Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa

Transcription

Serving Meeting Professionals Throughout The Southeast
Summer 2013
A Condé Nast Top U.S. Resort
Hilton Sandestin Beach
Golf Resort and Spa
Cutting Edge Technologies
All Meeting Planners Should Embrace
Serving Meeting Professionals Throughout The Southeast
Contents
Convention Forum • Summer 2013
G olf , R esorts
and
S pas
5 Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa
Your Best Meeting of the Year Awaits!
A Truly Unique Experience
8 Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Features
6
9 Cheeca Lodge & Spa
A Taste of the West Indies in Florida
Cutting-Edge Technologies
All Meeting Planners Should
Embrace
by Joe Heaps and Dave Reed
9 Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
10
S mall -M edium M eeting V enues
11 Harborside Event Center
The Perfect Venue
At Harlow’s, Your Event Becomes a Memorable Occasion
Successful Meetings Tip:
Dress for the Occasion
by Patricia Fripp
22
Are You Treating Employees
Like They Don’t Matter?
by Christine Comoford
12 Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa
13High Point Convention & Visitors Bureau
Please, Make Yourself at Home in High Point, N.C.
T he M eeting P rofessionals ’ D irectory
of S ites & D estinations
Departments
4
14
19
Publisher’s Message
In the News
Industry Developments
North Carolina
24 Facility Listings
Alabama
17 Tuscaloosa Tourism
and Sports Commission
Florida
1 8 Facility Listings
South Carolina
Tennessee
27 Gatlinburg Convention Georgia
Louisiana
and Visitors Bureau
Texas
Virginia and West Virginia
29 VisitNorfolk
Mississippi
On the Cover: Hilton Sandestin Beach
Golf Resort & Spa; Miramar Beach, Florida
We thank all the state and city CVBs throughout the Southeast for contributing photos as needed to our publication.
ISSN 1556-1097 © 2013 Convention ForumTM is published by MAVERICK MARKETING LLC
P.O. Box 700241, St. Cloud, FL 34770-0241; 407/891-9941; FAX: 407/891-9985
conventionforum.com
Publisher: Maverick Marketing
Copy Editor: Susan Trainor
CONVENTION FORUM • SUMMER 2013
Creative Director: Tina Robers
3
Fromthe Publisher
Your Best Meeting of the Year!
T
hat is the point, right? Each time you plan a meeting, your hope
is it will be the “best one yet.” Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf
Resort and Spa knows a little something about best meetings, and we
are pleased to feature this lovely beachfront property in Northwest
Florida. The folks at Hilton Sandestin are happy to share what they
know about best meetings on page 5 of this edition of Convention
Forum™. And you’re reading this at the best possible time. Hilton
Sandestin Beach offers seasonal meeting specials August through
December, when the fall temperatures average between 69 and 82
degrees. Can you think of anything better than a warm fall getaway to the beach?
If your attendees love golf, the spa and/or resort life, we have three additional destinations
from which to choose, on pages 8 and 9. The Marina Inn at Grand Dunes in Myrtle Beach,
S.C., has been a AAA 4-Diamond award winner since the year after it opened in 2006,
and the resort offers two 18-hole golf courses. Cheeca Lodge in Islamorada, Fla., offers an
international flair with its West Indies styled accommodations and 27 lush oceanfront acres.
And did I mention the 5,000 sq. ft. spa? We also feature the Sonesta Resort Hilton Head
Island in South Carolina. When they say it’s “all new,” they mean it. From the guestrooms
to the ballroom to the outdoor Oceanfront Pavilion, Sonesta Resort is sporting a brand new
look. And your golfing attendees will love the 27 holes of championship golf!
If you’re looking for a more intimate venue for your next best meeting, then take a look
at our Small-Medium Meeting Venues section on pages 11-13. There we profile Harborside
Event Center in Fort Myers, Fla., Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa in Greenville, Miss., and
High Point Convention & Visitors Bureau in North Carolina.
While you’re planning your next best meeting, don’t forget a meeting planner’s best friend,
technology. O.K., maybe you don’t view technology as your best friend, but where would we
be without it? Joe Heaps and Dave Reed share their cutting-edge expertise with us on page 6.
The spring edition of Convention Forum™ included tips from our friend Patricia Fripp on
how to make your leaders look good when they take to the stage. Patricia continues with
her good advice, and this time her “making your leaders look good” tips are literal as she
interviews image consultant Diane Parente on how to help your leaders dress for the occasion.
Did you know the rules differ for men and women? For tall people and short people? Are you
curious? Then turn to page 10 to learn more!
And now I want to ask you a rather personal question: Are you treating employees like they
don’t matter? I am sure your answer is no, but take a look at Christine Comoford’s article on
page 22 to see if you could be making your employees feel less than appreciated. Even the best
bosses will benefit from Christine’s insights into that tricky thing we call human behavior.
Our Meeting Professionals’ Directory on pages 15-29 profiles more sites and destinations
for your next best meeting. Will you meet in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana,
Mississippi, North or South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia or West Virginia? The
choice is yours, and we have provided all the particulars so you can begin making your plans.
Here’s to your next best meeting,
Michelle M. Cyr
Maverick Marketing LLC
P.S. Like us on Facebook, facebook.com/conventionforum.com, and be sure to visit
conventionforum.com where you can click on “Find a Venue” and “Destination Showcase”
to find more possibilities for your next best meeting.
4
PUBLICATION
Maverick Marketing LLC
P.O. Box 700241
St. Cloud, FL 34770-0241
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]
Mindy Fischer
404/680-9138
[email protected]
Laura Horn
404/680-9138
[email protected]
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.
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.
Golf, Resorts & Spas
Your Best Meeting of the Year
Awaits!
W
hile any time is a wonderful time to visit Florida’s Emerald
Coast, fall is a particularly enchanting time to meet and
mingle against the incomparable backdrop of the Gulf Coast’s
remarkable sugar-white sands and sparkling emerald-green waters!
After the hustle and bustle of a busy summer, Hilton Sandestin
Beach offers signature seasonal meeting specials, which make
August through December the best time to book at the beach.
With fall weather averaging between 69 and 82 degrees, the
weather along Florida’s beautiful Gulf Coast is at its finest. It’s
an ideal time for outdoor team-building activities, a group golf
outing, beachside events on one of Hilton Sandestin Beach’s
expansive decks or a little downtime between meetings to relax,
enjoy the beach and refresh and reengage tired minds.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa, a Condé Nast
Top U.S. Resort and Top 20 Florida Golf Resort, is N.W.
Florida’s largest full-service beachfront resort and the South’s
premier destination for group events. The resort recently
completed an elaborate renovation and unveiled beautifully
redesigned meeting spaces. The renovation transformed the
32,000 sq. ft. of award-winning, flexible indoor space into an
unparalleled venue with large and small meeting facilities capable
of accommodating more than 2,000 guests. The resort also
features 20,000 sq. ft. of outdoor gathering spaces framed by
incredible beach views for every guest.
Located near Destin, Fla., and convenient to three regional
airports, this area is called the Emerald Coast for its remarkable
sugar-white sands and emerald-green waters. The property’s 598
rooms and suites offer a variety of accommodations. Guests enjoy
the expansive deck overlooking the Gulf, casual to 4-Diamond
dining, indoor and outdoor pools and a multitude of resort
activities and amenities including the indulgent Serenity by
the Sea Spa and Seagars Prime Steaks & Seafood, Destin’s only
AAA 4-Diamond restaurant, featuring all prime steak selections,
unique seafood dishes, tableside preparations and a wine cellar
of more than 600 labels.
Recently named one of CVENT’s exclusive Top 100 North
American Meeting Resorts, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort
& Spa offers a singular
blend of work, play
Matthew Price
and stay for any type
Director of Sales & Event Planning
of meeting. Call
Hilton Sandestin Beach
Golf Resort and Spa
850/267-9600 or visit
Miramar Beach, Fla.
hiltonsandestinbeach. Matthew
Price
850/267-9600
com/meeting today
hiltonsandestinbeach.com/meeting
to plan your perfect
[email protected]
meeting.
5
Cutting-Edge Technologies
All Meeting Planners Should Embrace
by Joe Heaps and Dave Reed
W
hen you ask most meeting planners what kind of
technology they typically use at their events, they’ll
reply with things like “using a big screen for main stage events”
or “PowerPoint projectors for every breakout session.” Those
things are important, but they are just the tip of the iceberg
when it comes to meeting planner technology.
Unfortunately, many meeting planners (aside from those who
specialize in the tech industry) shy away from technology. They
may be familiar with some of the new technologies available,
but they don’t use them consistently and end up missing out
on important opportunities. If you don’t embrace
and use technology in every event you plan,
your attendees will notice and will find
ways to use the technology without
you. Therefore, the sooner you embrace your technological options, the
better all your events will be.
Listed below are a few of the
technologies to consider using as you
plan your next event. Some are best when used
before the event to help you prepare so everything comes
together smoothly; others are designed to be used during the
event.
Linked
Three PRE-Event Technologies
1. Interact with your speakers in a Google Hangout.
Communication with the speaker(s) about the event’s goals is
critical. Good speakers will tailor their messages to meet your
needs. But rather than communicate with your speakers just via
phone and email, interact with them before the event (and even
have them interact with each other) to ensure everyone understands the meeting’s goals.
With a tool like Google Hangout, you can have up to 10 people on a video conference. Use this to build rapport between the
speakers and the entire event team so your conference projects a
truly unified and cohesive image to the attendees.
6
2. Use social media to promote your event.
Tweet about your upcoming meeting on Twitter and add status updates about it to Facebook and LinkedIn. Additionally,
ask your speakers to provide a pre-event video where they talk
to the attendees about the upcoming event and what to expect
from their sessions or keynotes. Post these videos all over your
social media to generate publicity and to encourage more people to register.
3. Make your event materials mobile-friendly.
Stop handing out printed event materials! Instead, make
your program and handouts available online as
a PDF download. This enables attendees to
have all the materials available on their
tablets or smartphones, and they don’t
have to worry about losing pieces of
paper. Also, create a mobile app for your
event that includes access to all the meeting’s handouts. It’s easier and less expensive
than you think!
Five DURING-Event Technologies
1. Internet access is a must!
Many hotels offer free internet access in the lobby or in the
guestrooms, but they don’t offer it for free in the conference
areas. As a result, many meeting planners decide not to offer
internet access, believing it’s not necessary. Big mistake! If
your attendees can’t access the internet, post a tweet or even
check their email, they’ll leave the conference area to do so …
and they may not return. If the hotel is going to charge you
for internet access in the conference area, then find a sponsor
to pay for it. Remember, a great event starts with attendees
being able to have access to their lives via email, the web and
social media.
2. Video conferencing/webcasting can expand your reach.
Sometimes people want to attend your event, but they can’t
Keeping the audience awake during presentations is
one thing, but getting the audience to participate is a
whole different ball game.
for various reasons. Rather than lose their registrations, why
not have them attend the meeting virtually? They will still pay
a registration fee, but they will attend via a service like Telenect
(telenect.com), Omnovia (omnovia.com) or Webex (webex.
com). You can also use these technologies to forgo the physical
meeting altogether and conduct the entire event virtually.
3. Garner audience participation by implementing an
audience response system (ARS).
Keeping the audience awake during presentations is one thing,
but getting the audience to participate is a whole different ball
game. Encourage your speakers to go beyond using the old
“raise your hand” or “talk to the person sitting next to you”
participation techniques. Instead, have them create a conversation with attendees by using some sort of audience response
system (ARS). The best known ARS is the voting keypad, such
as what’s available with Turning Technologies (turningtechnologies.com). There are also some emerging new apps like
Join Speaker (joinspeaker.com) that don’t require a special
device. Rather, the attendees use their smartphones or tablets to
interact. Turning passive audience members into active participants is key since it creates value for the attendees and for the
conference. Simply put, it increases the ROI.
4. Encourage attendees to use Twitter during meetings.
Create several Twitter hashtags—a general one that applies to
the industry or the organization, as well as individual ones that
are specific to each presentation, breakout session or keynote.
A hashtag is simply the hash (#) symbol followed by a word or
an acronym used to group related tweets. Make these hashtags
known and encourage attendees to use Twitter for their
note-taking (using the hashtags as they tweet). Since Twitter
allows only 140 characters per tweet, people will need to summarize the content concisely, which is actually a benefit. According to researchers, summarization helps boost retention.
Even people who don’t use Twitter can post tweets and follow
the conversation using a tool like Twubs (twubs.com). This
tool also enables you to moderate the posts and do live event
streaming.
5. Keep smartphones on to promote texting.
Rather than ask attendees to power off their smartphones,
encourage them to leave them on and text the presenter as he
or she is speaking. This will dramatically increase audience
participation. For example, leadership expert Cheryl Cran
asks her audiences to text her messages while she delivers her
content. Audience members then text her questions and she
answers them throughout her keynote and training events. This
approach takes away the fear attendees may have of
publicly asking a question.
Power Up Your Meetings
To create a successful event—one
that encourages
conversations
and interactions
between the event’s
organizers, speakers and
attendees—you must use
technology. Whatever technology you choose to implement,
take the time to prepare by knowing your audience and the expected
outcomes for your event. Then
choose the technology that will help
you reach your objectives.
Remember, the ultimate goal of
each meeting is to influence your participants. Therefore, don’t use technology simply because it’s exciting or cool. Use it wisely, based on your objectives, and make
sure it’s part of your long-term strategy. When used correctly,
technology will enhance your event, making both you and your
organization successful.
Joe Heaps and Dave Reed own eSpeakers.com, a
14-year-old technology and marketing company
providing the speaking industry with the tools
to do business online. Their newest product,
eSpeakers Marketplace, is the largest directory
of professional presenters available online.
With real-time availability, verified reviews,
Dave Reed
Joe Heaps
online contracts and digital payment, putting
the right speaker in front of your audience will
be easy and safe. eSpeakers believes in helping meeting planners find the right
speaker with the right message ... every time. For more information on eSpeakers
Marketplace, contact Joe Heaps at [email protected] or 888/377-3214, or
visit marketplace.espeakers.com.
7
Marina Inn at Grande Dunes
A Truly Unique Experience
I
magine 2,200 lush acres of natural landscape on the northern
South Carolina coast with scenic views of waterways, the ocean
and nature surrounded by two championship golf courses and an
award-winning resort. This illusive place is not imaginary, but a
reality at the Grande Dunes Resort featuring the Marina Inn at
Grande Dunes!
Since the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes first began welcoming
visitors in November 2006, it has been recognized for its
outstanding service, sustainability efforts and exceptional
amenities, with top accolades including the AAA 4-Diamond
award consistently since 2007 and the 2012 & 2013 TripAdvisor
Certificate of Excellence—to name just a few. These recognitions
would not be possible without the professionalism and
commitment from the staff that consistently offers warm, sincere,
personal service in an elegantly casual ambiance.
For meetings and events, our 15,000 sq. ft. of unique indoor/
outdoor event and meeting space provides a magnificent
backdrop with dazzling views. There are several options from
which to choose, including our executive boardroom with
spectacular views for up to 15 people to our elegant Nautilus
Ballroom for meetings up to 500 and two additional breakout
rooms. The Grande Lawn and Loggia provide unique indoor/
outdoor space for up to 700.
With 200 guestrooms and villas, accommodation choices vary
from the large 450 sq. ft. guestroom to the 2,000 sq. ft. threebedroom villa. All accommodations offer an open terrace with
spectacular views of the pool, marina or golf course in warm, cozy
surroundings. Exceptional amenities include large bathrooms
with a separate shower and upscale amenities.
Relax at our private beach access offering beach umbrellas, chairs
and towels provided for all guests, as well as restrooms, showers
and an outdoor snack bar serving light dining, beer and wine.
Use of these amenities is available 24 hours daily—business
center, indoor/outdoor pools and whirlpools, sauna and fitness
facility. Additional included resort amenities are wi-fi throughout
the Marina Inn, daily newspaper, valet service and parking, and
transportation within Grande Dunes Resort.
Dining selections located on the Grande Dunes Resort are
unique and diverse, and range from casual to elegant. The awardwinning, casually elegant WaterScapes Restaurant is the Marina
Inn’s signature restaurant, specializing in fresh, locally sourced
cuisine. Ruth’s Chris is located beside the Marina Inn.
The Grande Dunes Resort is home to two of the finest 18-hole
golf courses in the country. The Members Club at Grande Dunes
is a private club available for Marina Inn guests. The Resort Club
at Grande Dunes is a top golf course destination in the Southeast.
The Myrtle Beach Airport is just eight miles away and provides
eight airline carriers with 23 nonstop destinations. Just outside
of the Grande Dunes Resort, the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes is
centrally located and just minutes from first-class entertainment,
dining and shopping.
If you can imagine all this as a perfect setting for your next
meeting or event,
Pamela Shelley
then know the
Director of Sales & Marketing
Marina Inn at
Marina Inn at Grand Dunes
Grande Dunes is
Myrtle Beach, S.C.
Pamela
the ideal location
843/913-1335
Shelley
for a truly unique
marinainnatgrandedunes.com
experience!
[email protected]
See ad on back cover.
8
A Taste of the West Indies
in Florida
Extraordinary events. Exceptional value.
O
New meeting packages and group rates from
$159 mid-week, available select dates now
through December 2013. Contact Group Sales
for details and availability.
305.266.5111 | cheeca.com | islamorada, florida keys
ffering luxurious
West Indies styled
accommodations and
located on 27 lush
oceanfront acres, Cheeca
Lodge & Spa is an easy
90 minutes from Miami.
From concierge-style
check-in to picturesque
venues and myriad options
for energizing activities and team-building, Cheeca is Florida’s
premier destination for first-class meetings and events. Groups up
to 100 enjoy flexible meeting space, four on-site dining options,
including the beachfront Tiki Bar, and a newly renovated 5,000
sq. ft. spa with butler-serviced pool cabanas. On-site activities also
include six tennis courts, nine holes of golf, two pools, a saltwater
snorkeling lagoon, a full line of water sports and more. Enjoy
the best group rates of the
year, now through December
Rhonda Denise Whitfield
Director of Group Sales
2013. Contact Group Sales at
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
305/266-5111 for details
Islamorada, Fla.
and availability.
305/266-5111 • 305/517-4452
cheeca.com
[email protected]
It’s All New at Sonesta Resort
Hilton Head Island
T
he all-new Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island has a fresh,
contemporary look featuring beautifully updated guestrooms,
plus 22,500 sq. ft. of redesigned indoor and outdoor meeting
space. Our exciting new meeting experience includes fresh décor
for our 10,000 sq. ft. Santee Ballroom, meeting rooms and boardroom, as well as the outdoor Oceanfront Pavilion with its 7,000
sq. ft. overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Set on 11 acres of lushly
landscaped beachfront property, the Sonesta Resort Hilton Head
Island is located within Shipyard Plantation, including amenities
such as the Shipyard Golf Club featuring 27 holes of championship golf. Adding to the beauty and character of these golf courses
are many lagoons and ponds for golfers to negotiate.
Our resort-wide renovation includes inspired public spaces, a
remodeled fitness facility and four newly christened restaurants
and lounges. The Sonesta Resort introduces Arum Spa, the newest
spa on Hilton Head Island. Offering a wide range of intoxicating
treatments enveloped in an ambiance that engages the senses,
calms the mind and lifts the spirit. To experience Sonesta’s unique
brand of southern
Jay Wiendl
hospitality, visit
General Manager
sonesta.com/
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
hiltonheadisland.
Hilton Head, S.C.
Jay Wiendl
843/842-2400
sonesta.com/hiltonheadisland
[email protected]
TAKE A LOOK
Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
is ready to amaze.
Our newly renovated beachfront resort features beautifully updated
guest rooms and 22,500 square feet of redesigned indoor
and outdoor meeting space for groups up to 800 guests.
Let Sonesta bring friendly service, “Food is Art” cuisine and
an authentic Lowcountry experience to your next meeting here.
843.842.2400
130 Shipyard Drive | Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Sonesta.com/HiltonHeadIsland
9923_SonHH_Convention_Forum_Ad.indd 1
9
6/14/13 2:27 PM
by Patricia Fripp, CSP, CPAE
with Diane Parente
Successful Meetings Tip:
Dress for the Occasion
While your elected leaders may be quite at home leading the annual board meeting,
public speaking may not be their favorite arena. Even the most seasoned of speakers
may experience jitters before opening meetings, introducing speakers, making
announcements or speaking on panels. Dressing for the occasion is critical. The
appropriate dress will positively affect your leader’s comfort and image. Because image
is so essential to a successful presentation, I asked image consultant and coauthor of
Mastering Your Professional Image, Diane Parente, for her advice. Here’s what she had to say:
PF: How can male association leaders have
more impact and power on stage when
they are not used to speaking? We want
them to look more confident and look at
ease on stage. We know that a lot of that
sense of presence comes from the way they
dress. Any advice?
Parente: First, concentrate on the selection
of the suit. Your leader should stand in
front of a mirror and check the fit of the
suit, how it looks on him and how the
colors coordinate with what he is wearing.
Also focus on proper tie selection. I suggest
he takes a quick cell phone photo so he can
evaluate more objectively how he dresses.
When addressing groups, most men wear
dark colors with light shirts. I recommend
they wear less contrasting colors and wear
an interesting patterned tie in colors that
match or complement the eyes.
PF: What advice do you have for
women—especially for the first woman to
be president or convention chairwoman
of her association? Women want impact
and want to dress for the prestige of their
positions.
Parente: A dark color is always appropriate, but women can get lost on stage in
black or navy. They can wear purple, red,
fuchsia or teal. I suggest a woman wears a
color with impact and that the color be a
carryover image from her stationery and
10
business card. It helps to keep with the
image she conveys in all of her marketing
materials.
Also important is to show a shape with
the cut of the suit. Next, be careful of
hemlines. When on stage the hemline
could appear too short. Make sure the suit
is a good fit around the waist and shoulders and that there is no buckling around
the chest area.
PF: If you are as short as I am, do you recommend that I wear all the same color?
Parente: Absolutely.
PF: For tall women, do you suggest wearing the same color?
Parente: No, I would break the colors up.
For example, Jeanne Robertson, who is
6’2”, can do almost anything. Tall people
often break up their colors because they
don’t want to intimidate other people.
To look more approachable, wear colors
like red or fuchsia or perhaps a dark skirt
at mid-knee. And wear low heels. Shoes
are important when you are on stage.
Keep the shoes and the hemline coordinated because the emphasis should be on
the face.
A tall person can wear a bright jacket
with a lightly patterned shirt or blouse
with two colors. A dark skirt will cut the
appearance of height by three or four
inches.
PF: If you are on a panel of six speakers,
what should you do differently?
Parente: I would dress to appear a bit
more approachable. I would not wear a
strong, dark color unless the other panelists are dressing in dark colors. If you are
part of a panel addressing a small group,
I would dress to seem more approachable
by wearing separates. For a woman, that
means a jacket with a skirt and top combination. For a man, I suggest a sports
jacket and slacks.
PF: Any other recommendations?
Parente: I always recommend that when
a woman wears a blouse or a sweater and
has to wear a little lapel mike, that she
puts lingerie straps inside the shoulders.
Also, tuck your blouse or sweater into
your undergarment to eliminate extra
bulk around the waist. And for tall or
long-waisted men whose shirts often
come untucked, I recommend they have a
tailor put Velcro strips into the waistband
of their pants. Strips of 2 or 3 inches in
length will keep the shirt neatly tucked in
throughout the day.
Patricia Fripp is an award-winning speaker, sales
trainer and speech coach who delights audiences,
transforms sales teams and shares her secrets for
powerful presentations. She is author of Make
It! So You Don’t Have to Fake It and Get What You
Want and contributing author to Speaking Secrets
of the Masters and Insights Into Excellence. She can be
reached at [email protected], 800/634-3035 or
fripp.com.
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center is apparent
the most intimate
flexibility of the venue.
of gatherings.
Harborside
Event Center
Harborside Event
offers
the
opportunity
to
Center offers
host
everything
from
large
42,000 sq. ft.
exhibitions,
concerts and
of exhibit and
sporting
events
event space
and to the most
intimate
of gatherings.
is fully wired
to
accommodate
Harborside
Event Center
the networking
offers
42,000 sq. ft. of exhibit and event
needs and
of our
Ourto
versatile
accommodate
space
is clients.
fully wired
seating
configurations
and
exhibit
space
the networking needs of our
clients.
comfortably
accommodate
multiple
Our versatile seating configurationsand
and
simultaneous events.
exhibit space comfortably accommodate
From the most important business
multiple and simultaneous events.
events to the most awe-inspiring
From the most
important
performance,
we invite
you tobusiness
use your
events
to
the
most
awe-inspiring
imagination and our skills to enhance
performance,
we inviteInyou
to words,
use your
your event’s potential.
other
imagination and our skills to enhance
your event’s potential. In other words,
think large,
large, small
smalland
andeverything
everythinginin
between.We
look
forward
between. We look forwardtotoyour
your
next visit!
next
visit!
Harborside Event Center
Fort Myers,
Harborside
EventFla.
Center
239/321-8120
Fort Myers, Fla.
harborsideevents.com
239/321-8120
[email protected]
[email protected]
CONVENTION FORUM • SPRING 2012
11
Small-Medium Meeting Venues
At Harlow’s,
Your Event Becomes a
Memorable Occasion
W
hen your meeting is at the Delta’s premier resort
destination, enjoyment is always on the agenda. At
Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa, we’ve created an ideal, centrally
located meeting and group events venue and combined it with an
exciting gaming atmosphere with luxury resort amenities. With
more than 7,500 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and convention space,
along with state-of-the-art technology and full catering services,
Harlow’s Event Center can host your largest groups or smallest
gatherings. Whether it’s a corporate meeting or a retreat, trade
show, wedding or conference, our Great Meeting Guarantee
means you’ll get superior attention to every detail to ensure
everything runs smoothly—from start to finish.
Harlow’s Comprehensive Meeting Services include:
• Trade shows (booths, pipe & drape, electrical outlets)
• Conferences (can accommodate up to 600 for meetings with five breakout rooms)
• All A/V requirements
• Wireless internet
• Audio & sound systems
• Complete catering facilities, from black tie events to a working lunch
Make it an event to
experience at Harlow’s
• 7,500 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space
• State-of-the-art technology
• Professional staff
• Three-diamond quality hotel
• Woodhouse Day Spa
• Pool
• Restaurants
• The hottest gaming action in the Delta
• Like Us on Facebook
General Info • 662.335.9797
Hotel Reservations • 866.524.5825
4280 Harlow’s Blvd, Greenville, MS 38701 • harlowscasino.com
Must be 21 to enter. ©2013 Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa. All rights reserved.
Gambling problem? Call 888.777.9696.
12
Best of all, Harlow’s Event Center puts you at the heart
of “The Delta’s Coolest Spot.” Enjoy all the excitement of a
casino atmosphere along with all the amenities of a true resort
hotel. 105 beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites, each
with a Jacuzzi® tub, separate shower, granite vanities and flat
screen television. A sparkling outdoor oasis with pool and deck
area. Fabulous restaurants offering the finest steaks, southern
favorites and other delicious entrées. Exciting concerts in the
Arena. Even the ultimate in relaxation at The Woodhouse Day
Spa at Harlow’s.
Let our meeting planners turn your event into a memorable
occasion. For more information on Harlow’s Event Center,
contact Linda Arnold, sales manager, at 662/335-9797,
ext. 167, or larnold@
Linda Arnold
harlowscasino.com.
Sales Manager
For more information
Harlow’s Event Center
on Harlow’s Casino
Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa
Resort & Spa, visit
Greenville, Mississippi
Linda Arnold
662/335-9797, ext. 167
harlowscasino.com.
harlowscasino.com
[email protected]
Small-Medium Meeting Venues
Please, Make Yourself
at Home in High Point, N.C.
Y
ou’re always our guest when you’re
in High Point. Southern hospitality
and international appeal make High Point
an ideal venue for events of all kinds
and sizes. Our skill for welcoming and
servicing groups has been honed over the
years by hosting a wide variety of sports
and cultural events, in addition to the
prestigious High Point Market. We let
our world-class service shine throughout
every accommodation, restaurant and
event facility.
We can do the same for you. What’s
important to you is important to us!
That’s our approach. You can count on
the staff at the High Point Convention
& Visitors Bureau from beginning to
end, from bidding on hotels for overnight
rooms to hand-delivering welcome bags
to your guests. We have a variety of hotels
to fit any budget, unique meeting venues
to fit any size group, convenient access
to and from our facilities and attractions,
and the mindset that your event is the
only event in town. Located in the
middle of North Carolina, we’re close to
everything you need. Only 20 minutes or
less from Piedmont Triad International
Airport, major interstates and an Amtrak
station—our own historic train depot in
the center of downtown High Point. All
accommodations and meeting facilities are
just minutes from our parks, attractions
and entertainment.
Let us know how we can help make your
next event a spectacular success. Please
contact us for additional information and
to discuss details for your upcoming event.
Marva Wells
Marva Wells
Sales Manager
High Point Convention
& Visitors Bureau
High Point, N.C.
336/884-5255
highpoint.org
[email protected]
We’ve been
expecting you.
A history of hosting guests from more than
100 countries means we know just how to
make you feel welcome.
With experience hosting guests from around the world, High Point
is the perfect place for any group – from anywhere. With inviting
accommodations and an array of great meeting spaces, no other city
will make you feel more welcome.
T O S C H E D U L E YO U R N E X T M E E T I N G, V I S I T H I G H P O I N T. O R G
800.720.5255
HPCVB_conventions.indd 1
7/3/2013 8:49:36 PM
13
In
News
Barnsley Resort, Adairsville,
Ga., announces the addition
of new management team
members, Shelby Taylor,
director of marketing and
public relations, and Aaron
Shelby Taylor
Stiles, director of food and
beverage. Most recently, Taylor was director
of public relations for Four
Seasons Hotel Westlake
Village, California, near Los
Angeles. Stiles will be creating
new signature programs and
creative dining experiences at
the 3,300-acre property that
Aaron Stiles
features The Woodlands Grill
and Rice House restaurants, a Beer Garden
and numerous unique outdoor catering and
event venues.
The Greater Miami
Convention & Visitors
Bureau (GMCVB) has
named Justin Wusinich to
the position of corporate
sales manager. Wusinich will
be handling the West Coast
Justin Wusinich
corporate, association trade
and incentive markets, as well as new small
meetings in the Northeast.
Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf
Resort & Spa announces
the appointment of Richard
Ross as the resort’s new
vice president of sales
and marketing. Ross’s
responsibilities include
Richard Ross
shaping and executing all sales
and marketing strategies for group
and leisure markets; developing new
programs to maximize opportunities and
exceed revenue goals; management of the
public relations and advertising initiatives of
the resort; and overseeing the performance
management, coaching, recruiting and
selection of the sales team.
Charles Hill has been
appointed general manager
of the Embassy Suites
Washington, D.C. Convention Center.
Hill oversees the day-to-day
Charles Hill
operations of the 384-room
all-suite and full-service hotel located
blocks from the Walter E. Washington
Convention Center.
14
Interstate Hotels & Resorts
announces the addition
of Leigh Ann Waters as
corporate regional director
of sales and marketing for
Atlanta and surrounding
areas. Waters is responsible
Leigh Ann Waters
for supporting the senior
vice president of sales and marketing by
overseeing the planning and management
of sales, marketing, catering and revenue
management efforts. Her portfolio of
Georgia-based properties includes The Lodge
and Spa at Callaway Gardens, Marriott
Macon City Center and the new Hyatt
Atlanta Midtown.
Hyatt Regency Dallas
announces the appointment
of Chris Watson as director
of sales and marketing. In this
role, Watson is responsible
for leading a sales team in
driving top line revenues and
Chris Watson
marketing of the recently
renovated downtown Dallas 1,120-room
hotel, including 160,000 sq. ft. of meeting
and event space.
Paul Scott has been
appointed complex general
manager of two Hilton
Worldwide hotels in New
Orleans, La. Scott oversees the
operation of the 1,622-room
Hilton New Orleans Riverside
and the 367-room DoubleTree
by Hilton New Orleans.
Paul Scott
Sandestin Golf and Beach
Resort has appointed two key
executives, Nancy Wilkerson
and Dan Keyser. Wilkerson
has been promoted to director
of group sales,
and Keyser has
Nancy Wilkerson
been named to
executive director of resort
sales, overseeing the resort’s
sales efforts inclusive of group,
transient and social business.
Dan Keyser
Viceroy Miami recently appointed Fred
Khoury as director of sales and marketing.
Khoury oversees sales, reservations, events,
marketing and public relations teams for
the hotel.
The Lodge and Spa
at Callaway Gardens
announces the addition of
Perry Grice as director of
sales. Grice is responsible
for all aspects of group sales,
Perry Grice
managing corporate communications and
accommodations for group guests and
activities.
Sarah Cardenas has been
named group sales manager
at The Naples Beach Hotel
& Golf Club in Southwest
Florida. In her new position,
she is responsible for sales
Sarah Cardenas
efforts for the 125-acre
beachfront resort to the association and
corporate markets, with a focus on the
Northeast U.S. region.
Omni Hotels & Resorts
of Terry Green as general
manager for the Omni
Severin Hotel, located in
the heart of downtown
Terry Green
Indianapolis. In this role,
Green is charged with
managing sales, marketing, food and
beverage and operational efforts for the
city’s longest running and beautifully
restored luxury hotel.
Hilton Americas-Houston
is proud to announce that
Janice O’Neill-Cox, director
of sales and marketing,
has been recognized by
Hilton Worldwide’s Circle
Janice O’Neill-Cox
of Excellence (COE)
program as Director of
Sales and Marketing of the Year for the
Hilton Hotels brand. The COE program
rewards sales, catering and events services
professionals in the top 10 percent of each
of Hilton Worldwide’s brands.
Continued on page 16
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!
14
THE MEETING
PROFESSIONALS’
DIRECTORY
of Sites
and Destinations
Alabama
Florida
Georgia
Louisiana
Mississippi
North Carolina
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
West Virginia
It’s all right here.
CONVENTION
FORUM • SUMMER 2013
15
15
Alabama
Volume 8,
Issue
3
Ser ving
Mee ting
Pro fess
iona ls Thr
oug hou
t The Sou
thea st
Fall 2012
Coming Fall 2013
GREEN MEETINGS
plus
BRYANT CONFERENCE CENTER
240 Paul Bryant Drive • Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
Contact: Jennifer Anderson
Assistant Director
Phone: 205/348-3002 • Fax: 205/348-8505
[email protected]
http://bcc.ua.edu
Number of Meeting Rooms: 14
Total Sq. Ft.: 30,000
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-1,000;
Banquet-500; Classroom-500; Exhibit/Meeting-120
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business Center,
High-Speed Internet Access,Wireless Internet
Access
The Bryant Conference Center is West
Alabama’s premier meeting facility.
Located inTuscaloosa on the eastern
side of the University of Alabama’s
campus, the BCC is your flexible
Jennifer
meeting alternative.The facility is part
Anderson
of a complex of buildings that includes
Alumni Hall, the Bryant Museum, the Moody
Music Building and the Hotel Capstone. Our
helpful and professional staff is eager to assist with
your event. Call us today!
In
Se r vin
e1
e 8, Issu
Volum
g Me eti
fes
ng Pro
sio
rou
na ls Th
gh ou t
2
201
Spring
uth
Th e So
eas t
Coastal M
ee
Green Mee tings
tings
Myriad Marketing, Melbourne
Convention Bureau’s (MCB) new
representation agency in North America,
has appointed Jaclyn Weinstein to the
new position of MCB director of business
development, North America. MCB’s new
Strategic Business Plan aims to position
Melbourne, Australia, as one of the world’s
premier business events destinations.
ASK ABOUT OUR
E-NEWSLETTER!
Double your exposure
online and in print.
riendly
Family-F
tions
Destina
orate
for Corp
8 Tips ting Planners
Mee
oney
M
&
Time
to Save
Like us on Facebook
facebook.com/conventionforum
Continued from page 14
News
Leslie A. Pchola has been
named area vice president,
southeast, covering Hilton
Worldwide hotels and
resorts in Georgia, Alabama,
Louisiana, Western Florida
Leslie A. Pchola
and South Carolina. Pchola
most recently held the position of general
manager of Austin’s largest premier
convention hotel, Hilton Austin.
16
COASTAL MEETINGS
featurin
Hyatt Regg
Beach Res ency Clearwater
ort & Spa
L to R: Fred Grubbe, MBA, CAE, chief executive officer,
Appraisal Institute, and Association Forum’s chair-elect;
Fred Shea, vice president of strategic partnerships,
Visit Orlando; Danielle Bauer, CAE, director of membership,
American Student Dental Association, and Association
Forum’s awards & recognition committee chair
Visit Orlando’s vice president of strategic
partnerships, Fred Shea, was recently
presented the John C. Thiel Distinguished
Service Award by Association Forum at
the Honors Gala in Chicago. The award,
named in memory of the late John C. Thiel,
CAE, Association Forum’s chairman-elect
in 1990-1991, recognizes an individual for
outstanding service to Association Forum.
The award also reflects Shea’s demonstrated
leadership within the association industry.
The Walt Disney World
Swan and Dolphin Hotel
of Fred Sawyers as general
manager. Sawyers oversees
2,265 rooms, 329,000 sq. ft. Fred Sawyers
of meeting space and 1,800
cast members in his new role at the Epcot
Resort Area hotel.
Hyatt Regency Century
Plaza in Los Angeles has
named Brian Morris
director of sales and
marketing. Morris is
responsible for the hotel’s
Brian Morris
overall sales operation and
marketing communications. He manages
a staff of 13 and serves as a member of the
hotel’s Executive Managing Committee.
Alabama
There’s Only One Tuscaloosa
T
he Tuscaloosa Tourism & Sports
Commission can accommodate all
of your meeting and convention planner
needs. Our services include requesting
proposals for group rates from our local
hoteliers, customized tours, dining guides,
visitor guides, spouse and children’s
activities/tours and more.
Our job is to make you shine! If you
don’t look good, we don’t look good. That
is plain English that is easily understood
but often overlooked. The success of your
event is deeply important to us. We are
in this together. If you need a PLACE …
they’re out there. If you need a PARTNER
… you will find one here. We like to think
that if you like what we do ... you will
come back!
Tuscaloosa is centrally located in the
Southeast and easily accessible via I-59/20,
and offers meeting packages at a cost
that will allow for maximization of your
meeting budget, unlike many larger cities.
Do more with the
same dollars and …
well … sit back and
smile as you listen
to your attendees
singing your praises!
Spirit. Energy.
Passion. Tuscaloosa
is a vibrant city
on the move. Our
downtown and
riverfront have experienced
a tremendous revitalization with arts,
restaurants, unique shops and galleries and
local brews! We have plenty for you to
enjoy during your visit!
There is only one city named Tuscaloosa
in the entire world. Make no mistake,
there is a reason for this! From Indian
chiefs to national football champions,
people find wildly successful things happen
in Tuscaloosa like no place they have
ever been! Hmmmm … maybe we will
Bryant Conference Center
start offering a “National Championship
Meeting Planner Award” … somebody has
to be #1—why not YOU?
Susan West
CEO
Tuscaloosa Tourism and Sports Commission
Tuscaloosa, Ala.
800/538-8696
visittuscaloosa.com
[email protected]
17
Florida
BAY POINT WYNDHAM RESORT
4114 Jan Cooley Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Contact: Kim Robinson, Director of Sales
Phone: 800/874-7105 • Fax: 850/236-6150
[email protected]
baypointwyndham.com
Guestrooms: 319; Suites: 60
Largest Meeting Capacity: Theater-1,562;
Banquet-1,080; Classroom-840;
Exhibit/Meeting-100
Fitness Facility, Golf Course (36 holes),
High-Speed Internet Access, Indoor Pool,
Lounges (4), Outdoor Pool (4), Restaurants (4),
Spa Treatments, Tennis Courts (5), Wireless
Internet Access
We have the space, experience and freedom to
customize your event like no other property can.
40,000 square feet of possibilities, breakout options
that break the mold. Amenities like state-of-theart A/V and kids’ camp. From our resort-style
boardrooms to breathtaking outdoor venues, call
today to discover what we can do uniquely for you.
EXPERIENCE KISSIMMEE
215 Celebration Place, Ste. 200
Kissimmee, FL 34747
Contact: Janet Jones
Senior Sales Representative
Phone: 407/742-8253 • Fax: 407/742-8262
[email protected]
meetinkissimmee.com
Largest Room Capacity: 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” program.
To learn more see 1500.meetinkissimmee.com.
HARBORSIDE EVENT CENTER
P.O. Box 9204
Fort Myers, FL 33902
Contact: Sue Robbins
Sales Event Coordinator
Phone: 239/321-8120 • Fax: 239/344-5962
[email protected]
Guestrooms: 600 (nearby)
Banquet-600; Classroom-1,700;
Exhibit/Meeting-150 to 190
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, High-Speed
Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
MEET ME BY THE RIVER! The perfect meeting
requires the perfect location! We have what your
group deserves ... riverfront hotel partners less than
a mile away; minutes to miles of pristine beaches
and championship golf; numerous boutiques,
restaurants and nightlife within walking distance;
and a picturesque historic downtown riverfront
location.
HOT DEALS
INDIAN RIVER COUNTY CHAMBER
OF COMMERCE, TOURISM DIVISION
Vero Beach • Sebastian • Fellsmere
1216 21st Street
Vero Beach, FL 32960
Contact: Allison McNeal
Tourism Director
Phone: 772/567-3491, ext. 118
Fax: 772/778-3181
[email protected]
indianriverchamber.com
Some of the most memorable and
successful events—from conferences,
reunions and executive retreats to
weddings—take place in Indian River
Allison McNeal County, Fla. A tropical oasis with smalltown ambience and a cosmopolitan flair. Planning
events here is easy, with competent, professional
assistance every step of the way. Your Treasured Event
is waiting to happen here.
18
Have Hot Dates/Deals
Sent Right to Your
In-Box!
Send us your email
address to receive
the latest hot dates/deals
from venues around
the Southeast as well as our
digital version of
Convention ForumTM
conventionforum.com
ONE OCEAN RESORT & SPA
One Ocean Boulevard
Atlantic Beach, FL 32233
Contact: Ken Nason
Vice President of Sales
Phone: 904/853-2330 • Fax: 904/249-1119
[email protected]
oneoceanresort.com
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-500 (3,800 sq. ft.)
On-Site Facilities: Azurea Restaurant, Beachfront,
Oceanfront Spa, Sea Turtle Kids Club
Even conferences and meetings at One Ocean
Resort & Spa feel like vacations, with more than
193 guestrooms and suites and more than 10,500
sq. ft. of flexible indoor and outdoor conference
facilities. Meeting rooms offer breathtaking views
of the Atlantic. Meetings at One Ocean Resort also
feature full-service catering, extensive audio-visual
capabilities and event planning support.
Florida
IndustryDevelopments
ARABIAN NIGHTS
LAUNCHES NEW SHOW
Arabian Nights, a favorite
of Orlando visitors for
25 years, has launched
a new show called The
Royal Celebration. The
story provides a new twist
on an ancient tale that
centers on the attraction’s
legendary, majestic
Arabian horses. The Royal
Celebration invites the audience to participate in the arranged marriage of
the leaders of two tribes, the Seglawi and the Raula. These rivals unite when
Princess Amirah and Prince Raswan come together through the passion they
share for Arabian horses. Their love for horses influences their love for one
another, culminating in a majestic Royal Wedding Celebration that features
an amazing array of glorious horsemanship from around the world.
arabian-nights.com
KUDOS FOR AMELIA ISLAND
Several travel-related publications and websites recently included Amelia
Island, Fla., and its destination partners in a variety of awards and
recognitions. In the June issue of Parents magazine, Amelia Island was
named the sixth best beach town for day trips and vacations nationwide.
Amelia Island also placed among the Top 10 Islands in the United States in
TripAdvisor’s inaugural Travelers’ Choice Awards. The Omni Amelia Island
Plantation was named one of America’s Top 50 Courses for Women by
Golf Digest and a Top Tennis Camp by Tennis Resorts Online. Marché
Burette at Omni Amelia Island Plantation was named Amelia Island’s
Favorite Take Out Restaurant for 2013 by Jacksonville magazine. More than
50 Amelia Island accommodators, restaurants and activities recently received
the 2013 TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence. The recognition is given
to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on
TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide.
ameliaisland.com
NAPLES’ INN ON FIFTH PLANS NEW RESTAURANT
Following the completion of an $18 million
expansion project and a $1.7 million renovation,
the Inn on Fifth in downtown Naples, Fla.,
has announced plans for a new restaurant to be
constructed on the site of the McCabe’s Irish Pub & Grill located at its iconic
Fifth Avenue South location. With 240 seats and a private dining room for
up to 60 guests, the new 7,000 sq. ft. restaurant is expected be the largest on
Fifth Avenue South. The $1.5 million restaurant will feature a high-energy,
contemporary ambiance and is expected to open before Christmas 2013.
innonfifth.com
Continued on page 31
THE HILTON FORT LAUDERDALE MARINA
1881 SE 17th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Contact: Group Sales
Phone: 954/527-6725 • Fax: 954/527-6701
fortlauderdalemarinahotel.com
Banquet-600; Classroom-500;
Exhibit/Meeting: 17/1,000
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, 24-Hour
Business Center, Complimentary Shuttle to Fort
Lauderdale Beach, Fitness Facility, Valet Parking,
High-Speed Wireless Internet Access, Outdoor
Heated Pool, Antea - Morning, Noon and Night
for a quick bite or beverage, The G - Set poolside
in a casual atmosphere, On-Site Water Taxi Stop,
Overnight Dry Cleaning
Minutes away from the airport and across the street
from the Broward Convention Center, this resortstyle, waterfront destination hotel offers 21,000 sq.
ft. of function space, 589 rooms and accommodates
groups up to 450 people. Enjoy continental
breakfast in our brand new Waterway Room.
THE WESTIN CAPE CORAL RESORT
AT MARINA VILLAGE
5951 Silver King Boulevard
Cape Coral, FL 33914
Contact: Jeanne Gerstle
Sales Administrative Assistant
Phone: 239/541-5040 • Fax: 239/541-5010
[email protected]
westincapecoral.com
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-200;
Exhibit/Meeting-200
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Boutiques/
Shops, Business Center, Fitness Facility, HighSpeed Internet Access, Lounge, Marina With
Water Activity, Outdoor Pools (3), Restaurants (2),
Spa Treatments, Tennis Courts (2), Water-Taxi to
Nearby Beach, Wireless Internet Access
With more than 25,000 sq. ft. of versatile event
space, we can accommodate up to 500 guests. From
scenic waterfront terraces and lush, landscaped lawns
to state-of-the-art indoor meeting space, including a
private waterfront dining room, we offer a vast array
of venues designed to inspire and impress.
19
Georgia
AMICALOLA FALLS LODGE/UNICOI LODGE
ALBANY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
112 North Front Street
Albany, GA 31701
Contact: Rashelle Beasley, CVB Manager
Phone: 229/317-4760 • Fax: 229/317-4765
[email protected]
visitalbanyga.com
Guestrooms: 1,890
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.
THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
TIFTON CAMPUS CONFERENCE CENTER
Mail: 2360 Rainwater Road
Location: 15 RDC Road, Tifton, GA 31793
Contact: Conference Office
Phone: 229/386-3416 • Fax: 229/386-3822
[email protected]
ugatiftonconference.org
Exhibit/Meeting-35,000
High-Speed Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
This multi-use, modern facility features experienced
personnel and flexible meeting space. As a stateof-the-art facility, the conference center provides
a spectrum of flexibility that includes 33,000 sq.
ft. of exhibit space, audio-visual equipment, two
auditoriums, breakout rooms, ballrooms and a
fully equipped kitchen. Located in the geographic
center of South Georgia, the UGA Tifton Campus
Conference Center hosts a variety of events on the
local, state and regional levels. See us for your event.
20
418 Amicalola Falls Lodge Road/1788 Highway 356
Dawsonville, GA 30534/Helen, GA 30545
Contact: Lori Vansickle, Lodge Manager/
Harvey Dunbar, Lodge Manager
Phone: 706/344-1542; 706/878-2201
Fax: 706/878-2676; 706/878-1897
[email protected]
[email protected]
georgiastateparks.org
Number of Meeting Rooms: 5/6
Total Sq. Ft.: 3,000/12,000
Guestrooms: 70/130
Suites: 4/0
Largest Room Capacity: Theater-190/450;
Banquet-140/300; Classroom-100/180;
Exhibit/Meeting-240/450
On-Site Facilities: Restaurant
Both the Lodge at Unicoi and the Lodge at
Amicalola Falls offer magnificent settings that are
simply unforgettable. Flexible meeting spaces, comfortable accommodations and sumptuous cuisine
set the stage, but it’s our pristine wilderness, breathtaking waterfalls and beautiful lakes that everyone
can’t stop talking about. For more information and
reservations at Unicoi, call 800/573-9659 and at
Amicalola Falls, call 800/573-9656, or visit online at
georgiastateparks.org.
GSAE Hosting Opportunities
The host property of each luncheon receives
a reserved table during registration, the
opportunity to place material at each place
setting, podium time, significant exposure
and an attendee mailing list following
the luncheon. This is a great opportunity
to showcase your property! All GSAE
luncheons are on Wednesdays.
Congratulations to GSAE’s Newest
Certified Association Executive
Earning the CAE credential is the hallmark
of a committed association professional.
It helps drive professional self-confidence,
opens doors, creates connections and
offers widespread value and recognition
for candidates. Congratulations to GSAE’s
newest CAE:
Sarah Jackson, CAE
Senior Account Manager
Nardone Consulting
Group Inc.
Marietta, Ga.
BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT & SPA
6321 U.S. Highway 76
Young Harris, GA 30582
Contact: Charles Burton, General Manager
Phone: 706/379-4606 • Fax: 706/379-9999
[email protected]
brasstownvalley.com
Guestrooms: 134
Exhibit/Meeting-200
Equestrian Facility, Fitness Center, Full-Service
Luxurious Spa, Golf Course (18 holes), HighSpeed Internet Access, Indoor Pool, Lounges (2),
Outdoor Pool, Restaurants (2), Scenic Outdoor
Function/Event Space, Tennis Courts (4),
Wireless Internet Access
Ask about our hot date special discounts!
The conference center is the largest in North
Georgia, with 14,298 sq. ft. of space. Groups from
6 to 330 can be accommodated comfortably with
meeting and boardrooms in every size. Full-service
conference coordinators are on staff to assist with
every detail, from team-building activities and
recreational outings to customized dining options.
GSAE Upcoming Events
September 18, 2013
Quarterly Luncheon
The Abit Massey Lecture Series
Sponsor: Augusta CVB
November 13, 2013
Trade Show & Quarterly Luncheon
Jeff DeCagna, FRSA, FASAE, Chief
Strategist and Founder, Principled
Innovation LLC
Lunch Sponsor: Visit Savannah
Trade Show Food & Beverage Sponsors:
ExpoPlus; Visit Vail Valley
December 6, 2013
Certified Association Executive (CAE)
Exam at SAIS
December 11, 2013
Holiday Luncheon, Silent Auction &
Awards Presentation
Sponsors: Grand Hotel Marriott Resort,
Golf Club & Spa; Renaissance Hotels
Mobile; The Georgia Center’s UGA Hotel
and Conference Center; VisitNorfolk
February 19, 2014
Quarterly Luncheon
Tom Cunningham, Vice President, Senior
Economist and Regional Executive, Federal
Reserve Bank of Atlanta
Learn more at gsae.org.
Louisiana
ASTOR CROWNE PLAZA NEW ORLEANS
739 Canal Street at Bourbon Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
Contact: Don Zimmer
Phone: 504/962-0500 • Fax: 504/962-0503
[email protected]
astorneworleans.com
Exhibit/Meeting-50 8x10 booths
Concierge, Fitness Facility, High-Speed Internet
Access, Lounges (2), Outdoor Pool, Restaurant,
SPECIAL EVENTS at
AUDUBON NATURE INSTITUTE
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.
LAFAYETTE CONVENTION & VISITORS
COMMISSION
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.
Located at the Gateway to the French
Quarter, the Astor places you within
walking distance to all that is New Orleans.
This AAA 4-Diamond hotel is rated as one
Don Zimmer
of the Top Performers within Crowne Plazas
across the Americas for Meeting Excellence. The Astor
Crowne Plaza, where “Your Success Matters.”
Mississippi
Meeting
Planners
MISSISSIPPI DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY/
TOURISM DIVISION
501 North West Street, Ste. 501
P.O. Box 849
Jackson, MS 39205-0849
Contact: Whitney Orr
Program Manager, Meetings and Conventions
Phone: 601/359-3298
Fax: 601/359-5757
[email protected]
visitmississippi.org
The Mississippi Development
Authority/Tourism Division can
assist meeting planners with a variety
of meeting services and expert
advice. Check out our Incentive
Whitney Orr
Program and RFP services at
visitmississippi.org or call 1-888-MEET-4-MS
for a free meeting guide.
RIVERWALK MULTI-PURPOSE ROOM
Send us pictures
of your special events!
1046 Warrenton Road
Vicksburg, MS 39180
Contact: Elayne Gamble, Group Sales Manager
Phone: 601/802-3138
Fax: 601/802-3212
[email protected]
riverwalkvicksburg.com
Exhibit/Meeting: 100
Internet Access, Restaurants (2), Wireless Internet
Access
Riverwalk Multi-Purpose Room offers a fantastic
view of the Mississippi River, state-of-the-art audio
equipment, full-service catering and event planning
assistance.
[email protected]
21
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f course your employees matter. If they didn’t, you
wouldn’t hire them, trust them to do important
work or keep paying them week after week. And if you
think about it at all (which you probably don’t), you
assume they realize that. It’s only logical. But you may
inadvertently do and say things that make them feel
otherwise—and it has little to do with logic.
In my new book, SmartTribes: How Teams Become
Brilliant Together, I explain that mattering is one of the
three most primal human needs, along with safety and
belonging. When employees are made to feel they don’t
matter, it happens on an emotional level, not an
22
intellectual one. And emotions, not intellect, drive 90
percent of human behavior.
The really bad news for leaders is that when employees
feel they don’t matter, they simply cannot function at
their highest level of performance.
When leaders say or do something that makes
employees feel insignificant (and/or frightened or isolated;
the three tend to work together), they revert to the fight/
flight/freeze part of the brain—falling into what I call the
“Critter State.” Once in this state, all collaboration skills
fall by the wayside, and every decision boils down to a
single question: What will keep me safe right now?
I train and coach leaders at midsized and Fortune 1000 comspecial lunch and celebrate the team companywide.
panies in neuroscience techniques that get people out of their
Team victory celebrations foster a sense of belonging and
Critter State and into their Smart State, where they have full
camaraderie—which go hand in hand with mattering.
access to their creativity, problem-solving ability, collaboration
5. You inadvertently show favoritism. In many companies,
and emotional engagement. Under my guidance, clients often
there are certain team members who are perceived as “above
see their revenues and profits increase by up to 21 percent
the law” or in the “in crowd.” These people tend not to be held
annually. Furthermore, 33 to 42 percent of the entire employee
accountable for their lack of performance, and they often get the
base takes on increased levels of responsibility—without asking
lion’s share of raises, promotions or perks, even if they don’t defor more pay.
serve them. And yes, other employees notice.
So, what might you be doing that makes employees feel they
People think lovability isn’t an issue in business, but I’m here
don’t matter? Here, I reveal six of the top offenders:
to tell you it is. Feeling that others are more “loved” triggers
1. You don’t respond to their emails. Sure, you’re busy, and
safety, belonging and mattering issues in those on the outside.
sure, your employees know that—but the Critter State doesn’t
Absolute equality may not be possible in an imperfect world, but
spring from the rational part of the brain. Instead of thinking,
it’s critical to aim for it.
Oh, the boss will get back to me when she has a moment, they
6. You burn them out. Do your employees slog away like
think, She doesn’t like my idea. She doesn’t like me. I feel reslaves, working looong hours and completing one high-stress task
jected. I don’t matter.
after another, day after day after day? Not only
When an employee emails the boss,
will they feel you don’t care about their well-beespecially when that email asks for your aping, they’ll burn out. Yes, from time to time we
proval or contains sensitive content, she’s putTo let them know
all have to exert extra effort … but no one can
ting herself out there. Always respond—even
sustain such a pace forever.
they matter, make
if it’s just to say, “I need a little time to think
This dynamic starts when leaders “self-sacriabout that, but I’ll get back to you in a day or
a positive personal
fice.” Even if you don’t tell employees they have
two.”
to work until 8 p.m. every night, they see you
connection with
2. You don’t give them feedback—posido it and think they’re expected to do so as well.
tive or negative. When people matter to us,
employees as often This isn’t good for you or for them.
we want them to know they’ve done a good
Sustainability is about creating win-win agreejob. If they haven’t done a good job, we want
as possible.
ments with ourselves and others. We all need a
them to know that, too, so they can improve.
good blend of people, activities and things that
To an employee’s Critter State, silence means
excite and energize us to balance out those (inwe don’t care enough to let him know
evitable) things that drain us. If your employees
either way.
matter to you, you’ll help them strike that balance.
I hope you’re giving feedback in performance evaluations,
To many leaders, paying so much attention to what goes on
but give it informally as well. A simple “Good job writing that
inside employees’ heads is a foreign notion. When my clients see
proposal” means a lot. And while it’s less fun to hear “You need
the astonishing results, they are more than willing to change the
to work on the close to your sales pitch,” when your employee
way they lead.
starts getting better results, he’ll know you cared enough to
When we’re able to break the mental patterns that hold us—
speak up.
and those around us—back, we can reach heights of performance
It seems un-PC to make this comparison, but consider how
we never thought possible. And the best part is, it’s more rewardwell children respond to being consistently held accountable.
ing for everyone. It can take work from being drudgery to being
Rules and boundaries make people feel loved. It’s true for
fun and exciting and meaningful.
employees and leaders, too. In the Critter State, we’re all
2-year-olds.
3. You acknowledge people ONLY when they make
mistakes. This makes them feel like a faulty cog that must be
About the Author
repaired to keep the company machine running smoothly. To
Bill Gates calls her “super high bandwidth.” Bill
Clinton has thanked her for “fostering American
let them know they matter, make a positive personal connection
entrepreneurship.” Newsweek says, “By reputation,
with employees as often as possible. Be specific about what you
Christine is the person you want to partner with.”
like and let them know their unique contributions make a real
Christine Comaford is a global thought leader who helps
difference to the company.
mid-sized and Fortune 1000 companies navigate growth
and change, an expert in human behavior and applied neuroscience and
Better yet, make a point of praising employees publicly. Social
the bestselling author of Rules for Renegades. Her latest book, New York
rewards are extremely powerful—far more powerful than cash
Times best-seller SmartTribes: How Teams Become Brilliant Together, was
rewards, in fact.
released in June 2013. To learn more, visit christinecomaford.com.
4. You don’t celebrate victories. No, just getting paid isn’t
About the Book
reward enough for doing a great job. (Again, a paycheck can feel
SmartTribes: How Teams Become Brilliant Together (Portfolio/Penguin,
like oil for the cog—necessary, but not meaningful.) When your
June 2013, ISBN: 978-1-5918464-8-2, $26.95, smarttribesbook.com) is
available at bookstores nationwide and from all major online booksellers.
team has an especially significant win, make a point to order in a
23
North Carolina
HIGH POINT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
300 South Main Street
High Point, NC 27260
Contact: Marva Wells
Sales Manager
Phone: 336/884-5255, ext. 31
Fax: 336/884-5256
[email protected]
highpoint.org
Number of Meeting Rooms: 34 (citywide)
Total Sq. Ft.: 112,084+ (citywide)
Guestrooms: 1,077 (citywide)
With experience hosting guests from
around the world, High Point is
the perfect place for any group—
from anywhere. With inviting
Marva Wells accommodations and an array of great
meeting spaces, no other city will make
you feel more welcome.
NEW BERN RIVERFRONT CONVENTION CENTER
203 South Front Street
New Bern, NC 28560
Contact: Mary Harris, Director
Phone: 252/637-1551 • Fax: 252/637-0250
[email protected]
newbernconventions.com
Guestrooms: 400+ within walking distance
Exhibit/Meeting-130 exhibits
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.
SHERATON RALEIGH HOTEL
421 South Salisbury Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
Contact: Kevin Johnson
Phone: 919/834-9900 • Fax: 919/833-6342
[email protected]
sheratonraleigh.com
Exhibit/Meeting-35
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
Johnson
Capitol, museums, restaurants and
nightlife. Fresh off our $5 million
renovation; come and experience our new urban
loft atmosphere.
AENC to Host Trade Show
in December
TWIN CITY QUARTER
425 North Cherry Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Contact: Ron Stephens
Phone: 336/725-3500
Fax: 336/728-4020
[email protected]
twincityquarter.com
Twin City Quarter includes the
upscale Winston-Salem Marriott,
the luxurious Embassy Suites and the
Benton Convention Center. Connected
via climate-controlled walkways,
Ron Stephens
the complex includes WS Prime, the
Marriott’s signature restaurant; The Grille, an
American Bistro; and Silkroad Day Spa and Salon.
24
WILMINGTON, NC CONVENTION CENTER
515 Nutt Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
Contact: John Sneed
Director of Convention Sales
Wilmington and Beaches Convention
and Visitors Bureau
Phone: 800/650-9064, ext. 125
Fax: 910/341-4029
[email protected]
nccoastalmeetingsforum.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 14, plus an
outside event lawn
Largest convention center on North
Carolina coast. Meeting capabilities
or groups of 20 to 2,000 with
107,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and
8,000 guestrooms in the area.
John Sneed
Connected by nearly two miles of
riverwalk and within easy walking distance to
historic downtown Wilmington: 200 shops,
40 restaurants and 10 attractions.
The AENC is excited to announce the AENC
Trade Show, Dec. 12, 2013, at the Raleigh
Convention Center. The largest of its kind in
the Southeast, the AENC Trade Show features
nearly 200 exhibitors and more than 450
attendees. The show begins with a continental
breakfast, followed by Critical Conversations for
2014. This will be a moderated forum featuring
key industry leaders discussing issues/trends in
the association/meeting profession. Panelists
include: Susan Robertson, CAE, executive vice
president of ASAE and president of the ASAE
Foundation; Debra Sexton, president & CEO,
Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA); Mike Mason, CEO/founder,
Zentila; and Michael Walden, economist, N.C.
State. Following the session will be a networking lunch. The trade show follows. The event is
FREE for all association/meeting professionals.
For more information, visit aencnet.org/tradeshow.htm.
For a complete calendar of AENC events, visit
aencnet.org/calendar.htm.
South Carolina
BAY WATCH RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER
2701 South Ocean Boulevard
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Contact: Debbie Strickland
Director of Sales
Phone: 866/270-2263 • Fax: 843/445-5947
[email protected]
oceanaresorts.com
Exhibit/Meeting-400
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Business
Center, Fitness Facility, Indoor Pools (8),
Outdoor Pools (10), Restaurants (2),
Bay Watch Resort & Conference Center has more
than 6,500 sq. ft. of meeting space for hosting a
group event in Myrtle Beach with ocean views.
Meet, greet, dine and celebrate at our conveniently
located resort, boasting amenities designed to make
your stay as relaxing as possible.
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
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.
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON COLUMBIA
SOUTH CAROLINA
2100 Bush River Road
Columbia, SC 29210
Contact: Randi Sullivan, Senior Sales Manager
Phone: 803/744-0140 • Fax: 803/731-4892
[email protected]
columbiasouthcarolina.doubletree.com
Total Sq. Ft.: 20,000+
On-Site Facilities: Hilton Honors Lounge With
Concierge Services, Oversized Fitness Center,
Columbo’s Restaurant and Lounge, Complimentary
Wi-Fi in Guestrooms and Public Areas,
Outdoor Pool
Experience the DoubleTree by Hilton
“where the little things mean
everything.” With more than 20,000
sq. ft. of flexible meeting space and
238 deluxe rooms, including 35 suites.
Randi Sullivan
Free parking and
complimentary airport shuttle. Central location
at I-20 and Bush River Road, close to I-26,
minutes from Vista, Downtown, Riverbanks Zoo
and University of South Carolina. Famous warm
chocolate chip walnut cookies will be waiting…
SCSAE Installs
2013-2014 Board
The South Carolina Society
of Association Executives
(SCSAE) installed its 20132014 officers and board of
directors at the society’s
annual conference held June
2-4, 2013, at the Hilton
Head Marriott.
President
Revira “Reva” Brennan,
CAE, IOM
Chief Operating Officer
S.C. Association of CPAs
President-Elect
David Latimer, CAE
Executive Director
S.C. Troopers Association
Treasurer
Chris Smith
Executive Director
S.C. Association of Special
Purpose Districts
Immediate Past
President
Frank Sheppard, CAE
President
Independent Insurance
Agents and Brokers of S.C.
HILTON HEAD ISLAND VISITOR
& CONVENTION BUREAU
P.O. Box 5647
Hilton Head, SC 29938
Contact: Jack Reed, Director of Sales
Phone: 843/341-8361 • Fax: 843/785-7110
[email protected]
hiltonheadisland.org
Hilton Head is a 12-mile-long
subtropical barrier island. The island’s
heritage includes Civil War battles,
rich Gullah culture and the distinction
of being the first ecologically planned
community in the country. The island
Jack Reed
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.
Directors
Tish Anderson
Associate V.P. Programs
& Events
S.C. Chamber of Commerce
Hannah Pittman
Director of Professional
Development
S.C. Association of School
Administrators
Janet Jordan, CAE
Owner
Meetings Management
& More
Russ Dubisky
Executive Director
S.C. Insurance News Service
Ursula Grant
Convention Sales Manager
Myrtle Beach Area CVB
SCSAE Upcoming
Events
September 11, 2013
12 noon
Lunch & Learn
SCSAE Office
September 26, 2013
11:30 a.m.
Networking Luncheon
Columbia Marriott
October 9, 2013
12 noon
Lunch & Learn
SCSAE Office
October 23, 2013
Golf Tournament
Golden Hills Golf Club
October 24, 2013
Networking Luncheon
Location TBD
November 13, 2013
12 noon
Lunch & Learn
SCSAE Office
December 10, 2013
Holiday Party & Silent
Auction
Location TBD
December 11, 2013
12 noon
Lunch & Learn
SCSAE Office
Learn more at scsae.org.
25
Tennessee and Texas
SEVIERVILLE CONVENTION CENTER
202 Gists Creek Road
Sevierville, TN 37876
Contact: Martha Norris, Sales Manager
Phone: 865/868-1554
Fax: 865/868-1509
[email protected]
seviervilleconventioncenter.com
Banquet-2,000; Classroom-6,900;
On-Site Facilities: A/V Services, Restaurant,
Sevierville, Tenn., the destination for your next
event or trade show. Conveniently located at the
base of the Great Smoky Mountains, you will find
the state-of-the-art Sevierville Convention Center.
Featuring a 240,000 sq. ft. facility with 10 loading
bays with drive-in access to the exhibit hall.
BEAUMONT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
505 Willow Street
Beaumont, TX 77701
Contact: Freddie Willard, Director of Sales
Phone: 800/392-4401 • Fax: 409/880-3750
[email protected]
beaumontcvb.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 53 (citywide)
Total Sq. Ft.: 230,000 (citywide)
Guestrooms: 3,700 (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)
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, 3,700 sleeping
Freddie Willard rooms and two full-service convention
hotels—it’s surprising that it’s the little 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. Ask us about
our Fit & Fun Campaign!
VISIT LUBBOCK
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
Internet Access, Wireless Internet Access
Lubbock is carving out a dominant
role in the West Texas landscape,
offering more than 5,200 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.
TNSAE Spring Bowling Outing
Photo by David Wright Photograpy
TNSAE Upcoming Events
Kasey Anderson, executive director of the Nashville Academy of Medicine, congratulates Hayes Springer,
son of Jarron Springer, executive director of the Tennessee Grocers & Convenience Store Association, after
Hayes leads his team to the Low Team Score title.
Learn more at tnsae.org.
26
Gatlinburg: Relax, Refresh and Reinvigorate
Your Mind, Body and Spirit!
N
estled among the Great Smoky
Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee,
is an ideal meetings destination, boasting
the state-of-the-art Gatlinburg Convention Center and a wide variety of lodging,
dining and attractions. Whether you are
looking for a full-service hotel, a cozy cabin
nestled in the woods, luxurious condominiums in the downtown area or a quaint
inn to accommodate your attendees, Gatlinburg offers it all, with nearly 14,000
sleeping rooms citywide.
Convention Center
The Gatlinburg Convention Center offers
approximately 148,000 sq. ft. of flexible
meeting, exhibition and banquet space,
as well as professional conference services
and an on-site catering staff to meet all of
your needs. Opened in 2006, the adjacent
W.L. Mills Conference Center houses
the spectacular Mills Auditorium and the
Tennessee Ballroom. Inside the convention
center, the large Great Hall is suitable
for concerts as well as trade shows, dance
competitions and other large events. The
many meeting rooms cater to the needs
of associations and corporate retreats
requiring space for breakout sessions in
addition to the larger space required for
general sessions and banquets.
Attractions
When the workday is done, enjoy free
time exploring Gatlinburg’s attractions
and natural areas, including Great Smoky
Mountains National Park, the most
popular in the nation.
Gatlinburg offers groups a one-stop
destination to enjoy four-season fun with
great meeting space and reasonably priced
accommodations of every sort, dozens of
dining options and many unique attractions. Attendees will experience a safe,
walkable community where they can stay
and play in the mountains. To begin
planning your next event in Gatlinburg,
visit meetings.gatlinburg.com or call
800/343-1475. Your attendees will love
that you have chosen Gatlinburg—a place
where you can relax, refresh and reinvigorate your mind, body and spirit!
Karen Robertson
Director of Sales
Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau
Gatlinburg, Tenn.
800/343-1475
meetings.gatlinburg.com
[email protected]
Gatlinburg Convention Center
WOULD YOU SKIP A MEETING
IN THE
MOUNTAINS?
Sure, we have some impressive numbers: over 148,000 square feet of flexible meeting and exhibition space
and a variety of lodging options for your attendees to choose from – within easy walking distance from the
excitement. Gatlinburg has the ability to host just about every kind of event, but it’s when you take a step
outside that you’ll see why we’re nationally recognized as a unique destination and know your event is a success.
You’ve never been closer.
1-800-343-1475 — meetings.gatlinburg.com
facebook.com/gatlinburgconventioncenter
27
Virginia and West Virginia
Check out
our new website
conventionforum.com
and click on the “find a venue” section.
GREATER RICHMOND CONVENTION CENTER
403 North Third Street
Richmond, VA 23219
Contact: Lori Coyne
Phone: 804/783-7335 • Fax: 804/225-0508
[email protected]
richmondcenter.com
Number of Meeting Rooms: 36, plus exhibit hall
Banquet-2,100; Exhibit-892 (10x10 booths)
Center, High-Speed Internet Access, Wireless
Internet Access
The Greater Richmond Convention
Center is Virginia’s largest meeting
and exhibition facility. The
contemporary facility features a
178,159 sq. ft. exhibit hall, a 30,550
Lori Coyne
sq. ft. grand ballroom and a 258 fixedseat, auditorium-style lecture hall. See for yourself
why the Greater Richmond Convention Center is
the ideal venue for your next event!
WATERFRONT PLACE HOTEL
& MORGANTOWN EVENT CENTER
Two Waterfront Place
Morgantown, WV 26501
Contact: Jennifer Millstone
Phone: 304/296-1700 • Fax: 304/284-0523
[email protected]
wphotel.co
Banquet-1,500; Classroom-1,400;
Center, Fitness Facility, High-Speed Internet
Access, Indoor Pool, Lounge, Restaurant,
Overlooking the Monongahela River, Waterfront
Place Hotel offers an escape that is close to nature
and easily accessible to downtown Morgantown.
Our location in the revitalized Wharf District,
inviting atmosphere, spacious accommodations,
first-class service and multi-functional event space
make Waterfront Place Hotel an ideal venue for
business trips, trade shows and conferences.
Just a click away
to email your RFPs to sales representatives!
Become a fan and have access to special events
or post them to our page,
facebook.com/conventionforum.
For more information on advertising with
Convention Forum™, call 407/891-9941.
Four Virginia Society of Association Executive Members Earn CAE
The Virginia Society of Association Executives
(VSAE) is pleased to announce the following
members have earned the distinguished Certified
Association Executive (CAE) designation from the
American Society of Association Executives (ASAE):
VSAE is proud to boast
47 CAEs on its roster, 26
percent of the executive
membership.
28
Amanda Arwood
Vice President Marketing & Communications
Virginia Association of REALTORS®
Brenda Fogg
Member Relations Director
Virginia Society of Certified Public Accountants
Blake Hegeman, J.D.
Legal Counsel
Virginia Association of REALTORS®
Durant “D.” Walton
Executive Director
Virginia Telecommunications Industry Association
Virginia
Business and Pleasure in Norfolk
Seaport Destination Welcomes Meeting
& Convention Visitors to Stay and Enjoy
Family-Friendly Attractions
W
ithin a day’s drive of most cities
on the East Coast and home to
the easily accessible Norfolk International
Airport and new Amtrak service, this
waterfront city has surged in popularity as
a meeting destination.
Perfect for exploring, the city is best
enjoyed outdoors, whether by land, sea or
foot. Following a convention or a meeting,
guests can cruise the harbor in style on
the American Rover or tie up dockside for
the day with Norfolk’s variety of aquatic
attractions. Back on the dock, visitors can
explore the world’s largest battleship, the
Battleship Wisconsin. The adventurous set
can put their nautical skills to use with
SailTime Virginia, where personalized
sailing escapades allow novices and experts
alike to coast through summer.
The city offers more than 5,000 guestrooms and nearly 500,000 sq. ft. of
total meeting space, complete with
the latest in modern audio-visual
equipment. Another plus is a majority
of the meeting venues are within walking
distance of many of Norfolk’s most
popular attractions, including a row of
first-rate restaurants.
In addition to the many hotels
throughout Norfolk primed for hosting
meetings, a series of unique, off-site venues
now provide planners with even more
options. The city’s famed cultural centers,
historic theaters, museums, zoo and river
cruises double as alternative meeting
venues. The city’s unique and burgeoning
restaurant scene also provides planners
with another interesting choice of venue
for meetings and events. The 80,000 sq.
ft. Half Moone Cruise and Celebration
Center, which sits along the Elizabeth
River, serves as a premier venue for special
events. And getting around Norfolk has
never been easier, with the launch of
Virginia’s first light rail system, the Tide!
For more information, please contact
the sales department at VisitNorfolk at
800/368-3097 or visitnorfolktoday.com.
Donna Allen
Donna Allen
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
VisitNorfolk
Norfolk, Va.
800/368-3097 • 757/664-6620
visitnorfolktoday.com
[email protected]
Dynamic.
Diverse.
Distinct.
Norfolk is a vibrant port city full of fantastic meeting venues, fun things to do and fascinating things
to see. With its rich history, great weather, distinctive dining and
nightlife, there are endless possibilities. It’s the perfect destination for
your next meeting. Contact our sales team today to learn about our Sail
into Savings incentive program.
visitnorfolktoday.com | 1-800-368-3097
29
VSAE’s Fall 2013
Educational Symposium & Expo
This premier conference is designed especially for association executives, corporate
and government meeting planners or any business professional
who plans off-site meetings or events.
This event features:
• A breakfast keynote, “Analysis of Virginia Election
Results,” by Tom Morris, Ph.D., President, Virginia
Foundation for Independent Colleges
November 14, 2013
• Four educational sessions:
- Case Study: Finding Elusive Social Media ROI –
Ben Martin, CAE, Chief Engagement Officer,
Online Community Results
- Money Talks: Budget-Driven Meeting Planning to Impress
Your Boss and Advance Your Career – Janeé Pelletier, CMP,
Vice President, Conference & Logistics Consultants Inc.
- The Land of Social Media: Navigating the Twitterverse –
Tina Lambert, CAE, Vice President, Member & Public Relations, Virginia Society of CPAs
- Volunteer Victories: How to Recruit, Retain and Maintain Effective Leaders – Holly Duckworth, CMP, CAE, President & Chief
Connections Officer, Leadership Solutions International
• More than 60 product and service providers in the exhibit hall
• Three registration options are available: all day, half-day or Expo only
• A bonus event: Wednesday evening reception with exhibitors at the
Richmond Marriott Downtown, Wednesday, November 13, 5:30-7 p.m.
Learn more at vsae.org.
Registration is now open.
Continued from page 19
IndustryDevelopments
Five Properties Rebranded Under the
Omni Flag
Omni Hotels & Resorts has announced
the purchase of five distinguished resort
properties. The five iconic resorts have
been reflagged under the Omni brand,
representing a significant expansion
of Omni’s already-robust Resort
Collection. The reflagged properties are
the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa in
Austin, Tex; Omni La Costa Resort and
Spa in Carlsbad, Calif.; Omni Rancho
Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho
Mirage, Calif.; The Omni Grove Park
Inn in Asheville, N.C.; and The Omni
Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Va.
omnihotels.com
Renaissance Atlanta Waverly
Completes Renovations
Groups hosting meetings and events at
Universal Orlando Resort or elsewhere
in the Orlando area can now reserve
room blocks for Universal’s Cabana
Bay Beach Resort, the new 1,800-room
hotel at Universal Orlando Resort that
features value-priced guestrooms and
moderately priced family suites. The
hotel is scheduled to open in early 2014,
with reservations now being accepted
for stays beginning on Mar. 31, 2014.
uomeetingsandevents.com
HelmsBriscoe Founder & CEO Roger Helms, Visit Orlando
President & CEO George Aguel and HelmsBriscoe
Managing Director Danielle Boyles
Visit Orlando Receives HelmsBricoe’s
Destination of the Year Award
Visit Orlando received the Destination
Partner of the Year in the U.S. award
during HelmsBriscoe’s annual business
conference held in Orlando. The
presentation was made by HelmsBriscoe
Founder and CEO Roger Helms to
Visit Orlando President & CEO George
Aguel during the opening ceremony
on April 17 at the Hard Rock Live
Orlando. visitorlando.com
Hyatt and MGM Resorts Announce
Loyalty Program Reciprocity
Hyatt Hotels Corporation and MGM
Resorts International have announced
an unprecedented relationship between
their affiliates that will offer substantial
benefits to members of their loyalty
programs, Hyatt Gold Passport and
MGM Resorts’ M life. Hyatt Gold
Passport members are now able to earn
and redeem Hyatt Gold Passport points
at 12 iconic participating MGM Resorts
destinations in Las Vegas, and M life
members are able to earn M life Tier
Credits when staying at Hyatt hotels and
resorts around the world. goldpassport.
com; mlife.com
Westin Cape Coral Earns AAA
4-Diamond Rating
Starwood’s first Westin property in
Southwest Florida, The Westin Cape
Coral Resort at Marina Village, has
earned the esteemed AAA 4-Diamond
rating. This makes the waterfront
property the third resort in the Fort
Myers region to receive the award, a
distinction that less than 4 percent of
the nearly 59,000 reviewed properties
achieve. westincapecoral.com
Stephen Fitzgerald, vice president of hotels (Americas) for
Travelocity (right), presents the iconic Roaming Gnome 2012
Award of Excellence plaque to Ray Hammer, general manager
of the Sheraton Dallas.
Sheraton Dallas Hotel Receives
Travelocity 2012 Hotel Excellence
Award
The Sheraton Dallas Hotel, the largest
hotel in Texas and the largest Sheraton
in the United States, has received
the coveted Travelocity 2012 Hotel
Excellence Award. The award, which
is presented to less than 1 percent of
the hotels represented on Travelocity,
recognizes hospitality partners that
consistently provide guests with
exceptional service. starwoodhotels.
com/sheraton
31
Photo courtesy of Matthew Baugh
E
XCEEDING EXPECTATIONS DAILY!
200 Guest Rooms & Villas
Top Rated Staff
843.913.1333
8121 Amalfi Place
Myrtle Beach, SC
15,000 SF Event Space
www.marinainnatgrandedunes.com

Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort and Spa

Transcription

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