeting
planners with a variety of meeting
services and expert advice. Check
out our Incentive Program and RFP
services at visitmississippi.org or
Whitney Orr
call 1-888-MEET-4-MS for a free
meeting guide.
203 South Front Street
New Bern, NC 28560
Contact: Mary Harris, Director
Phone: 252.637.1551 • Fax: 252.637.0250
[email protected]
visitnewbern.com/groups_and_conv.php
Number of Meeting Rooms: 7
Total Sq. Ft.: 29,800
Guestrooms: 400+ within walking distance
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-1,350;
Banquet-1,000; Classroom-770;
Exhibit/Meeting-130 exhibits
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business Center,
High-Speed Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
The New Bern Riverfront Convention
Center can accommodate groups up to
1,350 and features a 12,000 sq. ft.
ballroom, breakout meeting rooms,
pre-function space and exhibit space.
Mary Harris
Enjoy fabulous views of the Neuse and
Trent rivers from the center’s waterfront veranda.
Event planners and coordinators will find the New
Bern Riverfront Convention Center is the perfect
location for their next trade show, meeting, reunion,
wedding or special event.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
649 Rivage Promenade
Wilmington, NC 28412
Contact: Bonnie Quattlebaum, Hotel Manager
Phone: 910.392.9021 • Fax: 910.392.6166
[email protected]
beaurivagegolf.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 4
Total Sq. Ft.: 3,000
Guestrooms: 28; Suites: 28
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-1,000;
Banquet-800; Classroom-400;
Exhibit/Meeting-125
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Bar, Business Center,
Conference Room, Golf Course (18 holes),
High-Speed Internet Access, Lounge, Olympic
Pool w/65 ft. Tiki Bar, Pro Shop, Restaurant, Tennis
Courts (2), Wireless Internet Access
Our plantation-style clubhouse features more than
5,000 sq. ft. of meeting and banquet space. Our
main ballroom, overlooking the championship golf
course, has the capacity to accommodate formal
banquet seating for up to 250 guests, or up to 350
standing. Beau Rivage can accommodate a variety
of banquet layouts, depending on the type of event
and number of guests attending. Groups of any size
can find accommodations to fit every need.
421 South Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
Contact: Kevin Johnson
Director of Sales & Marketing
Phone: 919.834.9900 • Fax: 919.833.6342
[email protected]
sheratonraleigh.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 14
Total Sq. Ft.: 18,000
Guestrooms: 347; Suites: 6
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-500;
Banquet-420; Classroom-300;
Exhibit/Meeting-35
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business Center,
Fitness Facility, High-Speed Internet Access,
Indoor Pool, Lounge, Restaurants (2), Wireless
Internet Access
Get lost in the lights and sounds of
downtown Raleigh. The Sheraton
Raleigh Hotel is less than a block from
the Raleigh Convention Center and
just a leisurely walk from the state
Kevin
Capitol, museums, restaurants and
Johnson
nightlife. Fresh off our $5 million renovation; come
and experience our new urban loft atmosphere.
3505 Arendell Street
Morehead City, NC 28557
Contact: Tina Purifoy, Director
Phone: 252.247.3883 • Fax: 252.247.5386
[email protected]
crystalcoastcivicctr.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 9
Total Sq. Ft.: 20,000
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-1,000;
Banquet-800; Classroom-400;
Exhibit/Meeting-125
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, High-Speed
Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
Located on the banks of the Intracoastal
Waterway, the Crystal Coast Civic
Center provides an impressive backdrop
for all occasions. This unique 20,000
Tina Purifoy sq. ft. venue is located in the heart of
the North Carolina Crystal Coast and
is close to all attractions, including Atlantic Beach.
With more than 700 hotel rooms and hundreds of
rental properties in the area, groups of any size can
find accommodations to fit every need.
425 North Cherry Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: Alexandra Polychron Collins
Sales Manager
Phone: 336.728.4022 • Fax: 336.728.4020
[email protected]
twincityquarter.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 54
Total Sq. Ft.: 170,000
Guestrooms: 309; Suites: 152
Largest Capacity: Theater-4,822; Banquet-2,400;
Classroom-1,500; Exhibit/Meeting-250
8x10 booths
Twin City Quarter includes the
Marriott Winston-Salem, Embassy
Suites Winston-Salem and the Benton
Convention Center. Located just four
Alexandra blocks off Interstate 40, the complex
is connected to approximately 1,500
Collins
parking spaces. Within an easy walk is
the city’s Restaurant Row featuring everything from
micro-breweries and pubs to Thai, subs and continental cuisine.
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 27
South Carolina
FLORENCE CONVENTION & VISITORS
BUREAU/FLORENCE CIVIC CENTER
3290 West Radio Drive/3300 West Radio Drive
Florence, SC 20501
Contact: Jade Perkins, Convention Services
Phone: 843.664.0330 • Fax: 843.665.9480
[email protected]
visitflo.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 3 (plus arena and
ballroom)
Total Sq. Ft.: 50,000
Guestrooms: 3,408; Suites: 475
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-9,150;
Banquet-1,400; Classroom-1,100;
Exhibit/Meeting-330
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, High-Speed
Internet Access, Restaurant, Wireless Internet
Access
The Florence CVB is happy to assist with meeting
planning for the Florence area, at the intersection
of Interstates 95 and 20. The Florence Civic Center
accommodates meetings of all sizes. The 30,000
sq. ft. arena can be adjoined by meeting rooms to
offer a total of 50,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose space.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND VISITOR
& CONVENTION BUREAU
P.O. Box 5647
Hilton Head Island, SC 29938
Contact: Jack Reed, Director of Sales
Phone: 843.341.8361 • Fax: 843.785.7110
[email protected]
hiltonheadisland.org
Hilton Head Island is a 12-milelong subtropical barrier island. The
island’s heritage includes Civil War
battles, rich Gullah culture and
the distinction of being the first
Jack Reed
ecologically planned community in
the country. The island offers enticements including
beautiful conference resorts and easy air and drive
accessibility. Hilton Head is known for its wide,
hard-packed beaches and a fiercely protected
natural environment.
IndustryDevelopments
SPRINGMAID BEACH RESORT
3200 South Ocean Boulevard
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
Contact: Pam Reis, Director of Sales
Phone: 843.315.7003 • Fax: 813.315.6145
[email protected]
springmaidbeach.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 23
Total Sq. Ft.: 35,000
Guestrooms: 491; Suites: 10
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Catering, Fitness
Facility, General Store, High-Speed Internet
Access, Indoor Pools (2), Mini Golf, Outdoor
Pool, Restaurants (2), Wireless Internet Access
Bring your next group or meeting
to the largest oceanfront conference
center in Myrtle Beach. Our beautiful
setting; experienced, service-oriented
staff; and flexible, spacious facilities
Pam Reis
will make the perfect setting for your
next event. Recently we were voted “Best Resort
on the Grand Strand” by the Destination Guide.
The resort has won the Trip Advisor Certificate of
Excellence Award in 2012 and 2013.
continued from page 11
ACVB Inducts Hall of Fame Members
Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) recently gathered with
Atlanta’s hospitality leaders for the 16th Annual Atlanta Hospitality
Hall of Fame. The reception honored individuals who have made
outstanding contributions to the growth and well-being of Atlanta’s
hospitality industry. The 2014 Hospitality Hall of Fame inductees are:
• M. Alexis Scott, journalist, Atlanta Daily World
• J.W. Marriott Jr., executive chairman and chairman of the board, Marriott International
• Ken Jefferson, event services manager, Georgia Dome
• James Barto, senior sales manager, Hilton Atlanta (posthumous)
“The 2014 Atlanta Hospitality Hall of Fame class represents decades
of dedication to our industry,” said William Pate, president and CEO,
ACVB. “Jim Barto, Ken Jefferson, Bill Marriott and Alexis Scott have
each made an impact on our city’s hospitality industry, and it is our
honor to recognize them for their commitment to Atlanta. Their efforts
continue to make our city a top travel destination.” atlanta.net
Chris Womack, chairman of the board, ACVB; David Marriott, son of J.W. Marriott
Jr.; Alex Barto, son of James Barto; Ken Jefferson, event services manager, Georgia
Dome; M. Alexis Scott, journalist, Atlanta Daily World; and William Pate, president
and CEO, ACVB
Send your news to Convention Forum™, [email protected]. Let us know when you hire new staff, promote someone or win an award.
Also tell us about new properties or renovations to existing ones. Help Convention Forum™ spread the good news—about you!
28 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Tennessee and Texas
MEMPHIS COOK CONVENTION CENTER
255 North Main Street
Memphis, TN 38103
Contact: Nicole Seltzer
Director of Convention Center Sales
Phone: 901.576.1253
Fax: 901.576.1212
[email protected]
memphisconvention.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 31
Total Sq. Ft.: 300,000
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-10,000;
Banquet-7,140; Classroom-7,140;
Exhibit/Meeting-650 10x10 booths
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, High-Speed
Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
In the heart downtown Memphis, the Memphis
Cook Convention Center has 300,000 sq. ft. of
functional space designed especially for conventions,
trade shows and the performing arts. Smack dab
on the Memphis Trolley Line and within walking
distance of numerous hotels, attractions and worldfamous Beale Street.
In
BEAUMONT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
505 Willow Street
Beaumont, TX 77701
Contact: Freddie Willard,Director of Sales
Phone: 409.880.3160 • Fax: 409.880.3750
[email protected]
beaumontcvb.com/meetings
Number of Meeting Rooms: 53 (citywide)
Total Sq. Ft.: 230,000 (citywide)
Guestrooms: 3,500 (citywide)
Largest Room Capacity (Ford Park Event Center):
Theater-4,860 (exhibit hall); Banquet-3,240
(exhibit hall); Classroom-9,000 (arena);
Exhibit/Meeting-83,000 sq. ft. (exhibit hall &
arena combined)
On-Site Facilities (citywide): A/V Services,
Business Center, Fitness Facility, Golf Course (18
holes), High-Speed Internet Access, Indoor Pools,
Lounges, Outside Pools, Restaurants (160),
Spa Treatments, Wireless Internet Access
Beaumont, Texas, meeting and
events are booming! With two large
convention centers, 3,500 sleeping
rooms and two full-service convention
hotels—it’s surprising that it’s the little
Freddie Willard
extras that have planners gushing.
Book Beaumont and expect impeccable service,
outstanding hospitality and a CVB ready to exceed
your expectations and deliver an outstanding
meeting experience.
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
1500 Broadway, 6th Floor
Lubbock, TX 79401
Contact: Amy Zientek, Director of Sales
Phone: 806.747.5232 • Fax: 806.747.1419
[email protected]
visitlubbock.org
Total Sq. Ft.: 300,000
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, High-Speed
Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
Lubbock is carving out a dominant
role in the West Texas landscape,
offering more than 5,300 hotel
rooms, a 300,000 sq. ft. civic center
and a variety of meeting spaces to
Amy Zientek
accommodate groups of any size.
Lubbock offers true West Texas hospitality with
the conveniences of a larger city. Enjoy professional
convention planning assistance and complimentary
services.
continued from page 18
News
Ginny Izydore has been
appointed regional sales
manager at Barnsley Resort, just
north of Atlanta. With more
than 30 years of experience in
the hospitality industry, Izydore
will be responsible for building
Ginny Izydore
relationships and growing
corporate meeting and group event business.
Izydore previously served as director of
member relations for the Southern Living
Hotel Collection, of which Barnsley Resort
is a founding member. Prior to that, she was
director of Atlanta sales and marketing for
Reynolds Plantation on Lake Oconee. She
also launched the sales and marketing efforts
for Blackberry Farm and The Cloister on
Sea Island, as well as served a successful 10
years at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.
VISIT LUBBOCK
Richmond Region Tourism
is pleased to welcome Kristin
McGrath as vice president of
sales and services. McGrath
comes to Richmond,
Va., from the Providence
Warwick Convention &
Kristin McGrath
Visitors Bureau in Rhode
Island, where she has worked since 2005,
most recently serving as vice president of
sales and services. During her tenure at
the Providence Warwick CVB, she also
held the roles of national sales manager
and director of sales. As vice president of
sales and services, McGrath is responsible
for enhancing and developing the region’s
convention services package and generating
qualified lead sources for the sales team.
Michael DiLeone has joined
Georgia’s Lanier Islands as
its new director of sales. He
brings with him more than
20 years of success in sales
and marketing management
for the retail and hospitality
Michael DiLeone
industries. His resume
includes companies and properties such as
Salant Corporation, Campus Outfitters,
Crowne Plaza Hotel North Phoenix (Ariz.),
Radisson Resort and Spa in Scottsdale
(Ariz.), Daufuskie Island Resort in Hilton
Head (S.C.), Innisbrook Resort and Golf
Club in Palm Harbor (Fla.) and most
recently The Beach House in Hilton Head
(S.C.), among others.
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 29
Tennessee
Knoxville Convention Center
Southern hospitality. Downtown
sophistication. Outdoor adventure.
T
he Knoxville Convention Center is the cornerstone of
Knoxville’s meeting facilities. This beautiful 500,000 sq. ft.
gathering space is perfectly positioned alongside the picturesque
landscape of World’s Fair Park, between the urban core of the city
and the campus of the University of Tennessee. The facility is the
first convention center in Tennessee to be Green certified through
the Tennessee Green Hospitality Certification program and is
now LEED Silver certified by the U.S. Green Building Council.
The Knoxville Convention Center’s staff specializes in providing
guests with a turnkey experience complemented by the highest
level of customer satisfaction. Ample ballroom, exhibit and
meeting spaces, on-site catering, A/V and decorator services and
a professional, friendly staff make the KCC the ideal site for
gatherings of all kinds. Just ask any of the millions of attendees
from more than 80 countries who have attended events here.
The Convention Center is located just minutes from Market
Square, the heart of Knoxville’s vibrant and walkable downtown.
This popular area is home to eclectic shopping, fine dining,
outdoor concerts and more.
Why Knoxville? The city offers hundreds of acres of adventure
opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including an Urban
Wilderness located only three miles from downtown. This 1,000
The Knoxville Convention Center is an SMG-managed facility.
acre urban playground connects parks, trails, civil war sites and
recreational amenities. Bikes, canoes and standup paddleboard
rentals are all available.
Location. Location. Location.
Up Close and Personal
Knoxville is situated at the
crossroads of three major interstates,
I-75, I-40 and I-81, and is within
a day’s drive of nearly half the U.S.
population. The Great Smoky
Mountains National Park is located
just 45 minutes away.
Jennifer Morris
These reasons and more are why Senior Director of Sales and Services
Visit Knoxville
more and more people are planning
Knoxville, Tenn.
to gather at The Crossroads in
800.727.8045
Knoxville. To learn more, contact
visitknoxville.com
[email protected] or call
[email protected]
800.727.8045.
For a virtual tour of this site, visit conventionforum.com or sign up for our new, expanded digital version that includes slide shows and videos.
For more information, email us at [email protected].
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 31
Virginia and West Virginia
COMING THIS SPRING
2015
GREATER RICHMOND CONVENTION CENTER
403 North Third Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Contact: Linné Dilorio
Director of Sales & Marketing
Phone: 804.783.7335 • Fax: 804.225.0508
[email protected]
richmondcenter.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 36, plus exhibit hall
Total Sq. Ft.: 700,000
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-12,186;
Banquet-8,500; Exhibit-892 10x10 booths
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business
Center, Cyber Café, Food Court, High-Speed
Internet Access, On-Site Parking, Visitors
Center, Wireless Internet Access
The Greater Richmond Convention
Center is Virginia’s largest meeting and
exhibition facility. The contemporary
venue is conveniently located in the
heart of downtown Richmond and
Linné
Dilorio
features a 178,159 sq. ft. exhibit hall,
a 30,550 sq. ft. grand ballroom, 50,000 sq. ft.
of additional meeting space and a 258 fixed-seat,
auditorium-style lecture hall. Call today for more
information or to book the Greater Richmond
Convention Center for your next event!
SUMMERSVILLE ARENA & CONFERENCE
CENTER
3 Armory Way
Summersville, WV 26651
Contact: Marianne Taylor
Executive Director
Phone: 304.872.3722 • Fax: 304.872.0901
[email protected]
summersvillearena.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 7
Total Sq. Ft.: 24,000 arena,
3,715 conference center
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-800;
Banquet-500; Classoom-20;
Exhibit/Meeting-80 vendors
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, High-Speed
Internet Access, On-Site Caterer,
Wireless Internet Access
Centrally located in the beautiful
mountains of West Virginia and the
perfect spot for conferences, meetings,
sporting events, trade shows and
banquets. More than 500 guestrooms
Marianne
available in surrounding hotels. Each
Taylor
event customized to meet your needs.
Beauty, adventure, history and relaxation await you
in the friendly town of Summersville.
Volume 8, Issue 5
Se r vin g Me e tin g Pr o fe ssio n a ls Th r o u g h o u t Th e So u th e a st
O
Years
Convention Forum’s
10th Anniversary
Double Issue
Show off your venue’s
nostalgic pictures for then
and now!
Email us at
[email protected]
Spring 2013
EXPAND
YOUR SPACE
Sign up for our Expanded
Digital Magazine that includes
videos and slide shows.
For more information,
email us at editor@
conventionforum.com
or visit our website at
conventionforum.com.
32 conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum
Featuring the Georgia World Congress Center
Enhance Your People Skills
in the Workplace
Successful Meetings Tip:
Help Elected Officials Look Good
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Affordable Meetings
Battle House Renaissance Mobile
Hotel & Spa
The history, culture and southern
hospitality that is Mobile
O
ur AAA 4-Diamond historic hotel in Mobile, Alabama, is a member of Historic
Hotels of America and a top choice among Mobile Bay hotels, and it is conveniently located near the Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center. Top attractions near
the hotel include the Gulf Coast Exploreum & Imax, the Museum of Mobile, the
Carnival Museum and the Entertainment District. Discover the “birthplace of Mardi
Gras”! Let us build you an affordable meeting package, and let your attendees enjoy
the history, culture and southern hospitality that is Mobile!
Up Close and Personal
Kim Jackson
Director of Sales & Marketing
Battle House Renaissance
Mobile Hotel & Spa
Mobile, Ala.
[email protected]
www.renaissancehotels.com/mobbr
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 33
Affordable Meetings
Alabama’s Golf Resorts Offer
Great Meeting Venues
at a Real Value
G
olf Digest knows. So do the readers of GolfWorld and
Travel + Leisure. The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail not only
has great golf at a value, but it also has luxury resorts and hotels
ideal for both meetings and leisure travel.
With world-class hotels built for meetings and their proximity
to great golf on the RTJ Trail, Alabama is a leading option for
affordable yet upscale meetings. Information on each of the eight
hotels is below and online at pchresorts.com.
Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa
Point Clear, Ala.
Since 1847, the Grand has maintained a gracious tradition of
southern hospitality along Mobile Bay. The Grand Hotel
is a family-friendly historical hotel that is 167 years young and
was named a top family resort by Travel + Leisure, Zagat and
Southern Living. With 405 luxurious guestrooms and having some
of Marriott’s best spas, golf courses and pools, the Grand Hotel
is now grander than ever. The resort has 37,000 sq. ft. of meeting
space.
The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa
Mobile, Ala.
Built in 1852, the Battle House in Mobile has been restored to all
its original grandeur. The Battle House reopened in 2007 and has
been named one of the Top 500 Hotels in the World by Travel +
Leisure. The 238 gracious guestrooms, new spa and historic lobby,
restaurant and ballrooms make Battle House the perfect location
for meetings. The hotel has 35,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and is
connected to RSA Battle House Tower.
See ad on page 36
Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel
Mobile, Ala.
A prime downtown location with a covered walkway to the
Mobile Convention Center makes the Renaissance Riverview Plaza
a favorite for business guests. The 373 plush guestrooms are as
popular as the hotel’s views of Mobile Bay. Renaissance Riverview
Plaza features 32,000 sq. ft. of versatile meeting, banquet and
exhibit space.
Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa
at the Convention Center
Montgomery, Ala.
The Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention
Center opened in 2008. The hotel features 346 luxurious rooms,
several restaurants and bars, an 1,800-seat performing arts center
and a spa. Renaissance Montgomery includes a newly renovated
and expanded convention center. The hotel complex has more
than 100,000 sq. ft. of meeting space.
See ad on back cover
For a virtual tour of this site, visit conventionforum.com or sign up for our new,
expanded digital version that includes slide shows and videos. For more information,
email us at [email protected].
CONVENTION FORUM • FALL 2014
Ross Bridge Golf Course
Montgomery Marriott Prattville Hotel and Conference Center
at Capitol Hill
Prattville, Ala.
Located 10 minutes from Montgomery, this hotel includes 95
total guestrooms. The hotel features 20,000 sq. ft. of event space,
including 19 venues, a new ballroom and a covered terrace. The
hotel overlooks the 54 holes of championship golf at Capitol Hill.
Named the #2 site for public golf in the country by Golf World
readers, this RTJ site hosts the Navistar LPGA Classic.
Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel and Conference Center
at Grand National
Opelika, Ala.
The Auburn Marriott Opelika at Grand National has 114
guestrooms and 15 luxury suites. This hotel has 15,000 sq. ft.
of technology-equipped event space, a business center and a
96-seat amphitheater. A new feature pool and tennis complex
were completed in 2012. The adjacent Grand National golf
complex was named the #1 location for public golf in the
country by GolfWorld readers.
Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa
Birmingham, Ala.
Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa was named One of
the Top 500 Hotels in the World by Travel + Leisure magazine in
2008. This 4-diamond resort has 259 guestrooms, with balconies
overlooking the third longest golf course in the world. Ross Bridge
has 20,000 sq. ft. of function space ranging from a large ballroom
to a smaller, distinctive boardroom.
Marriott Shoals Hotel & Spa
Florence, Ala.
Overlooking the Tennessee
River, the Marriott Shoals
Hotel & Spa continues to
be a Marriott leader for
guest satisfaction. The 200
guestrooms have private
balconies and riverfront views.
The resort features a revolving
restaurant and 30,000 sq. ft. of
meeting space. The Marriott
Shoals Hotel & Spa is a short
distance from two new RTJ
Golf Trail courses.
Up Close and Personal
Kevin Hellmich
Area Director of Marketing
Resort Collection on Alabama’s
Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
251.990.6322
[email protected]
pchresorts.com
conventionforum.com • facebook.com/conventionforum 35
· Mobile Bay ·
AFFORDABLE MEETINGS IN INCREDIBLE LOCATIONS
When planning your next event, consider your options. Whether you are searching for a place with contemporary flair, classic style
or inspiring history, three of Mobile Bay’s top hotels promise to meet your expectations, not to mention going above and beyond.
The Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa has been entertaining business and leisure guests since 1847 and
its rich history provides a unique experience on its own. Equally as interesting is The Battle House Renaissance Mobile
Hotel & Spa. Built in 1852, this hotel has served as the social center of Mobile. A short walk from The Battle House is
the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel, offering incredible accommodations and world-class service. These three
locations allow you to enhance your itinerary with 2 award winning European-inspired spas and 2 world
class Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail sites, not to mention 2 AAA 4 diamond restaurants. Call today to tailor
your event to fit your schedule with the options you prefer.
Part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail
251.438.4000
renaissanceriverview.com
251.928.9201
marriottgrand.com
251.338.2000
rsabattlehouse.com