Meeting and Event Planning Guide 2016

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MEETING

EVENT PLANNING GUIDE 2016 A special supplement to

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GREATER FORT WAYNE Business Weekly 3306 Independence Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46808 (260) 426-2640 Fax: (260) 426-2503 www.fwbusiness.com Randy Mitchell randymitchell@kpcmedia.com Publisher Lucretia Cardenas lcardenas@kpcmedia.com Editor Linda Lipp llipp@kpcmedia.com Associate Editor Aimee Ambrose aambrose@kpcmedia.com Reporter Doug LeDuc dleduc@kpcmedia.com Reporter Claudia Johnson cjohnson@kpcmedia.com Marketing Manager Beth Welty bwelty@kpcmedia.com Fort Wayne Paginator Kylee Malone research@kpcmedia.com Researcher Andy Eads aeads@kpcmedia.com Advertising Director Ann Saggars asaggars@kpcmedia.com Creative Manager Tracey Robideau trobideau@kpcmedia.com Special Sections Designer & Paginator MARKETING CONSULTANTS Mark Davis Bobbi Jenks Wendy Krzyzanowski Machele Waid George O. Witwer Publisher Emeritus Terry G. Housholder President Randy Mitchell Chief Executive Officer

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Region has much to offer Planning a meeting or event often requires more than the event space and activities within it.

To truly make an event meaningful, enjoyable and/or n attractive, other elements must be considered.

This is why Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly reached out to organizations in our region that frequently collaborate with event planners to coordinate a full package, including Editor event space, hotel, food, itinerary, activities and much more.

These organizations each provided information about what makes their areas unique for hosting a meeting or an event

LUCRETIA CARDENAS

and made suggestions on where your guests can eat and what they can do in their free time.

Events are always more enjoyable when attendees have a chance to explore, relax and enjoy activities outside of the event itself. These outings also provide prime opportunities to network with other attendees and vendors – which is usually one of the main goals a company has when hosting meetings and events.

We hope that the information included provides you some resources to pass on to your guests, whether they are from out-of-town or from the region and looking to try something new.

In addition, this guide may allow planners to discover opportunities that they may not have known of or thought of previously.

Also, we included lists of meeting spaces, caterers and hotels, among others, to assist you.

We wish you the best with your planning efforts as you take advantage of all northeast Indiana has to offer.

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Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly is a publication of KPC Media Group Inc. ©2016 All rights reserved.

For more information, to schedule a tour or make a reservation, please call us!

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SCIENCECENTRAL.ORG 1950 NORTH CLINTON ST. FORT WAYNE, IN 46805 Page 3

• Adams Memorial Hospital; • Adams Public Library; • Riverside Center; and • Coming in 2016 – Pennsy Train Depot.

Adams County

Allen County City of Decatur 260-724-7171 decaturin.org PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

County highlights The city of Decatur has embraced its motto – “Artistically Inspired Innovation” – and is promoting its artistic past, present and future. In its fifth year in 2015, the tour has attracted thousands of visitors – locally and nationwide. The success of the tour has aided in revitalizing downtown Decatur, as well as putting Decatur “on the map.”

The city also boasts a newly-energized North Adams Arts Council that provides the gamut of art classes – weaving to painting to sculpture to calligraphy – for ages 3 to 103. Wellness also has taken a front seat, with a volunteer committee planning a variety of wellness initiatives, including suggested walking patterns to installing an artistically-inspired bicycle rack in the downtown area.

Did you know?

Decatur is the hometown of nationally-renowned artists. David Smith is widely heralded as the greatest American metal sculptor of the 20th century. And, Decatur is the hometown of director David Anspaugh, who directed the classic movies “Hoosiers” and “Rudy” as well as the television series “Hill Street Blues.”

Where to eat?

• Back 40 Junction, 1011 N. 13th St., Decatur, worldfamousback40junction.com (260) 724-3355 • Niblicks Bistro, 208 W. Monroe St., Decatur, niblicksbistro.org (260) 223-8466 • Marko’s on 2nd, 135 S. 2nd St., Decatur,(260) 724-8880 What to do?

• Decatur Sculpture Tour • Rivergreenway Trails system • Historic U.S. 27 in downtown Decatur • Coming in 2016 – Pennsy Train Depot Local meeting and event tips: A variety of venues in Decatur are offered at a free or reduced rate for non-profit groups. These include: Page 4

Visit Fort Wayne (800) 767-7752 visitfortwayne.com PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

County highlights As Indiana’s second largest city, Fort Wayne is the home to more than 250,000 people and 5.8 million visitors each year.

Annually, Fort Wayne hosts more than 150 meetings, conventions and sports tournaments thanks to first-rate meeting venues, affordable hotels, and first-class entertainment and dining choices. What makes Fort Wayne stand apart? Visitors to our city receive all the big city amenities without paying big city prices. In fact, Fort Wayne is 15 percent more affordable in expenses across the board than you’ll find in other major cities, including hotel, parking, venue and dining costs.

Additionally, meeting planners have learned their attendees experience our famous Hoosier hospitality and receive media attention that they don’t receive in other cities. Many groups visit a city only to feel like just another event in town. In Fort Wayne, our hospitality industry professionals and local media ensure guests feel special throughout the duration of their visit.

Did you know?

The Genealogy Center, located in the Allen County Public Library Main Branch, has one of the largest genealogical collections in the United States. Thousands of genealogists travel to Fort Wayne to spend days researching their family ancestries.

The Genealogy Center is open seven days a week, fully staffed with trained genealo-

gists, and free to use.

Where to eat?

Over the last few years, the following have been popular choices among visitors: • JK O’Donnells, 121 W. Wayne St., jkodonnells.com (260) 420-5563 • Shigs In Pit, 2008 Fairfield Ave.,shigsinpit.com (260) 387-5903 • Club Soda, 235 E. Superior St., clubsodafortwayne.com (260) 426-3442 More recently, the following have become top dining destinations to hungry visitors: • Wine Down, 301 W. Jefferson Blvd., Suite 100, winedownfw.com (260) 755-1019 • Hoppy Gnome, 203 E. Berry St., hoppygnome.com (260) 422-0070 • Hideout 125, 10350 Coldwater Road, hideout125.com (260) 206-6192 What to do?

When visitors travel to Fort Wayne, Visit Fort Wayne is ready to share all the fun things to do in town. The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, Parkview Field and Fort Wayne Outfitters are great experiences for outdoor fun, while Science Central, Museum of Art and Genealogy Center are common indoor activities.

Local meeting and event tips: Visit Fort Wayne offers several free resources to meeting planners looking to host a conference, convention or sporting tournament. With more 30 years of combined experience, Visit Fort Wayne’s sales team can assist in helping you bid on an event, select a meeting venue and hotel, make a bid presentation, plan off-site activities, and promote your event. Any meeting planner can go to visitfortwayne.com/ meetings to learn new ways on how to plan a meeting or contact a Visit Fort Wayne sale team member. Again, all services are free.

DeKalb County County highlights Auburn is known as “Home of the Classics” due to its automotive heritage, of which began with experimentation of the automobile in 1895. Auburn had several carriage companies which eventually developed into the Auburn Automobile Company. During the early 1920s, the company produced the Auburn, Cord and Duesenberg automobiles which are highly prized today for their design and ingenuity.

Over the years, Auburn has preserved its heritage with two world class museums, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum and National Auto and Truck Museum, both are National Historic Landmarks.

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FILE PHOTO

DeKalb County Visitors Bureau (260) 927-1499 dekalbcountycvb.com

Did you know?

Every Labor Day weekend, Auburn is home to the world famous Auburn Cord Duesenberg Festival where owners of these classic cars return for their annual reunion and parade. Also held that same weekend are two world renowned Classic Car Auctions. These three events bring in over 250,000 people each year.

Where to eat?

Auburn has many restaurants to choose from, but the local favorites are: • Mad Anthony’s Tap Room, 1109 Taylor St., (260) 426-2537 madbrew.com/auburn • Sandra D’s Italian Garden, 1330 Main St.,(260) 927-7282 sandradsitaliangarden.com • Cricket’s 7th Street Bar & Grill, 120 W. 7th St. • The Italian Grille, 227 N. Duesenberg Drive,(260) 925-9400 theitaliangrille.com

What to do?

Auburn and DeKalb County have nine museums, featuring classic cars, trucks, aircraft, a military collection, railroad memorabilia, county history and draft animal museum. Plus, there are numerous festivals and events throughout the year.

Local meeting and event tips: The DeKalb County Visitors Bureau has free information available to those planning events on its website and it recommends planners check out the following venues: • Auburn Auction Park – Site for conventions, shows and events on a 235 acre park, (260) 927-9797.

• Kruse Foundation and Museums – 50,000 square feet for conventions, trade shows and banquet facilities, (260) 927-9144.

• Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum – Meeting rooms and banquet facilities to seat 10 - 1,000 people, (260) 925-1444.

lakes in the state, outdoor recreation including zip line canopy tour, nationally-known and regionally recognized restaurants, an award winning winery and nationally ranked Huntington University.

Did you know?

The Indiana-favorite hand-breaded pork tenderloin sandwich was invented here in Huntington County at Nick’s Kitchen, located in downtown Huntington.

Where to eat?

• Nick’s Kitchen, 506 N. Jefferson St. • Rusty Dog, 32 N. Jefferson St. • Brick House Grill, 19 W. Washington St. What to do?

• Sunken Gardens, 1200 W. Park Drive • Two-EE’s Winery, 6808 N. U.S. 24 East • Zip Timber Lake, 1740 E. 675 North Local meeting & events tips Those looking for event spaces can contact the Huntington County Visitor Bureau for free assistance or visit domorehuntington.com for a list of facilities.

Huntington County County highlights Huntington and the county have been a growing area destination just in the past few years with new bed and breakfasts, national chain hotels, unique shopping, convenient access to one of the ten largest

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Huntington County Visitor & CVB (260) 359-8687 visithuntington.com PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

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activities, cultural, restaurants and shopping opportunities in the greater county area.

You can see us from the highway by the large vintage “V” sign in front of the building.

Also, Warsaw is home to the Hallmark Keepsake Ornament Museum in The Party Store on U.S. 30.

Where to eat?

• Cerulean Restaurant, 1101 E. Canal St., Winona Lake, ceruleanrestaurant.com (574) 269-1226 • One Ten Craft Meatery, 110 N. Buffalo St., Warsaw, 110craftmeatery.com (574) 267-7007 • Creighton’s Crazy Egg Café & Coffee Bar, 4227 W, Old Road 30, Warsaw, (574) 267-3549 What to do?

• Warsaw Biblical Gardens – open April to October; • Gardens of Central Park and Central

Kosciusko County

Kosciusko County CVB (800) 800-6090 www.koscvb.org PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Noble County

LaGrange County

County highlights Warsaw can boast about many things.

It is the county seat of Kosciusko County. It is the perfect mix of town and country. It is rich in culture and industry and is known as the “Orthopedic Capital of the World.”

Warsaw also has one of the largest printing presses in the world, the largest projection screen manufacturer in the world and Explorer Van, which converts vans into luxury vehicles including for many celebrities.

There is also plenty of playing to be done at the world-class Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts and at any of the county’s four lakes. Warsaw was named “Top Cities to Raise a Family” by Forbes Magazine. The current bachelor from the TV show, The Bachelor, Ben Higgins, is from Warsaw as well.

The Village of Winona sits within the city of Warsaw and is home of the Rev. Billy Sunday, the Winona Museum of History, Grace College and Winona Lake. The Village of Winona is known for its restaurants and restored historical homes that are now artisan stores beautifully placed next to Winona Lake. Kosciusko County is home to the deepest natural lake in Indiana, Tippecanoe Lake in North Webster, and the largest natural lake in Indiana, Lake Wawasee in Syracuse.

Did you know?

There is a stand-alone, uniquely uncommon, Kosciusko County Visitor’s Center located on U.S. 30 as you enter Warsaw. It is open to visitors to gather information on accommodations, tours, attractions, recreation, athletic and lake Page 6

St., Topeka (260) 593-2988 What to do?

• Menno-Hof Interpretive Center • Cook’s Bison Ranch • Blue Gate Theater Local meeting and event tips: The Shipshewana/LaGrange County CVB provides the following services free of charge to those planning events: • Meeting/event planning assistance; • Accommodation request for proposal assistance; • Attraction/dining assistance; • Customized itinerary planning; • Expert advice; • Welcome packets; and • Brochures/maps.

Noble County CVB (260) 854-2115 visitnoblecounty.com FILE PHOTO

Shipshewana/ LaGrange County CVB (260) 768-4008 backroads.org PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

County highlights In the heart of LaGrange County’s simple country setting, you will discover state-ofthe-art meeting facilities, particularly those in Shipshewana. We have the ideal venue for corporate retreats, religious conferences, civic and association meetings, tradeshows, seminars, staff training, weddings, family reunions and more. Only three hours from Chicago, Detroit and Indianapolis. The area offers over 170,000 square feet of meeting space between three facilities, over 700 rooms and some of the best home-style food in the world.

Did you know?

Shipshewana is small hometown community and known as the third largest Amish Community in the United States Where to eat?

• Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery, 195 N. Van Buren St., Shipshewana,(260) 768-4725 riegsecker.com • Das Dutchman Essenhaus, 240 U.S. 20, Middlebury (574) 825-9471 essenhaus.com • Tiffany’s Family Restaurant, 414 E. Lake

County highlights Noble County has a unique dilemma regarding its “main city.” Albion is the county seat, but Kendallville is the largest city by population. In most counties, the county seat is also the largest by population.

Did you know?

Noble County has 117 lakes, big and small. Chain O’Lakes State Park has 13 lakes, nine of which are connected. Sylvan Lake in Rome City is the largest lake and is man-made.

Where to eat?

• St. James Restaurant, 204 E. Albion St, Avilla,(260) 897-2114 stjamesavilla.com • Kimmell House Inn, 1397 U.S. 33, Kimmell,(260) 635-2193 kimmellhouseinn. com • Fashion Farm Restaurant, 1680 Lincolnway West, Ligonier, (260) 894-4498 fashionfarminc.com All are uniquely historic and locally owned.

What to do?

Depending on what kind of experience the visitor is looking for (active, recreational, history buffs, family oriented, etc.), Noble County has something to offer: • Chain O’Lakes State Park;

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• Gene Stratton-Porter State Historic Site; • Great Indiana Golf packages at Noble Hawk and Cobblestone courses; • Mid-America Windmill Museum; and • Stone’s Trace Historic Site.

Local meeting and event tips: Free meeting space is available at Noble County CVB for groups up to 20. Other free meeting space is available at the Kendallville Chamber of Commerce, Noble County Public Library branches, Kendallville Public Library and the Limberlost Public Library in Rome City.

Steuben County County highlights Angola, our county seat, is home to the Soldier’s Monument, which honors the 1,278 Steuben County men who fought in the Civil War. Pokagon State Park welcomes more than 750,000 annual visitors. The toboggan at the park is the only refrigerated one in Indiana. Angola/ Fremont is one of three Indiana communities that are semi-finalists in the America’s

Van Wert County Steuben County Tourism Bureau (800) 525-3101 lakes101.org FILE PHOTO

Best Communities contest.

Did you know?

Hamilton annually hosts northeast Indiana’s largest old fashioned Christmas horse-drawn parade the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Where to eat?

• Caruso’s, 2435 N. 200 West, Angola (260) 833-2617 carusos-restaurant.com • Timbers Steakhouse and Seafood, 1212 W. Maumee St., Angola, (260) 665-7487 timbersangola.com • Clay’s Family Restaurant, 7815 Old U.S. 27, Fremont, (260) 833-1332 kpcmedia.com/ clays What to do?

• Pokagon State Park in Angola • Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve in Fremont • Briali Winery and Vineyards in Fremont and Satek Winery in Fremont Local meeting & events tips The Steuben County Tourism Bureau provides meeting packets.

FILE PHOTO

Van Wert Area CVB (419) 238-9378 visitvanwert.org

County highlights With a long history of hard work, dedication and philanthropy, Van Wert is blessed with beautiful parks, outstanding architecture evident in both homes and public buildings, an excellent educational system, a world-class performing arts center, the first county library in the United States, a marvelously maintained historic court house,

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several entertainment venues and, most importantly, friendly people.

We are on the cutting edge of green energy technology with a 152-turbine wind farm (and another wind farm in the planning stages), and a vocational center that is heavily invested in solar power.

A small town in the center of an agricultural region may not seem a likely place to find great cultural treasures, but Van Wert is the center of a thriving art community.

The people of Van Wert are also fortunate to have easy access to four outstanding museums.

Did you know?

The Blue Creek Wind Farm, containing 152 wind turbines, is the largest wind farm located in the state of Ohio. It is located on the north edge of the city of Van Wert.

Where to eat?

• Balyeat’s Coffee Shop - a 90-year tradition in downtown Van Wert, 133 E. Main St., (419) 238-1580 • Black Angus on Main, 282 E. Main St., (419) 204-4812 What to do?

• Wassenberg Art Center • Brumback Library - First county library in the United States • Delphos Museum of Postal History one of three such museums in the United States with many displays on loan from the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. Local meeting and event tips: The Convention and Visitors Bureau can assist in setting up tours and dining options.

Wabash County County highlights Wabash County has just about everything you are looking for when it comes to entertaining visitors. Annually, the Honeywell Center sees nearly 250,000 people walk through its doors to experience a world-class performance, enjoy dinner or attend a specific event. A strong network of art galleries, make-n-take art workshops and antique stores support the art and entertainment experience offered by the Honeywell Center all year round.

Along with strong cultural amenities, Wabash County appeals to history hunters, outdoor adventure seekers and leisure travelers. Surrounded by two state parks, reservoirs, fitness centers, interactive historic museums, parks, gardens, orchards, Harley-Davidson motorcycle rentals, fine dining, shopping and annual festivals; those planning a visit might not know where to start.

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use of Trolley No. 85; a 22 passenger people mover. Our team is connected to venues and event specialist throughout the region.

All of our support and assistance is always free and available 24-7 to event and meeting planners.

Wells County Visit Wabash County (260) 563-7171 visitwabashcounty.com PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Did you know?

Wabash is the first electrically lighted city in the world. “From the towering dome of the Courthouse at 8 p.m. On March 31, 1880, burst a flood of lights that made world history. Over 10,000 people witnessed the event. For a mile around, house and yards were distinctly visible, while far away the Wabash River flowed like a band of molten Silver,” - Chicago Tribune 1880. Charles Brush tested the first ever electric arc light using four “Brush lights” mounted atop the cupola of the courthouse. One of the original four lights is still on display on the first floor of the courthouse today.

Where to eat?

• Una Bella Pizza Napoletana1710 S. Wabash St. (260) 563-7333 • Twenty111 W. Market St.(260) 563-0111charleycreekinn.com • Market Street Grill90 W. Market St.(260) 563-7779msgrill.com What to do?• Honeywell Center275 W. Market St.(260) 563-1102honeywellcenter. org The Honeywell Center is a world-class performing arts center which offers a 1,500 stadium-style seat theater house, an onsite restaurant, meeting rooms and an art gallery.• Salamonie State Park & ReservoirSouth East Wabash County(260) 563-7171visitwabashcounty.com A 12,000-acre outdoor recreation property with a 2,855-acre lake for boating, swimming and fishing. • Wabash County Historical Museum, 36 E. Market Street (260) 563-0970wabashmuseum.org The WCHM is riding history with health through hands-on exhibits which encourage family engagement, local history and creative play.

Local meeting and event tips: The team at Visit Wabash County offers free assistance for event and meeting planners. We will create custom welcome packets for any event which include maps, guides, gifts, and agendas.

The Visit Wabash County staff will coordinate transportation, meals and overnight accommodations. The team builds custom event packages, tours, and offers planners

Wells County Chamber of Commerce (260) 824-0510 wellscoc.com PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

County highlights Bluffton was nicknamed “The Parlor City” over a century ago because its paved streets (a new phenomenon at the time) made the city “as clean as your parlor.” The parlor was the room in the house where guests were entertained and made to feel at home.

Wells County is a community of more than 27,000 people and we have been the object of state, national and international attention because of our recognized leadership and our award-winning programs. We became the first Gigabit City in September 2015; were named the best place to start a business in July 2015; our parks department was named the “Best Agency of the Year” in January 2015; and Mayor Ted Ellis was elected president of National League of Cities in November 2011, to name just a few accomplishments.

Even though paved streets are no longer a novelty and only the older homes have parlors, we’re still proud to be a place where you feel at home.

Did you know?

Wells County was occupied by the Miami Tribe, whose villages flanked the banks of the river that bears the name Wabash, the pronunciation of which matches that of the state park, Ouabache. Our state park, is the one and only state park to have bison on the premises.

Where to eat?

• TW Fable, 2330 E. 250 N., Bluffton, twfable.com (260) 353-1360 • Sassafras on Main, 218 S. Main St., Bluffton, sassafrasonmain.net (260) 824-8112 • Mi Casa Restaurant, 1140 Dehner Drive, Ossian,(260) 622-6555

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What to do?

Visit: • Ouabache State Park, 4930 IN-201, Bluffton • The Arts, Commerce & Visitors Centre, 211 Water St., Bluffton • The Wells County Historical Museum, 420 W. Market St., Bluffton Local meeting & events tips There are nominal fees at various places in the community to hold small meetings such as the public library, Forgotten Children Worldwide and America’s Best Value Inn. Sassafras on Main also has space for meetings and events. Larger rentals can be done at the Arts, Commerce & Visitors Centre, 4-H Community Building and TW Fable for a fee.

Whitley County County highlights Although small in size, Whitley County is grand in its sense of community and warmth. Traveling across the county, you’ll enjoy colorful sunrises on the shores of the county’s many lakes, visit quaint shops and dine with friends and watch the sun set

Whitley County Chamber of Commerce (260) 248-8131 whitleychamber.com

LINDA LIPP

over the rolling farm fields that cover the county. Columbia City serves as the county seat, with the central focus on the Whitley County Courthouse, a building deemed one of the most attractive courthouses in the state. Neighboring towns of Churubusco, South Whitley and Larwill boast character throughout their vintage corridors and newer developments.

Did you know?

Whitley County’s county seat, Columbia City, was once home to the 28th U.S. Vice President Thomas R. Marshall serving alongside President Woodrow Wilson.

Today, his grand home at 108 West Jefferson Street is home to the county’s historical museum. History is important in Whitley County which houses three other

museums, including the Churubusco History Museum, Whitley County Agricultural History Museum and the Columbia City Fire Department Museum.

Where to eat?

• Downtown on the Square, 111 S Main St., Columbia City, (260) 244-4011 • Big G’s, 602 S. Main St., Columbia City (260) 244-6388 • El Dorado, Columbia City (260) 244-5490 What to do?

Whitley County’s greatest attractions include our beautiful lakes which are teeming with life and sporting year-round.

Additional great destinations include our parks, rural scenery and great festivals, including the Whitley County Autumn Art Festival, Old Settlers Days, Turtle Days and the concerts on the courthouse lawn during the summer months. Additionally, be sure to visit our Whitley County Farmers Market, one of the largest markets in northeast Indiana, which is open each Saturday from the second Saturday in May through the second Saturday in October. Year-round, visitors enjoy the changing scenery at the Collamer Dam overlooking the Eel River.

Local meeting & event tips Attractive meeting spaces are available at several locations in our community including the Whitley County Government Center, Peabody Public Library, South Whitley Public Library and more. For events, we recommend Ceruti’s Eagle Glen Event Center and The Van Buren.

Make It Happen...

Hotel Fort Wayne –305 East Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Phone: 260-484-0411 or 855-322-3224 | www.hotelftwaynein.com Meeting & Event Guide • 2016 • fwbusiness.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

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MEETING RANK

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10 12 12 14 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 32 34 35 36 37

AND BANQUET

NAME/ADDRESS PHONE/WEB Allen County War Memorial Coliseum 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne (260) 482-9502 www.memorialcoliseum.com Grand Wayne Convention Center 120 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 426-4100 www.grandwayne.com The Plex South 5702 Engle Road, Fort Wayne (260) 496-9999 www.plexsports.com McMillen Park Community Center 3901 Abbott St., Fort Wayne (260) 427-2420 www.fortwayneparks.org Manchester University 604 E. College Ave, North Manchester (260) 982-5000 www.meetatmanchester.com Parkview Field 1301 Ewing St., Fort Wayne (260) 482-6400 www.parkviewfield.com Embassy Theatre 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 424-6287 www.fwembassytheatre.org Indiana Wesleyan University-Fort Wayne Education and Conference Center 8211 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 918-1208 www.indwes.edu/fortwayne Science Central 1950 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne (260) 424-2400 www.sciencecentral.org YOLO Event Center 4201 wells street , Fort Wayne 260-483-2929 www.yoloeventcenter.com Allen County Fairgrounds, Inc 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne (260) 449-4444 www.allencountyfairgroundsin.com Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne (260) 427-6440 www.botanicalconservatory.org Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 481-6612 www.ipfw.edu/special-events Hotel Fort Wayne 305 E. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 484-0411 hotelftwaynein.com Empyrean 110 W Berry St., Fort Wayne 20-444-4688 www.empyreaneventsfw.com Orthopaedic Capital Center 610 Wooster Road, Winona Lake 574.372.5100 ext. 6528 Manchester University College of Pharmacy 10627 Diebold Road, Fort Wayne (877) 624-8378 www.meetatmanchester.com Ceruti's Summit Park 6601 Innovation Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 207-2000 www.cerutis.com The Honeywell Center 275 W. Market St., Wabash (260) 563-1102 www.honeywellcenter.org Kendallville Event Center 615 Professional Way, Kendallville (260) 347-6910 www.kendallvilleeventcenter.com Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation 10622 Parkview Plaza Drive, Fort Wayne (260) 266-7701 www.parkview.com/en/health-services/ MirroCenterforResearchInnovation/Pages/ConferenceCenter-.aspx Don Hall's Guesthouse 1313 W. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 489-2524 www.donhalls.com The Landmark Conference & Reception Centre 6222 Ellison Road, Fort Wayne (260) 432-4500 thelandmarkcentre.com Potawatomi Inn Resort and Conference Center 6 Lane 100 A, Lake James, Angola (260) 833-1077 www.indianainns.com Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum 1600 S. Wayne St., Auburn (260) 925-1444 www.automobilemuseum.org Goeglein Homestead 7311 Maysville Road, Fort Wayne (260) 749-5192 www.goegleins.com Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio 10700 S.R. 118 South, Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6722 www.npacvw.org The Philmore on Broadway 2441 Broadway Street, Fort Wayne (260) 745-1000 www.philmoreonbroadway.com Eddie Merlot's Prime Aged Beef and Seafood 1502 S. Illinois Road, Fort Wayne (260) 459-2222 www.eddiemerlots.com Don Hall's Guesthouse Hotel and Conference Ctr. 1313 W. Washington Ctr. Rd, Fort Wayne (260) 489-2524 www.donhalls.com Lighted Gardens 10794 N. State Road 1, Ossian (260) 622-4023 www.lightedgardens.com SportONE Parkview Icehouse 3869 Ice Way, Fort Wayne (260) 387-6614 http://www.icesports.com/fortwayne/default.aspx Arts United 300 E. Main St., Fort Wayne (260) 424-0646 www.artsunited.org Baker Street Station 221 W. Berry St., Ft. Wayne (260) 749-1162 www.bakerstreetstation.com Bergstaff Place 2020 E. Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 207-2020 www.cerutis.com Chestnut Hills Golf Club 11502 Illinois Road, Fort Wayne 260-625-4146 www.chestnuthillsgolf.com Caruso's Catering 2435 N 200 W, Angola (260) 833-2617 www.carusos-restaurant.com

FUNCTION LARGEST SPACE ROOM (SQ. FT.) (SQ. FT.)

NO. OF EVENT ROOMS

PARKING SPACES FEE RANGE

TYPES OF SPACE AVAILABLE

SALES DIRECTOR(S)

GENERAL MANAGER

850,000

108,000

15

5,500

$100-$5000 per day

Arena seats nearly 13,000; more than 170,000 square feet of trade show/convention/consumer show space; banquet/meeting rooms and flexible reception space

Nathan Dennison

Randy Brown

225,000

50,000

33

1,000

$250-$5,000

Meeting, banquet, classroom, ballroom, convention hall

Marcy McKinley

Bart Shaw

100,000

DND

2

275

$250/hr-$650/hr

Two indoor event spaces that include miniature golf, batting cages, driving range and open 100-yard field; space can be used for athletic purposes or for events such as wedding ceremonies and receptions, corporate outings and trade shows

Lydia Bradshaw

Nick Potter

87,000

19,200

7

367 parking spots with 9 handicap spots

$30 - $1000

Large open barn in working farm park setting, separate area for catere; available May-October.

Alicia O'Neal

Bennie Lewis Tony Acosta

72,987

DND

33

1052

$20-$700

Exhibit space, receptions, dinners, on-site chapel, recreational fields, gymnasium, video conferencing, auditoriums, various sizes of conference rooms

Alexis Young

50,000

DND

11

DND

$50-$2,000

Indoor meeting, banquet space, conference room, batting cages, amphitheater area

Holly Raney

Mike Nutter

46,007

19,627

10

1,800

$100-$6500

The Ballroom at the Embassy The Rooftop Garden at the Embassy Theatre Auditorium/Stage Embassy Theatre Lobby & Mezzanine Indiana Hotel Lobby & Mezzanine Donor Lounge Mezzanine Lounge Hoosier Room Indiana Corridor Classrooms Rehearsal Space

Kyle Snare Sara Nelson

Kelly Updike

37,000

DND

18

211

$50-$200 per day

Conference, meeting space, seminar, training, classroom

Tina Croft

Tina Croft

30,000

DND

6

90+ (spillover parking available nearby)

$125-$400 per hour

Meeting rooms, classrooms, interactive exhibit galleries, eating area, Demonstration Theater, New Science On a Sphere Theater

James Hodgin

Martin Fisher

22,000

7,000

2

225

$500-$1200

Small to large group meeting rooms

Kristin Smith

Kristin Smith

22,000

DND

4

Large open parking facilities, free

$150-$2,500

Classroom, three banquet halls used for wedding receptions and parties, reunions, seminars, conferences, trade shows, church events, company picnics, pull strip, horse arena, barns and show arena

Miranda Ott

Jerry Hammon

20,000

4,500

4

City parking garage nearby

$150-$1,395

Linda Miller

Mitch Sheppard

20,000

8,325

15

Numerous oncampus parking options

$175-$1,600

Banquet, classroom, meeting room, reception, cocktail party, memorial, open house, shower, anniversary/birthday party, large terrace garden, ceremony site The Classic Ballroom can be used for lectures, classrooms, banquets, and a cafeteria. The International Ballroom can be used for private receptions, conferences, auctions and performances. Additional meeting rooms offer breakout sessions. The Alumni Center offers meeting and reception areas. The Auer Performance Hall and Rhinehart Recital Hall offer theatre style seating for large meetings or performances.

Meeting, reception, ceremony, banquet, trade show, conference, board meeting, seminar, interview

Leanne Bure

Lisa Zerkle

1

18,000

7,956

11

600+

$100.00 $4,000.00

18,000

4,800

6

300+

$80-120 per person

Modern, upscale

17,700

13,000

5

DND

$225-$1,875

Large meetings, banquets, trade shows, athletic events

Steve Wise

17,000

DND

13

290

$120-$600

Auditorium, conference rooms, banquet rooms, commons area, gallery

Alexis Young

16,500

DND

4

363

$0-$975

Meeting, reception, ceremony, banquet, trade show

Joe Ceruti

Joe Ceruti

16,000

DND

16

665

$25 and up

Sixteen rooms of different sizes, with capacities ranging from eight to 1,500; space for weddings, meetings, banquets, and parties; skating rink, outdoor plaza, theater, art gallery and restaurant

Ali McIlvenny

Tod Minnich

15,000

DND

4

243

$100+

Receptions, banquets, theater-style seating, classroom-style seating, trade shows

Judy Gaines

Judy Gaines

13,000

13,000

6

Ample, free parking

$200-$1400

The center will comfortably seat up to 540 individuals at round tables or nearly 880 in lecture-style seating. When reserving space, groups may also take advantage of additional services: Catering service; Valet service or ample, free parking; Audiovisual technology, including three theatrical screens, advanced projection equipment and high-quality audio

Kay Donaldson

Michael Morin

11,628

4,816

14

400

$125-$5,000

Theater, banquet, classroom, trade shows, breakout rooms, hospitality suites

Dawn Nichter

Timothy Hall

10,800

2,925

5

350

Varies

Banquet space for weddings, corporate meetings, anniversaries, reunions; breakfast, lunch and dinner served. Outside garden area for wedding ceremonies and cocktail parties.

Amy Hannon

Todd Egts

10,500

6,000

8

Large three-tier area, plus two other lots

$125-$2,000

Board room, meeting rooms, ball room, outdoor deck

Hilary Price

Thomas Peet

10,207

DND

4

200+

$9 per person & special daytime prices

Banquet, classroom style, U-shape seating, theater style, classic style

Alyssa Miller

Laura Brinkman

9,550

DND

4

206

$100+

Receptions, banquets, classroom style seating, theater style seating, trade shows, large grassy areas, outdoor ceremony garden

Jeff Werling

Greg Goeglein

9,500

DND

4

800

$500-$1,500

Music/Performance hall, lecture hall, grand lobby and upper lobby

Tafani Stober

Paul Hoverman

8,800

DND

2

40

$2,500 and under

Amanda Kolkman

Philip Terrell

8,600 2

DND

3

100

Emily Wagner

Steven Kulas

8,000

4,816

12

300

Pre-set dinner menus from $49-$99; Pre-set lunch menus from $20-$39 $200-$475

Business meeting space, wedding and reception hall, concert venue with restaurant style dinning, lounge seating, full stage, two bars, balcony, outdoor patio, and full amenities Two private dining rooms and one semi-private area: the Merlot Room, seats up to 60; the Cabernet Room, seats up to 40; the Intimate Room (semi-private), seats up to 20 Theater, banquet, classroom, trade show

Dawn Nichter Lisa Morel Catherine Kile

Tim Hall

6,400

4,000

2

200+

$10 and up

DND

5,000

DND

2

220

$100-$300

Small, medium, large

5,000

DND

2

96 at AUC and 40 at ArtsLab

DND

660-seat theater space, 185-seat flexible black box theater space, gallery space for up to 130 people (seated), two rehearsal halls

4,200

DND

1

200

$100+

Receptions, banquets, theater style seating, trade shows and classroom style seating

Jeff Werling

Greg Goeglein

4,000

DND

1

200+

$0 - $800

Meeting, reception and banquet space

Joe Ceruti

Joe Ceruti

3,100

2,200

3

200

$250-$550

Banquet

Gary Gant

Gary Gant

1,000

DND

2

125

$75-225

Banquet Room and Patio

Liat Peters Dan Caruso

Dan Caruso

Current as of April 2015 Source: Business Weekly research DND: Did not disclose 1 The International Ballroom can be split into two rooms, creating three event rooms in total.

2 Entire restaurant can be rented out for private events as well.

Page 10

FACILITIES

Sheila Dean

David Waymire Jeremy Miner

Jerry Springer

Eddie Hawkins

Eddie Hawkins Susan Mendenhall

It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants or to imply the size of the business indicates its quality. Although every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the Business Weekly's top list, omissions sometimes occur. Information is often based on responses from the businesses to Business Weekly surveys. Please send corrections or additions on letterhead to Researcher, Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly, 3306 Independence Dr., Fort Wayne, IN 46808,or e-mail research@kpcmedia.com Copyright 2015 by KPC Media Group Inc., Kendallville, IN. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of this list may be made without permission of KPC Media Group Inc. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use, reprint, image or reproduction of this list without permission.

Meeting & Event Guide • 2016 • fwbusiness.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

CATERING COMPANIES NO. OF NO. OF FULL-TIME PART-TIME EMPLOYEES EMPLOYEES

OWNER(S)

YEAR LOCALLY FOUNDED

Customized menus to fit any style and budget, from breakfast and box lunches to revolutionary and progressive culinary cuisine; also provides chocolate fountains, ice sculptures, centerpieces, bridal flowers, specialty linens and chair covers, licensed beverage service

Joseph Ceruti

1954

59

Barbecue, American, Takaoka style, custom specialty

Hall's Restaurants Inc.

1946

25

68

American fare and custom specialty

Hall's Restaurants Inc.

1946

3

Casa Ristoranti Italiano 7539 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 399-2455 www.casarestaurants.net

25

50

Authentic Italian specialties, including petto di pollo al Palermo, pasta con verdura, linguine con pollo pesto, lasagne carne amante and insalata Casaburo

Tom, Sharon, Jim and T. Casaburo

1977

5

Baker Street Steakhouse 4820 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne 260-484-3300 www.bakerstreetfortwayne.com

23

55

Steaks & seafood, gluten free, vegan, custom designed menus available by request.

James Bashir, A. Khan, Lysa Pelkington

2008

6

Goeglein's Catering 7311 Maysville Road, Fort Wayne (260) 749-5192 www.goegleins.com

15

165

Romano almond breast of chicken, prime rib, crown roast of pork and herb-encrusted tenderloin of beef. Complete decorating services available.

Greg and Don Goeglein

1951

7

JW Anderson's Events & Catering 2330 Wayne Haven St., Fort Wayne 260-245-0868 www.jwandersons.com

10

20

BBQ smoker buffet, Mexican buffet, homestyle buffet and breakfast buffet; custom menus to fit any event

John "Pat" and Wes Anderson

2012

7

Empyrean 110 W Berry St., Fort Wayne 260-444-4688 www.empyreaneventsfw.com

10

75

From scratch gourmet cuisine

Gary Probst & Julia Fiechter

2013

9

Lighted Gardens 10794 N. State Road 1, Ossian (260) 662-4023 www.lightedgardens.com

5

25

Parmesan-encrusted breast of chicken with pomodoro sauce, chicken Oscar, herbed pork loin with orange glazed onions, Italian formaggio cheese fondue, lobster bonbons with citrus sauce, salami strudel, chocolate fountain, dessert shooters, wedding cakes, homemade pies

Jerry Springer

1998

9

The Landmark 6222 Ellison Road, Fort Wayne (260) 432-4500 www.thelandmarkcentre.com

5

30

American & gourmet cuisine; Indian cuisine; Mexican & Chinese cuisine

Alkhairy Hospitality

2005

9

YOLO Event Center 4201 N Wellst St , Fort Wayne 2604832929 yoloeventcenter.com

5

25

From Hors d'oeuvres to plated 4 course meals, Yolo event center caters to your needs.

Todd Smith

2006

Fort Wayne Chocolate Fountain 8925 Arbor View Court, Fort Wayne (260) 486-8279 www.fortwaynechocolatefountain.com

2

6

Full-service chocolate fountain catering that includes hand-blended chocolate (milk, white and dark) as well as all of the dipping choices to enjoy. Boxes of hand dipped strawberries and peanut butter balls; the perfect gift!!

Angela Dippel

2007

RANK

NAME/ADDRESS PHONE/WEB

123

29

1

Ceruti's Catering & Special Events 6601 Innovation Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 207-2000 www.cerutis.com

45

2

Hall's Guesthouse & Catering Service 1313 W. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 489-2524 www.donhalls.com

3

Hall's Takes the Cake and Catering 1313 W. Washington Ctr. Rd., Fort Wayne (260) 747-0767 www.donhalls.com

12

Current as of July 2015 Source: Business Weekly research DND: Did not disclose

FOOD SPECIALTIES

It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants or to imply the size of the business indicates its quality. Although every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the Business Weekly's top list, omissions sometimes occur. Information is often based on responses from the businesses to Business Weekly surveys. Please send corrections or additions on letterhead to Researcher, Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly, 3306 Independence Dr., Fort Wayne, IN 46808,or e-mail research@kpcmedia.com Copyright 2015 by KPC Media Group Inc., Kendallville, IN. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of this list may be made without permission of KPC Media Group Inc. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use, reprint, image or reproduction of this list without permission.

Meeting & Event Guide • 2016 • fwbusiness.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Page 11

ENTERTAINMENT RANK

NAME/ADDRESS PHONE/WEB

VENUES ONE-TIME SEATING NO. OF FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES DESCRIPTION OF FACILITY CAPACITY

The Allen County Fairgrounds hosts the Allen County 4-H Jerry Hammon, president Fair, concerts, trade shows, expos, animal shows, corporate events, weddings, receptions, and community events

1988

DND

Large covered stage

Variety of family-oriented events presented during the summer months

John Chalmers, president, Dekalb Outdoor Theater Board

2009

2,514

DND

Outdoor covered entertainment venue

Variety of free and low-cost family-friendly concerts and movies throughout the summer months

Tim Byers, manager

1949

2,477

12

Rental concert and event venue

Broadway series, national headliners, Fort Wayne Philharmonic and other community arts groups

Kelly Updike, executive director

1928

2,000

DND

DND

More than 50 national concerts yearly, cover bands every weekend

Todd Smith, CEO

1987

1,500

30

DND

Concerts, Broadway musicals, conferences, family festivals, Tod Minnich, executive educational outreach programs and art exhibits director/CEO

1952

1,500

DND

Recital hall with convenient parking; available for rent

Omnibus Lecture Series, IPFW Music Department, Fort H. Jay Harris, director of Wayne Children's Choir, Unity Performing Arts, Fort Wayne physical plant Area Community Band and nationally known acts

2007

1,500

DND

DND

Softball, soccer, golf, corporate parties, weddings, class reunions, concerts, birthday parties

2000

1,200

45

Family Entertainment Center

5 different entertainment venues, restaurant and lounge and banquet facilities.

1,200

DND

DND

Variety, entertainment, inspiration, educational focus

Paul Hoverman, executive director

2007

1,000

DND

DND

Ice hockey, figure skating, public skating, roller hockey, curling, bounce mania, banquet parties

2010

800

DND

DND

Six summer in-house produced and designed plays or musicals starting in June and continuing through early September; concerts during the rest of the year

661

DND

Community theatre space available for rental

Civic Theatre, Youtheatre, Fort Wayne Ballet, Fort Wayne Dance Collective

Kylee Lehrman, sales and marketing manager Martin Holleley, general manager Will Dawson, director of operations and marketing Rachel Mondragon , director of marketing and fund development Susan Mendenhall, president

3402

10

Restaurant and Theater

Phil Robertson, Texas Tenors, Gaither Vocal Band, Michael W Smith, Red Green

Ryan Riegsecker, president

2003

240

DND

Recital hall with adjacent parking; available for rent

Smaller productions

H. Jay Harris, director of physical plant

2007

220

1

The Philmore has the unique ability to provide live entertainment for an event.

Phil Terrell, partnering manager

1923

200

DND

A main floor, balcony, and patio. Two bars and four restrooms. A stage with full sound and lights.Table and lounge seating for 220 guests.

Community balck box theatre space available for rental

Civic Theatre, Youtheatre, Fort Wayne Ballet, Fort Wayne Dance Collective

Susan Mendenhall, January 2014 president of Arts United

31

2

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne (260) 482-9502 www.memorialcoliseum.com

13,000

DND

Allen County Fairgrounds 2726 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne (260) 449-4444 www.allencountyfairgroundsin.com DeKalb Outdoor Theater Center and 15th Streets, Auburn DND www.dekalboutdoortheater.org Foellinger Outdoor Theatre Franke Park, Fort Wayne (260) 427-6715 www.fortwayneparks.org Embassy Theatre 125 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 424-6287 www.fwembassytheatre.org Piere's 5629 St. Joe Road, Fort Wayne (260) 486-1979 www.itstheparty.com Honeywell Center 275 W. Market St., Wabash (260) 563-1102 www.honeywellcenter.org Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne Auer Performance Hall in the Rhinehart Music Center 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 481-5493 www.ipfw.edu The Plex South 5702 Engle Road, Fort Wayne (260) 496-9999 www.plexsports.com Crazy Pinz 1414 Northland Blvd., Fort Wayne 260-490-2695 www.crazypinz.com Niswonger Performing Arts Center of Northwest Ohio 10700 S.R. 118 South, Van Wert, Ohio (419) 238-6722 www.npacvw.org SportONE Parkview Icehouse 3869 Ice Way, Fort Wayne (260) 387-6614 www.icesports.com/fortwayne Wagon Wheel Theatre 2515 E. Center St., Warsaw (574) 267-8041 www.wagonwheeltheatre.com

4,000 1

DND

3,000

5 6 7 8 8 8 11 11 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

Arts United Center 303 E. Main St., Fort Wayne (260) 423-4349 www.artsunited.org Blue Gate Restaurant & Theater 195 N. Van Buren St., Shipshewana (260) 768-4725 www.bluegatetheater.com Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne Rhinehart Recital Hall 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 481-5493 www.ipfw.edu/special-events The Philmore on Broadway 2441 Broadway Street, Fort Wayne (260) 745-1000 http://www.philmoreonbroadway.com/ ArtsLab at the Auer Center 300 E. Main St., Fort Wayne 260-424-0646 www.artsunited.org

Current as of July 2015 Source: Business Weekly research DND: Did not disclose 1 Includes one of three banquet facilities 2 Excludes convention center seating

Page 12

Fort Wayne TinCaps, amateur baseball, non-baseball events Mike Andrew Nutter, including concerts, reunions, trade shows, holiday parties, team president etc.

YEAR LOCALLY FOUNDED OR BUILT

Fort Wayne Komets, Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Fort Wayne Derby Girls, consumer shows, national concert tours and touring family attractions.

1

14,250

4

TOP LOCAL OFFICIAL

Minor League Professional Baseball Stadium used for professional baseball as well as hundreds of non-baseball events annually.

Arena with a maximum capacity of just under 13,000; Expo Center consisting of 152,000 square feet of flexible event space, Conference Center consisting of 27,000 square feet of flexible event space.

Fariground, heated buildings, outside venues

Parkview Field 1301 Ewing St., Fort Wayne (260) 482-6400 www.tincaps.com

3

FEATURED ENTERTAINMENT

2009

Randy Brown, executive 1952 vice president and general manager

Thomas Lapsley Bobby Poursanidis, coowners

2007

1954

1973

It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants or to imply the size of the business indicates its quality. Although every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the Business Weekly's top list, omissions sometimes occur. Information is often based on responses from the businesses to Business Weekly surveys. Please send corrections or additions on letterhead to Researcher, Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly, 3306 Independence Dr., Fort Wayne, IN 46808,or e-mail research@kpcmedia.com Copyright 2015 by KPC Media Group Inc., Kendallville, IN. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of this list may be made without permission of KPC Media Group Inc. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use, reprint, image or reproduction of this list without permission.

Meeting & Event Guide • 2016 • fwbusiness.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

MOST EXCLUSIVE RESTAURANTS RANK

NAME/ADDRESS PHONE/WEB

MOST EXPENSIVE DINNER ENTREE

LEAST EXPENSIVE DINNER ENTREE

SEATING CAPACITY

FT / PT EMPLOYEES

GENERAL MANAGER

OWNER

YEAR LOCALLY OPENED

Eddie Merlot's Prime Aged Beef and Seafood 1502 Illinois Road South, Fort Wayne (260) 459-2222 www.eddiemerlots.com

Wagyu tomahawk ribeye $99

Chef's creations $28

370

DND / DND

Steven Kulas Nelson Castillo

Bill Humphries

2001

Joseph Decuis Farm-grilled 100% Wagyu beef ribeye $95

Portobella & Porcini Mushroom Ravioli Leeks, Mascarpone, Parmesan, Asparagus $20

180

DND / DND

Carmen McGee

Alice Eshelman

2000

2

Joseph Decuis 191 N. Main St., Roanoke (260) 672-1715 www.josephdecuis.com

Slow Boat to Tokyo $70

Pad thai $9

200

12 / 22

Mitchelle Gestineau

Mike Lee

2010

3

Naked Tchopstix 8607 U.S. 24 West, Fort Wayne (260) 436-2211 www.nakedtchopstix.net

Four lobster tail dinner $60

Vegetable jambalaya $14

150

DND / DND

Ben Hall

Hall Drive-Ins Inc.

1958

4

The Gas House 305 E. Superior St., Fort Wayne (260) 426-3411 www.donhalls.com Cork 'N Cleaver 221 E. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 484-7772 www.corkncleaveronline.com

Twin lobster tails $58

Hawaiian chicken $22

156

DND / DND

Josh Seward

Ellen and Josh Seward

1994

Alaskan king crab legs (1-1/2 pounds) $54

Tilapia $20

160

DND / DND

Frank Cassagrande

Frank Casagrande, Tom Sokolik, Paula Phillips

2004

6

Paula's on Main 1732 W. Main St., Fort Wayne (260) 424-2300 Facebook page under Paula's On Main

7

Trolley Steaks & Seafood 2898 E. Dupont Road, Fort Wayne (260) 490-4322 www.TrolleySteaksandSeafood.com

Alaskan king crab legs $50

Grilled chicken sandwich $10

250

DND / DND

Derik Usina

Todd Smith

2004

6-ounce smothered sirloin $13

223

DND / DND

Tim Hall

Hall Drive-Ins Inc.

1978

8

Don Hall's Guesthouse Grill & Lounge Twin tail lobster $38 1313 W. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 489-2524 www.donhalls.com

1

5

Catablu Grille 6372 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 456-6563 http://thecatablugrille.com

21-day aged ribeye $34

Barbeque ranch burger $12

140

DND / DND

Michael Catalogna

Michael and Maureen Catalogna

1998

Twin tails (two 5-ounce lobster tails) $34

Chopped Steak $11

220

DND / DND

Kevin Connett

Hall Drive-Ins Inc.

1946

10

Don Hall's Triangle Park Bar & Grille 3010 Trier Road, Fort Wayne (260) 482-4342 www.donhalls.com

Lobster samurai $34

Chicken hibachi $18

80

DND / DND

John Secheverell

Hall Drive-Ins Inc.

1978

11

Takaoka of Japan 305 E. Superior St., Fort Wayne (260) 424-3183 www.donhalls.com

Twin lobster tails $32

Top steak $12

300

DND / DND

Luke Hall

Hall Drive-Ins Inc.

1972

12

Don Hall's Factory Steakhouse 5811 Coldwater Road, Fort Wayne (260) 484-8693 www.donhalls.com

9

Current as of Sept. 1, 2015, DND: Did not disclose Source: Business Weekly research

It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants or to imply the size of the business indicates its quality. Although every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the Business Weekly's top list, omissions sometimes occur. Information is often based on responses from the businesses to Business Weekly surveys. Please send corrections or additions on letterhead to Researcher, Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly, 3306 Independence Dr., Fort Wayne, IN 46808,or e-mail research@kpcmedia.com Copyright 2015 by KPC Media Group Inc., Kendallville, IN. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of this list may be made without permission of KPC Media Group Inc. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use, reprint, image or reproduction of this list without permission.

Meeting & Event Guide • 2016 • fwbusiness.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Page 13

LARGEST RANK

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 17 19 20

GUEST ROOMS

NAME/ADDRESS PHONE/WEB Courtyard Fort Wayne Downtown at the Grand Wayne Convention Center 1150 S. Harrison St., Fort Wayne (260) 490-3629 marriott.com/fwadt Hilton Fort Wayne at the Grand Wayne Convention Center 1020 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne (260) 420-1100 www.ftwayne.hilton.com Hotel Fort Wayne 305 E. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 484-0411 www.hotelftwaynein.com Wyndham Garden 2519 E. Center St., Warsaw (574) 269-2323 www.ramadawarsaw.com Holiday Inn IPFW 4111 Paul Shaffer Drive, Fort Wayne 260-482-3800 www.fortwayneholidayinn.com Courtyard Fort Wayne 1619 W. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 489-1500 marriott.com/fwacy Potawatomi Inn Resort and Conference Center 6 Lane 100 A, Lake James, Angola (260) 833-1077 www.indianainns.com Don Hall's Guesthouse 1313 W. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 489-2524 www.donhalls.com Hyatt Place Fort Wayne 111 W. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 471-8522 hyattplace.com Hampton Inn Southwest 8219 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne (260) 459-1999 www.ftwaynesouthwest.hamptoninn.com Residence Inn 7811 West Jefferson Boulevard, Fort Wayne 260-432-8000 www.residenceinn.com/FWARI Quality Inn 1734 W. Washington Center Road, Fort Wayne (260) 489-5554 qualityinnftwayne.in.com Super 81 5710 Challenger Parkway, Fort Wayne (260) 489-0050 www.super8.com Best Western Luxbury Inn 5501 Coventry Lane, Fort Wayne (260) 436-0242 www.bwfortwayne.com Hilton Garden Inn Fort Wayne 8615 U.S. Hwy 24 West, Fort Wayne (260) 435-1777 www.fortwayne.hgi.com Staybridge Suites 5925 Ellison Road, Fort Wayne (260) 432-2427 www.staybridge.com/fortwaynein Candlewood Suites 5251 Distribution Drive, Fort Wayne (260) 484-1400 www.candlewoodsuites.com Best Western Kendallville Inn 621 Professional Way, Kendallville (260) 347-5263 bestwestern.com/innkendallville Homewood Suites by Hilton 8621 US Hwy 24 West, Fort Wayne (260) 432-5100 fortwayne.homewoodsuites.com Comfort Inn 7275 S. S.R. 75 East, Warren (260) 375-4800 www.warrencomfortinn.com

Current as of December 2015 DND: Did not disclose Source: Business Weekly research 1 Formerly Fairfield Inn

Page 14

HOTELS PERCENT BUSINESS: CORPORATE VS. LEISURE CORPORATE RATE OWNER/LOCATION

GENERAL MANAGER SALES CONTACT

7

60/40

Varies

White Lodging Services, Merrillville

Dale Nysetvold

Jennifer Morin

246

5

80/20

Varies

Welcome Group, Torrance, Calif.

Mark Luttik

Kurt Brown

222

10

65/35

$129-$139

Braveheart Investments, Fort Wayne

157

9

70/30

$99-$129

Shaffner and Shaffner Enterprises, Warsaw

James Hurley

James Hurley

151

4

75/25

$117

Jerry & Patricia Good, Sarasota, FL

Robert Evans

Brian Brandon

142

3

75/25

Varies

RLJ, DND

Kari Fraine

Courtney Drobac

138

8

33/67

Varies

State of Indiana, Indianapolis

Thomas Peet

Hilary Price

124

29

6/40

$95

Don Hall's Restaurants, Fort Wayne

Tim Hall

Dawn Nichter Holly Ireton

120

3

70/30

$139

HPT TRS SPEC II Inc., Fort Wayne

Natasha Arntz

Angie McCaffrey Kathy Stanley

118

1

75/25

Varies

DND, DND

Derrick Robertson Linda Skaggs

109

0

DND/DND

DND

DND, DND

Derrick Robertson Linda Skaggs

102

2

60/40

$69.99-$84.99

Umapati, Inc., North Carolina

Hemant Jinwala

Rhonda Jacquay

100

0

50/50

10 percent off rack rate

Hari AUM Hospitality, DND

Sonny Patel

Sonny Patel

95

2

70/30

$80.99

Aashka Hospitality Group Corp., Fort Wayne

Dev Piprottar

Dev Piprottar Johnray Perez

84

2

65/35

$139

Ash Lakhany, Coventry Hospitality LLC, Fort Wayne

Kelly Sanserino Tom Fidanza Bill Brewer Al Becklin Omid Zahedi

Mary Moore Tina Stacy

84

1

80/20

$109-$169

Fort Wayne Hotel Partners, Fishers

Eric Goff

Diane Michaels

83

1

60/40

DND

Focus Hospitality, DND

Jane Margaret Hathaway Sabrina Thor

Andrea Hill Melinda Scott

83

1

75/25

$75

Atithi Hospita;l;ity In, Kendallville

Kathleen A. Dues

Kathleen Dues

79

1

65/35

$149

Ash Lakhany, Fort Wayne

Al Becklin Lindsay Morgan

Tina Stacy

66

1

60/20

$89

JB Hospitality Inc, DND

Mehul Zalavadia Sonny Patel

Mehul Zalavadia Sonny Patel

250

NO. MEETING ROOMS

Sheila Dean

It is not the intent of this list to endorse the participants or to imply the size of the business indicates its quality. Although every attempt is made to ensure the accuracy and thoroughness of the Business Weekly's top list, omissions sometimes occur. Information is often based on responses from the businesses to Business Weekly surveys. Please send corrections or additions on letterhead to Researcher, Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly, 3306 Independence Dr., Fort Wayne, IN 46808,or e-mail research@kpcmedia.com Copyright 2015 by KPC Media Group Inc., Kendallville, IN. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of this list may be made without permission of KPC Media Group Inc. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use, reprint, image or reproduction of this list without permission.

Meeting & Event Guide • 2016 • fwbusiness.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.

Arena, Expo Center & Conference Center

Specializing in events for

guests

Total of

7+,57< (,*+7 event space options

More than

0,//,21 visitors each year for 25 consecutive years Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | 4000 Parnell Avenue | Fort Wayne, IN 46805 For more information: (260) 482-9502 www.memorialcoliseum.com Meeting & Event Guide â&#x20AC;˘ 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ fwbusiness.com â&#x20AC;˘ ŠKPC Media Group Inc.

Page 15

Steuben County Is Northern Indiana’s Lakes Country…

Conveniently located at the intersection of I-80/90 and I-69.

Northern Indiana Lakes Country is home to Pokagon State Park. Nestled within the park’s confines is Northeast Indiana’s premier convention center - a hidden jewel waiting to host your meeting. The Potawatomi Inn Resort and Conference Center offers more than 11,000 square feet of meeting space with on-site catering, two restaurants, indoor pool, fitness room, and all the beauty of nature found within the park. For more information, call Hilary Price at 260-833-1077.

Experience the Potawatomi Inn at www.indianainns.com

Ramada Inn offers four meeting rooms that can hold up to 200 people in its largest room. Additional hotel amenities include: • Heated indoor pool, hot tub & sauna • Fitness center • Game room • New banquet center • On-site 6 Autumns Food & Spirits

Located at 3855 N. St. Rd. 127 at I-69 exit 354.

For more information, call 260-665-9471.

Experience Northern Indiana Lakes Country: • 101 Lakes • 6 Golf Courses • Pokagon State Park • The Outlet Shoppes at Fremont • Satek Winery • Briali Vineyards & Winery • Wild Winds Buffalo Preserve • Chapman’s Brewing Company Page 16

For additional help with planning your meeting, call (800) LAKE-101 or visit lakes101.org

Meeting & Event Guide • 2016 • fwbusiness.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc.