Niagara Falls meetinGs destination maGaZine naturally fun play is for everyone
naturally captiVatinG
exploring niagara’s Wineries
naturally tasty
niagara’s bounty
naturally accessible
getting to, from, and around niagara
+ planners map
Convention Development Fund
Learn how you may qualify to RECEIVE at least
$10,000
in MEETING INCENTIVES*
26,000 sq.ft. Flexible Meeting & Pre-Function Space
+ 5,000 hotel rooms Minutes from our doorsteps!
365 days
Niagara is the perfect year-round meeting destination!
82,000
sq.ft.
Free-Span Exhibit Hall. — Niagara’s Largest!
1,000 seat
Fallsview Theatre
SCCNIAGARA
fallsconventions.com *Some restrictions apply. Contact us for details!
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Indulge in Everything New
11 5 14 CHOICE No.
A $3 million guestroom renewal
CHOICE No.
Newly renovated state of the art meeting space
New and expanded Fallsview Spa and Club Lounge
NIAGARA FALLS FALLSVIEW Meetings Like Nowhere Else!
CHOICE No.
905 374 4444 fallsavenueresort.com
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Cover Stories 12 Naturally Tasty Niagara’s Bounty
63 Naturally Accessible Getting to, from, and around Niagara
30 Naturally Fun Play is for everyone
36 Naturally Captivating Exploring Niagara’s Wineries
In Magazine 16 Hornblower 21 Naturally Enticing 22 Naturally Creative 26 Naturally Exhilerating 34 Naturally Networked 36 Naturally Captivating 40 Naturally Talented 42 Naturally Niagara Delegate Gifts 46 Naturally Resourceful 50 Niagara’s Exhibition Halls 54 It’s Easier to Meet in Niagara 56 Highlights: The PCMA 58 Niagara by the Numbers 60 Naturally Tempting 63 Naturally Accessible
If you would like to advertise please call Local: 905.356.7283 Toll Free: 1.877.888.2825 Web: revpublishing.com Email: info@revpublishing.com
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Publisher: Rev Publishing Inc President & CEO: Daniel Pasco V.P of Sales & Marketing: Nicole Guerin Managing Editor: Megan Pasche
Creative Director: Ashley Calla Advertising Designer: Nikolas Karpetas Social Media & Marketing: Nicholas D. Gentilcore
5400 Robinson St, Niagara Falls, ON fallsmeetings.com 1-800-563-2557
WORDS OF WELCOME Greetings!
Look like a hero with record conference attendance, simply by choosing the world's most famous address...Niagara Falls! We have recently built Scotiabank Convention Centre, as well as a wide range of meeting spaces and first class accommodations, all connected with our brand new WEGO transportation system. As a preferred destination, Niagara offers a smorgasbord of entertainment options for your delegates and companions. From two incredible casinos to amazing golf courses, shopping, dining, waterparks, theatre and award winning wineries: the list of fun is endless. Find out why 12 million people choose Niagara Falls as a part of their vacation and conference plans annually and expect to come early and stay late! Yours to enjoy! Jim Diodati, Niagara Falls Mayor
Niagara Falls Plays Host to the Best Meetings…
Niagara Falls, without a doubt, is the most well-known and exciting address in the world! Packed with attractions, world-class hotels and dining, exciting nightlife and family adventure, Niagara Falls is perfectly positioned to host highly productive business gatherings. And because the city is constantly reinventing itself and improving, no two meeting experiences are ever the same. It’s no wonder that delegates are so eager to visit Niagara Falls, and bring along their families and partners so that everyone can enjoy all the fun and excitement the city has to offer. For grown-ups we have upscale hotels, modern casinos, nightlife and concerts, fine dining, golf courses and spas, and wine country is just down the road. For children, Niagara Falls is a veritable theme park with the Skylon Tower, water parks inside hotels, a Ferris wheel, kid-friendly restaurants, the Butterfly Conservatory, Marineland and let’s not forget the Falls! From the cruises with Hornblower Niagara to the Journey Behind the Falls, there are plenty of ways to experience this great wonder of the world. What better way to energize your meeting, event or convention than by taking inspiration from the incredible power of the Falls? It’s easy to do business here and, with more than 16,000 guestrooms, the city can accommodate groups of any size and has the flexibility to work within any meeting budget. Situated just 20 minutes from Buffalo International Airport and an hour from the Toronto area, a Niagara Falls meeting is easy to get to and fun to plan. All of these stellar attributes convinced the Canadian Association of Society Executives to hold their 2014 Conference and the Canadian Tourism Commission to bring their iconic Rendez-Vous Canada to Niagara Falls in 2015. Niagara Falls will also impress YOU with its diverse choice of unique and stylish meeting venues. Whether you prefer one of the international brand conferencing hotels, or any of Niagara’s independent venues, you’re certain to find just the right location to complement your program. Start your planning with Niagara Falls Tourism, we’ll introduce you to this rejuvenated Ontario meeting destination! Wayne Thomson, Chair, Niagara Falls Tourism
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We feature late-model mini-buses, coaches, town cars and SUV's, and can accommodate any size group for any occasion.
Niagara Airbus, with door-to-door airport shuttle services, began in 1988.
We are the leader in Airport Transportation in the Greater Niagara Region.
Call Us (905)-374-8111 For Custom Quotes Please Contact christinap@niagaraairbus.com 6
airsales@niagaraairbus.com | www.niagraairbus.com | 8626 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2H 1H4
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Great ideas born here. Connect | Collaborate | Create
20,000 sq ft of conference space for 5 to 1,000 delegates • 200 guest rooms and suites Complete meeting packages from $129 per person ~ luxurious accommodations, three full meals, meeting room, continuous coffee break station and more
Niagara Falls ON
MeetingNiagara.com • 1-866-241-2189 www.niagarafallstourism.com
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Niagara Falls Tourism Meeting Planner Magazine • 8” x 5.45” • Nov 2013
Where the little things mean everything.™ Single point of contact, personalized service and a choice of food, all delivered in a local Frank Lloyd Wright inspired environment. 224 guestrooms/suites with views, 10,000 sq. ft. of event space you can own, complimentary wired & wireless WiFi. Green key eco-rating. Call us today to book your memorable event. 6039 Fallsview Boulevard Niagara Falls, Ontario L2G 3V6 (905) 358 3817 | niagarafallsdoubletree.com
Work is the curse of the drinking classes. – Oscar Wilde
For your next corporate party, social event or just a friendly pint. 300 person capacity/ 250 seats with Outdoor Patio
A Taste of Ireland Right Here in Niagara Falls Inside the Best Western Plus Cairn Croft Hotel 6400 Lundys Lane, Niagara Falls, ON
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FIND US AT
www.docmagilligans.com 1-800-263-2551
TOP REASONS TO CHOOSE
NIAGARA FALLS For your next meeting or conference:
• The Niagara Falls Tourism team has a wealth of experience and expertise and is ready and available to help you plan the perfect event. • Venues that provide productive exhibit space. • Mouth watering conference food choices. • An abundance of wineries just waiting to be visited. • A wide array of cultural activities and performances to choose from. • Tons of amazing, jaw dropping attractions that will bring guests up close and personal with Niagara Falls. • Fun activities for all ages! • A large number of amazing venues to choose from. • Lively nightlife for networking. • Great shopping and great deals! • Top-notch local professional speakers. • Unique delegate gifts. • Extremely easy to get to, from and around. Read on to find out exactly why you should choose Niagara Falls!
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A proud member of
Committed to offering the public the finest golf value in Ontario Open to the public
• Magnificent 27-hole course of international standing • Host site of the 2003 Telus Skins Game, featuring VJ Singh, John Daly, Sergio Garcia, and Ian Leggatt • Clubhouse and catering services available for corporate meetings, tournaments, weddings and private parties • Located between the historic 120-year-old Welland Canal, breathtaking Bruce Trail and the Niagara Escarpment
Royal Niagara Golf Club 1 Niagara-on-the-Green Blvd Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0 Call us at 905-685-9501 or toll-free at 866-ROYAL18
KaneffGolf.com
HOME of the NFT 2014 Annual Golf Tournament – May 21st, 2014
Other KaneffGolf properties include:
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Lionhead G&CC Brampton www.niagarafallstourism.com
Royal Ontario GC Milton
Carlisle G&CC Carlisle
Century Pines GC Hamilton
Streetsville Glen GC Brampton
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Seafood Tower by Fallsview Casino
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Fallsview Casino
NATURALLY TASTY Niagara’s Bounty
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ore and more, Niagara is becoming known for not just our waterfall and wine, but our food as well. Being situated in the Greenbelt gives the chefs in the area access to everything local. Local equals fresh, and that is a difference you can taste in every bite. Niagara has attracted some of the most talented chefs in the country and they have the ability to craft unforgettable meals, be it for five people, or five hundred people.
We caught up with some of the area’s top chefs to chat all about their individual approaches to creating delicious convention food. Chefs we talked to included: Chef Paul Pennock, Director and Corporate Chef at the Niagara Parks Commission, Chef Elbert Wiersma from Elements on the Falls Restaurant, Chef Shaun Goswell, Executive Chef at the Scotiabank Convention Centre, Chef Ron Kneabone, Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director at the Terrapin Grill and Niagara Fallsview Marriott, Executive Chef Ray Taylor from the Fallsview Casino Resort, Executive Chef Michael Price from White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa and Chef Ross Midgley, Chef de Cuisine at Windows by Jamie Kennedy.
WHAT KIND OF THINGS DO YOU LOOK AT WHEN YOU ARE BEGINNING TO PLAN A MEAL FOR A LARGE NUMBER OF PEOPLE? Chefs Paul Pennock and Elbert Wiersma: “First and foremost we like to find out where our guests are from, what type of meal they want (i.e. buffet, sit-down, stand-up reception) and pair VQA wines and local fare into their menus. We also want to make sure that if they have other culinary events, that we do not replicate items that get offered at other venues. The focus is to give them a unique experience with the wealth of products our region has to offer.” Chef Shaun Goswell: “Planning any type of meal, whether it’s for a large group or a small gathering gets me thinking about a number of things. The first is, what season is the event taking place in? This helps me narrow down a list of ingredients that will be in season and thus at their prime in flavour. After this, I think about the complexity of the menu, and the amount of preparation that I need to build. This finally leads me to think about execution and presentation, and how I may need to allow for my team to gain additional training so they can best deliver a successful culinary experience.”
Chef Ron Kneabone: “The first thing that is always most important, is budget. What the customer has got in mind and what the customer wants. We like to custom create every menu here. We love to sit down with the guests and discuss things like how many people, what are their expectations, what they would like to see, etc.” Chef Ray Taylor: “A consistent fresh food product, that can be supplied for large functions, food that is unique and tasty, but is not too difficult to execute, food that can be enjoyed by everyone.” Chef Michael Price: “We look at what season it is so we can adjust our menu to what is available. I always like to consider the room that our guests will be dining in as that can affect the timing of courses or the flow of the meal depending on whether it is a plated or buffet meal. Another huge factor is what kind of a group it is and who will be dining with us, for example, will there be a lot of special requests or allergies? We work with that information to suit the needs of our guests.” Chef Ross Midgley: “At Windows, we are heavily guided by the season, and the menu gets changed every six weeks or so, depending on the growing season in Niagara…so much grows here in Niagara, that that becomes the focus of what www.niagarafallstourism.com
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we do. If we have a large group coming in, I’ll send along a menu and say, ‘ok, you are coming in June and June is asparagus, strawberries, etc.’. Because I’ve done this for 15 years in Niagara, I’m really comfortable with how the seasons change. I just try and keep open communication with the conveners, and if that means several phone calls over a day to really lock in the menu, so that I know that I am representing the best of Niagara, that’s what I do.”
Chef Ron Kneabone: “I’m not going to say we are only local…we are too big, we go through too much produce. We do the best product that is available locally, when it’s available. We try to incorporate the best we can, to our limits. Wine is the exception. Last year when I changed my wine menu, it was to 85% VQA, 15% international.
HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE LOCAL FOODS INTO YOUR MENU ON A YEAR-ROUND BASIS?
Chef Michael Price: “We use as much local food as possible all year round. In the summer months, we have a constant supply of produce and we love to highlight Niagara’s bounty as it comes into season. One of my favourites is a beautiful peach mousse which I find a big hit for a dinner of 500 and of course, chilled strawberry soup, a Niagara salad or steamed farm picked vegetables. In the off seasons, we use apples, pears, squash, parsnips, local jams, cheese and maple syrup to name a few as well as some amazing local fish and meats.”
Chefs Paul Pennock and Elbert Wiersma: “We specify Foodland Ontario and local suppliers. During the off-season, we have no other choice than to source certain items from other imports. All our meat and poultry is Canadian sourced and raised. We work with a seasonal “Calendar of Features” focused on what fresh produce is in season.” Chef Shaun Goswell: “Partnering with local farmers is an important part of our success. Our year-round relationship with Niagara suppliers ensures the availability and quality of the ingredients in our menus. During the summer months, I take advantage of the region’s abundance of fresh fruit and produce. My team and I take to canning berries, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes (and many others), sealing their flavours for other times of the year when they are not available. Our on-site garden plays an important part in incorporating local flavours. We have an in-house horticulturalist who works with me to design and plan what we’ll be producing during the growing season and timing the harvesting of vegetables and herbs to coincide with scheduled events.”
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Chef Ray Taylor: “By getting monthly updates of fresh products from local vendors, and preserving items in the summer for the winter menus.”
Chef Ross Midgley: “That is our absolute focus. I think of it in concentric circles. So Niagara first, Ontario second, Canada third. Those rings can overlap. Another thing we do to stretch the local produce during the year, as the growing seasons go through, we’ll take those items and can a lot of them here.” HOW DO YOU COOK MEALS FOR LARGE VOLUMES OF PEOPLE WITHOUT SACRIFICING TASTE AND QUALITY? Chefs Paul Pennock and Elbert Wiersma: “Just timed cooking, keep cooking and holding times short, making sure that sauces are flavoured correctly and to perfection. Also we ask our clients to pre choose their entrée in order for us to precisely cook their requested meals. In
addition, we do encourage our larger groups to opt for food stations giving us the opportunity to cook to order and feature and pair our VQA wines. We have done functions up to 1500 using our entire facility, this will make for more informal and diverse offerings for our guests.” Chef Shaun Goswell: “First, I keep flavours in season. My menu design takes advantage of the dynamic complexity of flavours, colours and textures constantly changing throughout the year. Secondly, I only source high quality local ingredients. A dish is only as good as the ingredients you use. Third, I plan ahead; this way, my ingredients are ordered well in advance ensuring that they are as fresh as possible closer to the events date.” Chef Ron Kneabone: “Everything is homemade here, everything. We don’t go to the frozen product. We don’t go to premade product. Everything is made fresh and to order. Or course, for banquets, we need to do a little bit of prep ahead of time. Anybody that tells you that you can’t take a recipe for five and adapt it for 500 is a liar. Or they are not very good at what they do; those recipes can be adapted and that is what we do. We never say no here. If the customer is willing to pay the price and to adapt to the seasons, we can do anything.” Chef Ray Taylor: “Treat the ingredients with integrity. Have the least amount of handling and shortest time from the garden to the plate to protect the quality of the food. The timing throughout the event is the most crucial element. Planning the event well in advance is also a key to success.” Chef Michael Price: “It truly is a challenge to cook for large amounts of people. We make almost everything we serve at White Oaks from
scratch and we cook everything to the minute to deliver the freshest and most flavourful food possible. Cooking for several large groups at a time, takes experience, excellent training and of course, an amazing team of dedicated individuals with a passion for excellence.”
about the atmosphere at your dinner or awards banquet, before we worry about the presentation or slide shows. You are coming to Niagara Falls because you want to experience Niagara. We are going to make you experience Niagara Falls while you have a meeting.”
Chef Ross Midley: “Really, it’s just designing a menu around the fact that it’s big. If you know in advance that you are making 300 portions of a chicken dish, it can be as elegant as if you are preparing a dish from an a-la-carte menu.”
Chef Ray Taylor: “We value the freshness of the ingredient, and executing the fine dining experience in a conference environment.”
Chef Shaun Goswell: “At the Scotiabank Convention Centre, we stay away from many of the norms that most conventions and meetings facilities get trapped by. My team and I devote great attention and energy to planning and executing each and every meal. At every stage of the process, we choose not to cut corners because we believe that our clients will taste the difference. We deliver a boutique style service as if you’re at a restaurant, where flavours, aromas and presentation combine to create a unique culinary experience.”
Chef Michael Price: “I would say our food blows away typical conference food. There are a few no-no’s at White Oaks which I think really contribute to the typical conference type meal that is served in many other places. We do not use hot boxes, steam tables or re-therm ovens where you pre-plate the meal, put it in the fridge, and then re-heat it just before service. All of these cooking styles to me are not truly cooking and is something that I would never put my name on. Of course, not using these convenience techniques and cooking fresh is far more work, however when you are passionate about food and want to be proud of what you produce, this becomes an easy decision. Our guests always rave about the quality of our meals and I am confident that is directly related to our culinary technique. The food we provide for our guests absolutely lives up to the luxury brand that is White Oaks Resort. It is one of the things I am most proud of as an Executive Chef.
Chef Ron Kneabone: “For typical conference food, they usually start at the end instead of starting at the beginning. We start with our recipes and adapt them to the conferences. Typical conference food starts with the conference and food is an addition. Here, the food is our cornerstone. If you are coming in for a conference of 100 people, we worry about your breaks, before we worry about your meetings. We worry
Chef Ross Midgley: “I would say just because I’m an a-la-carte chef, I’m used to creating individual plates and I’ve learned a way to bring that to larger conferences and bigger functions. I think that every step that is taken out of the preparation in the actual kitchen reflects in the plate. Ultimately, there is a pride in knowing we cooked for 300 people the same way we would cook for three people. Really, there is no differ-
HOW WOULD YOU SAY YOUR FOOD DIFFERS FROM TYPICAL CONFERENCE FOOD? Chefs Paul Pennock and Elbert Wiersma: “We customize all of our corporate menus based on the clients needs and requests so all of our groups are treated individually.”
ence to us.” WHAT WOULD YOU SAY YOUR COOKING PHILOSOPHY IS? Chefs Paul Pennock and Elbert Wiersma: “Fresh, good quality ingredients, local wherever possible, do not complicate flavours.” Chef Shaun Goswell: “Use what nature gives you. Being mindful of the changing season and what’s being produced by local farmers will always allow you a wide breadth of creativity.” Chef Ron Kneabone: “Don’t cheat the guest. Don’t skimp out on the portions or plate size.” Chef Ray Taylor: “Every meal should create a lasting memory and experience for the customer.” Chef Michael Price: “My cooking philosophy is to always serve the best possible food in the most innovative way to our guests that is of the highest quality, presented beautifully using local ingredients and creative flair.” Chef Ross Midgley: “I believe it’s really important to immerse yourself fully in the ingredients. Personally I use all my senses in cooking. It’s important to taste, taste, taste as you go along.” PHOTO CAPTIONS LEFT TO RIGHT: Niagara Wild Foraged Salad with Smoked Pickerel. Locally picked wild leeks. Wild mustard greens, in house smoked pickeral. Tuna or is it? Spring vegetable vinaigrette, crispy egg yolk, sorrel and asparagus. Everspring Duck. Warner’s Farm peaches, fennel leaves, potato, fennel puree and duck sauce. Photos Courtesy of Scotiabank Convention Centre.
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Fully Licensed Sunset Cocktail Cruises
Hornblower Landing
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Fully Licensed Falls Fireworks Cruises
Fully Licensed Falls Illumination Cruises
EVENTS NEVER LOOKED THIS GOOD
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he legendary Falls boat tour has been thrilling visitors for more than 150 years. Now conference, meeting and event delegates can make their next Niagara event truly spectacular with a Hornblower Niagara Cruise. Hornblower’s new state-of-the-art catamaran boats promise a truly extraordinary experience to compliment any Niagara Falls gathering. Hornblower’s new evening and night-time extended one-hour experiences offer a unique venue for that one-of-a-kind Niagara Falls event. Complete with onboard licensed bars, snacks and music, Hornblower cruises are sure to be the highlight of any special occasion. New Sunset Cocktail Cruises are set to evening sunsets, twilight skies and amazing Falls views
and promise to inspire and amaze. Guests can savor fine Niagara wines and cocktails while cruising the Niagara river and the Great Gorge in the comfort of our dry-viewing areas and experience once-in-a-lifetime up-close views of the mighty Falls that only Hornblower can deliver. For that added touch of Niagara excitement Hornblower offers the ultimate with all new Falls Illumination and Falls Fireworks nighttime cruises. Guests will be astonished and amazed by the colored lighting of the Falls, dazzling city skyline and breathtaking Falls Fireworks spectacle. These extraordinary cruises include all the comforts and conveniences of on-board licensed bars, snacks, music and nighttime animation.
Hornblower also offers fully customized and catered private charters. Whatever the occasion or event, Hornblower specializes in gatherings of any kind. Whether it’s a formal company event, connecting with colleagues, shared experiences or just escaping to the tranquility and beauty of the majestic Falls, Hornblower boat tours and cruises will truly inspire and astonish. Hornblower has been creating amazing experiences for more than 30 years. And there’s no more breathtaking backdrop to any event or special occasion than the splendor and majesty of the mighty Falls. Overflowing with excitement and amazement, Hornblower promises to make any Niagara visit a thundering success. Visitors should be sure to add a Hornblower Niagara Cruise experience to every Niagara Falls event. www.niagarafallstourism.com
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IN THE HEART OF
NIAGARA’S GLORIOUS WINE REGION
Travelling on business or leisure, relax in our indoor pool, whirlpool and steam room while staying fit in our onsite fitness center. Special group and corporate rates are available upon request. Dine with us daily in The Great North American Grill for a deluxe garden breakfast buffet, lunch and dinner.
500 York Rd. NOTL, ON, Canada T. 905.984.4200 F. 905.984.4364
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www.thehiltongardeninn.com
NOT IF YOU’RE MEETING AT THE RIGHT PLACE! ONE WITH LIGHT-FILLED ROOMS, GARDEN VIEWS, ACCLAIMED SERVICE AND STELLAR FOOD. THE WHITE OAKS CONTINUOUS COFFEE BREAK IS FAMOUS FOR HEALTHY SNACKS AND DELISH TREATS [YEP, EVEN TOOTSIE POPS] TO FUEL YOUR INSPIRATION ALL DAY LONG. WWW.WHITEOAKSRESORT.COM 1.800.263.5766 www.niagarafallstourism.com
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YOUR ONE STOP SHOP for all of your promotional marketing and corporate apparel needs.
Preferred Supplier to Niagara Falls Tourism 610 Arvin Ave, Stoney Creek, ON, L8E 5P1 | t.905.635.0630 f. 866.868.3364 www.backspingroup.com
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NATURALLY ENTICING
The Host Destination Sponsorship Program As a true event partner, Niagara Falls Tourism is pleased to offer up to $10,000 with their in-kind sponsorship program for groups booking their business events in Niagara Falls. Q. WHAT DO YOU GET? A. Items that can be considered for in-kind sponsorship: • • • • •
Keynote speakers Speakers for education sessions Welcome wine receptions Local live entertainment Delegate welcome gifts that support Niagara as a destination • Meeting room rental subsidy Q. HOW DO YOU GET IT? A. Steps that must be taken in order to qualify you for this in-kind sponsorship:
• Your RFP must originate through Niagara Falls Tourism channels, along with their selected venue confirmed contracts. • Your contract must satisfy room night criteria as laid out by Niagara Falls Tourism. • The in-kind sponsorship is available for new business only. • In addition, the contract must include two or more Niagara Falls Tourism Member Venues. • The sponsorship program is not available during the months of July and August. Q. WHAT’S THE SMALL PRINT? A. Stipulations for in-kind sponsorship items, these include:
• Niagara Falls Tourism will be satisfying the components of the in-kind sponsorship by contracting selected services directly with their internal partners and/or suppliers. • Niagara Falls Tourism is not obligated to secure services outside of this scope perimeter. The team at Niagara Falls Tourism truly believes that the true meaning of the word “partnership” is where both parties share in risk and gain and that one size does not fit all. Therefore, for more information about the host destination in-kind sponsorship program and how the program can be best customized to your business event, please contact Niagara Falls Tourism directly by phone at 905.356.6061.
• Sponsorship items are not realized until the event is confirmed with a contract and deposit. • Niagara Falls Tourism will require documentation for internal auditing. www.niagarafallstourism.com
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NATURALLY CREATIVE
Taking in some live arts and culture
“Jive Talkin” at the Fallsview Casino Resort
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Shawn Wright as Nathan Detroit with the cast from Guys and Dolls at Shaw Festival.
DAVID COOPER
“The creative arts are the measure and reflection of our civilization. They offer an opportunity to see life with a larger perspective…the moral values we treasure are reflected in the beauty and truth that is emotionally transmitted through the arts. The arts say something about us to future generations.” Ann P. Kahn
T
he Niagara area is full of opportunities for groups to take in a little bit of culture. Going to see live performances help make people feel more connected to the cities they visit; and Niagara definitely has some worldclass arts and culture for everyone to enjoy. SHAW FESTIVAL THEATRE The Shaw Festival is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and according to their mandate, “the Shaw Festival is a theatre company inspired by the works of Bernard Shaw. We produce plays from and about his era and contemporary plays that share Shaw’s provocative exploration of society and celebration of humanity.” The plays of the Shaw Festival are presented in four different theatres, all with their own unique features: The Festival Theatre is the largest, and this is where the big productions, such as the musicals, are done. It seats 856, and also features a café, an outdoor patio and a retail shop. The Court House Theatre is a national historic site that was built in the 1840s. This building is where the Shaw Festival originally began. It features a thrust stage, and 327 seats. The Royal George Theatre is a sight to be seen, with its bright red walls and ornate golden lions. This theatre was originally built as a vaudeville house that was used to entertain the troops during WW1. These days, it is a 328-seat theatre. The Studio Theatre is located in the same area as the Festival Theatre. It is the Shaw’s most intimate setting, and seats 175. The Shaw Festival Theatre runs from April to October. In the winter months, they put on the
Shaw Festival Film Series, which screens various award winning films and documentaries. GREG FREWIN THEATRE This is one of the most exciting shows your group will catch while in Niagara Falls. It is a Las Vegas style magic revue show, starring one of the world’s best magicians, Greg Frewin. He’ll amaze visitors with his mind blowing magic tricks. The theatre seats more than 600, with several different price levels to choose from. There is also the option of partaking in a delicious buffet style dinner before the show. FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT The casino regularly gets world class superstar acts to light up their stage, year round, in their state of the art, 1500-seat theatre. They host over 250 shows a year, and past acts have included entertainers such as Ringo Starr, Jay Leno, Kelly Clarkson and more. If your group is looking for star power, make sure to check out who will be making an appearance at the Fallsview Casino. OH CANADA EH? DINNER THEATRE This all Canadian dinner show is a seven-time winner of “Niagara Falls Attraction of the Year”. It is located just a short distance away from the Niagara Falls tourism district. The Oh Canada Eh? show is performed from April until October every year, and highlights everything Canadian! During the rest of the year, there are a variety of other shows taking place. All of these venues offer group discounts, and make for perfect outings to add into your conference schedule. Each one has a very unique offering, every one of which guests are sure to enjoy, and which will help make their visit to Niagara a truly memorable one. www.niagarafallstourism.com
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Image courtesy of Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours
Image courtesy of the Niagara Parks Commission
NATURALLY EXHILARATING In|Over|Behind-Conquering the Majestic Falls
N
iagara Falls has always been one of the most exciting and beautiful sights in the world; and luckily for groups travelling to Niagara, there are a ton of different options available when it comes to getting up close and personal with the famous waterfall and the churning white water that surrounds it.These activities would make for the perfect outing either before or after the conference, and will let your guests experience Niagara Falls in a really spectacular and unique way. For the delegates that are travelling with family members, these activities can also be a great way for those family members to pass the time until the days of meetings are done. All of these attractions are perfect
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for groups and offer significant group discounts, provided the spot is booked ahead of time. JOURNEY BEHIND THE FALLS This attraction allows visitors to glimpse the mesmerizing waterfall from one of the most awe inspiring spots-behind it! The water is thunderous and there is a constant, lingering mist churned up by the sheer force of the water. This is an experience your guests won’t forget as they witness 2,800 cubic meters of water crashing down over the brink of the falls. Being that close to such a powerful force of nature is an amazing way to spend some free time.
Elevators will take guests deep down into the tunnels behind Niagara Falls, which then lead to portals through which the falls are viewable. There are also upper and lower observation decks, which provide extraordinary views of the falls. Everyone in the group is sure to be amazed by the beauty and power of the sight. Journey Behind the Falls is open year round (with the exception of the lower observation deck, which is closed during the winter due to icy conditions) WHITE WATER WALK This boardwalk winds along the edge of one of the wildest stretches of white water in the world! Groups will travel down 230 feet on an elevator,
Image courtesy of Niagara Helicopters
which takes them to the start of a 1000-foot boardwalk that is located directly next to the raging white water. This attraction is open from May to October. WHIRLPOOL AERO CAR This ride provides one of the most beautiful and breathtaking views your guests will find in the Niagara Region. An antique cable car soars over the Niagara Whirlpool, which is a phenomenon that sees the natural flow of water abruptly change direction, creating a swiftly moving whirlpool. The cable car makes a round trip of one kilometer, with the entire ride lasting ten minutes. It is open from March to November.
NIAGARA HELICOPTERS There is no better way to see Niagara Falls and the surrounding Region than by flying high above it and getting a birds eye view of not only the falls itself, but of the sprawling vineyards, farmland and towns that make up Niagara. Guests will love this absolutely thrilling, one-ofa-kind experience. Niagara Helicopters offers flights year-round. WHIRLPOOL JET BOAT TOURS If you want to give your guests a little bit more adventure, go for a spin on a Whirlpool Jet Boat. There is a choice between the wet jet and the jet dome boats; both are equally thrilling, one just
gets riders completely soaked! Everyone will have a blast speeding through Niagara’s Devil’s Hole Rapids. This is a great excursion for guests that have been sitting in meetings all day, and will give them a chance to get up, get outside and take the ride of their lives. Niagara Jet Boats runs from May until October. These excursions are the ideal way for your guests to explore the wilder side of Niagara Falls, one that stretches far beyond the border of the meeting rooms. These attractions are the most thrilling in the area; they provide unique experiences and one-of-a-kind views and are sure to help make the trip to Niagara Falls one guests won’t soon forget.
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e v a S ate D the
FAM 2015
TWO WEEKENDS TO CHOOSE FROM FIRE & ICE JANUARY
14-17
or
SPRING FLING APRIL - MAY
29-2
What’s the BEST way to experience a natural wonder? First hand – naturally. Niagara Falls — a naturally inspired destination for all your meeting & convention needs. Such a powerful backdrop can only inspire and produce powerful events. Come see for yourself. On behalf of Niagara Falls Tourism and its Regional Partners we invite you to experience Niagara Falls. How do you get here & what about returning home? No worries – Niagara Falls Tourism will coordinate your pick-up & departure working with our airline and ground transportation partners.
Visit Niagarafallstourism.com/fam to request your pass!
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Crock A Doodle, Niagara Falls
NATURALLY FUN Play is for Everyone
Clifton Hill Highlights for Groups: DINOSAUR MINI PUTT It’s the perfect place for co-workers to challenge each other in a mini-putt tournament, all while being surrounded by giant pre-historic dinosaurs that move and occasionally even roar. Dinosaur Adventure Golf has two 18-hole courses, appropriately named, “Raptor” and “T-Rex”. The courses are spread out over 70,000 square feet. STRIKE, ROCK N’BOWL This place is great for entertaining groups and features 14 full size 10 pin bowling lanes. The music pumps as bowlers compete either with or against each other. The bowling alley is located inside a full service Boston Pizza, so plenty of food and drinks are available. There is also billiards, hightech arcade games and racing simulators. CROCK A DOODLE This is the perfect place to have a unique team-building event. Let everyone express his or her creativity by doing some pottery painting. There are several different options available for groups.
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hen you are talking about fun, there is no better place to go in Niagara Falls then Clifton Hill, which is known as…the street of fun! It is full of lights, colour and sound: haunted houses, fun houses, rides, restaurants, mini putt, arcades, laser tag, bowling: there are so many fun activities, it’s hard to know where to start! Clifton Hill is fun for all ages, and makes the perfect playground for some team building activities. Team building is a great way to ensure that employees learn to work as a cohesive unit, and the most fun way to do this? Get out of the office. Meeting outside of the workplace allows team members to form stronger bonds and get a better understanding of their co-workers strengths and weaknesses. Natalie Lowe, President of Celebrate Niagara, an events company that specializes in organizing teaming events, mentions that, “team events let people interact with each other in new & unique situations. They learn about each other and take their relationship to a new level of trust and collaboration. The new relationship directly affects the interaction at work, helping people collaborate more and be more productive.” Natalie has planned numerous teaming events that have taken place on Clifton Hill, and she mentions three types of events she has organized in the past: “lunch and a scavenger hunt using the attractions on Clifton Hill, bowling, dinner and arcade fun at the Boston Pizza on
Clifton Hill, topped by the Skywheel and Dino-Mini Putt after dinner.” It helps to have a local expert around to help plan these types of events. Natalie relates that in order to plan a successful teaming event, the planner needs to know the area extremely well. Natalie also notes that the planner “needs to be logistically sound. It’s important to know how the timing and each activity will work”. Team event planners need to get to know the group that will be participating so that events can be tailored appropriately. Some groups may be quite laid back, while others are extremely competitive. There are so many different types of teaming events your guests can partake in, and all of them are available in the fun-filled Clifton Hill area. It can be as simple as a mini putt tournament, or get into a more formally organized activity, such as having teams participate in an Amazing Race style game up and down Clifton Hill, where they follow route markers, encounter road blocks and participate in challenges. This can be a great way for everyone to see and visit different parts of the area. Whatever it is you think your group will enjoy, Celebrate Niagara is available to help you plan the perfect, fun event for your employees, allowing them to be a part of one of the most excitement filled streets in the world: Clifton Hill.
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N i a g a r a P a r k s c o m m i s s i o n o w n e d & o p e r at e d
Signature
Convention entertainment
Conference Events at the Brink of the Falls Companion Tour Programmes Legendary Golf Outings VIP Programmes Themed Events Customized Falls Illumination
Legends on the Niagara Golf
Elements on the Falls Restaurant
The Niagara Parks Commission Convention Sales and Service Division 5881 Dunn Street, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada L2G 2N9 905.371.0252 conferenceinfo@niagaraparks.com niagaraparksMeetings.com
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Whirlpool Aero Car
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R5 at Fallsview Casino Resort
Doc Magilligan’s Restaurant and Irish Pub at the Best Western Plus Cairn Croft
NATURALLY NETWORKED Meetings After Dark
Niagara Fall’s Hottest Irish Pub You can step right into Ireland at one of Niagara Falls newest places to network: Doc Magilligan’s Restaurant and Irish Pub. It is located at the Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel on Lundy’s Lane, and it’s darkened nooks and crannies make for great spots for groups to gather. It is a one-of-a-kind Irish pub, finished with Victorian-era inspired décor. All the pieces were made in Ireland and then shipped over to Niagara. The beer, the food (which is all fresh and local), and the atmosphere: this place is the real deal and is not to be missed.
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N
iagara Falls is full of opportunities for delegates to get out and network after the days of meetings and presentations are over. Whatever your group wants to do whether it is dancing at a club, hanging out in a cozy pub or listening to a live band, there is a spot in Niagara Falls for it to happen. Networking is important for conference delegates, as it allows them to share stories, successes, ask for advice, and bond over their shared experiences at a company. All of these places provide optimal spots for networking and social functions: Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville is located right on Fallsview Blvd and is perfect for a fun and casual evening, complete with a laid-back island vibe. The Fallsview Casino has several bars and lounges that are great for kicking back and relaxing. The 365 Club is a beautiful bar that opens up right to the casino gaming floor. Live music happens almost every night. R5 is the
newest lounge at the casino, and it is chic and contemporary, with a great view of the falls. Not only that, they have one of the most extensive and exotic cocktail menus in the area. Dragonfly is a world-class dance club located in the Fallsview Casino complex that is packed with partiers every weekend, and is the place to go if you want to dance. The Hard Rock Café is a great place to listen to some good tunes, as well as eat some delicious food. Rumours Night Club is another popular dance club in the area and is located right on the top of Clifton Hill. Centre Street (a continuation of Clifton Hill) is the cities bar district, and there you will find The Spicy Olive, a great place to see live bands and Jack’s Cantina, a new two level bar that has an amazing roof top patio for those warmer days. Whether you want to spice up your event with some tasty cocktails or add some class to an after hours event, Niagara Falls has a place to suit every need!
Château des Charmes is unlike any other setting in Canada. Surrounded by romantic rose gardens and our award-winning St. David’s Bench Vineyard,Château des Charmes is an amazing setting for gatherings of all kinds. Our experienced multi-lingual Hospitality team will graciously host your guests for a truly memorable evening. It will be our pleasure to welcome your group to a relaxed and fun environment, where over a glass of fine wine you can connect with colleagues, share experiences, and escape to the tranquility of Niagara Wine Country. If you would like to add a little excitement we can arrange fireworks, live entertainment and even arrival via helicopter. You imagine it; we will do our utmost to deliver it! Conveniently located minutes from the QEW between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls.
Remember Remember
Remember Château des Charmes is unlike any other setting in Canada. Château des Charmes is unlike any other setting in Canada.
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Conveniently located minutes from the QEW between Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls.
CHATEAUDESCHARMES.COM CHATEAUDESCHARMES.COM 10251025 YORK ROAD, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ON, CANADA YORK ROAD, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ON, CANADA
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Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate
NATURALLY CAPTIVATING Exploring Niagara’s Wineries
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isit Niagara and you will find there is a wine to complement every occasion, every event and every food. Niagara is home to over 90 world-class wineries, and many of them offer the perfect place to go for an afternoon away from meetings or even as a unique backdrop to some of your planned events.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to the modern Ontario wine industry, and has been named Canada’s #1 Food and Wine Destination by Trip Advisor. Each winery is unique and each bottle of wine offers a different taste profile. There are large estate wineries, medium sized operations and small boutique wineries, which give visitors the perfect opportunity to mix it up and explore all the various offerings of Niagara Wine Country. It is also at these wineries that you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the Niagara Region; you won’t be disappointed with the dishes some of these Niagara chefs dream up. What follows is just a small sample of the wineries available to visit in Niagara. RAVINE VINEYARD Ravine Vineyards might just be the coolest winery in Niagara; they are innovative with their ideas, run a 34-acre organic winery and have a restaurant with to-die-for food. This winery is situated in St. David’s, and this small little village enjoys a unique soil and climate that is slightly different than the rest of the Niagara Region, giving their wines that little something extra. Before it was a winery, the property was known as Lowrey Farm, and it was opened in 1807. The land was passed down through generations and to this day Ravine remains a family enterprise. In addition to the winery, there is an event centre used for gatherings of anywhere from 10 to 600 people: the building is a 200 year old Loyalist home and actually ranks as one of Canada’s top fifty most architecturally significant ancestral homes.
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Also on site, is an interesting restaurant that bakes their own bread, grows their own organic vegetables and raises their own pigs. The menus all change on a seasonal basis and always incorporate the best that Niagara has to offer. One of the most recent additions to the property is a canning company, which does a great job of preserving all the delicious Niagara summer produce so that it can be enjoyed on a year round basis. CHATEAU DES CHARMES This beautiful winery is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Owned by the Bosc family, Chateau Des Charmes makes more than 30 vintages and they all come directly from their own vineyards. Guests will be charmed by the beautiful estate, friendly service and fine wine. REIF ESTATES Reif is located on the Niagara Parkway and boasts a 125-acre vineyard. They are a leader in sustainable winemaking practices, and have won numerous awards for their wines. The estate itself is beautiful and the grounds are lovely to wander around. PELLER ESTATES Peller is another one of Niagara’s big wineries. The building is gorgeous, and Peller Estates is highly committed to the perfect marriage of food and wine. The Peller Estates Winery Restaurant offers great views and amazing dishes put out by Chef Jason Parsons, which are paired perfectly with the vintages made by winemaker Katie Dickieson. TRIUS WINERY Trius Winery at Hillebrand is yet another of Niagara’s great wine destinations. Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Trius offers several different winery experiences, including tastings, seminars and delicious food and wine pairings.
Ravine Vineyards
Peller Estates Winery Inniskillin Estates Winery
Reif Estates Winery
JACKSON TRIGGS Jackson Triggs is one of Niagara’s most awarded wineries and has been named ‘Best Canadian Winery’ in numerous competitions. Jackson Triggs hosts several signature events throughout the year, including: Savour the Sights, which is a food and wine experience featuring five courses of food and wine, taking place once a month. The Niagara Concert Series happens from June to September in a beautiful outdoor amphitheater and big name acts are often featured. INNISKILLIN WINERY Inniskillin Winery is the original estate winery in the Niagara area, and has been producing award-winning wines for over 35 years. The property is beautiful and is open for touring year round.
of being one of the world’s most sustainable wineries. They also have a 1000-barrel cellar that is bright, airy, above ground, and unique to the area. These are just some of the great wineries available to take groups to: the options really are endless. You could choose to visit just one winery and book an in depth group tour and learn all about the winemaking process or take a tour of the winery region and visit several wineries in a day. Many wineries offer focused wine and food related seminars, which can be perfect for groups. If the group can’t make it out to a winery, let the wineries come to you! If you are looking for the perfect Reisling, Chardonnay or Icewine (or any other variety) for guests to sip at your event, there is most definitely a Niagara winery that can meet your needs.
STRATUS VINEYARDS Stratus Vineyards is a unique winery in the area; it is architecturally beautiful and also has the goal www.niagarafallstourism.com
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WINERY EVENT
CAPACITY
WINERY
CAP
STRATUS Mesquite Room
2 to 12
Vineyard Tasting Room
10 to 20
Stratus Tasting Room
21 to 50
Press Alley
50 to 100
Vineyard Terrace
up to 100
CHATEAU DES CHARMES The Paul Bosc Lounge
10 to 40
The St. David's Bench Room
10 to 64
The Estate Room
10 to 48
Vineyard Courtyard can be 400+ guests with exclusive use
20 to 200
RAVINE VINEYARD The Grand Parlour
up to 30
Ravine Vineyard Restaurant
up to 110
Packing Shed Porch
up to 30
Ravine Vineyard Marquee
up to 300
The Hearth Oven
up to 100
Pergola
30 to 100
The Cellar
55 to 100
The Boardroom
up to 10
Whole property
up to 600
PELLER ESTATES
for groups more than 160, special arrangements can be made
Peller Family Dining Room
up to 16
Private Dining Room
up to 28
Wine Garden
up to 50
Wine Library
up to 64
Barrel Cellar Experience Founders Hall
up to 160 up to 80
TRIUS WINERY The Studio
up to 24
The Winemakers Lookout
up to 28
The Vineyard Pavilion
up to 125
Trius Red Barrel Cellar
up to 32
JACKSON-TRIGGS NIAGARA ESTATE Jackson-Triggs Boardroom
16 people seated
Barrel Cellar
32 people seated
Tasting Gallery
48 people seated
Great Hall
80 people seated
INNISKILLIN WINES
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Founders Hall
80 people seated
Boardroom
12 peoples seated
Riedel Room
12 people seated
Underground Cellar
30 people seated
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NIAGARA’S CONVENTION CONNECTION
MEETING NEEDS. EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS. Just 30 minutes from Buffalo and 90 minutes from Toronto Over 47,000 square feet of combined meeting space The largest ballroom in the Niagara Region More than 1,300 guest rooms between the two hotels Conveniently attached by an enclosed, climate controlled walkway FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NIAGARA’S CONVENTION CONNECTION, CALL
Fallsview Casino Resort
Hilton Hotel and Suites Niagara Falls
Annette Bennitz, CMM 1.905.371.7740 fallsviewcasinoresort.com
Mary Ann Quait, CMM 1.905.353.7124 niagarafallshilton.com
Must be 19 years of age or older to enter the casino. www.knowyourlimit.ca
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NATURALLY TALENTED Professional Speakers in Niagara
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event, the location and any other expectations you may have. Once you know these things, it will be easier for the Niagara Falls Tourism team to narrow down speaker choices and make sure you have the perfect person for your event.
Some basic things you’ll need to figure out when booking a speaker include the purpose of the talk and what you want the speaker to communicate, the time of day the talk will take place, the length of time for the talk, your budget for the
We caught up with Marion Grobb Finkelstein, a professional speaker known for her ability to engage the audience through a hands-on, engaging presentation style, and had a chance to discuss the benefits of hiring local Niagara speakers. She notes, “Niagara has some amazing, world-class speakers right in its own backyard. You get to choose from a variety of speaker topics, styles and fees to find the right fit for your audience and budget.” She continues, “there’s lots of reasons to hire Niagara speakers, including substantial cost savings. When your
he Niagara area has some great professional speakers that will be able to add a unique aspect to your business events; all of these speakers are great at sharing their stories, insights and expertise and tying all of that into the topic at hand. They tailor each individual session to their clients needs to make sure the talks and sessions are not only informative, but also interactive and best of all, fun. Regardless of what your event is focusing on, Niagara Falls Tourism will be able to recommend and help organize a fitting speaker.
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meeting or conference is in Niagara and you hire a local speaker, you save on speaker travel fees, hotel expenses and delivery charges for their materials being sent to the venue. This adds up to great value for you, your organization and your attendees.” She also mentions that having grown up in Niagara, she is always very happy and proud to be able to present here. She shares, “I have a variety of workplace communication topics presented in a number of different ways: inspiring keynotes to open or close your gathering, or hands-on workshops or seminars for your break-out sessions. I’m delighted to work with clients to find a session topic and budget that works for them.”
Marion Grobb Finkelstein
Gerry Visca
HERE ARE SOME OF NIAGARA’S BEST LOCAL PROFESSIONAL SPEAKERS. Gerry Visca, Canada’s Creative Coach, is an international speaker, author and founding publisher of Defyeneurs. Gerry is a passionate and high-energy speaker who is great at connecting with and engaging audiences. Visca has published nine books covering topics such as creative thinking, brand building, innovation and personal development, and has been called, “the number one inspirational speaker in Canada”, by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. You can check out his website at www.gerryvisca.com
Anthony Linden
Marion also has a knack for linking training sessions or keynote speeches to Niagara’s varied attractions. She says, “for example, want a team building activity? How about an in-class session studying different communication styles, then see how those styles are put to the test in a stressful situation like an adventure ride. Or want to learn how to do presentations? How about a wine tour and then using the presentation skills you learned to share your experience with the group? The possibilities are endless. I work with all my Niagara Falls Tourism colleagues to create the type of session that works for you.” Gerry Visca, another of Niagara’s talented speakers, says that, “professional speakers have the ability to engage an audience to think different-
ly. The really good inspirators have the innate ability to take an audience to whole new levels, helping them become the best that they can be in the present moment.” The Niagara Speakers and Talent Group is also a great place to look for local speaking talent, and they offer a variety of speakers, with a wide range of expertise. Visit niagaraspeakersandtalent.com for a list of speakers. Niagara Falls Tourism is familiar with all local speakers, and works closely with them to find the perfect person to fit each individual event and meeting. Niagara has a huge pool of talented local speakers to choose from, so make sure to start your search for the best speakers, right here in Niagara, and they’ll be sure to make your event an inspiring one.
Marion Grobb Finkelstein, is a Communication Catalyst, and helps groups and teams to get the communication flowing. Marion is armed with over three decades of leadership and communication expertise. She is a published author, who has experience organizing national marketing campaigns, dealt with controversial media issues, as well as produced and hosted award winning cablevision shows. She is an award-winning Toastmaster and a member of Canadian Association of Professional Speakers and Global Speakers Foundation. You can visit her website at www.marionspeaks.com Anthony Linden is another of Niagara’s great speakers, and he is known as a team builder, keynote speaker and corporate magician. He has spent over 20 years giving thousands of custom scripted magic presentations at many business events around North America. He organizes a session called “The Magic of Collaboration”: a team building workshop that is a fun-filled, engaging way for teams to work together to perform a magic show. You can view his website at www.theteambuildingmagician.com
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NATURALLY NIAGARA DELEGATE GIFTS
LOCAL NIAGARA JAMS: CRABAPPLE & CONCORD GRAPE Greaves Jams & Marmalades Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON www.greavesjams.com 1-800-515-9939
Highlighting: Signature Niagara Products
The benefits of working with Niagara Falls Tourism for delegate gifts: • NFT secures reputable and preferred suppliers through an RFP system that ensures customer satisfaction. • NFT can negotiate and broker orders as a result of large volume business with preferred suppliers. • NFT can suggest custom items that perfectly suit the event and ensure a speedy service. • Using local suppliers will eliminate costly delivery charges.
EARTH AND SKY WINE SERIES-MADE FROM GRAPES RIGHT FROM ST. DAVID’S BENCH VINEYARD Chateau Des Charmes Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON www.fromtheboscfamily.com 905-262-4219
CRIVELLER ARTISAN TRUFFLE BOX Criveller Cakes Niagara Falls, ON www.crivellercakes.com 905-356-9441
ICE SYRUP AND A BOX OF TRUFFLES ICEWINE, PAUL BOSC ESTATE VINEYARD, VQA, ST. DAVID’S BENCH Chateau Des Charmes Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON www.fromtheboscfamily.com 905-262-4219
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Criveller Cakes Niagara Falls, ON www.crivellercakes.com 905-356-9441
SIGNATURE STARBUCKS NIAGARA MUG Available at all Niagara Falls Starbucks www.starbucks.ca
2012 VIDAL ICEWINE, 50ML
HAND BLOWN GLASS FRIENDSHIP BALL
Reif Estate Winery Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON www.reifwinery.com 905-468-7738
Rossi Glass Niagara Falls, ON www.rossiglass.com 905-301-8222
NIAGARA FALLS TOURISM CUSTOM T-SHIRT ICEWINE JELLY 3 PACK Kurtz Orchards Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON www.kurtzorchards.com 905-468-2937
Available directly from Niagara Falls Tourism www.niagarafallstourism.com 1-800-563-2557
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EXPERIENCE AWESOME ON THE NIAGARA RIVER Join the fun! • Daily departures from May to October • All ages 6 and up • Canadian and US departures
scan & save
WHIRLPOOLJET.COM OR CALL 1.888.438.4444 61 Melville Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario • 3850 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls, Ontario 115 South Water Street, Lewiston, New York www.niagarafallstourism.com
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NATURALLY RESOURCEFUL Niagara Falls Tourism
Niagara Falls Tourism is the official destination marketing organization for Niagara Falls. This highly professional team is comprised of individuals who have experience on both sides of the fence: as special event, corporate, government and association planners and as property representatives. They walk the talk! They’ve got the resources, and the partners, to ensure your success. Just ask them.
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Vittoria Wikston, CMP Director, Business Development
MEET THE NIAGARA FALLS TOURISM TEAM: Paula Racher Manager – Meetings, Conventions & Incentive Travel
Joanne St-Pierre Manager - Meetings, Conventions & Incentive Travel
Specializing in Conventions and Corporate Meetings, Paula Racher has led the Niagara Falls Tourism team to successfully capitalize on this particular segment. Paula has been part of the team for 3.5 years and continues to successfully act as the liaison between Niagara Falls Tourism and corporate, association and 3rd party clientele. Paula is a tourism industry professional since 1989 with experience in Kitchener, Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls.
Located in Montreal, Joanne St-Pierre has been supporting the Niagara Falls Tourism team for over 4 years. After 15 years as an association meeting manager, Joanne went to work for Starwood Hotels & Resorts as Global Account Director representing 900 hotels around the world. With her in-depth experience working within the Association market, Joanne develops and delivers marketing and sales initiatives that will promote Niagara Falls and the surrounding region as the pre-eminent meetings destination within Canada. She will continue to represent Niagara within the Association Market in Eastern Canada, United States of America and International Markets.
Paula appreciates the small details that it requires to execute successful and memorable events, and as a result of this personality trait, she’s the first to push herself towards continual self-improvement. Paula is an active member within her MPI chapter most recently serving on their Communications Committee, as well as her CSAE Trillium Chapter, serving on their Winter Summit Committee. Paula will continue to represent Niagara within the Conventions and Corporate Meetings Market in Canada, United States of America and International Markets.
Joanne has earned volumes of respect from her fellow peers and industry professionals. She’s an endless source of passionate energy and never shies away from volunteering within her MPI & CSAE chapters to enhance the industry’s education platform. She’s been nominated three times as Supplier of the Year with the MPI Ottawa Chapter and won Planner of the year in 2002.
A 30-year veteran of the Hospitality Industry, Vittoria opened the door to industry certification by becoming one of Niagara’s first Certified Meeting Professionals (CMP) receiving certification in 1998. Through sheer grit, persistence and determination Vittoria has been able to carve out a successful & rewarding career leading various outstanding organizations wearing various titles from Manager - to Director - to Vice President - to President and Proprietor. As a former Niagara College Hospitality Instructor, Vittoria also received the prestigious nomination for the 2008 Ontario Colleges Premier Award. Driven to conquer the extreme summit heights of Africa’s Mount Kilimanjaro, Colorado’s Pikes Peak, the Himalayan giant of Mount Everest Base Camp and most recently, through the ancient Peruvian Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The walls of these larger than life pictures in Vittoria’s office remind her daily of the extreme triumphs that have become symbolisms to her bigger life story. When you think you can – you CAN! Stay focused and don’t lose your footing; otherwise, you’ll fall. Soon to enter her third year at Niagara Falls Tourism, Vittoria is most proud of her team’s accomplishments. It’s a complete honour and privilege to work alongside such talented professionals who are not severed at the neck; instead, continue to lead with both mind and heart connected. The past two years have been full of both, rebuilding and forging forward for the team. It’s an honour to hear through the industry that NFT has become the emerging DMO to be reckoned with. The exciting thought is that the team is just getting started. The commitment to the extra degree of effort, passion and pride in our grand mission has placed the team on an extremely fast locomotive and there’s not too many stops planned in the upcoming year. For 2014, Vittoria will be committed to welcoming to Niagara and executing the best ever CSAE National Conference as the official Co-Chair of the event, as well as taking the quarterback position on the Rendezvous Canada 2015 Event. www.niagarafallstourism.com
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Here’s exactly how the Niagara Falls Tourism team is able to help you: ASSISTANCE IN PREPARING YOUR EVENT BID
ONLINE ATTENDEE HOUSING MODULE
PRE-EVENT PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS
Your NFT Team will not only assist you with all the paperwork that accompanies your bid, but they’ll also be there, to assist you with your official bid presentation. Bells and whistles included!
Free of charge! Niagara Falls Tourism clients will have exclusive access to the use of the internal attendee housing system. A dedicated event webpage will be created offering your delegates a secured username and password giving them direct online access to the available accommodations. As a special bonus, event planners will have personalized administration access for customized performance reports.
NFT understands how important it is to attract as many delegates as possible to your events and doing so on a timely basis. Niagara Falls Tourism can assist with their regularly available marketing tools:
TAX REBATE PROGRAM In 2007, the FCTIP program was created to provide GST/HST refunds to foreign meetings and convention organizers who bring group business to Canada. Expenses eligible for rebate include convention facilities, and related convention supplies that are food, beverages and items provided under contract for catering. Ask the NFT Team how they can assist you with this very beneficial program. SITE SELECTION SIMPLIFIED Let Niagara Falls Tourism show you around. Based on your requirements, they’ll ensure they match you up with the best options available, saving you both time and money. They’ll do all the co-ordination: you just show up. ACCOMMODATION AND MEETING CO-ORDINATION Acting as an extension of your planning team, the Niagara Falls Tourism Team will assist in securing your accommodations, meeting and banquet space and ensure seamless coordination with your selected venues.
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MATCH-MAKER IMMEDIATE LINKS TO INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS Many of the key partners that you’ll need to successfully expedite your Niagara Falls event have been identified within this document. Yet, Niagara Falls Tourism’s available list of resources goes way beyond just sending you a listings guide. They’ll actually make the connections for you and ensure there’s a perfect match for your event. PROGRAM AGENDA DEVELOPMENT Let Niagara Falls Tourism inject some of their regional flair into your program agenda. What to see, what to do, where to eat…the list is endless. • Professional World Class Keynote Speakers • Workshop Leadership Programs • Experiential-Corporate Team-Building Programs • Companion Programs • Children’s Programs
• Niagara Falls & Regional Images • Lure Brochure • Promotional Videos • Post-cards and Posters DELEGATE PROMOTIONAL GIFTS You can just appreciate the bulk buying that Niagara Falls Tourism does on their client’s behalf for promotional give-away gifts and souvenirs. As a special thank you for selecting Niagara Falls as your destination of choice, you can be certain that the preferred suppliers of Niagara Falls Tourism will gladly extend savings onto your event. Niagara Falls Tourism will also assist in sourcing out items that are signature to the region. DELEGATE/ATTENDEE WELCOME BAGS Welcome your attendees with Niagara Falls Delegate Welcome Bags chuck-full of valuable Niagara Super-Saver coupons, a city map, and shopping and dining guides. Please be certain to provide ample assembly time (three weeks would be greatly appreciated)
“On behalf of the Canadian Urological Association (CUA), I would like to thank you and your team for your contribution to making the 68th Annual Meeting of the CUA a tremendous success.
NATURAL REACTIONS Testimonials for Niagara Falls Tourism
“In exploring options for our 2014 conference social program and companion’s tours, working with Niagara Falls Tourism and Meetings and Conventions Manager, Paula Racher, was a delight. Having an on site partner with intimate knowledge of the key attractions and venues in the area, and more importantly, who really listened to our needs, and proposed a range of outstanding options was critical in the development of a truly exceptional conference program that our delegates will be talking about for years to come. As a busy executive, it is important that site visits are as efficient and effective as possible. Niagara Falls Tourism made the right connections and facilitated countless meetings to ensure that our site visits went smoothly and we got a clear picture of the array of outstanding possibilities available in Niagara Falls to enhance our conference experience. I am grateful for NFT’s professionalism, knowledge and patience. We will be back!”
Craig Wellington, AMCTO-Director, Corporate Services
“On behalf of the Board of Directors and Organizing Committee, I would like to thank Niagara Falls Tourism for your generous support of the 2013 Canadian Greenhouse Conference. The upbeat vibe surrounding the conference and the industry continued and the CGC trade show and speakers program saw increased attendance again in 2013. Feedback from attendees and exhibitors has been positive. The board and committee works diligently on behalf of growers and industry to put together an event that promotes and benefits the greenhouse industry.
From June 22 to 25, 2013, the CUA Annual Meeting hosted some 1,000 participants at the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel. The venue was perfect for a meeting of our size; the staff was very responsive, the service was excellent and the meeting costs were extremely low. All of these factors contributed to a very successful meeting especially from a financial point of view. Our Fun Night was very well received by our guests at Table Rock Elements-on-the-Falls. The 600 plus participants enjoyed good food and a magnificent view of the falls, which were illuminated in our company’s colours at 10:00pm and happened to be followed by fireworks as the event was on a Sunday evening. The President’s closing banquet was held at the Sheraton on the Falls and the staff was incredible given the tight two-hour turnaround time to create a spectacular setting to host our 400 plus guests for a themed event. While our urologists were hesitant at first to host an event in Niagara Falls given its associated with “honeymooners” and “the Vegas of Canada”, they were all pleasantly surprised at how amazing the event was and have sent in numerous letters congratulating us on the success of our meeting.” Tiffany Pizioli, MBA Executive Director, Canadian Urological Association
“I wanted to send you a quick note to let you know how wonderful our trip to the Niagara Region was. I have been a big fan for many years, but this trip I had the chance to bring colleagues that had never been. The hospitality, service, food and wine quality and variety, and most importantly the natural beauty of the area are just spectacular. Everyone is still talking about it! You were instrumental in this success and for that I thank you greatly. I will continue to be an adjunct sales person for the Niagara Region. It is truly one of Canada’s wonders!” Deborah Ryan-Pelletier
Your support allowed us to present a professional event while keeping admission costs low for attendees.”
“The Niagara Falls Team of Hoteliers and the Convention Center led by the magnificent Niagara Falls Tourism Bureau – in particular Joanne St-Pierre – are a dream team. The professionalism and partnership showed by everyone from beginning to end in placing a very high end client’s event in Niagara Falls (less than a year out) is a model for other cities to try & model.”
Glenna Cairnie Canadian Greenhouse Conference Sponsor Coordinator
Inge Hafkemeyer, C.M.M Account Executive, ADI Meetings and Events
www.niagarafallstourism.com
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NIAGARA’S EXH
FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT “We have the largest hotel ballroom in Canada. Not only does it make the perfect location for a general session, or a gala dinner, it also makes for a fantastic upscale exhibit venue!” Annette Bennitz, Director, Resort Sales at Fallsview Casino Resort. • 28,000 square foot ballroom which divides into 5 function rooms. • The Grand Hall can fit up to 175 8’ by 10’ booths or 140 10’ by 10’ booths. • Halls A can fit up to 38 8’ by 10’ booths or 29 10’ by 10’ booths. • Halls B, C and D can fit up to 35 8’ by 10’ booths or 28 10’ by 10’ booths. • Hall E can fit up to 32 8’by 10’ booths or 27 10’ by 10’ booths. • Ceiling height is 17.33ft. • State of the art audio/visual setup.
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SCOTIABANK CONVENTION CENTRE NIAGARA “The 81,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall at the Scotiabank Convention Centre is Niagara’s largest free-span exhibit & tradeshow space; and features retractable walls to create three separate halls, that easily accommodate events and tradeshows of all shapes and sizes.” Jeremy Tyrrell, Director of Sales, Scotiabank Convention Centre • Total exhibit hall space of 81, 140 square feet. • Can be broken into three halls: • A, measuring 26, 975 square feet. • B, measuring 27, 050 square feet. • C, measuring 26, 975 square feet. • Entire exhibit hall can fit 415, 10’ by 10’ booths or 530 8’ by 10’ booths. • Can host banquets of up to 4, 760 delegates. • State of the art audio/visual setup.
HIBITION HALLS
SHERATON ON THE FALLS
WHITE OAKS CONFERENCE RESORT
“Considerable resources have been invested in the physical revitalization of our conference and meeting facilities. It’s this along with the convenience of having everything under one roof that creates a one stop shop for our clientele and has led to an 83% average repeat rate of conference business.”
“Everyone is loving the space and it’s been wonderful to finally show off this amazing Exhibition Hall. The flow of traffic from the delegate meeting space to the registration area to the exhibition hall is perfect.”
David Nowaczyk, Director of Sales, Sheraton on the Falls Hotel & Conference Centre • 15,000 square foot Great Room. • Great Room can hold 102, 8’ by 10’ booths or 84, 10’ by 10’ booths. • Can be broken into three halls: • A, measuring 4730 square feet. • B, measuring 4730 square feet. • C, measuring 4730 square feet with a 23x33 built in stage. • Conference centre has a WiFi infrastructure that allows over 4000 simultaneous connections.
Richard Reid, Executive Director of Sales at White Oaks. • 24, 780 square feet of carpeted space. • Fits 50, 10’ by 10’ booths with breakfast/lunch seating for 350 people or 100 10’ by 10’ booths. • State of the art audio/visual setup. • Big hall can be configured to accommodate smaller events. • Exhibit hall is easily accessible from the heart of the conference centre. • White Oaks assigns a dedicated tradeshow shipper/receiver to assist with pre/post show deliveries.
• Capable of hosting 2300 conference delegates. www.niagarafallstourism.com
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We Make It Happen
When you need a local destination partner to help get an event of any size designed, planned and executed, you need it done right. Come to Toronto & Niagara’s award-winning Destination Management Company and experience the difference: • A 98% average planner satisfaction rating • The only accredited Destination Management Company in Niagara • Recently named one of the Top 25 DMCs in the world by Special Events Magazine • Preferred DMC partner for Niagara Falls Tourism & the Scotiabank Convention Centre Niagara
Elizabeth Stewart 905-356-7301, ext. 401 @jpdlLiz www.jpdl.com 52 www.niagarafallstourism.com
Niagara Helicopters Flightseeing Tours
For the thrill of a lifetime! Explore Niagara from above
Niagara Helicopters 3731 Victoria Avenue Niagara Falls, ON
905-357-5672
www.niagarahelicopters.com www.niagarafallstourism.com
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IT’S EASIER TOMEET IN NIAGARA
Since it was first announced, Niagara’s largest conventions and meetings facility, the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls (SCCN) was seen as an industry changer. There are other venues in the region that offer business and meeting services, however at 280,000 square feet there had never been anything that comes close to the Centre’s expanse and flexibility. Now, three years since its doors opened, the SCCN wants to remind the Meetings Conventions & Incentive Travel (MC& IT) industry that Niagara just keeps getting better.
“… the SCCN is proud that the incentives that we offer are about customizing and maintaining flexibility” 54
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In the new ‘It’s easier to meet in Niagara!’ campaign, the SCCN will be focusing on what makes them a winning proposition. “In the last year we’ve received great feedback from our friends and guests,” says Jeremy Tyrrell, Director of Sales at the SCCN. “We value our clients and their success is ‘our’ success. Glowing client testimonials, great survey scores, and an amazing return rate have shown us that we are doing things right. But we’ve learned that we have to do something different from our competitors, and it is remarkably simple: focus on the basics.” “We recognize that in the last few years, there
has been a trend to throw around incentives, sometimes without regard for what the client’s needs may be,” says Jeremy on current industry standards. “But we have a great product here in Niagara and I think it can stand on its own without the need to offer one-size-fits-all sugar coated deals,” and adds “We treat every one of our clients as individuals with individual and differing requirements, and thus respect that each event brings a unique set success measurement. In addition to our team providing a ‘total 360’ event support, the SCCN is proud that the incentives that we offer are about customizing and maintaining flexibility; about working with our clients to achieve the goals of their meeting; and about providing maximum value in a distinctive way. For example, our Convention Development Fund (CDF) is a great resource that we encourage our clients to tap into. It’s another way we are making meeting in Niagara easier than ever!”
To learn more about the exciting event opportunities and special offers at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, please contact: Jeremy Tyrrell, Director of Sales at 1(888) 997-6222 or sales@fallsconventions.com
Corporate Trips Winery Events Biking Tours Wine Dinners Teambuilding Transportation Entertainment Decor & Theming Onsite Staff
905 984 5725 • natalie@celebrateniagara.ca www.celebrateniagara.ca www.niagarafallstourism.com
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HIGHLIGHTS:THE PCMA
CANADIAN INNOVATION CONFERENCE
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ovember of 2013 saw 250 people from all across Canada descend upon Niagara Falls for the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Canadian Innovation Conference, which took place November 10 to November 12. Attendees included students, speakers, meeting planners and suppliers to the meeting industry. Chuck Schouwerwou the President & Principal Meeting Planner for ConferSense Planners Inc., as well as the Director of Education and Events (Canada East Chapter) for the PCMA, notes that the conference was well balanced for students and non-industry speakers, and that “the conference achieved a 43:57 planner supplier ratio, a rare achievement in the meetings industry.” The Canadian Innovation Conference is a first rate conference which focuses on education and networking for individuals in the meetings and events industry. Chuck says, “it was created as a conference for Canadians by Canadians, especially for those whose employers would not allow them to attend MPI and PCMA interna-
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tional conferences that are usually held outside of Canada.” The primary venues used for this conference were the state-of-the-art Scotiabank Convention Centre and the beautiful Marriott Gateway on the Falls. Niagara Falls was chosen as the conference location after presenting a proposal that went above and beyond the necessary criteria the conference planners were looking for. Chuck elaborates, “the Niagara Falls proposal offered the best rates for both the meeting space at the convention centre and at the host hotels. This was backed up by a solid incentive package by Niagara Falls Tourism.” The conference itself kicked off with a site inspection of the two main venues, which was followed by a learning lounge, featuring several demo pods. The opening ceremonies saw a keynote address by Randy Cass, who is the host of the BNN’s daily national show, “Market Sense”. This was then followed by a welcome reception and networking event. The rest of the weekend included several more learning lounges, a wide
variety of concurrent sessions to choose from, networking lunches, a fun run for the PCMA Foundation, a silent auction, an amazing variety of food, keynote addresses by Ron Tite and Amanda Lindhout and a stellar closing party to top off the weekend. When speaking of the venues the conference occupied, Chuck recounts, “the SCCN is a fabulous facility. It has tons of natural light, which brightens the whole place. Their staff, especially their front line staff, exudes friendliness and went beyond the call of duty to ensure everyone’s happiness and well-being. The kitchen’s creativity was mind blowing and embraced our budget and themes to make for awesome food and beverage functions. The SCCN’s inventory of décor is also very extensive, helping to save money when doing a themed event.” He continues, “the Marriott Gateway similarly went beyond the call of duty to welcome our delegates. The opening reception they created for us was so phenomenal it continued on almost three hours longer than planned.”
T
he entire conference was just as big a success as that opening reception, and there were several other highlights throughout the duration of the event. Chuck credits the “cutting edge education, awesome networking events, killer audio visual and lighting technology, all merged in a venue that could bring it all together in one place”, with helping make the conference so successful. He also notes that the conference was financially successful as well, due to the venues being able to work with and make the most of the money that was available. Probably one of the most memorable parts of the conference for all those in attendance was the closing party, which featured Alan Frew of Glass Tiger. Not only that, but the entire closing party was Back to the Future themed. Chuck explains, “the SCCN came up with awesome food stations that had décor and food offerings representing different scenes from the movie and Peller Estates paired all the food stations with different wines. Jeff Dixon and Jeremy Tyrrell from the SCCN arrived on stage to kick off the evening in an exact replica DeLorean from the movie, which was provided by ConferSense Planners Inc.” In short, it was a blast from the past evening that was not to be missed. In terms of his experience working with Niagara Falls, Chuck has nothing but good things to say. He shares, “it was great working with Niagara Falls. From the first contact with Niagara Falls Tourism, to the contract negotiations, you felt that Niagara Falls really wanted your meeting
and would do what it took to get it there. During the execution, everyone worked to make sure everything happened smoothly, professionally and with a big smile. Those executing the meeting had a can do attitude that was flexible enough to handle last minute changes and adjustments to aspects of the meeting. You could tell everyone really cared about the success of the meeting no matter what level they worked at.” Chuck says he would be happy to plan more events taking place in Niagara Falls, given he had such a positive experience. He notes that he is currently working on a large-scale client conference, which he hopes he will be able to bring to the city in 2016. Feedback from conference goers was also overwhelmingly positive, which truly is the mark of a great conference. Chuck reports that, “many people said it was the best industry conference they had ever been to in Canada and that they could hardly wait for the next one. Existing and potential sponsors were clambering to be on board for 2014. Everyone praised the venues and the city, many stating they had no idea such quality existed in Niagara Falls and that their image of the seedy/ tacky Niagara Falls of the past had been shattered. Many said they would now consider Niagara Falls a destination for their meetings.”
www.niagarafallstourism.com
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NIAGARA BY THE NUMBERS Venue Chart Hotel
Number of Guest Rooms
Number of Largest Meeting Meeting Rooms Room Sqare Feet
Americana Conference & Spa
204
12
10,660
19,000
Best Western plus Cairn Croft
165
5
2,000
5,000
Crowne Plaza
234
11
7,600
22,000
DoubleTree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton
224
9
4,429
10,000
Embassy Suites Fallsview by Hilton
512
8
5,324
8,450
Four Points by Sheraton
391
3
3,360
4,910
Fallsview Casino Resort
374
9
28,025
35,000
HIlton Garden Inn - NOTL
118
2
3,071
3,750
1,000
10
5,376
12,000
1,374
19
28,025
47,000
Hilton Hotel & Suites Fallsview Hilton Hotel & Fallsview Casino Partnership (connected properties)
Marriott Gateway on the Falls
405
23
8,470
40,000
Queen’s Landing - NOTL
142
19
4,756
15,000
Radisson Hotel Fallsview
232
2
560
860
Sheraton on the Falls
669
17
14,200
200,000
White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa - NOTL
220
22
24,780
92,253
Scotiabank Convention Centre
n/a
23
82,000
288,000
4,890
175
204,611
756,223
TOTAL
The listed properties are those who’s facilities and services are designed and dedicated to the Meetings Industry; however, including all available full service hotels/motels, Niagara Falls, in total has a guest room inventory totalling 16,000 room nights.
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Total Meeting Space Square Footage
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Queen Street in Niagara-On-The-Lake
NATURALLY TEMPTING Shopping in Niagara
N
iagara has several places for visitors that love to spend some free time shopping. The best part is each area offers something completely different; whether someone is looking for a bargain or some sort of designer duds, they’ll be able to find it all in Niagara. HERITAGE DISTRICT OF NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE This is the place to go for some unique finds. The main street is lined with several independent shops offering one of a kind items. Just some of the offerings include Beau Chapeau Hat Shop, which features romantic, casual and classic hats for men, woman and kids. Irish Design show-
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cases clothing and gifts right from Ireland. At Just Christmas, it’s the holiday season all year round. That’s just some of the shops visitors will come across while strolling through Niagara-on-the-Lake’s historical streets.
stores in the area. Some stores include: lululemon, Guess, Laura, Mexx, Michael Kors, Nine West and numerous others. This is the best place to go for some amazing deals.
THE GALLERIA SHOPS AT FALLSVIEW CASINO
Opening in Spring of 2014, this is Niagara’s newest collection of shops. Close to 100 stores will fill the mall, including Banana Republic, Bench Outlet, Forever 21, Gap Outlet and Osh Kosh. The Outlet Collection is a beautifully designed, open-air mall.
The shops at the Fallsview Casino offer an eclectic mix of shopping choices. You will find several boutiques with the latest styles, accessories, gifts and collectibles. Some of the stores include: Bentley, Sirens, Tango Boutique and La Vie En Rose. CANADA ONE FACTORY OUTLETS This is one of the biggest collections of outlet
THE OUTLET COLLECTION AT NIAGARA
With all these options available to them, guests really will be able to shop until they drop!
Come experience our hospitality, then discover our award winning wines. Visit our award-winning wineries and experience the most memorable hospitality in the Niagara Region.
inniskillin.com
Known around the world for its award winning Icewines, Inniskillin has a proud history as one of Canada’s first estate wineries.
jacksontriggswinery.com
leclosjordanne.com
Welcome to one of Canada’s most architecturally stunning wineries, where our passion for wine and culinary excellence is yours to discover.
Le Clos Jordanne wines have received critical acclaim since their launch.
To learn more about entertaining at the estates wineries please contact
sales@greatestatesniagara.com
www.greatestatesniagara.com
GREAT THEATRE IN THE HEART OF NIAGARA WINE COUNTRY
2014 SEASON: APRIL 4 - OCTOBER 26 FESTIVAL THEATRE
COURT HOUSE THEATRE
ROYAL GEORGE THEATRE
Cabaret
The Charity that Began at Home
Arms and The Man
by St John Hankin
When We Are Married
The Sea
by J.B. Priestley
by Edward Bond
Juno and the Paycock
A Lovely Sunday for Creve Coeur
by Sean O’Casey
Book by Joe Masteroff Music by John Kander Lyrics by Fred Ebb
The Philadelphia Story by Philip Barry
The Philanderer by Bernard Shaw
by Tennessee Williams
by Bernard Shaw
STUDIO THEATRE
The Mountaintop by Katori Hall
Plus, The Shaw offers: • Corporate/conference discount • On-site dining at the Festival Theatre • Intimate pre- and post-show chats with actors and designers • Backstage tours and customized workshops • Ask about our theatre rentals
JACKIE MAXWELL ARTISTIC DIRECTOR NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ONTARIO
SHAWFEST.COM | 1.800.511.SHAW Photo illustration for Cabaret: Emily Cooper | Design: keygordon.com
Client: SHAW FESTIVAL Publication: Niagara Falls Meetings Destination Magazine Insertion Date: 2014 Issue Size: 8” x 5.45” www.niagarafallstourism.com Contact: BRUCE@KEYGORDON.COM | KEY GORDON COMMUNICATIONS
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A CITY GUIDE TO SAVE YOU MONEY ALONG THE WAY WHERE CAN WE TAKE YOU?
DOWNLOAD THE FREE APP
10:20
Restaurants Bars & Nightlife Calendar of Events Coupons Maps Attractions And more...
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD ON ALL PLATFORMS The GPS-based guide that quickly allows you to search and find establishments in the city.
www.saveabuck.com 62
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NATURALLY ACCESSIBLE Getting to, from and around Niagara
N
iagara is within close proximity to four international airports. The Lester B. Pearson International (YYZ) airport is located a 90-minute transfer from Niagara, as is the Billy Bishop Toronto City Centre Airport (YTZ). The John. C Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) is only a 45-minute ride away from Niagara and the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is only 30 minutes away. There are a couple of options when it comes to getting from the airport to the city of Niagara Falls: TRAINS Niagara Falls is home to a Via Rail station, and it is located just outside the main tourist area, making it very convenient for groups needing to get into the city. Connections are available from cities in Ontario, Quebec and New York State. GO Transit is a great way to get around the Toronto-Hamilton and Niagara area, as stops are made in all major cities. It provides a safe, relaxing and convenient way to get to Niagara. Travel on GO Transit is either by bus or train, depending on the route.
SHUTTLES AND BUSES
AUTOMOBILES
Niagara Airbus provides shuttle, private car and charter services to and from Lester B. Pearson and Buffalo Niagara Airports, as well as daily private service to Hamilton International and Billy Bishop. Reservations must be made at least 72 hours in advance. Niagara Airbus is the perfect service to use to really take the hassle and stress of having to drive yourself. Niagara Airbus also offers tours of the Niagara Falls area and the Niagara wineries, providing an easy and fun way for your guests to see the Region.
Niagara is also easily reachable by car. Three international bridges connect Niagara to the United States, and major highways connect Canadian visitors to all major transportation hubs.
Coventry Connections is another company that provides a variety of different services. Airport taxis are available to and from all the previously mentioned airports (this company also has chartered buses available for larger groups). In addition, Coventry Connections has a taxi fleet in the Niagara Region that operates under the name Central Taxi. They provide fast, convenient and quiet cabs that will get your guests where they need to be, safely. Pacific Western Transportation also offers motor coaches that allow guests to customize their excursions. The buses are deluxe, comfortable and are great for groups needing to get from place to place.
IN NIAGARA Once your guests are in Niagara Falls, there is a bus service in place that will take them wherever it is in Niagara Falls they want to go. The WEGO bus system connects hotels and attractions around Niagara Falls. There are four different bus lines, and they are distinguishable by colours: blue, red, purple and green. The red line covers the Lundy’s Lane area, the blue line, the Fallsview/Clifton Hill area, the purple line, downtown Niagara Falls, and the green line, the Niagara Parks attractions. Day passes for the buses are available at most hotels in the area and cost $7 each for adults. While some attractions are within walking distance of one another, many of them are not, so the WEGO system provides the best and most convenient way for your guests to fit in as many attractions as they can. With all these options available for visitors, Niagara is truly a very accessible place.
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Niagara Falls Region
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LAK
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WINERIES
NIAGARAON-THE-LAKE 4
1 Château des Charmes Winery
EAST WEST LINE
1025 York Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake (800) 263-2541 TOWNLINE
2 Inniskillin Estates Winery 1499 Line 3, Niagara-on-the-Lake (888) 466-4754
CH
UR
3 Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate
CH
7 2
5 20
2145 Niagara Stone Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake (866) 589-4637
LINE 3
PORT DALHOUSIE
4 Peller Estates Winery
290 John Street East, Niagara-on-the-Lake, LL (888) 673-5537 WE 5 Trius Winery at Hillebrand
LIN
23
1249 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake (800) 582-8412 6 Ravine Vineyard 1366 York Road, Saint Davids (905) 262-8463
M FOUR
ON TAR
IO
23
NE
2059 Niagara Stone Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake (905) 468-1806
EK
A AG NI
WAY
8 Stratus Winery
QU
ST. CATHARINES HOTELS / VENUES
EE
9 Hilton Garden Inn 500 York Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake (866) 777-9877
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ALE ND
10 Queen’s Landing Resort
LIZ 9 21 ABET HW 11 AY
1 GEN
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AG A
THOROLD STONE
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LUNDY’S LANE
8585 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls (800) 467-2071 17 Royal Niagara Golf Club 1 Niagara-on-the-Green Blvd, Niagara-On-The-Lake (866) 769-2518 18 Shaw Festival Theatre
10 Queens Parade, Niagara-on-the-Lake (800) 657-1106
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MORRISON
LUNDY’S LANE
NIAGARA FALLS MCLEOD
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20 Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours 61 Melville Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake (905) 468-4800 7 Henegan St, Virgil (winter office location) (905) 468-5387
TRANSPORTATION
21 The Outlet Collection
24 Niagara Falls VIA Station & GO Train Station 4267 Bridge Street, Niagara Falls
19 Whirlpool Golf Course
300 Taylor Rd, Niagara-On-The-Lake
3351 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls (905) 356-7221
22 Queenston Quarry
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5523 Stamford Townline Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake 905-941-5500
23 Niagara District Airport 468 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake 905-684-7447
25 Niagara Fall GO Bus Station 4555 Erie Avenue, Niagara Falls 416 869-3200
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LUNDY’S LANE 13
PK W Y
RIVE
16
RA
VICTORIA
16 Oh Canada Eh? Dinner Show!
S
VI DA
THOROLD TOWNLINE
13 Canada ONE Factory Outlets 7500 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls (866) 284-5781
STANLEY
THOROLD
15 DORCHESTER
QUEEN ELIZABETH WAY
M
3731 Victoria Avenue, Niagara Falls (800) 281-8034
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NI
HA 12 LButterfly Conservatory E
15 Niagara Helicopters
OCK
12 19
ENTERTAINMENT/ATTRACTIONS
14 Legends on the Niagara Golf Course 9233 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls (866) 465-3642
L BR
TAYLOR
11 White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa featuring LIV Restaurant 253 Taylor Road, Niagara on the Lake (800) 263-5766
2405 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls (877) 642-7275
6
YORK
17
GLE
featuring Tiara Restaurant 155 Byron St, Niagara-on-the-Lake (888) 669-5566
E ILE CR
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7 Reif Estates Winery QUE EN E 15608 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake LIZA BETH (905) 468-7738
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Niagara District & Fallsview Core HOTELS/VENUES 1 Americana Conference Resort & Spa featuring Jack Tanner’s Grillhouse 8444 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls (866) 707-0040 2 Best Western PLUS Cairn Croft
featuring Doc Magilligan's Restaurant & Irish Pub 6400 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls (800) 263-2551 3 Casino Niagara
5705 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls (888) 946-3255
8 Four Points by Sheraton Niagara Falls featuring Ruth’s Chris Steak House 6455 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls (866) 225-0975 9 Hilton Hotels and Suites Niagara Falls Fallsview
featuring Brasa Restaurant 6361 Fallsview Boulevard , Niagara Falls (888) 370-0325 10 Marriott Gateway on the Falls featuring Milestones 6755 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls (800) 618-9059
4 Crowne Plaza
11 Radisson Hotel & Suites Fallsview featuring Tony Roma’s Restaurant 6733 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls (800) 395-7046
5 DoubleTree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton
12 Scotiabank Convention Centre 6815 Stanley Avenue, Niagara Falls (888) 997-6222
featuring the Rainbow Room by Massimo Capra 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls (800) 263-7135 featuring Buchanans Chophouse 6039 Fallsview Blvd, Niagara Falls (800) 730-8609 6 Embassy Suites by Hilton
featuring The Keg Restaurant 6700 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls (800) 420-6980 7 Fallsview Casino Resort
featuring R5 Lounge 6380 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls (888) 325-5788
13 Sheraton on the Falls
featuring Windows by Jamie Kennedy 5875 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls (888)-229-9961
ENTERTAINMENT / ATTRACTIONS 14 Bird Kingdom
5651 River Road, Niagara Falls (866) 994-0090 15 Hornblower Niagara Cruises
5920 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls 1-905-NIAGARA
16 Greg Frewin Dinner Theatre 5781 Ellen Avenue, Niagara Falls (866) 870-3002 17 Journey Behind the Falls 6650 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls (905) 354-1551 18 Niagara Falls History Museum 5810 Ferry Street, Niagara Falls (905)-358-5082 19 Niagara Skywheel 4950 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls (905) 358-4793 20 Skylon Tower 5200 Robinson Street, Niagara Falls (800) 814-9577
BARS/CLUBS/NIGHTLIFE 21 Dragonfly Nightclub 6380 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls (905) 356-4691 22 Hard Rock Night Club 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls (905) 356-7625 23 Margaritaville 6300 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls (905) 354-1245 24 Rumours Night Club 4960 Clifton Hill, Niagara Falls (905) 358-6152
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WE FOCUS ON YOUR SUCCESS
Trip Advisor, April 2013 “I recently organized a meeting at Queen's Landing Hotel. We regularly organize meetings across Canada so we've worked with staff in a lot of hotels, and this was definitely one of the best! Our arrangements were made with Peggy Cernick, who was a delight to work with... she was very organized and always anticipated our needs in advance, which is the true definition of customer service. The hotel staff were wonderful too - as soon as I needed something, it was provided. And everyone was very friendly! We will definitely be back!�
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naturally inspired NI AGARA FALL S , C ANADA
A Traveller’s Choice Destination
A Top Destination in Canada
A Best Outdoor & Adventure Destination Designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve
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