Southwest Meetings + Events Summer 2023

See why Tucson’s one-of-a-kind culture creates an experience that extends beyond the ballroom. Book now through 2026 and earn up to $15,000 OFF your Master Account.

BY BETH BUEHLER

Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona

18 Omni Tucson National Resort in Arizona

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Better Together

» WE’RE THRILLED TO PRESENT the first issue of Southwest Meetings + Events magazine, one of 10 magazines that are part of Greenspring Media’s Meetings + Events portfolio.

Bringing 18 years as editor of Colorado Meetings + Events to these pages, I continue to marvel at the industry’s creativity, dedication, willingness to partner, and constant growth. While it’s impossible to highlight all the new happenings in the Southwest region in one go, I did my best to provide an insightful overview in this issue’s feature story, which clearly demonstrates that hospitality is indeed on the move again and that the meetings and events industry is revving its engine and zooming forward.

In the Southwest, groups have limitless options to tap local experiences. It’s a place that holds many fond travel memories that can be translated into options for groups. I spent years going to my parents’ winter home in the greater Phoenix, Arizona, area playing rounds of golf, attending events like the Chandler Light Parade, and checking out local eateries. My kids always thrilled at watching the mighty Wurlitzer theater pipe organ rising 10 feet above the 700-seat dining room at Organ Stop Pizza in Mesa and eating cotton candy out of a tin can at Rustler’s Rooste steakhouse in Phoenix.

In New Mexico, I have thoroughly enjoyed skiing Taos Ski Valley multiple times and wandering the museums and galleries in Santa Fe. I was fortunate to spend a few days in Albuquerque this spring touring meeting and event venues, exploring attractions, going on a speakeasy tour, and enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the city in Visit Albuquerque’s hot-air balloon. And there is nothing quite like the year-round magic of Park City, Utah, or the visual impact of seeing the Las Vegas Strip at my first IMEX America in 2017.

None of these experiences happened in a silo, but rather with other people along for the journey. We’re better together and in person, a philosophy that has been clearly demonstrated over the past three-plus years. The same is true for the pages of Southwest Meetings + Events. We welcome your news, story ideas, and feedback. Please feel free to reach out to Todd R. Berger, Senior Editor, tberger@greenspring.com, or me at the email below.

BETH BUEHLER Editor

bbuehler@greenspring.com

PHOTO: BRENNA MOORE

Editor Beth Buehler at Los Poblanos’ Town and Ranch tasting room in Albuquerque, New Mexico

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Products, Places & Inspiring Ideas

IT’S TIME TO GET PERSONAL

Customized event experiences encourage happier, more engaged attendees

BY AMANDA CHRISTENSEN

» WHETHER IT’S A LARGE-SCALE CONFERENCE with hundreds in attendance or an intimate teambuilding retreat for co-workers, it’s important to provide personalized meeting itineraries that cater to guests’ preferences, values, and interests. The International Association of Conference Centers reports that there has been increased personalization of attendee experiences in recent years with 80% of meeting planners reporting that their jobs involve more experience creation than two to five years ago.

Attendees not only want to spend their time at a conference learning and connecting, but they also want to engage in sessions and activities that align with what matters to them—from a lecture on branding or mindfulness to activities like hiking or wine tasting during prearranged free time.

COMPILED BY BETH BUEHLER

Dreamforce, an annual user conference in San Francisco, California, brings industry pioneers, thought leaders, and internet technology professionals together for a weekend of lectures and networking. The event incorporates guided meditation and mindfulness sessions for attendees to align their mental and physical well-being with their conference goals. After all, a content attendee is a more engaged attendee. salesforce.com

Maritz Global Events, based in St. Louis, Missouri, uses a team of consulting experts to personalize events from a portfolio of 20-plus event attendee personas—created from a combination of event strategy and behavioral research—that helps planners anticipate, visualize, and align with the motives of potential event-goers. maritzglobalevents.com

Mystery Trip, an event-planning company based in Los Angeles, creates mystery itineraries that are kept secret from attendees until they arrive for the activity. Each itinerary is custom-made for guests based on a survey taken during the initial kick-o meeting to determine what the group is most interested in doing. Examples include taking a team from Netflix to Gri th Park in Los Angeles to film a mock ’90s sitcom intro. mysterytrip.com

Meeting attendees enjoy customized activities by Mystery Trip.

GOURMET MUNCHIES IN FAB FLAVORS

Popcorn flavors like Blisters On My Buttercrunch, Salted Cocoa Caramel, and SriraCha-Cha are sure to add a burst of flavor and joy to table settings, snack tables, and gift boxes and come in single-serving packages made by Colorado-based Too Haute Cowgirls. For a cowgirl-themed event, pair Fistful of Fleur de Sel popcorn with wildflower seeds and a scented candle for memorable party favors. A barbecue is sure to be remembered when guests receive a gift of Have Bacon Will Travel popcorn, a mason jar of trail mix, and a pack of sparklers upon arrival. toohautecowgirls.com

STIRRING IT UP WITH OLD FASHIONEDS

» WITH NOSTALGIC experiences trending this year, planners are seeking new hands-on opportunities. In Salt Lake City, Utah, The Grand America Hotel’s Old Fashioned Series works well for intimate meeting breakouts or small group gatherings. Led by inhouse spirits experts, the class takes groups through three different kinds of old fashioneds using gin, whiskey, and mezcal distilled in Salt Lake City and Park City. The Grand’s bar team brings in a personal and seasonal flair to the series with two rotating cocktails. grandamerica.com

Presenting the Best Carry-Ons

When taking to the skies for a meeting or event in a distant city, you will need a carry-on to hold your pantsuits, starched shirts, toiletries, and, quite possibly, digital projector. Southwest Meetings + Events looked at the best options for discerning travelers.

BEST OVERALL Away » The Carry-On

The Carry-On from Away has a dent-proof polycarbonate shell, leather details, a waterresistant laundry bag, a TSA-approved combination lock, and an interior compression system. The 360-degree spinner wheels glide down the jetway, and The Carry-On meets most airline carry-on standards for less than $300. The Bigger Carry-On offers more room for your business attire. awaytravel.com

BEST BUDGET-FRIENDLY

Target » Open Story Hardside Carry-On Suitcase

Available in black, denim blue, dark green, and champagne, the 21.5-inch Open Story Hardside Carry-On Suitcase from Target checks all the boxes at less than $200. With a hard-shell exterior made of a sturdy polycarbonate and mesh interior compartments, this budget option is compatible with almost all airline carry-on standards. It is also available in a 29-inch size. target.com

BEST SPLURGE-WORTHY

Rimowa » Original Cabin Carry-On Aluminum Suitcase

At $1,400, the Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On Aluminum Suitcase will appeal to travelers with high standards. In addition to the metal shell exterior, the Rimowa has a lifetime warranty, cotton interior, metal zippers, multiwheel roller system, adaptable interior divider, TSA-approved locks, and sturdy telescoping handles. When cost isn’t a concern or you wish to protect breakable tech, the Original Cabin Carry-On is the suitcase for you. rimowa.com –Todd R. Berger

Ride in Style to the Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon Railway runs daily from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Composed of railcars from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s, the train departs daily at 9:30 a.m. and returns at 5:45 p.m., providing a 2 1/2-hour layover at the South Rim. Options range from luxury dome cars and an open platform observation car to vintage coaches with windows that open. Groups can charter an entire luxury private railroad car, regular cars, or even the whole train complete with chefs, bartenders, and entertainers.

Williams is about 2 1/2 hours from Phoenix, Arizona, and 3 1/2 hours from Las Vegas, Nevada. If traveling from these cities, consider booking a night or two at the historic Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, featuring 298 guest rooms and three meeting spaces, in Williams. thetrain.com

DOUGHNUT LOVERS REJOICE

Want to increase attendance or start the day off right for your group? Pick up a box of goodies at Pinkbox Doughnuts, which offers a fun, modern-day twist on the classic doughnut shop with a whimsical pink interior and 70 varieties of doughnuts that have sweet designs and plenty of personality. Pinkbox recently added an eighth store in North Las Vegas which joins existing locations across southern Nevada; the California and Nevada border in Primm, Nevada; and St. George, Utah. There is also an outlet at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Established in 2012, Pinkbox Doughnuts is expanding rapidly and operates a doughnut food truck that travels to parties and special events. pinkboxdoughnuts.com

DINNER WITH A VIEW

» GROUPS CAN ENJOY a steakhouse experience while savoring the outdoors by the lights and action of the Las Vegas Strip at Carversteak. Located at Resorts World Las Vegas, the restaurant features a 3,500-square-foot terrace complete with a bar, dining space, and lounge gardens. The North and South Patios and Center Patio Bar carry the restaurant’s midcentury-modern vibe outdoors, and all three areas can be reserved for large group gatherings and special events. The 13,500-square-foot restaurant can host 15 to 500 in varied arrangements, and additional private dining options include The Knife Shop and Whiskey Room.

Carver Road Hospitality launched Carversteak in late 2021 and opened Flanker Kitchen + Sports Bar at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas this June. The company is headquartered in Las Vegas with additional offices in Miami, Florida, and New York City. carversteak.com

PHOTOS: GRAND CANYON RAILWAY & HOTEL; JEFF GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY; PINKBOX DOUGHNUTS; (OPPOSITE) VISIT RENO TAHOE; GOCAR LAS VEGAS; BIG WALL DECOR

VISIT RENO TAHOE MANAGING FOUR KEY VENUES

» VISIT RENO TAHOE OWNS AND OPERATES the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and began overseeing operations at the state-owned Reno-Sparks Livestock Events Center and city-owned Reno Events Center and National Bowling Stadium in mid-2022. The venues were under a third-party management agreement since July 2018.

After more than 18 years working in management, maintenance, and operations at the four Visit Reno Tahoe-managed facilities, Trent LaFerriere was promoted to vice president of facilities in tandem with the transition. visitrenotahoe.com

GOCAR DRIVERLESS TOURS ROLL INTO VEGAS

» GOCAR TOURS, the inventors of GPS-guided driving tours, added Las Vegas, Nevada, to its list of locations that also includes Monterey, San Diego, and San Francisco, California; Lisbon and Porto, Portugal; and Barcelona, Spain. With GoCar Las Vegas, groups meeting in the city can choose from a variety of tours such as the bright lights and neon signs of the Las Vegas Strip, the murals and eclectic restaurants of the Las Vegas Arts District, and famous movie locations. In coming months, longer-distance tours of Red Rock Canyon and Hoover Dam will be added.

The GoCar guides the driver while the audio commentary shares stories, facts, and provides recommendations. GoCar Las Vegas will serve as the proving ground for driverless technologies powered by Faction Technology Inc. later this year. In this scenario, GoCar arrives driverless at the client’s location, where they get in and take control of the vehicle

Portable Art for Trade Show Booths & Events

Big Wall Decor challenges the notion that owning large, beautiful artwork is only for the wealthy art connoisseur. With more than 20 years of experience printing for luxury brands, the Big Wall Decor team uncovered a new print and framing solution that makes it easy and affordable to display large-scale, on-trend artwork in trade-show booths, at events, in the office, and at home.

Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Spring Lake, Michigan, the company works with emerging artists who feature their Instagram handles and signatures at the bottom corner of the fabric prints and are paid based on each piece sold. A big bonus for the meetings and events industry is that the wall art is portable and can be quickly assembled or dismantled. Custom designs can be printed on durable, fade-resistant ArtFab fabric to stay in step with rapidly changing marketing campaigns. bigwalldecor.com

to begin a tour, stopping along the way as they wish. When finished, travelers drive back to their hotels, and the GoCar returns driverless to GoCar Las Vegas. gocartours.com

“You Loved Me a Thousand Summers Ago” by Frank Moth

Reno’s National Bowling Stadium

Toast Your Team at Craft Breweries

Go to the source of some of the best beers in Arizona and Nevada

BY BETH BUEHLER

» THE CRAFT BEER CRAZE has hit nearly every state in the country, and the Southwest region is no exception. Check out these microbreweries in Arizona and Nevada that are serving up delicious suds alongside tasty cuisine, have great on-site function space, and, in some cases, adjoin larger gathering places such as a convention center, event venue, or casino hotel.

ARIZONA

In 2007, Navy veteran John Peasley founded Grand Canyon Brewing Co. in Williams with the goal of creating a brand that honored the nearby national park. The brewery relocated to a 5-acre campus in 2017 to accommodate a 40-barrel brewhouse, canning line, brewpub, and more. Soon after, a distillery was established on the same campus

to craft spirits and whiskeys entirely from Arizona farm-sourced grains and to add canned cocktails to the mix.

Today, Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery also has brewpubs in Flagstaff, Kingman, and Page with large dining rooms, game and recreation areas, patios, and more.

“Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery has four locations across northern

Craft Breweries

Beer, appetizers, and entrees at Huss Brewing Co. in Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona, each offering the perfect space to host your next group event,” says Kristin Neely, regional general manager. “Whether it be the private game room next to our small-batch brewery in Flagstaff or a separate indoor balcony featuring a private bar in our Williams production facility, Grand Canyon is sure to be able to meet your group’s needs.”

Historic Brewing Co. has its Eastside Taproom & Production Facility with event space in Flagstaff and Historic Barrel + Bottlehouse locations in both Flagstaff and Williams. Historic Barrel + Bottlehouse offers delicious beer, craft cocktails, and menus that have a wide variety of options, including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian dishes. During fair weather, spill out onto the patios for plenty of fresh air.

Phoenix has a thriving craft brewery scene with three prime recommendations for groups provided by Visit Phoenix. “We wanted to share a few of our favorites located in downtown Phoenix that we’ve successfully seen meeting planners enjoy and love while hosting a meeting in our city,” says Corporate Communications Manager Chris Miller.

One of these gems is the Huss Brewing Co. Downtown PHX Brewpub + To Go within the Phoenix Convention Center (PCC). It’s the only major convention center in the country with a craft brewery, allowing attendees to savor an extensive menu of modern-American fare paired with Huss favorites like Copper

State IPA, Scottsdale Blonde, and Papago Orange Blossom. The brewpub opened in April 2022 in partnership with Aramark’s Aventura Catering, PCC’s food and beverage affiliate, and has indoor and outdoor seating options, a full bar serving signature cocktails, and the capacity to host groups of up to 150.

“We really like to be flexible and curate specific experiences to different groups,” says General Manager Heather Ferreira. “Since we get a lot of convention business, we do offer beer pairing options with some of our group dining packages. We also feature smaller Meet the Brewer events throughout the year. … It’s limited to 20 people and includes a flight of five beers with three of them paired with a salty, savory, and sweet bite.”

Women own and brew the beer at Greenwood Brewing, part of the Roosevelt Row Arts District in downtown Phoenix. The brewery has two outdoor spaces that can be booked for groups: a courtyard that accommodates 45 and a beer garden for up to 75. A full venue rental includes the main indoor taproom, expanding the capacity to 150. The Greenwood team also offers designated bartenders for an event, private concerts, and brewery tours.

Pedal Haus Brewery, founded eight years ago in Tempe by Julian Wright, artfully combines his passion for craft beer and cycling. Pedal Haus expanded to include locations in Phoenix, Chandler, and Mesa and specializes in elevated

pub fare and true-to-style beers ranging from Day Drinker Light Lager to the Belgian-style Tripel.

The Phoenix location is part of monOrchid, an event venue in a historic 1937 building that also houses several businesses. This Pedal Haus location has a rooftop patio with plenty of space for private events and an interior space with 25 TVs that are popular with sports fans, while the brewery in Chandler has a large patio available for private events.

For groups seeking to quaff a pint and dig into tasty cuisine in Tucson, Borderlands Brewing Co. recently teamed up with James Beard Award semifinalist Maria Mazon to open a new taproom in the Sam Hughes neighborhood near the University of Arizona. Mazon’s menu features authentic Sonoran cuisine that can be enjoyed with brews on a patio.

Borderlands’ original location in downtown Tucson’s historic Warehouse Arts District has a spacious outdoor venue with a stage that is used for live music, yoga and beer, and all sorts of events. It’s a perfect place to line up food trucks outside for a fun, casual gathering.

NEVADA

The classic three-story brick building in Reno that houses Depot Craft Brewery & Distillery was constructed in 1910 to serve as the headquarters for the NevadaCalifornia-Oregon Railway. Today, the space skillfully fuses history with modern furnishings, stills, and brewing tanks that

From left: Pouring a draft at the Flagstaff venue of Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery; Borderlands Brewing Co. in Tucson, Arizona

set the stage for memorable meetings and events, along with two large warehouses that are also available for gatherings.

The Depot’s beers all have personas, ranging from The Islander India pale ale (IPA) with pineapple and The Viking oldstock blonde barleywine to The Milkman cocoa milk stout and The Aviator session pale ale. Teams can have fun with a tasting and picking their favorite beer characters or do a sampling of whiskey, bourbon, and gin made on-site. The beer and spirits are crafted the same way, with a preference for local ingredients and respect for tradition and innovation.

Another option in Reno is The Brew Brothers, located within Eldorado Reno Hotel & Casino at The Row. Highlights include a stage for presenting live music and a large observation window for watching the brewers in action. Wood-fired pizzas, burgers, ribs, sandwiches, soups, and salads are among the menu items, and easy access to lodging and additional meeting and event space on-site is a big bonus.

Beer lovers are sure to enjoy the oldest brewery in Nevada, Great Basin Brewing Co., founded 30 years ago in Sparks by Tom and Bonda Young. Savor yearround brews like the Leave No Trace alpine lager, Firelit Haze hazy IPA, Sun Smack’d blood orange blonde ale, and seasonals such as Truckee River Red red ale or Cerveza Chilebeso golden ale with fresh jalapeno peppers.

The brewing and culinary teams use as many sustainably grown and locally sourced ingredients as possible, and many of the dishes on the menu feature Great Basin’s beer and byproducts as ingredients. For example, Icky Bread is made from the spent grain used to brew Icky IPA, and the bratwurst sausage is made using the company’s beer. Or try out the onion rings coated in Wild Horse amber ale batter.

“We have a ton of event space options between our three brewpubs and our production brewery and taproom,” says Brennan Best, marketing director for Local Food Group, which owns Great Basin. “Between the locations, we can accommodate almost anything you can throw at us as far as events go. We have private dining rooms, restaurant buyout options, and, at the production facility, we even host live music.”

borderlandsbrewing.com

caesars.com/eldorado-reno

thedepotreno.com

grandcanyonbrewery.com

greatbasinbrewingco.com

greenwoodbrews.com

historicbrewingcompany.com

hussbrewing.com

pedalhausbrewery.com

PHOTOS: VISIT RENO TAHOE

Left: Depot Craft Brewery & Distillery in Reno, Nevada; Below: The Brew Brothers in Eldorado Reno Hotel & Casino at The Row, also in Reno

THE FLAVOR OF THE SOUTHWEST

VisitTucson.org | 520-770-2166

Ifyou’re looking to provide attendees with the ability to go beyond the ballroom and get outside into wide-open spaces, then look no further than Tucson, Arizona. Surrounded by five mountain ranges and bordered by Saguaro National Park and Coronado National Forest, this desert oasis offers unlimited hiking, biking, and outdoor activities in warm sunshine. Plus, many Tucson-area resorts and hotels feature exceptional outdoor spaces that showcase the stunning landscapes of the Sonoran Desert as a backdrop for meetings and events. While Tucson is known as a resplendent resort destination, you’ll also find several new hotels in the downtown area that perfectly complement the renovated and expanded Tucson Convention Center.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND VENUES

Tucson’s wide range of accommodations provides planners with plenty of options. When it comes to resorts, you’ll find the high-end brands you know and trust. Or, for something a little different, Tucson boasts destination spas, guest ranches, and boutique hotels that provide entirely unique experiences. The city also offers off-site venues and activities to keep things interesting for attendees. Saddle up for a sunset horseback ride or visit worldrenowned attractions like the ArizonaSonora Desert Museum and the Pima Air & Space Museum.

CITY OF GASTRONOMY

Known for its borderlands culture and extraordinary cuisine, Tucson is the first United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) City of Gastronomy in the U.S. and one of the best places for Mexican food north of the border. Try the legendary Sonoran Style Hot Dog from El Güero Canelo or a locally sourced loaf of bread from Baker Don Guerra at Barrio Bread, both of which have won the prestigious James Beard award for culinary excellence.

EASY ACCESS

Tucson’s air services continue to grow, with new service being added regularly. Now, Tucson International Airport offers nonstop service from 21 destination airports in the U.S. and Canada on seven airlines, with convenient one-stop connections that provide access to more than 310 cities around the world.

PLANNER INCENTIVES

Visit Tucson’s award-winning incentives are hard to pass up. The You Fly, We Buy promotion offers complementary round-trip airfare for a qualified request for proposal (RFP). The Master Account Credit lets planners earn up to $5,000 toward their hotel master account, and the Destination Downtown incentive offers a similar credit, but to your convention center master account.

Grand Slam Stadium Meetings

Go big or small at these cheer-worthy options in the Southwest

BY BETH BUEHLER

» THERE IS SOMETHING TRULY SPECIAL about going to a competition, concert, or event at a sports stadium. Game-day energy radiates in the air, sports memorabilia is an inspiring backdrop, and the meeting and event space has an extra dose of grandeur. Luckily, there is a wealth of sports facilities in the Southwest. These football, baseball, and soccer stadiums are typically among the largest in their respective communities, provide add-on experiences, have on-site catering, and can boost enthusiasm and attendance.

ARIZONA

The greater Phoenix area is home to several world-renowned sports venues. It seems appropriate to start with State Farm Stadium in Glendale, host of this year’s Super Bowl LVII. Located in the heart of Glendale’s entertainment district, State Farm Stadium is home to the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals and the Fiesta Bowl and hosts international soccer matches, motor sports, trade and consumer shows, corporate and social functions, and more.

Designed with a rollout, natural grass field and retractable roof, the stadium seamlessly converts from a sports facility to a multipurpose event space. There are unobstructed views of the field for 63,400 fans, a number that expands to 73,000 for mega events like the Super Bowl or a Taylor Swift concert. The 160,000-squarefoot stadium floor is column-free, has a full utility grid, and is adjacent to 40,000 square feet of meeting space. Consider specific event spaces throughout the venue such as the Bubble Lounge, Tail Feather, AZSTA Grand, visiting team locker room, and club lounges to impress guests.

February and March marked the return of the first full Cactus League Spring Training season since 2019, with baseball fans able to watch 15 MLB teams practicing at 10 stadiums around the Phoenix area. Located in the middle of historic Old Town, Scottsdale Stadium, the spring training locale for the San Francisco Giants, is especially well-suited for meetings and events with its old-school charm. The Fieldhouse, Banyan Room, Lodge, locker room, and press level are all available for rent. The Fieldhouse is the largest space and can hold up to 900 for receptions or opt to reserve the entire facility for up to 12,000 attendees.

On a larger scale, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Chase Field is one of baseball’s most recognizable landmarks due in part to its signature swimming pool and hot tub located 415 feet from home plate. Additional features to note include the retractable roof and air conditioning.

PHOTOS: STATE FARM STADIUM; (OPPOSITE) JILL WEISLEDER/ ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS; SUN DEVIL STADIUM

State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona

With a capacity for over 48,600 guests, Chase Field is at the epicenter of the downtown Phoenix sports scene.

Arizona Diamondbacks Events & Entertainment manages all non-baseball special events at the property with the field, plaza, D-Backs Clubhouse, BMW Suite Lounge/BMW Club, Four Peaks Draft Room, Legends Conference Room + Suites, La Terraza, and more available for gatherings. Stadium tours, scoreboard messages, batting cages, and mascot appearances are available add-ons.

“The Greater Phoenix area continues to rise as a national sports and entertainment hub, and we’re looking forward to seeing venues such as Chase Field, State Farm Stadium, and the myriad of spring training stadiums in our region bolster our presence as a top destination for meetings and events for all-comers,” says Lorne Edwards, chief sales officer for Visit Phoenix.

In Tempe, Sun Devil Stadium, home to Arizona State University (ASU) home football games since 1958, has hosted the Super Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Arizona Cardinals home games, and other major football events. Constructed between two mountain buttes, the stadium was literally carved from the desert and serves as a picturesque venue.

Hold a banquet under the stars, build out booths for an outdoor vendor expo, or host

a reception with yard games on the stadium’s Coca-Cola Sun Deck that features over 15,000 square feet of space. The new San Tan Ford Club with 12-foot dual video walls and sweeping views of Frank Kush Field will make up to 700 guests feel like VIPs. Lagunitas Lookout, Hobbs Club, Coach’s Club, and Legends’ Club are ideal for small and medium gatherings.

“Sun Devil Stadium is a great place for hosting events because this space has a rich history filled with tradition and nostalgia,” says Henry Terrazas, director of ASU 365 Community Union, which works with nonathletic events and programs held at the stadium. “Climbing the grand

entrance staircase to admire a sunset while overlooking the football field can only be witnessed in our incredible venue. Plus, the look from surprised clients, guests, or sponsors who are greeted with a giant message on the video board is priceless.”

NEVADA

Adjacent to the Las Vegas Strip, Allegiant Stadium—home to the NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders—offers 10 meeting and event spaces to host small gatherings or up to as many as 65,000 for a full buyout of the stadium, which is fully enclosed and climate controlled. The field and Ford Plaza are the largest options followed by the

From above left: The APS Solar Pavilion at The Plaza at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona; Guests at season kickoff lunch at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Arizona

Allegiant Flight Deck, Coors Light Landing, Modelo Cantina Club, and Twitch Lounge. For smaller meetings and receptions, the club rooms and the Raiders Locker Room are ideal. It’s also possible to book behind-the-scenes tours and schedule appearances of current players and alumni, Rusher the mascot, and the Raiderettes cheerleading squad.

Las Vegas Ballpark opened in 2019 and is home to the Las Vegas Aviators, the Triple-A affiliate of MLB’s Oakland Athletics. Designed to create a festivallike atmosphere in downtown Summerlin, Las Vegas Ballpark holds 8,200 fans and has 22 suites, a meeting room, party zones and decks, bars, and a swimming pool beyond the outfield wall.

The facility has a full range of technology and activities that are sure to enhance an event. “Hosting batting practice on the field, using the outfield and large concourse for company picnics, using the enormous scoreboard to show a movie, or even taking advantage of our outfield pool for a party in the ballpark is like none other,” says Charles Johnson, general manager and vice president of sales and marketing for the ballpark.

NEW MEXICO

Aggie Memorial Stadium at New Mexico State University (NMSU in Las Cruces was n amed to honor students who have served in the armed forces. With a capacity of 30,545, the stadium hosts NMSU home football games and top artists and performers. The 33,500-square-foot Stan Fulton Athletics Center, located at the south end, has a rooftop terrace, Villanueva Victory Club, and skyboxes that can be booked. To the east of Aggie Memorial Stadium, the practice field also is available for outdoor concerts and events.

UTAH

Sandy’s America First Field is the home stadium for Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake and National Women’s Soccer League’s Utah Royals FC. Located 15 miles

from downtown Salt Lake City, America First Field can hold up to 20,000 for games and 25,000 for concerts.

The Interform Club holds 400 guests and has access to a walk-out terrace with spectacular views of the pitch and mountains. Zagg Executive Club is slightly smaller and has advanced audiovisual capabilities and a view of the field, while the Keybank 100 Lion’s Club Room is perfect for a small business meeting or an intimate cocktail party along with 32 suites. For outdoor gatherings, the America First Pavilion has 44,000 square

feet of space on two levels, a huge video board, performance stage, sound system, and concession areas. On game days, the pavilion is an all-inclusive, pre-game group entertainment experience.

allegiantstadium.com

americafirstfield.com

thelvballpark.com

mlb.com

panam.nmsu.edu/facilities

scottsdaleaz.gov/scottsdale-stadium

statefarmstadium.com

America First Field in Sandy, Utah; Below: Las Vegas Ballpark in Nevada

PHOTOS: AMERICA FIRST FIELD; LAS VEGAS AVIATORS

Atan elevation of 5,200 feet above sea level, Prescott, Arizona, has 277 sunny days per year, an average temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and breathtaking landscapes featuring granite mountains, lakes, streams, and rolling meadows filled with wildlife. The city is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of the Prescott National Forest, offering unlimited opportunities to explore nature—including four lakes and 16 parks. And not only is Prescott rife with lodging, dining, and entertainment options for out-of-towners looking for

a rural respite, but it’s also a rising hot spot for hosting meetings and events on the West Coast—especially with direct flights available from Los Angeles and Denver international airports.

Thanks to over 450 miles of trails complemented by serene lakes and sprawling parks, opportunities are endless for corporate groups to enjoy some outdoor activities—from hiking, kayaking, and canoeing to stand-up paddleboarding, bird-watching, horseback riding, and much more. And for those who prefer hitting the links or simply need an outdoor space to

conduct deals with clients, several different golf courses are yours for the taking.

Moreover, Prescott’s historical sites and art museums offer a refreshing respite from busy breakout sessions. The city is home to three of the state’s most coveted museums overflowing with awe-inspiring artifacts and masterpieces: Sharlot Hall Museum, The Phippen Museum of Western Art, and the Museum of Indigenous People.

Keep your group on their feet with the Prescott Heritage Trail & History Hunt. The 90-minute walking tour boasts a series of self-guided activities that reveal some of the city’s most notable historical landmarks and cultural attractions, including the Governor’s Mansion built in 1864, the Hassayampa Inn built in 1927, Elks Theater & Opera House, The Carnegie Library, and more.

What’s more, post-meeting entertainment and eats are easily accessible. When the breakout sessions end and keynote speakers conclude their messages for the day, Prescott’s nightlife, entertainment, and dining scene get their chance to shine. Local culinary spots intermingle with familiar fare throughout downtown while watering holes with unmatched drink menus line the famed Whiskey Row, home to rebuilt Gold Rush-era saloons.

Whether you’re seeking to relax outside with beauty and wildlife, enjoy exceptional dining and shopping, or learn more about the history of the Wild West—Prescott has all you need.

Lot of A Whole NEW

Innovative hotels, refreshed spaces, and cool experiences are a big part of the Southwest’s blossoming meetings and events scene

BY B E TH BU E HLE R

Clockwise from top: Morning Yogurt at Omni Tucson National Resort; Bennie's Courtyard at The Scottsdale Resort & Spa; The Ritz-Carlton, Paradise Valley's lobby; Grand Canyon Glamping Resort's covered wagon accommodations

It feels like a time machine. Only three years ago, everything went on pause for the meetings and events industry. Today, however, a colorful kaleidoscope of intriguing new venues for groups is blooming across the Southwest.

Planners seeking new lodging and meeting experiences are in luck, as Arizona is adding new options galore in the form of sizable resorts, unique hotels, and highend glamping. Utah’s Greater Zion area is also delivering additional options for groups to embrace the outdoors by staying in luxury tents and Airstreams, while Salt Lake City added a dual-branded hotel not found anywhere else.

Las Vegas is moving forward in noticeable ways with big renovations, the upcoming completion of a massive resort, and new attractions that nod to high-tech and punk rock. Farther northwest, Reno has its fair share of property refreshes, along with three new places to gather with dining and entertainment built in. In New Mexico, make sure to get the secret codes before a team outing to the growing number of speakeasies in Albuquerque and keep your eyes on the expanding cultural options in Santa Fe.

A RIZO NA

For gatherings around the campfire or on horseback, head to the Grand Canyon Glamping Resort just minutes from the rim of Grand Canyon West on the Hualapai Indian Reservation. The new resort offers an array of luxury camping accommodations in tents and covered wagons, as well as on-site dining from a food truck and opportunities to tour the area via helicopter, horse, and all-terrain vehicles.

Sit back and relax at the destination spa Mii amo at Enchantment Resort in Sedona, which reopened in February after a multimillion-dollar renovation and expansion. Additions include a lightfilled fitness wing, new treatment rooms, and Hummingbird, a signature restaurant that spotlights ingredients sourced from nearby farms and Mii amo’s garden.

The 164-room Moxy Phoenix Downtown is opening its doors this September—and in true Moxy style, will check in guests at the bar where they can savor a glass of wine or beer or elect to move to the Bitter and Twisted cocktail bar. The small Plug and Meet gathering area will be ideal for brainstorming sessions and presentations.

Also, in the greater Phoenix area, the 330-room Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU opened in April and offers 36,000 square feet of meeting and event space and four dining outlets, including a rooftop restaurant and bar.

The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie, will debut this fall as the first Ritz-Carlton built from the ground up in the United States since 2009. The 20-acre property will have a 400-foot-long swimming pool, citrus grove, spa, oxygenenriched guest rooms, 20,000 square feet of function space, and an adjacent open-air shopping space called The Palmeraie.

The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch near Phoenix is undergoing the largest improvement project in the property’s nearly 50-year history and is also rebranding to The Scottsdale Resort & Spa. Upgrades will be made to all guest rooms, common areas, food and beverage outlets, the spa, and 90,000 square feet of function space. The largest part of the project includes the conversion of the resort’s Stillman Building that featured 60 guest rooms and suites into 12 twostory luxury villas.

In April, The Leo Kent Hotel, Tucson, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, opened in the first nine floors of a longtime downtown skyscraper at the crossroads of West

Broadway Boulevard and South Church Avenue. The boutique hotel’s 1,300 square feet of meeting and event space can host groups of up to 60.

Omni Tucson National Resort completed a multimillion-dollar refresh to 25,000 square feet of meeting and event space, the lobby, the fitness center, and all guest rooms, suites, and casitas. New offerings include three restaurant and lounge concepts and the Mokara Spa with 12 treatment rooms and a salon

“This long-anticipated renovation marks a whole new era for Omni Tucson National Resort,” says Michael Maruca, general manager of the resort. “The entire property has been transformed inside and out.”

N EVA DA

Las Vegas is poised to have a stellar 2023 with more than $4 billion in new development planned throughout the city. The $2.17 billion MSG Sphere at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is under construction and scheduled to open in fall 2023. With about 17,500 seats and built in the shape of a sphere, the modernistic venue will host concerts, product launches, marquee events, and more. In addition to the world’s largest and highest-resolution LED screen, the Sphere will have a multilayered audio system equipped with thousands of speakers and 4D multisensory technologies such as changing scents and temperatures.

MGM Resorts is investing big in two of its properties, with $110 million dedicated to renovating all 819 rooms and 104 suites in the Spa Tower at Bellagio Resort & Casino. The project will wrap up by October and follow the resort’s

As the local DMC company for Albuquerque and Santa Fe, I find that our guests are looking for meaningful travel and immersive experiences from a local’s perspective.”

—SHELI HINDS ARMSTRONG , owner and CEO of Destination Southwest

remodel of more than 2,500 guest rooms in the main tower. In 2024, guest-room enhancements throughout the resort will culminate with the redesign of Bellagio Tower’s suites.

In addition to revamped guest suites, MGM will embark on a $100 million renovation to its 2.1 million-squarefoot convention center at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. Among the refreshed features are 11 new digital walls and redesigned spaces with an upbeat, tropical style; brighter lighting; fine art; and seating nooks. The project will be done in phases and is projected for completion by the end of 2024.

“We listened to feedback from meeting planners over recent years and are confident this refreshed and upgraded space will exceed their needs and expectations in every way,” says Ernest Stovall, vice president of sales for Mandalay Bay.

Caesars Palace’s recently unveiled multimillion-dollar renovation includes the main entrance, casino dome, porte cochere, and the new Galleria Bar in the hotel’s lobby. Caesars is also expanding food and beverage options to include the Dominique Ansel Las Vegas by the James Beard Award-winning pastry chef. Steaks are a highlight at the 200-seat Stanton Social Prime, along with two private dining spaces and delectable desserts and cocktails. For an impressive tableside presentation, order the Super Tomahawk steak that is delivered hanging under a small dome of miniature lights and doused with spoonfuls of flaming cognac.

Head north to Reno to visit the new Element Reno Experience District hotel in the multifaceted Reno Experience District. The 170-room venue features about 1,800 square feet of meeting space, a rooftop pool, a lobby bar and lounge, and a restaurant. As a part of a larger project, the Element Reno Experience District hotel is joined by two luxury apartment complexes, artisan shops, dining, entertainment, a market hall, and a 2-acre public park with an amphitheater.

“From hotel renovations, new and exciting events, and additional amenities throughout the destination, Reno Tahoe continues to evolve, improve, and re-energize, giving visitors more reasons and more ways to discover northern Nevada,” says Charles Harris, president and CEO of Reno Tahoe.

N EW ME XICO

For something a little mysterious, groups should take part in Albuquerque’s growing speakeasy scene. Pull open a bakery shelf to step inside the 1920s-themed Teddy Roe’s or tap a golden banana to enter Hotel Zazz’s hidden vinyl and cocktail bar, Z-Lounge. Drop the code word in El Rey Liquors to get through the secret entrance into Founders Speakeasy or make a reservation at Vernon’s Speakeasy, hidden behind the bookcase.

Capitalizing on this hidden bar trend is Destination Southwest, a destination management company (DMC) based in Albuquerque. For cocktail lovers, the company offers custom speakeasy and secret lounge tours for groups. “As the local DMC company for Albuquerque and Santa Fe, I find that our guests are looking for meaningful travel and immersive experiences from a local’s perspective,” says Sheli Hinds Armstrong, owner and CEO.

In Nob Hill (a neighborhood of Albuquerque known for its eclectic shops and chic dining options), the historic Lobo Theater reopened as a lounge and event space and was joined by a slew of new eateries and bars including the upscale wine bar Public House ABQ and a dual concept featuring Gather for cocktails and small plates and 3128 Social House for gastropub fare.

In Santa Fe, the New Mexico Museum of Art is expanding to two locations, with the new Vladem Contemporary slated to open in the Santa Fe Railyard District in September to complement the attraction’s historic building on the Plaza. The Vladem Contemporary has flexible exhibition

spaces totaling 10,000 square feet that broaden the possibilities for holding large-scale installations, multimedia projects, performance-based works, and indoor and outdoor meetings and events.

UT A H

The dual-branded Element Salt Lake City Downtown and Le Méridien Salt Lake City Downtown opened in January and is the first combination of the two brands. The property is adjacent to Delta Center, a sports and entertainment facility and home to the NBA’s Utah Jazz. It is also steps away from the Salt Palace Convention Center. Le Méridien and Element offer a combined 270 guest rooms, rooftop pool,

fitness center, and about 8,400 square feet of meeting space. Guests can sample elevated French cuisine at Adelaide or try small plates and cocktails at Van Ryder rooftop bar.

Just 40 minutes away from Salt Lake City in Park City is The St. Regis Deer Valley’s new Snow Park building, which features the Italian eatery, La Stellina, which opened in January. Executive Chef Pierson Shields and his team artfully combine locally sourced produce with Italian meats, cheeses, and pastas to create tasty dishes for guests—with sommeliers on staff to recommend thoughtful wine pairings.

Travel to the southwestern corner of the state to stay at Zion Wildflower Resort in Virgin near Zion National Park. Expanding its lodging options to 40 roomy, luxurious tents with private bathrooms, the property is also debuting cooling pools and a clubhouse with on-site dining options and dedicated space for meetings and events.

experiencescottsdale.com

grandcanyonwest.com

santafe.org

tempetourism.com

visitalbuquerque.org

visitlasvegas.com

visitparkcity.com

visitphoenix.com

visitrenotahoe.com

visitsaltlake.com

visitsedona.com

visittucson.org

From hotel renovations, new and exciting events, and additional amenities throughout the destination, Reno Tahoe continues to evolve, improve, and re-energize, giving visitors more reasons and more ways to discover northern Nevada.”

—CHARLES HARRIS , president and CEO of Reno Tahoe

Clockwise from left: A craft cocktail at the Hotel Zazz's Z-Lounge in Albuquerque, New Mexico; A guest suite at Element Salt Lake City Downtown; Omni Tempe Hotel at ASU's rooftop bar and restaurant, Lucero; Moxy Phoenix Downtown

Nourishing the Mind in Hospitality

The industry is making strides toward a healthier work culture

In all professional enterprises, workplace stress is a common cause of mental health concerns—and the hospitality industry is no exception. According to the 2021 Mind the Workplace report by Mental Health America (MHA), the hospitality industry ranked as one of the top three unhealthiest industries in terms of overall health, financial health, burnout, supervisor support, and mental health outcomes—no doubt heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it’s also important to note how the pandemic fostered an uptick in mental health discourse in the workplace and encouraged industry leaders to better support the mental well-being of staff.

Mental Health in the Industry

Hospitality professionals tend to work unusual hours, which can lead to exhaustion and stress (FHE Health).

Nearly two-thirds of supervisors feel their role has become more di cult since the start of the pandemic, and many feel ill-equipped to provide helpful mental health support to team members (Lyra Health).

Six Action Items for Employers to Support Mental Health (Lyra Health)

1 Supervisors need to listen to employees’ concerns and encourage dialogue around mental health.

of survey respondents are comfortable talking about their mental health challenges at work compared to 23% in 2021.

3 Provide easier access to treatment options for major mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

2 Ensure e ective care. On-the-job productivity is 27% higher among employees who received evidence-based treatments.

A study by Cohen Veterans Network and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing reports that 74% of surveyed Americans don’t believe reliable mental health services are accessible to everyone due to the following barriers:

High cost and insu cient insurance coverage

Limited options and long waits

Lack of awareness

5 Give managers the training and resources needed to support team members.

4 Support the mental health of employees’ families.

6 Design a positive and supportive work environment to combat burnout.

provide A Well-Rounded Benefits Program

According to MHA, the following perks are associated with the healthiest workplaces across industries:

Open-door policies and relaxed work environments

Pet-friendly o ces, on-site mental health services, and complimentary massage therapy

Opportunities for professional growth

Four out of five employers o er employee assistance programs to support mental health and assist with other issues that impact work and home life (America’s Health Insurance Plans).

New Owner for The Venetian

Vici Properties Inc. acquired all land and real estate assets associated with The Venetian Resort Las Vegas and The Venetian Convention Center & Expo Las Vegas for $4 billion. The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, built in phases since 1999, features three hotel towers, 1.1 million square feet of meeting facilities, 225,000 square feet of gaming space, and a variety of amenities including The Paiza Club, Canyon Ranch spa, and several theaters. The Venetian Convention Center & Expo is one of the largest trade show and convention facilities in the United States, with 1.2 million square feet of space. venetianlasvegas.com

Vermejo Welcomes Groups to Explore

Staff at the 550,000-acre Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve that crosses from northern New Mexico into southern Colorado, began welcoming group business this year. The property is ideal for team building, strategizing, incentive trips, and celebrations. While there, groups can enjoy safaris, a via feratta climbing park (a climbing route on a mountain face that uses ladders, fixed anchors, and steel cables to assist with rough terrain), sports shooting, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and more. For an environmentally conscious experience, teams are invited to build and name their own riparian habitat that they can watch flourish in the years to come.

In March, Ted Turner and the Turner Foundation were recognized by the New Mexico legislature for philanthropy and contribution to large land conservation. Senate Memorial 62 recognized Turner as the largest private landowner in New Mexico, for his efforts toward converting historic properties to nature preserves, and for the foundation’s donation of $1.2 million in grants for youth, conservation, and education organizations statewide. Turner owns more than 1 million acres of land in the state including Vermejo, the 156,000-acre Ladder reserve at the base of the Black Range in the Southern Basin and Range region, and the 360,000-acre Armendaris reserve in the Chihuahuan Desert. tedturnerreserves.com

LOS MILICS VINEYARDS EXPANDS

In Elgin, Arizona, near Tucson, Los Milics Vineyards debuted its sleek tasting room in February and will open nine luxury casitas in November. Situated at an altitude of 5,000 feet above sea level in one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the country, Los Milics sits on 20 acres surrounded by the Mustang Mountains. Groups up to 75 people can sip wine paired with food in this stunning architectural gem. losmilicsvineyards.com

Buffalo Bill’s Reopens After Major Renovation

» IT’S A WHOLE NEW WORLD at Buffalo Bill’s Resort & Casino in Primm, Nevada, after a multimillion-dollar renovation. Redesigned hotel rooms, a refreshed casino floor with a new Tree Bar featuring 85-inch TVs and additional slot machines, and a lineup of restaurants are all part of the upgrades. One of the culinary options, BB Chophouse, emulates a Tuscan countryside and showcases a live-action kitchen in the center of the room. Buffalo Bill’s Star of the Desert Arena also underwent renovations, including the addition of a huge video wall. primmvalleyresorts.com

Southwest Conference Planners Lands ADMEI Awards

Southwest Conference Planners in Scottsdale, Arizona, received two awards at the Association of Destination Management Executives International (ADMEI) annual conference in February at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay in Florida. admei.org.

Best Creative Solution to New World Challenges Program: Music Masters

Southwest Conference Planners designed a client program around a story told from the arrival experience until the group departed. To honor top performer achievements, a set list was created that brought attendees on a musical journey. The stage was set for two completely different events that happened simultaneously and featured two musical genres: pop and country. It was a musical juxtaposition with something for everyone.

Best Event: $200,000 or Less Program: Experience the Elements

Southwest Conference Planners was tasked with creating an event that conveyed four elements (air, earth, fire, and water) while tying in a hotel client’s tagline. From any location in the event venue, guests were met with the elements from colorful pillars and swimming pools to linens and florals. Various activations took place throughout the night to keep the theme alive from food and beverage to turndown gifts.

WYNN LAS VEGAS

INTRODUCES HEALTH & WELLNESS PROGRAM

Meeting and event planners can tap into the new Wynn Living Well program at Wynn Las Vegas for ideas on how attendees can take care of their minds and bodies while on the road. The options include the TB12 method of recently retired NFL quarterback Tom Brady and his body coach, Alex Guerrero; the method customizes IV therapies at NutriDrip by Clean Market. Experience in-room workout videos from Amanda Kloots, the program’s ambassador. The videos provide an easy way to sneak in exercise before or after meetings.

A sampling of additional options include a CBDinfused massage at The Spa at Wynn or The Spa at Encore, SoulCycle classes, Living Well food choices, and Drinking Well nonalcoholic beverages.

wynnlasvegas.com

Scottsdale Private Event Venues Adds to Portfolio

Mick’s Place of Scottsdale and Elevate

Hangar North Phoenix are now part of the 14 event venues managed by Scottsdale Private Event Venues. The portfolio contains 11 hangars, two private collector car venues, and one home. Mick’s Place has 5,000 square feet of unobstructed space, an enviable stable of collector cars, and a central location near Scottsdale resorts. Elevate Hangar North Phoenix features two side-by-side hangars with a combined total of 22,000 square feet of indoor and 10,000 square feet of outdoor space. Scottsdale Private Event Venues also offers event planning services ranging from decor, catering, and ground transportation to audiovisual, production, and live entertainment. spevevents.com

Accessibility & Bee Initiatives in Mesa

MGM RESORTS JOINS CEO WATER MANDATE

As the first gaming company to endorse the United Nations’ CEO Water Mandate, MGM Resorts International joins a coalition of more than 230 major companies around the world that are making commitments to address water crises and challenges. Through the CEO Water Mandate, participants commit to action across six key elements—direct operations, supply chain and watershed management, collective action, public policy, community engagement, and transparency—and to reporting the progress annually.

From the Fountains of Bellagio to landscaping and swimming pools, water management is a key component of MGM Resorts’ overall sustainability efforts. Between 2007 and 2021, MGM Resorts reduced water use by 37% and avoided use of 5.6 billion gallons through conservation and water-efficient building and design initiatives. A few examples of water-saving efforts include replacing over 200,000 square feet of grass with drought-tolerant landscaping in Las Vegas and installing water-efficient fixtures and equipment in guest rooms, kitchens, and laundry facilities.

mgmresorts.com

Visit Mesa is partnering with Wheel the World to ensure the community is one of the nation’s most accessible group destinations. The free service is designed to provide groups with advanced information on accessible experiences in Mesa.

On Wheel the World’s website, attendees can create a personalized profile that allows the organization to recommend accommodations and activities in Mesa that are compatible with travel aspirations and personal needs. The program also allows planners to book hotels and tours and provides reliable information about accessibility in the area. Specialized customer support is also available.

In addition, Visit Mesa is sponsoring two beehives at Freeman Farms to support bee education and sustainability on the destination marketing organization’s Fresh Foodie Trail. The trail links culinary experiences at local farms and weaves groups through Mesa and into the surrounding towns of Queen Creek and Gilbert.

visitmesa.com | wheeltheworld.com

National NACE Leader Speaks at Hotel Valley Ho

Members and guests of the National Association of Catering & Events (NACE) Phoenix Chapter in Arizona gathered on March 21 for networking, a four-course meal, and a presentation by Amber Allen, CPCE, who is serving as president of the national NACE board of directors. Allen is also the director of food and beverage at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale and is past president of the NACE Phoenix Chapter. No one went home hungry with three appetizers, heirloom tomato mosaic, Parker House rolls, slow-braised beef short ribs and accompanying sides, and banana mousse on the menu.

1. Gianna Hawk and Kiana Huey

2. Decor by PJs Flowers & Events

3. Mia Ventre and Mary Knight

4. Amber Allen, CPCE 5. Charcuterie by Hotel Valley Ho 6. Erica and Chris Sage 7. Shannon Southwick, Jeanette Noiles, Rachel Herr, and Emily Quail

8. Kellie Mendoza, Enas Patros

9. Marie Topete, Barbara Grace, and Jerry Topete

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

SNAPSHOTS NACE Phoenix

Honoring Tradition

New Mexican Ed Pulsifer keeps history at the forefront of Santa Fe’s La Fonda on the Plaza

BY BETH BUEHLER

When Ed Pulsifer received a call about the director of sales and marketing position at La Fonda on the Plaza in Santa Fe, New Mexico, it was a no-brainer for him. Dating back 101 years, the hotel is a major local attraction known for taking great care of its staff, with several employees working there as long as 30 to 40 years. He joined the team 11 years ago and describes it as “the best place I’ve ever worked.”

Born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Pulsifer brings 38 years of hospitality sales and marketing experience to the table and currently serves as a board member for the New Mexico Hospitality Association and Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce. The New Mexico Hospitality Association inducted him into the New Mexico Tourism Hall of Fame in 2019.

Prior to joining La Fonda, Pulsifer was vice president of sales and marketing for Heritage Hotels & Resorts and vice president of convention sales for Visit Albuquerque. Little did Pulsifer know, his new job at La Fonda would intimately entwine him with the property’s rich history and earn him a second job title of hotel historian.

His interest in the hotel’s history began after the Newcomers Club of Santa Fe called to schedule a field trip to La Fonda to learn about its 2013 renovations and large art collection. Pulsifer started doing historical research on the hotel and “by the eighth tour, kept learning and talking to more people,” he recalls. “I was getting so many requests and couldn’t say no.”

By September 2014, eight people were recruited to meet with a facilitator for several months to create an official tour program of the property, and then asked to invite their friends. By the following spring, 50 volunteers absorbed the content for a July kickoff. Today, two schedulers coordinate the volunteers and book tours that can host up to 12 guests. “Since the launch, 8,000 people have taken our tours. It is like a museum-quality docent program, keeping history alive,” Pulsifer says.

“La Fonda is a very unique, special hotel,” he observes. “There is a soul and energy that you feel when you walk in. You want to be here. Historic hotels represent a region and have such a sense of place.” lafondasantafe.com

PHOTO: TONY MITCHELL

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