California Meetings + Events Winter 2023

experience

experience

Celebrating more than 25 years of connections at the Ontario Convention Center.

There’s a special type of magic that happens when you gather people in the ideal space at the right time. What it generates is a feeling of togetherness and connectivity that inspires the best work, and the happiest people. Greater Ontario takes that magic and makes it soar with the perfect setting where you can get down to business, and moments later, you can set free on any adventure of your choosing. It’s all here for you, right now.

Are you ready to get connected?

BRAND COLORS + DARKER BLUE + SILVER EST. 1997

ONTARIO CONVENTION CENTER

Feature // A Step Toward the Future

BY SHELLEY LEVITT

Notes

Meet + Eat

Industry Update

&

Pasadena City Hall

PHOTO COURTESY

Tourism leaders across the Golden State share their insight on the everchanging industry.

Addressing Challenges With Creativity

» A NEW YEAR BRINGS opportunities , especially in the steadily recovering meetings industry. However, some challenges remain, particularly with staffing. In a recent member survey conducted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association, 87% of respondents reported they are experiencing staffing shortages.

When I attended the opening of the Marriott International headquarters in Bethesda, Maryland, Marriott’s CEO, Anthony Capuano, spoke about the staffing shortages his company was confronting. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Marriott had about 6,000 staff vacancies at any one time; now that number is over 8,000. I asked Capuano how Marriott was dealing with these shortages. His response demonstrated that the hospitality industry is meeting today’s challenges with creativity. “One thing we’re doing, which is a fundamental shift from how the hospitality industry has staffed hotels, is we’re welcoming the idea of part-time managers,” he said. He went on to cite a Marriott hotel that hired two former associates, neither of whom was able to take on a full-time job, to share the role of finance director for the property, one working three days a week, the other two days.

Capuano also recounted a conversation he had recently with U.S. Secretary of Labor Martin J. Walsh. “He had told me he met with a few dozen retail CEOs and they all talked about this phenomenon of the bus-stop schedule,” Capuano said. Job applicants were telling prospective employers that they were open to working the traditional 40 hours, but they wanted to watch their children get on the bus in the morning and get off the bus at the end of the day. Once their children were safely back at home, they were happy to return to work. “That’s not a flex schedule that historically the hospitality industry has embraced,” Capuano said. “But today we’re embracing lots of unique scheduling approaches, and it’s helping immensely in dealing with staffing challenges.” These types of new approaches to the work week will not only mitigate staffing shortages, but they’ll also go a long way in helping all of us achieve the kind of career-life balance that supports job satisfaction and peak performance.

Here’s to a prosperous and innovative 2023!

SHELLEY LEVITT Editor

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an impact with your next event at Boise Centre. Our versatile meeting and event spaces, modern amenities, and expert event planning team is at your service to ensure an unforgettable event experience. Located in the middle of the city’s energetic, walkable downtown Boise Centre is surrounded by local breweries, restaurants, shops, hotels and is minutes from outdoor adventures.

Seclusion in the Bay Area

» THERE ARE DOZENS of waterfront meeting destinations in the San Francisco Bay area, but perhaps none so bucolic as Tiburon, a picturesque community in Marin County, just across Richardson Bay from Sausalito and within sight of the Golden Gate Bridge. The walkable, single-story downtown is loaded with cute shops and sophisticated eateries, but the attraction that draws most out-of-town visitors is Angel Island—a rolling, 740-acre state park and nature refuge just one nautical mile offshore.

“There’s no other place close to the city that lets you escape so entirely,” says Brittany Haning, a spokesperson for the Angel Island Conservancy. “It’s hard to believe that something with so much historical value and significance is often overlooked, even by people who look out at the island every day.”

The Angel Island Tiburon Ferry Co. operates three vessels crossing back and forth from Tiburon to Angel Island, which are all available for group gatherings. “We can arrange all kinds of private charters—corporate events, cocktail hours, birthday parties—just about any type of party on the water you can think of,” says Ashley Kristensen, a manager with the ferry company.

The standard ride from Tiburon to the island’s Ayala Cove Marina is just 15 to 20 minutes, with passengers dropped off at a landing area with restrooms and an excellent restaurant, Cove Cafe, that can cater picnics on a grassy lawn area nearby.

Some 13 miles of hiking trails and 8 miles of bike trails provide lots of options for exploring on your own. Many groups opt for a narrated tram tour that covers the cultural and historic aspects of the island, from its early days as a home to the Coastal Miwok, to its role during the Civil War, World War II, and the Cold War, as well as its status as a quarantine and immigration station nicknamed the “Ellis Island of the West.” More than half a million immigrants, mostly European, from over 80 nations were processed there between 1910 and 1940. Immigrants from China were initially detained, and visitors can take a self-guided or group tour of the Barracks Museum to learn more about the history of immigrant detention and exclusion.

Back on the mainland, the Lodge at Tiburon is a beautifully renovated 104room property just a block from the waterfront and ferry terminal—it is a favorite with groups, from academic gatherings to corporate events, says Sauline Gulbiniene, the lodge’s director of food and beverage. Event spaces ranging from nooks and crannies to a trio of ballrooms and spacious pool and patio areas can accommodate groups of up to 200.

There are many benefits to being off the beaten track, Gulbiniene says. “Besides being a lot less congested than San Francisco, we are warmer and sunnier, too. And, we have free parking,” she says. With overnight parking in San Francisco topping $80 a night these days, that’s a Bay Area plus that planners and attendees will appreciate. And, athletic attendees have another transportation option: biking over the Golden Gate Bridge and arriving at Tiburon via the Tiburon Peninsula Path.

–Janet Fullwood

townoftiburon.org aiisf.org

Remote, eclectic spaces abound on Angel Island.

NEW ITALIAN TEAR-AND-POUR PREMIUM COCKTAILS

» NIO COCKTAILS —or “needs ice only” cocktails—is an Italian beverage brand hoping to reinvent the way we consume ready-to-drink premium cocktails at events. Making its debut in Milan and now available exclusively in California, NIO offers more than a dozen classic and modern cocktails in single-serve packets, featuring recipes developed by an award-winning Italian master bartender.

“NIO is the perfect solution for catered events, especially in remote or unusual locations or in spaces where setting up a traditional bar isn’t all that easy,” says Jeffrey Raven, CEO of NIO. “Caterers love the fact that they can serve high-end cocktails that taste delicious without having to drag around numerous bottles, mixers, or fuss with hiring specialty bartenders.”

niococktails.us

HAYES MANSION COMPLETES $20M RENOVATION

The Hayes Mansion San Jose unveiled its refreshed look and joined the Curio Collection by Hilton in August 2022. The $20 million renovation includes 214 revamped guest rooms and suites, 33,000 square feet of upgraded event space, and a reimagined lobby. Originally constructed in 1905, Hayes Mansion sits on 6 acres adjacent to a 20-acre park and is only minutes from downtown San Jose.

“We look forward to welcoming back our esteemed guests and organizations who have made Hayes a premier and unique historic destination,” says Jeff Carpenter, general manager of Hayes Mansion San Jose. “The hotel has been reimagined and transports visitors back to the rich history of the Hayes Mansion estate with a twist of modern flair and amenities desired by today’s guest.”

The property’s 33,000 square feet of event space is flexible and varied, ranging from the 6,600-square-foot Hayes Ballroom (capacity of 500) and the East Lawn (capacity of 1,500), to intimate parlors, patios, and conservatories. Palm & Ember, a new restaurant, includes a 150-person dining room that flows out to a scenic 40-person outdoor terrace and garden area.

Palm Springs

Desert Oasis

BY SHELLEY LEVITT

» THE COACHELLA VALLEY HAS SURGED as an event destination recently. Some 100 miles east of Los Angeles, the nine cities of the Greater Palm Springs area, with Joshua Tree National Park in its backyard, have become hot destinations during the pandemic for people eager to flee from Los Angeles and other California cities—and the heat remains for group travel. “All the things that appeal to the leisure traveler are appealing to groups, as well,” says Colleen Pace, chief sales and marketing officer at Visit Greater Palm Springs. “We have a beautiful climate, a huge range of outdoor experiences, and all the culture and amenities of a big city without the congestion and traffic.”

Tia Quinn, founder and CEO of Boost Collaborative, a San Diego-based organization that provides professional development for educators, has hosted conferences and events in Palm Springs since 2002. In April 2022, the organization chose Palm Springs for its annual four-day conference, which drew more than 2,500 attendees.

The Palm Springs Convention Center, with 112,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 20,000-square-foot ballroom, 10 breakout rooms, and the attached 410-room Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel with over 38,000 square feet of meeting space, was the location for the more than 200 workshops, a film festival, classes, town hall meetings, over 120 exhibitors, networking sessions, and special events. “We contracted with six hotels in Palm Springs’ city center,” Quinn says. “However, our attendees stayed at over 40 different locations throughout the Coachella Valley. We love the desert vibe of Palm Springs, and our attendees especially enjoy the Village Fest [the Thursday night street fair held year-round] and being able to walk to downtown Palm Springs to shop, eat, and explore.” Quinn already has Palm Springs booked for its 2023 conference— and she’s not alone.

“We’ve had a lot of new interest in Greater Palm Springs as well as pent-up demand from rebooking meetings and conventions that couldn’t occur these past few years,” says Pace. “That combination has created a lot of compression [higher demand for available space] in the short term.” Her advice to planners considering the destination is to book early. “The more notice we’re given, the more likely we are to be able to provide the dates that meeting planners are looking for,” she says.

Pace adds that a number of renovations and openings took place since the start of COVID-19 that planners have yet to experience. Here’s a look at what’s new.

EXPANDED AIR LIFT

Getting to Palm Springs is easier than ever. Palm Springs International Airport now offers seasonal nonstop flights via 13 airlines from 37 destinations, including New York City, Chicago, Dallas, San Francisco, Denver, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Seattle. In November 2022, Avelo Airlines began offering nonstops from Santa Rosa/ Sonoma, and Bend and Eugene, Oregon. On the road, FlixBus recently introduced year-round service between Las Vegas,

With abundant outdoor space, venues galore, and many recent renovations, the Greater Palm Springs area is a magnet for meetings and events.

A sculpture in Civic Center Park reminds passersby to relax.

Nevada, and Palm Springs. “We’re not just a Southern California or California draw,” Pace says. “We draw groups from all over, and we have sales teams deployed in every region of the country.”

TWO MAJOR NEW VENUES TAKE A BOW

Opened in December 2022, Acrisure Arena is a 300,000-squarefoot, 10,000-seat sports and entertainment center in Palm Desert. It will host major concerts presented by Live Nation and will be home to the Seattle Kraken’s American Hockey League franchise, the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Upcoming performances include Chris Rock and Dave Chappelle, the Doobie Brothers, Maroon 5, and the Eagles. “This is another wonderful nightlife option for groups,” Pace says. With 20 executive suites cantilevered over the lower seating bowl, and the East and West Loft Clubs (private premium spaces pouring local craft beers), there are options for luxe gatherings. The arena will also be available for private events for up to 11,000 guests.

Another new venue is the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza, a massive cultural initiative honoring California’s Native American heritage, set to open in early 2023 in downtown Palm Springs. Featuring a tribal museum, a spa, and an outdoor Oasis Trail, the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza is the second largest of its kind in the United States and a long-awaited addition to cultural tourism in Greater Palm Springs. “We know that experiencing local culture is something that’s important to visitors, and we have seen research that says it’s also important to meeting planners because that’s what their attendees are eager for,” Pace says. “The cultural center will provide an interactive learning experience about the Indigenous culture of our destination, and also will provide a unique setting for events with the opportunity to host gatherings in the beautiful outdoor plaza area.”

NEW AND RENOVATED HOTELS

Several key group resorts in Greater Palm Springs have completed extensive renovations. The 215-room Miramonte Resort & Spa Indian Wells unveiled a $9 million property-wide renovation that transforms the resort’s secluded 11 acres into a contemporary version of a classic Mediterranean retreat. “We are excited to reintroduce the elevated resort to the community and travelers from all over the world,” says General Manager Ajit Acharya. “This transformation was designed to meet the needs of today’s leisure and business travelers while paying respect to Miramonte’s rich history, stunning location, and the unique culture of the Coachella Valley. From our new spa menu and Mediterranean-inspired dining options to the reimagined spaces throughout the property, we have created a luxurious wellness escape and know guests will appreciate the attention to detail we put into this renovation.”

Above: Visitors enjoy sculpture at the Palm Springs Art Museum;

Right: The recently renovated Miramonte Resort & Spa Indian Wells

Miramonte Resort & Spa offers over 35,000 square feet of multipurpose indoor-outdoor space for gatherings of up to 500 guests.

In Palm Desert, the 884-room JW Marriott Desert Springs, a 450-acre resort featuring two 18-hole championship golf courses, 20 tennis courts, a 38,000-square-foot spa, five pools, multiple restaurants and lounges, and 287,000 square feet of indooroutdoor event space, completed a $50 million redesign. The interior of the conference center space now exudes a cool blue midcentury chic design that includes the 25,000-square-foot Sinatra Ballroom—the largest in Greater Palm Springs. Also claiming bragging rights is the new JW Entertainment Zone, a 12,000-square-foot space available for group buyouts that is the largest arcade in the state. It offers both high-tech simulators and classic games like duckpin bowling and Skee-Ball.

Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa in Indian Wells, with 560 rooms and over 213,000 square feet of meeting space, has also spent millions on a refresh and is able to accommodate groups from 20 to 2,000. The resort has some of the prettiest outdoor venues in Greater Palm Springs, including its lovely Olive Grove, which is available for group yoga classes and other wellness activities, as well as dinners set on long tables amid the olive trees.

In a major rebrand, the former Riviera is now the 398-room Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs. As the first West Coast resort from the Jimmy Buffet-inspired hotel brand, the property features a laid-back vibe—the bar is called License to Chill—and over 40,000 square feet of event space.

Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa, formerly known as Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, completed a two-year $15 million resort-wide renovation. With 512 guest rooms and 130,000 square feet of event space, the resort sits on 365 acres and places an emphasis on the outdoors. The new Backyard features a stage, terrace, and outdoor kitchen. Recognizing a fast-moving sports trend, the resort also offers a dozen pickleball courts.

DESTINATION Palm Springs

“We’ve had a lot of new interest in Greater Palm Springs as well as pent-up demand from rebooking meetings and conventions that couldn’t occur these past few years.”

–COLLEEN PACE, VISIT GREATER PALM SPRINGS

PHOTOS: VISIT GREATER PALM SPRINGS

The Palm Springs Architecture Museum; Above: The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway gives riders a dazzling view of the scenery.

“Turning the page to the resort’s next chapter … the design and renovations have been centered on bringing people together, fun new experiences, and the guest’s overall wellness, sending them home feeling better than when they arrived,” says Tom Scaramellino, the property’s general manager.

Team-building activities abound in the area, from flooring it on the track of the BMW Performance Center West, ascending more than 8,500 feet aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, soaring in a hot air balloon, visiting the new Rhino Savanna at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, partnering with Big Wheels Tours for a 20-mile Earthquake Canyon Express Downhill Bike Adventure, or combining the Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours with a scavenger hunt. And, of course, there is golf, tennis, hiking, shopping in downtown Palm Springs, museum hopping, and midcentury architectural tours.

With the abundance of activities, a variety of venues, and restaurants opening weekly, planners would be wise to take advantage of the complimentary services of Visit Greater Palm Springs. “We are really the best resource,” Pace says. “[For example,] a planner may not be aware of all the private estates here that are an option for a reception or a dinner. And when planners come for a site visit, we take you around to all the hotels and attractions and make sure it’s an immersive experience. Then our team helps with everything from front-end booking to the execution of the meeting.” visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

Below: The refreshed Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa;

Right: An excursion on Desert Adventures Red Jeep Tours

Try Something Sweet

Baking classes are a tasty way to bond with your team.

BY AVA DIAZ

» WHAT BETTER WAY TO CONNECT with your colleagues or clients than to spend time together creating something delectable to eat? Especially when those creations are freshly baked. We sifted through some small group experiences from around the state to come up with these five tasty gather-and-bake options.

BAKING ARTS

SAN FRANCISCO

Baking was a later-in-life passion for Baking Arts owner Richard Festen. Starting his career in biochemistry, he later drifted into the kitchen to experiment with new compounds. “I love the chemistry of cooking, and our classes are based on that,” he says. “We all have access to the same flour, sugar, and eggs, but it really is about technique and what you do with that to make something truly extraordinary.”

The studio offers classes for private groups of up to 14 to create classic baked goods like sourdough bread and scones, candy favorites such as caramel and peanut brittle, and an assortment of pastries, cookies, and chocolates.

“We are trying to make this a great social experience where you can make great food, have a good time, and bond with one another over completing these particular tasks,” Festen says. bakingarts.net

COOK AND BAKE WITH LAURIE

SANTA

BARBARA

With over 35 years of culinary experience, Laurie Zalk launched Cook and Bake with Laurie out of her love for creating food that’s both healthy and delicious. The former owner of Our Daily Bread in Santa

Barbara, Zalk leads groups in creating easy and fun recipes made with familiar ingredients in the comfort of her own kitchen.

Zalk also leads two-hour classes in off-site kitchens and facilities—options include baking breads, pies, and pizzas, as well as crafting desserts and more. Groups are welcome to bring their own drinks to enjoy as they learn these culinary arts.

“My style of teaching is simple and very clear, and always with humor,” Zalk says. “For most of us, a hands-on experience is the best way to learn. We seem to remember better when our hands work alongside our brains.” cookandbakewithlaurie.com

COOKIES ARE EVERYTHING

SANTA

MONICA

Hilary Gudgel, owner of Cookies Are Everything, believes that the possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating a sugar cookie. “There is a lot of opportunity to get creative and take something that is simple to the next level,” she says.

Hosting in her kitchen, Gudgel leads groups of up to 10 students from baking sugar cookies to decorating them. Experiences can be tailored to include a company’s logo, colors, or customized shapes. In addition to at-home classes, Gudgel also offers her services at off-site venues to accommodate larger groups, and she has plans to open a new studio in Santa Monica in spring 2023 that will be available for private buyouts for groups of up to 14. cookiesareeverything.com

PHOTOS: COOKIES ARE EVERYTHING; BAKING ARTS; (OPPOSITE) COOKIES ARE EVERYTHING; COOK AND BAKE WITH LAURIE

Richard Festen of Baking Arts;

Top Left and Right: Delicious creations by Cookies Are Everything

EATALY LOS ANGELES

You will feel like you have been transported to Italy when you step into the sprawling Eataly marketplace in LA’s luxe Westfield Century City shopping mall. The Italianinspired culinary venue offers a variety of hands-on and hands-off cooking and baking experiences. You can bring a group of up to 16 to create cannoli, panna cotta, or tiramisu, while enjoying those creations alongside a meal of freshly made pizza or handmade pasta. Or, your group may opt to sit back and relax while chefs prepare tasty morsels specially for your group. In either case, Eataly’s offerings inspire attendees to learn the necessary skills to replicate the same techniques at home.

“We really explore the fun behind Italian cooking and the tradition behind it,” says Jocelyn Segovia, Eataly’s education and events manager.

Eataly also offers a virtual option with ingredient kits shipped anywhere in the country, allowing larger, scattered groups to pick up some new cooking skills through a Zoom class. eataly.com

LET THEM EAT CAKE VARIOUS LOCATIONS

TeamBonding, a national organization (with coordinators in 18 California cities) that orchestrates events to engage and connect groups, created Let Them Eat Cake as a way for teams to tune into their creative sides.

TeamBonding facilitates the Let Them Eat Cake experience from start to finish; clients are only responsible for choosing a venue (no kitchen is necessary). The sheet cakes are already baked to perfection and a wide range of decorating supplies are provided. Attendees, broken into teams and led by a trained pastry chef, focus on decorating and presentation. They have two hours to execute their visions, which might incorporate a company logo or a team mantra.

“It is just a unique way of coming together,” says David Goldstein, chief operating officer at TeamBonding. “It brings different skills together and gives you a way to share and showcase them. Then they can translate these skillsets into the office.”

If cake isn’t your forte, TeamBonding also provides in-person and virtual options for other tasty activities, including making gingerbread houses, cookie decorating, chocolate truffle making, and more. teambonding.com/programs/let-them-eat-cake

“For most of us, a hands-on experience is the best way to learn.”

–LAURIE ZALK, FOUNDER, COOK AND BAKE WITH LAURIE

Various homemade pies made by Cook and Bake with Laurie

Cookies Are Everything offers tailored experiences to meet the needs of your group.

A STEP TOWARD THE FUTURE

TOURISM LEADERS ACROSS THE GOLDEN STATE ADDRESS INDUSTRY CHANGES

by SHELLEY LEVITT

California Meetings + Events turned to the leading players from a dozen convention and visitors bureaus across California to get a meaningful picture of how the industry is faring in the state. These CVB executives have a clear-eyed view of both the big picture— like hotel occupancy—as well as what groups seek for their next event.

he big question being asked is: How has California group business rebounded since the start of the pandemic? The answer, it turns out, varies by region. “The economic recovery from COVID-19 has proven to be uneven,” says Laura Chmielewski, vice president for marketing and communications for Visit San Jose. “Our sector has accounted for more than half of all jobs lost in our region since the start of the pandemic and is still down 16,000 jobs.”

The reasons differ, Chmielewski says. “With many still working from home, business travel’s slow return is affecting us.” Large corporate events, especially in tech, she adds, have not returned. However, this loss can be a gain for planners who have longed to hold an event in the heart of Silicon Valley but required

more competitive pricing. “San Jose is diversifying its customer base, and this is creating opportunities for groups, meetings, and events that may have been priced out of our area in the past.” Chmielewski says. She adds that San Jose is applying hotel business improvement district funds to offset costs for clients, including offering free transportation, event promotion, marketing, and more.

In other parts of California, the meetings sector is flourishing. Take the desert cities, a region that experienced a housing boom as people left densely populated cities seeking more outdoor space at the start of the pandemic. “It has been positive, but the demand has been crazy,” says Carolina Viazcan, vice president of sales and destination experiences for Visit Greater Palm Springs.

Sandy beaches along the Ventura County Coast

PHOTO: VENTURA COUNTY COAST

This booming rebound of meetings cuts across topography—from desert to coastal regions. “Despite the challenges caused by the pandemic, our destination continues to drive demand for group business,” says Brian Tucker, president and CEO of Ventura County Coast. “Our miles of pristine beaches, famous California coastal weather, affordable rates, and welcoming community have helped our group business thrive.” Travel, in general, is stronger in Ventura County than in the state as a whole. “Based on recent data from Dean Runyan Associates, our travel economy in Ventura County grew by 56% compared to California increasing as a whole by 46%,” Tucker says.

Moving farther inland, the demand for meetings and events in Ontario is strong. “The biggest challenge we are facing right now is juggling a robust calendar for [specific] dates,” says Sue Oxarat, director of marketing and communications for Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The newest category we are focused on is sporting competitions—in fact, our Greater Ontario Sports & Entertainment Authority is ready to launch in a few months due to the demand.”

SMALLER MEETINGS, SHORTER BOOKING WINDOWS

While there’s still some hesitancy around planning conventions and large conferences, there’s a strong desire for small gatherings, says Linsey Gallagher, president and CEO of Visit Napa. “For the group of executives who hasn’t been out of Zoom purgatory in two years, Napa Valley has ideal outdoor spaces, best-in-class meeting facilities, and hands-on activities that make the destination ideal for collaboration and reconnecting.”

Groups are understandably skittish about making long-term commitments. Instead, booking just weeks ahead has become commonplace. “San Diego continues to see the extreme short-term nature of group business,” says Kavin Schieferdecker, chief sales officer at the San Diego Tourism Authority. In Greater Palm

Springs, Viazcan says, “Many hotels have expressed that contracts are being signed very short-term, so short-term that convention sales teams are starting to detail the program before the contract is signed.”

In a similar vein, with attendees unwilling to commit to events far in advance, planners are conservative about committing to overnight accommodations. “Visit Sacramento sales staff is finding that clients are cautious about their room-block commitments, and [are] reserving fewer rooms than before,” says Narimel Tarver, director of sales for Visit Sacramento.

A few destinations are experiencing both an embrace of smaller meetings and

a comfort with larger events. Scott Wilson, CEO of Visit Temecula Valley, says this is true for his region. “We’re seeing an increasing trend in our short-term rentals being used for corporate meetings and retreats, particularly in wine country,” he says. “Many small- to mid-size businesses want a unique team experience, particularly those with remote or hybrid workers who want to reconnect in a more informal setting.” However, he adds, “At our larger meeting destinations, which include Pechanga Resort & Spa and South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, bookings are close to pre-pandemic levels, and event sales are very strong, well into 2023.”

PHOTOS: GARY PAYNE;

VISIT TEMECULA VALLEY; RIVERSIDE CVB

Below: The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park amphitheater; Above right: Hot air balloon riding in Temecula; Below right: The Riverside Convention Center

“Venue options can include overlooking a golf course, Mission Bay, or the Pacific Ocean.”

–KAVIN SCHIEFERDECKER, CHIEF SALES OFFICER, SAN DIEGO TOURISM AUTHORITY

THE PANDEMIC LED TO LASTING TRENDS

Some innovations and accommodations that began out of necessity are proving enduring. “One of the innovative industry trends Coronado is seeing is ‘touchless’ technology,” says Danielle Rossetto, destination sales director for Discover Coronado. “There are now touchless hotel key cards, menus, and payment. Hotels and restaurants are both adapting to this trend.” Visit Sacramento’s Tarver sees a similar trend. “Once the meeting is in-market, planners are more inclined to use apps and less interested in brochures—QR codes are everywhere,” she says.

In addition, meeting outdoors is now strongly preferred. “Event producers are looking for more flexible spaces, a result of the rise of outdoor activities from the pandemic that will likely stay,” says Naz Sabripour, executive director of the Pasadena Convention Center.

Shaheen Roostai, executive director of Riverside Convention & Visitors Bureau and Riverside Sports Commission, agrees with this sentiment. “Social distancing and opportunity for open-air events remain top of mind for meeting planners,” she says. “Luckily, Riverside has many indoor-outdoor venues—the largest being the Riverside Convention Center. Its expansive outdoor private park-like setting allows groups to meet outdoors, walk around, and relax between meetings, or host events under the stars.”

Coastal destinations are especially well positioned to meet this demand for outdoor gatherings. “Coronado is lucky to have near-perfect weather yearround, ideal conditions for meetings and meals overlooking the Pacific Ocean or San Diego Bay,” says Rossetto. Schieferdecker strikes a similar note. “We’re seeing an increase in requests for outdoor

breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and receptions [in San Diego],” he says. “Venue options can include overlooking a golf course, Mission Bay, or the Pacific Ocean.”

Susan Valen, director of sales at Visit Huntington Beach, says that her destination, nicknamed Surf City, is an appealing option for large groups who may not be comfortable meeting in urban convention centers. “At the heart of Huntington Beach is the HB Collection, a set of four oceanfront resorts boasting a collective 1,400 guest rooms and 185,000 square feet of event space—offering a unique alternative to large, citywide events. … In Huntington Beach these are known as ‘beachwides,’” she says. “[The city’s] downtown footprint offers a contained 1-mile walkable [footpath] along the Pacific Coast Highway, with convenient access … to three entertainment districts and wide-open beaches.”

“Supporting the local community through food donations and volunteerism continues to be a focus point.”

–NAZ SABRIPOUR, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PASADENA CONVENTION CENTER

Napa Valley Vineyard; Above: San Jose City Hall

PHOTOS: VISIT SAN JOSE; VISIT NAPA VALLEY; (OPPOSITE) DISCOVER CORONADO BAY; VISIT SACRAMENTO

INCLUSION & SUSTAINABILITY

Diversity, equity, and inclusion have recently become a priority for planners. “Over the last two years, the city of Huntington Beach has prioritized inclusion by installing permanent infrastructure for locals and visitors with disabilities including sidewalk and trail widening, an all-inclusive beach playground, and Mobi-Mats at the beach,” says Valen. “Located on both sides of the Huntington Beach Pier, Mobi-Mats serve as a stable walkway that helps improve accessibility for those with limited mobility. Additionally, guests can enjoy activities such as adaptive surfing lessons, accessible beach bonfires, and rent-free beach wheelchairs from concession stands along the bike path.”

Sustainability is also being redefined. “One of the biggest shifts over the years is moving away from focusing on recycling goods and sustainable products and [moving] toward waste diversion and reducing waste,” says Sabripour of the Pasadena Convention Center. “On the venue side, we regularly make improvements on energy efficiency by utilizing available new technologies such as motion-sensor lighting and faucets and switching over to LED technology. The chairs are made from recycled materials, like seat belts. Supporting the local community through food donations and volunteerism continues to be a focus point.”

The city of San Jose upholds its dedication to sustainability as a point of distinction to groups, noting that this past June the San Jose City Council revised the city’s sustainability action plan and introduced a new one: Pathway to Carbon Neutrality by 2030.

“Team San Jose makes green meetings easy with comprehensive eco-friendly practices, products, and services,” Chmielewski says.

To cite one example, the San Jose McEnery Convention Center Ballroom’s upgrade to an ETC Arc Lighting System provides the most innovative and eco-conscious setup for exhibit hall lighting in North America, exceeding current industry standards and consuming 80% less power than the previous system.

Above: Bay Terrace patio in Coronado; Below and Left: SAFE Credit Union Convention Center Plaza in Sacramento

SOME

SOME

reach higher

Yosemite is one of the most spectacular winter settings on the planet and a great destination for a corporate retreat. Reward your team with a one-of-a-kind escape at Tenaya at Yosemite, a AAA Four Diamond-rated resort just two miles from Yosemite National Park. Way out here, you’ll enjoy 18,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, lodging at our resort, Explorer Cabins and spacious cottages and so many snow-covered moments.

Yosemite is one of the most spectacular winter settings on the and a great destination for a corporate retreat. Reward your team with a one-of-a-kind escape at Tenaya at Yosemite, a AAA Diamond-rated resort just two miles Yosemite National Park. Way here, you’ll enjoy 18,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, lodging at our resort, Explorer Cabins and spacious cottages and so many moments.

WHAT’S IN YOUR WALLET?

The pandemic has enhanced our awareness of safety precautions for physical health and in organizational wellness. With digital wallets, consumers have a contactless way to pay for, or access, their event necessities. They also enhance the overall customer experience through efficient, direct transactions from consumer to vendor or vice versa.

SAFETY and FLEXIBILITY are PRIORITY GROWTH by

the NUMBERS

The attention to safety influences how of consumers worldwide choose to make their transactions.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Financial Assistants, such as Clerkie and SoFi , monitor how your money is spent. Users can implement these smart aids to track bills, create effective financial strategies, and receive feedback on monetary goals.

Digital wallets are a way to compartmentalize a range of identification. From state IDs and passports to Social Security cards and medical records, users can create an all-in-one solution to ID management.

of users think that contactless payments using digital wallets are the safest bet for financial exchanges.

Super apps , like WeChat , provide users with access to financial resources beyond facilitating payments. Along with processing transactions, they offer other financial resources including tracking various accounts, loan offers, and investing.

Wearable IDs are most commonly in the form of a smartwatch and, more recently, key fobs. Brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung have created their own means of digitizing on-the-go personal data as a way for users to organize their financials beyond a leather wallet.

BACKGROUND IMAGE: ADOBE STOCK/NABUGU

A New South Bay Dining Destination

Sushi or steak? Groups visiting Manhattan Beach in Southern California’s South Bay will be able to have their choice of cuisine, thanks to the opening of Sushi Roku and BOA Steakhouse under one roof. The new dining destination, from the longstanding Los Angeles-based restaurant group Innovative Dining Group, was built from the ground up. Sushi Roku seats 100 guests and features a non-fungible token (NFT) art wall, with screens displaying digital art available for purchase. The larger BOA

Steakhouse seats 160 and offers a sprawling open-air patio ideal for groups. The dining room is anchored by a 12-seat bar and lined with cozy booths and wooden tabletops custom carved with curved edges—a nod to Manhattan Beach’s surfing history, which dates to the 1940s. The showstopping bar continues its nod to surf culture with its wood bar top that resembles retro longboards.

innovativedining.com

BURBANK WELCOMES LUXE HOTEL

» AFTER AN EXTENSIVE RENOVATION, Hotel Amarano, a AAA Four Diamond 132-room boutique property, has reopened its doors. Tucked in the city’s leafy Rancho Equestrian neighborhood, the hotel is near Warner Bros. and NBC studios and is a mile from Universal Studios Hollywood. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, then go for a spin on the property’s beach cruisers without signing a tab. The hotel’s 2,200 square feet of indoor-outdoor event space includes meeting rooms and parlors with private patios. For a swank reception, consider the top-floor 1,900-square-foot Chairman Suite, which boasts an outdoor terrace. The all-day FYC Bar & Kitchen is named for a phrase that’s ubiquitous in ads during awards season—“For Your Consideration.”

hotelamarano.com

OCEANFRONT OXNARD HOTEL REVEALS ITS MAKEOVER

Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton, opened its doors in October 2022, following a multimilliondollar reimagination and rebrand. Located in Oxnard between Malibu and Santa Barbara, Zachari Dunes is the only all-suite oceanfront resort in Southern California.

“As one of California’s only true oceanfront resorts, we are honored to introduce guests to Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach as a quintessential California getaway on California’s Gold Coast,” says General Manager Ben Ly. “With the resort’s unique position off the renowned Pacific Coast Highway, Zachari Dunes offers an authentic slice of the prized California lifestyle, where visitors can enjoy vibrant, spacious accommodations, epicurean delights, and authentic adventures from sea to sand and beyond. No doubt, the resort will become a beloved getaway for families, friends, or couples traveling to seek a relaxing beachfront respite.”

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 250-ALL-SUITE PROPERTY INCLUDE:

» A new signature restaurant, Ox and Ocean, that serves locally sourced produce and fresh seafood influenced by and celebrating the distinct flavors of American, Hispanic, and Asian cuisines alongside craft cocktails, beers, and local wines.

» Henry’s Sundries & Gear Rental, a fullservice storefront in the lobby offering complimentary gear including bicycles, boogie boards, GoPros, longboards, hoverboards, and more.

» More than 23,000 square feet of upgraded event space set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the golden dunes of Mandalay Beach. Indoor spaces include a variety of venues for team meetings, corporate retreats, and large conferences, while outdoor spaces, including two oceanfront venues—the 3,000-square-foot Playa Vista Lawn and Mandalay Beach —serve as idyllic backdrops for special events, networking mixers, and team-building opportunities.

Refreshed Montage Laguna Beach Offers Chauffeured Perks

Montage Laguna Beach, the flagship property of the Montage Hotels & Resorts brand, will unveil a full renovation of its meeting spaces in January 2023, just in time for the property’s 20th anniversary. This renovation includes refreshing all 14,500plus square feet of indoor spaces with new flooring, color palette, furnishings, lighting, catering, cooking facilities, and more, to fully enhance the Californian beachside luxury look and feel.

As a treasured perk, Montage Laguna Beach also offers business travelers an exclusive partnership with Cadillac. Business guests can take advantage of complimentary, chauffeured transportation within the Laguna Beach area, or enjoy the Ride & Drive program, hopping into the driver’s seat during their stay.

montagehotels.com

MASTRO’S OCEAN CLUB OPENS IN DOWNTOWN

LA

» MASTRO’S RESTAURANTS marks its ninth California location with the opening of Mastro’s Ocean Club in downtown Los Angeles, just steps away from L.A. Live and Crypto.com Arena (formerly the Staples Center). The 14,000-square-foot space features a main dining room with more than 7,000 wine bottles lining the walls, and an outdoor terrace for guests to enjoy alfresco dining. Mastro’s Ocean Club can seat up to 350 in the main dining room. Additionally, three private dining rooms for special events are offered for parties of 40 to 100 guests, and full restaurant buyouts are available.

“Californians know our brand and know the exceptional service they will receive in our restaurants,” says Mark Levy, Mastro’s president and COO. “We are thrilled to expand our footprint to downtown LA. Being seconds away from two of the city’s major event centers, we look forward to serving locals and travelers from around the world.”

Specializing in fresh seafood and steakhouse fare, the new restaurant’s high-end menu features a 2-foot-tall raw seafood tower, lobster mashed potatoes, Wagyu and Kobe beef, and a 33-ounce “chef’s cut” ribeye. Mastro’s also has a “strict upscale dress code” that does not allow athletic apparel, beachwear, or gym attire.

mastrosrestaurants.com

A Lively Day of the Dead

Members of Meeting Professionals International Southern California Chapter (MPISCC) gathered at Hotel Maya, a Doubletree by Hilton property in Long Beach, for their annual FUNdrasier event in October 2022. This year’s theme was Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

“This is one of our most anticipated events of the year, where friends and colleagues gather together for a fun evening supporting the chapter. We could not have made it happen without our wonderful members, event partners, and annual sponsors,” says Amy Zelinsky, MPISCC president, and founder and executive producer of A to Z Meetings & Events.

1. Clockwise from top left: DeShawn Wynn, Chelsea Crowe, Kelly Feeney, Mai Lim, Nicole Khastoo, Debra Mategrano, Amy Zelinsky 2. Raffle prizes and gift bags provided by MPISCC event sponsors 3. Strolling magician Richard Rumble 4. Nick Reid, Mariana Vona, Imelda Bermudez 5. Maria Anderson, Cherryl Brazier 6. Mariles Krok, James Robinson, John Todoro, AnaLaura Becerra, Suzy Kay 7. Beverages provided by Hotel Maya 8. DJ Lee Dyson

To have your meeting or event photos featured, contact achristensen@greenspring.com

Purposeful Giving

Lauri Pastrone elevates corporate gifting to transform lives.

BY SHELLEY LEVITT

Untold dollars are spent every year on gifts like water bottles or phone chargers stamped with a company’s logo. Lauri Pastrone founded Peace by Piece International in 2017 to provide an alternative to this model—gifts that are memorable for the recipient, show social responsibility on the part of the giver, and are life-changing for their creators.

Pastrone was working in market research for the tech industry and volunteering for the nonprofit organization Women for Women International when she visited war-ravaged communities in Rwanda, Kosovo, and Bosnia. It was here that she met women who were selling their handmade goods to support their struggling families. “I landed back home in Silicon Valley and saw all this wealth, opulence, and success. I thought, ‘How do I build some kind of bridge between these talented women who just need a second chance and these Silicon Valley companies that gift like crazy.’ That’s where the journey began,” she says.

Today, Peace by Piece has partnerships with 40 artisan communities around the world. “We work with existing nonprofit organizations and social enterprises that are on the ground, helping women and men get on their feet again,” she says. Peace by Piece supports these underserved communities by purchasing their products, many of which are handmade by women and men who were incarcerated, trafficked, homeless, or gang members, as well as survivors of other violent conflicts.

“These communities represent hundreds if not thousands of individuals,” Pastrone says. “Our mission goes beyond giving back, say 1% of profits. Instead, we directly provide dignified labor and training in a safe place so people can leave the programs equipped with the life and job skills to find well-paying jobs.”

Whether a gift is the Not Your Mother’s PB&J gourmet basket, which benefits the LA-based Homeboy Industries gang rehabilitation program, or the leather laptop bag crafted by artisans in Rwanda, each comes with a story card about the person who made it. “The gift may not last forever, but people hold on to those cards,” Pastrone says. “What we hear a lot is that the most meaningful part of the gift was reading the story behind it.”

PHOTO: LAURI PASTRONE

PHOTO: VISIT JACKSON HOLE

ALASKA

The Coolest Chillouts

Alyeska Resort

Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, Alaska, completed the first phase of the state’s only Nordic spa, offering three hot pools, three cold pools, a sauna, a wellness bistro, and massage services, all surrounded by the northernmost rainforest. alyeskaresort.com

Borealis Basecamp

Known for its glass-domed igloo accommodations and aurora-viewing opportunities, and located 25 miles from Fairbanks, Alaska, Borealis Basecamp is now open in both summer and winter. There are five new “cubes” with floor-to-ceiling windows for additional lodging. borealisbasecamp.net

Camp Denali

Now operating as a fly-in lodge through 2023, Camp Denali in Alaska’s Denali National Park & Preserve dates to 1952 and has 19 guest cabins and a main lodge. Camp Denali offers activities led by staff naturalists and schedules guest speakers. campdenali.com

ARIZONA

DESERT SUNSETS PRAIRIE-STYLE

Looking for something a little different to plug your group into? Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the former winter home and laboratory of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It offers Sunsets and Sips the second and fourth Thursdays from October through May, and a Wellness Series on the first Saturday and the third Tuesday of every month, featuring activities like yoga, tai chi, meditation, and hiking. A wide variety of spaces is also available to rent. franklloydwright.org

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) ALYESKA RESORT / KRISTIAN IREY; BOREALIS BASECAMP / THE NOMADIC PEOPLE; JOCELYN PRIDE; JEN WILBUR PHOTOS

Nordic Spa, Alyeska Resort Camp Denali

Borealis Basecamp

Sunsets and Sips, Taliesen West

MONTANA

NEW VENUES IN KALISPELL

Flathead Field in Kalispell, Montana, is the new home for the city’s Pioneer Baseball League team, the Glacier Range Riders. Opened in June, the venue features 2,500 seats as well as 12 luxury suites and picnic party areas available for games and private events. gorangeriders.com

The 58,000-square-foot Wachholz College Center, completed in fall 2022 at Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell, has a 1,000-seat performance and lecture hall and a multipurpose activity complex. The complex features a fitness center, gymnasium, art gallery, recital hall, and outdoor amphitheater. All spaces are available for meetings and events. fvcc.edu

Elevated Spaces in Elevated Places

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole introduced the results of a major renovation. All suites, guest rooms, and public hallways were fully refreshed with subtle colors and earth elements such as woods and metals. The room and suite renovations include all new furniture, artwork, lighting, wall and floor coverings, private bars, and work areas. fourseasons.com/jacksonhole

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City added 700 guest rooms in Utah’s capital city upon opening in October. Located adjacent to the Salt Palace Convention Center downtown, the 25-story property features 60,000 square feet of meeting space, a broadcast lounge, and four distinct dining venues. hyatt.com

After undergoing a complete renovation, the 179-room Sierra Nevada Resort in Mammoth Lakes, California, relaunched in November. The property features more than 7,800 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space and 10 cabins, as well as 20 new four-bedroom villas that will debut this May. thesierranevadaresort.com

CALIFORNIA

Palisades Tahoe Introduces  Base to Base Gondola

Operating for the second season under its new name, Palisades Tahoe is debuting its Base to Base Gondola that connects the two valleys of the resort next to the town of Olympic Valley, California . The launch makes Palisades Tahoe one of the largest ski resorts in North America with 6,000 skiable acres and a full spectrum of lifts, terrain, dining, and meeting venues. Traversing 2.4 miles, the ride takes 16 minutes. palisadestahoe.com

Flathead Field Wachholz College Center

MOUNTAINS

Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) GLACIER RANGE RIDERS; DISCOVER KALISPELL; HYATT REGENCY SALT LAKE CITY; FOUR SEASONS RESORT AND RESIDENCES JACKSON HOLE; BLAKE KESSLER; (OPPOSITE) TAOS SKI VALLEY

Sustainability at Taos Ski Valley

In tandem with becoming certified carbon neutral by Climate Impact Partners in August, Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico has several sustainability initiatives underway. For example, chairlifts and snowmaking equipment use solar power, the resort is electrifying its fleet of vehicles (including snowmobiles, cars, and a snowcat), a food composter diverts more than 90% of food waste, and single-use plastics have been eliminated. skitaos.com

From top: Taos Ski Valley staff learn about the new food composter; Electric vehicle charging stations outside the resort’s snowmaking headquarters

A Steinway Brought to You

» ESTABLISHED IN 2016 in Portland, Oregon, by classical pianist Hunter Noack, In a Landscape: Classical Music in the Wild replaces the traditional concert hall with America’s stunning vistas. A 9-foot Steinway grand piano is transported on a flatbed trailer to national parks, working ranches, farms, historical sites, and urban greenspaces for concerts by Noack that connect people with the surrounding scenery. The music is transmitted to concertgoers via wireless headphones to address the acoustical challenges of performing in the wild and allow participants to wander around. In a Landscape is available for corporate events. inalandscape.org

PHOTO: ARTHUR HITCHCOCK

ROOM TO INSPIRE

Welcome to Colorado Springs, where our wide-open spaces, 300 days of endless blue skies and stunning natural scenery serve as the backdrop to your meetings and events. Discover unique venues, first-tier amenities and an array of properties. From countless trails and open spaces to delicious local dining, Colorado Springs has everything you need to create a memorable experience for your attendees. Here, you’ll find room to inspire, innovate, connect and re-energize.

Learn more at VisitCOS.com/meet

Your Basecamp

To Adventure. Located on the southside of Idaho Falls, the Mountain America Center will be a game changing amenity for Eastern Idaho. Idaho Falls is the hub of Eastern Idaho. It is the largest metropolitan area between Salt Lake City and the

Canadian border and a major jumping off point for tourism in the Greater Yellowstone area. It is also a growing center of economic activity: since 2000, the population of the Idaho Falls area has grown a whopping thirty-one percent.

FACILITY

• 11,000 sq, ft. banquet and conference space.

• Flexibility to be split into five separate meeting rooms.

• Accommodate sessions ranging from 500 to 5000 people.

• State-of-the-art HVAC system.

COMMUNITY

• Upwards of 2,800 hotel rooms.

• Family-friendly.

• Scenic River Walk and Falls.

Get Crafty

BY BETH BUEHLER

» WHEN WE sent out an inquiry looking for craft breweries located in the Mountain West that have meeting and event space, our curiosity cup was filled to the brim. Not only are these gathering places delivering creative brews, but they are also renovating historic buildings, occupying former theaters, operating scratch kitchens, and offering live music and events.

According to the Brewers Association in Boulder, Colorado, the top three states in the Mountain West with the highest number of craft breweries are: California (931—No. 1), Washington (437—No. 4), and Colorado (428—No. 5).

CALIFORNIA

Figueroa Mountain Brewing is named after the popular hiking peak that dominates the Santa Ynez Valley of California. On the brewery campus in Buellton (the company’s original taproom), a private mezzanine bar area, large outdoor patio, and stage are available for booking, and a private events concierge can help customize offerings to match clients’ needs. There is a full menu of gastropub fare and delicious beers. figmtnbrew.com

COLORADO

The Bakers’ Brewery in Silverthorne is a scratch kitchen for all menu items, including buns, pretzels, and breads for sandwiches. The semiprivate Brewers’ Corner seats up to 35 and looks down on the brewing operation, and in the summer larger groups can spill over onto the patio/biergarten. Bonuses for groups are live music two nights a week during busy times and three hotels across the street. thebakersbrewery.com

Located downtown in an 1892 stone building, Stronghouse Telluride Brew Pub has a variety of beers on tap and a menu full of comfort food and pub favorites. The entire space is available for event use and can hold up to 50 people seated at tables and 100 for buffet-style or passed appetizers. A covered, heated patio is also available, weather permitting.  stronghousebrewpub.com

IDAHO

It is especially easy to toast the end of a day of meetings in Boise, which has two breweries that work well for groups. At

Western Collective Beer’s downtown location, Western Proper, the dining room, parlour, and patio can be rented individually or opt for a buyout of the entire facility. Not only is there great beer and a full bar and food menu, the parlour’s game lounge features mini bowling, Skee-Ball, mini basketball, air hockey, and more. westernproper.com

Lost Grove Brewing is just off the Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile treelined pathway. The patio features an outdoor bar and holds over 200 for large events, while a private room that can fit 40 is ideal for smaller gatherings.

PHOTOS: (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) WESTERN PROPE / JOSHUA MICHAEL JOHNSON; THE BAKERS’ BREWERY; STRONGHOUSE TELLURIDE BREW PUB; FIGUEROA MOUNTAIN BREWING; FRONTIER BREWING CO.

Tap into the cool vibe of local breweries for refreshing places to meet and celebrate.

Sharing Cinnamon Roll French Toast at Western Proper in Boise, Idaho

Tours are available with patio rentals, and there is plenty of craft beer and handmade pizza, salads, and appetizers to feed hungry appetites. Lost Grove is the first brewery in Idaho to receive B Corp Certification. lostgrovebrewing.com

MONTANA

A Kalispell staple since 2018, Bias Brewing has now moved into a larger space that can accommodate up to 35 guests. A variety of local beer is on tap, including Bias creations, and there is a full menu offered by the on-site Heck’s Kitchen. biasbrewing.com

NEW MEXICO

Rio Bravo Brewing in Albuquerque transformed the 1949 Firestone Co. building into a modern tap room with a large bar, game room, biergarten with a stage, patio, and a large brewing area with glass windows to watch brewers in action. Upstairs, the Barrel Room for meetings and events holds up to 80 seated, while the biergarten can host up to 400. Rio Bravo’s scratch kitchen prepares a full menu, 24 tap handles pour a wide range of beer styles, and craft root beer and cream soda are available. Brewery tours that include a

beer sample served at the end can also be booked. riobravobrewing.com

WYOMING

Frontier Brewing Co. recently moved into downtown Casper’s historic Fox Theater, which provides the venue with great programming opportunities and beyond-thenorm brewery gathering spaces. Groups can buy out the entire facility, rent the Frontier Arena that accommodates up to 87 guests, or book the large auditorium for up to 180. Enjoy small-batch craft beers, bring in your own food, or take advantage of catering options. frontierbrewingcompany.com

Clockwise from top left: The main bar at The Baker’s Brewery; Pouring a draft at Stronghouse Telluride Brew Pub; Figueroa Mountain Brewing in Buellton, California; The tap room at Frontier Brewing Co.

Classic THE CHARM OF Ski Towns

There is no formula for destinations like Sun Valley, Steamboat Springs, and Jackson Hole—simply put, no one can argue with the fact these are mountain classics.

hat defines a classic?

In the case of ski towns, it is typically an equation that begins with mining and ranching communities in the late 19th or early 20th centuries, historic downtowns, ski villages, and outstanding terrain for skiing, snowboarding, and all sorts of outdoor activities. Plus, they are a little hard to get to, which keeps out the masses, and are populated with locals dedicated to protecting their heritage.

Jackson Hole, WYOMING

SAMPLING OF: Lodging Ideas »

Four

Seasons Resort and Residences

Jackson Hole » Hotel Terra Jackson Hole » Lodge at Jackson Hole » Snow King Resort » Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa » Virginian Lodge » Wort Hotel

Attractions

» The Jackson Center for the Arts » Jackson Hole Mountain Resort » National Museum of Wildlife Art » Mill Island Ranch » Snow King Mountain » Walk Festival Hall

It is important to know that Jackson Hole refers to not one town but the 42-mile-long valley between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges in northwestern Wyoming.

Jackson was incorporated in 1914 and is the largest town in Jackson Hole, while Teton Village is the area at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and is 12 miles from downtown Jackson.

Because the soil was not ideal for raising crops, homesteaders ranched rather than farmed, and tourism took hold in the area with the establishment of dude ranches. Later, skiing entered the mix when Snow King Mountain in downtown Jackson evolved from the town’s first official ski hill that followed a trail built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1936.

Jackson Hole and the Greater Teton region also offer more than 100 Nordic skiing trails and 40 fat bike trails, all listed along with outfitters, trail conditions, and more at jhnordic.com.

Don’t miss walking under the elk antler arches on each corner of the town square and stopping by the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and Silver Dollar Saloon for music and dancing.

FROM A PLANNER

SMI Travel of Bradenton, Florida, has brought meeting and incentive groups to Jackson Hole since the 1980s. Guests stay in Jackson at hotels that exude the town’s personality and provide easy access to shopping, dining, and nightlife.

“For our smaller groups, we choose the historic Wort Hotel, located right on the town square and with nice meeting space options,” says Ashley Sellmer Nelson, national sales representative for SMI Travel. “For our larger groups, we choose the western elegance of the Rustic Inn. The individual cabins are just perfect for a group, and we like to buy out the Spa Suite building for our VIPs or executives.”

In the second scenario, the lodging at Rustic Inn is paired with the meeting and event space at the Wort.

Jackson Hole also scores big with attendees due to the activities, attractions, and ranching culture. “Not to be missed is the National Museum of Wildlife Art,” Nelson says. “If you are lucky, you might find one of the local photographers home and available for your event. Also, no trip is complete without a visit to the Mill Iron Ranch.”

In winter, SMI Travel groups snowmobile through Yellowstone National Park, ski, tube, dog-sled, and go on wildlife safaris. Summer favorites include whitewater rafting, all-terrain adventures, and fly-fishing.

jacksonhole.com | jacksonholechamber.com | snowking.com | visitjacksonhole.com

Left to right:

view of Jackson; a powder day at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Steamboat Springs,

Legend has it that French fur trappers thought the spring along the Yampa River sounded like a steamboat, resulting in the name Steamboat Springs, founded in 1900. The town remained isolated until the arrival of the railroad in 1908. Ranching and western culture remain especially strong here, and the vibe has expanded to include a tourism infrastructure that also involves skiing, hot springs, and outdoor adventure.

Established in 1915, Howelsen Hill is Colorado’s oldest ski area in continuous use, while the larger Steamboat Resort officially opened in 1963. Both continue to evolve with Howelsen Hill introducing a snow-tubing area and lift this season, while Steamboat Resort is debuting the second phase of its $200 million multiyear transformation that includes Skeeter’s Ice Rink, The Range Food & Drink Hall, and a second gondola featuring a new beginner learning area.

For an additional adrenaline rush this winter, consider Bridgestone Winter Driving School and Steamboat Powdercats,

COLORADO

From a Planner

The Children’s Hospital of Colorado Burn Camps Program has hosted its five-night Winter Burn Camp in Steamboat Springs for more than 10 years. It’s a gathering of more than 30 young burn survivors, ages 13-18, from around the country.

“We continue to partner with The Steamboat Grand, year after year, for a myriad of reasons,” says Alec Rhodes, program director for Winter Burn Camp. “First, the location and access cannot be beat. The proximities to the mountain, rental shops, and ski school make it easy and efficient for a group to maximize the skiing and snowboarding experience. Second, and probably most important, the staff is incredible. Lastly, the meeting rooms are very functional for the size of our group.”

The group books two meeting rooms on the first level of the property—one for meals and the other for meetings—and five to seven condominium-style guest rooms.

“Steamboat is the perfect place for our group to gather. Our folks are coming from all corners of the country,” Rhodes says. “Steamboat provides a unique and memorable experience for everyone.”

one of Colorado’s oldest snowcat skiing operations. To get a taste of the West, attend the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo and stop by F.M. Light & Sons, a fifthgeneration western retailer.

Additional happenings on the what’s-new list is the opening of The Boat Yard food truck venue and The Commons food hall, and the expansion of the beverage scene with Routt Distillery and The Hop House.

A light-filled night at Steamboat Resort

PHOTO: STEAMBOAT RESORT

Ketchum/Sun

Valley, IDAHO

By the early 1880s, Ketchum was a booming mining town, famous for its healing hot springs. When the silver market collapsed in 1890, most of the town’s residents departed and sheep became the area’s leading industry. By 1918, the sheep population reached 2.65 million, making Ketchum second to Sydney, Australia, for sheep exports worldwide.

Two decades later, things began to change in a big way. Austrian Count Felix Schaffgotsch arrived in the valley in early 1936 after being hired by former Union Pacific chair Averell Harriman to scout the western United States. His mission? To find the best place to build a destination ski resort. Harriman purchased the 3,888-acre Brass Ranch near Ketchum, and in less than a year, Sun Valley Lodge was completed, and Union Pacific engineers invented the first chairlifts in the world for the resort. The town of Sun Valley was incorporated in 1947 and quickly became a hideaway for notable celebrities like author Ernest Hemingway, who is buried in neighboring Ketchum

Located less than 2 miles apart, Ketchum encompasses the historic mining town grid and is the primary town for the area, while Sun Valley is made up of the resort village, golf courses, and residential neighborhoods.

From a Planner

TMN Events provides both destination management company services and corporate event planning for regional, national, and international clients visiting Sun Valley and Ketchum.

“Sun Valley Resort has the best and most comprehensive meeting space in the valley, especially for large groups,” says Patrick Moloney, owner of TMN Events based in Boise. “Although Sun Valley is no longer a best-kept American destination secret, it is still one of the most unique and beautiful mountain destinations in the United States.”

The wide variety of available activities and culinary options provides a wealth of options for TMN Events’ groups.

“Obviously, alpine skiing in the winter is the main draw but there is also Nordic skiing, snowshoe excursions, and snowmobiling nearby. Summer activities include golf, fly-fishing, whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain biking, local cruiser biking, local tours, and photography classes to name a few,” he says. “Off-site dining is also a draw with many excellent and diverse restaurants in the Ketchum and Sun Valley area.”

Shopping in Sun Valley

PHOTO: SUN VALLEY RESORT / IDARODO MEDIA PHOTO

2023

Casinos & Gaming

Across the United States, casinos furnish planners with one-stop shopping for their meeting and event needs.

PHOTO: ADOBE / STUDIO ROMANTIC

Casinos Do It All

By Todd R. Berger

At the beginning of 1978, casinos could only be found in Nevada—no other state had legal gaming. On May 26, 1978, Resorts Casino Hotel opened in Atlantic City, New Jersey, a year and a half after the state’s voters approved a referendum legalizing gambling in the city to bolster the economy in the area.

A year later, the Seminole Tribe opened the first Native American-owned casino in the United States, the Seminole Classic Casino Hollywood in Hollywood, Florida. Initially a bingo hall, it soon expanded to include gaming machines and poker. During the 1980s, as Native American casinos spread, several state governments pursued court cases to try to shut them down. The tribes argued in court that their status as sovereign nations (per an 1831 U.S. Supreme Court decision classifying Native American tribes as “domestic dependent” nations) made them exempt from state laws against gambling. Finally, in

1987, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in California v. Cabazon Band of Mission Indians (480 U.S. 202 [1987]) that gambling on tribal lands did not fall under the legal jurisdiction of the states. The next year, Congress passed the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which allowed tribes to open casinos on tribal land in states that already permitted legalized gambling. By 1996, 25 states had legal casinos.

Around the same time period, the Mirage opened in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1989. This ground-breaking casino resort was the largest hotel in the world when it opened, commencing the era of casinos making money through nongambling activities, including, at The Mirage, shows featuring white tigers and the magic of Siegfried & Roy, a volcano, and an aquarium. The idea was to make customers feel like they already struck it rich with a Polynesian theme, ostentatious opulence, and free food. Built by Steve Wynn and today owned by Hard Rock International, the Mirage fundamentally changed the Las Vegas Strip.

Within a few years, more spectacular, themed resorts appeared up and down the Strip and nearby, including Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino, and Paris Las Vegas, both owned by Caesars Entertainment.

The latest style of casino resorts, the rise of Native American gaming, and the spread of gambling across the country ushered in a new era of casinos that provided the perfect setting for gatherings and conventions of all varieties.

Today, 44 states (all except Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Utah) have casino gaming resorts that cater to meetings and events. Almost anywhere in the United States you wish to meet, there is likely a casino resort that can fulfill—and exceed—all your event needs.

Agua Caliente Casinos

Cathedral City, Palm Springs, and Rancho Mirage, California

Founded: 2001 (Rancho Mirage), 2003 (Palm Springs), and 2020 (Cathedral City)

Size: 23,500 Capacity: 1,000 aguacalientecasinos.com

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Founded: 2003 Size: 49,000 square feet Capacity: 3,500 borgata.mgmresorts.com

Caesars Entertainment

Founded: 1937 Caesars Entertainment has more than 60 casino resorts in 17 states and 2 million square feet of meeting space across its destinations. Event spaces include the new CAESARS FORUM on the Las Vegas Strip, which has the two largest pillarless ballrooms in the world. caesars.com

Spotlight on Casino Resorts

ilani Ridge eld, Washington

Founded: 2017

Size: 30,000 square feet Capacity: 2,500 ilaniresort.com

e Mirage

Las Vegas, Nevada

Founded: 1989 Size: 90,000 square feet Capacity: 8,650

Monarch Casino Resort Spa Black Hawk, Colorado

Founded: 1997 Size: 5,000 square feet Capacity: 250 monarchblackhawk.com

MotorCity Casino Hotel Detroit, Michigan

Founded: 1999 Size: 67,500 square feet Capacity: 10,000 motorcitycasino.com

Pechanga Resort Casino Temecula, California

Founded: 2002 Size: 274,500 square feet Capacity: 7,000 pechanga.com

Quechan Casino Resort Winterhaven, California

Founded: 1996 Size: 20,000 square feet Capacity: 2,300 playqcr.com

Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City, New Jersey

Founded: 1978 Size: 64,000 square feet Capacity: 1,350 resortsac.com

Seminole Classic Casino Hollywood Hollywood, Florida

Founded: 1979 Size: 120,000 square feet Capacity: 5,000 seminolehardrockhollywood.com

Sky Ute Casino Resort Ignacio, Colorado

Founded: 2008

Size: 19,000 Capacity: 2,000 skyutecasino.com

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort Mount Pleasant, Michigan

Founded: 1998 Size: 70,000 square feet Capacity: 13,000 soaringeaglecasino.com

We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort Fort McDowell, Arizona

Founded: 2006 Size: 25,000 square feet Capacity: 2,000 wekopacasinoresort.com

Wildhorse Resort & Casino Pendleton, Oregon

Founded: 1995 Size: 11,000 square feet Capacity: 1,000 wildhorseresort.com

MOTORCITY CASINO HOTEL MONARCH CASINO RESORT SPA

PECHANGA RESORT CASINO

The Cash Cow

From slot machines and blackjack tables to horse races and bingo, there are a variety of ways to gamble. As a means of entertainment for some, casinos are an unconventional-yet-effective way to generate immense revenue, some of which is funneled back into society.

Of course, the success of a casino depends on gamblers’ confidence in their luck and their willingness to wager. Apparently, people are indeed increasingly confident in their abilities as, according to the American Gaming Association, gambling revenue has risen 21% since 2019, reaching a lofty record of $53 billion in 2022. Nearly $30 billion of that revenue came from 460 tribal casinos across 28 states. With so much money funneling into casinos, taxes on casino revenue are a primary financial resource supporting state and local programs.

By Ava Diaz

Gaming wasn’t always a catalyst for societal advancement. Following the 1929 stock market crash and the construction of Hoover Dam beginning in 1931, Nevada’s economy was in dire need of economic stimulation. Operating as a small railroad town, Las Vegas was soon gaining traction from the infiltration of construction workers moving to Boulder City, 25 miles down the road, to build the dam. Gambling trips to Las Vegas became routine for workers. With

MGM Resorts International’s New York-New York Hotel & Casino under construction in 1996 in Las Vegas, Nevada

increased popularity and a sudden cash flow, Nevada’s government legalized gambling in 1931 to quickly generate funding to restabilize the state’s finances. Gambling was much later legalized in select states across the country.

To regulate the gambling cash flow, state and federal governments intervened in both commercial and tribal gaming. For tribal gaming, the U.S. Congress passed the Indian Gaming

Regulatory Act of 1988 to create a legal basis for the operation of casinos (in states that allowed gaming within their borders). The tax revenue from these establishments helped fuel steady employment, provide consistent cash flow for reservations, and create lively regional attractions. Some tribes with state compacts pay fees based on their revenue to state and local governments. As for commercial casinos, many states

implemented taxes based on gross revenue (after winner payouts) to maximize casino money rerouted into state coffers.

To combat a negative backlash over states’ revenue from gambling, 23 out of the 24 commercial gambling states designate a portion of their casino tax revenue to fund research and treatment for gambling addiction, according to the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies in Washington, D.C. Many commercial gaming states also use some of their tax revenue to fund public programs and services, including education, economic development, infrastructure, and the fine arts (anywhere from 20% to 90% of state funding goes toward state art agencies in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, and West Virginia).

For tribes with state compacts, the breakdown of contributions awarded to the state varies based on need. The State of Arizona, for example, allocates 88% of its tribal gaming revenue to infrastructure improvement for schools, trauma and emergency care, wildlife conservation, and tourism. The remaining 12% is distributed to community service and public safety programs in cities and counties of the tribes’ choosing. Though the allocation of funds varies from state to state, the influx of money that filters through casinos provides states with a constant stream of revenue.

At casinos, there is fun to be had by all. Gambling, to some extent, can benefit individuals as a means of entertainment and the potential for winnings. Coming full circle, the money spent can work its way back into their lives through improved services and renovations of sites made possible by casino revenue.

1950

Above: Hoover Dam under construction in 1936, before Lake Mead filled. Left: Golden Nugget Las Vegas Hotel & Casino on Fremont Street in

The Green Future of Casinos Is Now

By Todd R. Berger

Thirty miles north of Las Vegas, Nevada, among the Joshua trees and greater roadrunners of the Mojave Desert, 323,000 solar panels covering the equivalent of 484 football fields glisten in the sun. This 100-megawatt solar array provides 90% of the electricity for 13 MGM Resorts International casinos and 36,000 hotel rooms in Las Vegas, including ARIA Resort & Casino, MGM Grand Las Vegas, and Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino. Away from the glittering lights of the Las Vegas Strip, the sunshine collected by these panels spotlight a sustainable future for casinos worldwide.

MGM Resorts International solar array outside Las Vegas, Nevada PHOTOS:

Many casino properties are making sustainability a priority. Caesars Entertainment repurposes and recycles just about everything at its casinos, including used soap, towels, and dice. Caesars’ hotels also conserve energy by turning off lights and air conditioning in unoccupied rooms. Visitors to Caesars Palace, Flamingo Las Vegas, and Paris Las Vegas who order a glass of Zinfandel are served a vintage directly from a keg rather than a bottle.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides guidelines on its website that focus on green initiatives for tribal casinos, and, certainly, many across the country embrace sustainability. Chumash Casino Resort, operated by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians in Santa Barbara County, California, has sharply cut electricity usage in its complexes. The tribe built new facilities in 2004 that included doublewalled insulation, a reflective rooftop, and a wastewater treatment plant that reclaims water; the improvements saved the tribe 18% in energy costs. Similarly, Michigan’s Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel implemented skylights to provide natural light and replace electric lighting as early as 2008, reducing energy use by a stunning 50%.

As MGM Resorts International did outside Las Vegas, many tribal casinos also turn to the sun for energy generation and to efficient lighting for energy conservation. In addition to being the first solar-powered casino in Southern California, Harrah’s Resort Southern California—operated by the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians—has a wastewater treatment plant that generates reclaimed water for cleaning and irrigation, and a biodigester that turns food waste into water. At many casinos, tribal or not, much more efficient LED lights are largely replacing incandescent bulbs, not an insignificant trend given casinos’ tendency to use lights on everything from slot machines to video displays.

Some casinos take measures to improve life for other inhabitants of their region. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians in California— with casinos in Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, and Cathedral City—partners with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to monitor endangered peninsular bighorn sheep through data collected from high-frequency collars. The Tulalip Tribes in Washington, which run two casinos north of Seattle, operate a salmon hatchery on tribal land that raises and releases 11.5 million juvenile salmon each year.

The tribes—including the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish, and other allied bands—also actively manage the habitat of the Salish Sea (including Puget Sound) to support several species of clams, shrimp, and Dungeness crabs.

The sustainability landscape for casinos has evolved dramatically in the last few decades. Many casinos now measure environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria alongside the financial bottom line. Often, casinos see setting ESG goals as essential to saving money and increasing profit. Those that do embrace sustainability will be able to thrive as society evolves toward a greener future.

Harrah’s Resort Southern California was the first casino in the southern part of the state to use solar power.

FIND THE PERFECT SETTING for your gathering at Agua Caliente Casinos. No ma er which of the three premier properties you choose—Rancho Mirage, Palm Springs, or Cathedral City—your event is sure to exceed expectations.

Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage has a variety of venues for your next event, including a 13,000-square-foot conference center that’s perfect for larger groups and a scenic outdoor event lawn, complete with dramatic views of the San Jacinto Mountains. For a more intimate venue, book the private Wine Room at The Steakhouse. Awarded four stars by Forbes Travel Guide, the renowned restaurant o ers gourmet steaks and seafood alongside fine wines.

Agua Caliente Palm Springs, in the heart of downtown, is where luxury meets laid-back. The Cascade Lounge is a swanky venue complete with a stage, dance floor, central bar, and elegant booth seating. The Steakhouse is also available for booking premier group dining.

Agua Caliente Cathedral City is the newest property in Agua Caliente’s collection. The 12,000-square-foot Agave Caliente Terraza is an outdoor entertainment space nestled among stunning skies and picturesque mountain views. Hosting your next corporate or private event there guarantees a unique experience.

BORGATA HOTEL CASINO & SPA in Atlantic City, New Jersey, is a top-of-theline destination to host meetings and events—with an added flare of excitement for everyone who a ends.

As the premier casino resort on the East Coast, Borgata is just a one-to-twohour drive away from Philadelphia or New York City, and the amenities will wow a endees in a variety of ways. Multiple slot machines and table games can be found on the casino floor to appeal to any gamers. The fine-dining outlets spread across the property can be reserved for a team meal a er a day of meetings and are sure to delight everyone’s taste buds. With skilled chefs across the property, catering for an event has never been easier.

Whether something grand or intimate is needed, Borgata’s event planners help select the ideal location and layout for each event. Business meetings, conventions, and trade shows can all be planned in one of the 11 secluded event spaces away from the casino floor that accommodate groups from 10 to 700. Each space is equipped with the latest technology, which is customizable. Borgata is equipped to make executing an event feel like hi ing the jackpot.

With more than 50 first-class properties spread throughout 20 destinations and 120 sales executives across the country, Caesars Entertainment’s vast empire promises not only a wealth of convenient options, but a commitment to provide unparalleled family-style services. From ideating an event to packing up on the last day, Caesars Entertainment ensures an easy, streamlined level of service to top off its continuously evolving collection of cutting-edge meeting spaces, unforgettable resorts, decadent restaurants, and more. Over the past year, Caesars Entertainment has shown concrete proof of its dedication to providing the best of the best, with massive new additions to its Las Vegas properties and beyond.

Part of the company’s latest evolution, CAESARS FORUM utilized its 550,000 square feet of conference space to host the 2022 NFL Draft, welcoming thousands of ecstatic sports fans. For the high-profile event, the FORUM created an enormous stage and stretched its outdoor space to include the nearby LINQ Promenade parking lot, helping to accommodate the massive audience. Located centrally amid 8,500 hotel rooms at Harrah’s Las Vegas, The LINQ, and Flamingo, CAESARS FORUM provides the two largest pillar-less ballrooms in the world, featuring modern design and flexibility.

The mecca of celebrity chef dining, Paris Las Vegas, welcomed a veritable constellation of star-studded restaurants this year. Sushi

legend Nobu Matsuhisa opened a second Las Vegas location of his eponymous Nobu restaurant at the resort. Next door, Bobby Flay debuted his fast-casual concept, Bobby’s Burgers, bringing a decadent take on burgers, milkshakes, and fries for guests on the go. Vanderpump à Paris—part of reality television icon Lisa Vanderpump’s portfolio—brought with it visions of an old Parisian courtyard. At the tail end of the summer, Martha Stewart’s first-ever dining concept, The Bedford, opened its doors.

In addition to huge new meeting spaces and decadent eateries, Caesars Entertainment has not forgotten to update the backbone of any stay: the accommodations. Harrah’s Las Vegas’ rooms and casino floor have undergone extensive renovations. Meanwhile, Bally’s Las Vegas is undergoing a complete transformation, from its exterior to its rooms and casino floor—preparing to reintroduce itself as Horseshoe Las Vegas by the end of 2022.

FROM HOSTING CONFERENCES and intimate meetings to epic concerts and worldclass entertainers, the ilani in Ridgefield, Washington, has the state-of-the-art facilities and expert staff to make any event a success. With 30,000 square feet of multiuse venue space, endless entertainment options, and a Four Diamond hotel coming in 2023, the area’s premier gaming, dining, entertainment, and meeting destination will help bring your event to the next level.

Equipped to accommodate groups and conventions of various sizes, the resort’s Cowlitz Ballroom can host a crowd of 2,500 for a variety of events. For a more intimate meeting space, the 650-square-foot Cedar Boardroom is perfect for private occasions. The Meeting and Entertainment Center is sure to create a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors.

The ilani is a unique gaming experience unlike any other in the Pacific Northwest, boasting a 100,000-square-foot gaming floor with nearly 3,000 slots and 75 gaming tables— something for everyone. With the casino nearby and pockets of entertainment throughout the resort, ilani provides a unique dining atmosphere—13 restaurant options encompassing fine dining, casual meals, bars, and quick bites for guests on the go.

Monarch Casino Resort Spa

MONARCH CASINO RESORT SPA in Black Hawk, Colorado, is a world-class destination that brings vibrancy to events of all varieties. The breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains with dramatic canyon views presents a unique experience for visitors. Monarch’s meticulous meeting planners are dedicated to flawless execution from the moment you arrive—whether hosting 3 or 250, the resort o ers easily configurable spaces, featuring state-of-theart amenities, scenic views, comfort, and elegance.

Twenty-three floors above Black Hawk, seek solace at Spa Monarch, a place of relaxation and rejuvenation in the form of unique treatment options and spaces—an escape from everyday life. Experience heart-pounding gaming action in the two-level casino area, featuring over 1,000 slot machines, 40 game tables, a live poker room, and the Sportsbook Lounge. The floor is always open, providing easy access to free-time activities.

Five on-site restaurants o er dining options to satisfy any pale e or occasion. For a contemporary atmosphere, enjoy modern Mexican Latin cuisine at Bistro Mariposa. For a luxurious, upscale dining experience, visit Monarch Chophouse. Twenty-Four 7 and The Bu et are perfect options for casual dining, while Java etc. is the place to grab a Starbucks co ee and a quick bite on the go.

Inspiring

FROM

CUTTING-EDGE

PRESENTATIONS to gala banquets, MotorCity Casino Hotel has the facilities to make the extraordinary happen for you. It’s the only place in Detroit that can o er sophisticated boardrooms, 67,500 square feet of flexible banquet and meeting space, and the state-of-the-art 1,500-seat Sound Board theater.

Guests at MotorCity enjoy luxury accommodations with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property, valet parking, and 24-hour fitness and business centers. Add a spa, great dining options, and live entertainment, and you have an incomparable place for meetings and events. MotorCity boasts award-winning meeting professionals, an acclaimed culinary sta , and a friendly and professional event team that will ensure that your meeting is flawlessly executed.

At MotorCity, you can work hard and play harder. When you step onto the awardwinning gaming floor, you’ll find 2,700 slot machines including the latest multi-line video and 5-reel slots, 59 table games, and a 12-table smoke-free Poker Room. Plus, the spacious, two-story FanDuel Sportsbook boasts eight be ing windows, 67 HDTVs, a sports ticker, 54 self-service IGT PlaySports be ing kiosks, multiple bars, and plenty of plush leather seating.

Don’t just meet—be moved by the high-powered hospitality of MotorCity Casino Hotel.

ESCAPE THE

BORED ROOM.

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M o t o r C i t y C a s i n o H o t e l a n d M o t o r C i t y C a s i n o H o t e l d e s i g n a r e t r a d e m a r k s o f D e t r o i t E n t e r t a i n m e n t , L L C © 2 0 2 2 D e t r o i t E n t e r t a i n m e n t , L L C A l l r i g h t s r e s e r v e d

Pechanga Resort Casino

951-770-8551 | pechanga.com

PECHANGA RESORT CASINO is nestled in Temecula’s picturesque Southern California Wine Country, the perfect place to stay and play with 1,090 beautifully appointed guest rooms. Guests are treated to exceptional entertainment, dining, and golf amid 24 hours of gaming excitement. The immense 200,000-plus-square-foot casino features more than 5,400 slots and 130 gaming tables. Encompassing 40,000 square feet is Pechanga’s event center—capable of dividing into five sections for a variety of events.

A world of culinary delights awaits at Pechanga’s award-winning restaurants. Featuring a variety of international cuisines, from fine dining to quick bites for guests on the go, the resort houses eight restaurants and a full-featured food court.

Find relaxation at Spa Pechanga: a two-level, 25,000-square-foot spa featuring 17 treatment rooms, a private pool with cabana massage service, state-of-the-art fitness studio, two indoor hydrotherapy pools, and hair and nail salons. The Cove, Pechanga’s 4.5-acre pool complex, features three main pools including a swim-up bar, floating day beds, and more. The world-class, par-72 golf course, Journey at Pechanga, is ranked one of California’s best, winding through 300 feet of native canyons and ravines.

Meetings &

Quechan Casino Resort

QUECHAN CASINO RESORT is an ideal destination in Winterhaven, California—and is host to casino game favorites, four restaurants, and world-class entertainment. The expansive casino floor is home to a variety of gaming, from trying your hand at blackjack to spinning reels at a slot machine. Quechan Resort Casino has an array of eateries, whether you are seeking a fine-dining experience or a casual sports bar. Close to gaming action and great service, Quechan is the perfect place for hosting meetings and events.

Conveniently located next to Yuma, Arizona, Pipa Event Center is just a quick trip away. The event center is one of the region’s largest venues for weddings, meetings, and special events.

It offers a full-size stage and auditorium with seating for 2,300 and dedicated space for a dance floor. Boasting over 20,000 square feet of space—divisible into six stately rooms ranging from 2,415 to 3,174 square feet—the auditorium can be reconfigured for business meetings, team-building exercises, training seminars, trade shows, formal presentations, luncheons, dinners, banquets, weddings, and more. The expert staff of planners ensures flawless execution to make the most of all occasions.

SOARING EAGLE CASINO & RESORT is the ultimate place to have a winning time and is home to Michigan’s largest gaming floor. Whether you love playing for triple sevens or pu ing on a mean poker face, all guests can win big with one of the largest collections of slot machines and table games in Michigan—something for everyone. Additionally, guests can continue their hot streak over at the bingo hall.

Ge ing hungry? Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort presents a variety of topnotch, award-winning dining options that will appeal to everyone. Whether seeking a thick, juicy steak at an upscale steakhouse or a casual all-American burger and milkshake, Soaring Eagle has the options to satisfy every pale e.

What’s dinner without a show? When it comes to entertainment, Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort has been voted the Best Outdoor Concert Venue in Michigan, and has won countless awards for bringing in top-tier talent to the middle of the state.

REIMAGINED.

We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort

SET AMONG the majestic beauty of the Sonoran Desert landscape, We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort is the jewel of the Phoenix area, located just moments from Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, Arizona. The resort is a stunning state-of-the-art oasis and the latest chapter in the rich history of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. The casino features a spacious gaming floor with hundreds of slots; table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette; and the WKP Sportsbook powered by Betfred Sports. It’s all part of a spectacular resort getaway with numerous amenities and comforts.

Host to a number of eateries for any occasion, We-Ko-Pa showcases an incredible array of flavors from around the world.

A destination dining experience, Ember is the perfect stop for an upscale restaurant atmosphere. More casual options include WKP Sports Bar and Entertainment, Ahnala, and The Market.

The resort also serves those who love the outdoors. The We-Ko-Pa Golf Club is home to two award-winning courses, and Fort McDowell Adventures offers guests the chance to tour the desert landscape on horseback, by kayak, or through guided Segway tours.

Business and pleasure come together in the stunning beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Here, you’ll find 25,000 square feet of meeting space that’s flexible to suit gatherings large and small, as well as a 246-room hotel, unforgettable dining, and more. It’s all in the Valley’s finest AAA Four-Diamond Casino Resort.

WILDHORSE RESORT & CASINO sits 4 miles east of Pendleton among the wheat fields and Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon. The resort and casino has two 18-hole golf courses, nine restaurants, a five-screen cineplex, 24 bowling lanes, live music, and multiple indoor-outdoor event spaces with room for 12 to 720 people. It is owned by the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, which includes the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla peoples, and carries on a long tradition of games pertaining to skill and chance from the region’s tribal cultures. The 10-story Tower Hotel has rooms and suites featuring spectacular views of eastern Oregon’s high desert plateaus. Nearby, visitors can tour the world-famous Pendleton Woolen Mills; host events at the Hamley Steakhouse, Western Store, and Saddle Shop; and pick huckleberries or hunt for mushrooms in the Umatilla National Forest. The region also features the Pendleton Round-Up in September, which includes the town’s annual rodeo, as well as brewpubs, wineries, and multiple restaurants and shops along the city’s Main Street.

Sky Ute Casino Resort

UNIQUELY LOCATED amid the diverse Four Corners region of southwest Colorado, Sky Ute Casino Resort is the perfect hub from which to explore the area’s beautiful landscapes. The resort features Las Vegas-style gaming with a familyfriendly atmosphere and easy access to Rolling Thunder Lanes and Arcade and Chimney Rock Playground. Historic downtown Durango, Mesa Verde National Park, and Purgatory Ski Resort are also nearby. The resort features 140 culturally themed rooms and a 25-space RV park, along with on-site dining at Seven Rivers Steak, Seafood, and Spirits—the only authentic steakhouse in southwest Colorado.

PHOTOS: SKY UTE CASINO RESORT

“Pasadena has been the birthplace of some of humankind’s biggest ideas…and today, a new wave of brilliant minds are carrying the torch to uncover the universe’s greatest mysteries.”

-Bill Nye the Science Guy

WHERE GREAT MINDS MEET

Pasadena has a long history of innovation and a deeprooted entrepreneurial spirit. From Hubble to Hawkings, some of the world’s greatest minds have lived and worked in Pasadena, making groundbreaking discoveries and game-changing inventions. Home to Caltech, NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), The Planetary Society and the ArtCenter College of Design, Pasadena’s pioneering institutions have earned worldwide recognition for their contributions to science, technology and creativity.