Building Indiana Meeting & Events 2014

MEETINGS EVENTS

2014

Inside This Issue Out of the Box | pg. 8 Anatomy | pg. 12 Retreat | pg. 18

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Contents 2014

06

Purpose

Thinking Differently About Business

08

Out of the Box A Little Creativity

12

Goes a Long Way

Anatomy

The Anatomy of a Successful Event

think wearables think diversified think specialties Thinking creatively and not traditionally is our passion.

Let the dynamic team at Diversified Marketing come up with your next gift or giveaway that will leave that lasting impression on your clients and prospects.

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Casino Double Down on Your Next Event

16 18 22

24

Facts & Stats

RETREAT

Retreating to Move Forward Tourism Destination: Development Directory

4

Meetings & Events 2014

Publisher’s Desk Concepts for a Lasting Impression

Specialized business meetings and events can be an outstanding way to market your company, and Northwest Indiana is one of the absolute best areas in the country for creative event planners to find amazing venues and innovative ways to bring their ideas to life. Yet, before today, there wasn’t a single publication in the region designed to inform professional audiences about all of these exciting possibilities.

In an effort to meet this need, our team at Building Indiana has created our first-ever special publication; our 2014 Meetings and Events issue, intended to present concepts and useful advice to companies looking to augment their image or enhance their staff through special events.

Fundamentally, it all boils down to one thing: making an impression. Whether your company is planning to educate its employees, or garnish some new clients, the impression your special event leaves on your audience is absolutely key for a successful outcome.

To better help companies achieve this goal, we’ve contacted experts from all over the Northwest Indiana meetings and events spectrum – from retreat facilitators, to venue managers, to event planners; all of this important advice has been condensed into Building Indiana’s traditional fast-read format.

Our hope is that this incredible expert advice assists companies grow through the use of tailored events – because we’re all part of the same business community, and the success of one impacts all.

With all of the exceptional venues and possibilities that our region offers, the potential for economic development exists across the board. Special events bring dollars into the community, and foster a sense of comradery among the individuals who attend – which carries the opportunity for the entire Northwest Indiana region to flourish.

We thank you for sharing in our excitement and enthusiasm about our brand new special issue, and we look forward to continuing to serve as your go-to resource for all of Indiana’s business news. As always, it’s our mission to bring the very best information available, directly from our desk to yours.

MEETINGS EVENTS 219.226.0300 • 317.632.1410 www.buildingindiana.com www.buildingindianablog.com

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 1330 Arrowhead Court Crown Point, IN 46307 Publisher/Editor Andrea M. Pearman apearman@buildingindiana.com Writer Nick Dmitrovich ndmitrovich@buildingindiana.com Contributer Jerry Davich Sales Tammie Reynolds treynolds@buildingindiana.com Ted Lykowski tlykowski@buildingindiana.com John Moore jmoore@thinkdiversified.com Art Directors Jeanette Cherry jcherry@buildingindiana.com Jeff Fogg jfogg@buildingindiana.com Accounting Craig Marshall cmarshall@buildingindiana.com Meetings & Events is published by Diversified Marketing Strategies WBE / DBE Certified

Visit us at thinkdiversified.com

Kind Regards,

Andrea M. Pearman Publisher

2006 Communicator Awards’ Award of Distinction 2009 Communicator Awards’ Award of Excellence 2011 Communicator Awards’ Award of Distinction

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2009 Davey Awards Silver Award

2006 Marcom Gold Award Winner 2007 Marcom Gold Award Winner 2008 Marcom Gold Award Winner 2010 Marcom Gold Award Winner 2013 Marcom Gold Award Winner

2006, 2008, 2012, 2013 APEX Award for Publication Excellence

2011 Communicator Award for Print & Design Distinction

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2007 Summit Creative Award 2010 Summit Creative Award 2012 Summit Creative Award 2013 Summit Creative Award

2008 Hermes Gold Award 2009 Hermes Gold Award 2010 Hermes Gold Award 2011 Hermes Gold Award

Andrea M. Pearman 2009 Small Business Journalist of the Year

2009 Nichee Magazine Award

2009 Silver Award 2010 Gold Award 2012 Bronze Award

Copyright ©2014 Meetings & Events is published once a year. Address correspondence to: 1330 Arrowhead Court, Crown Point, IN 46307. Publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts or art. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise duplicated without the written permission of the publisher. For general reprint information, contact Meetings & Events at apearman@ buildingindiana.com. All opinions and views are solely those of the participants or editors and are not necessarily the views of magazine sponsors.

e s o p r u p

Thinking Differently About Business

Special Events Boost Your Business, and Your Community

By Nick Dmitrovich

I

n today’s fast paced world, business is building positive public relations – and that’s really events can enhance your company’s image in the not limited to the confines of the office. just the tip of the iceberg. There are limitless ways eyes of the public, there are so many more.

Companies should be thinking big – for Companies need to be thinking of creative that special events can help achieve a business’s ways to promote themselves through their goals while promoting an inventive image of the example, you could develop a large toy drive around Christmas to not only showcase your networking events and their major meetings. The company in the eyes of its stakeholders.

Community themed events are also a great company’s generosity, but also develop team Northwest Indiana region offers so many diverse and interesting ways companies can think outside way for a company to generate media exposure, building strategies for employees through the the conference room and broaden their client particularly if the event involves the public or process. The end result would be a staff that base through greater appeal with efficient, and elected officials. Inviting the governor to your has developed enhanced cooperation skills, enjoyable, events. Yet, before today, there was no convention is a surefire way to get the media’s and some free PR, a two-birds-with-one-event single publication dedicated to highlighting these attention, and a good way to facilitate networking situation.

In today’s economy, companies have begun to opportunities with legislators. Incorporating ideas.

Simply put, we want companies to think charitable contributions into your plans is another look deeper into their impact on a community differently about their next meeting because a solid way of developing positive media attention; beyond the dollars that their employees take home little creativity might have a tremendous impact. the public will appreciate it, your accountants will each week. Not long ago, the Convention Industry Council, a non-profit federation Meetings and special of more than 30 leading U.S. events can be designed to satisfy a whole multitude of Meetings and special events can be designed to and international organizations involved in the meetings, corporate needs, including satisfy a whole multitude of corporate needs conventions and exhibitions providing specific training industry, published a study that and education to employees, boosting employee morale, developing team- love the tax deductions, and the recipients will said “meetings played a critical role in a recovering building strategies, networking with clients and be appreciative of the opportunity to use your economy, supporting jobs in communities across colleagues, attracting new business opportunities, donation to improve the quality of life for their America, creating environments that foster attracting media attention to a company and constituents. These are only two examples of ways innovation and business success.” This notion 6

Meetings & Events 2014

Top Reasons Your Company Should Host Business Events •

Generate Exposure and High-Quality Leads

•

Motivate Employees

•

Better Customer Interaction

•

Providing Training and Education to Employees

•

Attracting Media Attention and Gaining Positive Public Relations

•

Developing Team-Building Strategies

•

Philanthropic Opportunities

•

Networking

rings true throughout Northwest Indiana as well, as the dollars surrounding business events not only supported jobs throughout the region but also promoted companies throughout the region.

Local convention and visitors authorities are also willing to help major events make the transition from dream to reality. Porter County, for example, has developed programs to help develop major business and sporting events. Ken Kosky, Promotions Director for Indiana Dunes Tourism in Porter County, said, “While leisure is our main market, we do seek to increase sports and business travel. Indiana Dunes Tourism, offers marketing grants of up to $5,000 to help the venues and organizations in Porter County succeed in hosting sporting events, conferences, festivals and events.”

Additionally, Tippecanoe County’s Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette President Jo Wilson said that his organization estimates that in 2014 more than fifty thousand conference or convention delegates will visit the Lafayette area in addition to 600,000+ special event travelers, bringing in over $300 million to the local economy.

Also, the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority stated that there are currently more than 14,000 hospitality jobs in Lake County, IN, which are directly supported by major events.

The point of all of this is that businesses should be thinking differently about their special events, and taking advantage of all the potential they bring. The impact that major events have on the surrounding community is tremendous, which can be a very positive driving factor for any company or organization.

It’s a proven fact that humans are more engaged and interested in participating in things that are stimulating and exciting, which is really what companies should be striving towards. Why remain stifled by a traditional sales meeting when your company can excite your clients with a special banquet, festival or family outing? Northwest Indiana is the perfect place for these ideas to take root and flourish, and helping companies build upon these ideas is exactly the intention of our special issue of Building Indiana.

Here’s a look at the economic impact of major regional events: Economic Impact of Major Regional Events Event

Number of Attendees

Economic Impact

Chesterton Art Fair

8,000

$628,571

Porter County Fair

119,500

$6,614,186

Elvis FANtasy Fest

1,598

$337,930

Valparaiso Popcorn Festival

65,000

$4,164,753

Salvation Army Conference

1,000

$350,000

Hot Rod Power Tour

2,000

$175,000

NSA Girls Fast Pitch World Series

10,000

$1,250,000

Source: Indiana Dunes Tourism, South Shore CVA Meetings & Events 2014

7

X O B E H T F O T OU

A Little Creativity Goes a Long Way

Do Something Different with Your Next Business Event

By Jerry Davich

C

ompanies want their special meetings Blanc” event that began in Paris with just a few party favors, dance cards, golf cart tours and and events to be memorable - to stand friends who had the whimsical idea to plan an ushers to take them to their picnic tables. out against the norm. Taking a little impromptu flash mob by hosting a fancy picnic “Every organization has a conventional extra time to do something different with your in a public space. gala,” Ghuman said. “We wanted to stand out.” next major event could produce an outstand“We thought it was such a neat concept by Typically, this is the initial challenge with ing impression among members of your target being sort of an un-gala,” said Minakshi Ghu- business events of any kind, whether it’s a nonaudience, and could establish your company as man, a Taltree board member and event com- profit fundraiser, company retreat or corporate one to watch for years to come. mittee co-chair. bash. That’s why more event planning comThis notion resounded strongmittees are thinking outside the blasé ly with the brain-trust behind TalIt’s all about attention to detail and personal boilerplate of another generic affair.

Instead, they’re thinking outside, peritree Arboretum and Gardens, who touches, seasoned planners all agree. od, with a renewed focus on the natural wanted something never before seen in Northwest Indiana for lure of the great outdoors. their eighth annual fundraising gala.

The idea was for guests to arrive dressed “We’re seeing many more events here by They traveled back in time a quarter century in white from head to toe, carrying picnic bas- companies that want to take advantage of our - and to another country - to finally find the per- kets and expecting a buffet of mysteries after outdoor amenities,” says Renee Connelly, marfect concept for their event: “Picnic en Blanc.” they arrive at the picturesque 360-acre property. keting consultant for the South Shore Gary RailIt’s a creative spin-off of the classic “Diner en There, they received white roses, champagne, Cats baseball team, which plays at the U.S. Steel 8

Meetings & Events 2014

Walking Meetings

- An Offbeat Kind of Business Meeting

A rising trend in corporate culture is being labeled as “walking meetings,” where professionals leave the office to conduct business on foot.

Here are five reasons to try them at your next business event or board meeting: •

Physical activity energizes people and makes them more alert

•

Different environments can inspire new ideas and stimulate creativity

•

Time outdoors, in nature, with fresh air and light, improves physical and mental well being.

•

Walking and talking side by side cuts through hierarchical work distractions and sets people at ease, which enables a positive working spirit

•

Walking burns calories, and stimulates oxygen flow around the body increasing brain function and the ability to solve problems faster

Source: Planet Green, Ronnie Citron-Fink

Yard.

“Every company has outings, but this ballpark throws a strike every time for event planners and their guests,” she said. “It’s a way to conduct business while still getting out of the office to do so in a neat atmosphere and everyone enjoys and remembers.”

Each year, the ballpark hosts more than 800 corporate events, chamber outings, sales meetings, hospital health affairs, employee appreciation nights and other business getaways.

It’s already a trend in the professional ballpark industry, she says.

“It’s all how you market your stadium, and it’s a way for these new guests to see the ballpark in a new light, or even under the lights,” Connelly said.

Anthony Lopez, Director of Food and Beverage at White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point, understands that the lure of golf disguised as business attracts professionals across countless industries. But each event hosted at the club still needs to “land on the green,” so to speak.

“We look at the client’s ideas and ambition as the driving force behind each and every successMeetings & Events 2014

ful event,” he said. “Whether Out of the Norm - Target Your Audience When Barbara Grimsgard planned a lunthe reasoning for the event is fundraising and bringing awareness, cheon that was sponsored by the Asheville corporate relations, or just for fun, if North Carolina Convention and Visitors the client is fully enveloped in the success of the event then we know that we can meet the expectations of both the client and their guests.”

Depending on the particular needs of a company or organization, some events are designed to be professional, others are meant to tug on your heartstrings, and some are planned as an amusing recreational activity.

“Whichever type of event it may be, you will remember it for one reason or another and this truly makes you realize that, We have been in the food service industry for over 20 years and are ready to deep down, people really make your next banquet, wedding shower, or corporate function one to remember for many years to come. do enjoy the social aspects of specialized business We welcome you to invite your events,” Lopez said. friends and family to celebrate

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X O B E H T F O T OU

Bureau, she knew it had to have a distinct southern accent.

The 400 attendees walked into a ballroom to tables decorated with centerpieces of fresh herbs and spices, beautifully displayed in handmade artisan North Carolina pottery bowls.

Each guest received a two-inch bound cookbook, “The Best in Asheville Recipes,” from that city’s best restaurants and highest-quality beds and breakfasts.

“When the meal arrived, guests were told the entire meal was prepared from recipes in their cookbook, from the salad, entrée to dessert,” said Grimsgard, Communications Manager for the Center of Workforce Innovations, Inc. “Plus, all the chairs were draped with really cool aprons stating, “Welcome to Asheville, N.C.,” as another gift for guests.”

At the end of the luncheon, table centerpieces were raffled off, each one included the herbs and spices that the hotel chef used to prepare their meal from the cookbook.

This is precisely how to customize an event to its target audience, as well as how to spice one up with a little down-home creativity. It’s all about attention to detail and personal touches, seasoned planners all agree.

Andrea Pearman, owner of Diversified Marketing Strategies in Crown Point and orchestrator of The Midwest Smoke Out, said that many of her clients were becoming tired with run-ofthe-mill networking events and were seeking something different.

“When we started planning The Midwest Smoke Out, we knew that our guests were seeking a different method of reaching new business opportunities and new clients,” Pearman said.

“Over the years, the Smoke Out has grown into the largest cigar event of its kind in this region, and many of our guests have reported some outstanding new contracts that were formed during our event. When people gather together in a relaxed, fun atmosphere, they tend to really open up and communicate well with others.”

Jim Janesheski is an expert at personalizing major events with his popular and perennial “Jano Concerts on the Square” outdoor events in downtown Valparaiso.

“I think people loved the Jano Concerts because they represented a sort of “for the people, by the people” mindset,” Janesheski said.

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“These free festivals were made up of citizens and business owners coming together to throw a celebration of Valpo culture. They represented a true spirit of giving.”

“The events were a win-win for everyone.

The community received a free taste of Valpo and live concerts, while the business community enjoyed marketing benefits on many layers,” he said. “Small businesses have limited budgets to advertise, so festivals are an efficient means of allowing restaurants and businesses to create awareness of their brand, loyalty and product awareness. They offer an incredible return on investment.”

Another offbeat but memorable event was called the “Plumbers Ball,” a summertime event hosted by a well-known plumbing franchise in the region.

“Guests dressed formal from the waste up, and dressed like a plumber from the waste down,” recalls Chip Greenburg, a communications consultant from Hobart who has never forgotten the odd affair. “Toilets and bathtubs were filled with champagne and imported beers.

The food was over the top. Live music and live comedy were always the staple. It took place in a warehouse and was always looked forward to by the entire organization.”

Lopez, from White Hawk Country Club, recalled another unforgettable event, which is the ultimate goal of any company, organization or association.

“Each outing is in and of itself unique, some more than others. However it is always good to see when the host is the unsuspecting target of the event,” he said. “One year, some outing participants decided to enlarge the boss’ head to a poster size, cut it out, and place it on the course as a target.”

“All the outing players then drove balls a the boss’ head in place of shooting a regular shot.

Needless to say, this ended up being a competition of who could hit the boss most accurately in the head.”

What About Mother Nature?

There’s one word that never fails to strike fear into the heart of every outdoor event organizer - weather - especially in Northwest Indiana, where Mother Nature can be quite fickle.

“Who do you think stays up all night wor-

rying about the weather each and every night before the South Shore Air Show?” asks Speros Batistatos, CEO of the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority, which hosts the event each year. “It’s me and, let me tell you, I’ve lost a lot of sleep over the weather throughout the years.”

His staff member, Bethany Randolph, who handles special events and services, says safety is her top priority for outdoor undertakings.

“The hardest challenge is finding the right venue to be able to ensure that the site is controlled and safe for everyone,” she said.

Lopez agrees, considering his staff presides over a sprawling 36 hole facility spanning 600 acres of property.

“When hosting an event of that size with players on each of the course’s 36 holes, it can be quite the challenge to orchestrate all aspects of the day,” he said. “Luckily, this is a good challenge. In all honesty, our course is kind of like a huge playground where company executives and your everyday golfer alike can come out and enjoy a little recess.”

Tasha Raylene, owner of Virtuous Events in Michigan City, has created several outdoor affairs along the Lake Michigan Shoreline. Each time, her clients’ biggest fear isn’t the turnout, the decorations, or the quality of the amenities.

It’s that the heavens will open up and dampen the mood, or wind gusts will rearrange weeks of planning in a matter of seconds.

“We constantly monitor the Farmer’s Almanac for favorable conditions,” she said.

When Frontline Foundations, Inc. in Chesterton, hosted its 5th annual outdoor fundraiser, titled “Battle of the Bucks,” organizers routinely looked up to the sky as guests brought artwork from the agency’s incredibly gifted clients.

The faithbased, not-for-profit substance abuse recovery program for young adults helps treat clients

Meetings & Events 2014

ages 18 to 28, the highest risk group for addiction and peer pressure. However, it was Frontline officials who feared the highest risk that

day was the weather, which threatened to storm throughout the event.

“The weather is always the one factor that

can’t be nailed down in advance, delegated to a certain person, or controlled in any way,” said Derek Frazier, the agency’s Development Director.

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Five Tips

for Hosting an Outdoor Event

Form a detailed rain plan - Reserve a tent just in case of inclement weather. Often rental companies will let you reserve a tent for a fraction of its rental price, and this will be money well spent for the peace of mind of knowing you can quickly cover your amenities in the hours leading up to the event.

Defend against the elements - Insects and animals are uninvited guests that will inevitably crash your event, from early spring into late fall. To cut down on their numbers, consider having your venue sprayed for bugs the week or two before the event. Consider keeping food indoors (as much as possible) to minimize attracting unwanted pests.

Think like an electrician - An outdoor event often requires a lot of power between the band, caterer, lighting and fans, and photo booth.

Avoid using extension cords in a series if possible, as the further away from the main power source you get, the more likely it is that the power may trip. Also, to prevent your guests from possibly tripping, secure extension cords using U-shaped stakes from a home improvement store.

Provide adequate restroom facilities - Consider how many hours the event will span, whether alcohol will be served, and how many women versus men will attend. Generally two restrooms per 100 guests will suffice.

Ensure appropriate handicapped access - Be mindful of handicapped or elderly guests who may need a ramp to access areas of your event.

Source: Grand Stand Happening, Sara Wise

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From small meeting spaces to a dining room that accommodates 400 guests and an art gallery and intimate theatre, CVPA offers versatile accommodations for business meetings and special events. Call one of our event planners to see how we can help leave a lasting impression on your guests, 219-836-1930, ext. 2.

11

y m o t a n a

The Anatomy of a Successful Event

Strategies to Help Your Event Reach New Levels

By Jerry Davich

P

utting together a successful business event is a breeze, right? Not so fast. Pulling off an effective affair is easier said than planned, let alone executed. Not to mention making it productive, memorable and infusing your brand into it.

“Nothing is more important than a steady stream of communication,” adds Deann Patena, Director of Sales and Marketing at the Radisson Hotel in Merrillville. “If all parties involved remember this one tip, then the event will always be a success.”

“Communication is so crucial,” says Sarah Franzman from Avalon Manor in Hobart. “It’s important for clients to have a vision in mind for what their expectations are, so planners can help make their vision a reality.”

That vision should focus on the scope of the event and a designated “go-to person” from the company or organization hosting it.

“That way we can ensure all needs are met and no information is contradicting,” says Franzman, whose popular venue hosts up to 10 corporate functions a week during peak times of the year.

Certain organizations do a better job of coordinating their events with their venue, including the ARC of Northwest Indiana, Methodist Hospitals and Ivy Tech University.

12

“There are a lot of factors that come into play: space needed, vendor tables needed, head count, meal type and duration of event,” she says.

One key strategy involves creating a core group of five to 10 people who can be delegated certain roles for the event plan. That way, when the invitations go out, you’ll have momentum building through word of mouth.

“Finding the right leaders and volunteers is key for a positive event,” says Sue Reed, President and CEO of the Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce.

“Our most successful events are those that have a lot of volunteer participation. These events also have strong sponsorships from the business community,” she said.

Such events give chamber members the opportunity to network and connect with other businesses outside of the typical luncheon or chamber event.

“They’re more relaxed and social in nature,” Reed says. “They get to know each other from a different standpoint.”

Choosing the right keynote speaker is a huge draw for any event, says Andrew Kyres, Vice President and Retail Banking at First Financial Bank in Crown Point.

“I strive to select speakers who relate well with small business owners, corporate managers and

community leaders alike,” he said. “They must provide information that is timely, interesting and will enable our guests to achieve higher levels of success and accomplishment.”

Regardless of speakers, attendees or volunteers, don’t underestimate the potential impact of quality food, drinks and appetizers.

“The quality of food can make or break and event,” Franzman says. “A major reason that events are always such a success at Avalon is because our guests can rely on us to ensure their meals are served on time, hot and to order.”

However, be smart with the food choices, caterers say. For instance, if the event is a fundraiser for say, the American Heart Association, stay away from whipped butter, sour cream, Alfredo sauce, and cream puffs. Keep it healthy to reflect the host or recipient, and always tailor the menu to best fit the occasion.

Another key aspect that often gets overlooked is the on-site registration and check-in process. It’s the first impression for your attendees, and it’s essential to make that first impression a positive one.

For starters, it’s not a good idea to have two people checking in over 300 people. Event planners should make sure that their registration tables are well staffed, and run smoothly by friendly and inviting individuals. There’s nothing worse than some of your guests missing portions of your event due Meetings & Events 2014

{

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Event Planning Tips to Remember

Choose a venue first:

Create an agenda/itinerary:

Bring visual props:

Book it ASAP

Allow time for mingling and networking

Use photos and images to convey your takeaway

Begin as early as possible:

Remember the details:

Tell a story:

Send “save the date” announcements

Audio/video, rentals, liquor, music, floral

Market your message:

Consider your audience:

Transform a “charity fundraiser” into a “memorable experience”

Spread the word in a timely manner

Hors D’oeuvres and cocktails or beer and chips?

Money and mission:

Target your audience:

Remind guests why they were invited: Show them, don’t just tell them

Review:

Who should be invited?

to long lines in registration.

Also, poorly orchestrated events ignore things such as photography, rentals and floral accents, which can gently remind hurried or harried guests to literally “stop and smell the roses.”

“Most business meetings are devoid of fresh flowers and this has made the corporate business place a fairly sterile and unfriendly atmosphere for employees as well as consumers,” says Pat Fabian, owner of House of Fabian in Valparaiso. “But it seems so much more pleasant to me and others to include nature in the business place.”

This includes at events and meetings too, which can offer a fresh twist to any affair. Plants and flowers are “soft surfaces” helping to absorb sound and add oxygen to the air.

Pam Rhodes from Crown Party Rentals in Crown Point says novice event planners often forget about “afterthought” rental items until the last minute. These items include LCD projectors, wireless microphones, table linens, red velvet ropes and even a lectern.

“You’d be surprised but these things are easy to forget compared to all the other factors involved in planning a business event,” says Rhodes, Manager of the company’s party department.

Photographs offer a similar addition to an event, says Pete Stenberg, a professional photographer who’s been producing high-quality reflections of countless events for 30 years.

“My role as a photographer is to embellish any event with visual images that will add to a guest’s enjoyment, understanding and learning,” he says.

Meetings & Events 2014

Photography is a way for the event to be viewed, enjoyed and studied by others who could not attend in person. And video-recording is just as important to capture more than just an image.

There’s also the secondary factor of allowing event planners the chance to review the event after its completion, providing opportunities to reflect on successes and failures.

“Sound, music and speakers add another level of information that can add to an event far beyond the printer word or still images,” Stenberg says. “Without photo and video, guests have only their memories and imagination to communicate to others about an event.”

Jeff Coggins, President of American Greyhound, insists that “first-class fun” should be unleashed for a top-notch charity fundraiser.

Making sure that your event is fun and enjoyable is paramount for success.

American Greyhound / Great Lakes, Inc. rescues racing greyhounds from tracks and farms and then provides necessary veterinarian work, foster home care and adoptive homes for them to spend their lives as a family pet.

Were your budget and objectives met?

Ask for feedback from attendees and exhibitors alike

The organization is known for its perennially successful elaborate fundraisers which attract hundreds of guests that donate tens of thousands of dollars in just a few short hours.

“You have to make something fun, or guests won’t be back,” he said.

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13

NO I AS C

Double Down on Your Next EvenT Northwest Indiana Casinos Serve as Ideal Event Locations

By Jerry Davich

N

orthwest Indiana casinos these days meetings and events annually from corporate and who served for 14 years as director of catering and are not only for gaming, gambling and association meetings, outside of the regularly sched- convention at Trump Plaza in Atlantic City. “We’ve Vegas-styled glitz. They’re also flush with uled entertainment in The Venue. exceeded expectations since I arrived here.” top-notch amenities for business meetings, corpo“A standard meeting program can take an excitA national trend has slowly emerged in this rate events, trade show conventions, charitable fun- ing shape in a casino,” Williams says. “It can create region, too, after initially starting at landmark draisers and company getaways. excitement and break the traditional meeting mold casino sites in Las Vegas, Atlantic City and Lake Sure, gambling has always been the ace in the by hosting them in alternative venues, such as the- Tahoe. hole for casinos along Lake Michigan, from Ham- atres, lounges or creative restaurant spaces.”

“The use of banquet and meeting space has ofmond to New Buffalo. But all five casinos are now When coordinating meetings, the casinos realize ten been a practice for casinos, and throughout our catering to such events to complement their gaming that not every guest is there to gamble. company,” said Reginald Dotson, regional public offerings, whether it’s a casual weekday meeting for “You don’t have to gamble to enjoy our property relations manager for Ameristar Casino in East Chia small office or an upscale weekend affair for hun- and its other amenities,” says Timothy Adams, sales cago. “As casinos expand and renovate, the use of dreds of guests. and catering manager at Four Winds Casino Resort meeting space is often considered and utilized for “Meeting planners love our versatile spaces, in- in New Buffalo, Mich. additional business opportunities.” cluding The Venue, and some planners have even The casino’s 17,000-square-foot Silver Creek “Hosting meetings and events at Horseshoe has used our marina for events,” says Shelbeen part of the overall property goals ley Williams, director of sales of the “A standard meeting program can take an exciting shape in and achievement plans for several years,” eastern region for Caesars Entertainsays Williams, from Horseshoe. a casino. It can create excitement and break the traditional ment, which oversees the Horseshoe “Casinos featuring meeting space Casino in Hammond. “Horseshoe of- meeting mold by hosting them in alternative venues, such as have the benefit of becoming a destinatheatres, lounges or creative restaurant spaces.” fers these amenities right in the backtion on their own and they are attractive yard of many Indiana companies who Shelley Williams, Director of Sales of the Eastern Region for Caesars Entertainment for the meeting or event attendee,” she prefer to stay within the state or within says. “The features and excitement of a a short drive.” casino property with onsite restaurants, The Venue at Horseshoe, a 16,000-square-foot Event Center, opened in 2012, is routinely used for built-in entertainment, onsite parking, gourmet resevent space with state-of-the-art audio/visual onsite, various events, from single-day meetings to three- taurants and high quality food and beverage options is flanked by a 2,300-square-foot traditional ball- day conventions. Four Winds also boasts the only provide an overall experience many planners seek room, a 2,500-square-foot meeting and reception Hard Rock Café in the region for birthday and holi- for their attendees.” room, and numerous restaurants and bars with pri- day parties.

Such expanded offerings also came into play vate event options.

“These events add to the overall entertainment after the economic recession hit the casino indusCombined, they accommodate more than 150 value of what our property offers,” says Adams, try. Casinos had to reshuffle their deck of offerings 14

Meetings & Events 2014

for guests, knowing that gambling revenue needed a boost for overall profits.

“Corporate one-day meetings have been our most common event,” says Adams from Four Winds. “But the largest event we have had was a dinner dance for 800 guests.”

Continual renovations of these money-making facilities are as common as a bad beat at a poker table. And every casino has long-term plans for more facilities, more services and more expansion.

“We will continue to promote our meeting facilities and look forward to serving even more guests in the near future,” Dotson says.

“We are dedicated to the meetings and convention industry,” says Williams from Horseshoe.

“When we built our new building in 2009, we knew we wanted to get into the banquet and convention business,” says Jack Elia, Assistant General Manager at Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City. “It is a very profitable business.”

Blue Chip’s towering upgrades included the 15,000-square-foot Stardust Convention Center, which can break into six different rooms for various events – with combined seating up to 900.

“Then we went out and hired a sales team,” Elia says. “Guests tell them what they want to do and we set up the whole event.”

Similar to all local casinos, Blue Chip handles most any kind of event, from association conventions and golf outings to fishing charters and weddings packages.

“Some weekends see three or four weddings on our property,” Elia says.

“In Northwest Indiana, there really aren’t a lot of places that can meet all the event needs of many companies,” says Angela Gaghan, Blue Chip’s director of sales. “A lot of companies don’t want the responsibility of shuffling guests to different facilities, but we can encompass all of those things here.”

It’s difficult, if not impossible, to book all of Blue Chip’s 486 hotel rooms on weekdays, with most gambling guests filling rooms on the weekends. The banquet and convention services help this shortfall immensely while offering a tantalizing perk after a boring daylong meeting.

Also at all casinos – which compete for this business as much as for gaming guests – such hospitality aspects as personal service, food and beverage quality, and attention to detail become the

true “difference makers.”

“As guests are exposed to our facilities, they often become a reflection of the property, which is why we strive to provide memorable events,” said Dotson.

That casino hosts more than 70 events each year, primarily in its Discovery Ballroom. In all, Ameristar offers more than 5,000 square feet of meeting and reception space.

“We offer a perfect location for a corporate meeting, training session, private dinner, retreat or reception,” Dotson says. “Many guests are able to enjoy our delicious menu selections and outstanding service at these events, which serve as a great example of what they can expect throughout our casino.”

These event-catering amenities are used as a calling card for casinos and their ever-expanding properties, a familiar refrain from every casino’s marketing department.

It’s all about attracting guests to the property, boosting revenue and brand awareness and – with a little lady luck – drawing them back as loyal customers, either as guests or gamblers.

Lakeside Dining located Minutes from 80/94 Seating for up to 300 people Hotels Adjacent to Banquet Facility All Food prepared Fresh and on site Conducting memorable events for Over 20 years

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526 Indian Boundary Rd, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone:(219) 928-1514 www.waterbirdevents.com

15

s a F

Northwest Indiana is just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Facts about Business Events

79%

ct

s

&

St

a

t

Did you know?

79% of companies

Transportation options such as major highways, including I-65, I-80/90 and US 30, the Gary Airport, and the South Shore rail line allow for easy access to many of NWI’s communities and convention/meeting locations.

rank business events as important to their business.

90% of nonprofits rank events important or very important.

90%

Most businesses

hold educational events, including classes, training, seminars & workshops.

Nonprofits host more conferences than B2B and B2C organizations combined.

B2B companies hold classes

more often than other events.

B2C companies

Northwest Indiana has hundreds of thousands of square feet available for your next meeting, conference, or event.

5-8 weeks planning an event.

Source: Constant Contact survey, HubSpot

Most used Event Promo Methods Email Website Social Media Mailed Invites Press Releases Word of Mouth

16

approx. 660 sq. ft.

Courtyard by Marriott, Merrillville

Hilton Garden Inn, Chesterton

Hilton Garden Inn, Merrillville

Centennial Park, Munster

Lubeznik Center for the Arts, Michigan City

Majestic Star Casinos

and Hotel, Gary

approx. 1,600 sq. ft.

Halls of St. George, Schererville

approx. 16,595 sq. ft.

Blue Chip Casino, Hotel and Spa, Michigan City

hold social gatherings more frequently.

Most B2B companies spend

Inn at Aberdeen, Valparaiso

approx. 2,500 sq. ft. approx. 3,800 sq. ft. approx. 4,183 sq. ft. approx. 4,228 sq. ft. approx. 6,115 sq. ft.

over 20,000 sq. ft.

Ramada Conference Center, Hammond

approx. 21,335 sq. ft.

Center for Visual and Performing Arts, Munster

approx. 26,106 sq. ft.

The Barn at County Line Orchard, Hobart

approx. 28,000 sq. ft.

Horseshoe Casino, Hammond

over 32,000 sq. ft.

Avalon Manor, Merrillville

approx. 48,150 sq. ft.

Star Plaza, Merrillville

approx. 86,870 sq. ft.

Source: South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority

0

25,000

100,000

Square Feet

Meetings & Events 2014

Meeting and Event Activity to Increase for the Corporate Sectors in 2015 ∑

Research group MPI reported a 52% increase in the number of domestic corporations planning to hold meetings and events in 2015.

52%

∑

22% of surveyed companies said they’re planning on squeezing more meetings into less time.

∑

Conversely, the survey also found governmental agencies are planning to reduce meetings and events by as much as 54% in 2015.

Meetings & Events 2014

Educate, Generate Leads,

Get Donations

∑ 13% of the companies surveyed said they plan to hold more local/regional meetings to reduce travel.

Source: Meeting Professionals International

Top Reasons to Host Business Events

22%

Source: Constant Contact survey, HubSpot

Why it’s Important to Develop Effective Meeting Strategies ∑ Professionals lose 31 hours per month to unproductive meetings. That’s four work days each month. ∑ Of the 11 million meetings that occur in the U.S. every day, half the meeting time is actually wasted.

∑ 73 percent of professionals admit to doing unrelated work in meetings and 39 percent even dozed off in meetings.

Source: CBS News, Get a Klu, Wolf Management Consultants

73% 39%

17

T REA T RE

Retreating to Move Forward

Reflections on How Retreats Can Enhance Your Company

By Jerry Davich

A

business retreat can have a tremendous impact on your company, but there are many steps that need to be taken to ensure positive results. Knowing the do’s and don’ts of retreat planning can lead to outstanding outcomes for organizations that are seeking to enhance themselves by taking a step away from the office to focus on specific goals.

Dan Lowery, who serves as President of Calumet College of St. Joseph in Whiting, has facilitated dozens of retreats for companies, organizations and other groups. He’s learned many strategies over the years that stand as critical elements for helping companies grow though retreats. For starters, retreats should be tailored to their participants, knowing the company’s goals, language and challenges. Preparation is crucial.

“There’s a lot of skill involved,” says Lowery, who recently served as facilitator for the Early Learning Partnership retreat. “You can’t just cor18

ral everyone into the same room and hope for the best.”

Finding a respected, talented and experienced facilitator is no easy task. Can they keep a retreat flowing toward a predetermined goal of written “deliverables”? Can they keep everyone on the same page even if they seem to be using different books? Can they use the appropriate “theoretical model” for each group?

Lou Martinez, Executive Director of the Lake Area United Way, says a company or organization should consider a retreat to discuss the pros and cons of a significant shift in policy or direction, or development of a multi-year strategic plan to review and analyze operations, outcomes and measurements.

“While it’s not mandatory to high an out-ofhouse facilitator,” Martinez says, “A good facilitator will help frame the topic and draw out information and dialogue from participants.”

Karen Lauerman, President and CEO of the Lake County, IN Economic Alliance, suggested, “Northwest Indiana has many professionals from all walks of life, and from several foundations, that are happy to assist organizations with company retreats.”

Lowery says, “You know a good facilitator when you see one in action. A successful facilitator should feel a nurturing sense of responsibility.”

They need to be a good listener, possess a firm hand during shaky times, and be able to deliver the goods at the end of an event. One productive tool used for staying on topic is called a “parking lot,” where all digressive ideas or comments get written down – possibly on a dry erase board – until put into gear at a later time.

“You do it to honor a person’s contribution without letting it drive the conversation in the wrong direction,” Lowery says.

Still, some ideas or issues are so vital to the Meetings & Events 2014

event’s overall success that they must be discussed right there and then. Even if it temporarily pushes back the agenda.

“It’s usually the elephant in the room that simply begs to be talked about,” he says.

For example, are the members deeply divided on a key issue? Is the level of trust undermining the retreat’s success?

Does one sticking point keep seeping into the conversation?

It’s a facilitator’s job to ask the hard questions and move people to crucial conversations. Most pre-event “needs assessments,” in organizations both large and small, always cite two areas for improvement: communication and conflict resolution.

Desila Rosetti, President of Organizational Development Solutions, Inc. in Westville, is widely respected for her company’s expertise with human resources, strategic planning and focus groups.

“So spending the time helping groups learn how to communicate and problem solve is worth the investment,” Rosetti says.

Lowery adds, “This is why it’s so important for a facilitator to meet beforehand with key board members. To understand the dynamics behind the scenes. It’s all very circumstantial.”

Rosetti agrees, saying it’s critical to understand the organization, its history and its culture.

“There are too many things that can be said or done that will divert attention from the objectives or alienate participants when a facilitator has not been given adequate information or has not done their homework,” she says. “Many facilitation skills are transferable, so knowing the intimate details about every process is not as important as tools for effective facilitation.”

A good facilitator counts on those in attendance to have “process knowledge,” and they count on the hose to have the proper tools to help them get to where they want to go.

Meetings & Events 2014

“Otherwise, it may seem like everyone is just aimlessly talking,” Lowery says. “Instead of working together to solve the challenges at hand.”

Rosetti Cites Three Critical Factors to Hosting a Successful Retreat: “First, assure clear objectives of what you would like to accomplish in the time you are together,” says Rosetti, an Assistant Professor at Calumet College of St. Joseph. “Time is money, so the facilitator as well as those attending need to know the objectives and be prepared for important discussions that might be planned.”

Second, make sure you have a facilitator who has the proper knowledge and experience.

“I’ve seen many retreats go way off course because the facilitator’s agenda, and not the objectives of the group, is driving the discussion,” she said.

Third, plan ahead to make sure that it is well attended.

“If attendance is not optimal, there are fewer ideas generated or opportunities to build consensus around critical issues,” she suggests. “Time is then needed later to bring those who didn’t attend up to speed and, in the case of critical decision making, those not in attendance later challenge the work that was completed and in many cases derail efforts.”

Rosetti says the best retreats are often the ones when participants are “chosen” to attend, rather than required.

In one of Rosetti’s post-retreat evaluations, a participant wrote, “It was great that my company was willing to invest in me and that we could attend such high quality training so close to home. There were many takeaways I plan on implementing as soon as I return to work.

The time spent with others also let me know that I am not out there alone. The people in my company want me to be successful.”

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Freddy’s Steakhouse has a private room that accommodates up to 65 people. Available for business meetings, showers, graduations, funeral luncheons or special gatherings.

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Home of the Cesare Battisti Lodge #27

First Class Banquet Facility Business Events Corporate Training Three Beautifully Coordinated Rooms Outdoor Space Accommodations for up to 800 guests

Book Your Event Today

219.322.3011 | Info@VillaCesare.com 900 Eagle Ridge Drive, Schererville, IN 46375

19

T REA RE

T

Thinking of

?

Facilitating a Retreat

Prior to Retreat:

During Retreat:

After Retreat:

• Determine objectives with key stakeholders

• Share objectives and methods

• Document “findings” and “decisions”

• Identify and secure agreement on decision- making or planning model to be used

• Adhere to model (Assign extraneous topics to “parking lot”)

• Identify team that will advance these findings and decisions

• Determine who should be involved

• Record “findings” and “decisions”

• Ask for evaluations to improve the next one

• Determine the date(s) and duration of the retreat

• Share next steps

• Determine the location of the retreat; offsite is often better

• Evaluate

• Develop and secure agreement on agenda • Assemble materials to be used • Circulate agenda among attendees a day or two in advance to set the stage

{ Outline to Keep in Mind } Good plan: Think through all the details out-

Invite the right people: Make sure to

lined, including use of a facilitator

include people who will be involved in the process

Clear purpose: Communicated to all

Comfortable, convenient location:

participants prior to attending

Assure good facilities, equipment and refreshments

One goal in mind: Don’t combine several

Follow-up plan: Everyone hates a retreat

issues, which can dilute its effectiveness

where the work completed is not utilized

20

Meetings & Events 2014

{

Tips and Tricks to Remember

}

Don’t miss out

on the next issue of

Logistics: You may want to break out certain areas for small groups, need wall space to post flip-charts or Post-it notes, or have need for a formal boardroom. Choosing a poor space, such as one that’s too small, or has poor acoustics, will distract from the success of the retreat and future willingness of people to attend.

Seating: There’s a few clever tricks when planning seating for a retreat. If using a roundtable for discussion, seat the most outspoken participant next to the facilitator so he or she can be kept in check without having eye contact prompting them to talk again and again. Also, seat individuals that are shy, or introverted, directly across from the facilitator. That way, all they have to do is raise an eyebrow and it allows the facilitator to call on them for input.

2015

Reserve your space today!

Call 219.226.0300

or email at treynolds@buildingindiana.com

Refreshments: Poor food and beverage can affect the overall mood and impression of the retreat. Make sure that your refreshments are high-quality and plentiful.

Should a Facilitator

Always be Used?

A facilitator is not required, however a company must have a leader who is capable, objective and unbiased.

It’s important to find someone to facilitate who is “from the outside looking in,” for an unbiased viewpoint. Still, Northwest Indiana has many professionals from various foundations who are happy to assist organizations with company retreats.

A quality facilitator is trained in group dynamics, teambuilding, consensus building and group decision-making tools.

Such a facilitator can also see or hear issues and is able to address them, something an inside facilitator or leader may not be willing to tackle.

Meetings & Events 2014

21

m s i r u o t

Destination: Development

Tourism Revenue Boosts the Region’s Economy Across the Board

By Jerry Davich

T

hink quick: What’s the first thing that their region’s potholes. They are spending their $1,093 more in annual taxes without the tax revcomes to mind when hearing the word discretionary money in our economy, so that has a enue generated by the tourism and travel industry.

“Travel and tourism is important because it genhuge impact on countless businesses here,” he says. “tourism”?

This “trickle-down-tourism” effect reaches the erates more than $300 million every year for Porter For tourism officials in Northwest Indiana, tourism means revenue, which these days go cash registers of local restaurants, dry cleaners, gro- County’s economy,” Weimer says. “Business traveltogether like a smart phone and apps. Pump- cery stores, florists, hotels, niche stores, you name it. ers are important to the region and our economy In Indiana, $10 billion is spent annually on because the average overnight visitor spends about ing into this local revenue stream are businessrelated events, meetings, conventions, as well as tourism and travel, with tax receipts totaling $2.1 $93 per day, while the visitor in for the day spends an sports and trade shows, among other happen- billion and related jobs topping 100,000, accord- average of $40.”

Business events and meetings also draw outing to the Indiana Tourism Association. More than ings.

“We see all the various people coming to our 90 percent of all tourism entities are comprised by siders who would otherwise not know about this county – whether they are here for leisure, business, small businesses in the Hoosier state, making it the region and its seemingly hidden amenities, tourism officials agree. motor coach tours or sports – as being important,” third largest industry.

“Business events are our weekday business and “Spending by visitors, including business travelsays Lorelei Weimer, Executive Director of Indiana Dunes Tourism, based in Porter County. “The far- ers, imports cash into our communities, which cre- are very important to our local tourism industry,” ther away they come from, the more likely they are to ates jobs, improves the quality of life for our resi- says Ashley Gregory, group tours and meeting manager for Visit Lafayettestay in our hotels and spend “Business events are our weekday business and are very important West Lafayette. “The guests more money in our comto our local tourism industry,” spend money in our commumunities.” nity, at our hotels, restaurants, Tourism is crucial for Ashley Gregory, group tours and meeting manager for Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette shops, attractions and gas stathe local economy, whether tions.” its impetus is for business, “We have a wide variety of industry in our leisure or travel purposes. Many service industries dents and is the front door to traditional economic area, several with international ties as well as to along the Lake Michigan shoreline depend on tour- development,” Weimer says.

For example, in Lake County during the month Purdue University, all of which draw visitors ism to stay afloat, including hotels, casinos, restauof June alone, close to 10,000 attendees converged from outside our state and our country,” Gregory rants and entertainment venues.

“The beauty of the hospitality industry, spe- for several conventions, including for the Fraternal says. “Most of those visitors probably would not cifically tourism, is that we are bringing in people Order of Police, the Salvation Army and Crusaders have a need to come to our community if those from somewhere else outside of this region,” says Ministries. Coupled with the Hot Rod Power Tour businesses and Purdue were not located here.”

Batistatos’ award-winning CVB operates a few Speros Batistatos, president and CEO of the South in Crown Point, those events generated an estiShore Convention and Visitors Authority, based in mated $1 million in economic impact in this region. events on its own, such as the popular South Shore Nationally, $2.1 trillion in economic impact is Air Show. But the organization also co-pilots with Lake County.

“It’s real simple,” says Batistatos, who has 24 generated with $887 billion spent directly by do- many groups and businesses, totaling hundreds of years in the industry. “When region residents spend mestic and international travelers, spurring an ad- events each year.

“We have our hands in a lot of things in the their paychecks here, we’re paying local govern- ditional $1.2 trillion in other industries, according Northwest Indiana region, not just Lake Counment that has to pave our streets, fix our potholes, to the U.S. Travel Association.

One of the hidden perks of tourism – includ- ty,” he says. “We’ll work with any group and we educate our kids and do all the things a government ing in this region – is that it reduces taxes from lo- have certain staff members who work behind the has to do.”

“We don’t have to educate visitor’s kids or fill cal residents. Each American household would pay scenes to service these companies, organizations 22

Meetings & Events 2014

and conventions.”

“It’s all about booking the right event at the right time at the right location,” he says.

Hotel bookings are a common barometer of success for destination marketing organizations, or DMOs. Last year, 65.3 percent of Lake County hotel rooms were booked. It was the best rate in the region.

Another telling figure in the industry is “revenue per available room,” or RevPar, a performance metric which is calculated by multiplying a hotel’s average daily room rate by its occupancy rate. It also reflects how much money that room will make in an area.

“This figure is the holiest of holies in the hospitality industry,” Batistatos says.

In Lake County, that figure is roughly $52 per hotel room, compared to $59 per room in Marion County.

Occupancy rates also play a role in calculating economic success from tourism. For instance, when a region’s occupancy rate hovers above 70 or 75 percent, then new construction often begins.

“Destinations that attract visitors also attract business developers,” Weimer says. “The state of Arizona estimated that 50 percent of new business that either developed or moved to its state happened because the company CEO started out as a visitor.”

Indiana Dunes Tourism is fortunate to have the beautiful Indiana Dunes in its backyard, which attracts more than 3 million people each year. That’s nearly as many tourists who visit the internationallyrenowned Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming.

“The Indiana Dunes is our main draw,” she says. “This makes the leisure travel industry our primary one but it also supports and encourages

business travel. And, as in the case of Arizona, we hope that the excellent recreation opportunities, good schools and positive business climate result in the attraction of new businesses.”

This is just another example how local tourism and regional business go together like Lake Michigan and crowded beaches.

“Business travel and leisure travel are actually intertwined,” Weimer says. “Increasingly, business travelers are combining business and leisure, often bringing their spouses and children with them on trips to destinations where there are leisure activities that their families will enjoy.”

This way, while a business professional conducts company business or attends meetings in our area, that person’s spouse and children might be enjoying attractions such as, in Porter County, the Indiana Dunes, Taltree Arboretum, Portage 16 Imax Theater and Broken Wagon Bison Farm.

“At the end of the day, the businessperson will generally join his family for dinner at a local restaurant, too,” Weimer points out. “These business families often extend their stay a day or two to have some relaxation time together if the destination has attractions of interest to them.”

Gregory, from the Lafayette CVB, takes this concept one step further.

“Some guests enjoy our area so much they will come back with their families or bring their families to the meetings they attend,” she says. “And also to explore some of these things on their own or hold their own meetings in the area.”

The business market is a valuable market but, in many cases, it is dictated by the businesses in each community, Weimer says. For example, if a business is located in Valparaiso, it might draw people for a meeting and host them at its own facility. Or if

guests need extra space, it will rent a hotel meeting room or a banquet facility.

“Our organization also provides grants of up to $5,000 to organizations that are bringing large meetings to our area,” Weimer says.

Such grants act as an incentive to get organizers to visit this region and return again and again. For example, a group of “weights and measures” professionals received a grant to host a large meeting, and those officials recently visited Weimer’s CVB to talk about securing a grant for a return meeting.

“While we can’t compete with Chicago and Las Vegas for auto show-sized conventions, we have excellent choices for smaller events, like the Porter County Expo Center in Valparaiso, Woodland Park in Portage and Inspiration Wood in rural Porter County,” Weimer says.

Much of the hospitality industry’s work takes place behind the scenes, though its fingerprints can be found on all facets of drawing outside visitors – and their money – to this multi-county area.

“We can help find appropriate meeting space, hotels, off-site activities, and arrange tours for spouses or families,” Gregory says. “We also provide brochures and other promotional materials, provide local media contacts, and help with entertainment or speaker suggestions.”

“Porter County has a track record of success when it comes to hosting a business event once and then getting it to return time and time again,” Weimer says.

Batistatos agrees: “When outside business guests don’t know how these events seem to magically take place, this means that the hospitality industry is doing its job.”

{Five Facts

}

1. In 2012, Indiana tourism spending totaled $10.1 billion 2. Visitor spending translated to more than $7.7 billion in Indiana Gross Domestic Product 3. Direct employment within Indiana travel, tourism and hospitality industry eclipses 139,900, making it the sixth-largest industry in the state (excluding government) 4. Tourism pays direct wages of over $3 billion to full and part-time employees 5. Indiana retains approximately 76% of each dollar spent by visitors Source: Indiana Tourism Association

Meetings & Events 2014

23

y r o ct e r i d s s e n i s u b

Keeping You Informed about all of NWI’s Meetings and Events Opportunities Welcome to your one-stop resource to help your next business event be a smash hit with your audience! Our Meetings and Events special edition wants to develop the most in-depth and up-to-date listing of all the businesses that make professional events happen throughout Northwest Indiana, both in print and through an easily accessible online format.

Before today, there wasn’t a single concise listing of event-related companies anywhere in the region – and we’re proud to be the first to bring this valuable information right to your office.

Here you’ll find listings of event venues, casinos, independent caterers, audio/visual experts, event planners, golf courses, and so much more. It is our hope that your company can utilize this guide as a handy tool for your next major event – the possibilities are endless.

For the most up to date listings, visit our website at: www.buildingindiana.com To see your company’s name listed here, simply visit our website and provide your information.

Event Venues The Allure 301 B Street La Porte 46350 (219) 369-6456 www.allureone.com LBSC: 320 guests Special Services: in-house catering, sound and lighting amenities available Ameristar Casino Hotel 777 Ameristar Boulevard East Chicago 46312 (219) 378-3313 www.ameristar.com Total Meeting Space: 5,369 sq. feet Special Services: in-house catering available, in-house audio visual equipment for rent, 1974 space-covered parking garage Avalon Manor 3550 East US Route 30 Merrillville 46410 (219) 945-0888 www.avalonmanor.com LBSC: 1,200 guests Special services: access to audio visual equipment, telephones, computers and electrical lines; free wireless broadband throughout the building, in-house catering available

Best Western Lafayette Executive Plaza & Conference Center 4343 South Street Lafayette 47905 (765) 447-0575 www.bestwestern.com LBSC: 300 guests LTSC: 450 guests Special Services: event planner available, in-house catering and food service, free wired microphones, podiums, projection screens, whiteboards and flip charts; other audio visual equipment available for additional charge, complimentary parking Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa 777 Blue Chip Drive Michigan City 46360 (219) 879-7711 www.bluechipcasino.com LBSC: 870 guests LTSC: 1300 guests Special Services: 3 ballrooms and 15 flexible meeting rooms, executive boardroom, complimentary internet, in-house audio visual, personal event manager, in-house catering

Calumet Conference Center at Purdue University Calumet 2300 173rd Street Hammond 46325 (219) 989-3136 www.uniquevenues.com/calumetcenter LBSC: 250 guests Special Services: 11 room conference facility Centennial Park Banquet Facilities 1005 Ridge Road Munster 46321 (219) 836-6930 www.munster.org LBSC: 210 guests Special Services: three in-house caterers, view overlooking Maynard Lake The Center for Visual and Performing Arts 1040 Ridge Road, Munster 46321 (219) 836-1930 www.cvpa.org LBSC: 450 guests Special Services: audio visual equipment, flat screen TV, in-house catering and tray food service The Cloister in the Woods 1101 Park Drive, Munster 46321 (219) 838-9900 www.cloisterinthewoods.com LBSC: 230 guests Special Services: meals prepared on-site by Comforts Catering, event planners, AV equipment available Dynasty Banquets 4125 Calumet Avenue Hammond 46320 (219) 933-0505 www.dynastybanquets.com LBSC: 600 guests LTSC: 600 guests Special Services: in-house catering and food service, complimentary small screens, easels and podiums, other audio visual equipment available for rent, lodging at the Ramada Inn next door available for all guests Four Winds Casino Resort 11111 Wilson Road New Buffalo, MI 49117 (866) 494-6371 www.fourwindscasino.com LBSC: 1000 guests LTSC: 1600 guests Special Services: in-house catering, on premise video supplier, hotel room blocks available

Horseshoe Hammond 777 Casino Center Drive Hammond 46320 (866) 711-7463 www.horseshoehammond.com LBSC: 1000 guests LTSC: 2500 guests Special Services: complete meeting planners, in-house catering and service, state-of-the-art technology Innsbrook Country Club 6701 Taft Street Merrillville 46410 (219) 980-9060 www.innsbrookcc.com LBSC: 225 guests La Porte Civic Auditorium 1001 Ridge Street La Porte 46350 (219) 362-2325 www.laportecivicauditorium.com LBSC: 752 guests LTSC: 1620 guests Special Services: kitchen available for rent, sound and lighting available for rent Lencioni Pub and Banquets 3325 Glenwood Dyer Rd Lynwood, IL 60411 (708) 895-6844 Lencionicatering@yahoo.com Special services: accommodating large or small parties, catering picnics, and off and on site functions Majestic Star Casino and Hotel 1 Buffington Harbor Drive Gary 46406 (888) 225-8259 www.majesticstarcasino.com LBSC: 400 Meyers Castle 1370 Joliet Street Dyer 46311 (219) 865-8452 www.myerscastle.com LBSC: 380 guests Special Services: in-house catering, gardens, ponds and other scenery surrounding Morris Inn Notre Dame 1399 Notre Dame Avenue South Bend 46617 (574) 631-2005 www.morrisinn.nd.edu LBSC: 225 guests LTSC: 225 guests Special Services: conference planning team and service, high-speed internet, in-house audio and visual capabilities, in-house catering

*LBSC - Largest Banquet Style Capacity *LTSC - Largest Theatre Style Capacity

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Meetings & Events 2014

Palais Royale 105 W Colfax Avenue South Bend 46601 (574) 235-5612 www.palaisroyale.org LBSC: 850 guests Special Services: on-site catering provided by Masterpiece Creations, custom designed menus The Pavilion at Sandy Pines 10527 Bunker Drive De Motte 46310 (219) 670-3766 www.sandypinespavilion.com LBSC: 200 guests Special Services: on-site catering, audio equipment available for rent, free parking, outdoor setting The Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza 800 East 81st Avenue Merrillville 46410 (219) 769-6311 www.radisson .com LBSC: 860 guests LTSC: 1400 guests Special Services: complimentary wireless internet, in-house catering and food service, on-site audio visual department

The U.S. Steel Yard-Gary Southshore Railcats One Stadium Plaza Gary 46402 (219) 882-2255 www.railcatsbaseball.com LBSC: 300 guests Special Services: overlooks home plate, available on game days and other days, all you can eat menus available

White Hawk Country Club 1001 White Hawk Drive Crown Point 46307 (219) 661-1300 www.riverpointcc.net LBSC: 250 guests Special Services: event coordinator, in-house catering and service, personalized meals per person

Villa Cesare 900 Eagle Ridge Drive Schererville 46375 (219) 322-3011 www.villacesare.com LBSC: 800 guests Special Services: in-house catering and food service, event planners

Audio Visual

WaterBird Banquet Center 526 Indian Boundary Chesterton 46304 (219) 928-1514 www.waterbirdevents.com LBSC: 300 guests Special Services: in-house catering and food service

AAY’s Rental 811 W Edison Rd Mishawaka 46545 (574) 256-1100 www.aaysrental.com Services: equipment rentals including projectors, screens and cables All in One Party Rentals & Sales 5445 Broadway Merrillville 46410 (219) 887-9644 www.allinonepartyrentals.com Services: equipment rentals, wedding rentals, event rentals

Ascend AV 5377 72nd Avenue Schererville 46375 (219) 595-2690 www.ascendav.com Services: sound, video and lighting equipment rental, video presentations, DJ services, creative lighting Highway 61 Films 23 Lincolnway 3A Valparaiso 46383 (219) 309-5236 www.highway61films.net Services: video production Markey’s Rental & Staging 800 East 81st Avenue Merrillville 46410 (219) 736-6936 509 Ley Road Fort Wayne 46825 (260) 483-0528 www.markeys.com Services: audiovisual equipment rental, audiovisual support, digital signage, exposition services

Call us to take of your business and then some time for pleasure!

Book your business meetings in the morning ...

Tee time in the afternoon!

Room rental is waived,

with a 200.00 in house catering order Some restrictions apply

Banquet & Clubhouse 1005 S. Centennial Drive Munster, IN • (219) 836-6930 eventmanager@munster.org *LBSC - Largest Banquet Style Capacity *LTSC - Largest Theatre Style Capacity Meetings & Events 2014

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Pro Show 5306 Breezewood Drive Mishawaka 46544 (574) 255-1200 www.proshowdj.com Services: professional DJ service, specialty audio/visual rentals, ceremony audio systems, highlight lighting, business presentation systems Rent-A-Bit.com 4226 Meghan Beeler Court Suite 3 South Bend 46628 (574) 674-5973 www.rentabit.com Services: audio visual rentals, live event production and staging, convention and tradeshow equipment Spinnin Productions Covers all of Illinois and Indiana (219) 805-2754 www.djshaunkelly.com Services: professional DJ services, Pristine JBL sound system, dance floor up lighting, photo booth

CASINOS Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago 777 Ameristar Boulevard East Chicago 46312 (866) 667-3386 www.ameristar.com Hotel / # of Restaurants: Yes / 5 Special Services: slots, video poker, table games, baccarat room, 4 floors Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa 777 Blue Chip Drive Michigan City 46360 (888) 624-9618 www.bluechipcasino.com Hotel / # of Restaurants: Yes / 5 Special Services: 8 live poker room tables, B connected program Horseshoe Casino Hammond 777 Casino Center Drive Hammond 46320 (219) 473-7000 www.horseshoehammond.com Hotel / # of Restaurants: N/A / 6 Special Services: free shuttle service, casino credit, Asian gaming area, total rewards visa, beverage on demand Majestic Star Casino Hotel 1 Buffington Harbor Drive Gary 46406 (888) 225-8259 www.majesticstarcasino.com Hotel / # of Restaurants: Yes / 4 Special Services: casino credit, live poker room, non-smoking level 26

Four Winds Casino 11111 Wilson Road New Buffalo, MI 49117 (866) 494-6371 www.fourwindscasino.com

Golf Courses Beechwood Golf Course 2222 Woodlawn Drive La Porte 46350 (219) 362-2651 www.thebeechwoodgolfcourse.com Special Services: Pro shop, chipping and putting areas, driving range, PGA staff The Brassie Golf Club 1110 Pearson Road Chesterton 46304 (219) 921-1192 www.thebrassie.com Special Services: pro shop, putting areas, driving range, snack bar, pavilion, PGA staff Briar Leaf Golf Club 3233 N State Road 39 La Porte 46350 (219) 326-1992 www.briarleaf.com Special Services: outdoor heated range tee, practice areas, pro shop, on-site restaurant Briar Ridge Country Club 123 Country Club Drive Schererville 46375 (219) 322-3660 www.briarridgecc.com Special Services: golf course, club house, pool, cabana, tennis courts Brick Boilermaker Golf Complex 1300 Cherry Lane West Lafayette 47907 (765) 494-3139 www.purduegolf.com Special Services: golf training center, golf lessons, club fitting and repair Fort Wayne Country Club 5221 Covington Road Fort Wayne 46804 (260) 432-2581 www.fortwaynecc.org Special Services: outdoor restaurant, tennis courts Innsbrook Country Club 6701 Taft Street Merrillville 46410 (219) 980-9060 www.innsbrookcc.com Special Services: on-site restaurant, men’s and women’s locker facilities, pro shop

Lafayette Country Club 1500 South 9th Street Lafayette 47905 (765) 474-3015 www.lafayettecountryclub.net Special Services: golf course, pool, tennis courts

White Hawk Country Club 1001 White Hawk Drive Crown Point 46307 (219) 661-1300 www.whitehawkcountryclub.com Special Services: on-site restaurant, instruction available

Long Beach Country Club 2309 Larchmont Avenue Michigan City 46306 (219) 872-0689 www.longbeachcc.org Special Services: olympic size swimming pool, tennis courts, pro shop, driving range

Youche Country Club 2301 W 129th Place Crown Point 46307 (219) 663-1418 www.youchecc.com Special Services: practice facility, pro shop, bag room service, club fitting services

Lost Marsh Golf Course 1001 129th St. Hammond 46320 (219) 932-4653 www.lostmarshgolf.com Special Services: club House , Pro Shop Palmira Golf & Country Club 12111 W 109th Street St. John 46373 (219) 365-4331 www.palmiragolf.com Special Services: restaurant, putting green, driving range Pottawattomie Country Club 1900 Springland Avenue Michigan City 46360 (219) 872-8624 www.pottawattomie.com Special Services: cocktail lounge, pool, pro shop Sand Creek Country Club 1001 Sand Creek Dr. Chesterton 46304 (219) 395-5200 www.sandcreek.com Special Services: award winning world class golf, golf shop, health club, fitness programs South Bend Country Club 25800 Country Club Drive South Bend 46612 (574) 282-2520 www.southbendcc.com Special Services: driving range, practice green, locker rooms, golf shop, pool Tippecanoe Country Club 3267 NW Schafer Drive Monticello 47960 (574) 583-9977 www.tippecanoecc.com Special Services: pro shop, practice facilities, on-site restaurant

CATERERS Café Borgia 10018 Calumet Avenue Munster 46321 (219) 922-8889 www.cafeborgia.com Special Services: Italian Cuisine, full-service available Elite Catering at Water’s Edge Restaurant 12 on the Lake in Washington Park, Michigan City 46360 (219) 873-1788 www.watersedgemc.com Special Services: customized menus, bar service and wine selection, china and stemware, music, floral, venue selection Freddy’s Steakhouse 6442 Kennedy Avenue Hammond 46320 (219) 844-1500 www.freddyssteakhousehammond.com Special Services: entire menu available for catering, custom menus available, staff attends event Gino’s Steakhouse 1259 Joliet Street Dyer 46311 600 East Lincoln Highway Merrillville 46410 (219) 865-3854 / (219) 769-4466 www.ginossteakhouse.com Special Services: steaks, chops, pasta, seafood Lencioni Catering 3325 Glenwood Dyer Rd. Lynwood, IL 60411 (708) 757-4304 Lencionicatering@yahoo.com Special Services: full service “Custom Catering to your every need” Meetings & Events 2014

The Patio 7706 Broadway Merrillville 46410 (219) 799-7990 www.thepatiorestaurantin.com Special Services: customized menus, professional bartenders and servers

Bella Photography 1150 W Lincoln Highway Valparaiso 46385 (219) 736-5217 www.bellaphotographs.com Services: commercial, portraits, seniors, weddings

Pepino’s Italian Restaurant 2410 Ontario Street Schererville 46375 (219) 365-9680 www.pepinosindiana.com Special Services: catering packages and a la carte items, chicken specialties, delivery and set-up available

Edda Taylor Photographie Courthouse Square, Suite 304 Crown Point 46307 (219) 662-9500 www.eddataylor.com

Pestos Italian Restaurant and Catering 3123 Calumet Avenue Valparaiso 46383 (219) 462-0993 www.pestos.net Special Services: luncheons, special occasion buffets, plated and served meals, corporate deliveries Philippe’s Catering 719 Ridge Rd. Munster 46321 (219) 836-8000 Purdue’s Catering and Events 101 North Grant Street West Lafayette 47906 (765) 494-8908 www.union.purdue.edu cateringandevents/ Special Services: locally-sourced food used, individually packaged options, environmentally friendly practices Sage Restaurant 425 Sand Creek Drive Chesterton 46304 (219) 926-6500 www.sagerestaurant.net Special Services: Italian American cuisine, hand-made pasta and locally bought produce

Photographers All Eyes on You Photography 1302 Minnich Rd. New Haven 46774 (260) 385-6329 alleyesonyou.biz Services: Portrait and event photography

Rizzo Photography 2627 S. State Street St. Joseph, MI. 49085 (269) 325-1460 SBV Photography 1031 Pratt Street Crown Point 46307 (219) 779-7137 www.sbvphotography.com Services: event photography, portraits, photo restoration

Rentals Aay’s Rental 811 W Edison Mishawaka 46545 (574) 256-1100 www.aaysrental.com Rental Products: chairs, pipe and draping, crowd control, lighting, staging, tents All in One Party Rentals & Sales 5445 Broadway Merrillville 46410 (219) 887-9644 www.allinonepartyrentals.com Rental Products: audio/visual, chairs and tables, tents, serving equipment, fountain Rosemary’s Heritage Flowers 51 W. Walnut Street Crown Point, IN (219) 663-1640 www.muttonrentals.com Crown Party Rentals 620 N Indiana Avenue Crown Point 46307 (219) 663-7779 www.crownpartyrentals.com Rental Products: canopies, tents, chairs, tables, dinnerware, audio visual

Good Food, Good Drink & Good Spirits!

109 W Joliet St, Crown Point, IN 46307 • 219.663.7377 Meetings & Events 2014

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Midwest Rentals, Inc. 3312 Klondike Road West Lafayette 47906 765) 423-5541 2725 US Highway 231 S Lafayette 47909 (765) 423-5543 www.midwestrentalsinc.com Rental Products: a/v equipment, carnival & casino equipment, convention & meeting equipment, tables, chairs, tents, themed party equipment

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Restaurants 3 Floyds Brewing Company 9750 Indiana Parkway Munster 46321 (219) 922-4425 www.3floyds.com/brewpub/ Specialties: Sandwiches, pizza, homemade beer 54 Main Bistro 54 Main Street Hobart 46342 (219) 947-2817 www.bistro54main.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: fresh ingredients picked weekly, new menu every week, craft beers Asparagus Restaurant 7876 Broadway Merrillville 46410 (219) 794-0000 www.asparagusrestaurant.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Thailand, Vietnam and American cuisines Baker Street 4820 N Clinton Street Fort Wayne 46825 (260) 484-3300 www.bakerstreetfortwayne.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Steaks, chops, seafood, gluten free menu available Bistro 501 501 Main Street Lafayette 47901 (765) 423-4501 www.bistro501.com Specialties: steaks, salads, seasonally changing menus

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Café Borgia 10018 Calumet Avenue Munster 46321 (219) 922-8889 www.cafeborgia.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian cuisine Café Navarre 101 N Michigan Street South Bend 46601 (574) 968-8101 www.cafenavarre.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: seafood, French, Italian and Spanish cuisines Carmela’s Restaurant 214 North Niles Avenue South Bend 46617 (574) 280-4824 www.macrisbakery.com/carmelas/ Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian bistro cuisine Catch 22 Bar & Grill 500 E 81st Avenue Merrillville 46410 (219) 793-9635 www.catch22nwi.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Craft beer, burgers, tacos, salads

El Taco Real 935 Hoffman Street Hammond 46327 (219) 932-8333 www.eltacorealrestaurant.com Specialties: Mexican cuisine Freddy’s Steakhouse 6442 Kennedy Avenue Hammond 46327 (219) 844-1500 www.freddyssteakhousehammond.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Steak specialties, ribs, chops, chicken Galveston Steakhouse 10 Commerce Square Michigan City 46360 (219) 879-5555 www.thegalvestonsteakhouse.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Steaks, roadhouse cuisine Gamba Ristorante 455 E 84th Drive Merrillville 46410 (219) 736-5000 www.gambaristorante.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian cuisine

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant 2120 Southlake Mall, Suite 500 Merrillville 46410 (219) 795-9463 www.coopershawkwinery.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: upscale appetizers and entrees, wine

Gino’s Steakhouse 1259 Joliet Street Dyer 46311 (219) 865-3854 600 E Lincoln Highway Merrillville 46410 (219) 769-4466 www.ginossteakhouse.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: steaks, pasta, seafood

Dish Restaurant 3907 N Calumet Avenue Valparaiso 46383 (219) 465-9221 www.dishrestaurant.net Specialties: American cuisine, locally grown produce, regionally procured seafood and meats

Giovanni’s 603 Ridge Road Munster 46321 (219) 836-6220 www.giosmunster.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian cuisine, veal, pasta, seafood

Duneland Beach Inn 3311 Pottawatomie Trail Michigan City 46360 (219) 874-7729 www.dunelandbeachinn.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Seafood, steaks, salads

Houlihan’s 1550 U.S. Route 41 Schererville 46375 (219) 864-0077 www.houlihans.com Specialties: American cuisine, vegetarian and gluten-free options

Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille 1084 Linwood Avenue Valparaiso 46383 (219) 465-1801 www.industrialrevolutioneatery.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: American cuisine, burgers and sandwiches Johnel’s Restaurant 4145 Calumet Avenue Hammond 46320 (219) 931-7000 www.johnels.com Specialties: steak, chicken, seafood, breakfast all day Kelsey’s Steakhouse 2300 US Highway 30 Valparaiso 46347 (219) 465-4022 5630 US Highway 6 Portage 46368 (219) 762-2242 Event Space: Yes Specialties: Steak, seafood, prime rib Lighthouse Restaurant 7501 Constitution Avenue Cedar Lake 46303 (219) 374-9283 www.cedarlakelighthouse.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: steaks, fresh seafood, pastas, homemade soup La Scala Italian Restaurant 312 Main Street Lafayette 47901 (765) 420-8171 www.lascalaitalianrestaurant.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian pastas, seafood Maxim’s Restaurant & Lounge 7205 Broadway Merrillville 46410 (219) 795-9520 Event Space: Yes Specialties: Greek and American specialty dishes McCarthy’s on the Riverwalk 333 NIBCO Parkway Elkhart 46516 (574) 293-2830 www.mccarthysontheriverwalk.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: traditional Irish pub food, American classics

Meetings & Events 2014

McGraw’s Steak Chop & Fish House 2707 South River Road West Lafayette 47906 (765) 743-3932 www.mcgrawssteakhouse.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Steaks, seafood

Parea Restaurant 69 S Franklin Valparaiso 46383 (219) 510-5428 www.parearestaurant.com Specialties: American style cuisine, steaks, seafood

Miller Bakery Café 555 S Lake Street Gary 46403 (219) 427-1446 www.millerbakerycafe.com Specialties: steaks, seafood, pasta

Parisi’s Ristorante 1412 South Bend Avenue South Bend 46617 (574) 232-4244 www.parisisrestaurant.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian cuisine

Mountain Jacks 4211 State Road 26 E Lafayette 47905 (765) 448-1521 www.mountainjackslafayette.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: steaks, seafood, prime rib

The Patio 7706 Broadway Merrillville 46410 (219) 769-7990 www.thepatiorestaurantin.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Steaks, seafood

New Paradigm Brewing Company 600 S Main Elkhart IN 46516 (574) 295-8882 www.newparadigmbrewing.com Specialties: craft beers, burgers, sandwiches

Pestos Italian Restaurant and Catering 3123 Calumet Avenue Valparaiso 46383 (219) 462-0993 www.pestos.net Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian dishes

Rodizio Restaurant at Meyer’s Castle 1370 Joliet Street Dyer 46311 (219) 865-8452 www.meyerscastle.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Argentina style cuisine

Pikk’s Tavern 62 W Lincolnway Valparaiso 46383 (219) 476-7455 www.pikkstavern.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: steaks, gluten free options

Sage Restaurant 425 Sand Creek Drive Chesterton 46304 (219) 926-6500 www.sagerestaurant.net Event Space: N/A Specialties: American Italian cuisine

Prime Steakhouse 109 West Joliet St. Crown Point, IN (219) 663-7377 www.primesteakhousecp.com

Scartozzi’s Trattoria 822 Karwick Road Michigan City 46360 (219) 878-0458 www.scartozzi.com Event Space: N/A Specialties: authentic Italian cuisine

River Rock Restaurant 1001 White Hawk Drive Crown Point 46307 (219) 661-2327 www.whitehawkcountryclub.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Pasta, Seafood, Steak

WE OFFER OFF-SITE

SPECIALIZING IN:

Trade Shows | Business Meetings | Training Seminars

CATERING

Whether you’re planning a corporate luncheon, business meeting, Holiday Party or Retirement Party, let Maxim’s do the cooking. We provide Off-Site Catering which can include delivery & set-up.

Corporate Meetings • Holiday Parties • Birthday Parties • Weddings Graduation Parties • Retirement Parties

For Our Full Catering Menu Visit: www.maximsrestaurant.com Contact Shannon Zaronias @ 219-545-9753

MAXIM’S R E S TAU R A N T & C AT E R I N G

~Family Owned & Operated Since 1998~ 7205 Broadway Merrillville, IN 46410 • 219-795-9520 Meetings & Events 2014

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Spire Farm to Fork Cuisine 299 W Johnson Road La Porte 46350 (219) 575-7272 www.spirefarmtofork.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: all food made from scratch with products sourced only from farms within a 250 mile radius

Water’s Edge Restaurant 12 on the Lake in Washington Park Michigan City 46360 (219) 873-1788 www.watersedgemc.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: fresh seafood, steaks and chops, pasta, pizza White Rhino Bar & Grill 101 East Joliet Street Dyer 46311 (219) 864-9200 www.whiterhinoonline.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: seafood, steaks, pasta, chicken

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Season’s Restaurant 7219 Taft Street Merrillville 46410 (219) 756-4663 www.seasonscatering.net/restaurant.html Specialties: authentic Cajun and southern cuisine

Teibel’s Family Restaurant 1775 US Highway 41 Schererville 46375 (219) 865-2000 www.teibels.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: fried chicken, lake perch Theo’s Steakhouse 9144 Indianapolis Boulevard Highland 46322 (219) 838-8000 www.theoshighland.com Event Space: Yes / up to 110 guests Specialties: steaks, seafood Third Coast Spice Café 761 Indian Boundary Rd 6 Chesterton 46304 (219) 926-5858 www.thirdcoastspice.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Sandwiches, salads, smoothies, breakfast Trattoria Enzo 601 Michigan Avenue La Porte 46350 (219) 326-8000 www.trattoriaenzo.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: Italian cuisine The Vine 103 W Colfax South Bend 46602 (574) 234-9463 214 S Main Street Elkhart 46516 (574) 970-5006 www.thevinesb.com Event Space: Yes Specialties: steaks, seafood, pizza, gourmet salads

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transportation 600 Charter Brokerage skip@600charter.com (312) 860-2005 24hr mobile www.600charter.com Services: charter air services, full service concierge, ground transportation All Around Limousine P.O. Box 10061 Merrillville 46411 (219) 980-3636 www.allaroundlimoservices.com Services: corporate services, airport transportation, special event transportation Ambience Limousine P.O. Box 456 Osceola 46561 (574) 514-2265 www.ambiencelimo.com Services: corporate services, airport transportation, wine tours, party buses Ann Marie Limousine 2994 Paul Drive Elkhart 46514 (574) 293-5466 www.southbendlimousine.com Services: airport pickups and drop-offs, special event transportation, corporate events Boss Limousine Service 1171 Erie Court Crown Point 46307 (219) 661-9567 www.bosslimocp.com Services: business transportation, airport transportation

Cardinal Buses 202 E Winslow Street Middlebury 46540 (574) 825-9405 2525 East Day Road Mishawaka 46545 (574) 252-0160 www.cardinalbuses.com Services: charter buses Cedar Mill Limousine 7958 Wicker Avenue St. John 46373 (219) 730-3850 www.cedarlimo.com Services: Special event transportation, corporate transportation, wine tours, airport transfers Elkhart Municipal Airport 1211 County Road 6 West Elkhart 46516 (574) 264-5217 www.elkhartindiana.org Services: aircraft storage, management, sales and rentals, aircraft charter service Epic Limo, Inc. 4601 Murvihill Road Valparaiso 46383 (219) 462-5466 www.epiclimo.com Services: Airport pickups and drop-offs, corporate events, wine and beer tours Excursion Trailways 4405 W Washington Center Road Suite A, Fort Wayne 46818 (260) 485-6167 www.trailways.com Services: bus rentals and services First Student Charter Bus Rental 325 W Route 550 South Boone Grove 46302 (866) 514-8747 www.firstcharterbus.com Services: Charter buses, school buses, event transportation, shuttle service Fort Wayne International Airport 3801 W Ferguson Road Suite 209 Fort Wayne 46809 (260) 747-4146 www.fwairport.com Services: international flights, curbside services, aircraft maintenance services, other general aviation services

Gary Chicago International Airport 6001 Airport Road Gary 46406 (219) 949-0722 www.garychicagoairport.com Services: charter air service, cargo air service Imperial Travel 2150 Sagamore Parkway N Lafayette 47904 (765) 447-9321 www.imperial-travel.com Services: charter buses, limousine services, special tours Lafayette Limo 2525 Klondike Road West Lafayette 47906 (765) 497-3828 www.lafayettelimo.com Services: Airport shuttles, limo services, charter buses, special event transportation Limo Emporium 1674 ½ E North Street Crown Point 46307 (800) 306-9610 www.limoemporium.com Services: business transportation, airport transportation, party buses Michigan City Municipal Airport – Phillips Field 1300 North Highway 212 Michigan City 46360 (219) 872-0121 www.mgcairport.com Services: Parking, ramp and tie down services, fueling, passenger terminal Royal Excursion 12807 W McKinley Highway Mishawaka 46545 (574) 257-8540 www.royalexcursion.com Services: private and group charter bus services, airport shuttle service South Bend Airport 4477 Progress Drive South Bend 46628 (574) 233-2185 www.flysbn.com Services: commercial flights, general aviation, aircraft fueling, storage and charter services through Atlantic Aviation Tri State Coach Lines / United Limo 2101 West 37th Avenue Gary 46408 Services: bus service to Chicago airports Meetings & Events 2014

Meetings & Events 2014

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