Small Market Meetings March 2018 by The Group Travel Leader, Inc.

d e k o o t H Ge on

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Volume 19

Issue 3

March 2018

Understanding Industry Certifications

Learn how continuing education programs help meeting planners succeed.

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Meetings on Tap Wineries and breweries can make excellent venues for laid-back events.

Meet Michigan’s Capital Lansing (and nearby East Lansing) offer a host of amenities for meetings.

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Courtesy Chateau Ste. Michelle

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Missouri’s Healing Waters The historic Elm Springs Hotel still attracts weary travelers.

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Discover Maryland’s charming historic sites and convenient campus venues.

On the cover: A historic interpreter welcomes visitors to Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine. Photo by Lauren Zeid.

SMALL MARKET MEETINGS is published monthly by Pioneer Publishing, Inc., 301 E. High St., Lexington, KY 40507, and is distributed free of charge to qualified meeting planners who plan meetings in small and medium size towns and cities. All other meeting industry suppliers, including hotels, conference centers, convention centers, destinations, transportation companies, restaurants and other meeting industry-related companies may subscribe by sending a check for $39 for one year to: Small Market Meetings, Circulation Department, 301 East High St., Lexington, KY 40507. Phone (866) 356-5128 (toll-free) or (859) 225-1452. Fax: (859) 253-0499. Copyright SMALL MARKET MEETINGS, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of editorial or graphic content in any manner without the written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

For Sales Call

Kelly Tyner

MAC T. LACY PUBLISHER/PARTNER maclacy@grouptravelleader.com

BRIAN JEWELL EDITOR brian@smallmarketmeetings.com

HERBERT SPARROW EXECUTIVE EDITOR/PARTNER hsparrow@grouptravelleader.com

DAVID BROWN ART DIRECTOR production@smallmarketmeetings.com

www.smallmarketmeetings.com

Maryland Meeting Guide Courtesy Greater Lansing CVB

Finding the Fountain of Youth St. Augustine combines history and coastal charm.

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866-356-5128

kelly@grouptravelleader.com

STACEY BOWMAN SAVANNAH OSBOURN ACCOUNT MANAGER STAFF WRITER sales@smallmarketmeetings.com CHRISTINE CLOUGH COPY EDITOR KELLY TYNER ACCOUNT MANAGER RENA BAER sales@smallmarketmeetings.com PROOFREADER

STEP

ONE

Exclusive 2018 Advertising Packages! CHOOSE 3 ISSUES

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SEPTEMBER CVB — Small Market Defined Downtowns New England Meeting Guide

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JULY Rick Management Convention Centers Missouri Meeting Guide

NOVEMBER CVB — Rebates & Incentives Meetings at Resorts Dakotas Meeting Guide

August Utilizing Sponsorships Waterfront Destinations Tennessee Meeting Guide

DECEMBER Marketing Meetings Museums SMM Directory

STEP

TWO

SELECT YOUR SIZE ADDED VALUE: • Your ad is also included in our digital edition that is emailed each month to additional online readers and your ad is automatically linked to your website.

1/6 Page 2.5” x 4.5” $2,300 net total for 3 ads

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STEP

THREE

• Disclaimer - Package Rates available for new insertions only, not valid on any previously placed insertion orders.

RATE TOTAL INCLUDES 3 AD INSERTIONS!

CONTACT US! Call or Email Stacey or Kelly to secure your space! sales@smallmarketmeetings.com Kelly@grouptravelleader.com 866-356-5128 www.smallmarketmeetings.com

Meetings Leaders: Rob DeCleene September 26-28 By Rachel Carter

ob DeCleene is the youngest — by far — of eight children. When he was starting middle school, his next-oldest sibling was enrolling in college. “My parents were a little bit older when Rob DeCleene they had me; I was a bit of a surprise,” he said with a laugh. So when his parents got the travel bug, he got to tag along on road trips. With their hometown of South Bend, Indiana, as headquarters, the trio traveled extensively while DeCleene was in high school. “That bug has never left me,” he said. “I probably crossed off a good 40 states with my parents, and just last year, I crossed off my 50th” — Alaska. DeCleene had such wonderful times traveling with his parents that he wanted to travel for a living but didn’t know exactly how to make that happen. When it came time for college, he was pleasantly surprised to discover that Indiana University in Bloomington had a new program for tourism management. As part of his undergraduate program at IU, DeCleene interned with the Bloomington Convention and Visitors Bureau, which “introduced me to a completely different side of the industry.” That internship led to a job with the CVB, and he spent his first two years out of college in the CVB world. “That’s all it took to get me hooked,” he said. He shifted over to the hotel industry for about four and a half years working for a hotel management company and moving around the country to handle sales and operations for a variety of hotels. Eventually, he decided it was time to get back into the CVB world, and when a position opened with the Bloomington CVB, he jumped back in. DeCleene was the Bloomington CVB director of tourism for nine years, from 2001 to 2010.

Conference Report

Photos courtesy South Bend Mishawaka CVB

Rob DeCleene, center, joins colleagues in representing South Bend at meetings-industry functions. Back then he kept a mental list of “top five” locations where he would move for a job. The list included big cities such as Austin and San Francisco. No. 5 was his hometown of South Bend, but only if he got the chance to head up Visit South Bend Mishawaka. “It is my hometown, so it’s always been intriguing to me to get the opportunity to sell and market it,” he said. He started as the executive director of Visit South Bend Mishawaka in May 2010, and on January 1, 2018, he was promoted into his current role as executive vice president of the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce, which is the parent organization of the CVB. In his new role, he didn’t give up any responsibility running Visit South Bend Mishawaka but added expanded duties as the Chamber’s second-in-command. South Bend is benefiting from both great energy and great synergy today, he said. During the past few years, everyone — the city, the county, corporate partners and the University of Notre Dame — has gotten on the same page to work together in promoting the community. Tourism in South Bend/Mishawaka starts with the University of Notre Dame because it has an international reputation and enjoys global recognition. On campus, conference planners will find the Morris Inn, with 150 guest rooms and over 28,000 square feet of IACC-certified conference space.

This past fall, the university completed its $400 million Campus Crossroads project, which attached three buildings to the exterior of the 87-year-old Notre Dame football stadium. The expansion included ballroom space, terraces and other event venues throughout, DeCleene said. Planners can also tap Notre Dame for athletics, recreation, performing arts, music and other group experiences. Downtown has carved out a niche as a cultural and dining district, he said. It’s home to the Morris Performing Arts Center and the South Bend Civic Theatre and has a high concentration of independent restaurants and nightspots. The East Race Waterway is a 1.5mile, man-made, urban whitewater course that stretches through downtown, allowing visitors to go rafting and kayaking. The Century Center also sits on the banks of the St. Joseph River in downtown; the venue offers more than 75,000 square feet of convention space with about 430 guest rooms attached in two hotels. Another 200 guest rooms are within easy walking distance of the center, he said. He has seen how the community has embraced tourism promotion since he returned home eight years ago and how it has helped attract conferences and events. “It’s a nice affirmation of the importance of tourism and how vital it is to the local economy,” he said. “It’s an exciting time to be here and an exciting time to play a role in it.”

www.smallmarketmeetings.com

Growing up in South Bend gave DeCleene a love of the city.

Executive Profile NAME

Rob DeCleene

TITLE

Executive Vice President

ORGANIZATION

South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce

LOCATION

South Bend, Indiana

BORN

South Bend, Indiana

EDUCATION

B.S. 1994, Recreation-Tourism Management, Indiana University

CAREER HISTORY

Bloomington CVB, hotel management, South BendMishawaka CVB

FAMILY

Seven older siblings and a 3-year-old Boston terrier rescue dog, Freddie.

HOBBIES

Running, world travel, Scrabble

Tips From Bob DeCleene • Use your destination’s CVB. And that’s not just a company line. There are so many services, tips and incentives and so much local knowledge available from a CVB staff that it can only make your meeting more high-impact and successful. • Get out into the community with as many functions as possible. Ninety-nine percent of meeting venues are windowless and can be Anywhere, USA. Show your attendees you want them to experience the destination. • Offer a hot breakfast. It’s simple, but people like protein.

March 2018

Pechanga Resort and Casino Completes $300 Million Expansion TEMECULA, California — The Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians has announced the upcoming completion of its $300 million expansion to the Pechanga Resort and Casino. The expansion includes a new AAA Four Diamond 568-room and suite hotel wing, a 4.5-acre pool complex, two new restaurants and an additional event space. With its new event center, Pechanga Summit, the expansion doubles the available space for meetings, trade shows, events and concerts. Encompassing 40,000 square feet, Pechanga Summit has five divisible sections. The largest section is 18,257 square feet with four 5,987-square-foot periphery sections. An indoor prefunction area and 15 second-floor meeting rooms wrap around the space on three sides for a total 68,000 square feet. Two of the 15 breakout rooms are VIP meeting rooms that overlook the event center and include retractable chandeliers; a ceiling catwalk for lighting, sound and event rigging; and a dedicated banquet kitchen right outside the new space. Each room is accompanied by a video monitor. “What really sets us apart is how the indoor space flows into natural mountain views of the surrounding environment, including a poolside lawn area with a 4.5acre lagoon-style pool complex with fire pits, a fourth-floor rooftop garden and private event lawn space,” said Scott Wilson, director

Courtesy Pechanga Resort and Casino

The expansion at Pechanga Resort and Casino includes 20,000 square feet of new meeting space. of sales at Pechanga Resort and Casino. “Also unique are the nods to the culture of the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians in the architecture, decor and native plants.” With the entire project nearing completion this month, members of the tribal council and the board of directors took time for reflection. “This $300 million project is a long-term investment to help cement Pechanga and Southern California Wine Country as a complete and refined destination experience,” said

tribal chairman Mark Macarro. “It is the beginning of the next chapter of Pechanga Resort and Casino and an important milestone in our history. This expansion prepares our tribe for the next quarter-century and positions our tribal government and community for success in the 21st century and beyond.” Economists from Beacon Economics estimate that Pechanga’s expansion resulted in an output to the region of more than $550 million and the creation of 560 jobs per year. www.pechanga.com

Benchmark Announces Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center

The upcoming Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center will overlook Kyle Field.

Industry News

Courtesy Benchmark

THE WOODLANDS, Texas — Benchmark, a global hospitality company, has added another Texas property to its portfolio: the Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center. Now under construction on the historic Texas A&M University campus in College Station, the new eight-story facility will offer 250 guest accommodations and suites, a formal restaurant, a two-story bar and lounge, a gym and a business center. The hotel overlooks Kyle Field, site of numerous events and sports competitions, including the games of the fabled Texas Aggies football team. “Whoop! That’s Aggie for how excited I am to welcome this incredible project into Benchmark’s portfolio,” said Alex Cabañas, CEO of Benchmark. “As a Texas A&M graduate, Class of 1998, it is a privilege to work with

www.smallmarketmeetings.com

Courtesy Benchmark

The new hotel will feature decor in maroon and white, Texas A&M’s team colors.

a world-class university that means so much to me, and to deliver a one-of-a-kind experience on the campus and within the Bryan/ College Station community and the region.” The Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center will be in a striking glass tower with a total of 252,500 square feet; the 35,000 square feet of meeting and event space will include a spacious 8,300-square-foot ballroom for up to 1,000 guests. Twenty-two flexible meeting rooms will accommodate presentations, board meetings, private dinners and receptions. The 1,400-car garage will be connected to the hotel by a covered bridgeway. The property’s accommodations will include 250 guest rooms with two penthouses and 11 suites. The rooms will be decorated in Texas A&M’s colors of maroon and white with soft accents of gray. Historic photos of the events at Kyle Field will provide drama and a sense of place. The hospitality suites will overlook the hotel’s Pool Terrace with its swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant and bar for relaxation and informal events. Dining options will include a restaurant that is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner; a casual bistro that serves drinks and light refreshments; a patio restaurant; a bar on two levels that opens onto a terrace on each level; and a pool bar that serves light fare. Benchmark plans to provide innovative banquet services that include sustainable, local sourcing of ingredients, fresh, healthful food. The conference space is designed to meet the exacting standards of IACC, formerly known as the International Association of Conference Centers, providing a productive learning environment with ergonomic furniture, top audiovisual equipment and state-of-the-art built-in technology throughout the center. www.tamuhotelandconferencecenter.com

March 2018

Building Blocks of a Creative Board Meeting A pro meeting planner shares tips on making micro-meetings memorable By Vickie Mitchell

eeting designer Dianne Budion Devitt has a surprising answer when she’s asked, “What’s the largest meeting you have ever planned?” “I say it is the meeting for 12 board members because 12 board members is like 12 meetings at one time,” said Devitt, founder of the New York-based DND Group. Devitt’s response indicates the attention to detail required by a meeting of top leaders. Board members often have higher expectations than the average meeting attendee, which should inspire meeting planners to create events unlike anything these people have experienced before, said Devitt. Such events bring boards together to mix and mingle. Done well, they make the meeting more effective. Devitt can cite examples from her own experience, such as a board meeting she planned in the charming Berkshires region of Massachusetts. Igniting creative ideas was a goal, so the company bought out a small inn. Devitt knew all the board members, and she chose their rooms based on that knowledge. She asked the hotel’s chef to describe his dream meal, then had him prepare it: a seven-course chocolate-tasting menu with wines to complement each course. She added local culture by hiring a theater troupe to perform. After dinner, port wine, the lead executive’s favorite, and cheese were served in a salon as one of the actors recited sonnets. “You need to dig into what makes something unique and the talents of local people,” Devitt said. Granted, a generous budget is needed for some of those ideas. And yet, Devitt said, some of her biggest hits have been the least expensive. For example, to tie a board meeting to a local art museum, Devitt placed a coloring book and watercolors at place settings. Attendees loved the gifts; it gave them something to take home to their grandchildren. “Don’t be afraid to take risks with fun like $1 coloring books and $1 watercolor kits,” she said. Here are a few other things to keep in mind as you plan board meetings.

The Stage Must Sparkle

“It all starts with the venue — creating that stage, the theater of the meeting,” Devitt said. “How is that environment going to physically affect the attendees?” Make sure the venue measures up to board members’ lifestyles and expectations. “I’m going to presume that most live in a nice house, appreciate art, good wine and good food. They appreciate a good night’s rest and quality linens,” said

MeetingPoint

Devitt. Keep in mind, she said, that those with good taste have heightened senses. “Your senses are enhanced by the experiences you have had in cultivating them,” she said. Venues also must support the meeting’s purpose. An unorthodox setting might be a good choice to inspire innovation; a traditional setting better suits a meeting where business is more routine.

Consider Generational Differences

Different generations have different tastes, so consider the age of your board members. A board of baby boomers won’t mind sitting at a boardroom table, but a group of millennials or members of Generation X would likely prefer a more relaxed setting, like a circle of upholstered chairs.

Give Attention to the Smallest Details

Plan physical aspects to the smallest detail. Red pencils that echo the color of the company’s logo are a subtle way to reinforce the company’s identity.

Promote Good Health

Food and drink must be energizing and good for brain health. Ask the chef to come up with ideas. And instead of a group yoga class, offer individual personal trainers or instructors so board members can work out where and when it best suits them. Fitness options should also be available for spouses and significant others.

Take Local Touches Up Several Notches

Instead of a tour of Elvis’ Graceland, for example, offer both a tour and a talk with someone who knew or worked with the legendary singer. (Got Priscilla’s number?) If necessary, you could even do the talk by Skype. Include a gift that is tied to the event, like a CD or a book. For a meeting at a 1920s hotel, Devitt had period cocktails on the lawn and a local historian who talked about the hotel’s history. Each board member received a signed copy of the historian’s book. For more information, contact Devitt at dd@diannedevitt.com or visit www.diannedevitt.com. Vickie Mitchell is the former editor of Small Market Meetings. If you have ideas for future columns, contact her at vickie@smallmarketmeetings.com.

www.smallmarketmeetings.com

Understanding Industry Certifications Continuing education credentials can help career advancement By Savannah Osbourn

Many educational sessions at meetings industry conferences can be counted toward Certified Meeting Planner (CMP) credits.

t can be hard to keep up with the number of certification programs in the meetings industry, especially with so many similar designations such as Certified Facilities Executive, Certified Association Executive and Certified Special Events Professional. However, two prestigious certifications that every serious meeting professional should consider are the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) program and the Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM). While the CMP applies to basic knowledge of industry standards, practices and ethics, the CMM covers more specific topics such as leadership strategies and executive decision-making, appealing to ambitious individuals who hope to move more into larger leadership roles. To help you determine whether one of these certifications is right for you, we have highlighted several key characteristics of each program.

on meeting management. Planners must have at least three years of experience in the meetings industry to be eligible for the CMP program. “Both planners and suppliers are eligible to become CMPs,” said Kotowski. “It applies to meeting professionals of all stripes, from associations to corporate to third-party planners.” After their application is approved, candidates must complete 25 hours of continuing education, which can range from watching preapproved webinars to attending local seminars on related industry topics. Once they are ready to take the exam, candidates then locate the nearest EIC testing site, which partners with Prometric Testing. Prometric facilities are located within 60 miles of nearly 80 percent of the world’s population, so most people can find one in their area. Test takers must obtain a score of 55 to pass. “It’s certainly challenging, but it’s a good base for anyone who wants to work in the execution and delivery of meetings,” said Kotowski. The EIC also ensures the program’s credentials remain up-to-date with current industry practices by requiring CMP holders to renew their certification every five years. Meeting professionals in health and similar sciences may also want to consider acquiring the Certified Meeting Planner health care subspecialty (CMP-HC), which evaluates knowledge specific to the life sciences, since there are many unique rules and regulations that apply to planning meetings in the health care field. For newer planners, there may be some confusion about which programs provide a knowledge base about the meetings industry and

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)

Offered by the Events Industry Council (EIC), formerly known as the Convention Industry Council, the CMP is an internationally recognized program that evaluates the expertise of meeting professionals. At present, there are over 11,000 certified CMP planners in 55 countries around the world. “The CMP is probably the most well-known certification in the industry,” said Karen Kotowski, CEO of EIC. “In our 35-year history, we have certified more than 20,000 professionals.” Earning the CMP is a two-part process that begins with an application to prove one’s eligibility; that is then followed by a written exam

March 2018

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CMP certification requires 25 hours of classroom education.

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Managing Meetings

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which ones evaluate a pre-existing knowledge base. “The difference between a certification and a certificate program is that a certification is a third-party validation that you already have the skills and knowledge because you’re already a practitioner, whereas certificate programs are geared toward people with no experience,” said Kotowski. “If you’re a person interested in pursuing credentials, then look at the requirements, look at the materials — ensure that you understand whether it’s certification or certificate.”

Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM)

The CMM is another widely respected certificate program, supervised by Meeting Professionals International (MPI). A recent MPI member study revealed that the average salary of a meeting professional with a CMM is approximately $20,000 per year more than members with only a CMP and nearly $30,000 per year more than members with no credentials. “Our research has shown that people who hold one of those designations earn higher annual compensation,” said Matthew Marcial, vice president of education and events at Meeting Professionals International. “Acquiring certifications will allow every meeting professional advancement opportunities.” To apply for a CMM, candidates must submit a resume demonstrating at least seven years of professional experience in the meeting, event or business travel industry; three years of management experience; and two years of profit-and-loss responsibility. The application must also include a personal statement and a letter of recommendation from a professional colleague or supervisor.

www.smallmarketmeetings.com

DE E P R A C FERENCE

CON

DIEM

Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM) requires advanced industry experience anda three-anda-half-day education program. Once accepted, applicants then participate in an intensive threeand-a-half-day course led by faculty from the University of Virginia’s Barden School of Business and complete eight hours of advanced online coursework and a final capstone project. Thanks to the experience of the educators, the CMM program provides an opportunity for meeting executives to hone their leadership skills and business acumen. One advantage of working toward CMM and CMP certifications simultaneously is that the CMM coursework also counts toward the CMP’s 25 educational hours. MPI partners with the EIC to offer several of these supplementary courses, such as the Sustainable Meetings Professional Certificate, a four-hour CMP credit course on planning sustainable events, and the Healthcare Meeting Compliance Certificate (HMCC), a four-hour CMP credit course that covers global trends and regulations in the health care field. There are several other distinctions worth noting about the two programs. Once obtained, the CMM is a lifelong designation, whereas the CMP requires renewal every five years. The CMM can also require more of a time commitment because of the intensive three-day structure and coursework. In contrast, the CMP allows meeting professionals to study at their own pace and take the exam when they feel ready.

March 2018

The status quo doesn’t get to be extraordinary. But you do. Centrally located and insanely affordable, Nebraska’s capital has the venue selection, entertainment value, small-town hospitality, and big-city amenities that planners and attendees come home raving about.

Plan for more at

lincoln.org/meet.

Meet Me in the Vineyard

Wineries and breweries enjoy appealing meeting spaces By Savannah Osbourn

ineries and breweries often make popular choices as offsite venues, providing an unusual space for a cocktail reception, or a guided tour and tasting. But many wine and beer businesses are changing the game, adding larger and more fully equipped meeting space so that planners can take their entire program to the venue. Some locations offer lodging and full-scale restaurants, while others specialize in hands-on experiences such as chef’s tables, behind-the-scenes tours and classes on food and drink pairings. Before planning your next event, consider hosting your group at one of the following wineries and breweries.

The Inn at Grace Winery Glen Mills, Pennsylvania

Surrounded by the towering trees of Sweetwater Wood in Brandywine Valley, the Inn at Grace Winery provides a scenic retreat in one of Pennsylvania’s most historic regions. The beautiful 50-acre property can host anywhere from six to 140 guests at one of its distinct venues, which include an 18th-century Quaker manor house, a renovated malting barn and an outdoor amphitheater. The Barn at Grace Winery was originally used for malting barley and other grains into distilled spirits. In 2010, the structure was lovingly restored and transformed into a chic, rustic event space. Visitors will

Meeting Ideas

Courtesy Grace Winery

The Inn at Grace Winery features an 18th-century Quaker manor house.

notice repurposed materials throughout the building, such as sinks made from old horse troughs and a bar top created from steps that once lined the entrance of Independence Hall in Philadelphia. On the lower level of the barn, groups of 15 to 30 can dine surrounded by large, steel fermentation tanks, rows of oak barrels and the farm’s original kiln. “You can sit among the barrels and tanks, and depending on the day, you can even see the vintners making the wine,” said Elizabeth Clark, general manager of the winery. Planners can also make use of the main event space on the top floor of the barn, which accommodates up to 140 guests, or set up a relaxing reception on the back patio overlooking Sweetwater Woods. Built in 1734, the historic Quaker manor house features Georgian architecture and 15 elegant guest rooms. Over the years, it has served as a refuge for British soldiers following the Battle of Brandywine, a safe house along the Underground Railroad and, later, a Civil War infirmary. The manor’s speak-easy wine cellar is one of the most popular choices for corporate retreats. Smaller groups of six to 10 can make themselves at home as they sit down at a large, wooden barn table encircled by stone walls and then enjoy a five-course meal with handselected wine pairings from executive chef Scott Megill. www.gracewinery.com

www.smallmarketmeetings.com

Courtesy Chateau Ste. Michelle

Meeting groups can participate in wine-blending workshops at Chateau St. Michelle Winery.

Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery Woodinville, Washington

Celebrating over 50 years of excellence, Chateau Ste. Michelle cultivates European-style wines on a sweeping 105-acre property in eastern Washington around 20 miles northeast of Seattle. The winery is the oldest and most decorated winery in the state, encompassing several award-winning vineyards, the French-inspired Chateau and a historic manor house. “One of the things that really makes us stand out is the grounds,” said Piper Scalise, events manager at the winery. “We have beautiful, historic trees; ponds; fountains; and art. When attendees have the opportunity to get out of the banquet room and walk around, it adds that refreshing experience.” The Chateau can seat up to 200 guests in its expansive banquet room, which features a barrel-vaulted ceiling with chandeliers, a large fireplace and original artwork. Built in 1912, the historic manor house carries a sense of Old World charm and elegance through classic French windows that overlook a formal garden as well as colorful glassworks from renowned artisan Dale Chihuly. The house provides a charming setting for groups of 60 or fewer. In honor of Chateau Ste. Michelle’s 50th anniversary in 2017, the winery recently doubled the size of its visitors center, adding an

March 2018

80-seat theater, a new tasting room and an interactive blending room. “Even though the theater seats 80 people, it’s very intimate,” said Scalise. “It’s a very lovely space for people to use for meetings and events.” In the blending room, attendees get the chance to become winemakers for the day as they learn about the key elements of growing a successful vineyard and create their own signature blend to take home. The blending room can hold only 16 guests at a time, but planners can move the workshop into the theater or the banquet room to accommodate larger groups. Later in the evening, planners can organize a chef’s dinner and bring in a member of the winery’s experienced culinary team to talk about the preparation of the food and selected wine pairings. www.ste-michelle.com

Surly Brewing Minneapolis, Minnesota

Since opening in 2006, Surly Brewing has made quite an impact on the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. BeerAdvocate magazine named Surly Brewing the Best Brewery in America just 16 months after selling its first keg of beer. In 2011, the brewery helped push the Surly Bill into law, which repealed a Prohibition-era law that prevented

Courtesy Surly Brewing

The event space at Surly Brewing in the Twin Cities features floor-to-ceiling windows. breweries from selling beer in their own production facilities. A few years later, Surly Brewing opened a brand new multilevel facility with a state-of-the-art event center to host wedding receptions, corporate meetings and other events. “The really awesome thing about our space is that you’re not just renting part of a brewery — we have a full-service event center inside,” said Andrea Graham, senior events and brand experiences manager. On the second floor of the brewery, the event center can host 50 to 175 guests and offers a sweeping view of the Minneapolis skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. Planners can work with the on-site event planning team to smooth logistics, prepare a catering menu and set up the room, making the planning as simple as possible. “One of the main reasons we built the event center was because we wanted a place for our fans to celebrate milestones in their lives,” said Graham. Guests can also enjoy the beer hall downstairs, which features 24 beers on tap and famous Surly fare such as barbecue brisket and burgers. During the facility tour, groups wander through the heart of the brewhouse, the fermentation center and the packaging hall to see industrial machinery and canning lines up close. “Our tour guides are really fun,” said Graham. “A lot of them have been around since the beginning, so they can tell some great anecdotes.” www.surlybrewing.com

Sierra Nevada Taproom and Restaurant Mills River, North Carolina

Named after the Sierra Nevada mountain range near the original

Meeting Ideas

brewery site in Chico, California, Sierra Nevada Brewing opened its second location in Mills River, North Carolina, in 2014, allowing the brand to expand its reach to the East Coast. Building on a 40-year reputation for quality, bold-flavored brews, Sierra Nevada prides itself in operating as a Platinum LEED-certified facility with sustainable practices such as sending the brewery’s spent grain to local farmers and employing its own wastewater treatment. Many of the building’s wooden components came from trees that had to be cleared during the brewery’s construction. “The facility’s got a very rare, natural feel to it,” said Rhonda Fayssoux, the on-site events coordinator at the brewery. Unlike typical bar fare, Sierra Nevada Brewing sources most of its menu ingredients from local farms and its own Estate Garden and beehives. Groups can savor these farm-to-table dishes in one of the brewery’s private dining spaces. “We do a lot of corporate training events and appreciation dinners for customers or clients,” said Fayssoux. Planners can book the Taproom for smaller events or take advantage of the 225-seat event space upstairs, which functions more as a private catering facility with beautiful handmade wood furniture, a private lounge, a balcony, an event stage, a full-service bar and a shuffleboard table. During the immersive 45-minute brewery tour, guests can rub whole-cone hops in their hands, look into the whirling mash tun through an observation window and sample some sugary wort on its way to the fermentation tanks. The tour concludes with a complimentary beer tasting. www.sierranevada.com/brewery/north-carolina/taproom

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Courtesy Sierra Nevada Taproom

Sierra Nevada Taproom in North Carolina can host events for up to 225 guests seated.

March 2018

& Plan on meeting here

MEET, EXPLORE, CONNECT GREATER ONTARIO, CALIFORNIA A breathtaking contemporary state of the art venue with more than 225,000 square feet of flexible column-free exhibit, meeting and function space, the Ontario Convention Center is ideal for conventions, trade shows, exhibits and meetings. Located just 2 miles from Ontario International Airport with access to a variety of hotel and dining options within walking distance, the center is frequently used by filmmakers as an on-site location for movies and commercials. • 225,000 total square feet with a 70,000 square foot column free exhibition hall • Full range of technology services • Award winning Executive Chef and service excellence • Over 6,000 hotel rooms available in Greater Ontario • Complimentary hotel parking and shuttle service For meeting needs of all sizes – from a conference room to a citywide convention utilizing the Ontario Convention Center – or for a special exposition or sporting event, the Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau will provide the necessary destination support tools to execute a successful experience.

For more information on planning your next adventure, visit GOcvb.org 800.455.5755

Meeting Ideas

Courtesy Sierra Nevada Taproom

The restaurant at Sierra Nevada Taproom features ingredients sourced from regional farms.

The Knickerbocker Grand Rapids, Michigan

New Holland Brewing brews and distills at three locations in the Grand Rapids area: a production facility on the north side, a pub and restaurant in downtown Holland, and a brand-new brewpub and distillery, the Knickerbocker, on Grand Rapids’ historic west side. The Knickerbocker offers an extensive listing of craft beer, wine, cider, cocktails and seasonal dishes made from scratch, providing something to satisfy everyone’s palate. “It’s a unique Michigan experience to try our handcrafted beer,” said Megan LaSorsa, director of retail marketing for the company. The Knickerbocker offers five flexible meeting venues to accommodate the needs of every group. The Bride Street Beer Garden creates a fresh open-air setting for up to 125 guests; the Barrell Stave Loft on the second floor can accommodate another 125 guests. The Trees is a spacious 125-seat indoor beer hall aptly named after the towering artificial trees that line the room. Smaller groups can enjoy more intimate space in the Zeppelin Lounge cocktail bar or the Butcher’s Table private dining room. “There are so many ways to divide the space. It could be a corporate meeting, a happy hour cocktail party, a plated dinner — we have so many configurations available,” said LaSorsa. For an exclusive after-hours event, planners can work with the brewery to set up pairing stations with savory appetizers and spirits, or organize a guided tour through the distilling and brewing facilities. “We’re both a distillery and a brewery, so it’s exciting to see how those two operations interact with each other,” said LaSorsa. www.newhollandbrew.com/knickerbocker

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Courtesy New Holland Brewing

The Tree, a space at the Knickerbocker in Grand Rapids, is a 125-seat indoor beer hall.

March 2018

A CAPITAL DESTINATION By Savannah Osbourn

Lansing draws mee tings to Michigan with a host of amenities

The Michigan State Marching Band can add some school spirit to events in the Lansing area.

Destination Showcase

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“Many people at the events we host want that access — to be able to go out in the lobby and speak with a legislator that has an impact on their industry.”

ichigan’s vibrant state capital of Lansing is a meeting plannationally recognized certification program that trains front-line hosner’s dream, yielding everything from arts and culture to pitality workers, restaurant servers, hotel clerks and other attraction scenic city trails and versatile constaff in professional customer-service skills. ference space. Thanks to its central location, According to Padot, Lansing has over 500 tourthe city is within a 90-minute drive of 90 ism ambassadors. percent of the state, including the Detroit “All the attractions offer a great visitor expeMetropolitan Airport and the Capital Region rience because the staff are trained in cusInternational Airport. tomer service skills and history about the With Michigan State University and the region,” said Padot. state Capitol right on its doorstep, Lansing is Major Meeting Venues home to some of the region’s most influential The Lansing Center is the largest meeting legislators, scientists, artists and athletes, givfacility in the Capital Region, offering beautiing planners the chance to boost attendance to ful waterfront views, proximity to downtown their event by bringing in powerful keynote attractions and a connecting skybridge to the speakers. Radisson Hotel. Its primary exhibit floor fea“Many people at the events we host want tures 71,760 square feet of column-free space that access — to be able to go out in the lobby in addition to 13,320 square feet of ballroom and speak with a legislator that has an impact space and 12,038 square feet of meeting space on their industry,” said Tracy Padot, vice presiin 12 breakout rooms. Planners can take dent of marketing communications at the advantage of the on-site catering team to help Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors organize banquet meals, bar services, snack Bureau. Michigan’s Capitol stations and more. Designated a National Historic Landmark, Based on the Michigan State University Michigan’s Capitol was one of the first state All photos courtesy Greater Lansing CVB unless otherwise noted campus, the Kellogg Hotel and Conference capitols topped with a cast-iron dome, and Center has 35,000 square feet of flexible funcgroups can tour the building to admire the art tion space, along with high-speed internet and and architecture, or perhaps witness an active LOCATION free airport shuttle services. Many of the prolegislative session. Michigan State University is Central Michigan fessional staff in the hotel also help train colone of the top research universities in the ACCESS lege students in the Michigan State University world, as well as one of the largest and most Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Capital Regional School of Hospitality. eco-friendly campuses in the United States. International Airport, Interstate 96, The Causeway Bay Lansing Hotel and After hours, visitors will discover abundant Interstate 69, U.S. Highway 127 Convention Center is conveniently located six restaurants, galleries, theaters and museums miles from Michigan State University and 10 throughout the city. Groups can take a glassMAJOR MEETING SPACES miles from the Capital Region International blowing workshop at Fireworks Glass Studios, Lansing Center, Michigan State University Airport, and provides 30,000 square feet of enjoy a multicourse feast and performance at Pavilion, Causeway Bay Lansing Hotel and meeting space for conventions and other Starlight Dinner Theatre, or sip on cocktails Convention Center, events. During their stay, guests can enjoy while learning to paint at Paintings With a Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center, garden or courtyard views from the rooms, Twist, an art party studio for adults. There are Crown Plaza Lansing West, complimentary Wi-Fi, a continental breakfast, also many guided experiences to check out, Ramada Lansing Hotel and Conference Center, a sauna, a yoga room, a hot tub and a fitness such as pub crawls, gallery tours and cycling East Lansing Marriott at University Place center. tours. HOTEL ROOMS The Crown Plaza Lansing West offers 17,335 The Lansing River Walk provides a way for 4,500 square feet of meeting space and several spevisitors to explore the vast range of attractions OFFSITE VENUES cial incentives for planners, such as a twoin the area; walkers can follow a 20-mile Michigan Princess Riverboat, R.E. Olds hour response guarantee for RFPs, a consistent paved trail system along the Grand River and Transportation Museum, Michigan History point of contact throughout the event and a the Red Cedar River. Groups can also rent kayCenter, Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum, daily debriefing on expenses to help planners aks or canoes from Rivertown Adventures and Lansing Brewing Company stay on budget. Altogether, the hotel’s 17 meetenjoy the city sights as they paddle down the CONTACT INFO ing rooms can host up to 1,000 guests. Grand River right into the heart of downtown. Greater Lansing CVB Adjacent to Spartan Stadium and the Another characteristic that sets Lansing 517-487-6800 Wharton Center for the Performing Arts, the apart is its Tourism Ambassador Program, a www.lansing.org

Lansing, Michigan

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The primary ballroom at the Lansing Center has more than 13,000 square feet of space.

“All the attractions offer a great visitor experience because the staff are trained in customer service skills and history about the region.” East Lansing Marriott at University Place offers 12,927 square feet of meeting space and 10 breakout rooms. Meeting attendees can stop by the on-site business center for printing documents and sending emails. The Michigan State University Pavilion has a 2,000-seat arena, a 364seat auditorium and a 77,000-square-foot exhibit area; it is used primarily for livestock shows, demonstrations and concerts. The Ramada Lansing Hotel and Conference Center is near the Capital Region International Airport off Interstate 96. Though smaller than some nearby hotel convention centers, the hotel welcomes pets, is affordably priced and is close to the airport. The hotel’s 10 flexible meeting rooms can be rearranged to accommodate 1,200 conference guests or 350 banquet guests.

Destination Showcase

Signature Attractions

One of the city’s most unique attractions is the Michigan Princess Riverboat, a replica 19th-century steamboat that docks in Grand River Park. The triple-deck riverboat allows guests to travel back in time as they drift down the river enjoying live music, cocktails, dancing and fine dining. Many groups rent the boat for themed events and afterhours receptions. The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum commemorates the history of Oldsmobile vehicles, an American car brand founded by Ransom E. Olds, and features over 60 vintage Oldsmobile models from 1886 to 2003. Planners can organize a small meeting or event in a charming 25-seat boardroom with exposed beams, and the meeting can be followed by a guided tour of the museum. History buffs will appreciate a trip to the Michigan History Museum,

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Courtesy Lansing Lugnuts

The View is a private meeting space at Lansing’s minor league baseball stadium.

a five-level, world-class museum that explores Michigan’s rich history from the prehistoric era to the 1970s. The facility provides an excellent venue for corporate events and banquets where guests can dine among impressive exhibits such as a reproduced 1870s copper mine, statues of Paleo-Indian hunters and a four-story map of Michigan, accompanied by costumed museum staff. The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum at Michigan State University is another of Lansing’s must-see attractions. Designed by Pritzker Prizewinning architect Zaha Hadid, the contemporary art museum presents an incredible exterior facade of pleated stainless steel and glass, reminiscent of an accordion collapsed on its side. Some rooms inside the sleek, modern facility were featured in the 2016 film “Batman vs. Superman” as the villain Lex Luthor’s mansion. Planners can choose from several exquisite venues throughout the museum to host a mem-

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orable after-hours cocktail party or reception. The colorful lobby and cafe on the main level will hold around 225 guests, and the upstairs lobby can host 25 to 45 guests. The education wing accommodates up to 120 guests in a stylish, well-lit space with paneled glass walls. Of the 18 wineries, breweries and distilleries that span the area, the Lansing Brewing Company is one of the best-known establishments. The brewery was one of Lansing’s first breweries during the early 1900s, serving beer to the hardworking laborers and tradesmen who built the city’s earliest modern structures. Its signature offering is its Amber Cream Ale. The brewery’s industrial-style Stockhouse provides a oneof-a-kind setting for group events, hosting up to 240 guests; the more intimate Meeting Room seats around 44 guests.

Florida’s Colonial Coast By Katherine Tandy Brown

All photos courtesy St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches CVB

Above: The St. Augustine area offers numerous opportunities for waterfront golf. Left: Groups meeting in St. Augustine can enjoy downtime in nearby beach communities.

S T . A U G U S T I N E, F L O R I D A LOCATION Northeast Florida’s Atlantic Coast ACCESS Jacksonville International Airport, Northeast Florida Regional Airport, Daytona International Airport, Orlando International Airport, Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1 MAJOR MEETING SPACES Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa, World Golf Village Renaissance Resort/St. Johns County Convention Center, Hammock Beach Resort, Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, Casa Monica Resort and Spa, Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort (opening August 2018) HOTEL ROOMS 6,312 in St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra OFF-SITE VENUES TPC Sawgrass, World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum, Ponte Vedra Concert Hall, St. Augustine Amphitheatre, Lightner Museum, Treasury on the Plaza CONTACT INFO St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau 800-418-7529 www.floridashistoriccoast.com

Destination Showcase

ooking for the Fountain of Youth in 1513, Juan Ponce de Leon happened upon wild, lovely Atlantic coastal land that he named Le Florida. Begun as a Spanish settlement in 1565, St. Augustine is the country’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Today, the community’s cobblestone streets mix Spanish, English and French architecture, reflecting a fascinating past. “St. Augustine is an authentic destination,” said William McBroom, director of conference sales for the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau. “Many places are built to attract tourists. Instead, ours takes you back to a different era. You get a true Colonial feel in an American city. A lot of its initial layout hasn’t changed, and 1500s-era buildings remain. It keeps things in perspective.” Even some of the city’s attractions are old. The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, with dozens of strolling peacocks and a 1,000-capacity events pavilion, and the Alligator Farm — with all 24 species of crocodilian, a rookery for up-close photo ops and a zip line for team building — were both begun in the 1800s. However, this tradition-rich city embraces the new. A case in point is the underconstruction Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort, due to open August 1. Snuggled between the St. John’s County Pier Park and the 1,600-acre Anastasia State Park, the city’s first true beachfront property will have 175 two-room suites, 7,000 square feet of event space and a free shuttle to the Historic District. “We’ll bring an upscale class of service that’s currently not available on the beach,” said Chris Pranis, the property’s director of sales and marketing. Marketed as Florida’s Historic Coast, St. Johns County encompasses St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra Beach and “the Beaches” — 42 miles of snowy Atlantic Ocean sand. For example, south of St. Augustine in Palm Coast, the 330-room Hammock Beach Resort added a lobby bar and returfed its Jack Nicklaus-designed Oceanfront Course. Its multilevel water park encourages attendees to bring their families. At St. Augustine Aquarium, Snorkel Adventure and Zipline, a new Florida marine attraction, guests get to snorkel with sharks and stingrays. “St. Augustine is safe and friendly,” said McBroom. “You can walk across the Historic District in 15 to 20 minutes. All this, and we’re essentially on the ocean.”

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Costumed interpreters welcome groups to historic Castillo de San Marcos.

Major Meeting Venues

World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum

A 30-minute drive from downtown St. Augustine, the splendid Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort and Spa has 524 guest rooms, 61,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting space, four pools and an oceanfront beach club. A recent $25 million refresh increased guest room size and added premium service rooms with VIP access to adjacent The Players Club (TPC) Sawgrass’ two championship golf courses. “Most of our resorts have two courses,” said McBroom. And 301room World Golf Village Renaissance Resort/St. Johns County Convention Center is no exception. In addition, the property adds another 60,000 square feet of gathering space. Attendees can relax at Spa World Golf Village, a short shuttle ride away.

A golfing mecca, Florida’s Historic Coast is home to the PGA’s corporate headquarters in Ponte Vedra Beach. Its PGA Golf Tour Academy and World Golf Hall of Fame and Museum are in St. Augustine at World Golf Village, as is the (Bill) Murray Brothers’ Caddyshack Restaurant. Along with historic memorabilia, the 35,000-square-foot museum has a 132-yard challenge hole with monthly closest-to-thehole winners, an 18-hole natural putting course and 13 event spaces. Each May, the TPC Sawgrass hosts the TPC Championship. Its iconic Stadium Course boasts one of the most difficult holes in the world, the 17th-hole “island green,” and its clubhouse can accommodate 1,000-plus in 13,000 square feet of meeting space.

Off-site Venues

Tours

St. Johns County has off-site options galore. Set on nature-filled Anastasia Island, the 4,000-seat St. Augustine Amphitheatre offers arts and recreation, plus indoor and outdoor meeting spaces. Another performing arts facility, the 900-seat, elegant Ponte Vedra Concert Hall on scenic highway A1A, can flex to also accommodate 450 theater-style and 140 for a banquet. Housed in the former circa-1888, Henry Flagler-built Alcazar Hotel, the Lightner Museum, known for fine 19th-century art, can hold 50 to 400 guests in an art-filled, airy reception hall. And in downtown St. Augustine, the Treasury on the Plaza, once a 1927 bank, provides opulent event space for 250.

St. Augustine’s array of fascinating tours keep attendees and/or spouses well entertained. Showcasing the area’s history, the Pirate Melee begins on a city trolley tour that’s hijacked by pirates, who then add magic and music to a group dinner for 25 or more. Food plus wine or beer take center stage on the Tasting Tours’ threehour nibbling and sipping strolls, voted by Travel and Leisure as St. Augustine’s best. Options include a progressive dine-around, culinary team-building for up to 75 and a haunted “frightseeing” tour. Florida Waters Tours can take 49 guests on ghost cruises or on nonhaunted eco-excursions, dolphin tours and sunset sails.

March 2018

The Grande Dame of Excelsior Springs By Kristy Alpert

he story of the Elms Springs Hotel and Spa in Excelsior Springs, Missouri, begins with a simple drop of water. The year was 1880, and the region was just beginning to heal from the wounds of the Civil War. One resident, however, wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t so lucky, having come down with an incurable case of tuberculosis. Opal Mellion was only a child when she was diagnosed, and her father, a local farmer, looked to the land for a cure for his daughter. He bathed Opal in the spring waters of the area, and after a regimen of drinking and bathing in the waters, Opal began to improve and, eventually, was cured of her affliction. Word of the waters trickled throughout the country, and soon the area was inundated with a wide range of visitors, from wounded Civil War veterans to weary travelers, looking to soak in the healing waters. In 1888, the first Elms Hotel was constructed on the site, and it quickly became the haute haunt for hosting grand balls and galas in the area. The wooden structure was devastated in a fire

Hospitality Showcase

All photos courtesy Elms Springs Hotel and Spa

10 years later, and the land sat unused until the second Elms Hotel opened July 31, 1909. Sadly, the second edition of the hotel suffered the same fate and was burned in 1910. Not to be defeated, owners began planning for a third version of the hotel just three months after the fire. On September 7, 1912, the current Elms Springs Hotel and Spa opened. It was constructed of native limestone and materials that would stand the test of time, and over the years, played host to a number of celebrity clientele â&#x20AC;&#x201D; including Harry Truman, Al Capone and Jack Dempsey. The historic hotel underwent a final $20 million renovation in 2011 to bring it into the 21st century. The hotel remains the grande dame of hospitality it has always been, but now, under the leadership of Widewaters Hotel Management, it also offers guests the lavish amenities and impeccable service of a modern hotel. With 16 acres of pristine resort grounds and 11,000 square feet of event space, the 153-room hotel is primed for hosting events of all sizes.

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Meeting Spaces The Elms Hotel and Spa features more than 11,000 square feet of event space, with nine event rooms suitable for everything from grand balls to breakout sessions. The Elms Grand Ballroom is the largest of the ballrooms, accommodating up to 450 guests, and the Regent Ballroom is only slightly smaller, accommodating up to 300 guests. Other rooms include the Excelsior, the Empire and the Saratoga, each holding up to 50 guests, and the Restaurant, which holds up to 88 guests. Meeting planners can also reserve outdoor event spaces on the patio and the pool deck, and in the fire pit area and the gazebo.

Elms Springs Hotel and Spa Location Excelsior Springs, Missouri Size 153 rooms Meeting Space More than 11,000 square feet Access 30 miles from Kansas City International Airport Contact Info 800-843-3567 www.elmshotelandspa.com

Entertainment Before or after meetings, guests can explore the 16 acres of manicured resort grounds, lounge around the outdoor fire pit area or relax by the indoor or outdoor hot tubs. The hotel offers movies on the lawn during good weather as well as bocce ball, badminton and shuffleboard courts. The seasonal outdoor swimming pool is a good spot for enjoying weekend poolside cocktails, and during the cooler months, guests can head indoors to soak in the indoor European lap pool. The highlight for many guests is the 25,000-square-foot spa, which includes the Grotto, a modern take on a traditional Roman bath.

March 2018

Catering The hotel offers a dedicated catering and convention services department that caters to meeting guests’ needs with a range of prearranged day meeting packages, breaks, and breakfast, lunch, dinner and bar menus. The catering team also creates customized menus to meet each group’s budget or taste. Breakfast and brunch menus aren’t complete without the hotel’s freshly brewed Roasterie Elms Blend coffee, and guests rave about the elaborate omelet station. A range of displays, stations and passed appetizers are available for receptions, and plated dinners range from healthful seafood options to the famous Kansas City Strip steak. Alcohol is available.

Extras Left: An intimate boardroom at the Elms Springs Hotel overlooks a larger ballroom. Right: Guests can unwind between meetings in an indoor lap pool. Opposite page: The Elms Springs Hotel has long been a destination for healing and relaxation.

The hotel features complimentary high-speed internet access throughout the property as well as audiovisual services within the meeting spaces, and meeting planners will have direct access to a dedicated event coordinator on-site. Although the hotel offers complimentary parking, valet service is available. The hotel welcomes pets, offers room service in all of the 153 luxury guest rooms and suites, and has an on-call concierge that is available to recommend dining and entertainment options in the area, as well as help planners coordinate team-building activities and retreat itineraries on-site.

Vintage Texas in Grapevine

By Kristy Alpert

ime travel may still be a work of science fiction in other parts of the world, but in Grapevine, Texas, two legendary Texans take guests along for a wild journey back in time — and they do it every week. Puffy, an 1896 steam engine, and Vinny, a 1953 diesel engine, are the two historic locomotives that make their home at the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. Each week the engines attach to a string of 1920s Victorian coaches to transport guests along the Historic Cotton Belt Route for an experience that feels like taking a journey through time. “One of my favorite things about the excursion train is the authentic 1896 steam locomotive,” said Brian Gentry, train sales manager for the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. “It’s a special sight to see. I also enjoy meeting the many wonderful passengers that travel from all over the world to experience the Grapevine Vintage Railroad.” The railroad operates on a seasonal schedule where passengers board at the Grapevine station and take their seats in either First ($26) or Touring ($18) class for a journey along what was once known as the Tarantula Train route. The route takes guests to the Fort Worth Stockyards and then continues along the Trinity River and finally back to the station in Grapevine. Along with a series of special journeys, including a Thomas the Tank Engine, a wine and jazz experience with local musicians and wines, and a North Pole Express experience, the Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Venue Showcase

Photos courtesy Grapevine Vintage Railroad

Above: Grapevine Vintage Railroad features historic steam engines. Left: Small groups can have exclusive wine events aboard the train. also offers customized experiences for groups. The trains are available for private charter, where the railroad staff will help turn the coaches into a nontraditional meeting venue for team building, networking or just unwinding together as a group. The climate-controlled coaches are suitable for memorable group outings, and the team at the railroad will help meeting planners transform the experience into anything from a Wild West event with costumed performers to a gastronomic fete with catering and bartender recommendations.

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Meeting Spaces The Grapevine Vintage Railroad offers six of the 1920s Victorian coaches for private charter. When rented out in its entirety, the train can accommodate up to 394 guests, who can move freely between the coaches throughout the excursion. The train can be rented out for a mobile event or for a stationary event to create an unusual backdrop for meetings.

There is a two-coach minimum rental for private charters, and additional coaches are added for an extra fee. Each climate-controlled coach offers a different seating arrangement. Coach 209 comfortably seats 40 people; coaches 206, 207 and 208 can accommodate 66 people; and coaches 1808 and 1818 can accommodate 78 guests.

Dining Car During regularly operated trips, the dining car offers a snack selection of popcorn, hot dogs and soft drinks for guests to enjoy during the journey. For private events, the staff recommends groups arrange menus with one of the local restaurant partners to provide their guests with a moveable feast. The

Grapevine Vintage Railroad partners with a vast array of local restaurants and cafes that range from budget options to gourmet eateries. Groups can bring their own alcohol or purchase it as part of their catering order, but all alcohol must be served by a state-certified bartender.

Entertainment

Grapevine Vintage Railroad

The Grapevine Vintage Railroad partners exclusively with Lagniappe Productions, a Western-themed entertainment company that specializes in award-winning comedy productions, line dance instruction, stunt shows, murder mysteries, Old West photo booths, team building, Western music and more. Meeting planners can arrange for

onboard entertainment with costumed cowboys and saloon girls to host their own murder mystery evenings or arrange for their guests to get surprised by a staged gunfight during the journey. The company can also arrange teambuilding activities that ensure guests go home more unified than when they departed.

LOCATION Grapevine, Texas

TYPE OF VENUE Off-site, railroad

CAPACITY 94

NEARBY ACCOMMODATIONS Embassy Suites by Hilton — DFW Airport North

CONTACT INFO

817-410-3185 www.grapevinevintagerailroad.com

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Extra Touches The Grapevine Vintage Railroad has everything a meeting planner could desire, from climate-controlled first-class coaches with Victorian-style upholstered seating to two touring-class coaches — touring class is enclosed and heated during the winter months and open air during the warmer months —

that offer vintage woodenbacked, bench-style seating. The coaches feature four onboard restrooms with three bars, two complete with coolers. The train also comes with a PA system. Many of the seats are multidirectional, giving groups of four the ability to face one another.

Historic Maryland Venues By Rachel Carter

Courtesy Inn at Perry Cabin

Rooms at the 1816 Inn at Perry Cabin overlook the Miles River.

eeting planners have a love-hate relationship with historic venues. Some planners love the rich past of historic properties and providing their attendees with a storied setting.

Other planners worry that “historic” is merely a marketing term and that such venues don’t have the updated technology and modern conveniences they need. But these historic Maryland venues deliver the best of both worlds: a past worth preserving along with state-of-the-art amenities.

Historic Inns of Annapolis Annapolis

When George Washington was traveling from Mount Vernon, Virginia, to Philadelphia during the American Revolution, he often stopped at the Maryland Inn in Annapolis to eat, rest, socialize and have his horse groomed. The three hotels that make up the Historic Inns of Annapolis are awash in history. The original Governor Calvert House dates to 1695. The Maryland Inn has hosted U.S. presidents, legislators and foreign dignitaries since the late 1700s. The Robert Johnson House is a grand brick home that was built in 1773. The three properties are within a short walk of each other around State Circle and operate as one hotel. In January 2016, the hotel completed a renovation of all

Maryland Meeting Guide

guest rooms and public areas, as well as most of the meeting space, keeping the historic feel but upgrading technology and amenities, said Erin Stolle, area director of sales and marketing. The 52-room Governor Calvert House has about 7,500 square feet of flexible meeting space. The 2,400-squarefoot Governor’s Hall can be split into three rooms that open onto a terrace. An atrium and a prefunction area divide the hall from five conference rooms. The 44-room Maryland Inn has another 2,800 square feet of function space, the largest of which is the inn’s original 1,000-square-foot ballroom. The 29-room Robert Johnson House does not have meeting space. Groups can use both the Treaty of Paris Restaurant and the Drummer’s Lot Pub for private events, and hotel staff also provide historic tours for meeting groups. www.historicinnsofannapolis.com

Waterfront Kent Manor Inn Stevensville

The Waterfront Kent Manor Inn sits on 230 acres only 15 miles east of Annapolis, just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. However, the manor also has a one-mile

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By Karmen Osei, courtesy Visit Howard Co.

Groups will find handmade goods and meeting space at Historic Savage Mill in Savage. driveway, so “once they come in those gates, they get the feeling they’re in paradise,” said Christine Phillips, director of group sales and marketing for the inn. “It seems to be very secluded, but it’s super easy to get to.” The original 1820 section is still the leftmost part of the inn today, but the current center portion of the house was built around 1860. New owners bought the inn last year and are investing heavily to refresh, repair, restore and “bring the property back to its former glory,” she said. The Coakley Williams Hotel Management Company took over management in March and is bringing in a new general manager and executive chef. Two meeting rooms in the historic manor house, one with 350 square feet and the other with 530 square feet, have fireplaces and original architectural details. Guests enjoy water views from the octagonal 2,600-squarefoot Garden House that can seat 150 for meals. The Preserve, an 8,000-square-foot stand-alone venue, is under construction to add a catering kitchen and bathrooms, a project that should be complete this fall. The inn also has an outdoor waterfront deck that seats 60.

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While the inn has only 24 guest rooms, Phillips often partners with nearby hotels for lodging. At the manor, planners and attendees can play horseshoes, cornhole and volleyball; go kayaking; and gather around the outdoor fireplace. www.kentmanor.com

Great Room at Historic Savage Mill Savage

The Savage Mill operated as a textile mill between 1822 and 1947 and eventually became a sort of company town with a community hall and town homes for workers, its own power plant and even its own Methodist church. Though the mill no longer makes fabrics, the Historic Savage Mill complex has been resurrected as a hub for all things handmade: Art galleries and artist studios, clothing boutiques and jewelry shops, a chocolatier, a bakery and a tavern are all housed in the mill’s former cotton, carding and weaving buildings. The Great Room at Historic Savage Mill is a 5,000-square-foot space in the Old Weave Building. The room has 14-foot-tall windows, many of them with

Baltimore. The original house, which was built in the Federal style, is today a mix of Federal, Greek Revival and Colonial Revival architecture. “It’s the historic nature that draws [events], and I think it’s also the quaintness of the space, and it’s private,” said Lori Tracy, event and facility manager. The manor house sits on a couple of acres in a residential area, and a long driveway leads to its front entrance, but “we’re right in downtown,” she said. The building serves as both an event venue and a community center for the Columbia area villages. The sprawling house has a range of rooms for events with five to 80 people, or the entire house can be used for events with up to 170 people, although the group would be broken up in different spaces, Tracy said. Meetings can also use one room for its main event and other rooms for breakout spaces. The Main Ballroom can seat 80 for meals and has four glass doors that lead to an enclosed veranda. The Magnolia Room can seat about 60 at rounds, and the Town Center Room can accommodate events for up to 50 guests. Groups also have access to a 40-person conference room, a 12-person boardroom and a library. From March to November, groups with up to 175 guests can also use the back-patio event tent. www.historic-oakland.com

Inn at Perry Cabin by Belmond St. Michaels

Courtesy Waterfront Kent Manor Inn

The Waterfront Kent Manor Inn on the Chesapeake Bay was first built in 1820. original wavy glass, and high ceilings with exposed pipes and beams. A large adjoining deck overlooks the Little Patuxent River and the nation’s sole surviving Bollman Truss Bridge. People like the space “because it’s so different; it’s not your typical conference room,” said Angie Wise, manager of the Great Room at Historic Savage Mill. The Historic Savage Mill Manor is also available for event rentals. The Victorian home was built in 1844 as the superintendent’s residence. Groups can use the large ballroom as well as the first floor, which can accommodate up to 110 guests. Attendees can explore the mill during breaks, take a self-guided walking tour or arrange for ghost walks. www.greatroomsavagemill.com

Historic Oakland Columbia

A Maryland legislator built Oakland manor in 1811 as a country home to supplement his town home in

Maryland Meeting Guide

The Inn at Perry Cabin was built in 1816 on the banks of Miles River, and the original Colonial Revival-style building is now the north wing of the manor, which has been expanded over the past two centuries. To mark its bicentennial, the Belmond property just wrapped up a refresh that updated all 78 guest rooms and public spaces, including conference and event facilities, while maintaining its historic charm. The 1,500-square-foot Commodore Ballroom, with exposed-beam cathedral ceilings and a stone hearth fireplace, can accommodate 100 guests. With wood paneling and water views, the Admiral Room welcomes meetings for up to 40 people, and the Niagara and Lawrence rooms can be used separately or combined for up to 40 attendees. The inn’s 200-year-old manicured gardens are another favorite for guests, who can also explore the greenhouse as well as a new cutting garden behind it. Groups can play bocce ball and croquet, arrange for a yoga class by the water’s edge and will soon be able to play a set on the resort’s new tennis courts. Instead of driving across the bay on the bridge, guests can now sail into St. Michaels on the inn’s new luxury 55-foot Hinckley yacht, named Five Star. The hotel’s sailing academy also offers private and chartered cruises and sailing classes. Groups can also go fishing, dredge for oysters and learn how to build a boat next door at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. www.belmond.com

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Maryland’s Campus Charm By Rachel Carter

Courtesy Salisbury University

Holloway Hall, the oldest building at Salisbury University, can seat over 700 meeting attendees.

aybe it’s the beautiful collegiate setting with large lawns, paved paths and towering trees. Maybe it’s the youthful energy and young vibe from student life.

March 2018

But above all, meeting and conference planners “are drawn to a university just because it’s a place of learning,” said Lesley Staffeldt, director of conference planning and facilities for Salisbury University. These Maryland colleges and universities offer meeting planners one-stop shops for meeting facilities, food and beverage service and help with speakers and activities.

Salisbury University Salisbury

The city of Salisbury sits only 30 miles inland from Maryland’s popular Ocean City. Salisbury University’s proximity to the Atlantic shore is a draw for planners and attendees who want to turn a conference or business meeting into a vacation — but the school has plenty more to offer. “Our campus is absolutely gorgeous,” Staffeldt said. The entire campus is a national arboretum, and the school has invested more than $350 million in new and updated campus facilities over the past few years, “so we have new spaces to show off.” The university’s newer Guerrieri Academic Commons building has an event space on the fourth floor overlooking the hub of the campus and offering views of the city. The 5,300-square-foot Assembly Hall has an entire wall of glass and an adjoining outdoor terrace for groups of about 400. The Commons Building and the Guerrieri Student Union are the most-used venues for meetings. The 5,500-square-foot Dorchester Room in the Commons

Building can seat 350 for meals and has floor-to-ceiling glass windows. The student union has several conference and function rooms, the largest of which can seat 250 for meals. Built in 1925, Holloway Hall is the oldest building on campus, and its 711-seat auditorium has been modernized with its original architectural features maintained. In 2016, Salisbury also wrapped up a major redesign and expansion of its 5,000-seat Sea Gull Stadium. The stadium now has suites that work well for small retreats of up to 15 people. www.salisbury.edu

University of Maryland, College Park College Park

The University of Maryland, College Park is the flagship campus of the 12-school University System of Maryland. Planners bring their events to UMD for “the wonderful facilities we have on campus, the community we’re in and our proximity to Washington, D.C.; Baltimore; and Annapolis,” said Tom Flynn, director of conferences and visitor services. With 35,000 undergrad students, 1,300 acres and a wide variety of venues, “we have something for everything,” he said. The Adele H. Stamp Student Union, or simply “the Stamp,” is “our go-to,” with 18 meeting rooms, including the 8,800-square-foot Grand Ballroom that can seat 450 for banquets. The Colony Ballroom has 6,480 square feet, and the Stamp also offers the 500-fixed-seat Hoff Theater.

up their flip charts and go outside and have a whole different learning experience,” she said. But if a planner wants to explore Baltimore one night, “they can do that very easily, too.” University Union has nearly 23,500 square feet of function space, including two large ballrooms and another eight rooms for smaller events or breakout space. The Chesapeake Room on the third floor can seat 342 guests for meals, and the second-floor Potomac Lounge can seat 286 for dinners. The West Village Commons has 10,000 square feet of meeting space, including a ballroom that can accommodate up to 400 for banquets or be divided into three smaller rooms. On the southwest edge of campus, Secu Arena seats 5,200 for sporting events, concerts and keynote speakers, but the arena floor also transforms into a banquet venue for up to 1,000 guests. Two on-campus pavilions, one climate controlled, work well for barbecues and picnics. While meeting on campus, planners can use Towson’s climbing wall or low-ropes challenge course for teambuilding activities. Groups can also arrange campus tours, scavenger hunts and geocaching expeditions. www.towson.edu Courtesy Towson University

Secu Arena at Townson University can serve as an entertainment venue or banquet space. At the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, planners have their choice of six theater venues, among them an 86-seat black-box theater and the cathedrallike Elsie and Marvin Dekelboum Concert Hall, with 962 seats and a 134-seat choir loft. The Samuel Riggs IV Alumni Center’s 7,270-squarefoot alumni hall can seat 500 for banquets or be split into three smaller spaces, and the center provides a range of conference rooms, club lounges and outdoor terraces. The Hotel at the University of Maryland opened in September directly across the street from the campus’ main entrance. The full-service luxury hotel has 297 guest rooms and suites, as well as its own 43,000 square feet of conference space in 18 event spaces, including three ballrooms. www.umd.edu

Towson University Towson

Towson University sits less than 10 miles due north of Baltimore, but the campus also sits on more than 300 lush acres. “I like to say we are city close and campus quiet,” said Jeannie Deckelbaum, associate director of event and conference services. Attendees enjoy trees and green space on the parklike campus, which makes it “easy for organizers to pick

Maryland Meeting Guide

University of Maryland Eastern Shore Princess Anne

Groups that gather at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in Princess Anne “get a college experience, if only for 10 minutes by walking on our campus, and it’s a beautiful campus,” said La Fabian Marshall, general manager of the Richard A. Henson Hotel and Conference Center. Although it’s a smaller school in a smaller community, UMES has plenty of options for meetings and conferences. The Student Services Center has a ballroom that can accommodate about 500 attendees for seated meals. The center also has conference rooms that can each hold about 50 people, a multipurpose room for about 100 attendees and a theater with fixed seating for 500, said Dwayne Robinson, with the university’s event management team. The Henson is on campus and is the university’s hotel and dedicated conference center. The hotel reopened in May 2017 following a yearlong closure during a renovation that completely redid the 25 guest rooms, refreshed the lobby and updated meeting space. The conference center has several meeting rooms and boardrooms for groups of 12 to 50 people. For seated meals, groups of up to 250 guests can reserve the grand ballroom, which can also be divided into three rooms. The campus green in front of J.T. Williams Hall works well for receptions, Marshall said, and the school’s Ella Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center can seat more than 1,000. www.umes.edu

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Bowie State University Bowie

Bowie State University is the oldest historically black college in Maryland and in the Washington, D.C., area, and one of the 10 oldest in the nation. The university sits on more than 350 acres just off Maryland Route 175, nearly halfway between D.C. and Baltimore. The school has been investing in its facilities and boasts several new venues, some of which planners can use. Bowie State opened the $71 million Fine and Performing Arts Center in 2012, and the new $42 million student center was completed in 2013. The new student center, which replaced the former Wiseman Center, has the Wiseman Ballroom that can seat 320 guests for banquets or be broken into three rooms for smaller events. The center also provides five additional conference rooms and a theater with fixed seating for 250 people. Planners can reserve the 400-seat main stage theater in the performing arts center for presentations or speakers, book the recital hall for up to 200 people and use a black-box-theater space for 120 guests. Other spaces include a 147-person auditorium in the library and a 1,000-seat auditorium in the Martin Luther King Communication Arts Center, which also offers two lecture halls and several classrooms. www.bowiestate.edu

Courtesy UM Eastern Shore

The Henson Hotel and Conference Center offers accommodations and meeting space on the campus of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

Meetings with a view in the mountains of western Maryland

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Why choose the Deep Creek area for your next meeting or retreat? •

Convenient, central location within 3 hours or less from Baltimore, D.C. and Pittsburgh

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Traditional and unique meeting venues

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Over 4,000 lodging bedrooms from hotels to vacation rental homes

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40+ Restaurants, Coffee Shops, Bars and Catering Options

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Year-round activities and attractions including great team building opportunities

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Perfect meeting destination for the whole family

www.deepcreekgroups.com | 301-387-5238 March 2018

A remarkable off-site experience. Delicious local brews. Attendees having an unforgettable time. Another well-crafted event in Wichita. Plan yours today. 800.288.9424 . VisitWichita.com