Corporate Meetings & Events May 2009

May/June 2009

Canada's Premier Publication for Corporate Meeting & Event Organizers

The first Impression PM 40063056

Selecting the right venue

Inside:

Canada's convention centres Defining themes

On your next meeting

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contents FEATURES 8 OPEN THE DOORS TO SUCCESS

How to select the right venue for your next meeting or event

By Rachel Naud

18

ENTERING UNCHARTERED WATERS

Canada’s convention centres play a key role in recovery

By Rod Cameron

28

GET TO THE POINT

A well-defined theme is a must in planning meetings

By Scott Anderson

40

Canadian Gaming summit

Caesars Windsor the perfect host

REGIONAL PROFILES 12 ALBERTA

Wide open choices

By Jamie Zachary

34

ORLANDO

It’s a small world after all

By Stephen Forest

DEPARTMENTS 5 EDITOR’S NOTE 6

INDUSTRY NEWS

42

CHEF’S SPOTLIGHT

Executive Chef Joan Monfaredi serves Toronto a culinary touch

By Habeeb Salloum

44

AV INSIGHT

Lighting sets the mood

By Ralph Niekamp

Corporate Meetings & Events | 3

- 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.

editor's note

Corporate Meetings & Events Volume 10 Number 3

Publisher

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Editor

Scott Anderson

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Location, location, location (and theme)

I

If the golden rule in real estate is “location, location, location”, then the hard and fast rule in meeting planning must be “location and theme.” Although not as catchy, without these two key elements your meeting is a flop even before the first presenter hits the stage.

Meeting participants are looking for more than just four walls in a downtown hotel and a cheesy opening joke. They want to be entertained, they want to be empowered and they want to participate. They also want to have fun.

“The venue sets the tone for the entire event. It is the very first impression the attendees get when they walk through the door. The first thing they’re going to notice is the venue’s appearance, amenities and tone,” writes Rachel Naud in the cover piece on selecting venues. “If the venue is stimulating, fun and vibrant, the hours will pass by quickly and successfully.”

And if location is a must -- geographically speaking -- this issue features two of the more exciting meeting spots in North America. Jamie Zachary spotlights all that the western Canadian province of Alberta has to offer, while Stephen Forest takes us on a magical tour of Orlando, Florida.

Following close on the heels of choosing the right venue, comes selecting the right theme. Without the ideal theme, or any theme at all, minutes will seem like hours and your message will go unheard.

From murder mysteries to the Amazing Race, meetings are being taken out of the boardroom and onto the streets with rave reviews.

“A theme gives you a focal point. A theme can be a rallying cry. A theme, especially if it is on target, can really resonate with employees at all levels. It can be a quick communication of the big goal and say what you want to achieve in a colorful or entertaining way,” says Jerry Busche, a Florida-based meeting specialist.

Alberta, Orlando, venues and themes. We might be on to something here!

Scott Anderson Editor

Corporate Meetings & Events | 5

industrynews

Photo courtesy of Quebec City Convention Centre

GDP reached $30.7 billion, up 7.3 percent over 2007. Total tourism revenue reached $74.9 billion in 2008, up 5.8 percent, while all governments’ revenue generated by tourism reached $22.2 billion, up 5.7 percent.

While the Canadian tourism industry is struggling in the face of fierce international competition from up and coming destinations, CTC has recognized the challenge and has worked aggressively to reposition its tourism brand internationally. That brand has now gained traction.

QUEBEC CITY CONVENTION CENTRE IS BOMA BEST

The Québec City Convention Centre received the BOMA BEST Level 3 certification.

Buildings at this level of certification render higher performance and reflect management’s commitment to demonstrate excellence in their administration.

“We are very proud to have obtained BOMA BEST Level 3 certification. It rewards our efforts and our team’s work throughout the years to reduce the centre’s environmental footprint” says Marc Poirier, Director of building management and event support.

BOMA BEST is the next evolution of BOMA Canada's Go Green program. BEST stands for Building Environmental Standards, and represents the direction of the commercial real estate industry in Canada and BOMA Canada's role in providing the mechanisms for common practices across the industry.

CANADIAN TOURISM COMMISSION 2008 ANNUAL REPORT Documenting a year that saw Canada’s tourism brand win international kudos, Minister of Industry Tony Clement recently tabled the 2008 Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) Annual Report in Parliament.

Over the last five years the Canadian tourism sector outperformed the overall Canadian economy. In fact, tourism activity in Canada represents 2 percent of Canada’s overall GDP, making tourism a significant economic sector in Canada with a GDP equivalent to agriculture, fishing, forestry and hunting combined.

In 2008, tourism’s contribution to Canadian 6 | May/June 2009

2008 Highlights • In just two years, Canada jumped from the world’s 12th most respected country brand to No. 2 spot according to FutureBrand’s Country Brand Index for 2008.

• The influential Lonely Planet guide book publisher named Canada one of the Top 10 Countries to visit for 2009.

• A Brand Toolkit spelled out the essence of Canada’s tourism brand with ready-to-use graphics, photos and guidelines that make it easy for users to unite behind one consistent, signature voice.

• An Experiences Toolkit was launched to help small and medium-sized tourism businesses market their products as extraordinary experiences instead of commodities link.

• An innovative global marketing strategy used social media for the CTC’s first global TV and internet campaign.

“Despite the challenges faced by the global economy and the highly competitive market for tourism dollars, significant brand recognition for Canada during 2008 is proof that the ‘Canada. Keep exploring’ brand is sound, solid and working,” says CTC President and Chief Executive Michele McKenzie.

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS OPENS NEAR MONTREAL AIRPORT

The Holiday In n Express and Suites Montreal Airport marked its opening recently. The hotel, which officially began welcoming guests in November, showcases the brand's new sign, which is the seal of approval that this hotel exemplifies the standards of the US$1 billion Holiday Inn brand relaunch program.

The 154-room Holiday Inn Express and Suites Montreal Airport is ideally located within minutes of the Trudeau International Airport, restaurants and shopping. Guests will be within a short driving distance of Montreal's downtown core, McGill University

and businesses. Nearby tourist attractions include Musee de la Ville de Lachine and Dorval Shopping Centre, making the hotel a favorable option for both business and leisure travelers alike.

First announced in 2007, the relaunch program was established to create a more contemporary brand image as part of the drive to increase quality and consistency across the global portfolio. The program focuses on arrival and welcome services, guestroom, and guest bath comfort. The global estate of more than 3,200 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties is expected to be relaunched by the end of 2010.

DI MANNO RECOGNIZED BY MPI

Meeting Planners International (MPI) Toronto presented Diana Di Manno, Event Logistics Manager at the Toronto Congress Centre, with its Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award. The award annually recognizes excellence, commitment, service and involvement at the chapter level, meetings industry and community at large.

Di Manno has been a member of MPI since 2005 and during that time has been actively involved in Toronto chapter meetings, member care and recruitment. MPI Toronto Executive Director, Leslie Wright says, “Diana is passionate and enthusiastic about the meetings industry, and as a leader she engages everyone. In 2008 she was active on several MPI committees, including being responsible for seven big chapter meetings and acting as leader of our All Team meetings.”

“Not only is Diana busy with her job and MPI involvement, but the award also recognizes her community volunteer work with the Dorothy Ley Hospice Golf Tournament and the Toronto Congress Centre’s Community Engagement Committee” Wright says.

FAIRMONT’S SWEET DEAL Now more than ever, planners need to get the most out of meetings and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is here to help. In addition to attractive rates, storied meeting places and colleagues eager to make each function a success, Fairmont is now offering a great deal…a 10 percent credit applied against the master account for functions booked and executed

by June 30, 2010.

With hotels and resorts in the U.S., Canada, Bermuda, Mexico, Barbados, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, planners can choose from distinctive and memorable destinations around the world for their next event.

industrynews Fairmont’s Sweet Meeting Deal applies to groups with a minimum of 10 room nights, subject to availability and cannot be used in combination with any other offer, promotion or discount. The 10 percent credit is based on actualized room revenue only, exclusive of tax and gratuities.

Nanaimo's Coast Bastion Inn's search for the perfect interior design firm began with a call for an extensive guestroom renovation project for the 15-storey hotel on Vancouver Island. Enter Inside Design Studio Inc. and its innovative design to interpret the hotel's personality and remake the Coast Bastion the city's hotel of choice.

"From the initial client presentation to the last final touches, we knew that Inside Design Studio would take this room renovation project to new heights," says general manager, Thomas Mayrhofer. "Our guests continue to provide rave reviews regarding the Coast Bastion Inn's new modern design and guest amenities."

The 179-room full-service hotel located on Nanaimo's harbor is an ideal island getaway for both leisure and business travelers.

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts

BASTION INN’S FACELIFT

Whether it’s the myriad of outdoor adventure and water sports or the charm of the Old City Quarter with its galleries, restaurants and shops, the Coast Bastion Inn is the place to stay and experience a taste of island hospitality.

"Inside Design Studio Inc. has always focused its design work in partnership with hotels, restaurants and spas and this project was again an opportunity for our team to bring a sense of place to the Coast Bastion Inn," says principal Judy Henderson.

"Our ability to take hospitality design beyond the client's expectations and still remain true to the budget is always a good test of making the mark from the owner's perspective to the overall guest experience."

The guestrooms feature four fresh color schemes, ranging from burnt orange and lime green to reds and greys, and yellow and taupe combinations, anchor the guestrooms and provide the supporting palette to the spectacular harbor views outside.

Guests can choose to stay in spacious Jacuzzi Jr. suites to contemporary Comfort Rooms and enjoy all the conveniences of the latest technologies and amenities that come with Coast Hotels & Resorts signature hospitality.

Guestrooms also feature custom design furnishings, flat screen TVs set in rift cut oak paneling, geometric carpet tiles, back painted glass topped desks, chaise lounges and modern art.

Pack light

Afterwards, you’ll be craving a taste of Nova Scotia Need an incentive to hold your next meeting at Halifax’s World Trade & Convention Centre?

You’ll experience the world-class event facilities, impeccable service and award-winning cuisine you need to be really productive.

The fresh ocean air, vibrant history, cosmopolitan culture, rollicking good times and warm hospitality that have made Nova Scotia world-famous …

We throw those in for free.

Call 902-421-8686 or visit www.wtcchalifax.com/RFP to book now!

How refreshing.

WTCC_CM&E_0509.indd 2

4/29/2009 8:57:46 AM | 7 Corporate Meetings & Events

fea t u r e

Open the

doors to success

How to select the right venue for your next meeting or event

By Rachel Naud

8 | May/June 2009

fea t u r e

When a company or organization decides it is going to host its employees for an off-site meeting or event, the first -- and arguably most important -- step is selecting an appropriate venue.

Think of it this way. Envision yourself as the venue and you are inviting the parents of your husband or wife-to-be over for the first time. Make a bad impression, and you are in for a rocky road ahead.

That is because the venue sets the tone for the entire event. It is the very first impression the attendees get when they walk through the door. The first thing they’re going to notice is the venue’s appearance, amenities and tone. If the venue is drab and boring, they are going to dread the hours ahead of them. But i f the venue is st imulat i ng, fun a nd vibrant, the hours will pass by quickly and successfully. And just like those potential in-laws, everyone will unite together as one big -- albeit corporate -happy family.

“S ele c t i ng t he r ig ht ve nue st a r t s by fully understanding your clients’ needs, wants and wish list,” says Connie Tinney, CMP, national director, event management for KPMG Canada.

Rose Ti m mer ma n Git zi, president of RTG Special Events, says she factors in her group’s make up when deciding what their wish list entails.

“For example, with my women’s groups, I may try to find a venue that is close to great shopping and one that offers spa treatments,” she says. “I also have some corporate teams whose focus would be amenities such as wireless Internet, office setup in standard rooms with access to fax and printer… and a social meeting place such as a hotel restaurant or bar for aftermeeting networking.”

However, when an event planner isn’t provided with the demographics of their meeting attendees or the client is coming

up with blanks when it comes to meeting and venue ideas, it can make the event planner’s job a lot harder.

“Many times the client doesn’t really k now what they wa nt. A successful plan ner k nows how to ask the right probing questions and make early venue suggestions that align with the clients’ overall goals and objective,” says Tinney.

Establishing a good working relationship with the venue’s sales manager will ultimately make the event planner’s job easier. Professional event planners have established relationships with many different venues and sales managers that have the experience to know the venue best suited for any event; and an experienced event planner understands that the key to a successful event depends on the ability to build strong personal and long-term professional relationships with partners.

A healthy business relationship is very valuable, particularly for the non-financial benefits of these relationships such as mutual trust, consistency, responsiveness, understanding and flexibility of service expectations and delivery.

“The venue’s sales manager should be viewed as the event planner’s partner,” says Stephanie Johnson, president and event planning specialist with Critical Path Events Inc. “It is important to keep them well informed throughout the event planning process while balancing a sense of control and trust in their capabilities.”

Not only is the relationship between the event planner and the venue’s management important, but it is also imperative that the working relationship between the venue’s management and their key staff runs smoothly as well.

Corporate Meetings & Events | 9

fea t u r e

5 TIPS FOR SELECTING A VENUE

1

You have just been given the task of selecting the venue for your organization’s next big meeting or event and you are feeling the pressure -- and rightfully, so. The venue not only sets the tone for the entire event but it is a huge contributing factor for the entire success of the event. First step is to breathe. Second step -- adhere to these tips from the experts who have been there and you can relax knowing you have taken the right step toward success -- for both you and the event.

Have a strong understanding of the event’s purpose. This will help you determine the type of venue best-suited for your needs. For instance, do you want a fun, relaxed atmosphere or a get-down-to-business vibe? “Not all venues are blank slates,” says Carter. “They come with a theme or atmosphere that needs to work with the type of event being produced. Placing a fun event in a somber venue will likely not create the right atmosphere for success.”

3

Select a geographical location that best suits your guests’ needs. Nobody wants to travel hours for a day-long meeting or event.

Consider possible themes for the event. When executed properly, this can add spice to any meeting and/or event and can leave delegates talking and remembering it for years to come.

Do your research. Don’t limit yourself. Check out a few venue destinations and be sure to conduct a site inspection. This way there are no unwanted surprises come meeting or event day.

5

2

4

Ensure that the condition of the venue reflects the standards of the organization and will meet or exceed the guests’ expectations. If you have a high-profile organization, select a venue that will impress and inspire its attendees. Don’t pick a mediocre venue; it will leave a dull impression on attendees that will have a detrimental effect on the event’s purpose.

10 | May/June 2009

“The venue’s management and frontline staff have the ability to set the right tone or atmosphere for an event,” says Tinney.

“From the early stages of planning the event, every vendor must be involved and fully engaged taking ownership for their portion. This synergy or lack thereof can make or break the attendees’ experience.”

Also, part of the early stages planning, unless the event planner is completely familiar with the venue and already has a relationship with the sales and management team, every event planner should conduct a site inspection before contracting a venue.

Some of the key elements of selecting the right venue includes considering the geographic location, ease of transportation, surrounding amenities and the condition and comfort of the venue’s facilities.

Other factors to take into consideration are looking at what groups are booked at the venue at the same time, who is booked before your group and what time will they be out so you can move your group in for setup and what is the venue’s emergency plan if that group doesn’t leave on time.

“If the guests of the event are not satisfied with these key elements, it will create a challenge in exceeding their expectations of the overall event,” says Johnson.

In addition to examining the venue’s key elements, it is also important to evaluate the venue’s limitations.

“S ome of t he a men it ie s t h at I persona lly li ke to look for is t he abi l it y to display sig nage, sh ippi ng and receiving services requirements, f le x i b i l it y t o adj u s t r o om l ayo ut s, l im ited noise dist ractions, rest room access, ability to adjust indoor lighting, audio/visual capabilities, condition of supplied furnishings and carpet, parking facilities and last, but certainly not least, catering,” says Johnson. “The right venue will anticipate any situation and be able to provide you with a solution.”

If you wa nt a cut t i ng- edge venue, one that speaks to today’s hot meeting trends, the answer is pretty practical.

“Never m i nd t rends, prici ng is as significant as location,” says Denise Jones, president and chief executive officer of Jones & Jones Productions Ltd. Due to the current economic climate, the hot trend of today is simply flexibility.

Event budgets are being decreased and therefore in these times, negotiating is even more valuable than it has ever been.

fea t u r e

“Many times the client doesn’t really know what they want. A successful planner knows how to ask the right probing questions and make early venue suggestions that align with the clients’ overall goals and objective” “Event planners are working with partners who are willing to be flexible during this time of need to help meet budgets from guarantee policies to payment options,” says Johnson.

“Venues that are providing complimentary services or creating customized catering and facilities costs are being sought out.”

For a more creative outlook of meeting t re nd s, eve nt pla n ner s shou ld lo ok for venues that allow for unique room setups for an inclusive environment, venues with a boutique feel and venues that can convert storefronts to meeting or gala spaces.

“One of the very unique local venues that I was recently invited to was at the Tiffany’s retail store on Toronto’s Bloor Street,” says Johnson. “They offered a whole “Breakfast at Tiffany’s experience.”

“I once worked on a very large program where there simply wasn’t sufficient meeting space for a l l t he t ra i n i ng a nd brea kout sessions required,” adds Tinney. “Working with the venue and show services company, t hey were able to t u r n a n u nderg rou nd parking garage into meeting space. I was impressed and it worked!”

In addit ion to bei ng f u n a nd eclect ic, venues that offer a responsible option are also an attractive selection.

“Venues that understand and can help produce green meetings are interesting to many companies who have implemented corporate social responsibility,” says Brenda Carter, CMP, event manager, KPMG Canada.

To be green, means corporations are leaving a small imprint or impact on the environment when the meeting or event is all said and done.

Hotels ideally meet the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) building standards for eco-construction but green also refers to the amount of disposable products used, energy consumption and more.

Corporate Meetings & Events | 11

The province of

Alberta Wide open choices

By Jamie Zachary

12 | May/June 2009

Reg i o n al P r o f i le

The Alberta advantage is alive and well in wild rose country.

Home to an extensive catalogue of world-renowned sites, local attractions and multipurpose facilities, the only problem facing planners and delegates might be where to start.

That’s a great thing for the meetings industry, where it’s often the experience that defines an event’s success, says Jeff McLarty, deputy director of the Fort Whoop-Up Interpretive Centre in Lethbridge.

“I believe that today’s planners are looking for more than just a room to host meeting.

They want to be provided an experience for their patrons,” says McLarty, whose facility, a national historic site, offers just that, with meeting capabilities that live up to the province’s western heritage.

“It is important to not only provide a high quality environment for the exchange of information, but to also create an atmosphere of camaraderie and enjoyment by integrating unique experiences and fun as part of the conference package.”

And despite recent global economic events, Alberta continues to be a haven for meeting planners looking for that perfect mix of affordability, convenience and inspiration.

“Honestly, we feel that tough times call for more meetings, not less. The need to have truly productive meetings has become more important than ever,” says Deborah Whittle, marketing officer of hospitality and conferences for the Banff Centre.

“Organizations need a meeting place where people can creatively work through today’s challenges and realize tomorrow’s opportunities.”

BANFF

The folks at the Banff Centre should know.

Born during the Depression in 1933, the multipurpose facility, located just under two hours’ drive northwest of Calgary, has staked its reputation on providing creative solutions in one of the most inspiring locations on the planet.

Nestled on the side of Banff's Tunnel Mountain on 43 acres of pristine Rocky Mountain wilderness, the Banff Centre boasts more than 60 exceptional meeting facilities, lecture theatres and auditoriums that can accommodate groups of up to 1,000 delegates.

It also offers more than 400 guest bedrooms and a number of dining options -- from the a la carte Three Ravens Restaurant & Wine Bar to the 450-seat, market-style Vistas Dining Room. Coming soon to the Banff Centre is the Kinnear Centre for Creativity and Innovation, set to open in the fall of 2010.

The centre will provide an additional 21,000 square feet of meeting space, not to mention a new 1,500-seat grassed amphitheatre facing the picturesque Bourgeau Range.

Yet the Banff Centre’s crown jewel is not so much a single lounge or lecture hall, but rather, its ability to adapt to the needs of visiting events, says Whittle.

“We a re able to of fer spe cia l i zed programming in areas such as leadership development and team building, features which can certainly enhance the value of the Banff Centre as a multi-faceted conference venue,” she says.

And a notable part of that specialized programming comes by way of its leadership in environmentally responsible practices -one of the hottest growing sectors in today’s meetings and events industry.

The centre is governed by a comprehensive environmental management system that’s designed to further reduce its environmental footprint. It is also a Green Leaf Eco-rated member, which recognizes the facility’s efforts in adopting industry best practices for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and pollution prevention in all areas of its operations and management.

For meetings and events, that translates into everything from green checklists to in-staff environmental officers.

CALGARY

From green to gold, silver and bronze, Canada Olympic Park (COP) offers a much different meeting experience for planners and delegates.

Located in northwest Calgary just off the Trans-Canada Highway, the multipurpose facility is perhaps best known as the premier facility of the 1988 Olympic Winter Games.

Today, the site continues to serve as training facilities for many of the world’s top athletes, not to mention home to a number of meeting and event facilities that think outside of the box.

Imagine attending a one-of-a-kind meeting at the top of the facility’s iconic 90-metre ski jump tower, that’s mere footsteps from where international sports history was written. Or gathering in the European-styled Naturbahn Teahouse at the top of COP, which was the original starting area for the natural luge track, and today hosts groups of up to 100 people yearround.

No matter where a meeting is held at COP, it’s hard not to be inspired by its sense of history and continued role in developing some of the greatest athletes in the world, says Stewart McDonough, communications specialist for WinSport Canada, which operates COP. “The Park air is heavy with Olympic heritage and promise,” he says. “When corporate groups come here, they are quite often planning strategy, discussing goals and objectives, and they invariably bring up the direct tie to how athletes train.

“Where goals, objectives and strategies are more than words on a flip chart -- they are the path to the podium.”

In addition to the teahouse and ski jumping tower, COP also has the recently renovated Atco Centre, which is capable of hosting banquets and conferences of up to 200 people; festival tent (600 people); and eightyeight lounge (150 people).

Corporate Meetings & Events | 13

Reg i o n al P r o f i le

Yet, not all of the action takes place in the boardroom at COP. The park is a year-round mecca for sports enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

In t he w i nter, COP of fers sk i i ng, snowboarding, and bobsleigh rides down the Olympic Track. In the summer, it’s all about mountain biking, ziplines, luge rides and climbing walls.

“COP can provide a combination of breakout sessions that can’t be found anywhere else in the world,” says McDonough. “We have an experienced event team that provide immeasurable expertise, and an operations crew that can customize just about anything an event could require.”

Not to be outdone, the city boasts dozens of unique recreational facilities for visiting delegates, as well as more than dozens 14 | May/June 2009

of meetings and events venues. That includes approximately 122,000 square feet of meeting space at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre and 225,000 square feet of trade show space in the Roundup Centre at Calgary Stampede Park alone. Combine that with close to 11,000 accommodation rooms, more than 4,000 of which are in the downtown core, and Calgary can cater to most any planners’ needs.

The CTCC, located in the heart of downtown Calgary mere footsteps from City Hall and Olympic Plaza, has been meeting those needs for more than three decades.

Canada’s first full-service facility of its kind opened its doors in 1974, and today offers access to 36 meeting rooms, 47,000 square feet of exhibit space, a 20,000-squarefoot ballroom and five pre-function areas.

That’s not to mention indoor walkways that connect the facility to three four-star hotel partners, dozens of restaurants, museums and more.

“Delegates can truly experience the city as the downtown core will have the entertainment, shopping, restaurants and major hotels,” says Heather Lundy, communications manager for the CTCC. Already hosting, on average, 1,200 meetings annually for up to 4,000 delegates, the CTCC is currently examining options that would add to the 122,000-square-foot facility.

In early February, the CTCC made the first steps toward a second expansion. The first, completed in 2000, included a major expansion to construct the North Building.

Add it io n a l r e n ovat io n s r e c e nt ly transformed the centre’s once iconic piano

Reg i o n al P r o f i le

Photo courtesy of The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Banff Lake Louise Tourism

“Meeting planners are starting to consider Lethbridge as a go-to destination for conferences in part because of the amenities available”

bar (Olde Scotch Room) into four new meeting rooms ranging in size from 510 to 920 square feet.

“In order for us to remain competitive in the international arena, we must look at our options to increase our size,” says Lundy, noting the CTCC is currently the eighth largest of its kind in Canada.

EDMONTON

Much of that competition comes about three hours’ drive north of the Queen Elizabeth II Highway in Alberta’s capital.

Edmonton has more than 50 providers that offer some 8,500 hotel rooms, 1,000 restaurant seats and half a million square feet of meeting space.

The Shaw Conference Centre is one of the largest of those spaces, with a

155,000 -square-foot-facilit y that can accommodate up to 7,000 people.

L o c a t e d i n E d m o n t o n ’s v i b r a n t dow ntow n core, the cent re i ncludes 2 3 m e e t i n g s r o om s, a s we l l a s a n 80,000-square-foot exhibition hall that’s divisible into three separate spaces.

Northlands Park, meanwhile, offers activities for just about any visitor -- and the meeting space to match. The Park is home to more than 2,500 events annually -- including the Capital Ex, Farmfair International, Edmonton Indy, horseracing, concerts and numerous sporting events -- that attract upward of four million people annually.

Its buildings -- the Spectrum, AgriCom and Sportex, as well as Rexall Place, home of the Edmonton Oilers -- offer exhibition space for more than 17,000 people.

Northlands is also home to more than 450,000 square feet of adaptable meeting space. An expansion expected to be completed this fall will result in 500,000 square feet of space featuring four new exhibit halls and high-calibre conference and catering facilities.

Outside of the meeting room, delegates have access to recreational, culinary and cultural activities that is unrivalled in Western Canada.

Edmonton is home to more than 3,500 restaurants that mirror the diversity of more than 50 ethnic groups in the region.

As well, the city is connected to more than 70 golf courses, as well as 22 major parks with more than 150 kilometres of trails.

And don’t forget the famous West Edmonton Mall, which is widely regarded as the “Greatest Indoor Show on Earth,” with 800 stores and services, 100 eating establishments, an indoor amusement park, skating rink, water park, hotel, casino and movie theatres spread out over the equivalent of 48 city blocks.

MEDICINE HAT

In southern Alberta, Medicine Hat is taking a markedly different approach to attracting meetings and events to the city.

Located about three hours’ drive southeast of Calgary, on the eastern terminus of the Crowsnest Highway, and the South Saskatchewan River, this flourishing hub of some 60,000 residents is focusing, for the most part, on its western roots, thus providing delegates with, what industry experts say, is an “authentic” Alberta experience.

“Medicine Hat has held on to the western heritage, which is a factor to events coming here,” says Vanessa Lynde, sales and events co-ordinator for the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede.

That’s not limited to its famous western hospitality, wide-open spaces and, perhaps most important affordability.

“The idea of bri ng i ng a n event to Alberta, or for that matter to Medicine Hat, is the cost of events being held in the city,” says Lynde, noting many of the events that come to the city are based in the agricultural and oil and gas sectors.

Fo r pl a n n e r s, t h e M e d i c i n e H at Exhibition & Stampede is home to the largest convention centre facilities in the city and surrounding area, with seven different venues offering seating capacities to more than 1,500 people.

By July, the Stampede will also add a new venue that will host two yearround rental rooms that can seat up to 335 people, combined.

W h i le t h e Cy p r e s s C e nt r e m ig ht s t e a l mu c h o f t h e s p o t l ig ht at t h e St a mp e de - - w it h a 14,0 0 0 - s q u a r e foot auditor iu m, 23,0 0 0 -squa re-foot pav i l ion, 4,0 0 0 -squa re-foot ba nquet room and several meeting rooms -- it is the provider’s perfect blend of small and large spaces that are the real attraction.

Corporate Meetings & Events | 15

Reg i o n al P r o f i le That includes the perfectly western Carriage House -- capable of hosting up to 60 people -- as well as the six-acre pioneer village and park that’s a private and tranquil space for team-building or getaway exercises nestled in the serene woodlands.

For delegates, Medicine Hat is steeped in local history and unique attractions.

Nicknamed Canada’s sunniest city (2,512 hours per year), “The Hat” is home to a gaslight-themed downtown featuring more than 200 shops and services.

The city is also connected to more than 100 parks, 90 kilometres of walking trails throughout the city, seven golf courses, and southeast Alberta’s largest shopping mall.

A short drive away is also a number of world-famous tourist attractions, such as Dinosaur Provincial Park, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park & the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology.

LETHBRIDGE

In nearby Chinook Country, Lethbridge is making an equally big splash in and out of the boardroom.

The city of more than 80,000 residents set record activity levels in the meetings and events industry during this year’s

first quarter, according to Econom ic Development Lethbridge. That follows a banner year in 2008, in which $7.5 million was spent as a direct result of meetings and events held in the city.

Credit goes largely to recent expansions and upgrades at a number of the city’s meeting facilities. Coast Hotels and Resorts recently announced that it will offer the largest conference facilities in southern Alberta as early as this fall.

Located at the former El Rancho Hotel and Convention Centre in the heart of Lethbridge, the 105-room g uestroom facilit y is expected to feat ure 13,660 square feet of meeting space, including f ive ba nque t room s a nd a n elega nt grand ballroom.

Recent renovations at the 190-guestroom Lethbridge Lodge and Conference Centre, meanwhile, now means it offers nine meeting rooms, including a grand ballroom, that can accommodate up to 800 people.

“Meeting planners are starting to consider Lethbridge as a go-to destination for conferences in part because of the amenities available,” says McLarty of Fort Whoop-Up. “With the increasing availability of new and high quality conference space and unique leisure attractions in the area, Lethbridge

offers meeting planners the opportunity to plan an enjoyable conference experience.”

Not to be outdone, Fort Whoop-Up offers one the more unique meeting spaces in Alberta just minutes from downtown Lethbridge.

Located in Indian Battle Park, the national historic site pays homage to its roots as a former whiskey trading post through interactive displays, historical re-enactments and period rooms that serve as a magnificent backdrop for meetings or events.

The Fort offers three unique meeting spaces, including the Old Saloon, a colorful alternative for small meetings or breakout sessions of up to 40 people; the Historic Bunkhouse for up to 60 people; and the more modern Shockley Firearms gallery, for approximately 40 guests.

For large social and concert events, the Fort has a courtyard and other period rooms that can host 700 seated or 1,500 in a concertstyle arrangement. As well, the large field surrounding the facility increases the site’s capacity to around 4,000 for concert events.

“Is there one thing about Fort WhoopUp that sets us apart?” asks McLarty.

“There are few things that kick off an opening ceremony like a blast from our three-pound cannon.”

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16 | May/June 2009

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industrynews

Entering unchartered

waters

18  |  May/June 2009

industrynews

Canada's convention centres play a key role in recovery

By Rod Cameron

As with so many other business sectors, Canada's convention centres are looking forward with a sense of anticipation to the impacts that the current global economic crisis may bring in the coming months and years. This concern, coming as it does on the heels of some of the strongest performance years on record, will affect not only marketing but also performance measurement, operating efficiencies, business priorities and even the ways in which centres calculate and report the

Corporate Meetings & Events  |  19

Photo courtesy of Vancouver Convention Centre

benefits they bring to their respective communities.

fea t u r e However, ea rly i ndicat ion s a re t hat Canada's centres are well positioned to deal with an evolving future and as always, those that anticipate and respond best to current challenges -- and who at the same time are able to find new business opportunities -- are the ones that will weather the storm most successfully.

In assessing the current situation, it becomes immediately apparent that there are some significant differences in how various centres are impacted based on the

around the world. This understandably has the effect of raising the expectations of clients. As a result, it is becoming increasingly necessary for destinations and owners to recognize a need for ongoing investment in facilities and services simply to remain competitive in a market where so much high quality product is readily available.

At the same time, there is a new factor that relates to how meetings and conventions are perceived. Beginning with the

long-term benefits and, in some cases, reshape the whole way in which centres and clients work together.

Second, they are looking at other revenue sources. This includes re-examining the opportunities to diversify business across a wider range of geographic areas and market sectors in order to reduce dependence on any particular segment and thus enhance overall business stability. It also often leads to a re-evaluation of the importance of the local client base,

composition of their business. There is, for example, a clear differentiation between corporate and association events, with corporate events tending to show the most immediate and profound effects, while association events have remained largely stable even though there may yet be impacts on their attendance.

It's the same for the timing of event bookings, with associations again demonstrating greater stability given their typically lengthier booking periods which may actually “straddle” the current recession. As a result, the weighting of any particular centre’s business in these different areas can have a profound effect on overall performance.

One challenge is that it is becoming increasingly difficult for centre managers to estimate financial impacts. While the more stable business remains on the books, there are potential declines in attendance and revenue which will remain unknown until the events actually take place and it is difficult to estimate these in advance.

Food and beverage in particular continues to be an unknown until late in the process, and this is a real consideration given the growing proportion of revenue this area delivers in many centres. Centres are also seeing significant and growing delays in the booking process -- particularly in terms of contracting -- as many organizers defer their decisions for as long as possible.

There is also a need to address growing competition, as many centres continue to expand and renovate, raising the performance bar not just across the country but

advent of "pharma codes," which impacted the relationship between pharmaceutical companies and their funding for medical meetings, and exacerbated by some of the conditions associated with government bailout funding for corporations, meetings are increasingly seeking to position themselves as serious business, primarily concerned with education, professional and academic endeavors and business advancement rather than social activities. While these have always been key components of meetings, they are now shaping how clients select a destination and even whether or not a particular event takes place at all.

which may be less impacted by some of the financial considerations such as travel costs and which may offer more workable alternatives to larger events in challenging times. Many such events offer good sources of revenue to the centre which can help offset any revenue reductions from other event types.

Third, they are increasingly seeking to demonstrate global standards in operations and services, for the simple reason that such credentials are visible evidence of quality -- something that is important in times when clients are looking for the best possible value. Client expectations are increasingly global for the simple reason that the rotation of events which is characteristic of our industry exposes clients to a wide range of facilities and enables them to be more critical about what they are getting in any particular location.

Fourth, centres are engaging with colleagues through industry associations and events which enable them to keep better track of market developments and share strategies for business survival and growth. This kind of communication is more important than ever, given the need to identify effective strategies for survival, and is made possible by the spirit of cooperation which characterizes the industry. The majority of centres long ago recognized that they had much more to gain through the free exchange of information and experience than they did from hoarding it, and this has become a particularly important strength in the face of a challenging economy.

20 | May/June 2009

FACING THE CHALLENGES It's an impressive array of challenges, particularly when governments (which make up the vast majority of centre owners) are facing a whole range of their own economic crisis related issues. However, centres are already responding to these challenges in a number of ways.

First, they are re-engaging with clients to see how they can work better together in addressing their common concerns over attendance, facility requirements and potential changes in programming.

This kind of dialogue benefits both parties because it enables centres to plan more effectively and clients to better avail themselves of the experience and insights of centre staff as they seek to respond to the pressures they themselves are facing, including, in some cases, reduced staffing.

At the same time, it can help build relationships in ways that will have positive

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fea t u r e

Finally, many centres are recognizing that the current crisis is a good opportunity to demonstrate the key economic role they play in their respective communities.

By showing how the events they host can stimulate business growth and confidence, they have the opportunity to create a positive impression that will last long after the current crisis is over.

This latter initiative is likely the most important from the perspective of the longterm health of the industry as a whole. As an industry, we have not done a good job of communicating effectively what we do, the wide range of benefits we generate and why we deserve the support of the community. In particular, we have not been effective in underlining the key role that convention centres and the kinds of events they host have in advancing overall economic development.

In this respect, the current economic crisis offers an important opportunity to do what we have not been able to do previously -- and that is to position centres and the meetings industry overall as a key player in economic recovery.

The argument is a pretty simple one: there is no better way to create stimulation than by engaging people in the processes of product development, education, new investment, professional development and the exchange of new ideas and technologies. This is what meetings, conventions and exhibitions do -- and why they inevitably play a key role in getting the economy going again.

KEY ROLE In fact, there are at least five reasons why a time of economic contraction is a time to 22 | May/June 2009

advance the role of the meetings industry: First, and most obviously, these events help to advance business activity when that’s needed the most. Meetings, conventions and exhibitions are occasions for the exchange of information and the advancement of ideas -- the kinds of things that lead to new products and services and the adaptation of existing ones to meet new commercial opportunities. By creating a forum for this kind of activity, meetings play a key role in stimulating business activity from the bottom up, as well as creating a platform for promoting and selling the resulting products.

Second, they are a fundamental underlying component of research and development.

Economic stimulation requires innovation, and that in turn means an exchange amongst those in the development process. New investment in formal R&D programs will only come when there is an evident potential, and by getting a good sense of what is going on worldwide in any field -- again, the kind of thing that takes place at meetings and conventions -- those engaged in the development field can determine the directions in which they should be headed in a much more efficient way.

Third, they play an important role in professional development. One of the first casualties of an economic downturn is confidence, and not just in institutions.

Individuals, too, particularly when faced with an uncertain future, start to lose confidence in their own ability to stay afloat.

The opportunity to gain new knowledge and expertise -- tools that can be put to work as conditions improve -- can deliver a major boost to personal confidence, and that leads to improved attitudes and more positive perspectives across the board.

Fourth, meetings, conventions and exhibitions can play a strongly stabilizing role in the transportation and hospitality sectors because they stimulate travel in a way that just doesn’t seem to happen at a personal level. Following the aftermath of 9/11, when there was a virtual halt to travel in many parts of the world, it was the meetings and conventions area that led the recovery, with delegates and exhibitors taking the initiative to hit the road long before there was any comparable rebound in personal travel. The added necessity of attending events that played a key role in people’s business and professional lives seemed to be what it took to get them on the road again, and in the process, supporting hotels and other visitor infrastructure when they needed it the most.

Finally, meetings, conventions and exhibitions are key factors in addressing an economic crisis because they promote cooperation and understanding at a time when tensions are high due to the pressures of uncertainty. Economic crises tend to promote conflict as different regions and interests struggle to come to terms with a variety of different impacts. The kind of ongoing dialogue that is supported by meetings and conventions is the best possible way to address this sort of situation, and to promote global cooperation (and in the process, understanding) on many different fronts at once.

Most governments, associations and corporations understand at least part of this, and are prepared to encourage and support meetings activities when the economy is under attack. We need to broaden the understanding of the role that these kinds of events can play in leading the way out of a crisis, and current circumstances offer an opportunity to do just that.

In short, Canada's convention centres will be confronted by many of the same issues faced by other business sectors -and like these sectors they will be seeking to adapt, innovate and create new business opportunities out of the challenges that lie ahead. However, they also represent a big part of the solution to the current crisis in terms of the role they can and do play in supporting overall economic development.

In strengthening their own operations and business, they will be strengthening the economy as well, and the ability to demonstrate this effectively may be one of the greatest opportunities we have today.

Rod Cameron, is Executive Director at Convention Centres of Canada.

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F E A TUR E

Get to

the point A well-defined theme is a must in planning meetings

Photos courtesy of Metro Convention Centre

By Scott Anderson

28  |  May/June 2009

F E A TUR E

Anyone burdened with the task of planning a meeting or conference knows that the first stumbling block in the overall process is coming up with a knockout theme. Without a clear and concise theme for the session you are dead in the water.

A memorable theme will help you drive the corporate message home and will have the participants talking about it for weeks.

A poorly crafted one, on the other hand, will leave employees flat and uninspired.

“A theme gives you a focal point. A theme can be a rallying cry. A theme, especially if it is on target, can really resonate with employees at all levels,” says Jerry Busche, whose Jacksonville, Floridabased BizMotivation.com specializes in sales and motivational programs as well as meeting planning. “It can be a quick communication of the big goal and say what you want to achieve in a colorful or entertaining way.”

At some point we have all fallen back on the tried and true themes. We all know the ones -- the Hawaiian luau, a western cookout, or “Back to the Future,” -- which are acceptable, says Busche, especially in these tough economic times where manpower is limited and money is scarce. Busche notes that meetings have dropped by 30 to 35 percent recently as the downturn in the economy takes hold, while others have dramatically cut back on their spending.

“With budgets severely curtailed, what I am finding is that a lot of times people, instead of going for the full out, custom theme a nd spendi ng a lot of money developing that theme, they are going with more classic themes that have been around for sometime,” he says.

A simple keynote speaker can also help a company drive the message home and leave the employees motivated, moved and inspired.

“It is important to select a professional speaker that can take a theme and make it his own or her own and to just help to play it out and sink their teeth into it, so that that speaker can then give more credibility to that theme and give it the sustainability and legs,” says Busche.

But s t i l l m a ny m o r e g r o up s a r e thinking outside of the tried and true and breaking the bank with creative themes and expensive productions. Whether it is an inspiring and rousing address from a keynote speaker, a fun-filled and interactive program, employees will leave the meeting energized.

“The whole experiential thing a lot of companies now are trying to use is to just help keep people awa ke a nd interested more than anything else,” says Murray Seward, general manager at Canadian Outback Adventures, in Vancouver, British Columbia.

“Wit h t he dr y PowerPoi nt presentation, although there still is a place for it as far as delivering some types of information, if that is the only way it is delivered then that’s not going

to capt ure the at tent ion of a certai n percentage of your people.”

Meeting themes have come a long way since the western cookouts and Hawaiian luaus. These include murder mysteries, Star War themes and even an entire day where employees participate in a race styled around the popular television show Amazing Race.

“One of our biggest challenges is staying up with that demand and continuing to be creative,” says Seward. “They are looking for new ways to challenge each other and get the point across.”

Canadian Outback is one such company that offers different groups a themed meeting experience. Founded in 1992, it offers corporate team building events and activities for companies across the country, and provides unique events

Corporate Meetings & Events | 29

F E A TUR E

Here are some tips from Busche for coming up with a meaningful, on-target theme, which can create a rallying cry for your objectives and goals: • Review your meeting agenda to decide which theme best relates to your objective and will help to dramatize it.

• Consider your employees and what theme will appeal to them.

• Will the theme appeal equally to men and to women?

• Will new employees and veteran ones respond the same way to the theme?

• Is there anything seasonal you can tie in with? Valentines Day? The Winter Olympics? A NASCAR event? The Academy Awards? A popular TV series?

• Are there other themes, slogans and programs in your company or organization that your theme can tie in with?

• Keep your theme short so it's stronger and more memorable.

• Can you sustain this theme over time without people getting bored with it?

• Can the group have some fun with this theme idea?

• Will the people buy into the theme and its intent?

• Be sensitive and don't allow sexism, racism or other objectionable aspects to relate to the theme.

• Once you've selected your theme, review your agenda and see how your theme can tie in with it.

• Build every element around your theme. For instance: Ask your speakers to use language and references that relate to the theme.

• If possible, create a logo-look for your catchy theme. And produce hats, t-shirts, mugs, pens, screen savers, and other items that bear the theme.

• Use the theme/logo on all promotions and literature • Use decorations if possible, whether simple posters or elaborate backdrops which can be purchased. Inexpensive decorations can go a long way -- i.e., balloons, streamers, posters, banners.

• Use favors, prizes and giveaways that fit with your theme.

• If appropriate, add some theme-related entertainment to your meeting: e.g., skits, song parodies, role-playing, background mood music.

• Serve refreshments that carry out your theme.

30 | May/June 2009

F E A TUR E the participants will get excited about participating in. Many are spin-offs of popular television series including The Apprentice, Mission: Impossible, Iron Chef, CI: The Crime Investigators, James Bond and The Amazing Race.

One of the more popular events is its “Amazing Chase.” Based on the popular television series, groups are split into two teams then again into mini-teams whose goal it is to work together to complete the race in as little time as possible.

Throughout the course mini-teams will come across a variety of signs to mark the location of additional route information, outline a specific task one person on each team must complete before moving on, or give a choice of two tasks an entire team must complete before moving on.

“The reason we have chosen these themes is because they are concepts that people can relate to and they may even be interested in. If they know they are doing something with an Apprentice theme or something they have heard of, at least it piques their interest somewhat, versus the more traditional old school scavenger hunt,” Seward says. “It’s so they don’t just turn their brains off and roll their eyes back like they would for a bunch of different activities.”

HELP AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Both Busche and Seward credit technology -- and the internet in particular -- with simplifying the planning process in these times of shrinking discretionary spending.

“That’s the thing with the internet,” says Seward. “It is now very easy to see lots of good ideas. They are more accessible than the days of the Yellow Pages, where you had two ads and you weren’t exposed to all the concepts that are out there worldwide.”

Busche notes that many planners are looking for resources to help them plan that meeting while still providing a costefficient choice.

“They are looking for resources and they are looking for the idea that is going to work,” he says. “They don’t have the tens of thousands of dollars to put into it that they would have during more robust times.”

Busche has recognized the power of the internet and seized the opportunity to promote his meeting planning services. His Florida-based company provides help on all aspects of planning meetings, finding speakers that would relate to themes, subjects and objectives of the company.

He also offers a downloadable product and has sold some 6,000 of these around the world, with more than 240 alone in Canada.

“Theme Ideas Handbook” is loaded with more than 600 theme ideas to help businesses and organizations quickly come up with an on-target theme for their conference, meeting or workplace event.

It includes “how to” tips, techniques and worksheets on “How to choose an effective theme” and “How to integrate yo u r t h e m e i n t o yo u r m e e t i n g o r other activity”. It was designed to help overcome the theme-creation problems and headaches of tight deadlines, limited budgets, and creative dry spells. It is adaptable to any business or organization, any department, and any occasion.

Busche says the goal in planning a meeting is to carefully select a theme for your meeting which will help unify everyone's focus and efforts.

B u s c h e a dd s t h a t a we l l - c h o s e n theme provides an umbrella concept, u n de r wh i c h a l l r e l at e d m at e r i a l s a nd act iv it ies a re g iven heig htened enthusiasm and effectiveness. After you have determined an objective and have a written agenda, you should begin to select a nd develop your over-ridi ng theme.

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12/16/08 4:08:04 PM

The Benefits of Green Meetings in York Region York Region is committed to the environment.

The facilities and amenities in this area embrace a green mandate that will impress meeting planners and delegates alike.

Today, the concept of a green meeting goes well beyond just recycling, but when faced with tight timelines and budgets, it may appear that greening your next meeting will add more work with limited results. As we begin to adopt more green strategies in our day to day lives, it only makes good sense to extend those strategies to our work lives. Many organizations have found that greening their meetings save them money!

York Region’s hotels, facilities and attractions embrace numerous innovative uses of green technology and other sustainable practices. For example, the Hilton Suites Toronto/ Markham Conference Centre and Spa are proud recipients of the Hotel Associations of Canada’s designation of Three Green Keys. The hotel and attached conference centre have replaced all their 60-watt light bulbs with 24 –watt bulbs which had dramatically reduced their electricity consumption.

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Vaughan Southwest is also a leader in energy efficiency and one of the four hotels in York Region to be awarded a Four Green Key rating.

Located on the south shores of Lake Simcoe, the Briar’s Resort, Spa and Conference Centre has been a pioneer in greening their meetings and facilities.

The resort was one of the first major resorts in Ontario to ban indoor smoking.

In the very near future the resort’s goal is to compost all kitchen waste.

At the Kingsbridge Conference Centre & Institute the serving of locally grown food has not only reduced their carbon footprint by reducing the transportation needs, they are also giving back to community by supporting local farmers and suppliers.

“York Region’s hotels, facilities and attractions embrace numerous innovative uses of green technology...”

Kortright Centre, Archetype Sustainable House

The Courtyard by Marriott Vaughan is very conscious of their environmental responsibility to the community. The hotel’s single stream recycling program collects all recyclable items from guestrooms, public spaces, hotel offices, and of course their meeting rooms.

At the Delta Markham the staff strive to support their community by donating materials and supplies to local charitable organizations.

The greening initiatives in York Region expand outside the hotel. Spousal tour options and off-site events incorporate many green elements.

The Kortright Centre and its Archetype Sustainable House is a truly unique host for small or large scale events. Located in a beautiful, natural setting with theatre space, break-out meeting rooms and green space for outdoor functions, your event can green in every sense of the word.

For the group looking for a great team building opportunity, we suggest an outing to the Oak Ridges Trail. With over 115 kilometres of hiking, walking and biking trails located within York Region, the Oak Ridges Trail Association can customize the right outdoor experience for your group.

As you start planning your next meeting, conference or event, contact York Region Tourism to help find that green facility and to learn more about what the Region has to offer. We are here to share in your planning and to help make your next meeting a green success.

Visit yorktourism.com/meetings and request your FREE Keynote, Conference and Meeting Planner.

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There’s a perfect meeting space in your backyard.

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Reg i o n al P r o f i le

n a l Or It’s a small world after all

By Stephen Forest

34 | May/June 2009

Reg i o n al P r o f i le

ndo The memory is as vivid today as it was that hot summer day 33 years ago.

It was my first trip to Orlando, a family vacation to Florida that culminated in a trip to Walt Disney World. Cinderella’s Castle in the Magic Kingdom was just like I saw it each Sunday evening on television’s Wonderful World of Disney.

As a child, Orlando captivated my imagination.

Decades later, Orlando is much more than the Magic Kingdom.

Now adults can get treated to that same sense of awe and wonderment and it won’t cost an E ticket for Space Mountain.

The central Florida city has long been known as a leisure destination, with its famous theme parks, but it is now becoming known as a serious business destination.

“Disney is what started it here in many ways, but the other theme parks -- Universal, Sea World -- have added to that and there are so many other parks and attractions that we offer,” says Gary Sain, president and chief executive officer of the Orlando/ Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“Orlando has really morphed into a destination that offers a lot of different things to a lot of different people and that’s why we’re able to draw 48 million visitors a year because they all don’t come for one reason.”

Of those visitors, about 4 million are convention, meeting and trade show delegates. They are drawn by the creativity Orlando inspires, says Sain.

“There’s a lot of destinations that have hotels and convention centres, but we think our true distinction is that Orlando offers an environment where people can really think outside the box and create ideas,” he says.

The Orlando/Orange County Convention and Visitors Bureau lives it with their motto: “Orlando, where creative minds meet.”

Sain says meetings are about ideas and face-to-face contact.

“You want an environment that really stimulates thinking.”

It all starts with the glorious weather, the blue skies and palm trees.

Though Orlando’s signature convention venue, the massive Orange County Convention Center, is located in the heart of the city’s tourist area and has a more urban feel, many of the community’s meeting and convention venues have a resort feeling.

Lots of water, lots of green grass, lots of palm trees, and lots of blue sky which all translate into lots of ideas and creativity.

“You do not get a sense you’re hemmed into a downtown area with concrete,” explains Sain. “That openness really provides an additional way of looking at things.”

Corporate Meetings & Events | 35

Reg i o n al P r o f i le

“Orlando has really morphed into a destination that offers a lot of different things to a lot of different people and that’s why we’re able to draw 48 million visitors a year because they all don’t come for one reason” 36 | May/June 2009

Reg i o n al P r o f i le With such famous theme parks at their doorstep and other neat venues to explore, the creativity can begin long before arrival.

With so many attractions and options, planners will run out of days before they run out of ideas.

“When you think about what you can do at Disney, Universal, Sea World, just to name those three -- that’s where that creative thinking really comes because if you can do a food and beverage function or a meeting, or a meeting with interactive (component) that is done at one of the parks, it certainly makes it more memorable,” says Sain. “And I think that’s where the attendee really thinks outside the box. The venues create those creative interactions.”

Meeting planners must agree. Orlando is the second largest meetings destination in the United States behind Las Vegas.

Hotels have stepped up to meet the demand, with a few boasting 400,000 square feet of meeting space. That’s as much as convention centres in several U.S. cities.

When the work day is over, Orlando delivers, too.

Many of the city’s convention hotels and resorts feature the extras right on site for delegates’ convenience, whether it be gourmet restaurants, trendy nightclubs, top-flight golf courses, spas and boutique shopping.

As a community, Orlando has nearly 200 golf courses and world famous golf academies, dining, the arts and shopping.

Ah, the shopping!

“We’re rivaling many of the great shopping cities of the United States -- Miami or New York or Chicago,” says Sain.

“Now you can come to Orlando for all the stuff you know we have, for all the great attributes, and shopping now has become extremely popular, especially with the discount malls we have.”

And dining!

“The (dining) options have certainly increased, probably 10-fold in the last two or three years and I think they’ll continue to grow because of what the

convention attendees are looking for,” says Sain.

It’s what has made Orlando popular in international markets like Brazil, the Un ited Ki ngdom, Irela nd, Germa ny, Mexico and Canada. “Those markets come here for all different reasons and it’s not just the theme parks.”

But what about the economy? Hasn’t it put a chill on hot Orlando?

It turns out the economy might just be helping the city through these tough times.

T h e O r l a n d o /O r a n g e C o u n t y Convention and Visitors Bureau reports

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Corporate Meetings & Events | 37

Reg i o n al P r o f i le

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1-800-267-3377 M i n to S u i te Ho te l . c o m 38  |  May/June 2009

about 30 percent of convention attendees tag on a vacation to their business trip and that number is growing. “I think that’s going to increase because of the economy,� says Sain. “First, no one has all that time off and people are more reluctant to take time off, especially in a down economy. So the ability to package (a convention or meeting) together with your family puts Orlando in a very strong position.�

Orlando boasts nearly 450 hotels and some 112,000 rooms. Of that, nearly 7,600 rooms are within walking distance of the Orange County Convention Center and its 2.1 million square feet of meeting space, site of golf’s annual PGA Merchandise show each January.

All these choices let meeting planners find just the right room and right price for their clients.

So, if the weather, the facilities and extras can’t tip the scales for Orlando, there’s finally the green card.

The Orange County Convention Center is ISO 14001-certified for its recycling program, the first facility of its kind in the U.S. to earn the designation. As well, the facility is developing a solar energy project.

The OCCC is not alone when it comes to doing its part for the environment. Many of Orlando’s convention hotels and resorts have been admitted to the Florida Green Lodging Program by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

At the end of the day, Orlando has it all.

If Orlando thrilled you as a child, prepare to experience that feeling one more time. If it’s a first-time visit that lies ahead, prepare to feel like a kid again.

Reg i o n al P r o f i le

plaza profiles Claude Lemieux NHL Legend 4-Time Stanley Cup Champion

“The Scottsdale Plaza has more awards than I’ve got fingers.”

Claude Lemieux is a winner – and he’s got the rings to prove it. As one of the greatest players in NHL history, Claude has won four Stanley Cup Championships in his acclaimed 20-year career. Like Claude, The Scottsdale Plaza Resort has received many awards for exceptional, crowd-pleasing performance, including M&C’s Gold Key Award 18 times and the Award of Excellence 24 times. About the service: “Fantastic. The staff has all the right moves.”

The food: “Championship dining, all the way.” The leisure activities: “The Plaza lets me play at a pro level.” For over 33 years, we have provided businesses, large and small, with all-star service. Our winning team will make your next conference or meeting a crowning event.

800-306-0059 · www.meetatplaza.com · Scottsdale, Arizona

(Full Page – non-bleed: 7.25 x 10”) – USE THIS AD FOR A RIGHT HAND PAGE POSITION

Canadian Gaming Summit Caesars Windsor the perfect host

40 | May/June 2009

Judging from the attendance at the 13th a n nu a l C a n ad i a n Gaming Summit, the industry is holding its own!

The Summit is owned and operated by The Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) and MediaEdge Communications. This annual event brings together delegates, educators and suppliers from all gaming sectors, disciplines and regions in Canada and around the world. The Summit remains Canada’s only gaming conference and exhibition and attracts more than 1,000 attendees.

A decision was made shortly after the 2008 event to hold the Summit at the newly renovated Caesars Windsor. The venue is spectacular and overlooks the riverfront trails of the Windsor waterf ront wit h t he Det roit cosmopolita n sk yl i ne prov id i ng a n a m a zi ng back drop. Caesars Windsor defines modern luxury in the midst of timeless elegance.

With beautifully appointed hotel towers totaling 800 rooms and more than 100,000 square feet of state-of-the-art convention space, Caesars Windsor is the largest and arguably the most indulgent casino resort in Canada.

Brian Munson, vice-president, resort operations at Caesars Windsor, says the seeds for the 2009 Summit were planted more than a year ago when he and Chuck Nervick, vicepresident at MediaEdge, toured the yet to be completed conference facilities.

“It really was a true team effort with our Caesars sales and catering team working with MediaEdge on the logistics of setting the trade show, the numerous meeting room and function requirements,” he says.

“This began when the facility was not even completed and we wo rk e d w it h blueprints and CAD drawings.”

MediaEdge’s Nervick lists the professional staff and convenient layout of the facility as some of the many positive attributes related to the success of the event.

“Everything was so seamless” he says.

“Without a doubt it was the best organized and smoothest Summit from start to finish that we have ever done.”

The Summit featured a number of enhancements and new additions that made the event the biggest ever. Since acquiring it in 2006, the CGA and MediaEdge have strived to

substantially increase the variety and quality of the education components of the event, with particular focus on how gaming is conducted in Canada and how developments from around t he world i mpact Canadian gaming.

Beyond the significant increases to the educational programs, the event owners have also added a number of new networking receptions and special events. All in all, the Summit has changed dramatically in just three short years.

Th e 2 0 0 9 S u m m i t presented its most complete conference program to date, prov id i ng at te nde e s with excellent educat ional benefits. Wit h more t h a n 70 sessions offered, the sessions and roundtables provided an unparalleled learning experience. Working with various industry program advisory committees, it produced a series of new conference tracks including -- Food and Beverage, Marketing and Entertain ment, Communications and Public Relations, Innovation in Gaming and more.

“With all of the event additions and changes we were a little nervous taking the event into a new facility,” says Nervick. “It did not take long to see that we had made the right decision. As exhibitors unloaded literally hundreds of slot machines off large trucks, we saw first-hand that the move-in was not only faster than any previous event, but it was also convenient for exhibitors. There were no negative comments related to the move-in or move-out which is always a bonus.”

The Summit’s exhibition floor displayed all of the industry’s newest and hottest products and services and provided interaction between suppliers and senior-level decision makers who are directly involved in purchasing gaming-related products and services.

Many of the largest slot machine manufacturers also participated and introduced neverbefore seen slot machines and other gaming equipment that were displayed on the actual gaming floor inside the casino. This was an added bonus for Summit delegates and created a lot of excitement.

The exhibition floor fit beautifully inside the facility’s Coliseum entertainment complex. After a smooth move-in, red carpet

was added to the aisles creating a casino-like atmosphere that made the floor appearance inviting to all delegates.

“The 2009 event was a huge success from a number of different perspectives and Caesars Windsor was the perfect host,” says Nervick.

“The convenience of having the hotel rooms, the event registration desk, the exhibit floor and all session and special event rooms in close proximity to each other made it easier on everyone.”

“It was also an added bonus to be close to the actual gaming floor. We have run hundreds of different events across Canada in many different venues and Caesars Windsor was without a doubt the most convenient space we have ever held an event in.”

In addition to the summit’s education program and exhibition, delegates enjoyed many different networking opportunities and social events, most of which were held inside Caesars Windsor.

The Summit’s Opening Reception was held on the first evening of the event.

Delegates had the opportunity to catch up with colleagues and enjoy great food, and drink inside the relaxed atmosphere of the Augustus Ballroom.

Day two included a beautiful opening breakfast, a full day of conference sessions, a lunch and even a cocktail reception on the exhibition floor which promoted interaction between delegates and exhibitors. The first Summit Soirée was also held that evening.

Delegates were entertained by a swirling collage of dancers, magicians, jugglers and mimes in an ultra-cool lounge setting. The atmosphere was go, go, go and the Augustus Ballroom again proved to be an amazing venue for a larger party!

The closing event of the Summit, the Awards Reception and Charit y Gala, honored a number of industry achievements. Aside from the award presentations and an amazing meal with beef tenderloin and salmon as the main entrée, the attendees were treated to an outstanding musical revue that celebrated 50 years of Motown and featured original members of the Miracles, Contours and Vandellas. The Motown beat had the audience dancing and singing well into the night.

“We were proud to be hosts of the 2009 Canadian Gaming Summit and hopefully one day in the future we will be considered as a site once again,” Munson says.

Corporate Meetings & Events | 41

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

Executive Chef Joan Monfaredi Serving Toronto a culinary touch

By Habeeb Salloum

T

The downtown Toronto hotel Park Hyatt Toronto, situated in the heart of the fashionable Yorkville area with its high-end retail stores, represents an abode of luxury. It offers elite residents and visitors alike its five-star Annona Restaurant. Diners have a fine view of Yorkville while they enjoy top-class dishes produced under the watchful eye of the hotel’s Executive Chef Joan Monfaredi, who is also responsible for the overall culinary direction of the Roof Lounge and all banquet functions in the hotel.

Chef Joan Monfaredi graduated from Red River College in Winnipeg and in the ensuing few years worked in various eating establishments, among which were a private club, hotel and restaurants before making the move to Toronto. In 1994, she began her culinary career in Toronto as Executive Chef at the Park Plaza before landing in her current position as Executive Chef at the Park Hyatt.

She was a member of Hyatt's culinar y Management Operation Review committee and, in 2002, was named “Chef of the Year” for Hyatt Hotels. Also, she was recognized as “Celebrity Chef” by the culinary institute at George Brown College, and as Chef of the Year in 2004 by the Ontario Hostelry Institute.

During the period of managing the kitchens at Toronto's Park Hyatt she has noted the food trends in the city which include: an increasing focus in eating and cooking; comfort food and healthy menu options; bite-size appetizers and tiny, club sandwiches as well as Cobb salads and steak, still rule the menu mix.

Chef Monfaredi focuses on simple yet true flavors of food with a refreshing and international flair. She wants guests to enjoy new recipes without wondering what exactly it is that they are eating.

This is because she believes that people can better

enjoy a dish when they understand it. As for her preference in food, “My favorite three dishes are ‘Braised Beef Short Ribs’, ‘Pan Roasted Sea Bass’ and ‘Chicken Ballotine’.”

Chef Monfaredi, who trains new chefs and supervises 59 chefs and other staff, has prepared menus for industry events such as California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's Economic Luncheon and others for many corporate events for companies in the pharmaceutical and financial sectors. For conferences, corporate groups and weddings, Chef Monfaredi has her own set menus that she offers customers. They can then make changes or additions. “The menu is customized to the clients’ wishes.”

She begins with the parameters of the group: budget, meal periods, time of year, group size, space they will be dining in and type of service required.

“First I identify the group's theme or special interest. Once I understand the group's requirements, I put together proposals,” she says.

She is enthusiastic about her work noting: “Being a chef is my career and lifestyle of choice and, for me, fulfilling. To be a chef you have to love it. One who takes it just as a job will be unhappy.”

When I asked her about the future she went on to say, “I love my work! The Hyatt is a large hotel chain and I intend to continue my career in this worldwide hotel chain.”

Her attachment to the Hyatt Hotels is well founded. Readers of Global Traveler Magazine in 2008 for the fifth consecutive year named the Park Hyatt brand hotels the ‘Best International Hotel Chain in the World’; and in that year readers of Conde Nast Traveler Magazine also named Park Hyatt Toronto one of Canada's top 30 Hotels.

“Being a chef is my career and lifestyle of choice and, for me, fulfilling. To be a chef you have to love it. One who takes it just as a job will be unhappy” 42 | May/June 2009

The New Convention Gateway

LINCOLN ALEXANDER CENTRE

The Inspiring Place To Meet Sales: 905.528-9546 www.cphamilton.com CROWNE PLAZA HAMILTON & LINCOLN ALEXANDER CENTRE Bringing hotel and convention facilities together under one roof

214 Guestrooms including eight suites 30,000sq.ft. of meeting space 2 ballrooms, several meeting rooms 370 seat theatre in the Lincoln Alexander Centre

AV Insight Lighting sets the mood

By Ralph Niekamp

L

Lighting plays a key role in setting the mood of a room. Studies have found that red is energetic, blue is calming and orange is warm and enthusiastic.

Many event planners use lighting scene changes to help shape the mood of the room throughout the day.

While there are many different types of lighting instruments, “wash” and “beam” are still the two basic types of lights.

Wash lighting delivers a dif fuse light that illuminates general areas. There are theatrical instruments that are specifically designed to produce wash lighting. A ballroom’s chandelier is also an example of a wash light. Beam light, as the name suggests, produces a defined beam of light and is used to illuminate an object such as a keynote presenter and podium or an award that will be presented.

When conducting site inspections, be sure to check the venue’s lighting features.

What types of lights are available? What custom changes are easily made and how are they controlled? Even a room that does not have theatrical style instruments can have many options with which to work.

What wash instruments are available? Are there any beam lighting instruments? If there are, can they be adjusted or are they set to a predetermined spot? Is there a central controller with pre-determined room set-ups that enable you to change quickly?

Consult with the venue and your AV company if you want to add additional lighting. Many venues do not have professional theatrical lighting instruments but they may have a lighting bar installed or are able to hang truss from their ceiling.

Electrical power availability is also an important lighting consideration as many lighting systems do not use conventional power outlets.

44 | May/June 2009

Traditional lighting instruments throw color light by inserting a “gel” into a frame. To day many lightin g in s tr ument s can change color on their own and can be controlled by an AV technician.

LED lights are the latest technological advancement in lighting. (See picture LED wa s h li ghtin g in s t r u m e nt) T h e s e programmable lights are set up near a wall or drape and throw “up lighting” changing the color of the surface. Besides being able to actively change color, they are environmentally friendly as they use very little electricity and produce very little heat when compared with traditional lighting.

Modern beam lights are often robotic in that they can swivel, producing the “Hollywood” roving spotlight effect. These lights can be programmed to focus on different locations in the room. For example, an awards show can utilize two podiums and the robo-lights move from one podium to the other at the touch of a button. (See picture robotic beam lighting instrument) Gobos are used to create a pattern out of light. Traditionally, a gobo is cut out of sheet metal and inserted into a frame on the lighting instrument. The sheet metal blocks the light from passing through so that a pattern of light is displayed. A theatre group would use a gobo to quickly add a window to a previously blank wall. Many corporations

have their logo cut into a gobo and project it on a wall, floor or stage backdrop.

Once you understand what lighting is possible with the venue’s system you should consult with your AV supplier and discuss any additional lighting equipment you may need to set the mood and add some visual excitement to your event.

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.

CM&E Marketplace caesars windsor - see ad on page 27 Caesars Windsor 2IVERSIDE $R % 7INDSOR /. s s WWW CAESARSWINDSOR COM #AESARS 7INDSOR THE LARGEST CASINO RESORT IN #ANADA LOCATED ON A PICTURESQUE RIVERFRONT OFFERS 6EGAS STYLE ENTERTAINMENT ONLY FIFTEEN MINUTES FROM THE 5 3 BORDER &OUR DIAMOND ACCOMODATIONS ARE OFFERED IN TWO TOWERS WITH ROOMS A

SEAT THEATRE FEATURES HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT THERE ARE SIX DELECTABLE CASUAL AND FINE DINING RESTAURANTS WITH TWO FLOORS OF NON STOP GAMING ACTION AND SQUARE FEET OF CONVENTION SPACE 6ISIT WWW CAESARSWINDORS COM OR CALL

holiday inn - see ad on page inside front cover On your next meeting EARN UP TO 60,000* POINTS. Enroll now in Priority ClubÂŽ Meeting Rewards and start earning points with every qualified meeting you hold at more than 900 Holiday InnÂŽ hotels in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico*. s %ARN MORE POINTS FOR YOUR GROUP OR MEETING s &ASTER WAY TO %LITE STATUS s -ORE REDEMPTION OPTIONS Go to www.holidayinn.com/meetingrewards to enroll and start earning rewards.

Contact Swati.Ettrick@ihg.com or call 1-877-904-MEET for groups/events with 10 or more guest rooms peak night!

Nav canada - see ad on page 16 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

northlands- see ad on page Inside Back cover 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 meeting space.

Any event, any time, we are ready for your business. Book your next conference, trade show or meeting at Northlands, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada 4OLL &REE s 0HONE s % MAIL SALESINFO NORTHLANDS COM s 7EBSITE WWW NORTHLANDS COM

sheraton centre toronto - see ad on page 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.

the scottsdale plaza resort - see ad on page 39 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.

Corporate Meetings & Events  |  45

CM&E Marketplace city of thunder bay - see ad on page 37 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.

vancouver aquarium- see ad on page 11 Vancouver Aquarium Catering & Events Engaging, amazing, inspiring. Voted one of Canada’s best-loved attractions, the Vancouver Aquarium is an intriguing and unforgettable venue for your next special event. From formal dining among majestic beluga whales to cocktail receptions in a living art gallery-style setting, the Aquarium offers stunning seascape backdrops for 50–1,200 guests. As part of our Ocean Wise program, the Aquarium provides only sustainable seafood menus from our chef's culinary creations. By hosting your event at the Vancouver Aquarium, your group supports the Aquarium’s conservation, education and research initiatives.

Ph. 604.659.3456 cateringandevents@vanaqua.org www.vanaqua.org/cateringandevents

wtcc halifax - see ad on page 7 Halifax, Nova Scotia was designed to host conventions. It's no wonder CNN named it as one of North America's 12 perfect places!

Conference attendees of the World Trade and Convention Centre have access to 100,000 square feet of convention and exhibition space right from their own hotel rooms! Over 1,000 hotel rooms are connected to the Convention Centre through pedways. And Halifax International Airport is the closest airport to Europe and also offers Pre-Clearance to the United States with connections to major cities in Canada and the US. We invite you to contact our team: (902) 421-8686 sales@tradecentrelimited.com www.wtcchalifax.com

Advertisers Index Best Western....................................................................................................................4

Scottsdale Plaza..........................................................................................................39

Caesars Windsor........................................................................................................ 27

Sheraton Convention Center.................................................Outside Back Cover

Calgary Convention Center.....................................................................................17

Tourism Thunder Bay................................................................................................. 37

Crowne Plaza Lincoln................................................................................................43

Vancouver Aquarium..................................................................................................11

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

Winnipeg Convention Center................................................................................. 21

Minto Suite Hotel.........................................................................................................38

Woodbine Entertainment Group............................................................................31

NAV Canada................................................................................................................ 16

WTCC Halifax..................................................................................................................7

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

York Region..............................................................................................................32-33

46 | May/June 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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