< Previouscenter on the West Coast and one of the world’s most famous theme parks, Disneyland Resort. Patty Kindness is a regional direc- tor with PRA, a global business- event-management firm. About the county, she says, “Orange County has so much to offer groups — great weather in a beautiful coastal destina- tion with so many options for enter- taining. Whether it’s getting out into the Pacific for a sailing regatta or a whale-watching experience, or tak- ing in the beautiful “plein air” art of Laguna Beach or an electric bike ride through the local neighborhoods of Corona del Mar, there is truly some- thing for everyone.” Orange County has options for those coveted “wow” opening and clos- ing receptions, but one stands out for Kindness: “Our hands-down favorite venue in OC is Mission San Juan Cap- istrano. It’s where tourism was born in Southern California. It tells the unique story of California history and it’s just beautiful. You can enjoy several differ- ent experiences at the Mission, from a beautiful closing-night gala event under the stars in the historic central courtyard, to a private tour of the Mis- sion’s art collection or a horticultural tour in the gardens. There are just so many ways to experience OC’s his- tory and culture.” While Mission San Juan Capist- rano is as old as the United States itself, founded just four months after the founding of the country, Orange County embraces what’s new, too. “We’re thrilled,” Kindness says, “to have two new properties in Anaheim, the JW Marriott, Anaheim Resort and The Westin Anaheim Resort. Both are incredible additions to the very busy and growing market in Anaheim and the Anaheim Convention Center.” In this age of COVID, Southern Cal- ifornia is a great choice for in-person groups that prefer to meet primarily outdoors. “Orange County offers great weather year-round and plenty of beautiful outdoor spaces for entertain- ing — many with an ocean view.” Kind- ness says. “Additionally, Coastal OC is home to several of the most luxurious and exceptional resort properties in the world. The lawns and views at these properties are truly one of a kind.” She also says the county is well prepared for keeping groups healthy and safe. “We’re ready for you. We’ve invested so much into making sure our programs are adhering to not just local health and safety protocols, but also our own corporate protocols with the guest experience in mind.” Kind- ness adds that planners should have conversations with their attendees and with local DMCs they work with in order to ensure the best experience. “Having good conversations in advance with your partners to discuss what your corporate expectations are and how your guests will feel about trav- eling to Orange County is paramount for us to custom curate an experience that will make everyone feel safe, wel- come and cared for.” Orange County is a coveted meet- ing destination, and that means plan- ning in advance is paramount for the best outcome. “Please start the conver- sation as early as possible,” Kindness advises planners considering Orange County. “This is a popular destina- tion and available dates go fast. We’re currently seeing really short-term bookings, and that affects availability of resources, such as activities, tours, transportation equipment, staff, etc. We want to provide you with the best possible options, but by 30 days out, the options can be limited.” Like other industry experts, Kind- ness sees much to be positive about. “We’re feeling optimistic about the next 10 to 12 months and about groups returning to travel and programs all over Southern California. I think we’ll always be considering some amount of risk in bringing people together for a corporate program, so this will be our ‘new normal.’ But it’s also an opportu- nity to continue the conversation about how important face-to-face meetings are and how we can continue to make them safe for everyone.” One of Orange County’s premier meeting cities is Anaheim, which is where Informa Markets Engineer- ing West (IME West) held its annual trade event late last summer for advanced manufacturing profession- als, with virtual attendees in multiple additional sites. All in-person events took place at the Anaheim Convention Center (ACC). “Many of our attend- ees are California-based, so meeting at the Anaheim Convention Center is convenient for our community,” says Pamela Skaggs, director of operations with Informa Markets. “John Wayne Airport in Orange County is only min- utes from the ACC for those who fly in. Anaheim is also a destination city. From wonderful restaurants, top- No trip to a conference or event in Los Angeles would be complete without visiting one of the area’s famous beaches to take a dip in the Pacific Ocean. Photo by Travis Conklin / Discover Los Angeles 58 June/July 2022 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.comnotch hotels and sporting events, to world-renowned amusement parks, [such as Disneyland], Anaheim has so much to offer to attendees when they’re off the show floor.” Skaggs says Informa Markets and IME West have a long-standing com- mitment to sustainability and keeping clients safe and healthy, and Anaheim’s convention center supports those efforts. “The ACC prioritizes its green efforts by creating a ‘green roof,’ utiliz- ing solar power and making sustainable choices when it comes to purchasing. It’s also LEED-certified. In addition to that, the ACC has received the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Star Accreditation. Accreditation is awarded to facilities that follow a high standard of cleaning, disinfection and disease prevention, and follow proper cleaning and disinfecting protocols, and workplace practices.” It’s also stunning. “Immediately upon arrival, you’re greeted by beau- tifully illuminated palm trees and a water feature, warm air and sunshine,” Skaggs says. “At our 2021 event, we hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on the Grand Plaza of the ACC. Visit Ana- heim helped us coordinate a mem- orable event featuring an enthusi- astic presentation by the mayor, a local marching band, chalk art and a unique offering of food and beverage provided by Aramark. There are many great restaurants and activi- ties in the nearby Garden- Walk, and our team enjoyed an ax-throwing experience.” The group met in Anaheim again in mid-spring of this year. “We [looked] forward to hosting a ‘Beer Garden’ on the second-level outdoor California Terrace, as well as a fes- tive welcome reception on the Grand Plaza,” Skaggs says. “This year, [we produced] keynotes in the ballroom and five co-located expos over 670,000 sf of contiguous exhibit space in halls A-D. With well-thought-out meeting space and amenities, the ACC is a great place to do business. Many service pro- viders are available on-site, dedicated to making events successful, and com- plimentary Wi-Fi throughout the lob- bies and meeting space keep attend- ees connected while they’re out of the office at the show.” Skaggs says Visit Anaheim has been “very thoughtful” in incorporat- ing health and safety initiatives dur- ing the planning process, and helped the group find new dates when post- ponement became necessary. “Prior to our site visit, they sent out a form to attendees to better understand their comfort level around ride-shares, dining in restaurants, etc. They also regularly updated event stakeholders with current COVID-19 state, local and facility guidelines. And on arriv- ing at the site visit, we were offered an amenity that included first-aid items, hand sanitizers and reus- able masks. The ACC also required a review of our health and safety plans prior to the event. Visit Anaheim and the ACC partnered with us in devel- oping and executing those plans to ensure the safety of everyone on- site for the event.” One challenge, Skaggs notes, has been navigating the planning of large- scale, indoor events during a pandemic. But, she had help. “Visit Anaheim and the Anaheim Convention Center have truly been partners to Informa Mar- kets and the IME West team through- out this process. These partnerships offered significant support as we produced the first large-scale trade event in California last August since the pandemic began in 2020. We’re very thankful to the incredible staff of these organizations.” Skaggs encourages planners to reach out to Visit Anaheim. “They have so many wonderful tools and ideas to help planners. The earlier or more fre- quently you can engage with them, the greater your event success is likely to be. I would also encourage you to tour the Anaheim Convention Center. It’s a well-laid-out, beautiful and sustain- ability-focused venue, ready to host a myriad of events.” C&IT Informa Markets Engineering West (IME West) held their annual trade event at the Anaheim Convention Center. Courtesy of Pamela Skaggs TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | June/July 2022 59 From wonderful restaurants, top- notch hotels and sporting events, to world-renowned amusement parks ... Anaheim has so much to offer. PAMELA SKAGGS Director of Operations Informa MarketsDESTINATION // Louisiana 60 June/July 2022 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.comI f there’s one quality the city of New Orleans has demonstrated time and again, it’s the ability to face adversity, overcome the odds and ultimately come back stronger than ever. Whether upended due to hurricanes, tornadoes or COVID-19, New Orleans carries on with grit and resiliency. And that’s good news for planners seeking a historic, world- class destination poised to welcome back meetings in 2022 and beyond. “We’ve reignited in-person meetings and special events,” says Stephanie Turner, senior vice president of convention sales & strategies with New Orleans & Company. “In the fall of 2021, we welcomed large city-wide meetings, which brought tens of thousands of visitors to the city. These city-wide events continue to grow in 2022, and include corporate exhibitors and attendees. All COVID restrictions such as masks have been lifted for New Orleans. Furthermore, nearly 80% of local residents are fully vaccinated, which is above the national average.” Beyond the city’s over-the-top, fun-filled Mardi Gras celebrations, New Orleans offers an exciting choice for meeting venues. As if traditional cajun and creole cooking alone weren’t enough to attract visi- tors to its location, when asked to define what makes New Orleans such a desirable destination for planners, Turner doesn’t hesitate: “New Orleans is ‘Built to Host’ and built to bring life to complex meetings and events. Our meeting spaces are uniquely New Orleans. The his- toric rooms, courtyards and world-renowned restau- rants are within walking distance of world-class hotels. More importantly,” Turner adds, “the people of New Orleans are why hospitality is in our roots. All these elements are what bring events and meetings to life to create memorable experiences.” From Turner’s viewpoint, “Unique experiences and unbeatable backdrops set the tone for meetings and events. Our city is ‘Built to Host’ because the entire com- munity is committed to creating memorable experiences. New Orleans’ historic venues and courtyards are not the meeting spaces you’re used to. With every breath, the voices and sounds of our local musicians fill our meeting spaces and streets with the rich, soulful tunes that excite lasting interactions. New Orleans caters to the attendee’s expectations of a uniquely, unparalleled experience.” St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square is one of several iconic buildings located in New Orleans. Photo by Justen Williams Reigniting In-Person Meetings and Special Events ana BY NANCY MUELLER TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | June/July 2022 61CONTINUING TO GROW During the collective pause over the last two-plus years, New Orleans has continued to renovate, innovate and expand its offerings, attracting repeat visitors eager for new unique experi- ences in the “Crescent City.” Turner points out the 26,000 hotel rooms in the downtown area, and cites examples of the city’s growth. “In 2021, we wel- comed The Four Seasons Hotel + Resi- dences, Virgin Hotels New Orleans and Kimpton Hotel Fontenot.” In addition, Turner notes Caesars Entertainment’s $325 million investment “to renovate and rebrand Harrah’s New Orleans Hotel & Casino, with additional plans for a 340-room hotel tower by 2024” as yet one more example of the city’s unstop- pable energy and growth. Ideally located in the heart of down- town on the banks of the Mississippi, “Riverfront luxury” defines the Four Seasons Hotel + Residences. All of its 341 accommodations feature city or river views, and bring the outdoors in with botanical designs and shiplap walls in a nod to riverboats that ply the Mississippi River. Marble bathrooms, spacious showers and customized lighting that transitions the space from day to night are among the special room features. For meetings, 29,000 total sf of event space provides planners with a variety of venues to consider for recep- tions, banquets and breakout rooms from The Garden to two ballrooms to the two-level rooftop observation deck. The hotel offers a 24-hour fitness center, while the newly opened spa showcases several signature experi- ences, such as the Body Method full- body massage and The Southern Gen- tleman, inspired by the city’s favorite cocktail, the Sazerac. A 75-foot out- door pool, plus heated spa tub over- look the Mississippi River. Under the direction of two chef partners, Alon Shaya and Donald Link, the site’s two signature restaurants, Miss River and Chemin À La Mer, offer both elevated and down-home Louisiana food fare infused with the chefs’ own take on the region’s unique flavors. Another popular option for plan- ners and attendees, the redesigned JW Marriott New Orleans, welcomes guests to the historic French Quarter “just moments away from Jackson Square, the French Market and the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Conven- tion Center,” says James Mollere, director of sales, Harrah’s New Orleans. The House of Blues New Orleans and the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas are also nearby, “complementing the attendee experi- ence by offering convenient access to unparalleled dining and attractions,” he says. A variety of 501 guest rooms and suites offer luxurious accommodations in peaceful retreat settings featuring city or French Quarter views, marble bath- rooms and ergonomic workspaces. The hotel’s 23,313 sf of total event space includes 22 flexible event rooms, expert planning services and seating for up to 750 attendees theater-style in the Ile de France Grand Ballroom overlook- ing Canal Street. But it’s not simply the size or number of meeting and event spaces available that attracts planners to the hotel. Rather, says Mollere, it’s the “intricate details, such as magnificent glass chandeliers and New Orleans- inspired crown molding, which blend modern elegance with old-world charm.” Also, guests who reserve an execu- tive-level room enjoy exclusive access to another outstanding feature of the business-friendly hotel: the reimagi- nation of the stylish JW Executive Lounge, offering a host of amenities such as dedicated attendants for assis- tance, complimentary deluxe continen- tal breakfasts, a range of business ser- vices, and a selection of beverages and snacks throughout the day. Evening hors d’oeuvres and an honor bar round out the beverage offerings. For after- business hours, the executive lounge provides flat-screen TVs and a billiard table to help guests relax after a busy day of meetings. Outside of the meeting and business Photo by Justen Williams New Orleans & Company officials are excited to again be a top spot for planners to select for in-person meetings and conventions. 62 June/July 2022 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.com NewOrleans.com | @VisitNewOrleans © 2022 NewOrleans & Company All Rights Reserved. Here, our musicians give the city its sound with every breath. The voices and instruments of brass and soul, jazz and funk, are what makes New Orleans Built to Host. They fill our meeting spaces, venues, street corners, and festival stages, all while preserving our rich cultural history and welcoming your group with a soundtrack you’ll never forget. Call the New Orleans & Company Convention Sales Team at 877.393.5836 email at cnvsales@neworleanscvb.com or visit neworleans.com/meetings to find out how you can incorporate this world-class entertainment into your next event. New Orleans caters to the attendee’s expectations of a uniquely unparalleled experience. STEPHANIE TURNER Senior Vice President of Convention Sales & Strategies New Orleans & CompanyNewOrleans.com | @VisitNewOrleans © 2022 NewOrleans & Company All Rights Reserved. Here, our musicians give the city its sound with every breath. The voices and instruments of brass and soul, jazz and funk, are what makes New Orleans Built to Host. They fill our meeting spaces, venues, street corners, and festival stages, all while preserving our rich cultural history and welcoming your group with a soundtrack you’ll never forget. Call the New Orleans & Company Convention Sales Team at 877.393.5836 email at cnvsales@neworleanscvb.com or visit neworleans.com/meetings to find out how you can incorporate this world-class entertainment into your next event.space, Mollere cites “the hotel’s state- of-the-art 24-hour fitness center, com- plete with new Peloton bikes, a salt- water rooftop pool, a lobby lounge and bar and a bi-level concierge lounge,” all designed to help guests relax, unwind and rejuvenate. “The eighth-floor exec- utive meeting spaces offer a unique atmosphere to foster engagement and productivity with semi-private ter- races,” Mollere says. “With a variety of unique features, such as natural lighting and indoor/outdoor access throughout several of the 19 meetings and events spaces, planners can select from a variety of floorplans to best suit their needs.” For dining, the hotel’s Fogo de Chao steakhouse offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, and features Brazilian churrasco cooking. An all-day Happy Hour spot- lights South American wines and Brazil- ian-inspired cocktails. Or guests can opt for more casual dining in the JW Marri- ott’s Lobby Lounge, also serving creative cocktails, shareable plates and entrees. “From a welcome reception in a bi-level suite, to a large reunion in our Grand Ballroom or post-meeting celebration on one our outdoor terraces, there is something for everyone at the JW Mar- riott New Orleans,” Mollere says. A STORY TO TELL Celebrating the story of the “Great- est Generation,” the art deco-designed Higgins Hotel New Orleans, Curio Collection by Hilton offers 230 “era- inspired” guest rooms in the Arts and Warehouse District near the French Quarter. Acclaimed as the “Official Hotel of the National WWII Museum,” — a history buff’s dream — the eight- story Higgins Hotel is also near the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Con- vention Center, which Turner notes has embarked on a $557 million improve- ment plan, including renovations to 140 meeting rooms and a makeover to its exterior experience. The Higgins also enjoys the distinc- tion as the first hotel in the state of Lou- isiana to be part of the Hilton’s exclu- sive Curio Collection, with all proceeds generated earmarked for the ongoing educational mission of the museum. With the 1940s theme as backdrop, guests are introduced to several unique features set within the luxury hotel. World War II artifacts, such as Gen- eral George S. Patton’s piano, service member and period photos, preserved letters from the war, and glass recre- ations of commonly awarded ribbons and medals are among the numer- ous thoughtful touches. The lobby’s grandeur is reflected in a magnificent bronze staircase, stunning glass chan- delier and a captivating mural of war- time factory workers set against the New Orleans skyline by renowned art- deco artist Michael Kungl. The hotel’s guest rooms and suites include three expansive presidential suites named after WWII-era presidents Harry S. Truman and Franklin D. Roosevelt, and WWII general and later president Dwight D. Eisenhower. Amenities include 55-inch HDTVs, luxury bedding and bedside tablets for ordering convenient in-room dining, while the hotel’s art- deco theme continues with the addition of Victrola record players in selected suites, artwork reflecting both the war and home-front efforts, period lighting and bathroom vanities with under- mount sinks and illuminated mirrors. A state-of-the-art fitness center provides cardiovascular machines, free weights and CrossFit equipment. The hotel offers 18,000 sf of flex- ible event space, with 14 spaces rang- ing from executive boardrooms to an elegant ballroom and includes experi- enced on-site meeting professionals, customized catering menus and state- of-the-art A/V equipment. In addition, as the hotel is attached to the WWII museum, planners have seamless access to the museum’s spaces. Continuing the 1940s theme, Vir- gile Brandel, executive chef, leads the culinary team at the Higgins Hotel & Conference Center, which includes four distinct dining outlets from grab- n’-go options at Provisions to a country French-inspired bistro at Café Nor- mandie, the casual Kilroy lobby bar that pays homage to the iconic WWII cartoon character, and Rosie’s on the Roof honoring women factory workers notable for their wartime efforts. “When attendees visit New Orleans,” Turner says, “we treat them with the same amount of attention and hospitality given to a single, lifelong friend. The people in the community and our hospitality workers are the architects of how we execute and deliver complex in-person meetings and events.” Turner advises meeting planners to be sure to fully utilize New Orleans & Company to plan their next event. “Our diverse group of professionals are the most-trusted Photo by Justen Williams The Creole Queen steamboat, with the Mississippi River Bridge pictured in rear, is one of the many off-site activities offered in New Orleans. 64 June/July 2022 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.comresource for all phases of planning and executing meetings and conventions in New Orleans.” She adds, “Meeting planners can rely on our experienced sales, services and marketing teams to provide a seamless workflow in a dynamic, fast-paced meeting environment. The comprehensive sourcing assistance, convention services offerings, and customized marketing and attendance-building tools, coupled with the new developments in the city and the authentic culture, are all what make New Orleans the best choice to conduct business.” BATON ROUGE Just more than an hour’s drive to the northwest, Baton Rouge is looking forward to the return of meetings and events as well. Before the pandemic, business travel alone — meetings and conventions — in East Baton Rouge brought in $54 million in economic impact. But the pandemic, like it did to cities nationwide, took a huge bite out of city’s economy. As the pandemic wanes, officials are hopeful for a big comeback. “Visit Baton Rouge is planning for a future that will strengthen East Baton Rouge Parish’s tourism industry and economy,” says Paul Arrigo, CDME, president and CEO of Visit Baton Rouge in a news release. “We’re not only cel- ebrating our 50th anniversary this year, but we are also determined to focus on how travel benefits our workforce, sup- ports our local economy, fosters sustain- ability and innovations, and reconnects Americans to each other and the world. We will continue to support the many events that bring in visitors to have one of the best experiences of their lives.” Baton Rouge offers a host of unique meeting venues, such as The Cook Hotel and Conference Center at Louisiana State University, which offers just more than 11,000 sf of event facilities encom- passing nine conference rooms and ban- quet halls featuring the latest A/V tech- nology. The Ashley Manor Reception & Conference Center, set on 4.5 acres, can accommodate up to 500 attendees and features two banquet rooms. Downtown convention hotels include Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center, which offers 34,000 sf of total event space, including 16 meeting rooms, the Riverview room at 7,000 sf and the Pool Deck at 14,000 sf. The Raising Cane’s River Center complex features a 30,000-sf arena, two exhibition halls totaling 70,000 sf, a 2,000-seat theater, two ballrooms totaling just more than 26,000 sf, a gal- leria and 21 meeting rooms total- ing nearly 19,000 sf. “The impact that we’ve had on this city has been a reward of its own,” Arrigo says of Visit Baton Rouge’s effect on the city. “We’re known for being an effective organization that knows how to get the job done, no matter what the cir- cumstances are. We’ve always managed to excel in our roles here, and I couldn’t be more excited and proud of our team that we’re celebrat- ing 50 years of serving this community.” SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER Located in Louisiana’s extreme northwestern corner, the Shreveport- Bossier area makes its own claim to fame as a place for foodies and music lovers. Home to six casinos, the area offers plenty of gaming and activi- ties. Nothing gets an attendee’s mind away from a long day of meetings more than a swamp-buggy tour or a visit to the Sanctuary Glass Studio for special glass-making experiences and more. The 350,000-sf Shreveport Conven- tion Center can accommodate large expos, state and national association annual meet-ups, religious conferences, board meetings and sports events. It also has a 10,545-seat theater. The 311- room Hilton Shreveport is connected to the convention center and offers over- flow meeting space of nearly 245,000 sf, which includes the 97,197-sf SCC Main Exhibition Hall and 22 meeting rooms. The Shreveport-Bossier Conven- tion and Tourist Bureau offers a wide variety of services to planners to ensure a great conference. Based on the num- ber of hotel rooms used, services may include bags that can include visitor guides, maps and promotional items; site visits for pre-planning purposes; event marketing, such as news release distribution, email blasts, direct mail, video and other collateral; registration and planning assistance; marketing col- lateral, such as high-resolution images and save-the-date cards to boost atten- dance, and a volunteers program. C&IT Photo courtesy of Visit Baton Rouge Visit Baton Rouge, which is celebrating its 50th year, has helped many planners who chose Baton Rouge to host an event or activity. TheMeetingMagazines.com | Corporate & Incentive Travel | June/July 2022 65 We’ve always managed to excel in our roles here, and I couldn’t be more excited and proud of our team that we’re celebrating 50 years of serving this community. PAUL ARRIGO, CDME President and CEO Visit Baton RougeSTAPLESMALDONADO HAMILTONELKINGTON WRIGHTPADILLA DAEFFLERERNEY OURADNIKCANADAY ON THE MOVE // The Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. (CVC) has added Eddie Canaday to the sales team as director, national accounts. He has more than 30 years of experience under his belt. Based in Washington, D.C., Canaday will be serving the mid-Atlantic area. Before this role, he worked for Visit Salt Lake as a representative for the D.C. market. Suncadia Resort has hired Jeff Ouradnik as the new director of sales and marketing. With more than 20 years of experience, he most recently worked as director of sales and marketing at Margaritaville Resort in Palm Springs, CA. He also held that position at Hyatt Regency in Austin, TX and Hyatt Regency Lake Washington in Renton, WA. Jennifer Erney has been brought back to Accor, this time as exec- utive director of global sales, meetings & incentives and industry relations. Prior to this recent appointment, she was regional vice president of sales with Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI. She also worked with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Kimpton Hotels & Resorts and Loews Hotels. The Charter at Beaver Creek has announced that it has hired Stacy Daeffler as their new associate director of sales. Before this position, she served as manager of Destination Colorado Meetings for 10 years, working in various capacities. She will be responsible for developing group markets, managing room bookings and func- tion space and more. The Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa has appointed William Elkington as director of sales & marketing. With more than a decade of experience, Elkington has been the director of group sales at the hotel since 2018. Before this, he worked with The Resort at Squaw Creek in Olympic Val- ley, CA as national sales manager, among other positions. Sonesta International Hotels Corporation has promoted Kaaren Hamilton to vice president of global sales. Hamilton has 30 years of hospitality experience, and joined Sonesta in connection with the RLH Corporation acquisition. She served as vice president of global sales, franchise & development at RLH. Previously, she was the vice president of global sales for Carlson Rezidor Hotels. The JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson, AZ has brought on Daniel Padilla as director of sales and marketing. He began his career in this location as an event manager and worked in other jobs before taking a position at W Austin, where he moved up to be direc- tor of sales & marketing. The Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. has promoted industry veteran Scott Wright to senior vice president. Wright has 33 years of experience. He spent 22 of them working at NCVC, most recently as vice president of sales. He also worked with the San Jose Convention & Visitors Bureau, Fairmont Hotels, Loews Hotels and Hyatt Hotels. Hilton Miami Airport Blue Lagoon announced that it has hired Melinda Maldonado as its new director of sales & marketing. She started with the property in March 2011 as international sales manager and was promoted to assistant director of sales before being named to her new role. She has more than 21 years of experience overall. Visit Salt Lake has promoted Karen Staples, CMP, CASE, from direc- tor of northeast sales to managing director of sales for their east coast office. She will now be booking meetings and convention busi- ness throughout Washington, D.C. and the northeast regions. She also worked for Talley Management Group Inc., the Spokane Regional CVB and the Greater Hartford Convention Bureau. C&IT 66 June/July 2022 | Corporate & Incentive Travel | TheMeetingMagazines.comMAKA ALA LOBBY‘ KAIONA BALLROOM KA WA A, A LU AU‘‘ 18-HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF COURSE AULANI CONFERENCE CENTER Kaiona Ballroom 4,590 sq ft Ka ala Ballroom 2,885 sq ft Covered Pre-Function 4,715 sq ft Kipuka Lawn 5,195 sq ft Kipuka Courtyard 3,633 sq ft Na auao Room 240 sq ft Total 21,258 sq ft OUTDOOR VENUES Wailana Pool 9,250 sq ft Rainbow Reef Patio 1,766 sq ft Kula Wai 3,000 sq ft Ka Maka Landing 16,000 sq ft Halawai Lawn 12,800 sq ft Aulani Beach 20,000+* sq ft AMA AMA Patio 4,869 sq ft AMA AMA Veranda Alohi Point Total 76,685 sq ft • Additional function space may be available, depending on specific event configuration. ‘ ‘ ‘‘ ‘‘ When you partner with AULANI, A Disney Resort & Spa, our expert planners work with you every step of the way, to make sure your event isn’t just fully customizable, but brings the sights and sounds of the Hawaiian culture to your meeting attendees. Set on the pristine western coastline of O‘ahu, this 21-acre oceanfront resort offers more than 76,000 square feet of stunning outdoor venues and 21,258 square feet of meeting and event space. Add to that the award-winning Laniwai Spa, fine dining and shopping, KA WA‘A, A Lu‘au, Ko Olina Marina, an 18-hole championship golf course, Hawaiian-style excursions specifically designed for groups and the comfort of 832 rooms you’ve got everything you could want to create a magical event with a Hawaiian flair. For more information, call 321-939-4031 or visit disneymeetings.com/Aulani. AULANI, A DISNEY RESORT & SPA HONOLULU WAIKIKI OAHU ‘ NORTH SHORENext >