Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/722202
B M & T ••• May/June 2016 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 18 T he goal of today's convention centers is to provide the same comforting, hospitable yet professional attention that is offered in the hotel setting. Centers are achieving this by undergoing drastic upgrades and renovations such as larger and more stylish looking facilities, enhanced food and beverage services, updated cutting-edge technology for meetings and conferences as well as the addi- tion of in-house meeting planners to help through the booking process, to name a few. In addition, convention centers are becoming more and more environmentally friendly, resulting in a larger number of green cer- tified facilities. With all the renovations and upgrades many of the con- vention centers across the country can match top-of-the-line hotels when it comes to fulfilling your group event needs. Choosing the right convention center for your meeting or conference is no simple task. It not only requires that you select a facility that is easily accessible and within close proximity to nearby hotels and resorts, but one that also can accommodate the needs of your delegates with top- of-the-line meeting space, amenities, service and support. Here are a few venue possibilities for planners to consider when organizing their next small or mega event. C O N V E N T I O N C E N T E R R O U N D U P B I R M I N G H A M / J E F F E R S O N C O N V E N T I O N C O M P L E X In the heart of thriving, fun-filled Birmingham is the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. Here you will find everything you need for whatever your event requires: an array of top-notch facilities, 1,024 adjoining guest rooms, a helpful event staff and a host of specialized services. An impres- sive 220,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space is just the beginning. One of the most compelling features of the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex is that it has all the right components in one complex. The centrally located, modern facility also includes 100,000 sq. ft. in 90 meet- ing rooms, and The Medical Forum, a conference facility unlike any other in the country that's equipped with state-of-the-art communications technology. The adjoining Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, with 1,024 modern guest rooms, in-house catering service as well as on-site covered and valet parking, complete the package. The Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex is conveniently located 10 minutes from the Birmingham International Airport and at the apex of several major interstates, making it super-accessible by car, bus or plane. STATS Total Exhibit Space: 222,000 sq. ft. Largest Ballroom: 15,522 sq. ft. Number of Meeting Rooms: 90 Telephone: (205) THE-BJCC Website: www.bjcc.org C O B O C E N T E R Owned by the Detroit Regional Convention and Facility Authority and operated by SMG, the 2.4 million-sq. ft. complex, located on the bank of the Detroit River, is the centerpiece of downtown Detroit's Civic Center. Cobo Center offers convenience, comfort, service reliability and fine food. Overlooking the Detroit River and Detroit's international neighbor, Windsor BY SOLOMON J. HERBERT