Midwest Meetings | Hotels/Resorts News & Views

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Associated Luxury Hotels International (ALHI) has expanded the Midwest

The Chase Park Plaza hotel becomes ALHI’s second member hotel in Missouri, joining the brand new Hotel Sorella Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, which will open this fall.
The Chase Park Plaza is an elegant historic landmark hotel which recently completed an impressive renovation. Featuring 338 luxurious guest rooms and suites, the stylish 11-story hotel features more than 65,000 square feet of meeting space, which includes the magnificent Khorassan Ballroom that can accommodate up to 2,500 guests, as well as a 30,000-square-foot Conference Center. Founded in 1922 as The Chase, the exemplary hotel has hosted U.S. presidents, kings, movie stars, popular singers, and other political leaders. Hotel amenities include four outstanding restaurants (including The Tenderloin Room and Eau Bistro), a five-screen cinema that shows current releases (and which is available for private screenings and meetings for up to 165 guests), a first-class spa and salon, an 18,000-square-foot fitness and wellness center, a full-service business center, concierge, Mediterranean-style outdoor heated pool, and a gift & coffee shop. The Chase Park Plaza is the only full-service hotel directly situated in the fashionable and vibrant Central West End neighborhood, one of the city’s most popular dining and entertainment areas. In addition, The Chase Park Plaza hotel is across the street from Forest Park, home to fine museums, the world-renowned St. Louis Zoo, and one of the country’s finest public golf courses. The hotel is just minutes from Busch Stadium, Anheuser Busch Brewery, the downtown and Clayton business districts, St. Louis Gateway Arch, the 79-acre Missouri Botanical Garden, the St. Louis Convention Center, Riverboat Gaming and Casinos, and Lambert International Airport.

Oshkosh Ready to Tackle Major Conventions After Renovation of Waterfront Hotel

Conventions can be stressful: Traveling, rental cars and cabs, finding a hotel. But stress no more! Oshkosh has streamlined the convention experience. Visitors can now attend their conventions and stay in a completely renovated hotel, all without ever setting foot outside.

The Best Western Premier Waterfront Hotel and Convention Center, formerly the City Center Hotel, is now open following a $12 million overhaul that includes a skywalk to the convention center. Guests will enjoy 176 beautifully appointed river-view hotel rooms with upgraded amenities including microwaves, refrigerators and 42” flat screen HDTVs. They can also enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast before attending their meetings, free wireless Internet and a business center conveniently located in the lobby. It is the only hotel in the area located on the water complete with docks to provide access to the Fox River and Lake Winnebago. Named a Best Western “premier” property (one of just 25 worldwide) for its upscale décor and plush amenities, attendees are sure to be impressed by this brand new space. Read more...

MileNorth™, A Chicago Hotel Unveils A Windy City First: Ferris & Jack, an Eatery by the Mile

MileNorth™, A Chicago Hotel introduces Ferris & Jack, an Eatery by The Mile, formerly C-House, on May 1. This casual and chic restaurant, marketplace and lobby bar aims to transform the way hotel guests and Chicagoans alike gather and dine through its open layout and residential feel.
Inspired by two beloved Chicago firsts – the Ferris Wheel and Cracker Jack, which were both introduced in the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair – Ferris & Jack has an eclectic and approachable vibe. The open and welcoming venue, equipped with gratis Wi-Fi throughout, is ideal for grabbing coffee on the go, having an impromptu meeting, enjoying a casual dinner or working through the day.
“Truly inspired by the essence of Chicago, Ferris & Jack exudes what the city is made of from the design to signature items in the restaurant and marketplace,” said Heidi Edinger, CMP, CASE, director of sales and marketing for the hotel. “It’s bold, home like décor complements our mission to provide genuine Midwestern hospitality. It’s an ideal atmosphere to mingle, strike up a conversation or sit back and relax with a Midwest craft brew.”
Guests will find subtle nods to the famed-Chicago skyline throughout the venue, which was envisioned by award-winning global design firm Getty’s. The warm linear fireplace captures the look of skyscrapers throughout the city using varied lanterns. The front desk, comprised of repurposed, vintage steamer trunks, is set in front of a custom lighting fixture wall which represents the landscape of the Windy City and the Chicago River, through glass-lit boxes. The warm glow can be seen from the sidewalk, captivating passersby. The materials used recall the makeup of the city with a herringbone wood ceiling, white subway tile, smoked antique mirrors and dark woods mixed with vibrant bursts of lime green and orange accents.

Historic Davenport hotel “defines the unique guest experience”

Hotel Blackhawk management is pleased to announce that it has officially taken its place in the progressive Autograph Collection hotel network.
The Autograph Collection® (www.autographhotels.com), launched by Marriott in 2010 is, “an evolving ensemble of strikingly independent hotels. Each destination has been selected for its bold originality, rich character and uncommon details.” Hotels are listed in different categories such as Artistic Getaways, Historic Explorations, Culinary Delight, Urban Excitement and Wedding Celebration. This new affiliation will also enable Hotel Blackhawk to offer and accept Marriott Rewards®.
Joining a network of properties that promotes individuality is another important step for Hotel Blackhawk’s role in gaining attention for the City of Davenport, Iowa, and the Quad Cities. This effort has been highlighted with notable achievements such as its recent status as a 2013 Recommended Property in the Forbes Travel Guide, 2012 AAA Four Diamond Award-Lodgings, 2012 TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence Award, the Bix Bistro’s 2012 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, as well as 2011 and 2012 Smart Meetings Platinum Choice Award recognition.
“One-of-a-kind hotels in the Autograph Collection serve the discerning tastes of those looking for travel accommodations beyond the ordinary, predictable routine of hotel chains,” said General Manager Tim Heim. “Hotel Blackhawk represents the type of singular, high-personality hotel that doesn’t just offer guests a unique experience – but actually defines it.”
Hotel Blackhawk re-opened in December 2010. The hotel retains its 98-year-old historic character while featuring modern conveniences throughout the 130 guestrooms and extended-stay suites, six meeting rooms, and up to 300-person banquet capacity in the signature Gold Room.
For more information, visit www.hotelblackhawk.com or find us on www.facebook.com (Search: Hotel Blackhawk).
Located on the Mississippi River in the Midwest, the Quad Cities is comprised of Davenport and Bettendorf, Iowa; Rock Island and Moline/East Moline, Illinois; and surrounding communities.

Cigars, Whiskey and Irving Berlin Define Waterfront Site
Historic Site To Reopen As A Place For Fun And Celebration

Gun Lake’s, circa 1886, 5,000 square foot boat house had always been a place of laughter and high spirits. Mike and Patti Powers, owners of Bay Pointe Inn, plan to carry on the tradition by transitioning the facility to an exclusive retreat for weddings, corporate venues and family reunions.
The four-bedroom, three-bath, waterfront estate, now named the Boat House at Bay Pointe Inn, will combine charm, history and up-to-date indulgence. “The changes being made are in total respect to the integrity of the building while meeting the modern expectations of our guests.” explains Mike.
The private facility will offer three bars, one upper level (cabana covered), another serving the courtyard and patio area along with a Cigar bar. It has complete audio and video capability, wireless internet, pool hall, speakeasy lounge, outdoor fireplace, patios on all sides with open air porches front and back, state-of-the-art kitchen with on-site service staff along with boat rental from their marina.
Fitness center, pool and full service restaurant are available at the Inn.
The Boat House is currently accepting reservations for the 2013 season.
For more information about Bay Pointe Inn, please visit www.baypointeinn.com.

Radisson Blu Mall of America Announces Premiere Shopping Program

Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., opening on March 15 and conveniently attached to the country’s largest shopping mall, is complementing its unique location with one of America’s premiere hotel guest shopping program and exclusive visitor packages. Capitalizing on the hotel’s location and the state’s tax-free clothing shopping, the program and packages emphasize excellence in service, personalized experiences and attention to detail that guests have come to expect from the upper upscale Radisson Blu brand.
The shopping program, available to all overnight Radisson Blu Mall of America guests, will offer an unmatched, tailored itinerary for both budget-conscious visitors and guests seeking a luxurious shopping experience. The standard program includes access to private sales, Mall of America® discounts, parking validation, and personal shopping services. To ease the pain of carrying bags after a long day of shopping, the program also features a package pick-up service, where a Radisson Blu team member will meet guests in the Mall of America® and ensure their purchases are hand-delivered to their guestroom.
“We’re thrilled to offer this exclusive shopping program to Radisson Blu Mall of America,” said General Manager, Harry Gorstayn. “Being connected to a destination that brings in over 40 million visitors each year, it just makes sense to provide a personalized shopping service that uniquely enhances the Radisson Blu guest experience.”
Interested guests can simply opt-in to the program during the reservation process with no added cost to their stay. The guest will then receive a pre-arrival call from a Radisson Blu Mall of America team member, during which they can discuss their individual shopping preferences and expectations for the program. Upon arrival, guests will receive a welcome packet, including a Mall of America® map, letter from their personal concierge, reusable shopping bag, and personalized itinerary of their stay.
For more information please visit http://www.radisson.com/bloomington-hotel-mn-55425/usablma or call +1 (952) 881-5258

The Alexander Hotel in downtown Indianapolis opening in January 2013

Opening January 2013, The Alexander Hotel is Dolce Hotels and Resorts newest property in downtown Indianapolis. Located in the heart of CityWay, a new 14-acre neighborhood that also includes residential, office and retail space, The Alexander is within walking distance of major corporations and attractions.
Accommodations at The Alexander are 209 total rooms, including 157 guest rooms and suites and 52 extended-stay units. Rooms at the hotel showcase striking works of art, against a backdrop of neutral decor. Luxurious, plush beds with fresh white bedding welcome guests at the end of the day. Busniness travelers are able to enjoy complimentary wireless internet access throughout the hotel and all rooms include desks to enhance productivity. In-room dinining is also available for guests or they can head down the Cerulean Restaurant for some tasty cuisine.
The Alexander is designed for meetings. Meeting spaces include The Alexander Ballroom, The Ralston Penthouse Boardroom, four additional meeting rooms of various sizes, eight breakout rooms and a 2,400 sq. ft. outdoor terrace. Since the hotel is a member of the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC), it adheres to the association’s standards, ensuring the highest quality facilities and services. All-inclusive packages are available, encompassing everything from meals and coffee/refreshment breaks to A/V equipment. Meeting rooms are equipped with LCD projectors, DVD players, video monitors, flip charts and an electronic whiteboard. Large meeting rooms have built in screens.
So if you are looking for a place to host your next event, The Alexander Hotel in Indianapolis is the perfect choice! For more information please visit www.thealexander.com.

Wilderness Territory in Wisconsin Dells Announces New Attraction for Li’l Squirts

Li’l squirts visiting the Wilderness Territory this summer now have something new to look forward to. The resort announced today it is constructing a new Bear Foot Island Sprayground in its New Frontier outdoor waterpark located behind the Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort.
This splash-tastic area will have woodsy-themed spraying fountains, exploding ground geysers, shooting water jets and other fun water play features such as a giant drenching bull frog loop and a silly spraying water bug. It will also have abundant seating surrounding it making it an ideal spot for parents to relax and enjoy a warm summer day at the Wilderness.

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Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg Undergoing Hotel Room Upgrades
Three hundred room renovations to be completed by mid-May

Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg's 300 hotel rooms and corridors, which have been undergoing renovations since late December, will be unveiled in July and will complement the overall design of the property‚s casino floor and restaurants. Inspired by the 1930s and 1940s‚ elegant art deco style, the renovated rooms are intended to transport guests back to the glamorous golden age of Hollywood.
"It is our goal to treat every one of our guests like a star," said Todd George, vice president and general manager of Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg, "and we feel these renovations greatly complement their overall Hollywood experience."
Bathed in rich Hollywood gold and black, the hotel's renovated corridors are amplified by a lavish, red rose motif-design carpet, providing a plush pop of color and a subtle allusion to the famous red carpet. Inside each room, crisp white beds offset the warm tones used throughout the room. The remodeled bathrooms are elegant with simple, yet sophisticated deco-style, gold trim-framed mirrors, set to complement the black granite countertops.
Iconic prints featured in each room by photographer George Hurrell embody the spirit of glitz and glamour, inviting guests to take a step back into a time when Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, Gary Cooper, Marlene Dietrich, Frank Sinatra and other stars who graced box offices with their timeless classics. Each of the hotel's five floors feature different actors and actresses of the era.
The renovations are being completed floor by floor, and the hotel remains open throughout construction. All of Hollywood's smoking and non-smoking rooms include free high-speed Internet, 42" LCD TVs, coffee makers and a wakeup call/messaging center. Reservations can be made online at www.hollywoodindiana.com or by calling 888-274-6797.

Meetings and Retreats Stay Afloat at Lake Lawn with Cardboard Boat Regattas
Teams learn about themselves and others through this “out of the box” activity

Ice breakers and team building activities can be viewed as a waste of time by some and received with an eye roll by others. However, when planned with specific goals in mind these out-of-office activities can strengthen employee relationships and unite a group. One unconventional activity that is bringing groups together effectively is cardboard boat regattas at Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan, WI.
As a longstanding Wisconsin resort and meeting venue for area businesses, Lake Lawn continues to thrive after its 2011 reopening aiming to uphold its first-rate services and amenities to meet the ongoing needs of visiting groups. In an effort to innovate and offer a meaningful experience to the attendees, Lake Lawn has added cardboard boat races to its list of unique activities.
“A degree in ship building or engineering is not required to do well, just a willingness to engage, be creative, and be decisive,” said Lake Lawn’s Recreation Manager Mark Sperle. “It is also an opportunity for everyone to look back on the day’s races, share some laughs, and make some memories that everyone will talk about when they go back to the office.” From designing and building the boat to racing it on the water, teams will encounter challenges throughout the process that are similar to real world scenarios: project modifications, staff changes, material shortages, etc.
The overall goal of this event is to build a "sea-worthy" craft using only cardboard, tape, and a 6 by 8 foot plastic tarp within 90 minutes. Teams work together by bringing their talents to the table to accomplish the task at hand. The finished boat is then launched into Lake Lawn’s pool with one captain that paddles down the length of the pool and back while being timed. The fastest time wins the glory, and any prize(s) the group may want to include as an incentive. From start to finish the activity takes between two to three hours depending on the size of the group. Ideal team sizes are four to five people per boat, but can be done with teams as small as two.
Cardboard boat regattas are an effective activity for any meeting or retreat including corporate groups, church groups, and even families. Most recently Lake Lawn hosted a couples retreat that was skeptical of this activity at first, but embraced the competition once the building began and the creative juices started to flow.
For more information on Lake Lawn Resort’s list of activities and meeting spaces please contact Brenda Dobbert at 262.725.9146.or visit www.lakelawnresort.com.

Hilton Opens Convention Hotel in Downtown Columbus, Ohio

A new convention hotel, the Hilton Columbus Downtown, has opened in downtown Columbus, Ohio, Hilton Hotels & Resorts announced last week.
"Today is a significant milestone in the longstanding relationship between Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the City of Columbus and our distinguished business partners involved in this monumental project," said Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman. "Hilton Columbus Downtown will attract millions of new visitors and make Columbus a best-in-class destination for national conventions and events."
Connected to the Greater Columbus Convention Center by a 380,000-pound pedestrian skybridge, the $140 million hotel offers 532 guest rooms and 31,000 square feet of meeting and banquet space, not to mention a full-service French bistro-inspired restaurant specializing in locally-sourced ingredients.
"Hilton Hotels & Resorts values its partnership with the City of Columbus and Franklin County," said Dave Horton, global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. "This area is a growing center of tourism and events in Central Ohio. The opening of Hilton Columbus Downtown is an important and exciting addition to the Hilton family of properties."
Because it's located in the city's arts district, the hotel also features a collection of more than 225 original art pieces, as well as paintings, sculpture and photographs from more than 128 local artists.
"Situated in the center of the arts, entertainment and business districts, Hilton Columbus Downtown reflects the creative spirit and energy of Ohio's capital city," said General Manager Christian Coffin. "The property features a sleek and contemporary look, and offers the perfect combination of comfort, convenience and affordability, setting the tone for guests' and visitors' expectations."
The new hotel is a major boon for Columbus, which expects the property to increase its competitive advantage in the market for meetings and events.
More info can be found at www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ohio/hilton-columbus-downtown-CMHDWHH/index.html

Hyatt Offers Real Time Tracking for Meeting Planners with the Launch of Group Bill

Hyatt Hotels & Resorts today launched its industry leading Group Bill technology, a real time billing and tracking system developed with planners input and needs in mind. Hyatt’s new time saving Group Bill tool is an industry first, and allows meeting planners to track and reconcile costs daily from the comfort of their own computer or workspace. The interactive PDF offers planners a table of contents, general summaries with hyperlinks back to the original charge, distinguishing colors, extra white space to ease eyestrain, multiple levels of billing detail, and a reduction in desk cluttering paper work.
“Hyatt’s new Group Bill simplifies the billing process and gives the most valuable currency back to our customers – time,” said Rodahl Leong-Lyons, Vice President of Sales Operations, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. “Our customers’ satisfaction is as important as our guests’, and by listening, we were able to create a new tool to better service their needs,” continued Leong-Lyons.
Hyatt’s new Group Bill is an added benefit to The Hyatt Meetings Network, and is yet another example of how Hyatt drives to deliver the most options and time saving tools for meeting planners and customers.
For more information about The Hyatt Meetings Network, please visit: www.hyattmeetings.com or call +1 855 374 9288. Watch The Hyatt Meetings Network new video campaign:www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fto9RLRzLqw.