Communications and Events Manager; National Dairy Herd Information Association; Verona, Wis.
Describe your event.
The International Committee for Animal Recording 36th Session was held at the Conference Center Niagara Falls, Crowne Plaza Niagara Falls and Grand Niagara Hotel (now the Holiday Inn). There were 450 attendees from 43 countries on hand to share information regarding animal identification and recording. They were animal science researchers, government officials, animal recording manufacturers and animal association executive directors.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Niagara Falls, N.Y.? It’s known internationally for its beauty. In its 60-plus-year history, the group had never met in the U.S. New York has a strong dairy industry.
What surprised you the most? The outstanding support from Niagara Tourism and Convention Corp., and the conference center was always there to meet our wants and needs, and never responded with “no” to any of our requests.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most? Outstanding food and beverage, beautiful scenery and a wonderful conference center venue that was comfortable with outstanding technology.
Was anybody particularly helpful? Bob Ferer and Linda Persico at Conference Center Niagara Falls; Reanna Darone at Niagara Tourism and Convention Corp., and Christa Beal, now at the Holiday Inn.
What other types of groups would fit well with the center? Most groups smaller than 500 would fit well at Conference Center Niagara Falls.
What were some of the unique off-site venues that you used? Top of the Falls restaurant.
Did you incorporate any interesting excursions into the agenda? Day tours included the wine trail, Lockport, the outlet mall, and history of Buffalo and dairy farm tours.
How does Niagara Falls compare to other places where you have hosted meetings? Excellent.
Would you return? Yes.
Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a meeting to Niagara Falls, N.Y.? Host an event between May and October at Top of the Falls restaurant.