2022 F&D Spring by Facilities Media Group

WE’RE BRINGING PEOPLE BACK TOGETHER. As we seek the best opportunities to meet in person again, no city is more committed to offering the kinds of experiences that will help you exceed expectations. When you pair this spectacular tourist destination with state-of-the-art meeting venues and easy access to every amenity you could hope for, you’re set up to make live meetings and conventions both as effective and exciting as this moment demands. From the minute you arrive, Las Vegas gives you, and your clients, the motivation to move your business forward. There’s no reason to keep them waiting. And every reason to meet again.

PLAN NOW AT VEGASMEANSBUSINESS.COM

WELCOME BACK! IT’S TIME TO GET BACK TO DOING WHAT WE DO BEST

MAKING YOUR VISION OUR MISSION Located in the heart of downtown Austin, Texas Five contiguous exhibit halls with 247,052 square feet of column-free space Surrounded by 12,000+ hotel rooms within walking distance

Our facility is proud to be recognized for cleaning and disinfecting to a higher standard to keep our space clean and safe for occupancy.

BACK TO 100% CAPACITY The Austin Convention Center is officially back to 100 percent capacity with no social distancing requirements, giving you complete freedom in how you set up your event.

EDITOR’S NOTE A BRIGHTER LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL

his year, we look forward to recognizing our Prime Site and Top Destination award winners with special pride. These convention centers and cities have struggled to reestablish their meetings business over the last two years, and are now well on their way to bringing face-to-face meetings back to their former glory. In some cases, that effort has required improving capabilities to host hybrid meetings, which have gained favor among planners (see “Take Hybrid to the Next Level,” page 27). But in general, the process has been about due diligence in COVID-19 safety measures, which inspires confidence in groups considering an in-person gathering. With the importance of those measures in mind, this year we have debuted a new designation based on reader nominations, F&D Safe Sites. The 2022 designees are announced in this issue (page 9). Yet another means of encouraging groups to meet face-to-face is to entice them with new experiences at the destination. Las Vegas — known for pushing the experiential envelope — has done a remarkable job of bringing new and enhanced venues online in 2020 and 2021, from the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, CAESARS FORUM and The Expo at World Market Center, to exciting new resorts such as Resorts World, Circa and Virgin Hotels. Learn about all the latest developments in this issue’s cover story (page 10). And don’t forget to vote for the convention centers and CVBs that delivered outstanding service to you and your group last year (ballot on page 29). The 2022 Prime Site and Top Destination awardees will be recognized in the F&D SuperBook this summer. The visibility gained by the winning venues and cities can only help your industry partners continue to recover and make your future in-person meetings the best they can be. We already know there is a light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the industry’s rebound from the pandemic. The great work of those on the supplier side — including all the talented, devoted staff at convention centers and CVBs — is making that light steadily brighter.

Spring 2022

Volume 29 No. 1

Editorial Director George Seli Contributing Editors Anthony Bilden Laura Janelle Downey Debi Lander Deborah Shapiro Creative Direction & Design AR Design Business Operations David Mermelstein © Copyright 2022 by Bedrock Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in by-lined articles and advertising copy are not necessarily those of the publisher. Advertisers are responsible for all costs, damages and claims regarding advertising insertions. Facilities & Destinations is published four times a year by Bedrock Communications, Inc., PO Box 1807, New York, NY 10150-1807. Telephone: (212) 532-4150. Fax: (212) 213-6382. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Facilities, PO Box 1807, New York, NY 10150-1807. Printed in U.S.A. Cover ad space is available by contacting a Facilities advertising account executive at (212) 532-4150.

– George Seli Editorial Director, Facilities Media Group gseli@facilitiesonline.com

CONTENTS DEPARTMENTS In Brief........................................................................................................................................................................................4 PERSPECTIVES Take Hybrid to the Next Level, by Devin Cleary............................................................................................27 AV Your Way, by Steve Wildemann...................................................................................................................... 28

FEATURES 2022 F&D Safe Sites and Future-Driven Leaders Designees....................................................................9 Planner Roundtable..........................................................................................................................................................14 DESTINATIONS Las Vegas................................................................................................................................................................................10 St. Augustine......................................................................................................................................................................... 17 VENUE REVIEW Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa.................................................................................................................. 20 SITE & CITY PROFILES.........................................................................................................................................21-26 ADVERTISER INDEX.....................................................................................................................................................31

ON THE COVER Las Vegas’ convention and tradeshow industry has posted impressive numbers in the first quarter of this year. That performance bodes well for the return of face-to-face meeting to pre-pandemic levels in one of the country’s leading meeting destinations. Our cover story highlights the various drivers for Las Vegas’ recent success, with insights from both the LVCVA and the client side. FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

THINKING

Meaningful Meetings COME TOGETHER IN ATLANTIC CITY

Atlantic City is focused on the future as we continue to offer a variety of corporate social responsibility programs to diversify ourselves and lead the way in regenerative tourism. From offering the necessary and environmentally-responsible convention space, to combining it with sustainable action, a lucrative incentive program, and continuing education, Atlantic City provides an experience with you and the future in mind. We look forward to working with your group to establish meaningful meetings and conventions before, during and after your event. Experiences await here.

Contact us to plan your next meeting in Atlantic City! Incentive packages are available for new group business. Call 1-844-855-6338 or visit meetac.com today!

IN BRIEF INDUSTRY PULSE

CHICAGO, IL — Lynn Osmond has been appointed CEO of Choose Chicago, effective May 9. Osmond, the first woman to helm the city’s tourism

Lynn Osmond agency, was most recently the President & CEO at the Chicago Architecture Center. “Lynn Osmond’s thorough experience leading the Chicago Architecture Center will be a great asset to Choose Chicago — and we’re proud she is the first woman to take on the job,” said Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “As the city continues to see a rise in tourism, Osmond’s intimate knowledge of this city will ensure that we will continue to safely encourage and delight those who come to Chicago for work or play.” JACKSONVILLE, FL — Visit Jacksonville recently welcomed Laura Gonzalez, Lauren Hickox, Paloma Martin and Kelly Sanderson, CMP, to the sales, marketing and destination experience

teams. Gonzalez, National Account Manager, was previously Director of Sales and Marketing at Tru by Hilton in Jacksonville. Hickox, Assistant Destination Experience Manager, was most recently an Events and Marketing Intern at the American Heart Association in Jacksonville. Martin, Destination Experience Manager, comes to the CVB from the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville-Riverfront, where she held the role of Event Manager. Sanderson, Convention Sales Marketing Manager, was previously the Destination Service Director for PRI Productions.

Meg Little Little joins ASM Global from Raycom Sports, where she spearheaded campaigns in partnership with global brands like Hyundai, Allstate, State Farm and Old Navy. LOUISVILLE, KY — Louisville welcomes Meeting Professional International’s (MPI) World Education Congress (WEC), June 10-12, 2025. It

will be Louisville’s first time as a host city for this major event, expected to draw 2,500 meeting planners and hospitality professionals to the Kentucky International Convention Center and other venues throughout the city. “We’re thrilled to bring WEC to Louisville for the first time,” says Annette Gregg, CMM, MBA, Senior Vice President of Experience for MPI. “From the Bourbon Trail to the iconic Churchill Downs, the destination has an exciting appeal for our participants. The downtown entertainment district is a perfect size for our conference and will create a great buzz for our offsite events.” Hosting WEC will result in an estimated immediate economic impact of over $2 million for the city.

LOS ANGELES, CA — Carl A. Thomas and Meg Little have joined

2022 WEB & AWARDS www.facilitiesonline.com

PRIME SITE AWARDS In our 29th Year

Carl A. Thomas ASM Global as Senior Vice President, Sales and Platform Development, and Vice President, Marketing Solutions, respectively. Thomas’s background includes senior positions with Universal Studios, Tickets.com and Hookit.

The #1 Source

For Professional Planners & Bookers of Conventions, Meetings, Entertainment & Special Events.

Highly anticipated recognition of special achievement. These awards are selected byour meeting and convention planner readers.

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

Y O U R I S

F U T U R E

S A F E

W I T H

U S

Our innovative safety solutions are designed for the future and GBAC Star ™ -certified, giving you the peace of mind to plan your next event with confidence. DESIGNED FOR THE FUTURE

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IN BRIEF CONVENTION CENTER WATCH

BOISE, ID — Boise Centre has completed the annual reaccreditation process for the GBAC STAR Facility Accreditation Program. Under the guidance of GBAC, Idaho’s largest convention center continues to adhere to the most stringent protocols for cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention in its facility. To renew the accreditation, Boise Centre was required to demonstrate compliance with program’s 20 core elements, which range from standard operating procedures, and risk assessment to personal protective equipment, and emergency preparedness and response measures. Boise Centre was the first convention center and business in Idaho to achieve the esteemed accreditation.

Boise Centre

“Renewing our GBAC STAR facility accreditation sets us apart, and in turn helps our customers reassure their guests their event meets the highest standards of cleanliness and safety,” comments Boise Centre Executive Director Pat Rice. DETROIT, MI — Freeman has been appointed the exclusive electric service provider for ASM Globalmanaged Huntington Place. “Freeman is one of the most successful and well established event service companies in the business that offers an exclusive branch dedicated to providing electrical services to many of the largest convention centers in the country,” said Karen Totaro, General Manager of Huntington Place. “This new contract is one

more step in our efforts to be bold and provide the highest level of customer service in the industry. Our reputation is enhanced by who we choose to partner with and we are so pleased to partner with Freeman.” FreemanOnline, the proprietary online ordering portal, or “Customer Support Center,” is

900-space onsite parking garage. The project is scheduled for completion in the summer of 2023. SEATTLE, WA — The Summit at the Washington State Convention Center is scheduled to open in July 2022. The building will feature approximately 255,000 sq. ft. of exhibition

Huntington Place replacing the Conti Electric order links on the Online Ordering page in the Huntington Place website. Exhibitors will be able to order electrical services, labor and equipment, and access order history from Freeman through any webenabled device 24/7. SAVANNAH, GA — The Savannah Convention Center is in the midst of a $271 million expansion that will double the exhibit hall space to 200,000 sq. ft. and add a 58-ft.-wide glass hangar door, a 40,000-sq.-ft. ballroom and 15 additional meeting rooms. In addition, there will be more outdoor space, a new entry with an all-glass facade and a new

space and 120,000 sq. ft. of meeting space. Wide-open spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows and skylights will bring daylight into the event spaces. In addition, “the 14,000-sq.-ft. open-air Garden Terrace will be a versatile option for meeting planners,” says Jeff Blosser, President and CEO of the WSCC. “Meeting attendees will be wowed by the 58,000-sq.-ft. ballroom with its expansive view of the Capitol Hill neighborhood, and the glass-enclosed Hillclimb along Pine Street has west-facing views of Pike Place Market and the Puget Sound. Simply put, there’s a lot to like about this venue.”

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

See why Tucson’s one-of-a-kind culture creates an experience that extends beyond the ballroom. Book now through 2025 and earn up to $15,000 OFF your Master Account.

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IN BRIEF HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

bar, and wellness center. The Conrad Nashville also features over 11,000 sq. ft. of multipurpose function space.

BETHESDA, MD — Marriott International has debuted its 8,000th property, the Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ. The 245-room property is located near Marriott International’s soon-to-open new global headquarters in Bethesda. Constructed to be LEED Gold certified, the hotel features five expansive rooftop green spaces and nearly 8,000 sq. ft. of stateof-the-art pre-function and event space. LAS VEGAS, NV — Circa Resort & Casino will debut 35,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting and convention space this September. The facilities also will feature state-ofthe-art AV capabilities and special environmental measures such as LED lighting and adaptive, intelligent controlled HVAC systems. Galaxy will be the largest space, with four adjoining meeting rooms spanning 14,456 sq. ft. of space and a 1,677-sq.-ft. outdoor terrace overlooking the city. NASHVILLE, TN — Opening this spring, the 234-room Conrad Nashville is located in the new Broadwest development, steps away from the city’s best restaurants, shopping, entertainment, music, and sports venues. Property highlights include a mainstay restaurant led by a celebrity chef, stylish lobby bar, rooftop pool terrace and

SANTA CLARA, CA — The new 220-suite Hyatt Centric Santa Clara Silicon Valley is located near tech giant campuses, Levi Stadium, Santa Clara University, Historic Mission Santa Clara De Asis and the Mercado Santa Clara. The property includes a pool terrace with a 3,500-sq.-ft. foot hospitality deck complete with an outdoor living area and a semi-private deck available for groups. SCOTTSDALE, AZ — The 265-room Caesars Republic Scottsdale luxury hotel is on schedule to open in Q1 2024. Room reservations will be open in Q2 2023. The hotel will include a 7,000-sq.-ft., columnfree ballroom with sliding glass doors opening onto a 7,000-sq.-ft. outdoor lawn for banquets. Other highlights include two Italian restaurants by awardwinning celebrity chef Giada De Laurentis, and an elevated pool lounge and restaurant on the seventh floor.

Circa Resort & Casino

Caesars Republic Scottsdale FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

2022 F&D SAFE SITES Facilities & Destinations introduces a new designation for cities and convention centers: F&D SAFE SITES. Voted on by readers, these destinations and venues are going the extra mile to ensure that visiting groups are as protected as possible from COVID-19 contagion. Criteria for cities includes: • Citywide COVID safety programs • CVB safe meeting support services • Safety practices in hotels, meeting venues and transportation hubs

Congratulations to this year’s designees! CITIES Atlantic City, NJ Birmingham, AL Boston, MA Columbus, OH Hampton, VA Las Vegas, NV Louisville, KY Memphis, TN Milwaukee, WI New Orleans, LA Newport, RI Oklahoma City, OK Pasadena, CA Philadelphia, PA Savannah, GA St. Louis, MO Washington, DC

CONVENTION CENTERS Albany Capital Center Atlantic City Convention Center Austin Convention Center Boise Centre Branson Convention Center CAESARS FORUM Connecticut Convention Center Cox Business Convention Center David L. Lawrence Convention Center Duke Energy Convention Center Grand Wayne Convention Center Greater Columbus Convention Center Hawaii Convention Center Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland Huntington Place

Criteria for convention centers includes: • GBAC STAR or related certifications • Staff’s sanitation practices • Disinfection technology • COVID safety signage • COVID testing procedures • Accommodations for social distancing

Javits Center Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center Lancaster County Convention Center Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center Los Angeles Convention Center Mandalay Bay Convention Center Minneapolis Convention Center Monona Terrace Monterey Conference Center Oregon Convention Center Pennsylvania Convention Center Phoenix Convention Center Puerto Rico Convention Center Spokane Convention Center Washington State Convention Center

2022 F&D FUTURE-DRIVEN LEADERS: UP-AND-COMING PROFESSIONALS Facilities & Destinations introduces Up-and-Coming Professionals, a new designation recognizing the rising stars on the supplier side of the meetings industry, ranging from event coordinators to sales managers to chefs. These individuals are integral to the various stages of any meeting, from booking to execution. Voting criteria include the individual’s industry achievements, career trajectory, and clients’ and colleagues’ great experiences working with the individual.

Congratulations to this year’s designees! Hunter Beals, Sales Manager Savannah Convention Center

Krista Momsen, Senior Event Services Manager Wisconsin Center

Trenton Becker, CMP, Director of Event Services Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas

Adrienne Nudo, Senior Director, Citywide Sales Meet Hawaii

Nathan Dickie, Senior Setup Supervisor Oregon Convention Center

Nicholas Rigas, Sales Manager Discover Philadelphia

William Green, Event Manager Miami Beach Convention Center

Brandi Scott, Director, Convention Sales Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau

Andrew Knuth, Event Experience Manager Visit Milwaukee

Luciano Sperduto, Director of Food & Beverage Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel

Meredith Howie, Event Coordinator Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center

Layla Tulloch, Event Manager Pasadena Convention Center

Leslie Lotten, Assistant Director of Event Services New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

Chad Wilke, Event Services Director Indiana Convention Center

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

DESTINATION

LAS VEGAS Leading the charge for face-to-face meetings into 2022

By George Seli

ne of the country’s top meeting destinations is off to a great start this year, continuing a major upswing from last year. Las Vegas welcomed 2.2 million convention delegates in 2021, a significant increase over 2020. But this encouraging statistic should come as no surprise. As the meetings industry rebounds from the pandemic, many groups are naturally looking to revisit a destination that arguably delivers the best combination of business value and entertainment. “People are fatigued with virtual events and are ready to get back to meeting face to face. Companies and associations are feeling the same way. We are seeing incredible momentum in terms of overall recovery, and that includes the meetings industry,” affirms Laurae Clifford, Senior Director of Destination Group Sales, Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority. “Although the pandemic has changed the way people work and do business, there is a clear economic advantage of getting people back together again, and there is no better place to do that than Vegas.” One key change to the Laurae Clifford meetings landscape is the

Las Vegas tradeshows are gaining momentum this spring increased use of hybrid events. From a tech standpoint, many of Las Vegas’ event venues are well equipped to facilitate that format as part of their advanced network and audiovisual capabilities. Examples range from the 65,000-seat Allegiant Stadium, which offers in-house streaming, to the 7,000-sq.-ft. Stella Studio at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Planners can work with The Venetian’s in-house AV provider Encore to produce their hybrid events at Stella Studio. Vizient, Inc.’s Connections Summit demonstrated that FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

space, accommodations at every price point, ease of travel to the destination, and extensive ‘beyond the meeting’ options from entertainment to world-class dining,” says Clifford.

A TROVE OF TRADESHOW VENUES

Resorts World Las Vegas

Las Vegas’ convention and tradeshow facilities display both excellence and variety, with no shortage of square footage. The 4.6 million-sq.-ft. Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) is the centerpiece of the destination’s meetings industry, offering a remarkable 2.5 million sq. ft. of exhibit space and 225 meeting rooms spanning more than 390,000 sq. ft. The facility hosted 19 events in the first quarter of this year, with highlights including CES, PCMA Convening Leaders, AHR Expo and Food & Beverage Industry Week. In 2021, the LVCC hosted 52 events, welcoming an estimated 730,000 attendees. Opened last year, the LVCC West Hall expansion has provided an additional 1.4 million sq. ft., including 600,000 sq. ft. of technologically advanced exhibit space, 150,000 sq. ft. of meeting room space (up to 80 breakout rooms), and a 14,000-sq.-ft. outdoor terrace. A major highlight is the Lobby Spectacular screen, the largest digital experience in the U.S. convention and exhibits industry. Showing that Las Vegas puts safety first in this new age, the Las Vegas Convention Center was the first Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) STAR-accredited facility in Nevada.

Wynn Las Vegas is also adept at hosting hybrid meetings. More than 3,400 representatives from the healthcare performance company registered for the November 2021 hybrid event, and the upcoming Connections Summit, Sept. 19-22, 2022, is also expected to see robust participation. “For us, this first quarter has been back to in-person meetings primarily,” says Kim Sullivan, AVP, Event Logistics & Operations, with Vizient, Inc. “I think that the hybrid format will be woven through some of our events in 2022, especially for our large annual conference. We received great feedback on the hybrid model last year, and it allows us to reach an even larger audience while still providing the in-person experience that so many want. We have had many safe in-person meetings this quarter, and our attendees love being back together in person again. It’s something you can’t replicate online.” (See the sidebar on page 12 for more details on the group’s Las Vegas experience.) For in-person attendees, the compelling reasons for returning to Las Vegas are clear, from top-tier lodging choices to legendary entertainment. “Some factors driving that rebound are the same elements that have always made Vegas an appealing destination for planners and attendees alike, including the sheer Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall entrance scope and variety of meeting FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

PLANNER PERSPECTIVE Kim Sullivan

AVP, Event Logistics & Operations, Vizient, Inc. Healthcare performance company Vizient, Inc. brought its Connections Summit to Wynn Las Vegas in November 2021. The next installment is scheduled for Sept. 19-22, 2022. The meeting brings together Vizient’s members and Vizient’s contracted suppliers to share insights, strategies and best practices around supply chain, clinical, quality and safety performance improvement. Q. What feedback have you received from attendees that have met in Las Vegas? A. We’ve had our annual Summit in Las Vegas for several years. We get great feedback from attendees. It’s close to the airport and offers so much in the way of restaurants, entertainment and golf for attendees that have extra time or bring their families. We love it from a planning standpoint because we can hold the meeting all under one roof and keep our attendees together instead of using multiple hotels. The time of the year that we go, it’s great to be able to use outdoor space and give our attendees a different experience. Looking to the future, the LVCVA Board of Directors has approved $435 million in funding to renovate the North, Central and South halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. The two-year project is scheduled to begin in 2024. Also GBAC STAR-accredited is the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. The nation’s fifth-largest convention center houses 2.1 million gross sq. ft. of function space. Another formidable offering from MGM Resorts is the MGM Grand Conference Center, which added 250,000 sq. ft. of function space in December 2018. For groups seeking a downtown expo location, a new option is The Expo at World Market Center Las Vegas, opened in 2020. The venue offers approximately 200,000 gross sq. ft. of exhibit space accommodating up to 1,000 booths, flexible layouts, and four executive meeting rooms totaling nearly 10,000 sq. ft. Indeed, 2020 was a watershed year in the growth of the destination’s tradeshow infrastructure with the debut of another major facility, CAESARS FORUM. The 550,000-sq.-ft. conference center houses 300,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space and the two largest pillarless ballrooms in the world. Delegates have direct access to more than 8,500 Caesars hotel rooms at Harrah’s Las Vegas, the LINQ Hotel + Experience and Flamingo Las Vegas.

Q. What kind of promotional assistance do you receive from the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority? A. We’ve used marketing material that we can share with attendees to use as promotional tools over the years. The LVCVA also has a great list of vendors that we’ve used, everything from décor companies and DMC partners to massage therapy vendors for the tradeshow floor. They’ve done all the research for you, so take advantage of the expertise they offer! Q. How can Las Vegas’ renowned entertainment industry benefit meetings in terms of attendee draw, onsite experience, providing creative resources for planners, etc.? A. I think Las Vegas is definitely a draw for attendees. From an attendee perspective, there is no shortage of entertainment options in Las Vegas for groups to take advantage of, from concerts, shows, sporting events, etc. It’s a destination. We’ve also used entertainment venues for events to offer a unique experience for the attendee. We used the “O” Cirque du Soleil theater at Bellagio for a general session one year, and it was such a cool experience.

Las Vegas Convention Center Loop FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

Vegas is a transportation system that allows attendees to efficiently commute between the airport, convention facilities, hotels and entertainment sites. Here, they’ll find traditional options such as shuttles, taxis and rideshares, alongside two more hightech modes of getting around. An automated monorail (the country’s first) offers seven stops along the Strip. In addition, the Las Vegas Convention Center Loop (opened in April 2021) truly sets Las Vegas apart when it comes to transportation logistics. Consisting of 1.7 miles of tunnel, the LVCC Loop whisks passengers between Wynn Las Vegas opened new meeting space in 2020 the LVCC West Hall and the rest of the campus in about two minutes. The DYNAMIC NEW RESORTS system has already demonstrated its efficiency during major shows such as the Mecum Motorcycle Auction, Hotel development is among the many drivers behind SEMA 2021 and CES 2022. the destination’s recent successes in the meetings sector. Harry Reid International Airport, located just two New, high-profile resorts certainly get the attention of miles from Las Vegas Boulevard and 3.5 miles from planners and convention delegates. “One key factor I the LVCC, is seeing more international delegates arrive find particularly promising is the addition of a significant as that sector of the destination’s meetings business amount of hotel rooms and meeting space inventory regains traction. “While international group travel over the last couple of years. We have welcomed new makes up a smaller portion of visitors compared to properties to the destination including Circa Resort & domestic, it represents a strong and important sector to Casino in downtown Las Vegas and Resorts World Las the destination,” says Clifford. “And as travel restrictions Vegas, located at the north end of the Strip with several are lifted, we anticipate seeing an uptick from Canada other projects on the horizon,” Clifford says. “Las Vegas has consistently boasted some of the highest occupancy and Mexico first, followed by Europe and beyond.” She levels in the country, so being able to offer extra inventory adds that “One of the biggest hindrances over the last on any given night will help to accommodate our growing couple of years has been the pause in flight services number of customers.” In addition to Circa and Resorts directly into Las Vegas, and we are happy to say that as World, Virgin Hotels Las Vegas is another trendsetting of now, we have almost fully recovered with direct flights newcomer that brings 1,502 guestrooms and 101,851 total resuming from Canada, Mexico, Germany, Switzerland sq. ft. of function space. Venues like Stadium Swim at Circa and Panama.” and 24 Oxford at Virgin Hotels demonstrate the variety in recreational choices at these new resorts. ATTRACTING MORE NEW GROUPS “We are definitely seeing a lot of interest in sourcing With new convention facilities, hotels and offsite venues, these new facilities and spaces,” Clifford adds. “Planners Las Vegas is ensuring that more and more planners find have come to expect something new and exciting from Las exactly the kind of meeting experience they seek for their Vegas, so being able to add properties like Resorts World to guests. “Las Vegas is an incredibly diverse destination the roster has allowed us to meet that expectation. Hotels’ with something for everyone,” says Clifford. “The wide meeting space expansions, such as Wynn Las Vegas, speak variety of experiences leads to a unique ability to to our customers’ growth demand, and how the destination continually attract new and exciting groups.” is delivering on our promises of service, reinvention and The destination is also a big player in the broader inclusion.” Wynn debuted a two-story, 430,000-sq.-ft. meeting events industry, and that can only bolster its visibility facility in 2020. Also that year, the Downtown Grand Hotel among potential group clients. Clifford points to “the city’s & Casino introduced its 495-room Gallery Tower, bringing evolution into the ‘Greatest Arena on Earth’ and being the hotel’s total guestroom inventory to 1,124. able to secure several marquee sporting events, from the Among the most recent hotel reopenings is the Palms 2022 NFL Draft to the just announced Formula 1 race in Resort & Casino. The fully renovated property held its grand November 2023 and the Super Bowl in 2024. Having the ability to host such iconic events will open the destination reopening on April 27, 2022, after a two-year closure due to to brand-new audiences and will bring in different people the pandemic. from all over the world.” Las Vegas is ready to offer those FIRST-TIER TRANSPORTATION visitors, including business travelers and meeting attendees, One feature that distinguishes a first-tier city like Las an ROI that is unsurpassed among U.S. destinations. FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

PLANNER ROUNDTABLE

ON THE AGENDA: CREATING A SUCCESSFUL VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Association meeting specialists discuss best practices

Elizabeth B. Armstrong, MAM, CAE, President, Association & Society Management International Molly Marsh, Director of Education and Engagement Design, AMR Management Services Alexa Newman, Event Director, SmithBucklin

By George Seli

olunteers can be a major resource for volunteer programs for several of its clients to make the most convention operations, filling multiple of scarce association resources and to deliver a range of enlogistical roles. But for a volunteer program gagement options for members. to be maximally popular among members, it will need to create a convenient, enjoyable MARSH: I’ve seen a lot of [associations] trying to develop a experience for participants. That means skillset in volunteers to help them support peer-to-peer learnoffering a variety of opportunities that cater to members’ skills ing, because you can’t pay for really high-quality facilitators for every interactive session that you want to do. But if you and interests, flexible schedules whenever possible, clearly want to make your education really valuable, you do have defined roles and onsite guidance, and opportunities for to have that really good feedback, among many discussion and activityother best practices. A well conceived and executed based approach to program paves the way things, so [it’s important] olunteer staff offer for volunteers to attain to broaden the pool of their most common goals: volunteers who have at unique perspectives from helping their association least some ability to serve having ‘inside insight’ and networking in the in that capacity. When supporting the event, and process. The following you get to know your discussion contains as association customers.” members well and you’re insights from meeting working with volunteers —Elizabeth B. Armstrong management experts on on a regular basis, I think designing a state-of-theyou do get a sense of who art volunteer program. might be able to pull off that kind of engagement. So you work on building that competence in people who you think might have it, but who don’t TRENDS IN VOLUTEER ROLES ARMSTRONG: We have seen divergent trends related to the necessarily have a lot of experience. use of volunteers for association operations. Today’s association members tend to be less involved in administrative UNDERSTANDING VOLUNTEER MOTIVATIONS activities, investing their limited volunteer time on the most NEWMAN: The most common reason for volunteering is meaningful experiences and focusing on industry issues that conferences are a way to create new connections and and enrichment. That being said, Association and Society increased networking opportunities within one’s field. Management International (ASMI) shepherds conference This camaraderie can lead to lifelong bonds and future

“V

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

connections. Many individuals want to get more involved from a content perspective, sharing their expertise in the field. They might deliver an educational session or sit on a committee that vets the content to ensure their peers are receiving the most up-to-date education and trends in their space.

SCHEDULING AND ASSIGNMENTS

NEWMAN: Scheduling planning meetings with volunteers can be tricky at times. You need to be cognizant of their day jobs and balance schedules while keeping the association’s event on track. I find that using a tool like Doodle to collaborate on people’s schedules in advance helps to ensure the most participation possible. And if something comes up in their schedule that prevents attendance at a meeting or on a call, request that your volunteers give as much notice as possible so that the meeting can be rescheduled.

MARSH: In my experience working with our members, being called upon to do this is kind of an honor. It’s recognized that you’re bringing something of value to the association, and so a lot of them tend to jump on that and get excited. I think ARMSTRONG: Offer as much flexibility as possible, including those that are looking for leadership opportunities in the creative opportunities such as pre-meeting jobs including organization kind of crave those opportunities to engage generating certificates, mailing badges and stuffing registrawith a wider range of members and be a face that people tion packets. Use of an recognize. That way, when online volunteer manageit comes time for board ment program allows elections, for example, our Conference Staff any times when they’ve got a little bit Manager, Chelsea Firth, more familiarity [among volunteers don’t do things to define a huge range the members]. They become effectively, it’s probably of volunteer options, vet a resource for other qualifications and make because you didn’t give members to advance their assignments, commuown involvement. And I them enough information, nicate, check in and out also think the members as opposed to a deficiency in personnel, calculate hours have this sense of ‘This worked (typical shift the person.” —Molly Marsh is our association, we all duration for onsite roles is contribute to make the two hours at a time) and experience what we adjust registration records want it to be,’ and so this accordingly. Platforms such as Sign-up Genius and Volunis their small way to help out and contribute to the overall teerLocal are available to association meeting planners. health of the association.

“M

NEWMAN: Student volunteers are there for networking and finding future job opportunities — and education, of course. Experiencing conferences firsthand is a great way to help narrow one’s career focus, especially if there are specialties within their particular field. In general, volunteering is an excellent resume builder to demonstrate volunteer work experience and commitment to a profession.

ENSURING A REWARDING EXPERIENCE

PROMOTING OPPORTUNITIES

MARSH: One mistake is just not having a lot of role clarity. What are they actually being asked to do, and what is a realistic expectation of how much time that’s going to take? Many times when volunteers don’t do things effectively, it’s probably because you didn’t give them enough information, as opposed to a deficiency in the person.

NEWMAN: Social media and email campaigns are useful for promoting volunteer opportunities, but there is nothing like recruiting people in person at the conference. Identifying key stakeholders in the community (existing board members and star volunteers) to talk about their experiences and the benefits of volunteering is the best way to spread the word. Their stories are the most powerful vehicles for driving volunteer recruitment. ARMSTRONG: We use typical promotional tools including solicitations via email blasts, social media channels and web posts. MARSH: Many of our clients use Higher Logic [online community management software] to post the volunteer opportunities, where people are going regularly for information about the association. FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

NEWMAN: Taking care of your volunteers is an important part of the process, as you want to ensure they feel rewarded for their time, energy and shared expertise. Having clear roles and responsibilities, in addition to predetermined planning meeting times, frequency, etc., ensure a well-oiled machine and the satisfaction of your volunteers.

ARMSTRONG: The biggest mistakes are not clearly defining roles and responsibilities, not adequately communicating and not entrusting volunteers. ASMI provides frequent preconference and onsite communications, detailed written instructions and job descriptions, preparatory webinars and onsite briefings. MARSH: Another mistake is assuming that having volunteers means you don’t have to dedicate any staff time to that [task]. Investing a little bit of time means that you can be

much more successful across the board. You have to take the time to walk them through their expectations and [ensure] that they’re set and ready to go, and account for that in your overall planning process.

“Identifying key stakeholders

in the community (existing board members and star volunteers) to talk about their experiences and the benefits of volunteering is the best way to spread the word.”

ARMSTRONG: The more engagement of longtime volunteers in the training (with permanent staff oversight), the more enriching opportunities can be provided to a wide range of association members. NEWMAN: This should go without saying, but make sure you thank your volunteers both publicly and privately for their hard work. This can be done in a variety of ways: the onsite guide, email, signage and slides with pictures during the event, calling them up on stage, etc. If the association can afford it, host a reception in honor of your volunteers or find other small ways to acknowledge their contributions (e.g., discounted registrations, hotel room amenities, thank-you gifts, etc.). MARSH: [As a thank-you gift] we try to offset some kind of cost — a discounted registration, a free meal. We have become huge fans of Starbucks gift cards: Everybody at some point wants a cup of coffee or tea. ARMSTRONG: ASMI clients send their conference volunteers a thank-you letter and participation certificate to recognize their contributions to the success of the event, in ad-

VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT TAKE-AWAYS

ASMI Conference Staff Manager Chelsea Firth, QAS, offers the following recommendations:

1 I nvest in a volunteer management software program. It will up your game.

2 D o not under-utilize the volunteer

members. Most of them are very competent and want to do more than just sit and count tickets.

3 B e flexible to allow onsite staff to have a good experience, and trust them.

4 E xtend the volunteer experience beyond the

work shift: Help them find mentors, answer questions about specific conference sessions, make connections within the association and the industry.

dition to the reduced registration fees.

WHEN UTILIZING EMPLOYEES IS PREFERABLE

NEWMAN: I have found that some support functions (registration, for —Alexa Newman example) require more extensive training and are best handled by paid professionals who are experienced with the technology or process. It is more effective to assign volunteers to specific tasks with a set window of time such as stuffing conference bags, passing out giveaways or working in the association booth. Then, volunteers are able to enjoy the conference for the rest of the duration. MARSH: I think anything related to external communication, beyond “welcome to registration,” anything talking about the identity of the association [should not be a volunteer duty]. I also really hesitate to have volunteers handling money. There is no financial way to hold that person accountable, so I think you open yourself up to a lot of risk.

GETTING THE VOLUNTEER PERSPECTIVE

ARMSTRONG: Learn from every experience! We conduct a 360-degree evaluation and produce after-action reports for each event. ASMI’s headquarters staff note improvements to be made after each meeting, even after 30 years of convention production. Volunteer staff offer unique perspectives from having “inside insight” supporting the event, and as association customers. NEWMAN: It is key to request volunteers’ feedback following the event. This will ensure they know their voices are being heard, and you are involving them in the process to deliver the most successful event for everyone. Volunteers know the members better than anyone, and also tend to have a pulse on the attendee feedback that may not be given during the survey process. After all, they themselves are experiencing the event through the lens of an attendee. Each event has its own set of demographics, preferences and expectations, and asking your volunteers to seek out and report back on feedback is a helpful way to ensure satisfied customers and achieve your goal of customer retention. MARSH: I’ve got a really good example of [volunteer input]. In 2017, I did a series of regional conferences, and for each one we had these interactive exercises with a volunteer facilitating it. The volunteers were able to help us refine the questions that were asked and the timing, so we devoted the right amount of time to each question. They were observing how the participants were interacting with each other and shared that feedback with us. The activity has grown and evolved, and become even more valuable for people. FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

CREDIT: ASAAD IMAGES

DESTINATION

What was once the indoor swimming pool of the Alcazar Hotel (1888-1931), now the Lightner Museum, is an ideal venue for elegant events and banquets in St. Augustine.

ST. AUGUSTINE AMERICA’S OLDEST CITY BOASTS NEW MEETING SPACES

t. Augustine, founded in 1565, earns the title of oldest European-founded settlement in America or simply, the “Nation’s Oldest City.” But meeting planners will be happy to know that St. Augustine offers new conference and lodging facilities with modern upscale options. While the city’s Old World charm predominates, it retains an enduring attraction for visitors. A mix of Spanish architecture, gilt-age opulence, plus a golfer’s paradise and a beach make Northeast Florida a prime location to host an event. And let’s not forget the year-round temperate climate. The Embassy Suites by Hilton, an AAA Four Diamond resort, is like no other in the brand. Opened in 2019, the Embassy Suites St. Augustine combines all of the typical brand perks with the amenities you’d expect at a luxury beach accommodation. And it’s only four miles from the historic Old Town. The sprawling property will wow your attendees with a private beach, waterfront activities, as well as state-of-the-art meeting rooms, outdoor event spaces and excellent food and beverage. The putting green doubles as the complimentary morning yoga classroom.

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

The property’s laid-back ambiance extends into 25,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space, including surfside event lawns, covered terraces and 11 meeting rooms. The largest ballroom, 7,194 sq. ft., allows banquet seating for 300 and views of the Atlantic. The lobby feels like it’s open-air yet is comfortably climate-controlled. The hotel offers 175 guestrooms (up from the original 120), along with two of the best amenities

CREDIT: ASAAD IMAGES

By Debi Lander

Embassy Suites St. Augustine pool area

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

CREDIT: ASAAD IMAGES

anywhere. All guests entertain your guests with receive a made-to-order full juicy tales, or put on a show breakfast and daily evening while they enjoy drinks complimentary happy hour, and dinner. The outdoor typically from 5:30 p.m. to setting under the sprawling 7:30 p.m. limbs of the great Colonial Meeting planner Oak creates a remarkable Elizabeth McKenna, CMP, evening. The Pirate and CED, took a group of 75 Treasure Museum, adjoining from Revlon to the Embassy the property, maintains a Suites St. Augustine. “Our collection of Smithsonianattendees are still talking quality pirate artifacts and Casa Monica Resort & Spa about how this resort made interactive displays. them feel and offered a The award-winning St. one-of-a-kind experience,” she relates. “The oceanfront Augustine Distillery is located in the city’s former ice plant resort is the hidden jewel of Florida, offering luxury rooms, and is ideal for small functions of up to 40 people. Larger outstanding food, breathtaking beach views, and a staff groups can tour the distillery and enjoy tasting the craft gin, willing to meet your every need. We are already looking at vodka and bourbon. planning our next event there as they made everything so Don’t overlook the most famous building in the city, effortless.” the former Ponce de Leon Hotel, now Flagler College. In the center of the historic Old Town, you’ll find the chic Millionaire Henry Flagler brought tourism to Florida, Casa Monica Resort & Spa. This five-star restored 1888 hotel beginning with his railroad and the 1888 Ponce de Leon offers 138 unique guestrooms and fine dining in its popular Hotel. A tour of the golden-age hotel offers a glimpse into restaurant. The Flagler Conference Center, over 3,200 sq. ft., the grandeur of the past. See a 100-ft.-high domed lobby, the offers quiet space for meetings (no windows), and the Casa world’s most extensive private collection of Tiffany stained Monica Ballroom, divisible by three, measures 3,560 sq. ft. glass windows, and electricity installed by Edison. Consider Sultan’s Pavillion, a delightful 1,200 sq. ft. outdoor space, the 8,900-sq.-ft. Grand Ballroom as a reception space for overlooks the 4,000-sq.-ft. pool deck. up to 400 guests. The ornate venue showcases elaborately Opposite the Casa Monica, you’ll find the Lightner painted ceiling murals and one-of-a-kind gilded details. The Museum, a true St. Augustine historic architectural gem. Solarium offers rooftop terraces with likely the best views in This property, a former Henry Flagler Hotel, entices visitors town. with extraordinary glassware collections, light fixtures, Another unusual but highly sought-after venue is the Saint Augustine Amphitheatre. The multipurpose arts sculpture and architectural relics from the Gilded Age. The and recreation center seats 4,700 on a 16-acre property. The entry lobby makes an ideal space for a cocktail gathering. meeting spaces often used by entertainers for professional However, the definitive event space, capacity of 250, is what shows include smaller indoor conference rooms and an used to be the famed swimming pool. Exterior terraces on outdoor pavilion and deck areas. the above floor and overlooking galleries top the locale. Construction is underway for the Hyatt Place Vilano The Treasury, a former bank just across the Plaza from Beach, on the the Casa Monica, presents a ballroom space with a formal opposite side of atmosphere. Marble columns and floors set the tone while the Intracoastal lighting pros change the theme to fit your needs. Perfect for Waterway. The hotel, an awards dinner, the venue seats up to 225. scheduled to open If you’d like to offer your attendees something more in August 2022, will informal, consider an excursion aboard the Sabrage, combine Florida-style a 63-ft. custom Cooper catamaran. The boat features a and Art Deco décor. premium sound system, a well-appointed bar, spacious It will include 120 decks, comfortable seating and a professional crew. Take a guestrooms, a finerelaxing daytime or sunset cruise and enjoy the notable city dining restaurant landmarks from the water. Cross under the Bridge of Lions and a rooftop bar. and view the fort (Castillo de San Marcos), a National Park Banquet rooms total site, from the vantage point of those colonials who tried to 7,200 sq. ft. with 3,000 overtake the town. Or let your group get rowdy on the Black sq. ft. prefunction Raven Pirate ship. Sailing becomes a fun way to encourage space. bonding. The Reef For a casual but authentic and memorable night, Restaurant, on the reserve the Colonial Quarter. It’s a short walk down the Atlantic’s Vilano pedestrian-only St. George Street. Costumed storytellers Black Raven Pirate Ship Beach, resting with meaningful connections to St. Augustine’s past will

directly on the Atlantic Ocean, offers the Ocean’s Edge, a comfortable upstairs facility for 75 seated diners.

area, with more than 100 pampering and beauty services. Sister property Ponte Vedra Lodge is a 66-room hotel. Party space on the second floor offers dramatic shoreline views.

GOLF HEAVEN IN PONTE VEDRA

CREDIT: ASAAD IMAGES

If your group is interested in golf, the Ponte Vedra area, located about 25 minutes from St. Augustine, will surpass expectations and bring rave reviews. The most thrilling destination for golfers is The Players Club (TPC) and Clubhouse, home to THE PLAYERS Championship, often referred to as “golf’s fifth major.” When attendees approach the massive 77,000-sq.-ft. Clubhouse, they’ll think they arrived at a vineyard chateau. The site offers full banquet facilities and catering at the highest culinary standards. Reserve the volunteer storytellers for a group tour and escorted golf cart rides to the TPC final three holes. They will see the famous 17th island hole, considered the world’s “most photographed hole in golf.”

Outdoor dining at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa

CREDIT: ASAAD IMAGES

TPC 17th hole

The preferred location to house serious golfers is the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa. The 65-acre grounds border the TPC course, and a cart path leads directly to the TPC Clubhouse. This upscale resort offers a total of 514 guestrooms between the main building and 80 one and two-bedroom villas (with kitchens) around the palmshrouded grounds. The Sawgrass Marriott Resort houses the 16,000-sq.-ft. Champions Ballroom and a Tournament Hall with 12,500 sq. ft. of exhibition space. A total of 60,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor space awaits your group. The Sawgrass shuttle takes guests on a five-minute ride to the Cabana Beach Club for private beach access. Meals in the new beachside restaurant are sure to please surf and sand lovers. The Sawgrass Spa is a 25,000-sq.-ft. sanctuary with 19 treatment rooms. Additionally, the grande dame Ponte Vedra Inn & Club, dating back to 1928, offers two championship courses teeming with coastal wildlife and beachside dining and pools. The facility includes 25,000 sq. ft. of flexible function space. Gorgeous guestrooms, some just steps from the ocean, number 262. The club’s renowned spa is the largest in the FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

The World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine, situated within the World Golf Hall of Fame complex between Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra, makes an informative outing for golf enthusiasts and non-golfers. The attraction’s goal is to preserve the sport’s history and legends. Groups can tour the facility in as little as an hour but it may take two to three. Most favor the locker room area, where inductees have chosen their mementos to represent their individual story. The multi-leveled attraction also contains banquet space, small meeting rooms and an outdoor natural grass 18-hole putting green — perfect for teambuilding or friendly competition. World Golf Village Renaissance St. Augustine features two 18-hole courses and can offer group tee times and customized golf tournaments. Planners will find the resort’s combination of hotel and conference center the largest between Orlando and Atlanta. The largest meeting room is 26,450 sq. ft., and the hotel includes 300 guestrooms. La Terrazza, an outdoor function space, can accommodate 2,000 people. Whether booking an event in St. Augustine or Ponte Vedra, meeting planners would do well to budget an afternoon of sightseeing or a meal in the Old Town, leaving time for groups to stroll along cobbled, car-free streets or ride a private trolley. Consider arranging a tour of Castillo de San Marcos. Construction using coquina (shell-stone) rock began in 1672, and the structure is considered the oldest masonry fort in North America. Another fun option is a visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse, presenting amazing views for those who would like the exercise of climbing 219 steps. History, beach, golf, water sports, and a dynamic downtown make Florida’s Historic Coast a sunny and stunning choice for meeting planners. One phone call to the St. Augustine & Ponte Vedra VCB will get you all the planning assistance you need.

VENUE REVIEW

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa This oceanside treasure offers groups plenty of space, sun and memorable moments By Laura Janelle Downey

iscover Puerto Rico (discoverpuertorico.com) can help connect planners to a variety of resorts on this scenic island, which attendees can visit sans passport. Among the best options for reward programs is the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. The 433-room property is located less than 10 minutes from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (aka PVR) and offers 8,880 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor event space. For the past 10-plus years, the team at HYTORC Industrial Bolting Systems has made Marriott Puerto Vallarta their go-to for golden sunsets and a good time. “If I could give it 10 stars, I would,” says Betsy Tapp, Executive Assistant/Event Planner at HYTORC Industrial Bolting Systems, based in New Jersey. “Our Global Sales Meeting is held here and the group — made up of colleagues from around the world including Japan and the United Kingdom to Dubai and Finland — absolutely loves it. So much so, one year we strayed and went to a 5-star resort on Maui and everyone wanted to go back to the Marriott Puerto Vallarta.” Her group usually utilizes the 5,813-sq.-ft. Vallarta Ballroom for sessions. “The size of our event varies as it is an incentive trip but ranges between 90 and 200 people,” she explains. “We activate multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, and while we typically use the indoor Vallarta Ballroom, we use multiple outdoor event spaces as well. We’ve used the beach area, garden and patios for our

welcome night as well as our awards celebration. With so many beautiful spaces to choose from, we can get creative year after year.” In addition, “The quality of food from [executive] chef Kelvin [Valenzuela] and his staff is also top notch — they go above and beyond on any special request we have,” Tapp says. Planners can also arrange for a private tequila tasting with Audrey Formisano, the property’s certified tequilier. Here, groups can sip on Marriott Puerto Vallarta’s very own brand of tequila, named CasaMagna. In addition, “the resort offers activities for spouses, which we love,” Tapp says. “From wine and paint nights and cooking classes to cocktail and dancing lessons, there is always exciting programming to keep everyone engaged.” Years ago, John K. Junkers, the late owner of HYTORC Industrial Bolting Systems, became enamored with Marriott Puerto Vallarta. Tapp says, “[He] fell in love with this hidden gem in the Pacific.” She echoes his sentiment. “I can’t speak highly enough about this resort, the staff, and the location. I have recommended it to my fellow meeting planners as my No. 1 pick.” And as a woman of her word, Tapp has already committed to Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa to host HYTORC Industrial Bolting Systems 2022 and 2023 events.

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

SITE & CITY PROFILES

TEXAS

AUSTIN CONVENTION CENTER

FACILITY FAST FACTS

WELCOMING YOU BACK TO AUSTIN AT FULL CAPACITY

he Austin Convention Center is operating at full capacity for events. This includes no capacity and occupancy limits, social distancing and mask requirements for in-person meetings and events. We welcome you back to Austin. The four-story, LEED® Gold-certified Austin Convention Center, is an accredited Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ Facility.

WE HAVE SPACE WITH COMPLIMENTARY WI-FI

Spanning six city blocks, the facility is located in the heart of Austin’s downtown business district. There are five column-free exhibit halls, totaling 247,052 sq. ft., and two ballrooms that range up to 40,510 sq. ft. in size, along with 54 meeting rooms and show offices. Ample parking is provided in two garages with 1,700 spaces. No need to roam, looking for the full connectivity sweet spot. New video walls are available for additional wayfinding and client messaging to go along with 24/7 network support and event customization. Our complimentary Wi-Fi can accommodate 20,000 devices at one time. Rated as one of the most technologically advanced convention centers in the country, the facility offers in-house services in addition to complimentary Wi-Fi, including redundant high-speed Internet II access and plug-and-play capabilities.

HOTELS

There are 42,000 hotel rooms in Austin and 12,000-plus of them are downtown within a two-mile radius of the convention center. Adjacent hotels connected by walkways include the 800-room Hilton Austin, connected by the Hilton Overhead Walkway at 4th, and The Fairmont Austin, North America’s largest Fairmont property with 1,048 rooms, connected via the Fairmont Canopy Walk. Additional nearby hotels include Four Seasons Hotel Austin, JW Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, Residence Inn by Marriott, Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown, Radisson Hotel & Suites, Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown, Driskill Hotel, Omni Austin Hotel Downtown, Intercontinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel, W Austin, Hyatt Place Downtown Austin and Westin Austin Downtown. The all-new Austin Marriott Downtown, located adjacent to the Austin Convention Center, opened last year with 600 guestrooms.

GBAC STAR ACCREDITATION

The Austin Convention Center is Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC) STAR™ accredited. This is the gold standard for prepared facilities. Under the guidance of GBAC, a Division of ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association, the Austin Convention Center and the Palmer Events Center are implementing the most stringent protocols for cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention.

Location: Downtown Austin Meeting & Exhibit Space: Stretching over six city blocks, the four story center offers 374,278 sq. ft. of meeting and exhibit space, and has 54 meeting rooms. Five contiguous exhibit halls with 247,052 sq. ft. of columnfree space. Technology: New video walls, plug-and-play capabilities and onsite technical staff. Ballrooms: Seven, ranging in size from cozy and intimate to one of the largest in Texas at 40,510 sq. ft. Food & Beverage: The Austin Convention Center Catering team works with area vendors to procure local ingredients for catering menus. Among the most popular items — more than 90 percent of them are produced in-house — are mouthwatering local favorites like street-style tacos, smoked meats and Tex-Mex. Capital Improvements – Enhancing Our Infrastructure: The Austin Convention Center Department’s capital improvement plan focuses on future growth needs and modernizing facilities. This includes the redevelopment of the Austin Convention Center and completing the construction of the Austin Convention Center Department Warehouse and Marshalling Yard. Under construction and estimated to be completed in 2022, the new 70,000-sq.-ft. offsite building will serve as a marshalling yard and warehouse capable of providing parking for up to 112 trucks and tractor-trailers along with spaces for employees and vehicle parking. Built to alleviate downtown event traffic and address the need for offsite storage, the facility is being constructed to meet LEED Silver.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Trisha Tatro, Director of Austin Convention Center Department Paul Barnes, Deputy Director – Chief Operations Officer Amy Harris, CMP, Director of Sales

500 E. Cesar Chavez Street, Austin, TX 78701 • (512) 404-4200; Fax: (512) 404-4220 conventionsales@austintexas.gov • austinconventioncenter.com FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

NEW JERSEY

ATLANTIC CITY

role in Atlantic City’s energy efficiency efforts. Located at ACUA, the Jersey-Atlantic Wind Farms have saved ACUA more than $6.1 million in energy costs and have prevented more than 62,000 metric tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere since its opening. This permits for a continued clean, safe and healthy environment.

MEANINGFUL MEETINGS IN ATLANTIC CITY

tlantic City is ready to create meaningful meetings together, as shown by the sustainability efforts throughout the seaside destination.

Atlantic City’s convenient location allows for visitors and meeting attendees to safely travel in the comfort of a car, an eco-conscious mode of transportation. However, air travel is available at the Atlantic City International Airport, located within 12 miles of Atlantic City, and the Philadelphia International Airport, located within 60 miles of Atlantic City. Situated in the heart of the Northeast and surrounded by many major cities, it’s the perfect destination to hold your next meeting or convention for easy accessibility.

Focused on future citywide sustainability and clean beaches, Atlantic City continues to offer a variety of corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. Regular beach cleanups help save and protect the city’s important wildlife and ecosystem, while organizations such as the Atlantic City Boys & Girls Club, Atlantic City Rescue Mission, South Jersey Food Bank and the Humane Society of Atlantic County always welcome volunteers to complete your organization’s detailed CSR accreditations and help regenerate the destination.

Leading the way with sustainable and energy-efficient efforts, Atlantic City can give you the space you need to meet safely and comfortably! With more than 17,500 first-class hotel rooms, 2.2 million square feet of meeting space citywide, and 486,600 contiguous square feet of exhibit space at the LEED Gold and GBAC STAR-certified Atlantic City Convention Center, we have the wide-open space you need for your group to meet. Adding to the energy-efficient efforts is the largest single roof-mounted solar array in the United States, which consists of 13,000 individual panels and covers over 290,000 square feet.

Beautification projects are necessary for every destination and its environment to thrive. Atlantic City is home to more than 50 murals, which can be found throughout the city on exterior building walls. The stories behind the artists’ work are as moving as the murals they create and continue to showcase the vibrancy of Atlantic City. In addition, after strolling the world-famous Boardwalk, you may find yourself resting in an Adirondack chair that has been constructed and remodeled by local artists.

In need of an affordable, safe and ecological mode of transportation for your attendees? The Atlantic City Jitney is the answer. Powered by compressed natural gas, this people mover runs throughout the city or can be tailored for a specific route for your event. The Atlantic County Utilities Authority (ACUA) also plays a vital

Atlantic City is focused on the future as the city continues to diversify itself and lead the way in regenerative tourism. Atlantic City looks forward to working with your group to establish meaningful meetings and conventions before, during and after your event. Experiences await here.

CONTACT

Larry Sieg, President and CEO, Meet AC (609) 318-5538 • lsieg@meetac.com

1 Convention Boulevard, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 • (844) 855-6338 • meetac.com 22

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

MASSACHUSETTS

#MeetSafeInBoston

or cities to successfully execute the safe return of meetings and events, planners and attendees must have confidence that destinations are fully committed and aligned on public health protocols that will ensure their safety. To that end, the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) has launched the #MeetSafeInBoston campaign. As a destination that hosts a multitude of medical and healthcare events, where world-class research hospitals interact with renowned universities and an unparalleled life sciences ecosystem, it is only fitting that Boston would pioneer innovative methods to create and communicate safety protocols around meetings and events. “We have launched the #MeetSafeInBoston campaign to demonstrate how committed we are to the safety of our meeting delegates here in Greater Boston and to instill confidence for future meeting planning,” said GBCVB President and CEO Martha J. Sheridan. “Additionally, and to further incentivize the return of group business, the GBCVB has launched a meetings promotion that provides a 10 percent rebate for new Q1 hotel meetings occurring in Boston and Cambridge between 2023-2026,” Sheridan added. Organizations that have held meetings in Boston in 2021 have already seen #MeetSafeInBoston come to life with successful events. Hearth Rhythm 2021 was the first full-scale business convention to return to Boston since the pandemic began, drawing more than 2,000 people to the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center (BCEC) — so the pressure was on to ensure a safe event. The in-person event made use of social distancing room sets, and Heart Rhythm worked closely with the convention center and the GBCVB to develop protocols to keep attendees safe. The 21 hotels

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

in the room block provided their safety protocols to share with guests, and they modeled many of those in the convention center. The Boston community banded together to make this event a success. Another healthcare event, HLTH, also took place recently at the BCEC. HLTH convenes key conversations in healthcare innovation and was coming to Boston for the first time this year. The result was a record attendance of more than 6,600 people, with over 700 joining virtually. HLTH required that the entire community be both vaccinated and required testing. In addition, HLTH worked closely with the BCEC, the GBCVB and the city of Boston on all safety protocols. HLTH felt the blend of the vaccines and testing created the best possible scenario for safety for all involved. Events of a smaller size are also returning. Destinations East returned in mid October, hosting 85 people at multiple Boston venues. Attendees not only felt safe throughout the event, but they were able to take part in activities across Boston, enhancing their experience of the event, and their confidence in producing events themselves in and around Boston. Getting to Boston from the U.K. is easy, with daily nonstop service on a number of carriers from London to Boston. And Logan International Airport is only three miles from the city center, making it easy for attendees once they land. The closest U.S. city to the U.K., Boston offers visitors everything they could want from an authentic U.S. experience — from seafood to shopping to sporting events and sightseeing, the city has it all. And now with #MeetSafeInBoston, planners can be confident that all of the precautions and protocols are in place to host a successful in-person event.

NEVADA

MGM RESORTS

ou’ll find meeting and event space in other places, but what you won’t find is all we offer at MGM Resorts. For decades, MGM has been leading the way by providing world-class experiences across all our destinations. At MGM Resorts, we accepted the challenge of ensuring that our meeting experiences and options are not only robust and plentiful but inspirational as well. We continue to reinvest in our offerings with meeting and event professionals in mind. From indoor to outdoor experiences, our venues range from some of the most famous arenas in the world to incredible unique facilities. MGM Resorts is home to unparalleled large-scale, outdoor meeting and event spaces such as the one-of-a-kind Mandalay Bay Beach and the interactive event neighborhood, The Park.

& Grill and provides a private, air-conditioned venue for a more intimate event or VIP reception.

THE PARK

Beautiful and engaging public spaces have become a trademark of MGM Resorts. The Park has reimagined the traditional pedestrian experience by creating a dynamic destination located just off the famed Las Vegas Strip. Explore The Park, an immersive outdoor dining and entertainment district, and discover an unrivaled sports and entertainment venue, T-Mobile Arena. This entertainment district adjacent to T-Mobile Arena offers casual outdoor dining restaurants, public art, and desert landscaping amid its three acres. The Park hosts some of the best outdoor special events, live music and entertainment. Groups can buy out restaurant venues or space in the park for fun and games.

MANDALAY BAY BEACH

This 11-acre tropical water and sand playground features a signature 1.6-milliongallon wave pool generating waves up to six feet high, a lazy river, four distinct swimming lagunas, jogging track, private cabanas, beach bungalows and villas. Mandalay Bay Beach is one of the most exciting event venues in Las Vegas. It offers groups many unique experiences, no matter the size, to create a memorable event. Always a popular outdoor event location for planners, Mandalay Bay Beach is a versatile space that can accommodate everything from a beach BBQ by day to a private concert by night. It’s a true one-of-a-kind destination. The outdoor stage is the site of an annual summer concert series. Performers have included One Republic, The Beach Boys, Sugarland, Cypress Hill and Weezer. The Beachside Ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows is located above the Beach Bar

LUXURY MEETINGS DISTRICT

Advanced designs in technology and architecture have long been the backbone of MGM Resorts and the meetings industry. Both innovation and architecture are on display throughout the Luxury Meetings District. This close nexus of venues makes it easy to move from one inspirational location to another, with sparks and serendipitous interactions happening along the way. You’ll find venue options of all sizes across the Luxury Meetings District, from intimate brainstorming spaces like The Ideation Studio at Park MGM, designed to spur productivity and creativity, to the expansive Bristlecone Ballroom at ARIA providing convention guests unparalleled space to create and innovate together. The Luxury Meetings District includes 44 restaurants, 16 pools and 19 unique venues, and is a central hub for any company, big or small.

mgmresorts.com 24

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

ARIZONA

PHOENIX CONVENTION CENTER

any groups look forward to visiting the Phoenix Convention Center (PCC) in the near future, and with good reason. Not only is the facility itself top quality, but it’s also surrounded by the best of the Valley of the Sun. With over 800,000 sq. ft. of retail space, restaurants and bars, and professional sports franchises in the vicinity, attendees have an array of free-time options. In addition, planners can take advantage of the presence of three public universities as potential sources for local speakers. What is more, this meetings oasis in the Sonoran Desert is very accessible. The Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is a mere four miles away from the PCC, which is served by a dedicated METRO Light Rail stop. Thanks to these assets, Phoenix’s convention industry is proving resilient even in the face of the pandemic. The PCC offers a variety of event venues, both indoors and outdoors, that a planner can select from according to space requirements in the age of social distancing. The Phoenix Convention Center is the first public venue in Arizona to receive GBAC STAR™ accreditation. Recognized as the gold standard of safe venues, GBAC STAR™ provides third-party validation to ensure the implementation of rigorous protocols in response to biorisk situations. The GBAC accreditation program enables facilities to maximize product use and best practices for sanitization and train staff to implement them at the level needed to thoroughly sterilize and clean environments in the era of COVID-19. All spaces have been designed to evoke the local environment, and indoor spaces feature a layout that greatly facilitates event logistics. “There are two features that set us apart from many of our competitors: Our architecture and our stacked floor plan,” says Jacqueline Davis, Marketing and Communications Manager. “Throughout our campus, guests will find a variety of colors, textures and finishes designed to capture the warm hues of the Sonoran Desert and the cool tones of an Arizona desert sky. Even our outdoor space, Canyon on Third, is bordered by our two main buildings (North and West), giving it a cavernous appearance that pays homage to the many canyons in Arizona. Additionally,

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

our campus layout is a stacked floor plan designed to make it convenient for guests to move about the campus.” The North and West Buildings offer a total of 502,500 sq. ft. of exhibit space, 81 meeting rooms and two large ballrooms, each measuring over 45,000 sq. ft. The South Building houses 143,400 sq. ft. of exhibit space, 18 meeting rooms and a 28,000-sq.-ft. ballroom. Canyon on Third spans over 80,000 sq. ft., accommodating a variety of events under the Arizona sky. “We find that a lot of meeting and event planners are looking for outdoor space to enhance the experience for attendees by offering a chance to take full advantage of the weather,” says Davis. “Our outdoor event space — Canyon on Third — is ideal for events that want a flexible, blank canvas. The space can be customized based on meeting and event needs. The space has been used for evening receptions, carnivals, fan festivals, security screening and so much more.” Just as the PCC’s design is attuned to the Southwestern locale, so is the facility’s cuisine. “Aventura’s state-of-the-art food court, PHX Kitchens Downtown Food Hall, provides an array of dining options, such as locally roasted coffee and authentic Mexican cuisine,” Davis notes. Aventura Catering, part of Aramark Corporation, was created specifically for the PCC and has established partnerships with local farms and suppliers to ensure the F&B that attendees enjoy is fresh, innovative and locally inspired. Aventura also contributes to the PCC’s sustainable operations by using compostable packaging and purchasing products made from plant-based materials free of any GMOs, among other practices. Indeed, environmentally conscious groups have an ideal partner in the Phoenix Convention Center, which is LEED Silver certified. “There are over 700 solar panels that generate enough output to power 14 homes in a year, and we’ve purchased more than 31,000 chairs made from recycled car batteries and seatbelts to use in our meeting rooms,” Davis explains. “We also recycle more than 460 tons of material each year.” Just as the Phoenix Convention Center is devoted to conserving the environment, it is also fulfilling its due diligence when it comes to protecting attendees and staff.

ARIZONA

TUCSON

ucson is a great meetings destination because Tucson is a great travel destination. And now, planners are seeking Tucson’s “Wide Open Spaces” more than ever. Attendees are looking to get outside, to go beyond the ballroom, and Tucson, surrounded by five mountain ranges and bordered on the east and west by Saguaro National Park, offers unlimited hiking, biking and outdoor activities, and the warm sunshine needed to enjoy them all. Plus, Tucson-area resorts and hotels all feature exceptional outdoor spaces for meetings and events. Tucson has always been known as a resplendent resort destination, but what you might not know is that in the past year, 600 new hotel rooms have opened in Tucson’s Downtown & Main Gate Entertainment Districts, perfectly complementing the newly renovated and expanded Tucson Convention Center (an ASM-managed facility).

PLANNER INCENTIVES

Visit Tucson’s award-winning incentives are hard to pass up. Our “You Fly, We Buy” site inspection promotion offers complimentary round-trip airfare for qualified RFPs. The “Master Account Credit” lets planners earn up to $5,000 toward their hotel master account based on rooms pickup, and the “Destination Downtown” incentive offers a similar credit, but to your convention center master account! Learn more about these programs at TucsonOnUs.com.

EASY ACCESS

Tucson International Airport (TUS) lets you take off with 23 nonstop destinations in the U.S. and Canada and convenient onestop connections to hundreds of cities around the world.

And the best part is, Tucson’s air service continues to grow with new routes being added regularly.

CITY OF GASTRONOMY

Known for its borderlands culture and extraordinary cuisine, Tucson is the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the United States and one of the best places to eat Mexican food north of the border. Top chefs from area hotels and resorts have embraced cooking in a foodie town, adding local ingredients and southwestern flair into many an expertly crafted dish. And it goes without saying that with Tucson’s signature warm weather, outdoor dining is always on the menu.

ASTRONOMY CAPITAL

Aside from the lights of Tucson’s downtown scene, prepare to be wowed by the natural light show seen across the clear desert skies each night. Whether looking into deep space through one of the world’s largest telescopes, like the ones found at Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter or by taking a guided star tour at a local resort, Tucson is truly a stargazer’s dream.

CHOOSE TUCSON

As business travel continues to ramp up, destination selection will be more important than ever, and attendees may be traveling more mindfully with the intent to experience pre- and post-meeting wellness, teambuilding and adventure activities that go beyond the ballroom. Luckily for planners, Tucson can offer it all and more. Add in Visit Tucson’s award-winning incentive offers, and you’ll quickly see why this is the perfect time to choose Tucson.

Visit Tucson • 115 N Church Ave, Suite 200, Tucson, AZ 85701 • (800) 638-8350 • visittucson.org 26

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

TAKE HYBRID TO THE NEXT LEVEL 9 best practices to elevate the experience for all participants By Devin Cleary

efore COVID-10, events took place almost exclusively in person, and with good reason. They offer attendees opportunities to grow their knowledge, hear from experts and establish business relationships in a very engaging, face-to-face environment. While the pandemic required a quick pivot to virtual platforms, meeting planners saw an opportunity to make hybrid events permanent. If marketers and event professionals have learned one thing, it’s that while reimagining event formats and embracing hybrid might require extra planning, when done well, a hybrid event experience pays off in dividends. The best aspect about hybrid events? They’re not onesize-fits-all. They fall along a spectrum requiring meticulous planning, strategy and a different mindset to execute well. Delivering a unified hybrid experience doesn’t mean creating the same exact experience for in-person and virtual audiences. It means creating the best experience for each audience. Here’s how: and automate high-touch processes to help manage 1 Streamline and coordinate all stakeholders. Automating reduces the burden on your team and minimizes the risk of errors.

the methods by which they attend. Use these data-driven insights to guide content and agenda creation, and to increase engagement.

Humans are social animals, and hybrid events support that social need by offering the best of both worlds: in-person interactions and an opportunity to connect with people around the globe. accessibility by considering various circumstances people 7 Champion face. Provide multiple paths to virtual and in-person attendees for engagement, because inclusivity matters. Offer a range of options to interact so everyone receives the full benefit of the experience.

a unified, compelling brand experience by making it easier content access any time, anywhere. Whether your audienc2 Create 8 Grant for attendees to navigate your event and engage with the es attend in person, virtually or a combination of the two, broader community via mobile apps, live polling, Twitter feeds, interactive agendas and other communitybuilding tools.

offer them 24/7 access to your content across all devices by building a library of on-demand content.

advantage of new technologies. Live audiences produce 9 Take environments to create connections by humanizing energy, shared moments and human interactions that 3 Foster events and providing opportunities to generate chemistry between audiences and speakers. Consider adding an emcee to help unify the whole event, connecting the dots for in-person and virtual attendees.

intentional about gathering the right information to deliver the best 4 Beexperience for each participant. Use your event platform to collect and analyze data, taking those insights to curate personalized experiences for each attendee. When they find events relevant and meaningful, participants are more likely to engage with you and your brand deeper into the pipeline.

emails, surveys, digital and in-person breakout rooms, and work5 Use shops to enable people to connect and offer input, grow communities and create other opportunities to engage.

advantage of data by using your event experience platform to 6 Take capture information. Collect virtual experience analytics on which sessions people register for, which they join, and

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

amplify emotional involvement. Use technology to bring those elements into virtual experiences as well. Crowd amplification tools, like those of Whalebone, generate hyper-realistic sounds like clapping, cheering and buzz. Virtual attendees can show their support, giving speakers and producers real-time feedback and creating a more human, connected experience while driving engagement.

Humans are social animals, and hybrid events support that social need by offering the best of both worlds: in-person interactions and an opportunity to connect with people around the globe. When planned with forethought, they cut through the noise to stand out and deliver a real impact on the audience every step of the way. So be bold. Embrace the unknown and open yourself to new ideas and possibilities. At Bizzabo’s Agents of Hybrid event last summer, Elise Orlowski, Senior Video Director Continued on page 31

AV YOUR WAY How to preserve the freedom to choose between independent and in-house audiovisual providers By Steve Wildemann

udiovisual (AV) providers come in as many shapes and sizes as there are kinds of events. There are large and small companies, in-house and independent providers. It’s up to you, as the planner, to evaluate what type of AV company will work best for your event and client. But if you want the event done your way, you need to be proactive. Before a venue contract is signed, planners should secure their freedom of choice between the in-house AV company and an independent provider. Here’s how to preserve that freedom:

START WITH THE RFP AND CONTRACT

Once the venue contract is signed, a planner has lost negotiation power. At that point, you’re committed to the in-house AV option, or to paying a variety of fees if you opt to bring in your own AV partner. Start off early with the RFP and include a provision that allows the freedom to bring in outside AV providers. Supply the venue with terms that maintain freedom of choice with no additional fees or penalties. All fees are negotiable during the contract stage and are easily avoided if planners take a proactive stance during their site selection process.

INCLUDE LANGUAGE TO PROTECT FREEDOM OF CHOICE

Here is a sample clause planners can use in the RFP to preserve freedom of choice: Due to the unique nature of our meeting program format, [Your company] has a partnership with an AV provider that is familiar with our needs. We will plan to utilize their services for much of our AV meeting requirements. They, in turn, may rent equipment and/ or labor from the in-house provider to augment their needs while onsite. When replying to this RFP, please address our requirement to exclude any fees or charges or requirements to [Your company] or our AV partner. It is incumbent upon the facility to remove clauses regarding such fees or requirements from any proposals prior to

submission to [Your company]. [Your Company] expects the facility to openly bring up and address these items for a detailed discussion prior to including any of them within our final agreement. The following is sample language planners can use in the contract when negotiating with the venue: [Your company] reserves the option to use our own AV provider for all of our AV needs with no additional charges, fees or penalties of any type to [Your company] or our AV partner. Examples of these include, but are not limited to: •R equirements for supervisory labor to move-in/out of the facility • Fees to prepare rooms for use •C harges for podiums, basic power, staging, heating, air conditioning or lights within the meeting room • Flat daily outside vendor fees •R equirements to use floor or wall coverings when not practiced by the in-house AV company •N ew labor/union contracts (if there were none at the submission of the proposal or when signing the contract) •W i-Fi rates that are higher than if the in-house AV company were utilized. A planner’s choice of AV provider should not impact the cost of Wi-Fi service. An independent AV partner can assist planners with the contract language and provide sample terms and advice for negotiating with venues.

DON’T UNDERESTIMATE THE VALUE INDEPENDENT AV CAN OFFER

If preserving freedom of choice seems difficult and going with the in-house option looks more convenient, there is a reason for that. It’s in the venue’s interest for planners to use the in-house company. In-house AV vendors pay venues commissions for their “preferred vendor” status. Ultimately, you as the event planner pay for these commissions as in-house vendors set their prices so they can cover the costs. Outsourced AV partners don’t have the burden of paying the facility, and that freedom often lets those companies deliver the same Continued on page 31

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

FE SITE SA

ESI

E G NE

2023 Top Safe Sites During COVID

Nomination Ballot

Please consider the following criteria when voting for cities:

Name of Nominee______________________________________________________

• Citywide COVID safety programs • CVB safe meeting support services • Safety practices in hotels, meeting venues and transportation hubs • Trends in reported cases

Check nominee type:

Please consider the following criteria when voting for convention centers: • GBAC STAR or related certifications • Staff’s sanitation practices • Disinfection technology • COVID safety signage • COVID testing procedures • Accommodations for social distancing

City

Convention Center

Your Name____________________________________________________________ Your Title_____________________________________________________________ Organization__________________________________________________________ Phone________________________________________________________________ Email_________________________________________________________________

Fill Out Form & Mail to: Facilities & Destinations, PO Box 1807, New York, NY 10150 or Email to: ballots@facilitiesonline.com

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

WE’RE READY WHEN YOU’RE READY

LET’S START PLANNING {AGAIN}! JOHN S. KNIGHT CENTER | AKRON, OH

15 Minutes Away From CAK

Staff Is 92% Friendlier Than The Other Guys

8 Out Of 10 Visitors Rate Food “Excellent”

35 Minutes Away From CLE

(the other 2 think it’s “Really Good”)

ENSURING THE HIGHEST STANDARDS:

Building Sanitation Food Preparation/Handling Air Filtration Systems

JOHN S. KNIGHT CENTER

123,000 Square Feet For Convening, Collaborating, Dining & Even Dancing.

Whether it’s a one-night event or week-long conference, our professional staff is here to ensure a top-notch experience both inside and out.

AKRON, OH

Call 800.245.4254 or visit johnsknightcenter.org for 360o tours!

TAKE HYBRID TO THE NEXT LEVEL AV YOUR WAY Continued from page 27

Continued from page 28

at event marketing agency Cramer, challenged event and meetings professionals to create better experiences. She said, “Take inspiration from consumer content, like Netflix and movies — [think about] how can we create those cliffhanger moments. When structuring content — how can we hook the audience?” A combination of knowledgeable event organizers, strategies, technology and tools elevates hybrid events and creates truly transformative experiences for all audiences, regardless of how they attend.

services at a lower cost, or more comprehensive solutions for the same cost, as the in-house vendor. Whether or not planners use an independent AV company or go with the in-house provider, if they preserve their freedom in the contract stage, they have options later. At the very least, there can be a competitive bidding process that includes the in-house provider as well as independent AV companies.

Devin Cleary is the VP of Global Events at Bizzabo, a leading event technology platform for hybrid, virtual and in-person events. Cleary is an event producer and marketing executive with experience leading the creation and active management of diverse experiential marketing programs for B2B, nonprofit and consumer markets. Cleary was recognized as one of Connect Association’s “40 under 40” leaders in 2021. He was also featured in Event Marketer’s 2017 “B2B Dream Team” and BostInno’s “50 on Fire.”

Make a Plan. Make it Boise. Centrally located in the heart of vibrant downtown Boise, the recently expanded Boise Centre has a variety of customizable meeting spaces, modern amenities, exceptional culinary services and a friendly and dedicated staff ready to make your next event an unforgettable experience. Explore Idaho’s premier convention center for yourself.

Steve Wildemann is President of Rental and Staging Network (RSN) and President and Owner of Advanced Staging Productions, based in West Chester, PA.

ADVERTISER INDEX Austin Convention Center.....1 Boise Centre..........................31 Greater Boston CVB............ C3 Akron/Summit CVB...............30 Las Vegas CVA...................... C2

Meet AC...................................3 MGM Resorts........................ C4 Phoenix Convention Center..5 Visit Sacramento....................32 Visit Tucson..............................7

• Centralized, downtown location • Only seven minutes from Boise airport • Over 25 direct flights to and from Boise • Closely surrounded by more than 100 restaurants • Over 1,300 hotel rooms within walking distance • Close to outdoor recreation, including the The Boise Greenbelt

LEARN MORE: boisecentre.com

FACILITIES & DESTINATIONS 2022 SPRING

Who says your convention has to be so conventional? It’s time to take your delegates beyond the status quo to experience something new. With the new state-of-the-art SAFE Credit Union Convention Center, you don’t have to go to the same old places to find the facilities and support services to meet your needs and exceed all expectations.

PLAN A CONVENTION LESS ORDINARY TODAY AT VISITSACRAMENTO.COM/SCCEXPANSION

BOSTON THE BEST CONNECTIONS ARE MADE IN PERSON.

BOSTONUSA.COM/MEET SAFE CONTACT US: SALES@BOSTONUSA.COM

MGM RESORTS

IS WHERE INSPIRATION TAKES CENTER STAGE

YOU HAD TO BE HERE. FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK YOUR EVENT WITH MGM RESORTS, VISIT MGMRESORTS.COM

2022 F&D Spring

Articles inside

SITE & CITY PROFILES

In Brief

AV Your Way, by Steve Wildemann

St. Augustine

2022 F&D Safe Sites and Future-Driven Leaders Designees

Take Hybrid to the Next Level, by Devin Cleary

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa

ADVERTISER INDEX