Although certainly people are behind every aspect of planning and producing meetings and events, in these categories they are paramount. Guests of our 2010 Best of Awards gala at the Henry Ford Museum experienced first-hand the humor and talent that puts Three Men and a Tenor, capturing their second win for Best Entertainment, head and shoulders above the rest.
In tribute to standards set and relationships formed, we have two other repeat winners: Events North, Best Meeting/Event Planning Company and the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau (Best CVB). As Tim Hinkley, executive director of the National Cherry Festival notes in testimony for Events North and Owner Allison Beers-whose broad planning experience spans 15 years and events for more than 100,000 attendees-“If you’re involved in anything in Traverse City, you come across Allison’s path quite often.”
And if you’ve planned a meeting or event in Traverse City, it’s likely the CVB was involved, because “The Traverse City CVB becomes a partner when designing, building and implementing your convention promotion,” says Jim Ballard, executive director of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals.
Behind all great people in the industry is the great service they deliver. A runner-up last year, Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa moved up to No. 1 in Best Service. “I have had the occasion to enjoy Crystal Mountain’s amenities at least once a year for the past 12 or so years,” says Michael Overton, county administrator for Cheboygan County. “The staff is always attentive and eager to please.”
>>Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB)
THE WINNER IS: Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau
RUNNERS-UP: Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau, Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau
>>Entertainment
THE WINNER IS: Three Men and a Tenor
RUNNERS-UP: Mike Staff Productions, Mary Ann Productions
>>Meeting/Event Planning Company
THE WINNER IS: Events North
RUNNERS-UP: Emerald City Designs, Event Depot
>>Service
THE WINNER IS: Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa
RUNNERS-UP: The Henry Ford, Lexington Lansing Hotel
