Corporate Meetings and Events - March/April 2009

March/April 2009

Canada's Premier Publication for Corporate Meeting & Event Organizers

Meeting Trends

Industry players brace for change

PM 40063056

Inside:

Discovering Ontario Betting on Vegas Gaming venues in canada

contents REGIONAL PROFILE 8 ONTARIO

Where history meets the future

By Lucie Grys

cover FEatures 14 LAS VEGAS

No gamble for meeting planners

By Jamie Zachary

18

MEETING CHANGES HEAD ON

The experts pinpoint trends for 2009

28 CANADA’S GOT GAME

Rolling the dice at the country’s hot spots

departments 5 Editor’s Note 6

INDUSTRY NEWS

22

NEW AND IMPROVED

Hyatt Regency Toronto on King

By Martin Hirschberg

24

AV INSIGHT

Microphones: The first link in the audio chain

By Ralph Niekamp

26 CHEF’S SPOTLIGHT Fairmont Château Laurier’s Geoffrey Morden returns to where it all began

By Habeeb Salloum

Corporate Meetings & Events | 3

The Place Where Exceptional Service & Your Business Needs Meet.

Imagine the possibilities offered for your next business function at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel and Conference Centre • 25 private function rooms and boardrooms totaling over 40,000 square feet of meeting space • 8,400 sq.ft. Grand Ballroom with a 2,700 sq.ft. adjacent foyer for large events • on-site business centre open daily

• wireless and high-speed internet access in all meeting rooms and guest rooms • on-site meeting specialists on-hand to ensure your event is a success • 402 guest rooms featuring views of the Falls

6755 Fallsview Blvd., Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3W7 1-800-618-9230 • www.fallsview.com

editor's note

Corporate Meetings & Events Volume 10 Number 2

Publisher

Vaios Petsis

Editor

Scott Anderson

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Annette Carlucci

Designer

Ian Clarke

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President Vice-President

A golden opportunity

T

The deepening economic crisis has forced organizations across the country to adapt to the devastating effects of the downturn. Companies no longer have the budgets they once had and are forced to scrutinize each and every expense.

This has spilled over to meetings and conferences as well. Companies big and small must weigh the benefits of their participation in an event with the return that will they derive from the function. Gone are the days of the corporate boondoggle and the “golf meetings.” Instead companies are planning smaller meetings closer to home with an emphasis on getting the work done.

CM&E asked meeting planners from across the country to identify the trends for 2009 and the common themes included shorter planning times to the actual event, small attendance, future events being suspended, and a much more frugal approach to the events.

But the changing times will also give the meetings industry a golden opportunity to showcase its importance to the country’s economy by creating new business and investment opportunities.

Rod Cameron, Executive Director, at Convention Centres of Canada, says “this crisis will give the meetings industry as a whole the best opportunity to demonstrate its critical position in the overall economy. With all eyes looking for anything that promises economic stimulation, the role our industry plays in generating direct economic benefits based on delegate spending will get a new focus.”

With a recovery for the Canadian economy not seen until at least the second half of this year, now is the time for our industry to band together and show the country just how important it is to the economy.

Kevin Brown Chuck Nervick

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40063056 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Circulation Dept.

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Scott Anderson Editor

Printed in Canada Reprint permission requests to use materials published in Corporate Meetings & Events should be directed to the publisher.

Corporate Meetings & Events | 5

industrynews

DIRECT ENERGY CENTRE KEEPS IT GREEN Direct Energy Centre, in partnership with Direct Energy Business, recently launched the “Keeping it Green” program, an easy, cost-effective service which will enable event planners and meeting organizers to reduce the environmental impact of their event.

The “Keeping it Green” program allows meeting planners and event organizers to purchase Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) equiva lent to t he a mou nt of electricity used by their event. These RECs, which come from EcoLogo certified generation facilities, represent proof that one megawatt hour of electricity was generated from a renewable source -- such as wind, solar, low impact hydro, biomass, biodiesel or geothermal power -- and delivered into a power grid.

“D i r e c t E n e r g y i s c o m m it t e d t o developing products and services that help our customers reduce their environmental impact a nd become more energ y efficient,” says Maura Clark, president, Direct Energy Business. “Event planners and meeting organizers will now be able to substantially reduce the carbon impact of their events. This is not only a good marketing message for the event but the right thing to do for the environment.”

Direct Energy Business, naming rights part ner for Direct Energ y Cent re at Exhibition Place, created a customized program to provide REC’s for trade/ consumer shows and events at the facility.

The “Keeping it Green” program stood out as comprehensive and straight forward, and fit with the environmental mandate at Exhibition Place. Direct Energy Centre and Exhibition Place prides itself on demonstrating to its event organizers, exhibitors, and attendees that it is possible to organize a successful event and be environmentally friendly.

As part of the “Keeping it Green” 6 | March/April 2009

program, Direct Energy Centre will assist event organizers and meeting planners to promote their event as supporters of sustainable energy.

The Interior Design Show, which took place at Direct Energy Centre in February, was the first event to participate in the “Keeping it Green” program.

“The Interior Design Show’s exhibitors, sponsors and guests challenged us to place more focus on the environment in all aspects of the show. The “Keeping it Green” program offered at Direct Energy Centre was a very easy way to ensure our three-day event had limited environmental impact,” says Judy Merry, vice-president, operations, Interior Design Show.

from Venue West chose Québec City for the NAACCR 2010-meeting. The NAACCR meets in Canada every four years. Past Canadian cities have included Regina, Toronto and Vancouver.

T h e NA ACC R i s a p r o f e s s i o n a l organization that develops and promotes u n i for m dat a st a nda rd s for c a nce r registration; provides education and t rai n i ng; cert i fies populat ion-based reg ist ries; agg regates and publishes data from central cancer registries; and promotes the use of cancer surveillance data and systems for cancer control and epidemiologic research, public health programs, and patient care to reduce the burden of cancer in North America.

GREEN IS IN THE BAG IN QUEBEC The Québec Cit y Convention Centre n ow o f f e r s b i o de g r ad a b l e b ag s at every cloakroom. Bags made of oxobiodegradable polyethylene will now be used to store personnel effects and shoes.

This eco-friendly bag will biodegrade within 12 months, therefore lessening the environ mental impact of normal plastic bags.

QUEBEC CITY FLIGHTS MADE EASIER Since February 2009, the Québec City Convention Centre’s visitors have been able to better plan their departure time f rom t he Jea n-Lesage I nter n at ion a l Airport. The Convention Centre is the first establishment in Québec City to feature flight schedules.

Screens are installed at the convention centre so that visitors can check flights leaving from the airport in Québec City.

Furthermore, the convention centre plans to install self-service check-in kiosks within the next year. Passengers will then be able to print their boarding passes before leaving the Convention Centre.

NAACCR TO MEET IN QUEBEC IN 2010 The North American Association and Central Cancer Registries (NAACCR) chose Québec City for its 2010 meeting.

Close to 500 participants will gather at the Québec City Convention Centre from June 19 to 26, 2010. The seven-day event will also include a 30-booth exhibition.

Charmed by the beauty of the city and the state-of-the-art facilities, organizers

M RESORT OPENS IN LAS VEGAS M Resort Spa Casino, a US$1-billion resort casino located on South Las Vegas Boulevard and St. Rose Parkway, opened its doors on March 1. Driven by a personal, hands-on service approach, the M Resort offers great service and value in gaming, entertainment and dining.

Residing on more than 90 acres and situated 400 feet higher in elevation than the resort-casinos on the world-famous Las Vegas Strip, the M Resort provides optimal views of the famous skyline from the rooms, restaurants and lobby within the resort. The M Resort embodies a unique contemporary architectural design and is infused with rich colors, subtle horizontal lines and finely crafted materials.

industrynews T he M Resor t i s t he product of a and fitness center and a 100,000-square collaboration between Anthony Marnell foot events piazza.

III, chairman and ch ief executive of The M Resort will include up to one the M Resort and his father, architect million square feet of retail, a partnership Tony Ma r nel l, cha i r ma n of Ma r nel l with Taubman Centers Inc. and a 14-screen Corrao Associates, the construction and digital movie entertainment complex. development company responsible for notable projects throughout Las Vegas GROUPS TEAM UP TO including Wynn, Treasure Island, the INVITE WORLD TO CANADA Mirage, Caesars Palace and the Rio All- The Ca nadia n Tourism Com m ission Suite Hotel & Casino.

(CTC) and the RÊseau de dÊveloppement For the meeting planner, the M Resort Êconomique et d’employabilitÊ du Canada offers more than 60,000 square feet of (RDÉE Canada) have ratified a partnership open and dynamic conference space, agreement to formalize their collaboration including a 17,400-square foot ballroom, in promoting Canadian products and multiple reception areas and a convenient tourist destinations internationally. business center. Designed for optimal T he ob je c t ive s of t h i s ag r e eme nt customization, the M Resort provides the include supporting the development and latest technology and connectivity along implementation of an international tourism with unmatched flexibility. marketing strategy for Francophone and The M Resort provides optimal views Acadian communities, and promoting of the world-famous Las Vegas skyline a focused approach involving private from its guest rooms, suites, conference and community tourism stakeholders in center and restaurants. The resort offers minority communities.

390 guest rooms and suites, over 92,000 RDÉE Canada and the CTC will work square feet of gaming, nine restaurants together in media relations, developing and five destination bars, more than products a nd ser v ices, a nd l ia isi ng 60,0 0 0 s q u a r e f e e t o f m e e t i n g a nd between tourism industry stakeholders.

6527 corp space, meeting ad.pdf 2/13/09 Pagewill 1 also work to raise the conference a state-of-the-art spa 2:07 The PM parties

awareness of federal, provincial and territorial tourism partners vis Ă vis Canada’s tourism and cultural diversity, as well as the added value the Francophone and Acadian communities bring to the Canadian economy. “The 2010 Winter Games will accelerate the process of securing recognition for Canada as a destination offering some of the most extraordinary experiences in the world,â€? says Chantal PĂŠan, senior vicepresident of corporate affairs and corporate secretary of the CTC. “This memorandum ensures that we will have the content needed for international media, who will write and broadcast about Canada and its Francophone tourism products throughout the world.â€? “RDÉE C a n ad a i s p r oud t o h ave developed this special partnership with the Ca nadia n Tourism Com m ission.

The impact of our actions are sure to benefit our country, as this collaboration will strengthen Canada’s Francophone and Acadian tourism destinations and products,â€? says Roger Lavoie, director general of RDÉE Canada. “We want to invite the entire world to explore our beautiful country!â€?

Make your next event eventful.

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Regi o n al P r o file

The Province of Ontario

Where history meets the future

By Lucie Grys

8 | March/April 2009

Regi o n al P r o file

Ontario truly is yours to discover. With its natural beauty and boundless options ranging from modern urban conference centres to enchanting country inns, planning a meeting or an event in any of Ontario’s unique regions will long be remembered.

Ontario’s cities offer excellent options for meetings and events of any size and budget. From historical to modern, artistic to environmental, meeting venues in Ontario are yours to discover -- and you won’t be disappointed.

KINGSTON Kingston, Ontario, located just hours from Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa is home to Canada’s only UNESCO’s World Heritage Designated Site, Fort Henry. For corporate groups, the fort offers a number of one-of-a-kind areas to host strategy sessions, working lunches or exclusive cocktail parties. The vast grounds have the potential to accommodate several thousands of people.

A favorite event, reserved for groups of 15 or more delegates, is the Barracks Banquet where costumed staff take your group back in time to the mid-1800s as guests of the Officers' Mess. Menu options reflect the tastes of the Victorian period and actors bring events to life with stories and anecdotes about early days in Ontario at Fort Henry.

With all the major hotel chains as well as St. Lawrence College and Queen’s University that transform themselves into meeting venues in the summer months, there are more than 3,500 guest rooms offering a change of pace from larger cities. Taking a tour of the 1,000 Islands or having a party at the newly renovated Renaissa nce Event Cent re or Gra nd Theatre are also exciting options for meeting professionals.

LONDON

Barry Webb, manager of Conventions at Tourism London, knows his city inside and out. Historical properties like the Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre, part of the Dolce Hotels and Resorts group, is a 125-room Georgian manor on 30 b eaut i f u l ly la nd s cap ed ac re s. Wit h 14,000 square feet of function space, 26 meeting rooms and three amphitheatres that include Conference Planners, the latest high-tech resources and dedicated technology personnel, the centre is fully equipped with all of the modern touches while keeping its old world charm.

Similarly, Windermere Manor, within walking distance of the University of Western Ontario, also offers venue space in an historical setting. All of the latest hightech appointments along with nearly 50 guest rooms create an intimate environment within a stunning natural location.

The Universit y of Western Ontario also offers a number of meeting facilities when school is out for the summer. The Great Hall is a very traditional space that can accommodate 430 people for a sit down dinner.

The Best Western Lamplighter Inn has an impressive glass atrium, water slide and retractable roof and is a tropical paradise in the middle of the city. The renovated ballroom can accommodate up to 800 people for a reception or 500 for a sit down affair.

If something more personal is what you a r e lo ok i ng for, t he n Jon at hon Bancroft Snell Interiors might be just

the spot. The gallery showcases works by top ceramic artists and is a space where guests can mingle over cocktails amidst the renowned work.

WINDSOR The big attraction in Windsor, Ontario, is the newly renovated Caesars Windsor.

A l o n g w it h a mu lt i m i l l i o n - do l l a r renovat ion of t he casi no, t here is a 5,000-seat entertainment space as well as countless meeting rooms and ballrooms to host your corporate event.

“When thinking of unique planning ideas, you wa nt to break out of t he traditional pattern,” says Gordon Orr, managing director of Conventions and Visitors for the region of Windsor, Essex County and Pelee Island.

With top entertainment names gracing the stage at the casino, delegates have a bevy of entertainment options to enjoy once the business day is over.

There are also properties like Willstead Manor and Mackenzie Hall available to o. Wi l l st e ad M a nor i s a 36 -r o om mansion nestled within a 15-acre park.

It offers gracious accommodations for weddi ngs, recept ions, meet i ngs a nd other special events. Mackenzie Hall, wh ich was built by Canada’s second Prime Minister Alexander Mackenzie, in 1855, hosts receptions, meetings and business functions.

Pair your corporate event with a trip to the Canadian Club Brand Centre for a tour and tasting. The outdoor grounds of the centre can accommodate up to Corporate Meetings & Events | 9

Regi o n al P r o file 450 people for a reception overlooking the Detroit River.

Along with the casino and historical propert ies i n Wi ndsor, a number of wineries have been making their mark as well. Within a short drive from the city centre, wineries offer superb dining and meeting facilities and focus on culinary tourism experiences with local produce matched with regional wines.

Photo courtesy of Image Ontario

NIAGARA Known for its wineries, tourist appeal, high-end hotels, spas and cozy bed and breakfasts, the Niagara region is a favorite destination for meeting planners. Joyce Morocco, director of Sales for Niagara Falls Tourism, promises an “unconventional experience.” In recent years, Niagara Falls has gone from kitsch to class and offers top-notch meeting facilities and suites.

The Niagara region boasts more than 16,000 guest rooms to appeal to every taste and budget. Opening in the spring of 2011 is the New Niagara Convention and Civic Centre. A 280,000-square foot LEED certified space, the building will be able to cater to any sized group and promises to offer exceptional service.

You make the call. We do it all.

1-877-832-6416 www.conference.navcanada.ca What makes a conference a success? Presentation. With one call, our goal will be to ensure that yours is an exceptional experience. We are the largest conference centre in eastern Ontario with 70 state-of-the-art meeting rooms designed for groups from 5 to 500. In addition, conference attendees can take advantage of our gourmet dining, extensive recreational facilities and end the day with a good night’s sleep in one of our 560 comfortable guest rooms. But don’t just take our word for it. We are one of only a handful of conference centres in Canada to receive IACC accreditation for our unparalleled professional services. We do it all, just give us a call.

It’s time to end your search and start your conference.

It’s time to give us a call.

10 | March/April 2009

Regi o n al P r o file Also new to the area is the $38-million dollar re-development of Table Rock Centre, owned and operated by The Niagara Parks Commission. Three new exclusive venues located close to Niagara Falls are ideal for private events, conferences and function space. Corporations can even have their corporate logos emblazoned on the Falls at night.

For smaller meetings of 50 people, local wineries in quaint Niagara-On-TheLake offer truly unique team building opportunities. Equipped with a visit and tour of the winery’s wine cellar, delegates break off into teams to create their very own custom wine blend. At the end of the session, each person proudly takes home their bottle of wine, adorned with a private label and with feedback from master winemakers. The event is a success every time.

HAMILTON Just a short trip from Niagara along the Queen Elizabeth Way is Hamilton, Ontario, the third largest city in Ontario.

“Hamilton is a city of value and meeting planners are always concerned with the bottom line. We offer value but still deliver

and are comparatively well-priced,” says Ted Fleet, Marketing and Media Relations co-ordinator with Tourism Hamilton.

Located at the head of Lake Ontario, there is excellent service to the city by GO Transit, VIA RAIL as well as Hamilton International Airport. Known as ‘Steel Tow n’, the cit y also has except ional museums, historical properties and an impressive art gallery that underwent a significant renovation in 2005.

Wit h it s lo c at ion on t he Ni ag a ra Escarpment, the city is divided between lower and upper sections and boasts impressive vistas and more than 100 waterfalls. Home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, Canada’s largest botan ical garden, the atrium has recently been renovated and now offers more event space inside.

Hamilton Place can seat more than 2,000 and is home to the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra and the Hamilton Convention Centre, just a short distance away, can accommodate groups requiring as much as 20,000 square feet of exhibition space.

With a booming arts scene and a vibrant theat re com mun it y, Ham ilton offers impressive options for meeting planners

“In recent years, Niagara Falls has gone from kitsch to class and offers topnotch meeting facilities and suites”

Where ordinary meetings become extraordinary

Where ordinary meetings become extraordinary

The Vintage Hotels collection, located in the heart of Niagara wine country: Condé Nast Traveler Gold List - 2005 to 2007 • CAA Four Diamond since 1991 Travel & Leisure Top 500 Hotels - 2007 & 2008 • Top 30 Spas: Spas of America - 2006 to 2008 Proud to welcome The Millcroft Inn & Spa: Ontario’s Finest Inns - 2008 WOW awards

Prince of Wales, 6 Picton St. Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, CA

Queen’s Landing, 155 Byron St. Pillar and Post, 48 John St. Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, CA Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, CA

The Millcroft Inn & Spa, 55 John St. Village of Alton - Caledon, ON, CA Corporate Meetings & Events | 11

Regi o n al P r o file

Photo courtesy of Image Ontario/ Daniel Taub

cruise available for brunch, lunch and dinner cruises.

With a vibrant arts scene and a number of popular summer and winter festivals, Ba r r ie a l s o h a s ple nt y of e xce l le nt hot e l space a nd b e d a nd b r e a k fa st accommodation. The city offers great value and distinctive experiences with close access to Toronto a nd Pea rson International Airport.

YORK REGION

BARRIE An hour north of Toronto is the booming city of Barrie, Ontario. Located on the shores of Lake Simcoe, Barrie has grown over the past decade into a cit y with an array of activities and con ference spaces. Horseshoe Resort is an ideal venue in winter or summer. After a day of meetings, conference goers can take a lesson and hit the hills for some night skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing.

In the summer months, golf and water sports are popular activities.

Kemp e n felt Con fere nce Ce nt re i s a 15 - a c r e me e t i ng a nd r e s or t- st yle lo c at io n w it h 1, 5 0 0 f e e t o f p r ivat e shoreline on Lake Simcoe. With a list of various buildings ranging in size and function, the Centre has 140 beds and 79 bedrooms, 10 meeting rooms and 10 seminar or break out rooms. Breakfast and lunch is served buffet-style on site while a seated dinner offers three entrée selections.

The Cent re also orga n i zes a team building challenge course with activities like ‘Floating Raft Rescue’ and ‘Spider Web Matrix’ that will surely bring lots of laughs while delegates learn practical problem solving and team dynamic skills.

Private beach bonfires can be arranged 12 | March/April 2009

and an airport shuttle is also available.

Due to its closeness to the water, meeting planners might want to take advantage of the 265 passenger paddle wheel boat

Photo courtesy of Image Ontario/ Daniel Taub

who want everything that a city can offer with added value.

A l so ju st a shor t d i st a nce f rom t he airport a nd posit ioned north of Metropolitan Toronto, York Region is a large territory that extends the southern shores of Lake Simcoe and is comprised of n i ne mu n ic ipa l it ie s: Au rora, Ea st Gw i l l i mbu r y, Ge org i n a, K i ng , Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan and Whitchurch-Stouffville.

Due to its recent development, there are a number of new hotels, conference centres and excellent golf tournament facilities. The venues are all equipped w it h st ate - of-t he a r t r e cept ion a nd meeting rooms and furnished with the highest standards.

Regi o n al P r o file the renovation, a number of event spaces have been integrated into the building including Frank, the new restaurant which can host corporate lunches and dinners.

The Royal Ontario Museum is also in its final stages of a $270-million dollar renovation and has re-opened to rave reviews. The restaurant, C5, can host an intimate retirement dinner or planners can organize a gala for 2,000 people in one of the ROM’s many galleries.

Of note is the newly renovated Allstream Centre which will soon open its doors to conferences and events. The completely “We really are a place where you can go from a big urban feel to a hike in the forest,” says Cathy Downard Parmer who does the marketing and tourism promotions for the region.

Known for its many diverse cultural a rea s, York Reg ion i s a l so home to wonderful historical properties like Eaton Hall and The Briars: ideal locations for corporate functions or special events, Eaton Hall is a throwback to the 1930s and was the former country residence of the Eaton Family. The chateau-inspired mansion is a great choice for meetings and special events amidst tradition and history.

Similarly, The Briars is a wonderful Ontario Inn offering meeting planners exceptional value in a relaxed, stress-free country-like setting. You can also build in spa treatments and team building experiences into meeting packages.

Along with the charming, traditional meeting options, York Region offers a number of golf course facilities that are all equipped to handle both large and small groups. Angus Glen Golf Club and Conference Centre offers world-class golf and award winning service all in one venue, year round. There are also a number of large banquet halls which offer great value during the week for the special events and meetings.

renovated old Automotive Building, the Allstream Centre is LEED certified and will certainly satisfy meeting planners eager to plan green events.

Julie Holmen, director of Corporate Sales for Tourism Toronto says, “even if you are scaling back and planning smaller events, private dinners and reward recognition events at some of the city’s best restaurants are a great option.”

Many restaurants now offer private dining areas or chef tables which bring an exclusive touch to any event.

Ontario

Canada

Plan to Meet in Our Great City!

Resting on the north shore of

Lake Superior, our world-class facilities, international airport, and ability to accommodate groups of any size, makes us the ideal meeting place for your next conference or event.

Toronto continues to be a hot spot for meeting planners. Well known are the convention centres and hotels that make up the downtown core. After undergoing an arts renaissance, there are a number of new options available for meeting planners.

The Art Gallery of Ontario has recently completed a $276-million renovation by famous architect, Frank Gehry. As part of

www.VisitThunderBay.com/convention Call 1-800-667-8386 today for your FREE Planner!

Contributing photos: Jennifer Hennek Copyright © 2005 North Coast Media

© Just For Laughs Festival

TORONTO

Corporate Meetings & Events | 13

s a g e V s La fea t u r e

No gamble for meeting planners

By Jamie Zachary

as

fea t u r e

They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Yet, if that’s the case, then someone’s let the secret out of the bag.

Billed as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas is turning heads within the meeting room as planners f rom a rou nd t he world discover t he industry’s worst kept secret.

That’s not surprising, however, when you consider the former railway town offers nearly 10 million square feet of meeting exh ibit space, 140,000 g uest rooms and unparalleled amenities.

“Where else can you go from New York City to Paris to Egypt to Rome in just four miles?” says Chris Meyer, vice-president of convention sales for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA).

Planners also know that events in Las Vegas will be successful as delegates can attend to business during the day as the entertainment options in Las Vegas are evening-based and do not take away from the business hours.

Situated in the Vegas Valley, a desert region in Nevada measuring nearly 1,000 kilometres, Las Vegas is easily accessible from virtually anywhere in the world. The city of some 1.8 million residents is served primarily by the McCarran International Airport, which sees more than 47 million passengers passing through its terminal annually.

Much of that traffic in recent years has originated from Canada, where there’s a reported 20 percent increase in airplane seats over last year, says Patrice Bell, business development manager for VoX International Inc., a Toronto-based representative of the LVCVA in Canada.

“Canada is the fastest growing market for Las Vegas, and much of that started when the Canadian currency started doing very well,” says Bell. “Today, while the currency was the impetus for this increase, it’s now thanks to room prices getting more affordable -they’re getting more bang for their buck -- as well as the focus on dining, shopping and entertainment.”

Adds Joni Peru, director of convention services at The Mirage: “The increased lift to Las Vegas and the attractive currency exchange has opened the door of opportunity to Canadian businesses who have not previously considered Las Vegas for their meetings and conventions.”

Once in Sin Cit y, there’s plent y to offer delegates both in and out of the boardroom.

Las Vegas -- which hosts an estimated 20,000 meetings, conventions and trade 8990-H&C_CM&E:Layout 1 12/1/08 shows annually -- offers nearly 10 million square feet of meeting and convention

space that hosts nearly 5.9 million delegates annually.

That includes, for example, the Las Vegas Convention Center, a state-of-theart multi-purpose facility that offers two 11:01 AM Page 1 million square feet of exhibit space, 144 meeting rooms and access to more than

Well looky here, th is planne for a triu r is prepar mphant d ing ay of succ She’ll eff essful me iciently u etings. se 10 0,000 sq flexible co . feet of nvention delegate space, ch s into the e ck her ir four-dia mond ho and make tel rooms, sure no d etail is le So what’s ft undone next for th . is heroic Dinner re planner? servation s. She’s ju it should st not sure be in a bo if oth, or in bed.

FOR�MORE�INFORMATION�VISIT�WWW�CAESARSWINDSOR�COM�OR�CALL��������������� Know Your Limit, Play Within It! All ages welcome in our Augustus Tower and convention complex. Must be 19 years of age or older to enter the casino and all other outlets. The Caesars brand and related trademarks are owned by Harrah’s License Company, LLC and its affiliated companies. Used with permission.

#8990 - Caesars Windsor - Hotel&Conv. Ad - CM&E Magazine - Nov. 25.08 - 4.625” x 7” - 4c - Insertion: Jan. 30.09

Corporate Meetings & Events | 15

fea t u r e 100,000 guest rooms within walking distance.

The iconic Mandalay Bay Events Center, meanwhile, is becoming as well-known for its meeting capabilities as it is as a host to headline concerts and world championship boxing events. The picturesque facility contains nearly 1.7 million square feet of meeting space, including 38,000 square feet of exhibit space and 26,000 square feet of meeting and function space.

“We’ve designed our 1.7 million square feet such t hat we ca n accom modate la rge, mediu m a nd sma l l prog ra m s simultaneously, while still allowing for an intimate experience,” says Richard Harper, vice-president of sales and marketing for Mandalay Bay. “We also are proud of our many unique venues around the resort that are accessible for small groups looking for an out-of-thebox experience.”

And if Las Vegas is known for anything, it’s that there is a place for every desire, and the meetings and events industry is no different. Hidden gems abound on the world-famous Vegas Strip and beyond for meeting planners and their delegates.

One of those lies in southeast Las Vegas

beneath a seemingly normal two-story house. Known as the Underground House, this unique 16,000-square-foot mansion sits 25 feet below the surface of the Las Vegas Valley.

Built originally by the founder of the California Perfume Co. -- known today as Avon, the home features a heated swimming pool, 15-foot waterfall and facilities to host up to 225 delegates.

Such facilities abound in the city -especially for smaller groups looking for a different type of meeting experience, says Bell.

In fact, despite the sheer volume of meeting and event space geared toward larger meetings, smaller groups are among the city’s best clients -- many of the meetings and events being hosted in Las Vegas average less than 500 delegates, says Bell.

At Mandalay Bay, small to mediumsized meetings make up 70 percent of the facility’s meeting and event business.

“Smaller meetings are the bread and butter of Mandalay Bay,” says Harper. “We have built our teams around this business with dedicated sales and service managers who only handle smaller programs. This oneto-one service ensures our guests are treated

You won’t believe what’s behind these walls...

• Over 60,000 square feet of flexible, completely renovated conference space. We have the services and facilities to make sure your meeting is a complete success.

• Our three distinct conference centres, are well-equipped meeting rooms with ISTN lines.

• New guest elevator to the Plaza Ballroom • Four restaurants, a lounge and a new wine bar • Indoor pool with two giant water slides, shops, beauty salon and new Zen Spa • Free wireless internet access in all 433 guestrooms and public areas • Doubletree by Hilton - Toronto Airport welcomes gatherings of 10 to 3,150 attendees and all your in-betweens.

For your next meeting or event, visit hiltondirect.com, call Hilton direct at 1-800-233-6161 or the hotel directly at 416-246-7900.

655 Dixon Road, Toronto, Ontario M9W 1J3 1-800-668-3656 416-244-1711 www.torontoairport.doubletreebyhilton.com Hilton HHonors® membership, earning Points & Miles®, and redemption of points are subject to HHonors Terms and Conditions. 2006 Hilton Hospitality Inc.

16 | March/April 2009

like they are the only group on the property.”

Outside of the meeting room, the possibilities are endless. Delegates can try their luck at any number of casinos on the Strip, such as the Wynn Las Vegas, MGM Grand or New York New York.

Or, take in the city’s entertainment scene, where there’s a show suited for every taste, such as Cirque du Soleil’s O at the Bellagio, Mama Mia! at Mandalay Bay, Bette Midler and Caesars Palace or funnyman Danny Gans at the Wynn.

The city’s culinary scene is also generating worldwide attention, with the likes of Wolfgang Puck, Emeril Lagasse and Michael Mina making their marks in the kitchen and beyond.

And with more than 55 golf courses in the area designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf and Arnold Palmer, there’s plenty to keep delegates busy on the links year-round.

“I think it’s the draw of the location that brings many meetings and events to Las Vegas,” says Bell. “It’s a good reward for people -- they’ll work hard to get it.”

The LVCVA notes that events held in the city typically experience an increase in attendance of approximately 15 percent.

That doesn’t mean Las Vegas, like every other destination, hasn’t been affected by the current economic conditions. Meyer notes there was a five percent decrease in the number of meeting and convention travellers to Las Vegas in 2008, and approximately 5.8 percent fewer events were held in 2008 compared with 2007.

Yet both Meyer and Peru also note the city is aggressively pursing new opportunities that will directly benefit the meeting and convention industry.

Las Vegas is expected to add approximately 13,000 new guest rooms in 2009 at new resorts including M Resort, CityCenter and Fountainebleau. The city is also expected to see its stable of hotel rooms jump by 40,000 by 2012, bringing its available occupancy to around 170,000 rooms.

Currently, the LVCVA estimates that Las Vegas has an occupancy rate of more than 90 percent, compared with 63 percent nationally.

“We understand that it is tough out there,” says Peru. “We are here to work toward a long-term relationship that will last long after our current economic climate begins to rebound.”

the

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Contact Swati.Ettrick@ihg.com or 1-877-904-MEET for groups/events with 10 or more guestrooms peak night! *Must be a Priority Club Meetings Rewards member. Member must request offer at time of booking. No retroactive points will be awarded for qualified meetings or group stays previously contracted. Subject to standard Priority Club Meeting Rewards program terms and conditions, which can be found at www.priorityclub.com/terms. For full terms and conditions, visit www.crowneplaza.com/meetings.©2009 InterContinental Hotels Group.

All rights reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and/or operated.

F E A TUR E

reconnect

Meeting changes head on

The experts pinpoint the trends for 2009

revenue source

healthy menu facebook 18  |  March/April 2009

F E A TUR E

Every year the meetings and events industry must adapt to changes.

Some years there is a monumental shift in the way in which the players are forced to respond, while in other years there are just minor alterations. But big or small, the changes still exist and those that adapt quickly are rewarded, while those that are slow to react risk being left behind.

This year is no different. The significant downturn in the economy has forced the companies, planners and the participants to come up with new ways to participate while watching the bottom line.

Corporate Meetings and Events magazine polled some of the industry’s leaders to see what the trends will be for 2009 and how the industry is expected to fare during these unprecedented times.

Rod Cameron, Executive Director, Convention Centres of Canada T he next few yea rs a re goi ng to b e challenging ones for Canada’s meetings industry, and in particular, its convention centres, given that meetings, conventions and exhibitions will be responding to the same kinds of pressures faced by the economy as a whole. But as with any situation, there will also be new opportunities for those who respond to the challenges and adapt to new conditions.

Overall, business will be down, as the kinds of events centres host tend to track the broader economy, but not all market segments will react the same way. The initial impacts will tend to come from corporate clients, who generally operate on shorter time frames and have already responded

to changing conditions and new budget constraints.

Association conventions are likely to be more stable as their meeting activities are typically a core function and revenue source, and in any event, they tend to operate on a longer planning cycle. However, even when events continue to take place, there will inevitably be impacts from reduced attendance and budgets.

But these impacts need to be balanced against some of the opportunities which will arise -- opportunities that will result in a stronger industry once the current crisis has passed into history -- and there are a number of these.

First, there will be an unprecedented need to reconnect with clients, not just to manage changes in programs and budgets but also to address the common need for building attendance and enhancing the value of the meeting for delegates. This is clearly an area where both parties either win or lose depending on the outcome and one where better long-term relationships can be built.

S e condly, cu r rent condit ion s w i l l encourage centres to diversify markets and revenue sources, and to reduce their dependency on any one business source.

In particular, the U.S. market has been an increasingly difficult one in recent years as a result of factors ranging from currency exchange shifts to U.S. passport issues and growing competition from U.S. facilities.

By r ev i sit i ng lo c a l b u si ne s s a nd exploring new opportunities on the broader international scene, centres will be putting themselves in a much better position to weather future downturns.

Finally, this crisis will give the meetings industry as a whole the best opportunity to demonstrate its critical position in the overall economy. With all eyes looking for anything that promises economic stimulation, the role our industry plays in generating direct economic benefits based on delegate spending will get a new focus.

But even more important will be the case we can make as to how we also create new business and investment opportunities, advance education and professional development, raise destination profile and facilitate new research and academic activities, particularly in a time when all these are critical to getting the economy back on track.

Our challenge as an industry is not just to rebuild revenues. It is also to restructure where required, and to make sure we emerge

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F E A TUR E in a stronger position for the future. Creating a better appreciation for what we do and the benefits we generate for the community as a whole will be a key part of this, and an opportunity we can’t miss.

Phil Ecclestone, Vice-President, Golden Planners Inc. T h e Eve nt M a n ag e r s a nd comp a ny management at GPI have noticed some changes to the business of third party professional event plan ning and our relat ion sh ips w it h cl ient s a nd t hei r event programs.

In no specific order, the key ones are: Shorter lead times: Clients and event organizers are waiting longer and making decisions closer to the time that they want to hold their event in order to start the planning process.

We believe this is caused by a number of factors, primarily budgetary (can they afford to hold the event along with the potential costs associated with not reaching targets?) and scarcity of resources on their end which requires them to tackle other projects first as they have an immediate priority (possibly because of less human resources available for more responsibilities). I would also suggest that there may be some consideration as

20  |  March/April 2009

WTCC Hands_CM&E_0209.indd 1

to whether their intended participants can afford to attend which impacts back on their fiscal concerns.

Diminished attendance: Events will still happen but fewer people will attend compared with previous years. This will be as a result of corporate decisions limiting the number of staff that can attend one particular event or limits on the overall professional development spend.

As a response, watch out for more bundled packages with discounts based on the number of attendees from a given organization.

Future projects will go on hold: In previous economic difficulties we found that it was not so much this year's project that was cancelled, but the one two or three years down the road to avoid liability by signing contracts and later cancelling. Because of the contractual obligations, it is often the case that cancellation costs cannot be justified for any return, so the project already under way will continue.

More hotel deals: There will be more "deals" from hotels, but they will hold hard to existing contracts. In the third party sector of the business, this will mean that we will have to spend time negotiating between clients who have existing contracts and see "deals" for lower rates offered at the time of their event by

hotels that are trying to fill space and those hotels/venues. At the same time, attrition will be strictly adhered to, unless it would impact on future business in the near term.

More renovations: There will be more renovations at properties that have cash reserves as they see now as the time to undertake the renovation without as much impact on lost business.

Gr e at e r s c r ut i ny o n e ve nt c o s t s: Diminished budgets will mean additional questioning about good deals. The cost of food and beverage in hotels will become an issue and a compromise will have to be found concerning the use of space and the costs of F&B which are much higher at hotels and convention centres than at other venues. This will become more of an issue with government clients who have to adhere to treasury board guidelines which limit the amount that can be spent per person on an individual meal that is considerably lower than banquet pricing at most properties. This austerity might move to the travel and accommodation policies of corporations, having a huge impact on the industry.

Healthy menu choices: Clients and participants are looking more and more for

2/25/2009 8:55:02 AM

F E A TUR E food choices that are part of a healthy lifestyle (not just because of dietary restrictions). Some venues have some movement in this area, but not enough as it is hard to justify the costs associated with the heart smart menu when it doesn't necessarily have the luxurious flavor that comes with the fat.

Tom Price, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing at White Oaks Conference Resort As is the case with most sectors of our economy, technology is redefining how we do business and the meeting and conference sector is no exception.

However, it appears that this evolution is being driven more by the desire of suppliers to generate revenue, than by the needs of either meeting planners or conference attendees.

The planning process has always involved a very diverse set of activities. The process is made even more complex by the necessity to collaborate and problem solve with a broad range of individuals, both within the planning organization and with suppliers of goods and services.

This being said, historically the “low tech” approach has worked very well, and although we can all tell stories about a “ballroom full of people being soaked because the sprinklers

went off” or “being sick from an out break of E. coli”, for the most part the process has generated amazing results.

The “high tech” approach has not yet taken off as it relates to redefining the meeting planning process. Clearly, advances on the web such as search tools like “Google”, and collaboration tools like “facebook” or “linkedin” play their part. Electronic request for proposal tools like “Meetingseasy” and virtual meeting tools like “gotomeeting” are a step in the right direction.

The growing number of applications available through download sites, like Apple’s “app store” provide some solutions, but they typically do not integrate easily with the existing tools available to planners. Some planners have turned to large and expensive enterprise meeting planning systems, which are less than flexible and fairly old school in their design.

O ve r a l l ve r y f e w c o m p a n i e s o r organizations are trying to “connect the dots” between the old school and new school. This is to say that suppliers are all racing to build tools that are specific to certain areas of the meeting planning process, without standing back and asking “how does my new tool connect into the existing planning process or to other web tools that already exist?”

Research has already been undertaken to define the scope of opportunity set to explode in the area of the on-line group and meetings market. Two studies of note would be “Groups and Meetings: Market Opportunity Redefined by PhoCusWright Inc and Hotel Electronic Distribution Network Association’s (HEDNA) white paper written by the Solutionz group. Defining the scope and opportunity is the first step in attracting investment that could support an overall coordinated effort.

Two other sources of information on the topic are Corbin Ball at http://www. corbinball.com and James Spellos at http:// meeting-u.com. Both provide a host of related information and are the best in the industry at “connecting the dots” from the old school to the new school of meeting planning.

The challenge might be to breakdown the meeting planning process into stages and to organize the available web tools accordi ng to wh at t he pla n ner i s trying to accomplish at each stage. The technology gap is not likely to be filled by any one supplier, organization or industry association, but rather by a cooperative effort put forth by a crosssection of the industry.

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Corporate Meetings12/16/08 & Events | 21PM 4:08:04

Ne w & I mp r o ve d

Hyatt Regency Toronto on King

A chic new addition to Toronto’s Entertainment District

R

Remember the family-style Holiday Inn on King hotel? Well, it’s been transformed into the 394-guest room and suite Hyatt Regency Toronto on King, an urban chic destination in the hear t of Toronto’s pulsating entertainment district!

The new Regency Toronto on King is now the second Hyatt in the city, which makes Toronto the only centre in North America to offer two Hyatt hotels.

Designed by Hirschberg Design Group of Toronto, the revitalized hotel balances large-scale amenities with boutique-style sensibilities. It offers a coolly corporate destination for the business traveler; an urban oasis for tourists to the city; and a hip, cool addition to the entertainment district with immediate access to more than 150 restaurants, bars, clubs and theatres.

The hotel’s transformation first becomes apparent in its lobby, with a spectacular floating fireplace surrounded by a doubleglass water wall that cascades from the raised ceiling. The fireplace is framed by dark African Makassar wood that flows along the ceiling and unites the 3 -pod Hyatt reception desks into the overall lobby design. A stylized semi-circular bar and lounge area located by the new side entrance is the perfect spot for gatherings and conversation.

At the bottom of the staircase leading to the concourse level, a second water feature/ reflective pool offers lounge-style, white leather seating for guests and visitors to the adjacent conference centre.

The hotel offers 25,0 0 0 square feet of flexible meeting space including the Regency and King Ballrooms, with 2,000 square feet of shared foyer space, seven break-out rooms and boardrooms, a stateof-the-art executive boardroom, full-service business centre, high-speed wired/wireless internet in all meeting rooms and on-site audio-visual professionals.

On the same level as the conference centre, you’ll find the hotel’s sleek and 22 | March/April 2009

sophisticated bar, constructed of dark brown granite and faced with Persian onyx.

Adjacent to the bar is the hotel’s ultra-chic new 170-seat restaurant -- King Street Social, which is highlighted by an impressive open kitchen serving regionally inspired cuisine and multi-cultural menu options.

Just beyond the kitchen is the dramatic, red-draped entranceway into a private screening room and two private dining rooms, offering meeting participants a “meet and eat” option.

Guest rooms in the new Hyatt have also been substantially transformed. Each guest room now exudes sophistication and style.

The furnishings and decor are avant-garde and sexy with shades of grey, white and red accents. Most guest rooms offer 42" flat screen televisions, multi-media interface Jackboxes, iHome docking stations, Hyatt's signature Grand Bed, and spa-inspired washrooms including massaging shower heads and luxurious Portico bath amenities.

The chic new 9th Floor Regency VIP Lounge offers a contemporary and SoBe style, replete with stunning 2,500 square fo ot o u tdo or p a tio and an op e n air

fireplace. The exclusive lounge includes a self-service buffet, three 42” LG monitors and private concierge.

The 17th Floor outdoor freshwater pool is a must-see, with its unsurpassable northeast and southeast views of the city. Teak wood decking on the upper level is complemented

by Canadian paved stone on the lower level and two beautiful outdoor fire pits.

And for guests who don’t want to miss a workout, the spacious 24-hour Hyatt StayFit Gym offers a spectacular view of the city.

It is fully equipped with state-of-the art cardiovascular equipment, integrated LCD screens, a full selection of free weights and other fitness essentials. Start your day with an invigorating workout... or end your day relaxing in the sauna.

It’s clear that the HDG-designed Hyatt Regency Toronto on King is the epitome of urban chic, as appealing to its corporate clients as it is to the surrounding area’s hip clientele!

Martin Hirschberg, President of Hirschberg Design Group Inc.

SPR_Profiles_Jake

4/20/07

11:37 AM

Page 2

plaza profiles Jake Leinenkugel

President Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Co.

“It’s a tremendous resort across the board.

The only thing missing is the Leinie’s, so we bring our own.”

Jake Leinenkugel rewards his “all-Leinie team” – 130 of the top Leinenkugel distributors – with a trip to The Scottsdale Plaza Resort every year. And after 8+ years, he couldn’t imagine going anywhere else. As he says, “They’re the friendliest and most accommodating group of folks I’ve met in my 50+ years. They know us so well, they can almost read our minds. It feels like your own little oasis – homey and relaxing. We used to plan off-site activities, but our people would rather just hang at The Plaza. Everything’s right here. The setting, the food, the service – it’s just a delight to be here.”

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AV Insight

Microphones: The first link in the audio chain

By Ralph Niekamp

A

A crucial aspect of any meeting or event is audio intelligibility. Delegates need to be able to hear the message and exchange ideas. While there are many different types of audio systems, microphones are the first important component. If the proper microphone is not selected, the performance of all other audio components will be compromised.

What microphone is best depends on the application. The most commonly used microphone is the dynamic, cardiod microphone. These microphones are relatively affordable and durable. The tight “cardiod” pickup pattern only picks up sound that is directly in front of the microphone and not the ambient room noise.

A lavaliere microphone is appropriate for a presenter that needs to have their hands fre e and a w irele s s lavaliere microphone enables them to walk around the stage. These also require care during set up. The presenter needs to understand the appropriate attire and microphone placement so that the microphone can pick up the presenter’s voice effectively and not produce distracting noises.

A lavaliere microphone sho uld b e placed directly under the chin but not so close that it can be bumped by the person’s movements. As the microphone i s p ointin g u p, fe e db a ck l o o p s w it h house sound system speakers directly above the microphone can be created.

A sound check is essential so that any problem areas are identified before the presentation.

Condenser podium microphones can be an excellent choice when a podium is being used as the focus of the presentation. These unobtrusive microphones generally have a small microphone on a 12” to 18” gooseneck, mounted to the podium. This feature makes a condenser podium microphone a good choice when image magnification or photography will be part of the event.

24 | March/April 2009

While they are available in var ying pickup patterns, they generally have a much larger pick up area than a cardiod dynamic microphone and a wider frequency response. A presenter still needs to face toward the microphone but they can move their head side-to-side and still have their voice reproduced evenly. The wider pick-up pattern also means that different presenters do not have to adjust the microphone as they reach the podium.

Pre s s ure zone microphone s (PZM) are commonly used in boardroom videoconferencing and teleconferencing applications. These flat microphones are placed on a table, picking up any sound waves that contact the table surface. This enables one streamline microphone to capture the conversations around a table.

Conference microphone systems are popular. They consist of a conference chair console and multiple delegate stations.

They all have a condenser microphone and gooseneck mounted to the chair console and delegate stations. The console and stations have a built in loud speaker and volume control. When a station’s microphone is activated, the internal station’s speaker

is muted, to control feedback. Many systems offer additional features such as a red light to signal that the microphone is active, headphone outputs, integration with simultaneous interpretation systems, cough muting, and voting functions.

A conference microphone system allows the conference chair (or assistant) to control all of the microphones. Many of the conference chair consoles utilize touch screen technology with the touch screen set up to mirror the set up of the room, while some conference microphone systems include computer software that control many of the system operations and allow for expansion in the number of delegate stations.

Consult your AV professional before your next event and ensure that your microphone system will enable all of your participants to take home the message.

Ralph Niekamp, Inland AV Saskatoon General Manager addresses audiovisual considerations important to event planners.

As a branch manager, Niekamp brings a unique perspective as he is involved in both permanent systems design and integration and AV rentals applications.

- Best Western Director of Hotel Operations Ottawa, Ontario

The world’s largest hotel chain does business everywhere you do.

At every Best Western®, your clients will discover amenities that business travelers want.

We offer a collection of standard amenities and services including free high-speed Internet*, hot or continental breakfast at all locations* and in room coffee/tea. With our rewards program, “Best Western RewardsSM,” it is easy to earn points toward rewards, and with 4,000* locations worldwide, chances are there’s a Best Western right next to where your business client needs to be.

www.bestwestern.com | 1.800.WESTERN® ALBERTA Calgary Best Western Village Park Inn 888-774-7716 Hinton Best Western White Wolf Inn 800-220-7870 Leduc Best Western Denham Inn & Suites 800-661-3327 Lethbridge Best Western Heidelberg Inn 800-791-8488 BRITISH COLUMBIA Courtenay Best Western The Westerly Hotel 800-668-7797 Kamloops Best Western Kamloops 800-665-6674 Quesnel Best Western Tower Inn 800-663-2009 Tofino Best Western Tin Wis Resort Lodge 800-661-9995

Vancouver Best Western Chateau Granville 800-663-0575 Best Western Sands 800-661-7887 Vancouver Airport Area (Richmond) Best Western Richmond Hotel & Convention Centre 800-663-0299 MANITOBA Winnipeg Best Western Pembina Inn & Suites 877-269-8811 NEW BRUNSWICK Edmundston Best Western Edmundston Hotel 888-735-0001 Moncton Best Western Moncton 888-887-8788 NOVA SCOTIA Dartmouth Best Western Dartmouth Hotel & Suites 800-780-7234

Truro Best Western Glengarry Hotel 800-567-4276 ONTARIO Brantford Best Western Brant Park Inn & Conference Centre 877-341-1234 Dryden Best Western Motor Inn 888-394-2378 Jordan Best Western Beacon Harbourside Inn & Conference Centre 888-823-2266 Kingston Best Western Fireside Inn 800-567-8800 Midland Best Western Highland Inn & Conference Centre 800-461-4265 Orillia Best Western Mariposa Inn & Conference Centre 800-461-0283

THE WORLD’S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN.® Ottawa Best Western Macies Hotel 800-268-5531 Best Western Victoria Park Suites 800-465-7275 Stratford Best Western The Parlour Historic Inn & Suites 877-728-4036 Toronto Best Western Roehampton Hotel 800-387-8899 Best Western Travel Inn Toronto Airport 866-459-1234 Waterloo (St. Jacob’s Area) Best Western St. Jacobs Country Inn 800-972-5371 QUEBEC Montreal Best Western Europa Downtown 800-361-3000

*Free high-speed Internet access in North America only. High-speed Internet access may not necessarily be available in all guest rooms or public areas. *Either continental OR hot breakfast available (many complimentary). *Numbers are approximate and can vary. Best Western Rewards is formerly known as Gold Crown Club® International. See www.BestWesternRewards.com for additional terms. Each Best Western® hotel is independently owned and operated. Best Western and the Best Western marks are service marks or registered service marks of Best Western International, Inc. ©2009 Best Western International, Inc. All rights reserved.

c h e f ' s s p ot l i g h t

Executive Chef Geoffrey Morden Follows the culinary trail back to where it all began

By Habeeb Salloum

C

Called “Canada's Tradition of Grandeur”, the Fairmont Château Laurier, next door to Canada’s Parliament Buildings, with its towers and copper roofs, is without question, one of the top emblems of Ottawa.

An eye-catching limestone structure with turrets and masonry reminding an onlooker of a French château, it fits harmoniously in the parliamentary scene. Enhancing the Château’s magnificent appeal is the food offered by its restaurants under the eye of its Executive Chef, Geoffrey Morden.

After studying at the esteemed classical institution, The Stratford Chefs School of Ontario, Chef Morden began his culinary career in 1993 at the Château Laurier, holding progressive positions in the kitchens in the hotel. He then worked his way up in other Fairmont hotels, ending up in February 2008 as Executive Chef, back where he started at the Fairmont Château Laurier.

From among the positions he held during his Fairmont culinary odyssey were: Executive Sous Chef and Executive Chef at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Executive Chef at The Fairmont Winnipeg.

This 38 year-old chef holds a Certificate of Advance Sommelier from Algonquin College and is an active member of the Chaine Des Rotiseurs, an international gastronomic society devoted to promoting fine dining.

He has a Regional Ottawa Culinary Gold Medal Salon, and when he was Executive Sous Chef at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, he was recognized as ‘Hotel Leader of the Year’ in 2002.

Today, Chef Morden oversees the various aspects for all food outlets at the Fairmont Château Laurier, which include four restaurants, 12 meeting rooms that host meetings and four ballrooms. Under his supervision 75 chefs and stewards prepare food for all these outlets.

Chef Morden has prepared menus for many group functions such as IBM, Bayer, Pfizer, Shell, Monsanto and the Royal Bank of Canada. From among the important menus for corporate groups and conferences: ‘State Prime Ministers Dinner’, welcoming the Prime Minister of France; and ‘Highlighting the finest in Canadian Products’ makes Chef Morden proud.

“We had a group retreat one year at the ‘Chateau Lake Louise’ where the whole weekend was themed after the movie ‘The Shining’. Guest rooms were themed accordingly and each course at their Gala dinner had a specific ‘Shining’ touch right down to hand-made chocolate axes we used to garnish the dessert.”

Always trying to please his clients, Chef Morden tailors menus to the client’s request, restrictions and budget. His staff plates the hot items just prior to them being served, using the same techniques used in the hotel restaurant’s kitchens but on a much larger scale. “Uniqueness, quality, taste and presentation are all key elements to any successful group menu.”

Chef Morden always tries if possible to use local ingredients in his menus. Expressing his ideas about preparing his dishes, “Currently, I truly enjoy using Canadian Fish and Seafood,” adding that he enjoys using spices and spice mixtures which are more typical of East Asian or Indian Cuisine.”

Chef Morden constantly thinks of creative ideas, while interacting with some outstanding people.

“We work in a world-class hotel and we have the opportunity to serve a wide variety of guests including dignitaries, entertainers and political leaders. No day is the same. There are always new challenges, new faces, new ingredients, new clients and new opportunities. Everyday is a new adventure!”

“No day is the same. There are always new challenges, new faces, new ingredients, new clients and new opportunities. Everyday is a new adventure!”

26 | March/April 2009

The World’s Most Global Hotel Company From overnight trips to extended stays. For value-minded visits and executive travel. For business meetings, group events and conventions. Wherever you go, whatever the reason, we’ve got the perfect place for you to stay with more than 146 hotels across Canada and a great Priority Club® Meeting Rewards Loyalty Program too.* And with the global Relaunch of our Holiday Inn® and Holiday Inn Express® brands currently underway, there’s even more reason to choose IHG.

www.ihg.com

Do you live an InterContinental life?TM

The Place to Meet

Redefines luxury with authentic experiences allowing both savvy travellers and meeting planners to immerse themselves in the destinations.

The Place to Meet for business or leisure. Your upscale hotel partner for making successful meetings happen and indulging in relaxation at the end of the day.

Delivers peace, renewal and the refreshing uniqueness of a boutique hotel. There’s everything you’d expect including casual dining and free high-speed internet access.

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Consider Us Home.®

Offers full-service amenities such as well-run meeting facilities, free high speed internet access, restaurants, well-appointed guest rooms and more. Dependability, Friendly Service and Excellent Value.

Helping travellers, group and meeting planners Stay Smart® with a good night’s sleep at a great rate. Plus the Express Start® Breakfast Bar now features hot entrees.

Spacious all-suite accommodations that are perfect for small meetings, business, relocation and vacations. Complete with complimentary breakfast buffet, business centres and more.

Makes events, meetings and extended stays comfortably affordable with spacious suites complete with full kitchen, free laundry and on-site convenience store.

1-800-HOLIDAY www.holidayinn.com

1-800-HOLIDAY www.hiexpress.com

1-800-238-8000 www.staybridge.com

1-888-CANDLEWOOD www.candlewoodsuites.com

Contact Swati.Ettrick@ihg.com or 1-877-904-MEET for groups/events with 10 or more guestrooms peak night! *Must be a Priority Club Meeting Rewards member and register member number in advance. Must request offer and record member number in the hotel sales contract at time of booking.Qualified meetings consist of 10 or more guest rooms within your group block occupied for at least one night of the meeting. Excluded meeting charges include any associated taxes, gratuities and service fees; any outside vendor/supplier charges; and any attendee incidentals or other expenses. Log onto priorityclub.com/meetingrewards for qualified meeting information for all of the Priority Club Rewards Family of Brands hotels. For complete Terms and Conditions,visit priorityclub.com/terms. ©2009 InterContinental Hotels Group. All rights reserved. Most hotels are independently owned and/or operated.

F ea t u r e

Canada’s got game

Rolling the dice at the country’s hot spots

N

Not quite the glitz of Las Vegas and unable to match the opulence of Monte Carlo, Canada is nonetheless quietly establishing a reputation for itself as a gamblers’ paradise.

With a number of first-class casinos, top racetracks and a string of high end hotels with gaming facilities, Canadians can now roll the dice in their own backyard and come up winners.

Si nce t he Gover n ment of O nt a r io enacted the Ontario Casino Corporation Act in late 1993, which named Windsor, Ontario, as the host community for the province's first pilot commercial casino, the province has been at the forefront of gambling operations in Canada.

Now some 11 cities across the province -from Windsor and Sault St. Marie to Kenora and Gananoque -- as well as the tourist trap of Niagara Falls, all boast casinos. Slot machines have also been introduced at the province’s racetracks quickly bringing horseracing into the 21st century.

No longer just “The Honeymoon Capital,” Niagara Falls boasts two first-class gambling facilities with Fort Erie racetrack also within driving distance, giving ample opportunities to visitors and residents looking to flirt with Lady Luck.

O verlook i ng t he fa l l s i n Niaga ra, Fallsview Casino Resort is one of the l a r g e s t g a m i n g r e s o r t f a c i l it i e s i n Canada. Opened at a cost of $1 billion in mid-2004, Fallsview offers a worldclass casino with more than 3,000 slot m ac h i ne s, 130 ga m i ng t able s a nd a poker room. The resort also features a 374-room luxury hotel, full service spa and fitness centre, the 1,500-seat Avalon Theatre and some 30,000 square feet of meeting and convention space.

C los e by i s C a si no Ni aga ra, w it h more than 1,700 slot and video poker machines, 60 gaming tables, 12 poker tables and three restaurants and bars.

28 | March/April 2009

Further west, Windsor blasted itself back into the gaming spotlight last year with the opening of the newly-renovated Caesars Windsor.

On the Canadian side of the Detroit River the recently completed $439-million expansion and renovation has dramatically increased the size of the Windsor casinoresort, which now covers more than four hectares (10 acres).

The complex features two four-diamond hotel towers with incredible riverfront views, several restaurants, 100,000 square feet of convention space, a 5,000-seat theatre showcasing headline entertainment and nonstop gaming action spread over two floors.

“This is a tremendous property. It is not just the largest casino-resort in the DetroitWindsor market, it is the largest casino-resort in Canada,” Kevin Laforet, president and chief executive of Caesars Windsor, said recently. “Combining this great facility with the world-renowned Caesars name makes Caesars Windsor a premier destination for world-class entertainment and getaways.”

If thundering hooves is more to your liking then look no further than the Woodbine Entertainment Group, the largest horseracing operator in Canada.

WEG operates two racetracks in Ontario.

Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto hosts both standardbred and thoroughbred racing and is the only track in North America that can offer both types of racing on the same day. Meanwhile, Mohawk Racetrack in Campbellville hosts summer standardbred racing from May through to October.

Both of these racetracks also house slot machines managed by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Commission.

The company also operates extensive off-track wagering operations through its “Champions” teletheatre network and its own facilities which include WEGZ Stadium Bar in Vaughan, Turf Lounge in downtown

Toronto and Greenwood in the Beach area of Toronto. It also broadcasts its standardbred and thoroughbred televised racing from Woodbine and Mohawk to wagering operations owned by other racetracks in Canada and the United States.

Operating 24-hours a day, seven days a week since July 1996, Casino Rama is Ontario's only First Nation's commercial casino. The Casino offers a complete entertainment experience with more than 2,500 slot machines, over 110 gaming tables, 10 unique restaurants, a world-class 5,000 seat Entertainment Centre and a 300-room all-suite, full-service hotel, featuring spa and health club facilities. Casino Rama is operated by Penn National Gaming Inc. In western Canada, Saskatchewan's top tourism draw is Casino Regina which offers some 800 slot machines and 35 table games, including Blackjack, Baccarat, Craps, Roulette, Caribbean Stud Poker, Red Dog and Three Card Poker.

The casi no is operated by t he Saskatchewan Gaming Corp which also operates Casino Moose Jaw. The casino, which is located in the historic Union Train Station, features three annual poker tournaments boasting some of the biggest prize pools in Canada, attracting players throughout North America.

When you are looking for more than just trying your luck, visitors can also take in topnotch entertainment. Its Vegas-style Show Lounge is home to world-class music, comedy and magic, and the Last Spike Restaurant provides a relaxed dining atmosphere.

“The Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation continues to play a vital role in the local and provincial economy,” Bill Hutchinson, Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation, said recently. “Its success is great news for our province, particularly as all SGC’s profits benefit the people of Saskatchewan.”

FINALLY ...

Business Meets Pleasure

Overlooking the majestic Niagara Falls, our NEW 550-square foot Executive Boardroom is truly a room with a view. With a 180o panoramic view through floor-to-ceiling windows, no other boardroom brings you closer to the mighty cataracts.

1-888-875-4477 • www.niagarafallsmarriott.com/cme

CM&E Marketplace marriott niagara falls fallsview & spa - see ad on page 29

KOR100_ThunderBayTourism-MP.pdf

NIAGARA FALLS FALLSVIEW & SPA

8/12/08

3:24:42 PM

Inspire your group with a spectacular view and award-winning hospitality.

Featuring over 10,000 sq. ft. of Fallsview meeting and banquet space, luxurious Fallsview accommodations and creative banquet selections. Located at the Brink of the Horseshoe Falls and within walking distance to famous Niagara Attractions - the Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview & Spa offers Fallsview meeting facilities that boast a breathtaking view of Niagara Falls. Book your next conference or convention at the Marriott Niagara Falls Fallsview Hotel & Spa for an event to remember. (888) 475-4477 www.fallsviewmeetings.ca

Nav canada - see ad on page 10 Southeastern Ontario’s largest conference centre is completely self contained and offers 50 state-of-the-art, configurable meeting rooms totaling 50,000 sq. ft. Largest room 9,600 sq. ft. and seats 875. 560 fully-equipped guest rooms make you forget you’re away from home. Mid-19th century Stone House perfect for retreats. Full dining and recreation facilities keep attendees motivated. Convenient to Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, NY; secluded on 70 acres of pristine parkland. IACC certified. End your search. Start your conference.

Toll: (877) 832-6416 email: conference@navcanada.ca Website: www.conference.navcanada.ca

the scottsdale plaza resort - see ad on page 23 The Scottsdale Plaza Resort This award-winning resort features 404 well-appointed guest accommodations (including180 suites), five pools, tennis and health club on 40 lushly landscaped acres in the heart of Scottsdale and offers more than 30,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space including a tiered amphitheater, two boardrooms and an outdoor-tented pavilion. The in-house conference planning team, Plaza Planners, can take care of all your group’s needs including off-site events, transportation, teambuilding and more.

1-800-306-0059. email: meet@scottsdaleplaza.com. www.scottsdaleplaza.com.

sheraton centre toronto - see ad on Outside back cover In the heart of downtown, the Four Diamond Sheraton Centre Toronto features nearly 100,000 sq ft of fully wired and Wi-Fi accessible function space, a renovated Club Lounge with upgraded amenities and expansive views of the city, 1,377 (SM) guest rooms with the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed and the city’s largest indoor/outdoor heated pool for relaxing after a long day. Please visit us at sheraton.com/centretoronto or call 1-800-325-3535 for more information.

city of thunder bay - see ad on page 13 Discover Thunder Bay, Ontario - a natural destination for meetings and conventions.

Serving as Northwestern Ontario's regional capital, Thunder Bay is the hub for business, transportation, travel, and community health services, and boasts an incredible selection of traditional and full-service hotels and facilities to meet your every need.

Let us assist you in planning your next meeting or convention!

Call Tourism Thunder Bay at 1-800-667-8386, or visit www.visitthunderbay.com/convention today.

Best Western................................................................................................................25

Minto Suite Hotel..........................................................................................................7

Caesars Windsor .....................................................................................................15

Nav Canada...............................................................................................................10

Casino Regina ............................................................................................................7

Northlands.....................................................................................Inside Back Cover

City of Thunder Bay...................................................................................................13

Sheraton Center Toronto......................................................Outside Back Cover

Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts............................................................................17

Sheraton Falls View Hotel and Conference Center .......................................4

Double Tree.................................................................................................................16

The Scottsdale Plaza Resort .................................................................................23

Holiday Inn................................................................................... Inside Front Cover

Vintage Hotels ...........................................................................................................11

Inland Audio Visual .................................................................................................19

Woodbine Entertainment Group..........................................................................21

Intercontinental Hotels Group................................................................................27

WTCC Halifax..............................................................................................................20

Marriot Niagara Falls...............................................................................................29 30 | March/April 2009

PROJECT

EVOLUTION.09

Opening late 2009 Northlands will add 200,000 sq. ft. of new trade and consumer show space plus the ultimate in conference, meeting and catering facilities providing you with a total of over 500,000 sq. ft. of contiguous show space. Any event, any time, we are ready for your business.

Trent Evans, Senior Manager-Sales, at (780) 471.7128 or tevans@northlands.com Heather Peckitt, Conference Sales Manager, at (780) 471.7327 or hpeckitt@northlands.com

northlands.com

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fea t u r e

36 | March/April 2009

fea t u r e

March/April 2009

Canada's Premier Publication for Corporate Meeting & Event Organizers

Meeting Trends

PM 40063056

Industry’s players brace for change

Inside:

Discovering Ontario Betting on Vegas Gaming in canadas venues Corporate Meetings & Events | 37