ConventionSouth Magazine - July 2014 by Marlane White

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Married To The South For 30 Years & Still In Love. J U LY 2 0 1 4

VOLUME 30 â&#x20AC;¢ NUMBER 12

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Have Fun for 12 More Months!

putting it in

perspective Serve Up A Cup Of Authenticity Most meetings are—by nature—anything but authentic. The host organization, the destination and venue, the sponsors, exhibitors and presenters are all trying to position themselves in the “best light” and doing everything they can to woo attendees. At the same time, in today’s mega-marketing world, most of us crave authenticity, real content and real value. Being authentic at meetings doesn’t mean eliminating “sales messages.” Rather, it’s about allowing the sponsors to have honest, real-talk conversations with attendees while their branding messages are splashed throughout the event. If your trade show is set up in a “by appointment” fashion, schedule the time slots for extended periods such as 15 minutes or more, rather than the “speed-dating style.” Ask exhibitors to express their messages in st being myself...a silly mommy! fun and interesting ways that provide value and don’t appear gimmicky. You can also set the stage for authenticity by selecting a destination and venue that has genuine character. You’ll find numerous examples as you read through this month’s featured section on smaller markets. From Garrett County, Md., to Amarillo, Texas, these destinations are home to salt-of-the-earth people that provide good ole fashion hospitality. Their hotels may not scrape the skies, but you can be assured that most of you attendees will appreciate staying “grounded” and focused on the meeting and will value the feelgood settings and one-of-a-kind attractions as platforms for real connections. As an added tidbit, make sure you check out page 8 and the strategy insight about using nostalgia at your next meeting as a “feeling-good amplifier.”

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Kristen S. McIntosh

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MARKETING SERVICES MANAGER MANAGER, TRAFFIC AND PROMOTIONS MARKETING COORDINATOR CIRCULATION MANAGER CONTRIBUTING EDITORS EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Ashleigh Osborne

Dorothy P. White Blakeli Myrick Ashley Brokowsky Janis Helton Marcia Bradford Jenny Anderson, CMP National Association of College & University Business Officers David Bruce, MMP, HTS CMP Meeting Services

Editor@ConventionSouth.com • @CSMagEditor on Twitter

Jeff Hurt Velvet Chainsaw Consulting

Marlane Andrea Bundock is the associate publisher and editor of ConventionSouth Media Group.

Robert Mandelbaum PKF Consulting Meg Slentz Nagy, CMP Meetings To Order

contact me with your thoughts!

Sue Walton May & Williams Ltd. James Hobbs Meeting Expectations

ConventionSouth (ISSN 1074-0627) is published monthly by Covey Communications Corp., P.O. Box 2267, Gulf Shores, AL 36547. It is mailed under Standard mail rates. POSTMASTER: CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED TO ConventionSouth Subscription Office, P.O. Box 2267, Gulf Shores, AL 36547. Editorial and advertising offices are located at 2001 West First St., Gulf Shores, AL 36542. Editorial ideas, photographs and content suggestions are welcomed; however, the publisher and editorial team retains the right to edit all content in print and online. Photos are typically obtained from direct sources and credits are given at the discretion of the editorial team. Copyright 2014 by Covey Communications Corp. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission of the publisher or editor is strictly forbidden.

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Loriann White, CMM, CMP American Express Meetings & Events

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what’s

inside JULY 2014

VOLUME 30 • NUMBER 12

Destination Showdown:

Feel Good Settings

Big Rewards in Small Markets

From Mt.Sterling, Kentucky to Amarillo, Texas, the Southʼs small markets can offer your small groups a feel-good setting like no other. Be the big fish in one of the many second- and third-tier destinations found in this special guide.

Chattanooga

p.14

our some of the South’s top small markets with this handy map & special information & advertising section.

WINTER WARM SPOTS

Your Top 10 Picks For Best Destinations p. 10 Head on down to South Carolinaʼs Grand Strand! Readers and Facebook fans came together and made Myrtle Beach the top winter warm spot in the South for 2014. Find out what makes this city “hot” during the winter months and see what other cities made your top 10 list.

Healthcare Havens p. 13 Our picks for healthcare havens make smart choices for your next medical-minded gathering. With nearby medical facilities in these lesser-traveled locales, attendees will really focus.

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Central Mississippi

p. 6-7 insight & ideas

Blue Ridge Mountains

Whatʼs making headlines in the meetings industry, plus tech tools

p. 8-9 news across the south p. 73 Advertising Reference Guide

Support our partners, find out who came together to make this special honors and awards issue a success.

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headlines • trends • ideas STRATEGY: Use The Power Of Nostalgia To Engage Attendees Think Music, Cars & Movies From Years Past To Conjure Up Positive Emotions

The feeling of nostalgia can be a powerful tool in enhancing the attendee experience and making meetings and events more effective, according to marketing experts. “As we age, our nostalgic yearnings grow, making us more receptive to advertisers and marketers use of what researchers call ‘a longing for positive memories from the past,’” says Derrick Daye of The Blake Project in his blog Branding Strategy Insider. “In addition to time’s arrow, this desire for nostalgia is further intensified by society’s present circumstance of receding predictability and opportunity. Moreover, nostalgia can make us feel that not so much time has passed between then and now, making us feel young again.” So what themes are ideal for creating a nostalgic feeling that speaks to attendees? Music, cars and movies live on forever, Daye says. “The music, cars and movies you identified with when

you were young stick with you throughout your life,” he said. “Take music, recordings that were released when we were teenagers or young adults, are locked into our memories forever, to release a flood of vivid memories and emotions when replayed, especially in ads. For example, people who were 20 in 1964, when the Beatles appeared on ‘The Ed Sullivan Show,’ will turn 70 this year, are a prime target for nostalgic marketing appeals.” Daye says event marketers need not to relate the nostalgic theme directly to the content of the event, as long as warm feelings are stirred up. “It is the emotion generated from that good feeling that influences people; recollection provides context and context impacts on how we evaluate things.” The Blake Project is an independently owned, strategic brand consultancy with experience

#MeetingLifeHacks

Easy Solutions To Common Meeting Problems A life hack is a clever yet simple trick to solving lifeʼs everyday problems. You can find these tips online on websites like LifeHack.org and on social media through the hashtag #lifehack. ConventionSouth brings you these life hacks geared specifically to solving your meetings challenges. ■

Problem: Momentum Is Lost During Mealtime Meeting Life Hack: Bring Out The Chef For Edu-tainment Executive Chef Thomas Hiestand of Myrtle Beachʼs Kingston Resorts says “edu-tainment” is a big part of what his team does. “We enjoy educating our guests about our traditions and philosophies whether itʼs conversing at the buffet station or visiting a table. We also encourage meeting planners to think outside the box with us. We develop custom menus and eclectic stations to ramp up the enthusiasm for groups. This energy transfers over into the programs and other components of the meetings.” ■

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helping brands gain an advantage in the mind of the customer. Learn more at www.branding strategyinsider.com. ■

Attractions across the South offer attendees the opportunity to “stroll down memory lane.” Pictured above, the 1965 Mercedes Benz of The Beatles’ John Lennon at the Sarasota (Fla.) Classic Cer Museum.

Find more #MeetingLifeHacks on in this issue as well as online at www Twitter pages.

Problem: Not Receiving Timely Attendee Feedback Meeting Life Hack: Event Apps With Live-Polling Receive more timely feedback from your attendees through an easy-to-use app. Event networking platform and mobile app Bizzabo allows you to use polls and surveys to gain attendee insights on just about any topic you would like. Who was the most popular speaker? Most fun theme? Bizzabo also gives you a deeper level of attendee insight by filtering poll results based on job title, industry, experience and more. For example, you can filter and view C-level executive responses to a specific question. ■

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Mark Your Calendar For November 13 - 14

XSITE Show Adds Birmingham Location, Event Planners Hosted

The XSITE Show, a subsidiary of Site Search Inc. and game changer in the tradeshow arena in Florida, has announced the addition of its first Birmingham, Ala., event Nov. 13 & 14, 2014. According to Richard Miseyko, CMP, CMM, and show founder, “The response to our appointment format was overwhelming to the point that our supplier participants asked us to create events in other regions. As a result, we forged a partnership with the Birmingham CVB and our host hotel, The Westin Birmingham. The demographics of Birmingham, the surrounding drive market, and an abundance of planners representing all market segments made it the perfect location.” An XSITE show consists of 15 eight minute pre-scheduled appointments in a face-to-face and highly interactive format. Meeting planners supply a profile of the size and type of events they

plan, and hoteliers supply specifications on the size and scope of meetings they can accommodate. A proprietary match-making software program allows the participants to pre-select who they meet with saving time and facilitating a higher ratio of business connections. XSITE also provides topical and relevant meeting planner focused educational breakouts with CEU credits available toward CMP certifications. “The benefit for planners is having hoteliers, destinations and venue representatives from across the country in one place to meet and discuss their conference needs.” says Miseyko. Planners pay nothing to attend plus they receive complimentary guestrooms and a $100 American Express Gift Card for completing their scheduled appointments. “XSITE even turns the tables on the seating.

4 Reasons You Should Attend: • Earn credits for your CMP • Meet with top suppliers • Free registration & lodging • Earn a $100 gift card The meeting planners are seated at their own table and the suppliers rotate between appointments. The appointments are the absolute best use of time and a welcome change from traditional shows with suppliers standing in booths hoping for a customer to wander by.” says Tara Liaschenko, CMM and XSITE strategic partner. Registration is now open at www.xsiteshow.com. ■

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across the

south Georgia

Florida New Guide Shows Off Pensacola’s Best Spots PENSACOLA—Visit Pensacola has officially released the 2014 Pensacola Bay Area Visitor Guide. This comprehensive magazine is created to not only provide valuable information, but also to assist visitors and group planners in efficiently planning their trip to Pensacola, Pensacola Beach and Perdido Key. The 2014 Visitor Guide includes special sections dedicated to the areas beaches, Downtown District, local culinary flavors and Pensacola’s history. The guide also includes travel tips, a calendar of events and detailed area maps.

Atlanta CVB’s Vaughan Elected To ASAE Board ATLANTA—The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) has selected Mark Vaughan, executive vice president and chief sales officer of the Atlanta CVB, to serve on the ASAE and ASAE Foundation boards of directors. Vaughan will serve a threeyear term that begins Sept. 1 and will be officially installed at the 2014 ASAE Annual Meeting and Exposition, Aug. 9-12 in Nashville. “Mark is a well-known and respected leader in the hospitalVaughn ity community and it is a great honor that he has been nominated,” said William Pate, ACVB president.

Louisiana 30-Year-Old NOLA Hotel To Look Younger Than Ever NEW ORLEANS (NOLA)—The

InterContinental New Orleans is undergoing a $26 million renovation, the first major work performed at the property since its opening in 1984. The new lobby entrance is the design centerpiece of the renovation, according to hotel officials. The new and renovated spaces accommodate a lounge and a signature restaurant, adjoining the open first level lobby. Other additions include new second level meeting spaces and a total of 12,000 square feet of meeting space, as well as 479 completely renovated guest rooms. The enhancements are expected to debut by early fall.

Mississippi Say Goodbye To Harrah’s Casino TUNICA—Harrah’s Tunica has closed, according to officials with Caesars Entertainment who said they will help the city find another use for the building. “After exploring every other viable alternative, we have come to

the difficult but necessary conclusion to close Harrah’s Tunica in an effort to appropriately position our business for the current market opportunity and ensure the long-term viability of our remaining operations in the vicinity,” said John Payne, Caesars Entertainment president of central markets and partnership development. Meanwhile, the company plans to invest about $20 million in its other Tunica properties: the Horseshoe Casino and the Roadhouse Casino. Caesars is also spending about $40 million in the remodel and rebranding of the Grand Casino in Biloxi.

Missouri New Hand-Held Walking Tour Of St. Louis Available ST. LOUIS—A new digital audio tour has been released to help

DESTINATIONS TO WATCH

TUSCALOOSA, Alabama

ROLAND, Oklahoma

TRYON, North Carolina

In June, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox unveiled almost $20 million worth of capital improvement projects that includes upgrades to several parks, according to the Tuscaloosa News. The University of Alabama is also partnering with City Hall to upgrade the Bryant Conference Center. Maddox plans to direct $2 million toward the project, which he said would help attract larger conventions and events than the city has seen in the past. ■

Construction is underway on the Cherokee Casino and Hotel in Roland, an east Oklahoma community along I-40 near Fort Smith, Ark. The project will more than triple the size of the current casino, bringing a six-story, resort-style hotel with 120 guest rooms to the area. The casino is scheduled to open May 2015 and the hotel to follow in August. Plans also include 7,200 square feet of convention center space, an entertainment venue and two dining options: a grab-and-go cafe and a buffet. ■

Construction has begun on Tryon Resort with cabins and an 150-room hotel located on a 1,400-acre retreat in the foothills of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountain range. The project includes the Tryon International Equestrian Center and Sports Complex. Tryon Resort is set to open in 2016 near I-74, an hour west of Charlotte Douglas International Airport, 40 minutes from the South Carolina region of Greenville and Spartanburg, and the same distance from Asheville, N.C. ■

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On Site R ep Mary Habort By an visitors explore the history of the Gateway City during its 250th birthday year. Told in “lively” story segments augmented with music and sound effects, the tour audio immerses listeners in historic events from the city’s past and introduces them to today’s top attractions. “This is a great introListen & ductory tour of historic Learn inis downtown St. Louis,” u o St. L said creator Randy Tankersley. “I want visitors to really feel the past come to life.” The new tour unit is available for purchase at the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission's downtown visitor centers in Kiener Plaza and other locations throughout the city. A complete list of outlets is available online at www.StoriedWalk.com.

Tennessee

Country Music Hall Of Fame And Museum Expands NASHVILLE—The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has celebrated a major milestone by recently unveiling its 210,000square-foot expansion this April, more than doubling in size. It marks the final phase of the museum’s expansion—10,000 square feet of new gallery space— joining recently

opened additions including the 800seat CMA Theater, the Taylor Swift Education Center, a new home for the letterpress operation Hatch Show Print and the Event Hall. The expansion also includes archival and library storage.

Texas

Ford Park To Add Hotel & Waterpark BEAUMONT—Jefferson County Commissioners and the Beaumont City ORLANDO, Fla.—Hilton Orlandoʼs new outdoor Promenade gives your meeting Council have approved a attendees something to get excited about when hosting an event among its developer’s proposed $40 50,000 square feet of outdoor meeting space. The thoughtfully designed venue million leisure and enterincludes water elements among fossil stone and cedar to capture the spirit of tainment project at Ford Central Florida. Park in Beaumont that will Functionality can be found throughout the Promenadeʼs four areas, making it feature a family-style water easy to use one or combine all spaces to host an intimate or grand event for park and a 200-room Emup to 3,000 guests. Artificial turf grass keeps the Promenadeʼs look eventbassy Suites convention hotel. ready and makes walking around in heels a breeze. What about rain? A seThe project will build upon ries of underdrains allow the entire Promenade to drain completely within the existing sports, entertainment minutes of an afternoon shower. and convention offerings of Ford In total, the recreation area houses a lazy river and zero-entry pool, Park. The hotel will be attached to roaring fire pits, a nine-hole executive putting green, a 1⁄4 mile jogFord Exhibit Hall and will improve ging track, and basketball, tennis and bocce ball courts. visitor amenities and accommodaInside, the hotel offers natural textures with warm glows from tions for Beaumont’s largest conglimmering chandeliers. Quiet and peaceful, youʼd never know vention and exhibition space, this hotel was directly connected by covered walkway to the making it possible for the BeauOrange County Convention Center. With 1,400 rooms mont Convention and Visitor’s are curand suites, three ballrooms, nine boardrooms, Bureau to attract new and larger rently unavailand 21 meeting rooms, the Hilton Orlando is conventions that previously passed able in the market, primed for meetings greatness. ■ over Beaumont due to requirements said Ford Park of on-site accommodations which leadership.

Find ‘Smart Design’ At New Events Promenade

Galan Joins Hotel Galvez As Executive Chef GALVESTON—Antonio Galan has been named executive chef at Hotel Galvez and Spa, A Wyndham Grand Hotel. Galan is responsible for overseeing Galvez Bar and Grill, Sunday Brunch, the poolside grill, room service as well as banquets. “I’m so glad for the opportunity to be part of such a great team,” said Galan. “I consider them as my ‘The Galvez Family.’” w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

Prior to Galveston, Galan was the executive chef at LaTorretta Lake Resort and Spa in Conroe and at the Houston Airport Marriott Hotel in Houston where he was responsible for two full-service restaurants and banquets. ■

Galan

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STAYWARM DURING WINTER MEETINGS AT THESE 10 HOT SPOTS By Marcia Bradford

inter may be the “off season” for tourism, but it’s the peak

meeting hot spots in the South, we asked our readers and Face-

season for meetings and with so many great meeting desti-

book fans to vote for the best places to hold a meeting or event

nations in the South, there’s no reason to give up outdoor

adventure when groups gather. To help identify the best

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

More than 100 championship golf courses, 60 miles of beaches and a boardwalk along 1.2 miles of stunning Atlantic Ocean shoreline can be enjoyed here all winter long, due to average winter highs in the lower 60s. Attractions like the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, a giant 200-foot observation wheel with six-person glass gondolas, and Broadway at the Beach complement outdoor adventures such as sailing, fishing and casino cruises. Visit historic mansions, museums, an aquarium and famous gardens by day. In the evenings, enjoy dinner theater, symphony concerts and a lively nightclub scene. ■

during the winter months. From a list of 50 destinations across the South and Caribbean Seas region, here are their top 10 choices:

Savannah, Georgia From October through March, temperatures in this charming, historic Southern city, reach a pleasant 70 degrees. As the locals say: “You call it the perfect weather for a winter meeting, we call it December...and January...and February...and...:” It’s no surprise then that fall and winter in Savannah are full of fun events like the Savannah Speed Classic, a Rock ‘n Roll Marathon, food, wine and film festivals, along with the Black Heritage Festival and a home and gardens tour. ■

Tybee Island, Georgia

Just 18 miles east of Savannah, this funky island paradise offers five miles of sandy beaches, romantic sunsets, fresh seafood and fun for all ages, year round. Attractions remain open all winter, when the average temp is 58. Learn the secrets of the sea at the Tybee Marine Science Center, or climb 154 feet to the top of the Tybee Light Station, the first lighthouse on the South Atlantic Coast. Picnic on the pier and pavilion at the island’s south end. Or, visit the Tybee Island Museum, where exhibits depict 400 years of the island’s history. ■

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Virginia Beach, Virginia

Daytona Beach, Florida

From Biketoberfest in October to the Rolex 24 in January to Bike Week in March, the “World’s Most Famous Beach” is full of winter activity, highlighted by the Daytona 500 at the famous Daytona International Speedway in February. Expect highs in the upper 60s, providing fine weather for outdoor events like the Daytona Beach Film Festival, Daytona Blues Festival, Wings & Waves air show, Halifax Arts Festival, and 41st annual Turkey Run. A growing number of flagged oceanfront hotels add to meeting options in this popular resort city. ■

M ar

Both the Travel Channel and USA Today list the town’s classic wooden beach boardwalk among America’s best and you can walk, bike or ride the tram along it in winter. Many restaurants and bars stay open all winter, when temperatures range between the high 40s and low 70s. October starts a winter season of fishing competitions and car shows. Restaurant week in November is followed by Winterfest. There’s golf at 17 championship courses, hiking and biking. Visit the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum to learn about the ancestor organization of today’s Coast Guard. ■

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Ocean City, Maryland

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“Here, we have only one season. Beach.” Virginia Beach’s mild winters, with highs near 60, draw visitors to the resort town’s sandy Atlantic shore, to stroll or bike along the three-mile raised boardwalk. Scenic marshes in Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park are perfect for kayaking, hiking, and fishing. For dining, shopping and entertainment, Town Center offers big city glamour wrapped up in small town charms. Check out the Virginia Beach Aviation Museum, the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center and Adventure Parks’ multilevel ropes courses. ■

Miami, Florida

Miami’s sub-tropical climate has long beckoned winter travelers. Pictureperfect weather allows year-round sailing, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, biking and hiking. But there’s also lots of cultural activities during fall, winter and spring, when highs are in the mid 70s. Attractions are discounted during October, while December brings the prestigious Art Basel to town. In February, there’s The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival and early spring brings the Miami International Film Festival. ■

Jekyll Island, Georgia Once an exclusive winter retreat for America’s most elite families, Jekyll Island now offers historic elegance and a lush coastal setting for meetings and events. Today’s winter guests will enjoy highs of 65-76 degrees, great for touring the Jekyll Island Museum and the cottage colony to relive the ritz of the gilded age. Learn about wildlife conservation at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, or try out 63 superb holes of golf on four island courses. Enjoy eco-excursions, dining on seafood and Southern classics, and Jekyll Trolley Ghost Tours. ■

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Hot Springs, Arkansas

What better time to take a soothing soak in thermal hot springs than during the cooler months? Ever since Hernando de Soto wintered here over 400 years ago, visitors have enjoyed the thermal waters of the town’s natural hot springs and its more recent world-class spas. But with highs in the 60s, Hot Springs offers many other types of winter activities, including golf, fishing and motorsports, art exhibitions, museums and dinner theater. ■

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Charleston, South Carolina

Steeped in Southern hospitality, Charleston’s a great place to explore in the cooler winter months, whether on foot or by carriage. Fall, winter and spring activities include tours of historic homes, parks and plantations. The Charleston Museum showcases low country artifacts, while the Fire Museum houses restored equipment and the Maritime Museum offers aircraft carrier and submarine tours. This is also a seaport with beautiful beaches nearby, so there’s lots of watersports, as well as golf courses and nature trails to enjoy when winter highs reach into the mid 60s. ■

Curaçao, South Caribbean Located in the Dutch Caribbean, just 12 degrees north of the equator, Curaçao (tied for 10th place) has a warm, sunny climate year- round, with highs in the mid-80s. The island offers a unique, vibrant culture and blend of history, dining and adventure. Yet it still feels undiscovered, like an exclusive hideaway. Enjoy championship golf. Bike, kayak and hike. Meetings in Curaçao are tax exempt through the Tax Information Exchange Agreement (TIEA). ■

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M E D I C A L

M E E T I N G S

Secret Havens

for Healthcare Groups More often, groups in the healthcare industry are looking for a “convenient hideaway” where attendees can have less distractions and a higher degree of focus. However, you won’t want to get off the beaten path unless your aiming for a destination with a medical infrastructure to give you access to healthcare facilities and experts. We found six destinations dotted across the South that offer high-quality medical and meeting facilities as well as a good mix of luxury and economical accommodations, and ample recreation opportunities such as unique places to dine and shop.

Lake Nona

It’s been called a new chapter in Orlando’s history. The 650-acre health and life sciences park known as Lake Nona Medical City is a landmark for Orlando and a premier location for medical care, research and education. Lake Nona Medical City represents a deliberate strategy to create a centralized focus of sophisticated medical treatment, research and education in Central Florida. Based on the proven theory that a cluster of healthcare and bioscience facilities in proximity to one another will accelerate innovation, this intellectual hub opened in a coordinated fashion with a collaborative mission. In just the last seven years, Lake Nona Medical City has become home to some of the nation’s top hospitals, universities, research institutions and health and life science companies. Already Lake Nona Medical City’s pioneering institutions are forming networks making Orlando a global destination for health care, research and medical education. With Lake Nona’s adjacent location to Orlando International Airport, nearby meeting facilities include airport hotels such as Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport. ■

Cary

Kingsport

Southaven

Deemed one of the “Best and Safest Places to Live” in the U.S., Cary is minutes from one of the largest research parks in the world, Research Triangle Park, which is currently re-developing and expanding, as well as Western Wake Medical Center and Siemens Co.

Located in Eastern Tennessee, Kinsgport is home to Wellmont health Systems’ Holston Valley Medical Center, which has been named a “Top 50 U.S. Cardiovascular Hospital.” In this mountainous region, recreation abounds, including the popular Greenbelt, a 10mile walking and biking trail.

Just south of Memphis, Southaven is home to Baptist Memorial Hospital-DeSoto that is designated as a “top performing” hospital in 2011 by U.S. News & World Report and selected as the Hospital of the Year by the Mississippi Nurses’ Association in 2010. w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

Lake Nona, Fla., is emerging a “Medical City” with its numerous healthcare institutions like The SanfordBurnham Medical Research Institute, pictured at top.

Lewisburg

The Woodlands

Home of West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine and nestled in the heart of the Greenbrier Valley, Lewisburg has been called one of “America’s Coolest Small Towns” by Budget Travel magazine.

Located just 30 minutes north of Houston and 15 minutes from George Bush Intercontinental Airport, The Woodlands is situated in a peaceful, natural setting to create a productive, distractionfree environment. Along with its proximity to Houston’s medical industry, The Woodlands is home to the US Oncology Network. ■

Animal Care

With great veterinary schools, College Station, Texas; Auburn, Alabama; and Louisville, Kentucky make ideal places for animal-care groups to gather. ■ J U L Y 2 0 1 4 ⎜ ConventionSouth ⎜

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Feel Good Settings

Big Rewards in Small Markets

From free parking that’s accessible to hotels and meeting venues to being the big fish in a small pond, the advantages of meeting within second- and third-tier destinations far outnumber any downfalls. So next time you’re seeking a new meeting site, think about feeling good at one of the South’s hundreds of smaller markets. Here are some of the many reasons why you’ll be glad you did:

Seasid e, Fla.

Preserve The Past & The Land With city growth occurring at a slower pace, smaller markets are often proactive when it comes to preserving their natural and historical areas as well as employing smart practices when it comes to building new structures. For example, along Florida’s Emerald Coast, the beach communities of Walton County are home to “new urbanism,” a type of development plan with strict building codes that includes the economical use of land, the discouragement of driving and the preservation of large areas of open space. Pictured right: Seaside, Fla., one of the destination’s 16 beach neighborhoods along the southern stretch of Walton County, was one of the country’s first new urbanism communities. ❃

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Walk On Down The Road In cities like Winston-Salem, N.C., you can find one central convention district where meeting sites and entertainment is all within walking distance. The folks in Winston-Salem call it their “Twin-City Quarter,” where you can meet, play, stay and eat. This downtown area is home to the Benton Convention Center, an Embassy Suites and a Marriott, as well as Fourth Street’s Restaurant Row and the Downtown Arts District. Pictured left: Graze Restaurant is one of several dining establishments located near the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem’s Twin-City Quarter convention district. ❃ w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

Rome , Ga.

Do Take It Personal With less cooks in the kitchen at CVBs for smaller markets, you’ll find a tighter-knit team approach. In Rome, Ga., for example, the Greater Rome CVB prides itself on their ease and flexibility when organizing meetings. The experienced staff works closely with vendors throughout the county, so their knowledge of the area and access to important resources makes them a one-stop-shop for all-things-Rome. Pictured right: The folks at the Greater Rome CVB and all of the city’s hospitality professionals work together to assist with group functions. ❃

Savan nah, G a.

Take It All In Attendees won’t leave saying that they “didn’t see anything” because they’ll be able to easily “take in the city” when meeting within destinations like Savannah, Ga. There, trolley, segway and walking tours allow groups to experience varying segments of the city such as history, architecture or food. Pictured left: One of Savannah’s many tour guides shows a group some of the city’s historical architecture. ❃

, Texas o l l i r a Am

Save Some Big Bucks From hotel rates and occupancy taxes to meal costs and more, things are often cheaper in smaller markets. For example, in Dalton, Ga., groups will find some of the best pricing for goods and services in the nation, as reported by Edge Magazine in Sept. 2013. The article noted: “Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that average prices paid by consumers for the mix of goods and services consumed in the area are about 15.3 percent below the national average.” Pictured below: Sweet Cheeks Denim Boutiques is one of the many unique shops found in Dalton, Ga. ❃

, Ga. Dalton

Explore Wide, Open Spaces Smaller markets like Amarillo, Texas, have wide-open-spaces for groups to experience the outdoors. Palo Duro Canyon State Park in Amarillo has nearly 30,000 acres where groups can camp, hike, mountain biking and zip line. Pictured above: Palo Duro Canyon State Park in • Less Traff Amarillo, Texas, allows ic groups to spread their • Less Crim e wings and experience the • Less Rus h in beauty of its undeveloped g • Less Wait ing In Lin lands. Tip: Visit in spring while es • Less Dist the wildflowers are blooming. ❃ ractio

“Less is Mo To Love Smre” Reasons all Markets

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C O V E R

S T O R Y

Small Markets Across The South

Find the perfect small market for your next meeting. Use this map to locate destinations that are actively working with meeting planners and read about many of these cities on the following pages.

Enjoy A Soda Pop

Small Market Map Key

In small towns, you can still find drive-in diners that aren’t fast food chains. Mugs Up in Columbia, Mo., is a small, family operated drive-in/car hop that’s been serving classic drive-thru favorites since 1955, including their homemade root beer (yes…it comes in thick glass mugs).

Small Market Gems: You may have never heard of these small, third-tier markets, but our editorial research team says they’re worth discovering as they are increasingly becoming destinations ready to accommodate small- and/or midsized meetings.

Woodward

Mid-Sized Stars: These second-tier markets have that perfect balance of small-town charm and big city amenities. Each offers a nearby airport and interstate access.

OK Amarillo (p. 30)

Small City Hot Spots: These third-tier destinations offer a laid-back environment that’s ideal for small groups who want that customized meeting experience. Each offers nearby interstate or highway access.

Lubbock (p. 52)

Shreveport (p. 41) Frisco (p. 20)

San Angelo (p. 53)

Beaumont (p. 39)

Brenham (p. 23)

Shenandoah Pearland (p. 22)

Watch The Parade Each May, downtown Victoria, Texas, comes alive for the annual Art Car Parade and Festival. The parade features over 50 “moving works of art,” from low riders and custom-painted cars to full-on mobile sculptures.

Galveston (p. 48) Victoria (p. 46)

McAllen (p. 24)

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Spend A Day At The Lake

Enjoy numerous lake activities from jet skiing to scuba diving on Summersville Lake, the largest lake in West Virginia.

Salisbury Parkersburg

WV Hampton (p. 42)

Summersville (p. 43) Mt. Sterling (p. 23)

Columbia

Wytheville (p. 40)

Winston-Salem (p. 37 & 2)

Chattanooga (p. 18)

Gatlinburg (p. 21)

Mooresville

Jackson

Helen Conway (p. 22)

Dalton (p. 28) Florence Huntsville (p. 34)

Douglasville (p. 19) Choctaw (p. 57)

Meridian (p. 35)

Lafayette (p. 50) Houma (p. 32)

Savannah (p. 25 & 76)

Albany (p. 26)

Enterprise

Point Clear (p. 27)

GA Macon (p. 36)

LA Marksville (p. 75)

Florence

Rome (p. 44)

MS Yazoo City

Pinehurst (p. 51)

Richmond Hill (p. 25) Valdosta (p. 38)

South Walton County (p. 33 & 3) Ocala

Kenner (p. 49)

FL Pick For Treasures Shopping in small towns can be a treasure hunters dream. In Ocala, Fla., attendees can search through antique treasures as they stroll along storied streets.

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Chattanooga Is Committed To Providing Exemplary Service Chattanooga is easily accessible, affordable and hospitable. Located centrally in the Southeast, Chattanooga is within two hours of Atlanta, Nashville, Knoxville, Huntsville and Birmingham. Downtown is safe and walkable. To make it easier to get around, there’s a free electric

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shuttle that connects the downtown hotels, restaurants, attractions, shopping and more. Chattanooga has grown to become a key regional meeting destination. Chattanooga boasts one of the top 10 green convention centers in the nation. Located downtown, the state-of-the-art facility offers 185,000 square feet of meeting space all on one level, including 100,800 square feet of column-free exhibit space. For complimentary assistance in planning your event, the Chattanooga CVB is ready to assist you and make sure your event runs smoothly and efficiently—from your initial interest to your final selection of hotels, facilities, restaurants, attractions and more. ■

The Chattanooga CVB staff provides the highest level of assistance when planning your meeting or convention. Meeting planners remark how their “Chattanooga Experience” of personal attention, efficiency, flexibility and a commitment to go above-and-beyond has made an incredible impression and has them eager to return.

get to know... Michelle Lawson, Convention Sales, Chattanooga CVB (800) 964-8600 michellel@chattanoogacvb.com www.chattanoogameetings.com

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Douglasville Conference Center—Elegantly Innovative The Douglasville Conference Center is a great venue for meetings and corporate events. Located in Douglasville, Georgia, less than 25 miles west of downtown Atlanta and Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the Conference Center offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Boasting innovation and elegance, the Douglasville Conference Center is a stunning landmark in the heart of downtown Douglasville with an equally impressive interior. The Conference Center includes a grand ballroom, multiple meeting rooms, a 150-seat auditorium, boardroom, business center, two green rooms, and a gorgeous rear terrace. Among the venue’s most exquisite design elements are its chic and relaxing pre-function

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areas. Perhaps the most striking feature of this multi-functional facility is its 7,672-squarefoot grand ballroom that dazzles with radiant chandeliers. The ballroom can hold up to 1,000 guests, and for smaller events, can be divided into five separate rooms. The Conference Center also offers free, convenient parking in an adjoining multi-level parking deck. As an added benefit, you and your guests can savor your event to the fullest with delicious food and beverages provided by our exclusive on-site caterer. Nestled in the heart of Douglasville’s scenic historic district, the Conference Center offers the perfect setting for attendees to soak up the local culture while doing business. With over 1,800 affordable sleeping rooms, it’s never hard to find a place to stay.

The Douglasville Conference Center staff is always friendly and accommodating, and is committed to offering world-class service that delivers stellar experiences and successful events. The Conference Center is also proud to offer customizable packages to suit your specific event needs. Call 678-715-6094 or visit www.visitdouglasville.com to start planning your upcoming event. ■

contact: Douglasville Conference Center (678) 715-6094 conferencecenter@ douglasvillega.gov www.visitdouglasville.com

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Frisco, Texas: Just My Kind Of City Centrally located in the United States, and 25 minutes north of downtown Dallas, Frisco, Texas is just 20 minutes from both DallasFort Worth International Airport and Love Field Airport. Frisco offers exceptional choices when it comes to hotels. From the resort-style Westin Stonebriar with over 24,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, to the Embassy Suites Hotel & Frisco Conference Center—home to the third largest ballroom in Texas—there is a spectrum of meeting options to accommodate everything from board meetings to overflow for your convention. Home to four professional sports teams and state-of-the-art sporting venues and more than 9 million square feet of shopping, your attendees will have plenty to do outside of your meeting. Catch a baseball game with Frisco

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RoughRiders, watch FC Dallas take on some of the best soccer players in the world at Toyota Stadium, or cool off inside Dr Pepper Arena at a Texas Legends basketball game or watch the Dallas Stars practice on their home ice. Choose from Frisco’s great adventure offsite activities like indoor electric go kart racing at Pole Position Raceway, one of the newest and most advanced wind tunnels in the world at iFly Indoor Skydiving, or the largest indoor luxury gun club in the nation at The Frisco Gun Club. As a meeting planner, you will enjoy the ease of working with our professional staff at the Frisco Convention & Visitors Bureau. Let our experienced and creative staff help you find the perfect hotel for your meeting or convention, plus exciting options for your

attendees and their families to enjoy outside the planned meeting activities. For more information, check out www.visitfrisco.com. ■

get to know... Marla Roe, Executive Director Frisco CVB As Executive Director, Marla is at the helm of everything that goes on within the Frisco CVB and possesses years of meetings and tourism industry know-how. (877) 463-7472 marla@visitfrisco.com www.visitfrisco.com

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Plan Your Meeting At A Place Where Space Is Never An Issue Nestled among the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is an ideal meetings destination. The Gatlinburg Convention Center boosts over 148,000 square feet of flexible meeting, banquet and exhibition space. An additional 50,000 square feet was added with the opening of W.L. Mills Conference Center adjoining the Convention Center. This expansion added a beautiful 17,000square-foot Ballroom, the Convention Center Gallery area at 38,200 square feet, which includes 18 meeting rooms, pre-function space, two private parlors and a special VIP/media suite. We have created a venue that takes your breath away as you enter the room and is ideal for any type of event— from a formal banquet or general session, to a themed celebration. And you’ll find lodging, dining and shopping only a few steps away. Gatlinburg can

accommodate every taste and budget with a wide variety of accommodation options including full service and limited-service hotels and motels, condominiums, chalets, cabins and campgrounds. We have more than 3,500 rooms within walking distance

of the Convention Center. No matter what your preference, Gatlinburg can accommodate your needs and desires. Even though Gatlinburg can provide big city amenities, it’s all still delivered with a genuine small town smile. ■

get to know... Karen Robertson, Director of Sales, Gatlinburg CVB A long-time veteran of the hospitality industry, Karen has spent most of her tenure in the CVB world.

(865) 430-1058 or (800) 343-1475 karen@gatlinburg.com www.meetings. gatlinburg.com

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Pearland: “A Perfect Pick”

Pearland is perfectly placed in the Gulf Coast Region of Texas within 10 miles of Houston and Hobby Airport. We are an affordable location with close proximity to Houston and area attractions. Meeting planners will find a combination of hotel and unique venues to suit their needs from board meetings to conferences. Pearland is bus-friendly and home to eleven hotels and over 15,000+ square feet of meeting/event space. ■

get to know... Megan Flowers, Sales & Event Manager, Pearland CVB Megan recently joined the Pearland CVB team and is passionate about creating experiences & serving her customer’s needs. She leads the sales efforts to increase Pearland’s awareness as a meeting destination. (713) 436-5907 mflowers@pearlandtx.gov www.visitpearland.com

Conway, Arkansas— Perfect for Small Meetings

Located just 30 miles northwest of Little Rock, Arkansas, Conway is a constantly growing college town. With its small town feel and population of 60,000, Conway is easy to navigate. Meeting space can be found on campus at any of our colleges and in several of our hotels. Home to eleven hotels built within the last five years and a constantly growing and changing restaurant scene, you can rest comfortably and enjoy your down time while you’re visiting Conway. ■

get to know... Rachel Earls Shaw, Director of Destination Marketing, Conway CVB For the past three years, Rachel has made it her goal to ensure every visitor to Conway has the best experience possible. (501) 932-5409 rachel@conwayarkansas.org www.conwayark.com

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Discover Your Next Big Idea In Small Town America—Mt. Sterling, KY Golf the number one public golf course in Kentucky by Golf Digest at your next meeting destination. Old Silo Golf Course and Restaurant is just one of the many attractions in Mt. Sterling, KY. Mt. Sterling is just minutes east of Lexington with modern meeting facilities that can host 1,000 with theater style seating, full video/audio equipment and many catering options. Enjoy a professional atmosphere in a beautiful small town with friendly service. Visitors will enjoy touring the Ruth Hunt Candy Factory and The Gateway Regional Art Center as well as the many restaurants and shopping. ■

get to know... Tracy Pearce, Director of Tourism, Mt. Sterling/Montgomery County Tourist & Convention Commission Tracy has been the Tourism Director since 2009 & loves welcoming guests to her beautiful town. Let her help you plan your next function in a convenient location in the heart of Kentucky. (866) 415-7439 mtourism@mis.net www.mtsterlingtourism.com

Explore Where Texas Legends Were Made! In Brenham and Washington County you will find everything from casual to ultra-high end for both accommodations and meeting venues. Historic settings, lush gardens, wineries and charming villages provide interest beyond your meeting schedule. Enjoy shopping, dining and relaxing in historic Downtown Brenham while a visit to “the little creamery,” Blue Bell, is also a must-do. Relaxation and a slower pace abound in this historic Central Texas location. Come see us—we love company! ■

get to know... Judy Hyman, Visitor Center & Group Contact Manager, Brenham/Washington County CVB Judy has lived in Washington County for 25 years. She joined the CVB in 2012 as Group Marketing Coordinator then became Visitor Center Manager in 2013. (979) 836-3696 or (888) BRENHAM (273-6426) judy@brenhamtexas.com www.visitbrenhamtexas.com

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McAllen Convention Center: A Premier Gathering Place rooms are also available for smaller events.

Welcoming local, state, national and interna-

than 400,000 attendees annually. The multi-

tional visitors for the last seven years, the

purpose event center features a 60,000-square-

Centerplate, the McAllen Convention

McAllen Convention Center specializes in

foot column-free exhibit hall capable of stag-

Center’s exclusive in-house caterer, offers

making every event memorable for its guests.

ing events ranging from concerts, conventions

superior food experiences for the event cen-

and expos to social events. A grand ballroom,

ter’s attendees. As one of the largest hospitality

two boardrooms and up to 16 breakout

companies in the world, the catering company

Located in deep South Texas, this 18.5-acre complex hosts more than 500 events and more

provides both extensive management experience as well as culinary talent. Come visit the McAllen Convention Center and let the staff assist you with your next event. The event center’s team gives you the best value for your budget and adds special touches to give your event a signature style. ■

get to know... Laurie A. Pulido, Sales Coordinator, McAllen Convention Center A five year veteran of the McAllen Convention Center staff, Laurie specializes in creating memorable experiences by providing seamless customer service and ensuring every detail is perfectly executed. (956) 681-3894 lapulido@mcallen.net www.mcallenconvention center.net

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See Ad On Page 76

Savannah Meetings Boost Attendance Meet in Savannah for a one-of-a-kind experience that mixes historic architecture, cultural attractions, coastal cuisine and scenic beauty with successful conventions, meetings and special events. Savannah’s eclectic sophistication will enthrall your attendees, while 22 parklike, moss-draped squares placed throughout historic downtown will make them feel relaxed and focused. Elegant accommodations within blocks of abundant meeting venues make gatherings in Savannah a step above the rest. Select Savannah as your host city and your event attendance is sure to increase. The Savannah International Trade & Convention Center, situated on the Savannah River, offers a modern, spacious venue for your next meeting, convention or special event. With a total of 330,000 square feet, the facility offers 100,000 square feet of prime exhibit space and 50,000 square feet of flexible space. Up to 21 breakout rooms are in the space, including 13 meeting rooms, four executive board rooms, a 25,000-square-foot grand ballroom and a state-of-the-art auditorium. A 45 by 30 foot hanger door allows large equipment and aviation-oriented trade shows to be displayed in the center’s exhibit hall. Additional meeting facilities located throughout downtown Savannah include the Coastal Georgia Center and the Savannah Civic Center. There are a variety of convention hotels throughout Savannah, including The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa (403 rooms), Savannah Marriott Riverfront (383 rooms), Hyatt Regency Savannah (347 rooms) and the Hilton Savannah Desoto (246 rooms). Nearly 5,000 rooms are available at various hotels in the Historic District and more than 15,000 total hotel rooms in the greater Savannah area. All hotels and meeting spaces in the Historic District are located within walking distance to numerous high-style boutiques, galleries, restaurants and more. Located just 20 minutes from downtown, the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport is one of the busiest in the Southeast. With 35 daily non-stop flights via American, Delta, Jet Blue, United and US Airways from Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Houston, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington D.C., it’s easier to get here than ever before. The low-cost CAT shuttle and w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

DOT shuttle are available for quicker travel, including a direct route from the airport to downtown. Once you’re here, there are several ways to get around, with many of our visitors preferring to explore pedestrianfriendly Savannah by foot. Savannah International Trade & Convention Center With more than 45 cultural attractions, handle the details. To plan your meeting in Savannah draws meeting attendees craving Savannah today, contact Jeff Hewitt at (912) a diverse experience. Trolley, Segway and 644-6416 or at jhewitt@visitsavannah.com. ■ walking tours covering history, hauntings, architecture and food will fill down time with excitement and entertainment. Meetget to know... ing attendees also are sure to enjoy Jeff Hewitt, Savannah’s palate-pleasing, coastal Vice President of cuisine and farm-to-table fare served at Business Development, restaurants throughout the city. Visit Savannah As your host city, we will work Jeff holds more than 25 years of hospitality experience with closely with Savannah’s hospitality prior DMO senior management industry and business community to positions at Visit Charlotte and meet and exceed your requirements. Tampa Bay & Company. Our Southern hospitality combined with the array of services found in Savannah (912) 644-6416 will help you create an expertly-executed jhewitt@visitsavannah.com event for any size group. We look forward www.visitsavannah.com to welcoming you! Whatever your needs, Savannah can J U L Y 2 0 1 4 ⎜ ConventionSouth ⎜

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Albany, Georgia: Your Ticket To A Successful Meeting Conveniently located off I-75 and I-10, easily accessed Albany has 26 hotels, many with flexible meeting space, plus four conference centers for groups from 10 to 2,500. Additionally, Albany has small meeting space and unique reception and dining venues at its major attractions—Albany Museum of Art, Flint

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RiverQuarium, Albany Civil Rights Institute and Chehaw—and at historic sites, including Thronateeska Heritage Plaza and The Carnegie Library. Equipped venues include Darton College and Albany State University, the American Legion and Knights of Columbus halls. For down time, climate-mild Albany has plenty for groups of all interests: museums, zoo, parks, aquarium, golf courses, riverfront walking/ jogging trails, an array of restaurants, shopping and new tours, “On Location,” Sherwood Pictures’ Movie Set Tour and “African American Heritage Tours.” To help you plan your event, Albany Convention & Visitors Bureau staff will assist with bids for accommodations, meeting and gathering space, and will make certain you

have the appropriate contacts to take care of all your needs. They will assist with planning specialty tours for your groups and arrange for welcome bags and greeting. ■

get to know... Rashelle Beasley, Director, Albany CVB Rashelle Beasley is a native of the Albany Area. She joined the CVB in 2008, as Welcome Center Manager, and was promoted to director in 2012.

(229) 317-4760 or (866) 750-0840 rbeasley@albanyga.com www.visitalbanyga.com

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Go Grand For Meetings In Historic Point Clear, Alabama Since 1847, the Grand Hotel Marriott Resort,

America named the Grand Hotel “Best Historic

date 1,000 for meetings and 1,400 for receptions.

Golf Club & Spa has maintained a gracious

Hotel” in the country in 2013. The Grand Hotel

Updated meeting spaces, restaurants, lounges,

tradition of Southern hospitality on Mobile

offers 23 meeting rooms with 37,000 square feet

golf courses, tennis courts and pools to a Euro-

Bay. Exceptional service and world-class

of meeting space. The 9,750-square-foot Grand

pean-style spa make the Grand Hotel the ideal

amenities create the perfect recipe for great

Ballroom with beachfront patio can accommo-

choice for warm weather meetings. ■

meetings at the historic Grand Hotel. The resort has 405 guests rooms and ConventionSouth named it “South’s Top Business Class Meeting Resort” in 2014. Travel + Leisure magazine honored The Grand as one of the Top 500 Hotels in the World for 2013. Conde Nast Traveler recently ranked The Grand and its spa as one of the best resorts and spas in the country. Love historic hotels? Historic Hotels of

get to know... Kevin Hellmich, Director of Sales & Marketing, Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa The Grand Hotel has hosted great meetings for more than 160 years. Kevin Hellmich and our award-winning team are ready to take care of your group. Ask about value dates. (251) 928-9201 sales@marriottgrand.com www.marriottgrand.com

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Dalton: Take A Closer Look

In the center of the South is Dalton, Georgia, located 27 miles south of Chattanooga, and 90 miles north of Atlanta. Dalton is situated on Interstate 75 at exit 333 with extensive services within ½ mile of the exit. This includes over 1000 hotel rooms, 30 restaurants, and 143,000 square feet of meeting space at the Northwest Georgia Trade and Convention Center. The NWGTCC includes an indoor arena measuring 40,000 square feet. This arena is the home of Dalton State basketball team as well as the Georgia Rampage indoor profes-

sional arena football team. The arena has also hosted concerts, rodeos, circus, trade shows

Inn & Suites and Courtyard by Marriott.

of the best pricing in the southeast makes

and soccer.

Limited service hotels include major brands

choosing Dalton an easy decision.

Other meeting space includes a 10,000

such as Hampton, Comfort Inn & Suites,

While in Dalton you can venture into

square foot ballroom and 10 breakout rooms.

Country Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Express,

Historic Downtown where you will find

The common area provides additional space

and La Quinta to name a few.

interesting shops, restaurants, and historic

for exhibiting as much as forty 8x10 booths.

Restaurants include fast food such as

buildings. For those interested in Civil War

A lecture hall with over 200 seats is also part

McDonalds and Chic-fil-A to Panda Express.

History, Dalton was a significant sight during

of the mix.

Full service restaurants include Applebee’s,

the Civil War and particularly during the

O’Charley’s, Longhorn, and several others.

Great Locomotive Chase and the start of the

The NWGTCC in house catering team will provide delicious and value priced meals and

Dalton is known as the Carpet Capital but

Atlanta Campaign.

breaks for your group functions. Events in

is emerging as a quality meeting destination.

the arena will enjoy two concession stands to

Other attributes include some of the best

carpet as developed from the tufting industry.

provide refreshments for attendees.

pricing for goods and services in the nation.*

Learn more of this interesting industry and an

The convenient location combined with some

industry that is part of your everyday life. ■

Hotels include full service such as Holiday

Dalton is also home to the birthplace of

get to know... Patricia Daniels, Meeting Sales Manager, Dalton CVB Daniels joined the tourism and hospitality industry in April of 2013 and has 15 years sales and marketing experience. She proudly called Dalton her home for 30 years. (706) 529-5978 patricia@daltontrade center.com www.daltontrade center.com

As reported by Edge Magazine/September 2013 “Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show that average prices paid by consumers for the mix of goods and services consumed in the area are about 15.3% below the national average.”

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Amarillo—For The West Of Your Life

Amarillo is the stop for the West of your life. Enjoy meetings that are second to none, see attractions that give you a true sense of your Western heritage, and find activities that view the horizons of history.

Drive or Fly, It’s Easy To Do Driving takes you across the same expanses as the Conestoga wagon-borne pioneers of the late 1800s. Flying brings you to one of the nation’s newest airport passenger terminals at Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport. Either way, it’s not too long until you’re in Amarillo. Bed down with a wide range of options, from high-end business class to budget accommodations, from historic cabins to quaint B & Bs, all featuring Amarillo’s emphasis on Prime Service. Move to meetings at the convenient Amarillo Civic Center Complex. It has 410,000 square feet divided into two large exhibit halls, two performance venues, banquet and breakout rooms and a 4,800-seat arena. Dining continues the Western experience. Breakfast at Youngblood’s Stockyard Café, an authentic experience shared by cowboys and cattlemen for years. It’s an experience you may remember from the Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food show. The Big Texan Steak Ranch is among a hand full of well-known steak houses that prepare steaks that make cowboys proud. Of course, the Big Texan is home to the 72 oz steak challenge, eat the entire steak dinner in an hour and it is free. And other local restaurants give visitors an idea of how the Amarillo experience is changing in the 21st century. Afterwards, your family will be ready to hit the trail for a true taste of Amarillo. Palo Duro Focus Go outdoors at Palo Duro Canyon State Park with nearly 30,000 acres of activity. Start with camping and hiking, including the new Rock Garden Trail from the floor to the rim of the canyon. And move into the 21st century with mountain biking and zip lining. The state park may be the best mountain bike location in the

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state and zip lining, which started in 2013 at Palo Duro Adventure Park, just outside the main state park entrance. During the summer, plan an evening in the state park with dinner and the award-winning outdoor musical drama, TEXAS. Nearly 4 million people have seen this professional show about the struggles of the Texas Panhandle pioneers, farmers and ranchers, in the late 1800s. Sit Tall In The Saddle Continue the Western experience at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, a world-class museum about the horse that tamed the West. Cover the entire Texas Panhandle (nearly 30,000 square miles) with a single visit to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. It is the state’s largest history museum; it’s been described as The Smithsonian with a Texas accent. Keep the thrills coming at Wonderland Amusement Park, one of Texas’ very best amusement parks. Family owned for its entire 62-year history, Wonderland has more than 50 rides and attractions, including one of the world’s best double-loop roller coasters, the Texas Tornado. See the horizons with a new perspective at Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West, a horse-

back riding provider that has access to private areas of Palo Duro Canyon not seen by many other people. And the kicks keep coming along Historic Route 66. Mosey Back “Amarillo’s value makes it a prime destination for meetings and families,” Eric Miller, Director of Communications at the Amarillo Convention & Visitor Council, says. So come to Amarillo and you won’t be steered wrong! Then make plans to come back. There is much more West to your life. ■

get to know... Eric Miller, Director of Communications, Amarillo Convention & Visitor Council Eric has been the Amarillo CVC’s Communications Director for almost 17 years. From the local news to Oprah, being the community’s spokesperson is a daunting task, but it’s one he relishes. (800) 692-1338 eric@visitamarillotx.com www.visitamarillotx.com

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Discover Louisiana’s Bayou Country Travel less than an hour southwest of New Orleans and you’ll enter Louisiana’s Bayou Country—Houma. Just one visit and you will discover why the early settlers to this area named the parish Terrebonne, or “good earth.” Throughout the city and its surround-

ing communities, visitors will discover the many good things we’ve become known for—good people, good food and good times. Houma can accommodate meetings and events of any size. The Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center boasts 100,000 square feet of

space with 37,000 square feet of open floor space and a 10,000-square-foot meeting wing with dividable rooms. Smaller groups will also find suitable meeting space at some of Houma’s moderately priced hotel properties. In addition to state-of-the-art meeting facilities, Houma also offers a unique cultural experience. Experience once-in-alifetime attractions and delicious dining options while you take advantage of our affordable lodging. Come on down and experience “Cajunicity”—the joie de vivre, or love for life that’s ingrained into every aspect of our culture. Visit www.houmatravel.com for a free adventure guide and a full list of services available to incoming groups. ■

get to know... Angela Morehead, Convention & Event Sales Manager, Houma-Area CVB Angela brings high energy & commitment to meeting her clients’ needs. She has dedicated over 15 years to the hospitality industry & loves promoting Houma to groups of all sizes. (985) 868-2732 or (800) 688-2732 angela.morehead@ houmatravel.com www.houmatravel.com

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Find Your Perfect Beach In South Walton, Florida

The 26 miles of sugar-white sand beaches and diverse accommodations along the coast of South Walton have beckoned visitors for generations, offering an upscale yet relaxing place to unwind. Increasingly, the same unique atmosphere and amenities that vacationers have found along this strand of 16 beach neighborhoods are being discovered by meeting planners, who find that South Walton offers the perfect beach atmosphere for work, rejuvenation, and the creation of lasting memories. While summer is the perfect time for leisure travelers to hit the beaches, meeting planners find that fall and winter are the ideal seasons in which to host their meeting or event in South Walton. South Walton offers versatile facilities and comprehensive meetings services and has the ability to accommodate groups of various sizes. The destination also has a wide breadth of accommodations—from charming beachside cottages for small corporate retreats to full-service resorts with golf, shopping, dining, and more—that invite attendees to relax and rejuvenate after their meetings. Beyond the beautiful beaches, South Walton offers a myriad of activities and attractions for every visitor’s interests. Enjoy shopping at local boutiques and art galleries, or head to Silver Sands Premium Outlets. Discover one of our five state parks by land or water. Indulge in

our renowned Gulf to Table culinary scene in an award-winning restaurant. Relax at one of our upscale spas. There are also a myriad of cultural activities for enhancing a meeting experience on any budget. A meeting or an incentive group can plan their trip to South Walton around outstanding festivals such as South Walton Fashion Week, 30A Songwriters Festival, Digital Graffiti, Mountain Film Festival and South

Walton Beaches Wine & Food Festival just to name a few. As a winner of the Convention South Readers’ Choice Award for a third year in a row, it’s clear South Walton has that special something meeting planners want. The destination’s distinguished meeting facilities, award-winning accommodations, gourmet dining, and creative teambuilding activities offer groups memorable and productive meetings. Conveniently located directly between ECP and VPS airports, South Walton operates on Central Time, making it the perfect meeting destination in Northwest Florida. ■

get to know... Pamela Watkins, Director of Sales, Visit South Walton Pamela has been with Visit South Walton since 1997 and has promoted tourism in South Walton for over 30 years. The many affiliations and strong tourism partnerships created over the years are the most rewarding component in making South Walton a top meeting destination. (800) 822-6877 meetings@visitsouthwalton.com www.visitsouthwalton.com

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Rocket City Offers Attendees High-Tech Cool, Gorgeous Views Situated in the breathtaking Tennessee Valley, Huntsville, Alabama, often referred to as the Rocket City, for its crucial role in America’s space exploration program, offers a meeting experience like no other destination. Home to the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Earth’s largest space museum, and home to the second largest research park in the nation, your attendees will find high-tech cool mixed with southern hospitality and captivating valley views. New hotels, hotel renovations and other developments including a multimilliondollar makeover to the Von Braun Center and revitalization of downtown Huntsville now offer visitors far more options. Treat yourself to a stay at a luxury property, including the first Westin in the state. With over 6,800 hotel rooms countywide, we have the options to fit any taste and budget.

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With over 170,000 square feet flexible meeting space, the Von Braun Center accommodates meetings of various sizes and is located in the midst of beautiful Big Spring International Park, which happens to be just a 15 minute drive from Huntsville International Airport. Let’s face it. With all the productivity that comes with meetings, downtime for conference attendees is a must. After your sessions are over, visit the nation’s largest open-air butterfly house at the Huntsville Botanical Garden, marvel at those breathtaking valley views for yourself at Huntsville’s first museum, Burritt on the Mountain or check out the nationally accredited Huntsville Museum of Art. By conference end, your attendees will thank you for showing them Huntsville,

Alabama. Give us a call, and let’s make the Rocket City your next stop! ■

get to know... Bob Rogers, VP of Conventions, Huntsville/Madison County CVB With 30+ years in the industry, VP of Conventions Bob Rogers stands ready to assist you with all your planning needs. Bob knows all the ins and outs of pulling off a seamless meeting in the Rocket City…and making it one for the record books. (256) 551-2230 brogers@huntsville.org www.huntsville.org

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Meet In Meridian As you plan your event, you’ll discover a community eager to welcome you, entertain you, and allow you to escape into its beauty and heritage for the short time you’re here. Meridian’s smalltown atmosphere complements a passion for art crawls, historic places, and authentically local entertainment. Meanwhile, in the midst of such old-fashioned hospitality are cutting-edge meeting venues. An event planner’s dream, the MSU Riley Center is the perfect marriage of history and technology. The restored opera house offers meeting facilities that range from a 5,000square-foot exhibit hall to a 2,500-square-foot studio space to numerous smaller meeting rooms. The Center’s theater provides a dramatic one-of-a-kind space to host general sessions, award ceremonies, and private entertainment performances. Alongside timeless architecture are state-of-the-art capabilities for any event you

might host. The conference center’s recent audio/visual upgrade brings the latest technology to the meetings industry. Completed in June, the upgrade includes 90-inch HD LCD flat-screen televisions in all breakout rooms. Meeting planners should note that the Center continues to include the use of flat screens in the meeting room

rental costs. The Center also added an upgraded internet network as well as simultaneous presentation and session recording capabilities. Among all the places you might select for your event, not many are as convenient as Meridian, located at the intersection of interstates 20 and 59 in east central Mississippi. ■

get to know... Steve Martin, Assistant Director, Lauderdale County Tourism A 28-year veteran of the hospitality industry, Steve has been with the Lauderdale County Tourism office since 2009.

(888) 868-7720 or (601) 482-8001 smartin@lauderdalecounty.org www.visitmeridian.com

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Macon, Georgia: Easy To Locate & An Affordable Option Known for its central location as the “Heart of Georgia,” Macon is easy to locate and an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on meeting planning needs. Macon is located 80 miles south of Atlanta, and offers traditional meeting facilities options and unique off-site venues for multiple sized meetings. Choose any one of the many

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venues offered in Macon, or mix and match your offer. Whether the mood strikes for BBQ or spaces to cater to your meeting needs. upscale fine dining, Macon has you covered. It is hard to find another city comparable to Let our staff help make your meeting a Macon’s attractions, festivals, shopping, history success! Call us first to help you find facilities, and culture. Macon is also home to some of the accommodations and create itineraries for your most legendary music artists in history. No meeting. You’ll find out why Macon adds up to meeting in Macon would be complete without a great meeting destination! ■ experiencing the “Song and Soul of the South.” Visitors get to know... can wander down Cherry Kimberly Payne-Ward, Street to enjoy live music Business Development Manager, from today’s rising stars Macon-Bibb County CVB or take a seat for concert Kimberly has more than 15 years of performances at one of experience in sales and specializes in sports, medical and association markets. our local theatres. Macon has unique restaurants sure to please any (478) 743-1074, ext.111 or (800) 768-3401 palette. We are known for our kpayne-ward@visitmacon.org soul food, but that’s not all the www.visitmacon.org city’s restaurants have to

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Winston-Salem Offers A Welcomed Southern Wake-Up Call Winston-Salem is a sophisticated meeting destination conveniently and strategically located at the epicenter of North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad region. Meeting professionals and delegates alike consistently give WinstonSalem high marks as a memorable meeting destination that successfully yet subtly blends its rich Colonial roots and dedication to the arts with a vibrant, southern city vibe. With 48 hotels and bed and breakfast inns and a total of 4,800 rooms, Winston-Salem has something for everyone. Discover why Winston-Salem is your Southern wake-up call. Winston-Salem’s Convention Center offers approximately 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting and convention space and is located in the heart of our revitalized and bustling downtown. Two enclosed skyways connect the Convention Center to the Twin City Quarter which is comprised of the 146-room Embassy Suites and the 315-room Downtown Marriott. Winston-Salem’s downtown also offers meeting planners and convention delegates a variety of charming, walkable dining options. Like bookends, the Downtown Arts District to the east offers a more eclectic, avant-garde flavor while the historic West End neighborhood, abundant with Victorian homes sporting charming front porches, gives patrons a retrospective glance back to Winston-Salem’s opulent early 1900’s heydays. Winston-Salem offers a diverse menu of off-site venues perfect for meeting professionals seeking alternative and innovative sites for workshops, elegant receptions and off-site team-building sessions. Conveniently located just minutes from Winston-Salem’s Twin City Quarter and the Benton Convention Center, is the $26-million Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts. The MRCA is an impressive, new addition to the historic heart of downtown Winston-Salem and offers planners yet another attractive, flexible function space. The Millennium Center, located a block from the convention center offers 50,000 square feet of meeting space in a historic setting. Just five minutes from downtown is Graylyn International Conference Center, once the second largest home in North Carolina, today offers 86 sleeping rooms and approximately 46,000 square feet of meeting space w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

on the 55-acre property. Opening in 2015, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants will open their first North Carolina property, a 211 room four-star boutique hotel in the iconic R.J. Reynolds building in downtown Winston-Salem. With attractive seasonal weather, WinstonSalem also offers the option of incredible outside function spaces including the new BB&T Ballpark complete with its panoramic view of Winston-Salem’s pristine skyline. On the other side of the spectrum, meeting professionals can host a dinner on the historic setting of an 18th century Moravian Village or on the pristine lawn a historic early 20th century mansion. The Visit Winston-Salem Convention Sales and Services staff is poised and ready to assist planners offering a menu of services to meeting planners to ensure that their stay in Winston-Salem is a productive, positive and seamless experience. Convention Services provide assistance with pre-registration and payment processing with the Visit Winston-Salem’s promise that clients and customers will receive timely registration updates, confirmation delivery and a comprehensive delegate database. Meeting planners may also secure Visit Winston-Salem as its official housing bureau when booking delegates in multiple hotels. Staff works with meeting planners to create a customized registration form which delegates can complete and submit by either fax, mail or on-line, allowing the housing coordination process to run efficiently and effectively. This

service provides room-block monitoring, reservation management and real-time reports. Visit Winston-Salem happily provides knowledgeable staff to assist in on-site registration including producing customizable name badges. Fully-staffed Information/Welcome desks and assistance with step-on guide and spouse program itinerary development is just an e-mail or phone call away. Visit Winston-Salem also provides a wide selection of complimentary destination information including brochures from local attractions, the Annual Visit Winston-Salem Visitor Guide, Wine and Dine Guides and area maps. Contact Visit Winston-Salem Convention Services staff at: servicesdept@visitwinston salem.com to discuss your specific requests and details. ■

get to know... Christian Schroeder, Director of Sales & Services, Visit Winston-Salem Christian joined Visit Winston-Salem in 2010. Previously, he spent over eight years in hotel operations & sales in Myrtle Beach and is a board member for MPI-Carolinas Chapter. (336) 728-4218 or (866) 728-4200 christian@visitwinstonsalem.com www.visitwinstonsalem.com

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James H. Rainwater Conference Center— New Look Coupled With Traditional Southern Hospitality The James H. Rainwater Conference Center is located in the heart of Valdosta Georgia—positioned conveniently between city exits 16 and 18 from I-75. The 45,000-square-foot complex offers great space, flexible sets and a beautiful outdoor venue overlooking the lake. Our largest banquet space seats 650 people. We also have 11 breakout rooms sure to make your small meeting a rousing success. Come see what intimate planning and being the big fish in the small pond is all about! Coming in late 2014! By year’s end, the entire lobby and pre-function spaces of the Conference Center will get new carpet, updated wall finishes and the final touch will be bring-

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ing in all new furniture so conference attendees can network comfortably when not directly engaged in meetings. The new flooring will also be extended into our two Executive Board Rooms (the largest of which overlooks the cypress lake behind the facility and received a “Best Boardroom in the South” designation). You can also take advantage of one of the “Best Boardrooms in the South”! Parking is on-site and complimentary with your booking. Surrounding the conference center are numerous flag hotels, an abundance of dining options, and endless shopping opportunities. We truly offer it all! ■

get to know... Sandra Roose, Director of Sales, James H. Rainwater Conference Center Sandra’s career in hospitality spans resorts, convention hotels, golf & country clubs from Alabama, Florida Coast to Georgia. She enjoys event planning & the creative side of marketing great destinations. (229) 219-4405 sroose@valdostatourism.com www.rainwaterconference center.com

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Ford Park…We Mean Business! With 221 acres, 5 venues and a proven 11-year track record, Ford Park offers maximum flexibility. Conveniently located on Interstate 10 in Beaumont, Texas. SMALL or EXTRAVAGANT Ford Exhibit Hall has over 48,000 square feet and 8,000 square feet of meeting space. The

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11,000-square-foot lobby of the E-Hall is an additional resource as an adjunct to an E-Hall event or as a venue of its own. The 34,000 square-foot Ford Arena can be combined with the e-hall for a total of 93,000 square feet of contiguous space.

get to know... Ford Park: Linda Waggoner, Director of Marketing & Sales (409) 951-5413 or (877) 266-6939 lwaggoner@fordpark.com

OUTDOOR Ford Park Midway/Ag Barns Nine acres of paved midway provides plenty of room for festivals and fairs. Covered structures in Ford Midway include a 45,000-square-foot practice arena and a 25,000 square-foot barn, each with restrooms, office space and a dedicated parking. Ford Pavilion is a contained area with 6,300 covered seating and 8,000 lawn seating.

fields, with one centralized gate, concessions, restrooms, and 1,000 on-site parking spaces.

SPORTS Ford Fields is a complex comprised of 12 championship-caliber fastpitch softball/youth baseball

SAVOR THE FLAVOR In-house catering is professionally provided by SAVOR... catering by SMG. ■

Charlie Gibbs, Convention Sales (409) 782-0322 charliegibbs@ sbcglobal.net www.fordpark.com

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Exceeding Expectations…It’s The Best View The Southwest Virginia views are gorgeous any time of year and your meeting or event can enjoy a room with a view at the Wytheville Meeting Center. Comfortable, sophisticated, and technology-friendly describes Southwest Virginia’s newest conference facility. Exceeding expectations

is our motto through our high level of customer service. From the Evansham Ballroom seating 1,200 theater style or 500 for banquets to several smaller meeting rooms, the Wytheville Meeting Center is a wonderful location for regional, state, or multi-state conferences and events. A variety

of excellent caterers are available to handle your dining needs and new adjacent hotel properties complete this I-77 & 81 location. Wytheville, Virginia has a variety of interesting things for your meeting attendees to see and do. From an abundance of outdoor recreation to a variety of music and arts venues, there are many reasons for your attendees to continue their Wytheville experience once the meeting is over. ■

contact: Wytheville CVB (866) 694-8287 meetings@wytheville.org www.wythevillemeeting center.com www.visitwytheville.com

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Shreveport-Bossier Offers Meeting Planners Lagniappe Promotion The Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau, Shreveport Convention Center and Hilton Shreveport are launching the “Seize the Lagniappe” offer to give meeting planners a little something extra when they book in Shreveport-Bossier, Louisiana. “This is an excellent time for meeting planners to take advantage of all the wonderful and exciting things Shreveport-Bossier has to offer,” said Dianna Douglas, regional sales manager for the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau. “We offer this amazing deal, because we want our planners to always get more when they book with us.” Lagniappe, a frequently used Southern term, means a little something extra, which

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includes flexible meeting venues, affordable hotel accommodations, true hospitality, and delicious cuisine. The promotional deal offers convention planners a free board meeting for up to 20 people complete with a complimentary Continental breakfast and up to three complimentary hotel rooms for two nights at the Hilton Shreveport. Meeting planners will also receive free Wi-Fi for their convention delegates and enjoy 5X Hilton Honors points on actualized rooms with a minimum of 200 room nights. To make things even better, meeting planners will receive up to 100,000 Hilton Honors bonus points awarded at contract signing. The contract must be secured before

December 31, 2014, but can be used for future meetings through 2017. ■

get to know... Dianna Douglas, Regional Sales Manager, Shreveport-Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau Dianna has been in convention sales for two decades, working with big & small clients, & treating each like they are the most important. (800) 551-8682, ext. 108 ddouglas@sbctb.org www.shreveportbossier.org/meetings

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Easy, Breezy Coastal Virginia Meetings In Hampton Hampton, Virginia has cornered the meetings market when it comes to convenience and accessibility. Geographically centered in picturesque Coastal Virginia, the state-of-the-art Hampton Roads Convention Center positions meeting attendees where opportunity abounds to explore and enjoy. Plus, Hampton is located in the middle of the Mid-Atlantic region and is within easy drive of our nation’s most populous metropolitan areas. Delegates convening in Hampton are greeted by scenic waterfront vistas, exceptional facilities, world class attractions and an eclectic array of shopping and dining, including the Peninsula Town Center just blocks away. There are 2,500 hotel rooms within immediate proximity of the 344,000square-foot Hampton Roads Convention Center. Its 35 flexible meeting spaces under one roof include a 102,000-square-foot

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exhibit hall and a grand ballroom seating 2,000, plus dramatic features like a wall of water descending from second to first floor and an outdoor terrace overlooking the landscaped grounds. A covered walkway connects the center to a headquarters-quality Embassy Suites Hotel and the iconic 84,000square-foot Hampton Coliseum arena shares the campus. Hampton is home to other unique event venues, like the Virginia Air & Space Center with the Riverside 3D IMAX Theater; Peninsula Town Center with theater, shopping and dining; and cruise vessels that navigate Hampton Roads harbor while providing elegant settings for mixers. You can explore dynamic national treasures like Fort Monroe National Monument, the island garrison Fort Wool and Naval Station Norfolk (the world’s largest), both accessible by harbor tour. The

American Theatre and Hampton University Museum dating to 1868 complete an extraordinary meeting experience. ■

get to know... Sallie Grant-DiVenuti, FCDME, CDME, CMP, CEM, Executive Director, Hampton CVB Sallie has held her position since 2001, played an integral part in the Hampton Roads Convention Center development, providing key insight into the center’s design. (800) 487-8778 or (757) 722-1222 sallie@hamptoncvb.com www.visithampton.com

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Meet, Stay & Play At Summersville Arena & Conference Center The Summersville Arena & Conference Center is the perfect location for conferences, meetings, trade shows, sporting events and banquets. It is centrally located in the beautiful state of West Virginia and surrounded by natural beauty, history, adventure and relaxation. The 24,000 square foot arena is perfect for trade shows, large meetings, conferences and banquets. It is also an excellent option for sporting events, such as wrestling and basketball as well as concerts and dinner theatres. The conference center is 3,715 square feet with many amenities, including AV, Wi-Fi, and other conference supplies. The center is ideal for meetings, banquets, and weddings and has the capability to provide breakout sessions. Catering is available onsite with the award-winning Celtic Cook. Concessions services are also available. Hotels providing close to 600 rooms are in

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very close proximity, some being within walking distance. During down time between meetings, the area offers many activities, including water sports of all kinds on the state’s largest lake, Summersville Lake. There is also Civil War History, a lighthouse overlooking the lake, many hiking and biking trails, and a local winery offering tours and tastings. Save time to do some shopping for souvenirs and unique gifts. Each event is customized to meet your needs. Currently, the Summersville Arena & Conference Center is offering a 10% discount off the rental fee if booked by January 1, 2015. Call today to book your event at (304) 872-3722. Visit our website at www.summersvillearena.com or find us on facebook at www.facebook.com/ summersvillearenaandconferencecenter.

Let the friendly staff at the Summersville Arena & Conference Center make your event stress free and memorable. ■

get to know... Marianne Taylor, Executive Director, Summersville Arena & Conference Center Marianne has served as Executive Director of the Summersville CVB for three years and enjoys working to help make every event and meeting memorable and stress free. (304) 872-3722 marianne@summers villecvb.com www.summersville arena.com

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Rome Offers Big City Amenities With Small-Town Ambiance, Extending Unrivaled Southern Hospitality To Meeting Groups Considerably smaller than larger neighbors that outline the “ABC triangle”—Atlanta, Birmingham and Chattanooga—Rome’s central location in the Southeast and in Northwest Georgia, its small-town feel and smalltown price tag, and value-added amenities and services make it perfect for meeting planners targeting smaller markets. Rome is often praised by delegates, leisure travelers and even resident Romans for its southern hospitality and serene location in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. While easily accessible from Interstate 75, Rome has retained the charm of its Victorian downtown area and signature attractions, including Berry College, Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum, historic Myrtle Hill Cemetery, Rome Braves Baseball and more. The Forum conference center’s central location in Downtown Rome lends itself as the ideal site for any group from 4 to 4,000. Adjacent to the Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham, the Days Inn, and the new 104-room Courtyard by Marriott (opening Spring 2015), the 83,000 square-foot facility boasts a large arena, several ballrooms, break-out spaces and reception areas, playing host to conventions, sporting events, concerts, exhibitions and more throughout the year. Adjacent to a new parking deck and Rome’s Town Green urban riverfront project, the convention center provides modern conveniences within a very historic Downtown Rome. Upon the completion of Rome’s first Marriott property next year, a combined total of over 270 rooms will be available within a short walking distance of The Forum. Meetings in Rome can be as small as a board retreat or as large as an annual conference. Meet in the downtown area where delegates can stay close by and have access to one-of-a-kind local restaurants, entertainment and shopping. Meet in a more pastoral setting at beautiful Berry College’s Krannert Center ballrooms. Or, choose from our list of other venue options tailored to your group. Rome has an impressive array of different meeting spaces, from the rustic to

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Following successful revitalization efforts in decades past, historic Downtown Rome has again become the center of culture and activity in Northwest Georgia. The Forum conference center is seen to the left along the Oostanaula River.

the more formal—from the large-scale to the more intimate. To help meeting planners navigate through the influx of information available in a variety of different locations, the Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau recently released an all-new Facility Guide, including information on The Forum and over 60 other rentable venues in Georgia’s Rome. The ease and flexibility in organizing meetings, securing meeting spaces and creating delegate itineraries has allowed Rome to rise above similarly-sized communities as a leader in small market meetings. Those considering comparable towns are always impressed with Rome’s charming setting in Georgia’s Historic High Country and often choose the community because of the helpful service and expertise that is encountered working alongside the Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau. The experienced staff in Georgia’s Rome works to recruit meeting, convention, and reunion groups, tournaments, expos and more. Their knowledge of the area and access to important resources for planners makes

them the one-stop-shop for all-things-Rome. When seeking a location for your next event, consider choosing where the rivers meet and the mountains begin. You don’t have to leave the country to meet in Rome. For more information on meetings and conventions in Rome, including a free digital download of the all-new Georgia’s Rome Facility Guide, visit www.MeetInRome.org. ■

get to know... Debbie Galloway, Sales Coordinator, Greater Rome CVB Debbie is a lifelong Roman and enjoys working with meeting planners interested in coming to Georgia’s Rome. Her favorite thing about the community is the warm welcome that always awaits visitors to her Northwest Georgia hometown. (706) 295-5576 debbie@romegeorgia.org www.romegeorgia.org

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Explore Victoria, Texas—Something Old, Something New, Something Fun To Do! Located between Houston & Corpus Christi and only two hours from San Antonio and Austin, Victoria is the perfect small meetings destination. We offer the beauty and rich history of one of the oldest Texas cities along with new hotels and meeting space. Since mid-2012, seven new hotels have added almost 600 guest rooms to Victoria’s inventory, bringing the city to a total of 26 hotels and almost 1,900 guest rooms. Of the new properties, the Hilton Garden Inn offers 118 guest rooms and 4,000 square feet of meeting space. The new Homewood Suites Hilton and the new Courtyard Marriott both offer about 109 guest rooms and 1,200-1,400 square feet of meeting space as well. The new 20,000 square-foot Emerging Technology Conference & Education Center is scheduled to open in the summer of 2015 with banquet space for 400 as well as a tiered

history to life with this ancient tool that is tons

advantage of birding at nearby Aransas

classroom and multiple breakout and confer-

of fun as a group activity. Also, its new perma-

National Wildlife Refuge, kayaking the

ence rooms.

nent exhibit, Where Texas History Began, tells

Guadalupe River or salt water fishing in the

the story of 13,000 years of heritage in the

nearby Gulf Coast waters.

Add pizzazz to your next meeting or board

Go to our website at www.VisitVictoria

retreat social with our truly memorable one-of-

Texas Coastal Bend region. A guided driving

a-kind offsite venues and with our fun pre or

tour of Old Victoria, featuring more than 80

Texas.com to learn more about why Victoria,

post-event activities. For example, Schroeder

residential and commercial properties that are

Texas, was chosen as one of the Top 20 Group

Dance Hall, the second oldest dance hall in

listed on the National Register of Historic

Friendly Gems in 2014 by ConventionSouth.

Texas, is available for private parties and the

Places, is a big hit with groups as well.

Or give us a call at (800) 926-5774 to learn

The nearby Presidio La Bahia, a National

more about site visits for qualified meeting

rounded by the beautiful Victoria Educational

Historic Landmark, is considered the world’s

planners. You’ll discover why Victoria is a

Gardens, is a perfect location for a nostalgic

finest example of a Spanish frontier fort. It is

great base camp for Texas Coastal Bend adven-

themed event. Add to the fun by choosing from

the most fought over fort in Texas history, the

ture and a great small meetings location. ■

one of three outstanding golf courses which

site where the first Declaration of Texas Inde-

perfectly complement our year-round shirt

pendence was signed and where the tragic

get to know...

sleeve weather.

Goliad massacre took place. Our Lady of

LaRue Roth, Director, Victoria CVB (361) 485-3116 lroth@victoriatx.org www.visitvictoriatexas.org

WWII Foster Air Field Officers’ Club, sur-

History buffs will love meeting in Victoria.

Loreto Chapel, the oldest building at the fort,

The Museum of the Coastal Bend in Victoria

has been in continuous use since the 1700s and

offers special educational programs and Atlatl

is one of the oldest churches in America.

spear throwing—an opportunity to bring

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Adventurers among your attendees can take

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Feel Good In Small Markets

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The Tremont House, A Wyndham Grand Hotel: Gracious Hospitality In Historic Downtown Galveston The Tremont House, a Wyndham Grand® Hotel, is owned by the Cynthia and George Mitchell family as part of Mitchell Historic Properties. The Tremont House is a non-smoking boutique style hotel located in the heart of Galveston’s historic Strand District. This hotel is the only fullservice hotel located in beautiful downtown Galveston and features 15,776 square feet of meeting space, restaurant, fitness center and two bars for entertainment. The hotel offers eight meeting rooms totaling 15,776 square feet. Space ranges from small board rooms to a 7,946 square foot ballroom. Meeting space features exposed brick and plantation shutters in a beautifully restored 1879 former dry goods establishment. The hotel’s ballroom is located in the historic 1890 Davidson Building. The hotel offers audio visual services

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and transportation and excursion services via its sister property, Hotel Galvez & Spa®. The Tremont House offers 119 rooms all featuring complimentary Wi-Fi and reflect an elegant sophistication with black and white décor and soaring ceilings. The Tremont House is the #1 full-service Galveston hotel on TripAdvisor™ and ranked #1 in customer service by Wyndham guests for Wyndham Grand Hotels. This sophisticated hotel is within walking distance of a variety of shops, museums, galleries, harbor excursions and two live theaters. The Tremont House is home to the Tremont Café, a bistro-style café located on the lobby level of the hotel and the island’s only Rooftop Bar as well as 1888 Toujouse Bar. It is also within walking

distance of various popular restaurants ranging from casual fare to upscale dining. Tremont guests also enjoy signing privileges at Galvez Bar & Grill at Hotel Galvez & Spa. ■

get to know... Patty Rouse, Director of Sales & Marketing, The Tremont House Patty has worked in the hospitality industry in Galveston for more than 25 years including 13 years at The Tremont House. (409) 763-0300 or (800) WYNDHAM prouse@wyndham.com www.wyndhamtremonthouse.com

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Feel Good In Small Markets

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“Meet Kenner” In Jefferson Parish, Louisiana Kenner is home to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, the Pontchartrain Convention and Civic Center, as well as numerous attractions and cultural experiences such as Rivertown historic district, Louisiana seafood and international cuisine, live theatre and close

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proximity to New Orleans. Groups from 10 to 2,000 can be accommodated. The Pontchartrain Center boasts up to 75,000 square feet, and many Kenner hotels average 12,000 to 15,000 square feet of meeting space. Carolyn Barrett, the Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Senior Sales Manager specializing in accommodations and meeting facilities in Kenner, can assist you with your requirements. With over 20 years in the tourism and conference industry, knowledge of the region’s heritage, and culture, Carolyn will work with you on producing a successful and memorable

conference or event. Visit www.experience kenner.com for more information on venues and accommodations. ■

get to know... Carolyn Barrett, CGMP, CHSC, Senior Sales Manager, Kenner Liaison, Jefferson CVB Carolyn is active in the Society of Government Meetings Professionals; a founding member of the Louisiana Chapter, a trustee on the SGMP GILMER Institute of Learning, communications committee member for LSAE. (504) 731-7083 or (877) 572-7474 carolyn@experience jefferson.com www.experiencekenner.com

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Feel Good In Small Markets

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No Limit To The Good Times Lafayette Has Waiting For You Here in Lafayette we know you’re looking for a convention destination that’s anything but conventional. We could tell you about our

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world-class facilities, first-class accommodations, one-of-a kind business and technology centers, but we won’t. We know why Lafayette is on your radar. We do things just a little differently than everyone else. We work hard and play even harder. Helping our partners plan successful meetings and conventions is our job day in and day out. Helping you plan the time of your life once the business is over is our passion. We know Lafayette is more than just a place to host your next meeting or convention; it’s an experience like no other. On any night of the week you can listen to live music and sample some of our unique cuisine while sipping on a Sazerac that will have

your taste buds dancing as much as your feet. But don’t take our word for it. Give one of our team members a call to find out what Lafayette has in store for you or visit at Lafayette.travel. ■

get to know... Karen Primeaux, VP of Convention Sales, Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission Karen has assisted state, regional, national and international meeting planners for the last 10 years to bring events to Lafayette. (337) 232-3737 or (800) 346-1958 karen@lafayettetravel.com www.lafayette.travel

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Feel Good In Small Markets

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Drive Into North Carolina’s Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area The Sandhills area of North Carolina has entertained travelers from all over the world for more than a century. The area is best known for its 40+ championship golf courses, called the Home of American Golf®. But, besides the great golf, you can find historic sites, seasonal gardens, and a wonderful blend of today and yesteryear.

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The villages offer a variety of shopping options - pottery, jewelry, antiques, and art. If a relaxing spa treatment will rejuvenate your spirit, there is a world-class spa waiting for you. Award-winning independently-owned dining establishments are waiting for you to enjoy their distinctive dishes with southern style. Wine shops, coffee shops, gourmet cheese and olive oil shops as well as sweet shops offer goodies to satisfy any culinary desire. When the meeting is over, spend time exploring and learning something new. Visit historic homes, enjoy the Aloha Safari zoo or try a skydiving simulator. So much variety! Other activities include cooking classes, pottery making and guided tours. Whatever ‘un-suits’ you! ■

Main Convention Venue: Pinehurst Resort Total Meeting Space at Venue: ß60,000 sq. ft. Total Number of Meeting Rooms in Venue: 23

get to know... Beverly Stewart, Director of Sales, CVB - Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area Beverly has been in the tourism industry for over 20 years and is active with several meeting planning organizations. (910) 692-3330, ext. 237 bstewart@homeofgolf.com www.homeofgolf.com

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Feel Good In Small Markets

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Visit Lubbock, This Is West Texas From five award-winning wineries to live music rocking out almost every night, there’s something for everyone in Lubbock. Whether you wish to enjoy a show at the famed Cactus Theater or treat your kids to the excitement of a hands-on, interactive museum or a movie under

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the stars, Lubbock has it all. A vibrant history can be discovered at the National Ranching Heritage Center, where 48 authentic structures from ranching days dating back to the 1700s have been restored, or at the American Wind Power Center, which houses the largest collection of windmills in the world. Enjoy live music rocking out almost every night, and journey through the life and musical career of Lubbock’s son, Buddy Holly, at the Buddy Holly Center. Take in an eclectic art scene during Lubbock’s famous First Friday Art Trail and savor renowned wines from area-grown grapes. Bring your family

or friends to Lubbock…this is West Texas! Connect with us at visitlubbock.org for upto-date information about events, attractions, lodging and dining options. ■

get to know... Amy Zientek, Director of Sales, Visit Lubbock Amy has worked at Visit Lubbock since 2001, where she is now the Director of Sales. She serves on various boards for the tourism and hospitality industry. (806) 747-5232 amy@visitlubbock.org www.visitlubbock.org

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Feel Good In Small Markets

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Planning A Group Meeting—No Problem. Getting Everyone To Return Home—Good Luck. From our scenic River Walk, to the rugged San Angelo State Park; from our grand historic structures to our culturally sophisticated museums-San Angelo has it all. And at the San Angelo Convention & Visitors Bureau, we are here to help you make the most of it. We provide the support you need to choose from San Angelo’s wide range of facilities, attractions, and accommodations, and help you plan and host the most successful convention or meeting possible. Our friendly professional staff makes planning a visit simple, carefree and even fun. We will gladly serve as liaison with local vendors and even assist you in your marketing efforts. There’s something for everybody in San Angelo. San Angelo is a getaway that offers the perfect blend of West Texas charm, outdoor recreation, culture & arts, and just plain old

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fun. This modern city of nearly 100,000 people is located near the center of Texas and is home to a rich western heritage and a variety of attractions. San Angelo’s famous El Paseo de Santa Angela connects the historic center of the city with Fort Concho National Historic Landmark and a variety of other historical & cultural attractions. In addition, San Angelo hosts an active arts community, highlighted by the San Angelo Museum of Fine Art and the San Angelo Civic Theater. In April of 2011, San Angelo’s own “Texas Dawn water lily was designated as the official Water Lily of Texas, hybridized by Ken Landon, at the San Angelo International Lily Garden. Running through the center of town and home to beautiful, one-of-a-kind freshwater

mussel pearls called “Concho Pearls,” the Concho River is a key feature of San Angelo. ■

get to know... Jenni Hutcheson, Director of Sales, San Angelo CVB Jenni graduated from Angelo State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management & has been the Director of Sales and Servicing for the San Angelo CVB for 13 years. (325) 655-4136 jenni@sanangelo.org www.visitsanangelo.org

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n w o d w o h S n o i t a n i t s De SOUTH’S E H T O T S GUIDES INSIDER’

TOP

D E S T I N AT S G N I T E ME

IONS

VOTED “Most Affordable Destination”

These five destinations went head-tohead in a friendly competition where readers & Facebook fans picked which destination was the most deserving of the categories provided. Visit www.Facebook.com/ ConventionSouth to learn more & vote in the next Destination Showdown.

VOTED “Most Meetings Friendly”

VA KY

Blue Ridge Mountains

Chattanooga

Central Mississippi

West Texas

GA AL

Coastal Georgia

LA TX

VOTED “Best Area For Culture”

64 VOTED “Best Place For Hospitality & Charm”

VOTED “Best Destination to Explore Nature”

55 68

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INSIDER’S

G U I D E By Debbie Wood

Central Mississippi From Jackson to Meridian and surrounding areas, Central Mississippi offers groups a dynamic and diverse culture, as well as a host of activities, including heritage festivals, antique shows, symphony concerts, and more. Music lovers will find their soul here as they enjoy the country, blues, gospel, jazz

ALABAMA ARKANSAS FLORIDA GEORGIA KENTUCKY LOUISIANA MARYLAND MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI NORTH CAROLINA OKLAHOMA TENNESSEE TEXAS VIRGINIA WEST VIRGINIA

and more. Along with this vibrancy, the region is home to a wealth of top-of-the line event venues. ■

The history of the grand opera house at the MSU Riley Center in Meridian is shared through its stunning details.

It’s About Hospitality In Jackson “Jacksonʼs biggest asset is its people,” said Micah Allen, director of sales and marketing for the Jackson Convention Complex. “Hospitality is the name-of-the-game here and the warmth shown to everyone that travels here is memorable. Couple that with the Jackson Convention Complexʼs state-of-the-art 330,000square-foot facility and youʼve got a GREAT combination! The complex can accommodate groups of up to 3,000 with ease and our SMG Savor culinary team can make any food and beverage event one to remember!” Yolanda Clay-Moore of the Jackson CVB continued, “Jackson has accommodations for all budgets, ease of travel, culinary charm, big city amenities with a small-town charm and nothing beats good old Southern Hospitality!” ■

Meridianʼs Crown Jewel “The MSU Riley Center has updated all of their audio/visual systems,” said Dede Mogollon, executive director of the Meridian/Lauderdale County Tourism Commission. “All of the breakout rooms have new flat-screen TVs, projectors, and presentation systems built in. All a presenter needs is their presentation on a jump drive. Itʼs a conference plannersʼ dream!” The facility offers a 5,000-square-foot exhibit hall, a theater for up to 950 and several meeting rooms and classrooms. The staff of the Meridian/Lauderdale County Tourism Bureau will assist you with your event plans of any size and type, Mogollon continued. ■

Upscale, Not Uppity Dining

Dining is an other-world experience in Jackson, which offers over 300 restaurants from formal to casual, elegant to patio-style atmosphere. The Penguin Restaurant and Bar is the latest addition to the many amenities on the Jackson State University campus. The family friendly atmosphere has been coupled with an upscale dining element to provide the best of both worlds when food meets entertainment. The slogan has been “Upscale but Not Uppity,” giving light to the result of upscale dining meets down home. Some of the best live music in the city can be heard at the Penguin on weekends in The Penguin Room, which lies adjacent to the Main Dining area. ■

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A L J AC CE KN ST OR N

M I S S I S S I P P I

EDITOR’S

HOT PICKS CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI and the

soulful cities that make up this salt-of-theearth region can bring new life to your meeting thatʼs looking for unique authenticity. Find affordable meeting venues with cutting-edge technology and top-of-theline Southern hospitality.

TOP PICKS: Meridian/Lauderdale County Tourism Commission (888) 868-7720 www.visitmeridian.com “An event planner’s dream. The perfect marriage of history and technology. Recent audio/visual upgrade.” See Ad On Page 35 MSU Riley Center www.msurileycenter.com Pearl River Resort, Including Silver Star & Golden Moon Hotel & Casino (866) 447-3275 www.pearlriverresort.com “We offer convention and meeting planners the best of both worlds; professional meeting environment and excellent amenities all in one place.” FOLLOW UP: Jackson CVB www.visitjackson.com Hattiesburg CVB www.visithattie.com

Natchez CVB www.visitnatchez.org

CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI IN-DEPTH

Visit www.ConventionSouth.com for more about the Central Mississippi area through our interactive Insiderʼs

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Attendees will feel like a kid again when they visit the Dentzel Carousel at Highland Park in Meridian. In operation since 1909, the carousel is a National Historic Landmark, and the world’s only two-row stationary Dentzel menagerie in existence. Original oil paintings of museum quality adorn the top crown of the carousel. The carousel horses are the theme of the city and hand-painted replicas (pictured above) can be found around town. Meridian is also known as the city where music lives, as the birthplace of blues legends, jazz artists, opera singers, and the Father of Country Music Jimmie Rodgers. Country music lovers will enjoy the Jimmie Rodgers’ Museum with memorabilia of Rodgers’ life and career, including his original guitar. His famous “blue yodels” influenced icons such as Bob Dylan, Merle Haggard, Jerry Garcia, and Elvis. ■

On Site Report:

Vicksburg CVB www.visitvicksburg.com

Toe-Tap In Meridian

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The Pearl Of Central Mississippi

BY MARLANE BUNDOCK

Follow the Pearl River up from the Gulf of Mexico and it eventually meanders northeast of Jackson, Miss., to a rural part of the state. Here, small towns and farmlands keep life simple. But just outside of Philadelphia, Miss., a faster beat of the drum can be heard as the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians shake things up on a nightly basis with their mini-Las Vegas oasis. The Pearl River Resort and itʼs wide variety of attractions has become the pearl of Central Mississippi as it bekons visitors from far and wide. Two luxury casino resorts with all the on-site amenities anyone could ask for—yes of course a buffet—flank the seamingly rural highway. Here, in this river, meetings are a big fish, and making sure it stays that way is the Pearl River Resortʼs true gem Sales Manager Terry Watkins. After spending the afternoon with Terry during a recent visit, I feel confident that your group is in good hands. Her energy is contagious and sheʼs got the experience and know how to make your event a success. Completing the resorts package is one of the countryʼs most beautiful golf clubs, which sits hidden from the road and nestled among the towering pines and stunning oaks of the areaʼs rolling hills. And to keep the children active, a full-fledged waterpark is open during season. ■

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ALABAMA ARKANSAS FLORIDA GEORGIA KENTUCKY LOUISIANA MARYLAND MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI NORTH CAROLINA OKLAHOMA TENNESSEE TEXAS VIRGINIA WEST VIRGINIA

INSIDER’S

G U I D E By Wayne Waters

Chattanooga

Chattanooga keeps choo chooʼn along as a prime convention location in the South. Blessed with an agreeable locale along the banks of the Tennessee River and in the midst of some of the southernmost peaks of the Appalachians, itʼs no wonder the cityʼs official nickname is “Scenic City.” Chattanooga is also blessed with numerous extraordinary attractions like Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga Choo Choo, Chattanooga Zoo, Hunter Museum of American Art, Bluff View Art District, Tennessee Valley Railroad, Southern Belle Riverboat, River Gorge Explorer, Blue Moon luxury cruiser, Tenn., several other major attractions beckon, including Ruby Falls, Ruby Falls ZIPstream Aerial Adventure, Incline Railway, Rock City Gardens and Lookout Mountain Hang Gliding. ■

Attendees will have a “King of the World” moment at Rock City, located just outside Chattanooga.

“Where we’re really different is the great outdoor recreation five to 10 minutes outside of downtown Chattanooga. Rock climbing, whitewater river rafting, hang gliding and more. We offer a lot of adventure and a lot of exceptional teambuilding exercise options.” —Chattanooga CVB Vice President of Sales Ed Dolliver

The riverfront Tennessee Aquarium handles up to 1,000 IMAX 3-D Theater, an outdoor pavilion, and the River Gorge Explorer boat.

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C H A T T A N O O G A

Green MACHINE

With 100,000 square feet of column-free exhibit space, 21 meeting rooms, 40,000 square feet of pre-function space and 11 loading docks – all on one level – the Chattanooga Convention Center is well designed for convenience and optimal functionality. The facility is Green Certified through the Tennessee Green Hospitality Certification Program and features in-house catering service headed by an award-winning chef. ■

Visitors to “Gig City” will find a fiber optic network with Internet speeds up to 1 gigabit per second—the fastest Internet in the western hemisphere—and free WiFi at the convention center.

Climb The BLOCK

One of the biggest new attractions in Chattanooga is High Point Climbing & Fitness, which opened in December 2013. The exceptional 25,000-square-foot climbing center features an auto relay area, multiple bouldering rooms, a speed-climbing wall, sport climbing and a climbing wall that extends to the outside the building. Together with the new Rock Creek boutique and Chattz Coffee, the trio of downtown enterprises, all on the same block, are being referred to collectively as simply The Block. ■

Food & Spirits On the Horizon: Tennessee Stillhouse The Chattanooga Whiskey Company is scheduled to open the Tennessee Stillhouse Distillery in downtown Chattanooga this autumn. The distillery will include a 2,000-gallon whiskey still, a tasting room, barreling operation and bottle shop. ■

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New Chatt Eateries Several tasty restaurants have opened in Chattanooga in the past year. Universal Joint Bar & Restaurant (pictured right) opened last August in a repurposed gas station. The popular limited-chain Tupelo Honey opened a new restaurant last September in Warehouse Row, Chattanooga’s renovated historic building that houses numerous high-style boutiques. Mocha Restaurant and Music Lounge opened a new location in October on Broad Street downtown. November saw the opening of Kitchen at Union Square downtown, which is owned and operated by Culinard, the Culinary Institute of the Virginia College School of Business and Health in Chattanooga. ■

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C H A T T A N O O G A

Chattanooga Hotels:

EDITOR’S

HOT PICKS

CHATTANOOGA is as diverse of a

meetings destination as you can find. Metropolitan yet serene, the city has two nicknames that best explain its range of offerings—”Scenic City” and “Gig City.” Meet there for business and make memories with recreational opportunities.

GO HISTORIC: Authentic meeting venues in Scenic City include the 1,762-totalcapacity historic Tivoli Theatre, a historic showplace known as the “Jewel of the South.” Other venues include the nearly 4,000-seat main hall of the equally historic Auditorium; and several smaller facilities. TOP PICKS: Chattanooga CVB (423) 424-4403 www.chattanoogameetings.com “Come meet in Chattanooga. We are large enough to accommodate you and small enough to appreciate you.” See Ad On Page 18 Chattanooga Convention Center www.chattanoogaconventioncenter.org Chattanooga Marriott Downtown www.marriott.com/chadt Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel www.choochoo.com

Meetings-Minded & Better Than Ever There are more than 2,250 hotels rooms in Chattanooga. One of the most prominent is the Chattanooga Marriott Downtown (formerly Chattanooga Marriott at the Convention Center), which is connected to the Chattanooga Convention Center. “We have a brand new lobby,” noted the property’s Director of Sales and Marketing Mary Childress. “It was a complete renovation that adopted the Marriott Greatroom concept. The lobby is now more spacious and has multiple communal areas with a table, comfortable sofas, high-back chairs and each area has a power supply for guests’ electronic devices.” Chattanooga has only one Four-Diamond property—The Chattanoogan. The 200-room hotel has 25,000 square feet of IACC-certified conference space, including Chattanooga’s largest ballroom, and an 85-seat amphitheater. The property underwent extensive renovations just last year. The Chattanoogan also has restaurants of local and regional acclaim—The Broad Street Grille, The Foundry and Stroud’s, a sidewalk café. The most unique major meeting hotel is undoubtedly the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel. The 363room Choo Choo is on the site of a restored train depot built in 1909 and listed by the National Register of Historic Places. Some of the property’s lodging is in restored Victorian train cars and the

site has 30,000 square feet of meeting space. Despite the Choo Choo’s remarkable historical railroad ambience, however, Choo Choo Director of Sales Annie Still, claims the longevity and customer service culture of the staff is the most unique thing about the property. “Most of the key managers at this locally owned and managed property have been here for many years,” said Still. “You don’t have the turnover here that you typically have at most hotels. Some of our housekeepers have been here 35 years. Our maintenance director has been here 30 years. Our chef’s been here almost 20. I’ve been here 25. Most of my sales people have been here 10 years or more.” The 186-room DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chattanooga Downtown has 11,000 square feet of meeting space. The Sheraton Read House Hotel Chattanooga is another downtown hotel on the National Register of Historic Places. The 241-room facility provides 19,000 square feet of inside meeting space. Outside of city center, the 200-suite Embassy Suites Chattanooga/Hamilton Place opened last summer. It can provide 10,000 square feet of meeting space, as well as a 3,000-square-foot rooftop terrace that overlooks a small lake. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse serves up its award-winning cuisine there. ■

The history of the region comes alive at the restored train depot at Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel.

CHATTANOOGA IN-DEPTH

Visit www.ConventionSouth.com for more about the Chattanooga area through our interactive Insiderʼs Guide

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ALABAMA ARKANSAS FLORIDA GEORGIA KENTUCKY LOUISIANA MARYLAND MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI NORTH CAROLINA OKLAHOMA TENNESSEE TEXAS VIRGINIA WEST VIRGINIA

Cameron Davidson

INSIDER’S

G U I D E By Wayne Waters

Blue Ridge Mountains

The Historic Roanoke City Market is open yearround, seven days a week, and closes only on Christmas and New Yearʼs Day. It has been recognized as a “Great American Public Place” by the Lyndhurst Foundation.

One of the most beautiful regions of Americaʼs Southern landscape is that which extends from western Virginia to western North Carolina—the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sandwiched between the Appalachian Mountain range to the west and the Piedmont regions of the two states to the east, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer scenic beauty and outdoor recreation thatʼs easily accessed. In Virginia, the city of Roanoke is a central point along this Mountain Range and in North Carolina, the city of Asheville is the hub of the region. ■

Roanoke’s Vibrancy Is Anything But Square Roanoke is rockin’ these days! The Roanoke Valley CVB has a brand new vice president of sales, whose 13 years in management at Grove Park Inn, a Four-Diamond property further south in the North Carolina portion of the Blue Ridge range, loves what his new home offers. “A new sense of vibrancy is energizing downtown,” said newly hired Michael Unamue. A new pedestrian plaza opened this spring in downtown Roanoke’s Market Square, further enlivening the city center that has been revitalized in recent years by major renovations of the Roanoke City Market Building, Center in the Square, and the Historic Roanoke City Market. Roanoke Food Tours are another recent addition to the proceedings, offering stopovers in some of the city’s best restaurants along with a taste of history and architecture. w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

Center in the Square houses the city’s major museums – The Science Museum of Western Virginia, The History Museum & Historical Society of Western Virginia, The Harrison Museum of African American Culture and the 340-seat Mill Mountain Theatre. The building’s open-air rooftop greenspace is a new meeting space that can accommodate up to 600 standing. Not far off the square, Roanoke’s major downtown public park, Elmwood Park, is attracting big-name acts like Sheryl Crow to its new amphitheater that opened late last year. The park offers outdoor event space for groups. “We have a wonderful metro/mountain mix,” said Unamue. “The extra amenities this city has to offer are just spectacular, particularly when it comes to things like outdoor excursions, half-day adventures, and the like.” ■ J U L Y 2 0 1 4 ⎜ ConventionSouth ⎜

B L U E

R I D G E

M O U N T A I N S

Roanoke

The Roanoke Civic Center offers 110,000 square feet of exhibit space and houses the 46,000-square-foot Special Events Center, a 10,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall, a 20,000-plus square-foot Coliseum and a 2,150-seat Performing Arts Theatre. The Conference Center of Roanoke provides 63,000 square feet of meeting space in 35 meeting rooms. The IACCcertified facility adjoins the 331-room The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, a DoubleTree by Hilton hotel that was built in 1882 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Roanoke’s primary hotels in addition to its aforementioned namesake hotel include

spaces

The riverfront city of Lynchburg brings American history to life through its numerous attractions.

the 320-room Sheraton Roanoke Hotel & Conference Center that sits on more than 12 acres near the Roanoke Regional Airport. Roanoke Valley is wine country and one of the area’s wineries, Virginia Mountain Vineyard in Fincastle, Va., opened a new outdoor event space last year. About 20 minutes north of Roanoke, the vineyard’s new hardscaped Event and Reception tent can handle up to 250 seated guests and is heated and air conditioned. The Harvester Performance Center recently opened in Rocky Mount, Va., just 20 minutes from Roanoke in the other direction. Primarily a music venue, the new facility also has two state-of-the-art meeting rooms and a kitchen. Its main performance room can hold up to 700 standing or 475 seated and has a 40-foot-wide stage. ■

Center in the Squareʼs open-air rooftop green space is a new meeting space in Roanoke.

Lynchburg

Lynchburg, Virginia, is a Blue Ridge foothills town bordered by the James River about an hour’s drive from Roanoke, two hours from Richmond, and less than four from D.C. “We’re pretty much in the center of everything,” said JoAnn Martin, director of communications and marketing and acting interim director of tourism for Discover Lynchburg. “If you’re interested in Civil War history, we’re not far from the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. The D-Day Memorial is less than an hour away for people interested in World War II history. And Amazement Square, right here in Lynchburg, appeals to people of all ages. The Rightmire Children’s Museum is probably the most-visited museum of its type on the East Coast.” Lynchburg has more than 2,000 guest rooms and over 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. The 25,000-square-foot James River Conference Center in downtown Lynchburg offers 14 meeting areas and can handle up to 1,500 people. It offers full food and beverage service. The 168-room Kirkley Hotel and Conference Center ballroom can seat 335 people for banquets or handle 225 for a conference, along with several smaller meeting rooms. The Kirkley also offers onsite Johnny Bull’s restaurant and a full-service bar. Lynchburg is the home of Liberty University and Lynchburg College, both of which have considerable meeting space. ■

Wytheville get off the beaten path Conveniently located in Southwest Virginia at the intersection of I-81 and I-77, Wytheville sits in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers meeting venues such as the Wytheville Meeting Center. While its Interstate access is a natural draw, groups can get off the

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beaten path and take a leisurely drive on Big Walker Mountain National Forest Scenic Byway, a 16-mile byway with stops like the Big W There you can climb a 100-foot tower or shop for locally made arts and crafts. ■

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B L U E R I D G E M O U N T A I N S

EDITOR’S

HOT PICKS

THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS and the Virginia and

Biltmore Lioncrest–Biltmore Estate

Build A Legacy At Biltmore Estate

I recently visited the magnificent (the word actually name comes from the classic marble statue of fits in this case) Biltmore Estate and, despite the Diana, the Roman goddess of nature and fertility, estate’s size, was somewhat surprised to realize how which stands under a leafy gazebo on the hilltop. many meeting spaces and group activities it affords Biltmore also offers intriguing team-building visitors—whether as a place for an executive retreat, exercises. Two of the most popular are the Antler a reception, group or team-building exerHill Farm scavenger hunt and off-road driving cises or business conferences. lessons through the estate’s Land Rover On-site Report By There are no less than eight dining Experience Driving School. But team-buildWayne locations, each unique and many in ing activities can also be customized by the Waters repurposed historic estate buildings, that Biltmore Estate’s professional facilitators to can provide anything from finger food and meet the particular needs of specific groups. sandwiches to fine dining for group banquets, Group activity options are plentiful at Biltmore receptions or other special events in groups ranging Estate and range from group tours of the Biltmore from a dozen to 600. Deerpark Restaurant is the House to everything from horseback trail rides to estate’s elegant primary eatery and able to accomFrench Broad River rafting to archery lessons and modate the most people. Antler Hill Barn can hanmore. Group discounts apply for groups of 10 dle up to 550 for a less formal event. Lioncrest was or more. originally part of the estate’s dairy farm operation “The overall value of a Biltmore Estate experiand sits in a secluded, wooded spot. It features the ence is excellent,” said Wilber. “You have so Lioncrest Grand Ballroom, the small Chestnut many varied options here, and a complimentary Room, and an open-air veranda and can handle estate-wide shuttle service, you never have to up to 400. The estate’s Stable Café, Champagne leave the estate. We want to help our clients get Cellar and Cedric’s Tavern are among other the most value for their budget by targeting indoor options. specific experiences most suitable for their goals “Whether you’d prefer a formal ballroom setting, and objectives. We can customize something that which we offer, or the more casual, rustic-elegant will fit into their budget.” feel of Lioncrest, or any of our other meeting The primary features of the 8,000-acre Biltmore venues, what we have to offer is unique,” said Estate include the jaw-droppingly large and luxuriBiltmore’s Vice President of Sales Paula Wilber. ous 250-room French Renaissance chateau com“The variety of experiences and activities we have pleted in 1895 that George and Edith Vanderbilt available can accommodate any personality or any called home; Antler Hill Village and Winery; the interest. We have something for everyone.” historic exhibition “The Vanderbilts at Home and For a truly memorable outdoor event, Diana at Abroad;” and the estate’s gardens and conservatory. Biltmore is a great choice. The site sits atop a high The 210-room AAA Four Star Inn on Biltmore hill that affords extraordinary views of the estate Estate offers a variety of rooms and suites and feaand the Blue Ridge Mountains in an expansive area tures a spa, a heated outdoor pool, a small restauthat can accommodate up to 900. This special spot’s rant, a casual dining lounge and a lobby bar. ■

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North Carolina cities that dot this majestic landscape offer groups a salt-of-the-earth meetings experience. Authenticity abounds with a less commercialized approach to tourism offerings.

TOP PICKS: Wytheville CVB (877) 347-8307 www.visitwytheville.com “From an abundance of outdoor recreation to a variety of music and arts venues, there are many reasons for your attendees to love Wytheville.” See Ad On Page 40 Wytheville Meeting Center (866) 694-8287 www.wythevillemeetingcenter.com discoverLynchburg (800) 732-5821 www.discoverlynchburg.org FOLLOW UP: Charlottesville Albemarle CVB www.visitcharlottesville.org Cherokee Tribal Travel & Promotion Office www.cherokee-nc.com Montgomery County Tourism www.yesmontgomeryva.org Roanoke Valley CVB www.visitroanokeva.com/ meetingplanners Winchester - Frederick County CVB www.visitwinchesterva.com

BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS IN-DEPTH

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ALABAMA ARKANSAS FLORIDA GEORGIA KENTUCKY LOUISIANA MARYLAND MISSISSIPPI MISSOURI NORTH CAROLINA OKLAHOMA TENNESSEE TEXAS VIRGINIA WEST VIRGINIA

Amarillo’s Palo Duro Canyon

INSIDER’S

G U I D E By D. Fran Morley

West Texas

Numerous cities under the wide West Texas sky offer planners big-city amenities, small city charm and Texas-sized hospitality with a blend of history and culture that is unique to the American West.

Amarillo: Cowboys to Canyons, Big Skies To Big Steaks

“The ‘Code of the West’ runs deep in Amarillo,” said Eric W. Miller, director of communications, Amarillo Convention and Visitors Council. “Amarillo means value, service and Western heritage. Meetings and all the details that go with them can be planned and executed at a very reasonable cost. Our professional staff and our partners in the city always go the extra mile to ensure satisfaction. We live our heritage every day, from cowboys to canyons, big skies to big steaks.” ■

Where To Meet:

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There are 6,000 hotel rooms in Amarillo with plans for a new downtown convention hotel. “We hope to have shovels in the ground very soon,” Miller said, adding that a ballpark/special event facility is planned. The Amarillo Civic Center Complex includes GlobeNews Center for the Performing Arts (pictured left), a 1,300-seat theater. New or expanded attractions include an expansion at the RV Museum, with vintage RVs and motorcycles; zip lining and rappelling at Palo Duro Adventure Park; and a historic DC-3 (the only flying item on the National Register of Historic Places) at the Texas Air and Space Museum. ■

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Oh Boy!

Lubbock

T E X A S

The Lubbock Area Veterans War Memorial is among the largest memorials in the United States outside of Washington D.C.

A lot is happening in Lubbock, according to Alyssa Kitten, communications coordinator of Visit Lubbock. “The Arbor Inn and Conference Center has broken ground, a new Courtyard by Marriott, located across from Texas Tech University, opens this summer and a few other properties are scoping out locations and expect to break ground soon.” Business is drawn to Lubbock because of true West Texas hospitality, Kitten said. “The Visit Lubbock Team offers the utmost customer service, and our attention to detail will help make any event successful.” With more than 5,300 hotel rooms and a wide variety of offsite venues, planners will find the quality and options of a larger city, “with the friendliness of a small town,” she said. “We also are extremely affordable.” Meeting venues include City Bank Auditorium/Coliseum and the Wells Fargo Amphitheater. Downtown, the MCM Eleganté Lubbock is within walking distance to the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center, with 15,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The Overton Hotel and Conference Center, located next to Texas Tech, has an Have attendees sport their black-framed glasses and sing “Oh Boy!” at the 11,000-square-foot ballroom, meeting Buddy Holly Center in historic Depot Entertainment District. Dedicated to the life and music of Buddy Holly, Lubbock’s favorite son, the Center houses the rooms and executive board room. ■ Texas Musicians Hall of Fame and the Lubbock Fine Arts Gallery.

San Angelo’s Boom

Hold a pickinʼ party in San Angelo, which is well-known for its annual Bluegrass Music Festival.

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New hotel properties are the news in San Angelo, according to Pamela Miller, vice president San Angelo CVB. “Two properties, Baymont Inn and Suites and Hawthorn Suites, opened in the first half of 2014. Coming later this year are Residence Inn by Marriott, Courtyard by Marriott, Home 2 Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, Wingate and Candlewood Suites.” The city offers “full-service attention with West Texas charm,” Miller said, and has a variety of meeting and event venues, including McNease Convention Center, which can accommodate up to 2,000 people in theater-style seating; San Angelo Coliseum; San Angelo City Auditorium; and the Bill Aylor Memorial Riverstage, a 1,000-seat outdoor venue on the banks of the Concho River. There are meeting and event facilities at San Angelo Fairgrounds and San Angelo State University. The city’s historic Cactus Hotel, built in 1928 as one of the original Conrad Hilton Hotels, accepts overnight accommodations and has a variety of event spaces including the Top of the Cactus, a 15-floor ballroom that can accommodate up to 150 people. ■

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El Paso

Southwest’s Next Great Meeting Hub El Paso is on the way to becoming the Southwest’s next great meeting hub, said Kimber Foster, advertising and marketing manager for Destination El Paso. “A $500 million quality-of-life bond is funding a list of projects across the city, including a children’s museum, multipurpose performing arts venue, Hispanic cultural center, new and improved parks, public art projects, a pedestrian pathway and wayfinding signage connecting the most popular districts of downtown and the first TouchCity Digital History Wall in the United States.” El Paso offers affordability in a city that merges four centuries of history and two distinct cultures, Foster said. “With more than 60 daily flights by major Franklin Mountains State Park U.S. carriers, El Paso is easily accessible from anywhere in the country. Not only are we the largest international border community, CQ Press has named us the safest city in the United States for four consecutive years; we have ranked in the top three since 2004.” El Paso Live is a collection of venues for performing arts and events that include the El Paso Convention Center, three theaters, event plaza, rooftop garden and outdoor amphitheater at McKelligon Canyon, where the drama Viva El Paso is staged during the summer months. ■

Abilene

Western heritage is a birthright and pastime in Abilene, said Nanci Lyles, executive director, Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). “An event in Abilene will bring out the west in you. We guarantee an event that your association will talk about for years to come. We encourage planners to discover their own pioneering spirit!” New to Abilene, the Mill Winery, a wine bar and event venue, can accommodate up to 300 people. Frontier Texas, a Western heritage center and meeting facility, recently completed a $2 million redevel-

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Rapid Growth Energizes

Odessa

Rapid growth in the West Texas oil industry means that Odessa is growing fast to keep up with demand, said Linda Sweatt, director, Odessa CVB. “In the past year, Odessa has added five new hotels. We are in the process of building eight additional hotels that should be opened by the end of this year. Another four hotels are planned for next year, making a total of 17 new hotels since the beginning of 2013.” The newly opened hotels have small meeting spaces for groups of between 50 and 100, Sweatt said. Event facilities include a variety of spaces at Odessa College, the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center, located between Odessa and Midland, and the MCM Eleganté Hotel Odessa, with more than 8,600 square feet of space for meetings, conventions and special events. “Your convention group will find quality, value and first-class hotels and a CVB that offers outstanding services,” Sweatt said. “Our CVB has the experience and ability to help you make your meeting a total success.” ■

Gather Around Big Spring

Long before the area was settled, nearby Signal Mountain was a landmark and the spring at Big Spring was a popular watering hole for animals and pioneers making the cross-country trek, according to information from the Big Spring CVB. The historic Hotel Settles has eight dedicated function spaces that can accommodate groups of up to 300. Event spaces include the Grand Ballroom and Mezzanine Lobby, restored to the hotelʼs original 1930s opulence; the Birdwell Conference Room, with seating for up to 14 at an executive conference table; and open-air Pavilion overlooking the pool, fountains and gardens. The Dora Roberts Community Center has a 3,600square-foot ballroom, classrooms, and the Lake Room, which overlooks Comanche Trail Lake. ■

opment. “Frontier Texas is one of the few Historic Cypress facilities in the world with life-size holograms Street Downtown guiding visitors through an interactive experience,” Lyles said. The venue can host up to 100 indoors or 600 for outdoor events. Other facilities include the Abilene Civic Center, the Center for Contemporary Arts and The Grace Museum. Space at Abilene Christian University includes 800-seat Cullen Auditorium plus classroom and reception space at the Teague Center. Visitors looking for a true Texas lodging experience might check out Sayles Ranch, an enclave of guest houses in the historic district that sleep between two and 10 people. ■

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EDITOR’S

HOT PICKS

WEST TEXAS’ destinations are

Dip your toes in an exciting river tour of Big Bend National Park.

Midland Revitalized

Downtown revitalization has been a priority in Midland, said Brenda Kissko, tourism and public relations manager, Midland CVB. “Over the past few years, the city has improved roads and sidewalks, encouraged diversity of business and reopened Centennial Plaza, which is a great outdoor venue. Convenience to Midland Center makes it ideal for festivals, music events and trade shows.” Planners choose Midland for the CVB’s “hands-on service,” Kissko said. “The CVB has a long list of customizable, complimentary services for conventions. We pride ourselves on our hospitality and go above and beyond to ensure a convention

runs smoothly and is enjoyable. We like to add a ‘Midland flavor’ to meetings.” One location for that is the CAF Airpower Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of nose-cone art and other exhibits. The museum has several event spaces for groups of up to 500 people. New for 2014 is a 118room Homewood Suites by Hilton. Hotels opened in 2013 include Comfort Inn, Spring Hill Suites by Marriott and Hilton Garden Inn. Energy Tower, a mixed-use development, is planned for downtown, according to the CVB. Along with offices and residences, it will include a hotel with meeting space, retail, restaurants, entertainment options and outdoor event venues. ■

Wichita Falls

Downtown Development In

Historic downtown Wichita Falls is getting an upgrade, said Lindsay Greer, executive director of Wichita Falls CVB. “Our Downtown Development corporation recently purchased the historic Zales building and is in the process of renovating it. Built in 1885, the structure was originally used as a bank, and in 1924, the first Zales Jewelry store opened in this location. Located in the Depot Square Historical District, this building is of historic significance to the city of Wichita Falls.” Another historic building, Memorial Auditorium, is part of the City of Wichita Fallʼs Multipurpose Event Center complex that includes the J.S. Bridwell Agricultural Center, the Ray Clymer Exhibit Hall and the Kay Yeager Coliseum. “Weʼre excited about the new digital scoreboard in the coliseum, which should be installed by late summer,” Greer said. “This will allow conventions to note keynote speakers or use the scoreboard for sponsorships and highlights.” Wichita Falls offers affordable accommodations and unmatched hands-on service from the staff of the CVB, Greer says. “Our staff is there with you every step of the way, from planning to packing up. Many people donʼt think of Wichita Falls as a destination for their event or meeting, but we can assure you, youʼll be surprised at what you find here.” ■

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an opportunity for attendees to get rugged and capture the resilient spirit of the Old West, and the prosperity boom of the Southwest. Saddle up for an outdoor adventure at one of the numerous parks. TOP PICKS: Amarillo Chamber of Commerce/ Convention & Visitor Council (800) 692-1338 www.visitamarillotx.com “With almost 6000 lodging rooms and all the space you need, Amarillo is that rare site with heritage and hospitality.” See Ad On Page 31 San Angelo CVB (800) 375-1206 www.visitsanangelo.org “Full-service attention with West Texas charm. It’s our pleasure!” See Ad On Page 53 Visit Lubbock, the CVB (800) 692-4035 www.VisitLubbock.org “Come experience the true West Texas hospitality and one-of-a-kind service with our team at Visit Lubbock.” See Ad On Page 52 FOLLOW UP: Abilene CVB www.abilenevisitors.com El Paso CVB www.visitelpaso.com Midland CVB www.visitmidlandtexas.com Odessa CVB www.odessacvb.com Wichita Falls CVB www.wichitafalls.org

WEST TEXAS IN-DEPTH

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INSIDER’S

G U I D E By Adrianne Bowen of Georgia

Coastal Georgia

Pictured above: The Crab Shack in Tybee Island is where to go for fresh seafood. Plus, it seats 600 & offers motorcoach parking.

Personality is a trait that many planners look for in choosing a destination, and in the South, what better place to find unique experiences with ocean flair than Coastal Georgia? From the historical streets of Savannah to the beachfront towns of Tybee Island and Jekyll

Island, itʼs easy to see why Georgiaʼs coast is a much sought after seaside retreat.

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avannah’s Fusion Of Flavors Keeps It Fresh Each Visit

What makes Savannah such an indescribable experience for visitors? It could be the amazing food (try Belford’s Savannah—an old warehouse turned restaurant where I can personally recommend the shrimp, greens, and grits entrée—or the Pirate House, a haunted must-see where you can get a souvenir skull mug with your drink and hear colorful stories about the pirate ghosts inhabiting the place); the night life which includes a chance to see the famous Lady Chablis of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil fame (both the book and the movie in which she plays her-

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self in several scenes with John Cusack!) perform at Club One; or the plethora of other adventures awaiting anyone lucky enough to visit. Visit Savannah’s Vice President of Business Development Jeff Hewitt explained the city’s allure. “Savannah is a genuinely unique and authentically Southern experience. Established in 1733, Savannah has nearly 300 years of history, and it’s the campus for the world renowned Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD),” said Hewitt. “The balance of historic and hip creates a fusion of flavors

in our coastal cuisine, night life and cultural offerings.” With this fusion, Savannah offers planners more than just a fun destination; Hewitt said that one reason for planners to choose this seaside city is because of “record attendance!” Groups consistently tell us that their meetings/conventions in Savannah set registration and revenue records. We’ve been called a bucket list city. Those that haven’t visited us yet are anxious to learn what we’re all about. Those that have come here want more of what they found.” ■ w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

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Where To Meet:

Savannah’s Historic District Is The Place For Groups

Savannah’s venues keep getting better with new options already here and some on the horizon. According to Hewitt, Embassy Suites Savannah in the historic district opened with 150 rooms and 5,000 square feet of meeting space in Dec. 2013. Another new option available, “Kimpton Hotels recently purchased, renovated and opened a 147-room historic hotel in their unique style,” Hewitt said. Upcoming venues include a 162-room Homewood Suites on the river front, scheduled to open in Spring 2015, and Developer Richard Kessler is building a new hotel/entertainment/retail complex along the river front with an estimated 200 rooms scheduled to open in 2016, according to Hewitt. The Savannah International Trade and Convention Center is comprised of a 100,000-square-foot exhibit hall, a 25,000-square-foot ball-

room and up to 21 breakouts, according to Hewitt. Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa is located adjacent to the trade center in the heart of the historic Savannah River District. This property’s prime waterfront location sets it apart from other Savannah hotels. Guests receive complimentary water ferry service to River Street. Hilton Savannah DeSoto features 246 guest rooms and 19,000 square feet of flexible meeting space with 11 breakout rooms. Director of Sales Kim Chambless said when stepping into the hotel, the grand lobby greets visitors with crystal chandeliers and that telltale southern ambience and charm found in Savannah. Many of the meeting spaces have natural light and the 15th floor Harbor Room was completely renovated this year, offering panoramic views of the city. “Because we are a tower, the hotel offers guests fantastic views of the historic district,” Chambless said. ■

Approximately 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, Ocean Plaza Beach Resort on Tybee Island presents 200 guest rooms and 4,500 square feet of meeting space, according to Curry Nicolini, sales manager, who added that the island and resort make for an unforgettable experience. “Tybee Island was recently named one of the “10 Best Places to Watch a Sunset” by USA Today. It was also voted “Best Beach Destination” by readers of Georgia Magazine.” With beach access, “many upper level rooms offer a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean and the Tybee Pier The resort also includes the award winning Dolphin Reef quet/conference facilities to accommodate any event from 10-200 people, Nicolini said. ■

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Budget Friendly

Outdoor & Cultural Activities That Won’t Break Your Bank Making economical choices is a big draw in todayʼs meetings sector. With so many adventures awaiting visitors to the Ga. Coast, it is a great place to bring the family or enjoy solo activities that will make your wallet happy. Check out these budget-friendly ideas for attendees:

■ Skidaway Island State Park (near Savannah): Bordering Skidaway Narrows, a part of Georgiaʼs intracoastal waterway, the park has trails through maritime forest and past salt marsh, leading to a boardwalk and observation tower. There are several options for camping, swimming, animal watching, etc. It even features a 20-foot Giant Ground Sloth replica and a reptile room. Entrance into the park is free with $5 parking fee for cars, $30 parking for 13-30 passenger vans and reasonable camping fees. ■ ■ St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum (St. Simons Island): The Lighthouse is also located at the Pier Village area, adjacent to Neptune Park. The Lighthouse is open daily for tours and admission and also includes a visit to the Maritime Museum at the Coast Guard Station beach. $12 for adults and $5 for kids 6-12. ■

■ Summer Waves (Jekyll Island): Summer Waves Water Park is great for families of all ages. It features six water slides, wave pool, lazy river, splash zone and kiddie area. There is a $6 fee per car on Jekyll Island that you pay when coming on the island. General admission to the water park is $19.95, junior admission (under 48” tall) is $15.95, kids 3 and under are free. ■ ■ Neptune Park (St. Simons Island): This is located at the Pier Village area, which is a huge draw for visitors with the ocean right at your feet. Neptune Park also features a playground and the Neptune Park Fun Zone, complete with pools, a childʼs water park and mini golf. The pool is $7 per person. Putt putt is also $7 per person. ■

■ Georgia Sea Turtle Center (Jekyll Island): A rehabilitation, research and education facility that allows visitors to tour the turtle hospital and explore the life of a sea turtle. The exhibit is interactive and great for all ages. $7 for adults and $5 for kids 6-12. ■

ichmond Hill Hosts Southern Chic Green Meetings

Patti Todd Photography

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■ Pin Point Heritage Museum (near Savannah): Tania Smith-Jones, site administrator for the museum, said that it tells the story of the A.S. V tory and celebrates the life, work and history of this Gullah/Geechee community; this is a fun adventure great for the family or groups. $7 for adults during regular operating hours, $4 for children ages 2-12, and $8 per adult for group appointments. ■

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Located about 20 miles from Savannah, Richmond Hill City Center provides 10, 205 square feet of meeting space. Catering and Conference Sales Manager Caitlin Young said the LEED-certified building is eco-friendly and includes audio/visual capabilities in all meeting space and an on-site catering team to meet all needs in one place. “Working with the same people the whole time makes it easy for people to come and feel a sense of less stress because we are very inclusive when planning all events.” ■ w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

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The Golden Isles: Nature, History & Even Ghost Tours Will Lure You In With so much to explore in a place known for its golden landscapes and breathtaking ocean and river views, the Golden Isles of Georgia, comprised of the mainland city of Brunswick and four barrier islands—St. Simons, Sea, Little St. Simons, and Jekyll Islands— located midway between Savannah and Jacksonville, Fla., can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want the stay to be—or maybe a little bit of both. “No trip to the Golden Isles is complete without experiencing one of our nature, historic or ghost tours. With our coastal marshlands and beaches so full of life, there are very few places better suited for nature tours. You can choose from quiet and educational birding tours— to discover many of the 300+ species that frequent the Golden Isles—or an adventurous and educational shrimping tour aboard the Lady Jane, a working shrimp boat, said CEO Scott McQuade of the Golden Isles CVB, adding that “the area’s beauty and world-class golf courses, facilities and instructors have earned the Golden Isles its reputation as a golfer’s paradise.” Jekyll Island, with its acres of protected beach, is not just known for its sea turtles; the island is able “to offer our groups such ameni-

ties as beach runs for their attendees, low country boils and oyster roasts on the beach. A custom made scavenger hunt highlights our historic district and unique island settings. Dolphin Tours and Trolley rides around the island can include stop offs at island bars and restaurants,” said Kevin Udelll, director of sales for the Jekyll Island Authority. The island includes eight hotels that range from budget friendly to the Four-Star Westin slated to open later this year, offering something for every budget. The new Beach Village shopping and dining plaza is slated to open later this year adjacent to the newly opened Jekyll Island Convention Center, the only beachfront convention center in the Southeast. Also expected to open this year, the 155-room ocean-front Holiday Inn Resort will provide a ballroom overlooking the ocean and an oversized event lawn. The Beachhouse, a restaurant that will serve fresh local seafood, homemade pizza and craft beer, will open next to the resort. Expected to open by early 2016, two new Marriott hotels, the 200room Springhill Suites and the 155-room Courtyard by Marriott, will be also be ocean front with oversized pools, according to Agnew. ■

Gather in the spotlight with an outdoor event held on the grounds of the “haunted” St. Simons Island Lighthouse.

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COASTAL GEORGIA and its land-

The Preserve at Village Creek Landing on St. Simons Island provides a natural setting for recreation and events.

scape of marshes, rivers, beaches and historic cities creates a timeless appeal where attendees can unwind and re-charge in a sophisticated yet vibrant environment. From the fountains of Savannah to the Avenue of Oaks on St. Simons Island, there are countless reasons attendees will be drawn to the region.

TOP PICKS: Visit Savannah (877) SAVANNAH www.SavannahMeetings.com “Savannah has been ranked as one of Trip Advisor’s ‘Top 25 Destinations to Visit in the World.’” See Ad On Page 76 Savannah International Trade & Convention Center www.savtcc.com Richmond Hill CVB www.richmondhillvisit.com Richmond Hill City Center (912) 445-0043 www.richmondhillcitycenter.com WEB CODE: RHCCCS “Book an event with us by Sept. 30, will receive a 10% discount on published menus & rentals.” See Ad On Page 69 FOLLOW UP: Golden Isles of Georgia CVB www.GoldenIsles.com Visit Tybee www.visittybee.com

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The Golden Isles:

Where To Meet For Extraordinary Events A national historic landmark, Jekyll Island Club Hotel provides 157 guest rooms and more than 14,500 square feet of indoor function space as well as “234 acres of outdoor opportunities,” said Brittney Strickland, social media manager. “We are home to gorgeous sunken gardens, historic mansions with wrap around verandas, a riverfront lawn, and banquet/meeting rooms that once belonged to the millionaires of the late 1880’s. We also have meeting space restored from its early days as a billiards room, parlor, cards room and libraries. All of this makes for a productive yet historic meeting.” Sea Palms Resort provides 135 guest rooms, 27 holes of championship golf, and 7,800 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. “The resort is uniquely situated along the salt marshes of St. Simons Island,” said Director of Sales and Marketing Tim Aylsworth, “With our size we are a great fit for any small to medium sized group. The room configuration makes us an ideal fit for corporate retreats, weddings, family reunions and for any type of golf outing.” Currently focusing on the pools, the resort is in the beginning stages of a major renovation project that will “impact all areas of the resort,” according to Aylsworth, with a goal for completing the project by the end of 2014. The Ocean Lodge on St. Simons was voted No.1 resort on St. Simons by TripAdvisor, featuring 15 suites, seating for 150 including the Rooftop Terrace overlooking the ocean, and a 25-seat boardroom with advanced technology, according to Suzanne Harnage, group sales and event manager. The King and Prince, offering 195 accommodations including guest rooms, 2-3 bedroom villas and

beach cottages, and 11,000 square feet of meeting space, is a national historic landmark with a colored history including being occupied by the navy as a radar training school and active radar station during World War II, according to Michael Johnson, director/general manager. Complete renovations ending this year have transformed the hotel while still maintaining the historical elements. “It’s the only full service resort property on St. Simons; our historic oceanfront property is a location that people can enjoy year round.” For some extraordinary meetings options on St. Simons, “Village Creek Landing and the A.W Jones Heritage Center are both great unique locations,” said Scott McQuade. “Village Creek Landing [with private events for 10 to 290 guests] is located on the north end of St. Simons, right on the marsh. You can’t beat the views!” The 10,000-square-foot A.W. Jones Heritage Center, offering a 1,400-square-foot event hall and located at the Lighthouse on St. Simons, is “a great meeting space and is in walking distance of the Pier Village area,” McQuade said. Sea Island, well known for its golfing tradition and elegant ocean-front accommodations, features The Cloister with 175 guest rooms, The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club with 40 guest rooms, and The Inn at Sea Island with 85 guest rooms, as well as 140 private cottages, according to Mary Tipton, director of marketing communications for Sea Island. The island is a great draw for events with 17,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, “ranging from private board rooms to an elegant 7,800square-foot-ballroom that accommodates 400 attendees,” Tipton explained. ■ w w w. c o n v e n t i o n s o u t h . c o m

ConventionSouth Sponsor Index

Make your job easier! Work with meetng suppliers who are actvely seeking your business and have a genuine interest in serving the needs of meetng planners by supportng the editorial content of ConventonSouth. The following meetng suppliers have sponsored this issue. Learn more about them on the page numbers listed below and tell them you saw their ad in ConventonSouth. ALABAMA

Douglasville CVB (800) 661-6069 www.visitdouglasville.com

Houma Area CVB (800) 688-2732 www.houmatravel.com

Forum Civic Center Complex (706) 291-5281 www.forumevents.org

Jefferson CVB – Kenner (877) 572-7474 www.visitjeffersonparish.com

Greater Rome CVB (800) 444-1834 www.romegeorgia.org

Von Braun Center (256) 551-2230 www.vonbrauncenter.com

XSITE (727) 822-4414 www.xsitehow.com

James H. Rainwater Conference Center 38 (229) 245-0513 www.rainwaterconferencecenter.com

Lafayette Convention & Visitors Commission (800) 346-1958 www.lafayette.travel

Huntsville/Madison County CVB (256) 551-2230 www.huntsville.org The Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa (251) 928-9201 www.marriottgrand.com

ARKANSAS Conway CVB (866) 7CONWAY www.conwayark.com

FLORIDA Courtyard Sandestin at Grand Boulevard (850) 650-7411 www.marriott.com/vpscy Tops’l Beach & Racquet Resort (850) 231-7773 www.topsl.com

Visit South Walton 3 (800) 822-6877 www.visitsouthwalton.com/meetings WaterColor Inn & Resort (850) 231-7773 www.watercolorresort.com

Macon - Bibb County CVB (800) 768-3401 www.visitmacon.org Northwest Georgia Trade & Convention Center (800) 824-7469 www.daltontradecenter.com Richmond Hill City Center (912) 445-0043 www.richmondhillcitycenter.com Savannah International Trade & Convention Center (912) 447-4000 www.savtcc.com

Albany CVB (866) 750-0840 www.visitalbanyga.com

Dalton CVB (800) 331-3258 www.visitdaltonga.com

Douglasville Conference Center (678) 715-6094 www.visitdouglasville.com

FREE Planners Guides Receive a free packet of information directly from our sponsors, including meeting site guides and brochures. Just fill in the following information based on how you would like to receive the information and send it to us. We'll ask our sponsors to send you their free guides simplifying your research and planning process. You can fax the form to (251) 968-2033, scan or snapshot it and email it to info@conventionsouth.com or fill out the online form at www.conventionsouth.com/ forms.interest.cfm or via this scan tag. NAME: _____________________________________________________________

Visit Savannah (877) SAVANNAH www.savannahmeetings.com

CITY: _______________________________________________________________

COMPANY: __________________________________________________________ ADDRESS: ___________________________________________________________

STATE: ______________________________________________________________ ZIP: _________________________________________________________________ PHONE: _____________________________________________________________ 23

FAX: ________________________________________________________________ EMAIL: _____________________________________________________________

LOUISIANA Hilton Shreveport (318) 698-0900 www.shreveport.hilton.com

Shreveport/Bossier Convention & Tourist Bureau 41 (800) 551-8682; ext. 108 www.shreveport-bossier.org/meetings

TITLE: ______________________________________________________________

Mt. Sterling/Montgomery County Tourism (866) 415-7439 www.mtsterlingtourism.com

Shreveport Convention Center (318) 841-4203 www.shreveportcenter.com

Valdosta -Lowndes Conference Center & Tourism Authority 38 (800) 569-TOUR www.visitvaldosta.org

KENTUCKY

GEORGIA

Paragon Casino Resort & Conference Center (800) WIN-1-WIN www.paragoncasinoresort.com

Pontchartrain Convention & Civic Center (504) 465-9985 www.pontchartraincenter.com

Please note any particular sponsors who you would like to order a free guide from: 41

____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________

This sponsor index is published for the convenience of our readers. Every effort is made to list advertisers’ names, web addresses, phone numbers, and page numbers correctly. The publisher is not liable for errors or omissions.

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ConventionSouth Sponsor Index MISSISSIPPI Meridian/Lauderdale County Tourism Commission (888) 868-7720 www.visitmeridian.com

TENNESSEE 35

Pearl River Resort, Including Silver Star & Golden Moon Hotel & Casino 57 (866) 44PEARL www.pearlriverresort.com

NORTH CAROLINA Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club (910) 692-7111 www.pineneedles-midpines.com

Chattanooga CVB (423) 424-4419 www.chattanoogameetings.com Gatlinburg CVB & Convention Center (800) 343-1475 www.meetings.gatlinburg.com

TEXAS Amarillo Chamber of Commerce/ Convention & Visitor Council (800) 692-1338 www.visitamarillotx.com

Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area CVB 51 (800) 346-5362, ext. 237 www.homeofgolf.com/meetings-groups

Brenham/Washington County Chamber/CVB (888) 273-6426 www.visitbrenhamtexas.com

Visit Winston-Salem (866) 728-4200 www.visitwinstonsalem.com

Ford Park (877) 266-6939 www.fordpark.com Frisco CVB (877) 463-7472 www.visitfrisco.com

Hotel Galvez & Spa, A Wyndham Grand Hotel (409) 515-2118 www.wyndham.com

McAllen Convention Center 24 (956) 681-3800 www.mcallenconventioncenter.net Pearland CVB (713) 436-5595 www.visitpearland.com

San Angelo CVB (800) 375-1206 www.sanangelo.org

The Tremont House A Wyndham Grand Hotel 48 (409) 763-0300 www.wyndhamtremonthouse.com

Victoria CVB (361) 485-3116 www.victoriatexas.com

Visit Lubbock, the CVB (800) 692-4035 www.visitlubbock.org

VIRGINIA Hampton Roads Convention Center 42 (800) 487-8778 www.visithampton.com Hampton CVB (800) 487-8778 www.visithampton.com

Wytheville CVB (877) 347-8307 www.visitwytheville.com

Wytheville Meeting Center 40 (866) 694-8287 www.wythevillemeetingcenter.com

WEST VIRGINIA Summersville Arena & Conference Center (304) 872-3722 www.summersvillearena.com Summersville CVB (304) 872-3722 www.summersvillecvb.com

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