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B M & T ••• September/October 2015 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 24 VIRGINIA BEACH CONVENTION CENTER – VIRGINIA BEACH, VA Virginia Beach is a meeting locale that rivals any on the East Coast. With more hotels, entertainment, shopping and dining options than ever, it's the ideal place to bring people together year- round. You'll find the perfect balance of coastal charm and big-city amenities. There's a Virginia Beach vibe that's right for your event. The city showcases venues and amenities that appeal to associa- tions of all sizes and riv al most metropolitan areas. At the center of it all is the Virginia Beach Convention Center, the Nation's first convention center to earn LEED® Gold certifica- tion1 from the U.S. Green Building Council. It can hold any size meeting imaginable, with over 525,125 gross sq. ft., over 150,000 sq. ft. of column-free exhibit space, nearly 29,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, over 31,000 sq. ft. ballroom (one of the largest on the east coast), and 2,209 free parking spaces. For more inf ormation call (757) 385-2000. W ant your business meetings, corporate events, conventions, and other types of group gatherings to garner you lots of praise and appreciation from attendees and board members? You might give some thought to planning your next event at a waterfront location. Most meetings just seem better when you meet near a beach or some other large body of water. Not only will the sounds of the tranquil waters lapping the shore set a calming tone for your gathering, but when the workday is done, or even before it starts, can you think of a better place to relax, go for an early morning jog, or enjoy a picturesque sunset? Here are a selection of top waterfront meeting destinations with views sure to astonish, and to foster team spirit, creativity and innovation. MANCHESTER GRAND HYATT – SAN DIEGO, CA Originally built and utilized as a private residence, Bayview, the tower's most unique event space located on the 32nd floor of the Seaport Tower, features an expansive balcony boasting panoram- ic views of the San Diego Bay, Coronado Island, Point Loma and the city skyline. Bayview is able to accommodate groups of up to 150 for a reception and 90 people for dinner – ideal for intimate weddings, receptions, board meetings and social func tions. The 32nd floor allows groups the added benefit of exclusivity by grant- ing hosts the ability to contain meetings and events to their own private floor. The upgraded décor, custom furnishings, and ele- gant fixtures throughout the floor create a modern and luxurious ambiance inspired by the California coast. For more information call (800) 233-1234. BY BUCK SAMUELS San Diego skyline at sunset Photo Credit: Wasin Pummarin