National American Meetings Industry Day (NAMID)

April 28, 2015 By Leave a Comment

MEETINGS MEAN BUSINESS

For the first time the U.S. and Mexico have joined Canada, the originators of the North American Meetings Industry Day (NAMID), which was commemorated on Thursday, April 16th.  The purpose of this event was to make a powerful statement on the value and strength of the global meetings industry. Twenty years ago the Canadian Chapters of Meeting Professionals International (MPI) came together to create this event. The Meetings Mean Business (MMB) campaign creates an information and advocacy platform that underscores the industry’s role in not only driving business success but creating jobs and generating economic value.

Successful events where held at various locations throughout the United States including Southern California. If you missed attending an event this year, please keep an eye out for upcoming events. Since next year will be the second NAMID program we expect more programs and greater participation.

Meetings Mean Business is organized around three pillars:

  • Personal Connections – stresses the benefits of in-person meetings and events
  • Positive Business Outcomes – create a set of tools that better measure industry ROI
  • Strong Communities – encourages all to join the campaign

 

By: Rosa L. McArthur, CMP

 

 

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Southern Hospitality

October 15, 2014 By Leave a Comment

Woolworth Bldg, GreensborophotoDo you recognize this location?  It has a very popular downtown walking area.  If you stay at the right property you are in walking distance to the International Civil Rights Museum, numerous restaurants and lots of shopping venues. It has an aquatic center that is almost 80,000 square feet.  It is home to Bennett College and it has many beautiful gardens, arboretums, a cultural center at Festival Park and lots of fun activities. Remember that I am only listing a few of the gems that you or a group can enjoy especially in the summer months. 

I was there the beginning of August for a social function (family reunion) and had an enjoyable time.  Have you guessed the location?  You are right!  It is Greensboro, NC.  I have visited the State of North Carolina for other types of meetings and events and including this destination to my list was a plus. It is certainly a great location for a meeting.  My group loved the fact that once they arrived at the Downtown Marriott they could park their cars and for the next few days relax, enjoy fellowship, share family stories, enjoy good food and experience southern hospitality.

Speaking of good food, the welcome reception opened with a spread of home prepared hors d’oeuvres and southern dishes. It was not difficult for the guests to realize they had returned to the south, and were some place close to their upbringing.  Everyone had a wonderful evening sharing stories about their travels, family updates and how they planned to enjoy the remainder of their visit together.

Civil Rights Museum LobbyPaul Robeson ICR MusuemAfter breakfast on Saturday morning we headed off to visit the International Civil Rights Museum three short blocks from the hotel.  For the baby boomers and seniors the video reenactments and displays took them back down memory lane as they relived some of the civil right struggles and accomplishments. It was nice to see the young people ask questions and express such an interest as they toured the museum. Many of them were not even born during the movement so seeing them express such an appreciation for this educational venue was heartwarming.  The museum limits picture taking but I was able to take a few photos in the lobby area before our 1.5 hour tour of the facility. If you are in the area this museum is a must see tour. You will appreciate the brave efforts and displays of courage by mostly young people at the time who paved the way for all people to live and experience the American Dream. This museum should be put on your bucket list. I think you will agree there is a lot to do and see in Greensboro. NC.  I also want to thank the Greensboro CVB for their support and assistance with this family reunion.

 

By: Lenise Fourcault

 

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Cancun, Mexico – Place to Remember!

October 8, 2014 By 1 Comment

238In April I had the opportunity to travel to Cancun, Mexico.  It is located on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Mexican State of Quintana Roo. I had a few new clients who were looking to bring groups to Cancun.  As their meeting planner part of my job was to make sure that the destination would adequately meet all of their requirements. I must say I was pleasantly surprised.  New hotel brands in the area, like the Grand Residences by Royal Resorts, and recent renovations made my visit a real pleasure. The properties along what I refer to as hotel row have a good sense of security which is always important personally and for my groups.

099246Cancun is a gorgeous destination with stunning beaches, aqua blue water and lots of sunshine. I am partial to properties located on the Caribbean Sea.  Many groups especially those incentive ones would definitely fall in love with the destination. 

I left my office in California traveling on Aero Mexico Airlines. We connected through Mexico City and enjoyed on time, pleasant travels. Upon my arrival my pre-arranged ground transportation was awaiting. My driver knew which hotel I was staying which came in handy when I had to track down where I left my camera which managed to fall out of my tote bag. I notified the Concierge Desk and they immediately called the taxi service. I was so happy to have my camera returned.  You all know how distressing it is when something like this happens.  And, you always remember the photos that got away. This helped sell me on Cancun as a destination!

 

By: Lenise Fourcault

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St. John’s Newfoundland and Labrador

October 1, 2014 By Leave a Comment

NF-Colorful RowhousesNF Houses-MoreNF HomesRecently I had the distinct pleasure of visiting a place I had never been to before. The purpose of my trip was to locate a destination for an incentive group. Some place that would have an overwhelming appeal. The mission was to identify a place with a feel of the great outdoors, lots of water sporting activities, museums, several team building options, good food and lots of fun. Personally I wanted it to be stimulating, rugged, charming, and possess a compelling story.

The destination is Newfoundland and Labrador, it had all of the above, and more. The narrow colorful row homes seen above with the small doors and windows were seen all throughout St. John’s and the surrounding towns.

Lighthouse-NFSignal Hill-NFMy explorations started in the small town of St. John’s. I found the residents to be friendly, energetic, and spirited. They showed a deep concern and interest in visitors. I had the feeling I had been there before but I think it was because St. John’s is the kind of place that reminds you of so many other places. So far up in the North Atlantic Ocean, I even had the feeling I was in the Caribbean. Mind you my visit was during the summer! With the bright sunny days and clear blue skies it was not difficult visualizing the Caribbean.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a destination appreciated with pictures. What a beautiful coastline, small islands, icebergs and as much ocean as the eyes can see.  You will probably feel like I did, it is many destinations in one destination. I found what I was looking for!

As for the compelling stories there are many. Some told in legends and others put to music. They even have their own dog named after the country, the Newfoundland.  He is a large strong working dog used to pull nets for fisherman and haul wood from the forest.  He is well suited to work on land or water, known to be a good swimmer and equally strong “pack horse.” Sweet-natured and responsive, he makes a wonderful family companion as well.  The Labrador Retriever also hails from this area of Canada.

Oh almost forgot, tradition has it that before you depart St. John’s you must kiss the cod.  That’s a long story, but I kept with tradition!

  Friendly Horse-MeNewfoundland Dog

By Rosa L. McArthur

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