Press Releases - ValleyVisitor.com

GSCVB Annual Meeting Features Samuel Adams Brewer Jim Koch

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:08:00 -0500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Annual Meeting Features Samuel Adams Brewer Jim Koch

HOLYOKE, MA -- (11/16/11) – Tourism professionals from the Pioneer Valley gathered at the 26th Annual Meeting of the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) held Monday night at The Delaney House in Holyoke, MA. More than 130 guests attended the business meeting, which was followed by a special presentation by Jim Koch, brewer of Samuel Adams beers and founder of the Boston Beer Company.

The Bureau recapped its efforts in fiscal year 2011 and announced the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors for a three-year term. They include Bill Collins, director of operations at Spoleto Restaurants, David Desmarais, owner of Aladco Linen Co., Paul Gallo, VP of marketing & procurement of Performance Foodservice, Alexandra Kennedy, executive director of the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art, and Joan Stoia, owner of Centennial House B&B.

Michael Hurwitz of Uno’s Chicago Grill was nominated to serve a two-year term as vice chair. Others remaining on the board as officers with terms expiring in 2012 include Peter Rosskothen, owner of The Log Cabin/Delaney House to serve as chairman, John Hesslein, station manager of CBS-3 Springfield to serve as treasurer, John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame to serve as vice-chair, Robert Schwarz, executive vice president, public relations of Peter Pan Bus Lines to serve as secretary and Robert Gilbert, president and treasurer of Dowd Insurance to serve as compliance officer.

Members of the Board of Directors who have been nominated to serve an additional three-year term include Kathy Anderson, director of the office of Planning & Development for Holyoke, MA, Anthony Frasco, director of sales and marketing at Williams Distributing, Joanne Gadoury, director of conference management & employee services at MassMutual Financial Group, Bill Hess, general manager of Springfield Marriott Hotel, Matt Hollander, general manager of MassMutual Center, Michael Jonnes, executive director of the Springfield Symphony, Bruce Lessels, president of Zoar Outdoor, Tony Maroulis, executive director of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, Shardool Parmar, president of the Pioneer Valley Hotel Group, Remo Pizzichemi, general manager of Hampton Inn West Springfield and Rod Warnick, professor and academic advisor at Tourism Management Department/UMass.

The following individuals, whose terms will expire in 2012, will remain on the GSCVB Board of Directors: Holly Smith-Bove, president of the Springfield Museums, Greg Chiecko, sales director of Eastern States Exposition, Barry Crosby, president and CEO of Freedom Credit Union, Carolyn Edwards, assistant general manager of Premium Outlets in Lee, Jason Freeman, director of safety and security of Six Flags New England, Harlan Kent, president and chief operating officer of Yankee Candle Company, Bruce Nable, CEO and president of SER Expo, Christina Pappas, president of Open the Door Communications, Inc., Ralph Santaniello, owner of The Federal, William Rogalski, general manager of Holyoke Mall and Dan Walsh, vice president of Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization that was incorporated in 1985 and is dedicated to promoting Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

Board of Directors Listing

* Denotes a new officer or Board member
** Denotes officer or Board member elected to new term

2011 - 2012 Officers

Chairman of the Board
**Vice Chairman
Vice Chairman
Treasurer
Secretary

Peter Rosskothen, The Log Cabin/Delaney House
Michael Hurwitz, American Restaurant Corp.
John Doleva, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
John Hesslein, CBS-3 Springfield
Robert Schwarz, Peter Pan Bus Lines

2011 - 2012 Board of Directors

**Kathy Anderson, City of Holyoke
Holly Smith-Bove, Springfield Museums
Greg Chiecko, Eastern States Exposition
*Bill Collins, Spoleto Restaurants
Barry Crosby, Freedom Credit Union
*David Desmarais, Aladco Linen Co.
Carolyn Edwards, Premium Outlets in Lee
**Anthony Frasco, Williams Distributing
Jason Freeman, Six Flags New England
**Joanne Gadoury, MassMutual Financial Group
*Paul Gallo, Performance Foodservice
Robert Gilbert, Dowd Insurance
**Bill Hess, Springfield Marriott Hotel
**Matt Hollander, MassMutual Center
**Michael Jonnes, Springfield Symphony Orchestra
*Alexandra Kennedy, Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
Harlan Kent, Yankee Candle Company
**Bruce Lessels, Zoar Outdoor
**Tony Maroulis, Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce
Bruce Nable, SER Expo
Christina Pappas, Open the Door Communications, Inc.
**Shardool Parmar, Pioneer Valley Hotel Group
**Remo Pizzichemi, Hampton Inn West Springfield
William Rogalski, Holyoke Mall
Ralph Santaniello, The Federal
*Joan Stoia, Centennial House B & B
Dan Walsh, Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel
**Rod Warnick, Tourism Management Department/UMass

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GSCVB Accepting Nominations For 2012 Howdy Awards

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Accepting Nominations For 2012 Howdy Awards

Springfield, MA-- (10/25/11)—The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) is accepting nominations for the 2012 Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence, according to Howdy Awards Chairman Michael E. Hurwitz, owner of Uno Chicago Grill in Springfield and Holyoke.

“This is the seventeenth annual Howdy Awards program, and we want it to be bigger than ever,” said Hurwitz. “We want to hear about the many frontline hospitality industry superstars in the Pioneer Valley, and the only way we can honor these people is if we receive nominations from the public. That’s how the whole process begins. So when you’re out and about in the coming holiday season, say you’re shopping or dining out…and you are wowed by a terrific waitress or sales clerk, jump online and nominate them! Anyone can nominate anyone else for a Howdy…a loyal customer, a co-worker, or especially someone who just experienced exceptional service.”

Nominations can be submitted online by visiting www.valleyvisitor.com and clicking on the Howdy logo on the home page. There are also paper ballots available at several leading area restaurants, hotels and attractions, or they can be picked up at the GSCVB, which is located at 1441 Main Street in Springfield.

Each year the Bureau collects nominations for the awards, which honor frontline people in the service industries who work at hotels/motels/inns, restaurants, tourist attractions, retail locations, transportation and more. Finalists are selected by committee and three hospitality industry professionals from outside the Pioneer Valley serve as judges and select the winners, whose names will be announced at the 2012 Howdy Awards Gala Dinner on May 15 at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke.

The deadline to submit nominations for the 2012 Howdy Awards is February 1, 2012. Submissions received after that date are automatically entered into the running for the following year.

The Howdy Awards program not only recognizes accomplishments, professionalism and service in the local hospitality industry; it also provides career-enhancing credentials for winning recipients and additional marketing exposure for the businesses and services whose employees excel. Each winner will also receive an engraved Howdy Award for Hospitality Excellence, a lapel pin and a gift bag as well as a framed certificate recognizing their accomplishment.

Sponsors for the 2012 Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence include Aladco Linen Services, Baystate Health, CBS-3 Springfield, Eastern States Exposition, Freedom Credit Union, Global Spectrum, The Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House/The Delaney House, MassLive.com, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, The Republican, WRNX-FM and Yankee Candle Company.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information or to nominate someone.

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GSCVB To Hold Annual Meeting Featuring Guest Speaker Jim Koch of The Boston Beer Company

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 05:08:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB To Hold Annual Meeting Featuring Guest Speaker Jim Koch of The Boston Beer Company

SPRINGFIELD, MA -- (10/11/11) - The Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) will hold its annual meeting on Monday, November 14 at 4:00 p.m. at The Delaney House in Holyoke. Immediately following the meeting, which will recap the Bureau's efforts in fiscal year 2011 and will officially announce the appointment of members of the Board of Directors, the Bureau will introduce Guest Speaker Jim Koch, founder and brewer of Samuel Adams® beers.

At 5:00 p.m., Koch will participate in a question and answer session that is expected to include remarks about the founding of the Boston Beer Company, and how he left a successful career as a consultant to launch what is the leading craft beer in America today. He will also discuss his "Samuel Adams Brewing the American Dream" program, which was created to provide lower income small business owners in food, beverage and hospitality with the essential ingredients to become financially independent and see their American business dreams come true. Immediately following Koch's remarks, a reception featuring several of Samuel Adams beers will be held for attendees.

Koch's presentation and the reception are open to the public for a $50 admission fee, and GSCVB members for a $40 admission fee, which must be reserved before November 7 by contacting Lee Chambers of the GSCVB at (413) 755-1345 or lee@valleyvisitor.com. Reservations are non-refundable.

"The Bureau, its members and board of directors are very pleased to have Jim Koch join us for our annual meeting as guest speaker," said GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "'Brewing the American Dream' is a terrific program that could very well help some Pioneer Valley hospitality businesses that need support. I hope we'll see some of them come to this event to inquire about the program and hear an inspirational story about how one man's vision led to a business empire."

Sponsors of the GSCVB's 2011 Annual Meeting include Yankee Candle Flagship, Aladco Linen Services, Freedom Credit Union, Verizon Wireless and CBS-3 Springfield.

The Boston Beer Company began in 1984 with a generations-old family recipe that Founder and Brewer Jim Koch uncovered in his father's attic. After bringing the recipe to life in his kitchen, Jim brought it to bars in Boston with the belief that drinkers would appreciate a complex, full-flavored beer, brewed fresh in America. That beer was Samuel Adams Boston Lager®, and it helped catalyze what became known as the American craft beer revolution.

Today, the Company brews more than 30 styles of beer. The Company uses the traditional four vessel brewing process and often takes extra steps like dry-hopping, barrel-aging and a secondary fermentation known as krausening. It passionately pursues the development of new styles and the perfection of its classic beers by constantly searching for the world's finest ingredients. While resurrecting traditional brewing methods, the Company has earned a reputation as a pioneer in another revolution, the "extreme beer" movement, where it seeks to challenge drinkers' perceptions of what beer can be. The Boston Beer Company strives to elevate the image of American craft beer by entering festivals and competitions the world over, and in the past five years it has won more awards in international beer competitions than any other brewery in the world. The Company remains independent, and brewing quality beer remains its single focus. While Samuel Adams is the country's largest-selling craft beer, it accounts for just under one percent of the U.S. beer market. For more information, please visit www.samueladams.com.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization that was incorporated in 1985 and is dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

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GSCVB Nominee Bright Nights Designated Top Destination By American Bus Association

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:20:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Nominee Bright Nights Designated Top Destination
By American Bus Association

Springfield, MA-- (September 15, 2010)- Bright Nights at Forest Park in Springfield, Massachusetts has been named one of the 2012 Top 100 Events in North America by the American Bus Association (ABA), which also designated The Big E in West Springfield, Massachusetts as an Internationally Known Annual Event (IKE). The Top 100 is an annual compendium of the best events in the United States and Canada for group travel. Winners are chosen from hundreds of celebrations, festivals, fairs, commemorative events and more, and are cited for offering excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world, according to ABA. The event's broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches, its skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other relevant criteria were also considered. The Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) submitted the nomination to the selection committee on behalf of Bright Nights.

Now in its 30th year, the Top 100 Events receive worldwide attention via the media--television, radio, and print--such as USA Today and CNN. ABA distributes some 10,000 copies of the Top 100 Events in North America magazine, featuring the winners, to all of its members and to thousands of travelers worldwide. For a full list of the 2012 Top 100 Events, visit www.buses.org/.

"The Spirit of Springfield is honored to be in such good company," said Spirit of Springfield President Judith A. Matt. "In addition to The Big E, the ABA's 2012 Top 100 is the 'who's who' in travel destinations."

The IKE list is an adjunct to ABA's annual Top 100 Events list and identifies landmark events that offer excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world. The Big E received this long-term honor in 2009 when ABA President Peter J. Pantuso visited the Fairgrounds for the announcement. That same year, the GSCVB hosted the ABA Top 100 judging event.

Bright Nights at Forest Park will celebrate its 17th season in 2011 and runs November 23, 2011 through January 1, 2012. The holiday lighting extravaganza is set along a three mile route through Springfield's Forest Park, and features popular displays including Seuss Land (which honors Springfield native Dr. Seuss), Jurassic World and Toy Land, among others. More than 600,000 lights are used to create its exhibits. Other highlights of Bright Nights include Dinner with Dickens, where diners are greeted by carolers dressed in Victorian garb and treated to a buffet dinner and Charles Dickens' tales of Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim, and Supper with Santa, which allows guests to dine with Saint Nick.

The Big E, which features more than 1,000 vendors and exhibitors on the fairgrounds, is held annually for 17 days at Eastern States Exposition. This year's fair is set to run from September 16 - October 2. Visitors to The Big E enjoy top-name entertainment, Big E Cream Puffs, the daily Mardi Gras Parade, special exhibits, The Big E Super Circus, Horse Shows, the Avenue of States, Storrowton Village Museum, agricultural events and competitions in Mallary Complex, midway rides, shopping and foods from around the world.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

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MAAC Marketing Directors Meeting

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 09:56:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Whitney Swab, Director of New Media
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
Tel: (732) 738-5455, ext. 203

Edison, N.J. - "The Road to MAAC-achusetts" began on August 3 with the MAAC hosting a meeting with marketing representatives from each MAAC school at Siena College. The in-person meeting represented an expanded commitment by the MAAC, its member institutions and its partner arena, the MassMutual Center to increase brand awareness and marketing collateral around the new neutral site venue in Springfield, Mass. that will host the Men's and Women's Basketball Championships from 2012-14.

The directors heard presentations from Rich Oriolo, a principal with Stafford Sports, the MAAC's arena consultant on the process that led to the site selection by the MAAC Council of Presidents at their December 2009 meeting. He also detailed the league's partnership with the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the hosting agreement and the availability of the Hall for many of the league's events including its Preseason Awards Show on October 25 at 10 a.m.

Presenting at the meeting were Marissa Skibbe, Joseph Flanagan and Nathaniel Harris from the MassMutual Center. Skibbe outlined a number of marketing initiatives for the championships including: league wide advertising through ad space on institutions' athletics pages and basketball media guides, in-game promotions where fans can win tickets to the basketball championships through an on-court contest at regular season games, and grassroots marketing efforts in the MAAC member communities through an on-campus student marketing team.

One interesting new marketing element for the championship will be the QR Code Challenge on each campus. A QR code, or quick response code, is a specific matrix barcode with information encoded that can be read through QR readers, smartphones and computers with a webcam. With the QR Code Challenge, students will compete to get as many scans from their unique QR code placed on the back of a t-shirt. The QR code will activate a video created by each school promoting the tournament. The winning school will be eligible for a prize package.

"There are great synergies developing between the Championship marketing team and the MAAC," says Marissa Skibbe, Global Spectrum's Director of Marketing at the MassMutual Center. "Together we have created an extensive and fun plan that is moving like a well oiled machine. We can't wait to see the creative elements come to fruition."

The group also viewed a presentation by Ticketmaster representative, Casey Macdonald, who explained how the arena's Ticketmaster system can provide marketing elements for the member schools to utilize, including email lists, the ability to brand on e-tickets purchased by consumers, and the ability to tie in sales of programs, merchandise and hotels. The system also has the capability to provide the schools with analytical data about ticket purchasers. Ticketmaster also has social media elements that fans are able to use to follow the MAAC and its schools, see who else is attending the same event they are interested in, and to seek ticket purchasing options.

Richard Ensor, MAAC Commissioner, also reviewed the MAAC's new webcasting alliance between six of the member schools and the conference office that will allow fans to view the majority of MAAC basketball contests through the league's webhost, NeuLion. Details on this program and pricing will be announced shortly. Ensor noted, "It's the league's goal to provide easy and affordable access to our fans for as many of its men's and women's basketball contests as it can. The members are excited about the new webcast access portal and our continuing relationship with ESPN that covers traditional broadcast options."

All-sessions tickets for the MAAC Men's and Women's Basketball Championships at the MassMutual Center will go on sale to the general public on October 25 in conjunction with the MAAC's Preseason Awards Show at the Basketball Hall of Fame.

The hashtags #MAACHoops and #MAACachusetts on Twitter will be used when discussing the upcoming 2011-12 MAAC Men's and Women's Basketball season and championships.

About the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
The MAAC, headquartered in Edison, N.J., consists of 10 member institutions: Canisius College, Fairfield University, Iona College, Loyola University Maryland, Manhattan College, Marist College, Niagara University, Rider University, Saint Peter's College and Siena College. Pattison Sports Group is the league's marketing consultant and has the exclusive sales rights to the MAAC. For more on the conference please visit, www.maacsports.com.

-MAAC-

GSCVB Names 2011 HOWDY Award Recipients

Wed, 11 May 2011 12:20:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Names 2011 HOWDY Award Recipients

Springfield, MA-- (May 11, 2010)- The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) honored 9 individuals (see list at end of release) from throughout the Pioneer Valley on Tuesday evening, May 10, during the 16^th annual Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence. The gala dinner, held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, attracted more than 325 tourism industry professionals.

The awards, produced by the GSCVB, recognize front-line employees in the hospitality industry who go above and beyond in the performance of their duties and provide outstanding service to their guests and customers. By doing so, these hospitality professionals contribute to the economic vitality of the businesses they serve and the region overall.

The winners were chosen from among 47 finalists, who were honored at a reception in April. The finalists were selected by the Howdy Awards Committee from more than 800 nominations among eight categories. The Committee also selected Melanie Smith, national tour and travel representative, of Six Flags New England to receive the Spotlight Award, which recognizes individuals or organizations for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the region's hospitality industry.

"We honor members of one of the most important groups of people in the Pioneer Valley hospitality industry...the frontline employees," said GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "These people are usually the hardest working employees at any organization, and they're the first face most guests see. They offer the friendliest greetings, they fix problems, they go above and beyond to be helpful, and most importantly, they have the power to create such a great visitor experience that those guests will return, which enhances the Pioneer Valley economy."

Upon bestowing the Spotlight Award on Smith, GSCVB Chairman Peter Rosskothen stated, "Melanie Smith is an outstanding hospitality professional who has worked at some top area attractions and understood, from the beginning, the importance of cultivating the group tour industry on behalf of the Pioneer Valley. She is an invaluable resource of great marketing ideas and outreach efforts to promote the region, and she does all this with her usual expertise, grace and finesse."

The Howdy Awards program consists of a nomination process for which any hospitality service provider in the region is eligible - regardless of whether their organization is a GSCVB member. A group of respected industry leaders selected from outside the area judge the finalists and select the winners in each category. The judges for this year's event were Mark Dorr, Communications Manager for the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association, Steve Jacques, Director of Customer Services at the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, Highway Division and Katrina White, Travel Trade Manager for the Rhode Island Tourism Division.

Each hospitality award winner received the decorative etched glass Hospitality Excellence Award, a framed certificate of achievement, a Howdy Winner lapel pin, and a gift bag filled with gift certificates and other items from the region's top tourism establishments.

Sponsors for the 2011 Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence are Baystate Health, CBS-3 Springfield, Eastern States Exposition, Global Spectrum, The Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House/The Delaney House, MassLive.com, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, The Republican, WRNX-FM and Yankee Candle Company.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private, non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

GREATER SPRINGFIELD CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

2011 HOWDY AWARDS FOR HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE

In the category of Accommodations:
Tony Rogers - Desk clerk
Comfort Inn & Suites - Ludlow
Residence unknown

In the category of Attractions:
Bob Aubrey - Show staff member
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame - Springfield
Resident of West Springfield

In the category of Beverage:
Mary Mercier - Bartender
The Yardhouse - South Hadley
Residence unknown

In the category of Food:
Amanda Malone - Event coordinator
Chandler's Restaurant at Yankee Candle Flagship - South Deerfield
Residence unknown

In the category of Public Service:
Elise Wright - Secretary
Belchertown United Church of Christ
Resident of Belchertown

In the category of Retail
Khia Eagan - Assistant manager
7-Eleven Store - Sunderland
Residence unknown

In the category of Transportation
Jason Guzman - Valet
Valet Park of America - Springfield
Resident of Chicopee

In the category of Unseen Hero:
Judy Brinn - Charter coordinator
Peter Pan Bus Lines - Springfield
Resident of Agawam

Spotlight Winner:
Melanie Smith - National Tour and Travel Representative
Six Flags New England
Resident of Greenfield

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GSCVB Unveils Print and Online Editions of 2011-2012 Pioneer Valley Tourism Guide

Wed, 04 May 2011 02:05:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Unveils Print and Online Editions of
2011-2012 Pioneer Valley Tourism Guide

Springfield, MA--(5/4/11)-The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) has unveiled both print and online editions of the 2011-2012 Guide to Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley, which is now available at www.valleyvisitor.com. Print editions are free of charge to potential visitors to the region, as well as Pioneer Valley residents.

The Guide, a four-color, 90 page publication, contains information about some of the region's top attractions, accommodations and restaurants, all of which are GSCVB members. Its editorial content has been expanded to include profiles of Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties and both online and mobile versions are available.

Among other features is a listing of 2011 commencement dates at area colleges and universities, a map of the Pioneer Valley area, plus downtown maps of Holyoke, Amherst, Northampton and Springfield.

To order a Guide, phone (413) 787-1548 or visit www.valleyvisitor.com and click on "View the Visitors Guide." There will then be an option to either view the guide online or fill in name and address information to have one sent though the mail. Online viewers will note that the many different sections, including attractions, maps, accommodations, outdoor activities, calendar of events and shopping, are color-coded for easy navigation.

"The Guide has become the premier 'go-to' publication for the Bureau's tourism marketing efforts," stated GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "We've published 125,000 copies, and they will make their way - literally - around the globe. Each week we receive requests for tourism information from people in different counties. Our research confirms that 56% of potential visitors who receive a Guide visit the Pioneer Valley, and 19% of those who were undecided came here after we put this book in their hands. Guides are also issued to conventioneers, people relocating to the region, college students who are new to the Valley and countless others. This year we're especially excited about the online component we'll be rolling out. Our book will literally be 'on the go.'"

The Guide, which was designed by Design & Advertising Associates of Springfield, MA and printed by Universal Press in Rockland, MA.

The Guide to Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley is published annually by the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau and is also distributed to member hotels, attractions and restaurants, key highway information centers, the Visitor Information Center at 1441 Main Street in Springfield, and in response to visitor inquiries made via the Bureau's visitor information number (800-723-1548 or 413-755-1351), web site (www.valleyvisitor.com) and email address (info@valleyvisitor.com). Visitors to popular attractions in the Berkshires and Boston during the height of the busy summer tourist season - June through August -- will also have easy access to The Guide in brochure racks at these sites, as well as several key locations in Canada.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, please visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

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GSCVB Announces 16th Annual Howdy Awards Finalists

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:10:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Announces 16th Annual Hospitality Awards Finalists

Springfield, MA-- (4/13/11)-The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) named forty-seven individuals from throughout the Pioneer Valley as finalists for the 2011 Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence. The finalists were honored at a reception last night at The Delaney House in Holyoke, MA. The awards program, now in its 16^th year, was created by the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) to recognize front-line employees in the hospitality industry for providing outstanding service to their guests and customers.

The finalists, who represent a variety of businesses, organizations and activities from throughout Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties, now move up to the next level of competition -- judging by a group of recognized industry professionals from outside the region. The winners will then be announced and honored at a gala dinner and awards presentation on Tuesday, May 10 at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, MA. On that night, a winner will be named in each of eight categories -- Accommodations, Attractions, Beverage, Food, Public Service, Retail/Business, Transportation and Unseen Hero. (See the attached list for all finalists.) A Spotlight Award, which recognizes individuals or organizations that have made a significant contribution to the tourism industry in the Pioneer Valley, will also be presented that evening.

The Howdy Awards program not only recognizes accomplishments, professionalism and service in the local hospitality industry; it also provides career-enhancing credentials for winning recipients and additional marketing exposure for the businesses and services whose employees excel.

Sponsors for the 2011 Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence include the Baystate Health, CBS-3 Springfield, Eastern States Exposition, Global Spectrum, The Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House/The Delaney House, MassLive.com, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, The Republican, WRNX-FM and Yankee Candle Company. Each winner will receive an engraved Howdy Award for Hospitality Excellence, a lapel pin and a gift bag as well as a framed certificate recognizing their accomplishment.

Tickets to the Gala Dinner in May are $65.00 per person, and $625 for a table of ten. For ticket information or more information regarding the Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence, call Lee Chambers at the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau at (413) 755-1345.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

2011 Howdy Award Finalists

November a Busy Month for Pioneer Valley Conventions, Meetings and Events

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 08:31:00 -0500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

NOVEMBER A BUSY MONTH FOR PIONEER VALLEY CONVENTIONS, MEETINGS AND EVENTS

SPRINGFIELD, MA -- (11/10/10) - According to the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (GSCVB), several groups are en route to the Pioneer Valley during the month of November 2010, utilizing a number of area venues and hotels for their meetings and events. A round-up of these groups is as follows, with contact names provided if there is interest in editorial coverage (contact information for media use only, not for publication):

Equine Affaire - One of North America's premiere equine expositions and equestrian gatherings.
Dates: November 12-14
Venue(s): Eastern States Exposition
Anticipated Attendance: 10,000
Hotel Usage: Group utilizes 28 hotels throughout the Pioneer Valley
Contact person: Karen Brennan, Equine Affaire (740) 248-6144

Market America - Their northeast regional convention features more than a dozen top speakers
Dates: November 12-14
Venue(s): MassMutual Center
Anticipated Attendance: 7,000
Hotel Usage: Region-wide use of hotels
Contact person: Sara Vinson, Market America (917) 753-2955

Tip-Off Classic - 12 top Division I, II and III basketball teams face off for the glory.
Dates: November 19-21
Venue(s): MassMutual Center
Anticipated Attendance: 10,000
Hotel Usage: Region-wide use of hotels
Contact person: Greg Porcino, Naismsith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame (413) 231-5522

Holy Name IceBreaker Hockey Tournament - Youth hockey premier tournament.
Dates: November 19-21
Venue(s): Olympia Ice Center in West Springfield,
plus other Pioneer Valley ice rinks
Hotel Usage: Room blocks reserved in 17 Pioneer Valley hotels
Contact person: Paul Jerome, local coordinator (413) 306-9348

In addition to the above events, several others took place in the Pioneer Valley earlier this month including the New England Museum Association meeting (November 3-5), New England Pop Warner (November 6-7), The Fiber Festival (November 6), and the Marine Corp Ball (November 6). Later this month the Old Deerfield Christmas Sampler Craft Fair will be held at Eastern States Exposition (November 19-21), which will also be the site for the Holyoke Kennel Club Dog Show (November 25), the Windham County Kennel Club Dog Show (November 26), the Leap Agility Club AKC Agility Trial (November 26-27) and the Springfield Kennel Club Dog Show (November 28).

"In this economy, it's especially rewarding to see several groups of distinction like Equine Affaire, Market America and others return to the Pioneer Valley for their meetings and events," said GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "The Bureau has been busy working with a number of businesses, organizations and volunteers to ensure the optimum visitor experience for all, especially those who will be seeing the Valley for the first time. We have created welcome signage and gift bags, and issued hospitality alerts in preparation for these arrivals, and we'll provide manned hospitality information tables for the Equine Affaire and Market America events."

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

# # #

GSCVB Holds Annual Meeting & 25th Anniversary Celebration

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 08:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB HOLDS ANNUAL MEETING & 25^TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

SPRINGFIELD, MA -- (10/15/10) - Tourism professionals from the Pioneer Valley gathered at the 25^th Annual Meeting of the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) held last night at the Carriage House on the grounds of Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, MA. More than 100 guests attended the business meeting, which was followed by a cocktail reception and silent auction.

The Bureau recapped its efforts in fiscal year 2010 and announced the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors. They include Barry Crosby, president of Freedom Credit Union, Jason Freeman, park president of Six Flags New England and Ralph Santaniello, co-owner of The Federal.

Officers who have been nominated to serve a two-year term include Peter Rosskothen, owner of The Log Cabin/Delaney House to serve as chairman, John Hesslein, station manager of CBS-3 Springfield to serve as treasurer, John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame to serve as vice-chair, Robert Schwarz, executive vice president, public relations of Peter Pan Bus Lines to serve as secretary and Robert Gilbert, president and treasurer of Dowd Insurance to serve as compliance officer. Remaining as vice-chair with a term expiring in 2011 is Michael Hurwitz.

Members of the Board of Directors who have been nominated to serve an additional two-year term include Greg Chiecko, sales director of Eastern States Exposition, Carolyn Edwards, assistant general manager of Premium Outlets in Lee, Harlan Kent, president and chief operating officer of Yankee Candle Company, Bruce Nable, CEO and president of SER Expo, Christina Pappas, president of Open the Door Communications, Inc., William Rogalski, general manager of Holyoke Mall and Dan Walsh, vice president of Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel.

The following individuals, whose terms will expire in 2011, will remain on the GSCVB Board of Directors: Kathy Anderson, city planning director of City of Holyoke, Anthony Frasco, director of sales and marketing at Williams Distributing, Joanne Gadoury, director of conference management & employee services at MassMutual Financial Group, Bill Hess, general manager of Springfield Marriott Hotel, Matt Hollander, general manager of MassMutual Center, Michael Jonnes, executive director of the Springfield Symphony, Bruce Lessels, president of Zoar Outdoor, Tony Maroulis, executive director of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, Shardool Parmar, president of the Pioneer Valley Hotel Group, Remo Pizzichemi, general manager of Hampton Inn West Springfield, Holly Smith-Bove, president of the Springfield Museums, and Rod Warnick, professor and academic advisor at Tourism Management Department/UMass.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization that was incorporated in 1985 and is dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

Board of Directors Listing
* Denotes a new officer or Board member
** Denotes officer or Board member elected to new term

2010 - 2011 Officers
*Chairman of the Board            Peter Rosskothen, The Log Cabin/Delaney House
Vice Chairman                         Michael Hurwitz, American Restaurant Corp.
**Vice Chairman                      John Doleva, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
**Treasurer                             John Hesslein, CBS-3 Springfield
**Secretary                             Robert Schwarz, Peter Pan Bus Lines

2010 - 2011 Board of Directors
Kathy Anderson, City of Holyoke
**Greg Chiecko, Eastern States Exposition
*Barry Crosby, Freedom Credit Union
**Carolyn Edwards, Premium Outlets in Lee
Anthony Frasco, Williams Distributing
*Jason Freeman, Six Flags New England
Joanne Gadoury, MassMutual Financial Group
**Robert Gilbert, Dowd Insurance
Bill Hess, Springfield Marriott Hotel
Matt Hollander, MassMutual Center
Michael Jonnes, Springfield Symphony Orchestra
**Harlan Kent, Yankee Candle Company
Bruce Lessels, Zoar Outdoor
Tony Maroulis, Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce
**Bruce Nable, SER Expo
**Christina Pappas, Open the Door Communications, Inc.
Shardool Parmar, Pioneer Valley Hotel Group
Remo Pizzichemi, Hampton Inn West Springfield
**William Rogalski, Holyoke Mall
*Ralph Santaniello, The Federal
Holly Smith-Bove, Springfield Museums
**Dan Walsh, Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel
Rod Warnick, Tourism Management Department/UMass

# # #

American Bus Association Names Bright Nights at Forest Park One of North America's 100 Best Events For 2011

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 10:26:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

AMERICAN BUS ASSOCIATION NAMES BRIGHT NIGHTS AT FOREST PARK ONE OF NORTH AMERICA'S 100 BEST EVENTS FOR 2011

Springfield, MA (9/16/10) -- The American Bus Association (ABA) announced recently that Bright Nights at Forest Park has been designated as one of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2011 by an expert tourism industry selection committee. Inclusion in the Top 100 list, published as a supplement to the September/October issue of Destinations magazine, indicates that Bright Nights offers excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world, according to ABA.

With the release of the American Bus Association's 2011 Top 100 Events in North America, ABA celebrates 29 years of the program. What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries has grown to become one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.

"The attractiveness of Bright Nights as a don't-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for the Pioneer Valley," said Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, ABA's president and CEO. "The real news here is that Bright Nights has been recognized as a potential magnet for tourism dollars, at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy. The honor gives the Valley an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners."

"Glancing through the list of other winners, it is amazing to see the company we are in," said Spirit of Springfield President, Judith A. Matt. "And, it is right here in Springfield."

According to studies completed by researchers at The George Washington University and Dunham and Associates, one overnight visit by a motorcoach group can leave from $5,000 (US dollars) to more than $13,000 (US dollars) in a local destination's economy. Those dollars are spent on lodging, meals, admissions, fees, shopping, souvenirs, services and local taxes.

"Motorcoach groups spend more and stay longer," Pantuso said. "That's why Bright Nights is truly a local economic asset. There is no better way to jump-start tourism than to attract motorcoach groups to a great event and convince them to extend their stay."

ABA's 2011 Top 100 Events Selection Committee selected Bright Nights from among a record number of more than 650 event nominations submitted by ABA members. Judges considered the event's broad appeal, its accessibility to motorcoaches and skill at handling large groups, and a variety of other relevant criteria. The Selection Committee chose the Pioneer Valley as its meeting site when it convened this past June to prepare the list of 2011 Top 100 Events. While here, the group toured key tourism attractions in the region, including Yankee Candle Flagship, Springfield Museums, Springfield Armory National Historic Site, Eastern States Exposition fairgrounds, Six Flags New England, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Historic Deerfield, Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory and Gardens and the Lady Bea at Brunelle's Marina.

Last year the ABA also designated The Big E, which had been a longtime fixture on the Top 100 Events List, as an Internationally Known Event (IKE), alongside events like the Tournament of Roses and the Indianapolis 500. This honor is reserved for an elite group of perennial favorites that have timeless popularity and international appeal.

The Top 100 Events list is available online at www.buses.org/top100.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, please visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

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GSCVB Presents Double Decker Dine Event

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 08:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB PRESENTS DOUBLE DECKER DINE EVENT

Springfield, MA (8/10/10) -- The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) presents Double Decker Dine 2010, an exciting and unique way to tour - and sample treats from - some of the Pioneer Valley's most prestigious restaurants. The event will take place August 25 beginning at 5pm.

Guests will gather at Samuel's Sports Bar & J. Quincy's at the Springfield Riverfront, where they will enjoy a complimentary beer and appetizers, then depart on a Peter Pan Double Decker bus at 5:45pm. The bus will take them to 350 Grill, Café Lebanon, Lattitude and The Federal where food tastings will be delivered to guests as they relax with friends on board the bus. Along the way, Williams Distributing will conduct a series of beer tastings. The journey concludes at Onyx, where guests will enjoy appetizers and a cash bar.

"We're really excited to launch this new event," said GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "Double Decker Dine will give people a chance to sample, perhaps for the first time, food from some of the best restaurants in the lower Pioneer Valley. We've put together a terrific value package for the price, so we're seeing groups of friends signing up, and we're looking forward to hosting them, showcasing some of our restaurant members, and having fun at every stop along the way."

A limited number of seats are available. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are being sold online at the GSCVB's web site (www.valleyvisitor.com). No tickets will be sold at the door. The cost to participate is $30 per person and also includes a goodie bag and the complimentary beer at Samuel's Tavern. Guests must be at least 21 years old. Parking is free. Sponsors for Double Decker Dine 2010 are CBS-3 Springfield, Stella Artois and Peter Pan Bus Lines.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, please visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

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GSCVB Unveils 2010-2011 Pioneer Valley Tourism Guide

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 10:22:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB UNVEILS 2010-2011 PIONEER VALLEY TOURISM GUIDE

Springfield, MA--(6/23/10)-The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) has published the 2010-2011 Guide to Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley, which is now available free of charge to potential visitors to the region, as well as Pioneer Valley residents.

The Guide, a four-color, 84 page publication, contains information about some of the region's top attractions, accommodations and restaurants, all of which are GSCVB members. Additional editorial includes new and upcoming attractions (featuring the Springfield Armor, the Museum of Springfield History, "Table for 10: The Art, History and Science of Food," the upcoming week-long Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement festivities and the debut of Peter Pan's remodeled motor coaches) and tips about destinations for different interests. There are feature stories about the farm-to-table "green cuisine" trend in the Pioneer Valley (and which restaurants serve local goods) and gay-friendly attractions and events in the region.

The Guide, which was designed by Design & Advertising Associates of Springfield, MA and printed by Dynagraph in Canton, MA also features useful maps of the downtown areas of Springfield, Amherst, Holyoke and Northampton, as well as a list of 2011 college commencement dates.

"Our annual Guide is the Bureau's premier marketing piece," stated GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "It enjoys a wide circulation beyond the typical distribution sites. We work with member hospitals to provide the Guide to physicians considering a move here. The Guide turns up on college campuses for parents' weekends and commencements. Travel writers use it for reference when writing stories about the Pioneer Valley. It's a very helpful publication for anyone - resident or visitor - who wants to enjoy all that the region has to offer. With all the changes, additions and enhancements in the Valley's tourism industry, it's convenient to have this ultimate 'go-to' source for information."

The Guide to Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley is published annually by the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau and is distributed at member hotels, attractions and restaurants, key highway information centers, the Visitor Information Center at 1441 Main Street in Springfield, and in response to visitor inquiries made via the Bureau's visitor information number (800-723-1548 or 413-755-1351), web site (www.valleyvisitor.com) and email address (info@valleyvisitor.com). Additional distribution will be directed toward Canadian travel trade shows. Visitors to popular attractions in the Berkshires and Boston during the height of the busy summer tourist season - June through August -- will also have easy access to The Guide in brochure racks at these sites. A print run of 125,000 guidebooks will be distributed throughout the year.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, please visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

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American Bus Association Site Selection Committee Arrives in Pioneer Valley for Annual Meeting; Touring Area Attractions

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 10:34:00 -0400

CONTACT: Alicia Szenda, Group Tour Manager
Phone: 508-930-8010/E-mail: alicia@valleyvisitor.com

AMERICAN BUS ASSOCIATION SITE SELECTION COMMITTEE ARRIVES IN PIONEER VALLEY FOR ANNUAL MEETING; TOURING AREA ATTRACTIONS

Springfield, MA (6/3/10) - A committee of nearly 20 tour operators and staff of the American Bus Association (ABA) will hold its annual meeting in Springfield June 6-9, 2010. The ABA Top 100 Site Selection Committee convenes once a year to decide ABA's Top 100 Events in North America.

The group will make their selections from top fairs, festivals, parades, exhibits, theater and other shows that offer broad appeal, accessibility to large groups arriving by motor coach, and other criteria. Pioneer Valley-based attractions that have been listed in the past include Bright Nights at Forest Park and The Big E, which was recently designated an Internationally Known Event by the ABA.

During their stay, group members will also tour several of the Pioneer Valley's leading tourist attractions including Yankee Candle Flagship, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, and others (itinerary at end of release).

The winning bid to lure the Selection Committee to the Pioneer Valley for its annual meeting was submitted by the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB), in conjunction with Peter Pan Bus Lines and the Sheraton Springfield.

The 2011 ABA Top 100 Attractions will be announced around Labor Day. The full 2010 Top 100 list is currently available at http://www.buses.org/files/Top100-10_Layout_1.pdf.

The American Bus Association is the trade organization of the intercity bus industry with more than 1,000 motor coach owner and tour company members in the United States and Canada. Its members operate charter, tour, regular route, airport express, special operations and contract services. Another 2,800 members are travel and tourism organizations and suppliers of bus products and services who work in partnership with the North American motor coach industry.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

American Bus Association Tour Operator Itinerary

Contact: Alicia Szenda 508-930-8010

Monday June 7, 2010- traveling on Peter Pan Executive Coach

1:45pm Lunch at Deerfield Inn & tour of Historic Deerfield

2:45pm Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory

3:45pm Yankee Candle Village

6:00pm Lady Bea boat cruise at Brunelle's Marina

8:00pm Dinner at Delaney House

Tuesday June 8, 2010- traveling on Peter Pan new motor coach

1:45pm Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame

2:45pm Springfield Museums & the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.

4:15pm Springfield Armory National Historic Site

6:45pm Table top expo in the Carriage house on the grounds of the Big E

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GSCVB Names 2010 Howdy Award Recipients

Tue, 18 May 2010 10:11:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB NAMES 2010 HOWDY AWARD RECIPIENTS

Agawam, MA-- (May 18, 2010)- The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) honored 9 individuals (see list at end of release) from throughout the Pioneer Valley Monday evening, May 17, during the 15^th annual Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence. The gala dinner, held at Chez Josef in Agawam, attracted more than 300 tourism industry professionals.

The awards, produced by the GSCVB, recognize front-line employees in the hospitality industry who go above and beyond in the performance of their duties and provide outstanding service to their guests and customers. By doing so, these hospitality professionals contribute to the economic vitality of the businesses they serve and the region overall.

The winners were chosen from among 43 finalists, who were honored at a reception in April. The finalists were selected by the Howdy Awards Committee from nearly 350 nominations among eight categories. The Committee also selected Craig Rydin of the Yankee Candle Company to receive the Spotlight Award, which recognizes individuals or organizations for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the region's hospitality industry.

"We're proud and happy to present the Howdy Awards to honor some of the most important people in the hospitality industry, the frontline workers," said GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "They are usually the first person a visitor encounters, and if they're especially nice and go above and beyond, that visitor is likely to return to that - and other - tourism locations. In that case, everybody wins...the visitor has a great experience, the location captures their business, and the Pioneer Valley economy is enhanced."

Upon bestowing the Spotlight Award on Rydin, GSCVB Chairman Greg Chiecko stated, "In addition to his work with Yankee Candle Company, he recently devoted a great deal of time and energy to the effort to 're-brand' the Pioneer Valley's tourism industry. He was a key part of the team that helped create a new logo, reinforce the marketing message, deliver this message to a wide audience, and put the Pioneer Valley on the map. It was a significant sacrifice of time on his part, which he offered with his usual brilliance and good cheer."

The Howdy Awards program consists of a nomination process for which any hospitality service provider in the region is eligible - regardless of whether their organization is a GSCVB member. A group of respected industry leaders selected from outside the area judge the finalists and select the winners in each category. The judges for this year's event were Patrick Rodigou, Hospitality Training Manager for Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT, Michel Gilbert, Marketing Professor, Johnson & Wales University in Providence, RI and Fred Hunter, Regional Sales Executive, Group Tour Media in Chelmsford, MA.

Each hospitality award winner received the decorative etched glass Hospitality Excellence Award, a framed certificate of achievement, a gift bag and a Howdy Winner lapel pin.

Sponsors for the 2010 Howdy Awards for Hospitality Excellence are Baystate Health, CBS-3 Springfield, Chez Josef, Eastern States Exposition, Global Spectrum, MassLive.com, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority , The Republican, WRNX-FM and Yankee Candle Company.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private, non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

GREATER SPRINGFIELD CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
2010 HOWDY AWARDS FOR HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE

In the category of Accommodations:
Isabel Gil - front office manager
Clarion Hotel & Conference Center - West Springfield
Residence unknown

In the category of Attractions:
Winnie Hall - concession worker
MassMutual Center - Springfield
Residence unknown

In the category of Beverage:
Michelle Hunter - Bartender
Chandler's Restaurant - South Deerfield
Resident of Northfield

In the category of Food:
Tyler Conroy - host
Chandler's Restaurant - South Deerfield
Resident of Conway

In the category of Public Service:
Ermelinda Cruz - financial counselor
Baystate Medical Center - Springfield
Residence unknown

In the category of Retail
Diane J. Shumway - cashier
Atkins Farms Country Market
Resident of Hadley

In the category of Transportation
Robert R. Lawson - dispatcher
Peter Pan Bus Lines - Springfield
Resident of Enfield, CT

In the category of Unseen Hero:
Dennis Goff - maintenance worker
New North Citizen's Council, Inc.
Resident of Springfield

Spotlight Winner:
Craig Rydin - executive chairman
Yankee Candle Company

- 30 -

Two for the Read By Jamie Stringfellow

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 02:38:00 -0400

Two for the Read
Last fall, my mom, Fran, and I took a short trip to celebrate our birthdays - someplace where we could see the sights but also have time to just read and talk about books. Download the entire Two for the Read article.

Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau To Host Division II Pre-Con Pep Rally

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:49:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GREATER SPRINGFIELD CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU TO HOST DIVISION II PRE-CON PEP RALLY

Springfield, MA--(3/16/10) The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB), in conjunction with the Division II Executive Committee, will present a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II Men's Basketball Pre-Con Pep Rally at JT's Sports Pub at 1373 Main Street in Springfield on Tuesday, March 16 at 3 p.m.

Designed to inform downtown hotels, restaurants and clubs about the specifics of the week's activities, the rally will also celebrate the impending arrival of more than 15,000 players, friends, family and fans of the championship teams that will be coming to Springfield to take part in the NCAA Division II Men's Elite Eight Championship March 24-27. Scheduled speakers include Bill Hess (chairman, NCAA Division II Committee), Paul Lambert (V.P. guest experience & programming, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame) and Taryn Siciliano (convention services, Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau).

There will be an overview of the game schedule, downtown events taking place on the Championship weekend and a presentation of hospitality promotional items created for this significant occasion, including a blinking, basketball-shaped button that will enable wearers to receive a discount at participating restaurants. There is no charge to attend the pep rally, but participants must contact the GSCVB at (413) 755-1370 to confirm attendance by March 15.

"We look forward to the pep rally, which has become a bit of a tradition after three years now," said GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "The rally gets everyone excited and generates some hoopla about the Championship. We're especially proud of the collaborative spirit that goes into making the Division II Championship such a successful event, with support from the City of Springfield, the Basketball Hall of Fame, the Division II Committee, the MassMutual Center, the downtown hotels and restaurants, the Springfield Business Improvement District and the GSCVB. We're all working together to make this a great experience for all Championship attendees."

For visitor information, including special hotel rates in effect during the Championship, visit www.valleyvisitor.com.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

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Pioneer Valley Tourism Officials to Meet With Legislators In "Rally For The Valley”

Thu, 04 Mar 2010 09:58:00 -0500

CONTACT: Tim O'Brien, Scorpio Communications
Phone: (413) 531-9648 Email: timo@jugglermeadow.com

PIONEER VALLEY TOURISM OFFICIALS TO MEET WITH LEGISLATORS IN "RALLY FOR THE VALLEY"

Springfield, MA-(3/4/10) Members of the Board of Directors of The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) will travel to the State House in Boston on Thursday, March 4, where they are scheduled to hear directly from the Speaker of the House, the Senate President and the Governor, as well as other legislative leaders, regarding tourism industry funding and make a compelling argument for increasing the tourism promotion budget in the months ahead as the House and Senate begin budget deliberations. The GSCVB is one of 13 regional tourism councils in Massachusetts funded in part by the state's budget.

The Board members include approximately 20 private business representatives in the Pioneer Valley's tourism industry, led by GSCVB Chairman of the Board Gregory B. Chiecko. The group is making the trip to reinforce the importance of funding the tourism industry on both a regional and state-wide level, and is expected to meet with - among others - Governor Deval L. Patrick, Speaker of the House Robert A. DeLeo, State Representative John D. Keenan, co-chairman of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts & Cultural Development, Speaker Pro-Tempore Thomas M. Petrolati and Senator Stephen J. Buoniconti.

"The importance of the tourism industry in the Pioneer Valley, as well as the Commonwealth in general, must not be underestimated," said Chiecko. "The budget cuts that were inflicted in the past year have left tourism marketing entities in Massachusetts significantly restricted in their ability to target the message to potential visitors that this is an ideal destination for all. Tourism dollars are critical to Massachusetts' financial success. In addition to it being the Commonwealth's third largest revenue generator, the industry also supports countless jobs in our region, provides tax revenue, and keeps area businesses going. We need to bring this message to Boston, it's our 'Rally for the Valley.'"

The Board will present a brief overview on the importance of this industry to the Pioneer Valley's economy to the legislators, including comments from several Pioneer Valley business leaders, including Chiecko, Robert W. Gilbert, Jr. (president, Dowd Insurance), Larry D. Litton (president, Six Flags New England), Daniel F. Walsh (vice president and managing director, Columbus Hotel Group), Peter C. Rosskothen (owner/president, The Log Cabin & The Delaney House), and John B. Hesslein (station manager, CBS3 Springfield).

Chiecko added, "The tourism industry is the Commonwealth's 'golden goose' in that it generates $250.7 million in annual room tax revenue alone. We're requesting that the legislators invest $6 million in the upcoming fiscal year to help us try to gain back this critically important revenue for the state's economy. That's less than a 3% investment. Add to that the fact that the tourism industry employs 128,000 people throughout the Commonwealth and is a significant economic generator. The industry is huge, yet it's incredibly fragile at this time. We need to keep this golden goose alive."

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

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Springfield's NBA Development League Team Unveils Name and Logo

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:42:00 -0400

Springfield's NBA Development League Team Unveils Name and Logo

SPRINGFIELD, MA JUNE 30, 2009 - The NBA Development League's team in Springfield today announced it would be known as the Armor. The announcement took place at the MassMutual Center, where the team will play its home games beginning in 2009-10, and included the unveiling of the Armor's primary and secondary logos.

The name "Armor" pays tribute to the historic Springfield Armory, which has served as a symbol of strength and stability for Western Massachusetts and the United States as a whole since George Washington authorized its creation in 1777.

"I'm thrilled that the identity of our basketball team pays homage to an institution as revered as the Springfield Armory," principal team owner Michael Savit said. "I am confident that the Springfield Armor, like the Springfield Armory, will provide a source of pride throughout the Pioneer Valley."

Depicting a strong, armored figure holding a basketball, the logo was developed by Springfield-based Six-Point Creative Works. The five colors featured in the primary logo are red, blue, black, silver and orange. Both the alternate and extracted logos include four of those colors.

The team's identity was determined following the results of a Name the Team poll, which enabled fans to cast a vote for options including Armor, Colonials, Founders, Spirit or a write-in candidate. Housed on the team's Web site, www.armorhoops.com, the poll's availability spanned from April 20 through May 1 and garnered an outpouring of votes.

"The Springfield Armor, like its historic namesake, is going to contribute mightily to the City of Springfield," said James E. Rooney, executive director of the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority, which owns the MassMutual Center. "But instead of rifles and muskets, this enterprise is going to produce good times for families, a new sense of team and city pride, and most importantly, bring basketball to the city that gave this great game to the world."

With an ownership group led by Massachusetts-based Michael Savit, NBA Springfield was announced as the NBA D-League's second team in New England during a press conference at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on March 31. Beginning in November, the newly named Springfield Armor will play a 50-game schedule, including 24 home dates at the MassMutual Center.

With an emphasis on providing affordable family entertainment and NBA-caliber basketball, the Springfield Armor has season tickets beginning at just $91! For more information, please call (413) 746-3263 or visit www.armorhoops.com.

NBA Development League
The NBA Development League, founded in 2001, is the NBA's official minor league and featured 16 teams with direct affiliations to NBA teams during the 2008-09 season. This Fall, two new NBA D-League teams will begin play in Portland, Maine and Springfield, Mass.-- the birthplace of basketball. Eighty-four former NBA Development League players were on 2008-09 NBA end-of-season rosters, amounting to almost 20 percent of NBA players, and the league continues to develop coaches, referees, and front office staff for the NBA and its teams. In fostering the league's connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA D-League Cares programs. The NBA D-League also advances the game of basketball as the research and development arm of the NBA. Throughout the season fans can watch all NBA D-League games on NBA Futurecast, the free live Web-streaming initiative found at nba.com/futurecast.

Six-Point Creative Works
Six-Point Creative Works is a full-service advertising agency providing fresh, creative approaches for clients in a wide range of industries. Owned and managed by creative partners David Wicks, Marsha Montori and Meghan Lynch, the firm recently opened new offices and a research focus group facility at 9 Hampden Street in downtown Springfield, from which they serve clients throughout the Northeast. Wicks, who designed the logo, also will be collaborating with the Springfield Armor to design graphics for the team's uniform, mascot, program books and other materials to be unveiled in the coming months.

Greater Springfield & Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureaus Team Up To Present Tourism Trends Seminar

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 08:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

Event Open to Both Members and Non-Members

Springfield, MA--(4/3/09) The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) and the Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau (GHCVB) will co-present "Tourism Trends," a seminar that will examine the future of tourism as well as provide an update in hospitality and travel trends, on Wednesday, May 6 at 12:00pm at the New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks, CT.

Featured speakers will include Maureen O'Hanlon, a senior partner of the Prism Partnership, who is a 25-year veteran in the travel and hospitality industry, and Kiran Jain, director of marketing & development at Bradley International Airport. O'Hanlon will address travel industry trends and Jain will provide an update about Bradley International Airport.

The seminar will begin with a lunch at noon, followed by the speakers. A tour of the New England Air Museum is available immediately following the presentations.

The cost to attend the seminar will be $12 for GSCVB or GHCVB members, and $20 for non-members. Attendees must RSVP to Alyssa Carvalho, GSCVB membership manager, at 413-755-1347 by May 1.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For information about the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau, or western Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley, call 800-723-1548 or visit www.valleyvisitor.com

The GHCVB works in partnership with Hartford's businesses, institutions, nonprofit organizations, and surrounding communities to market the entire region as a premier destination for national, regional and statewide conventions and major sporting events. Its membership includes businesses and organizations from throughout the region. For information about the Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau and its "Bring It Home to Hartford" campaign to generate new business, call 860-728-6789 or visit www.enjoyhartford.com.

GSCVB & Pioneer Valley Tourism Professionals Attend Governor's Conference

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

Springfield, MA--(3/30/09) Several staff members of the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) were joined by numerous Pioneer Valley tourism professionals and Bureau members at the 22^nd Annual Massachusetts Governor's Conference on Travel & Tourism at the Westin Boston Waterfront Hotel on March 27.

More than a dozen Bureau staff and members opted to travel to and from the event on a Peter Pan Bus Lines V.I.P. coach. The conference was presented by the Boston-based Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT).

In addition to a speech from Governor Deval Patrick, the conference included an economic outlook on tourism in the Commonwealth, an unveiling of MOTT's 2009 advertising campaign, and a panel discussion on tourism marketing strategies and target audiences.

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau To Host Division II Pre-Con Pep Rally

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 08:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

Springfield, MA--(3/10/09) The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) will present a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II Men's Basketball Pre-Con Pep Rally at Champions Sports Bar in Springfield on Wednesday, March 18 at 3 p.m.

Designed to inform downtown hotels, restaurants and clubs about the specifics of the week's activities, the rally will also celebrate the impending arrival of more than 15,000 players, friends, family and fans of the championship teams that will be coming to Springfield to take part in the NCAA Division II Men's Elite Eight Championship March 25-28.

There will be an overview of the game schedule, downtown events taking place on the Championship weekend and a presentation of hospitality promotional items created for this significant occasion. There is no charge to attend the pep rally, but participants must contact the GSCVB at (413) 755-1370 to confirm attendance.

"We're very excited about the return of Division II Men's Basketball to Springfield," said GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra. "The Championship attracts players and fans with limitless enthusiasm for the event and a great love and respect for the sport. We couldn't be happier to welcome them to Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, and home to the one and only Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Our downtown hotels, restaurants, stores and attractions stand ready to offer them the utmost in hospitality."

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

“Springfield First” Marketing Campaign to Promote Conventions and Meetings for MassMutual Center, Springfield and Pioneer Valley

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 07:00:00 -0500

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com
Dean Serpa, Chief Marketing Officer
Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
Phone: (617) 954-2378 E-mail: dserpa@massconvention.com

“Springfield First” Marketing Campaign to Promote Conventions and Meetings for MassMutual Center, Springfield and Pioneer Valley

Springfield, MA - (February 17, 2009) - Focused on the state-of-the-art MassMutual Center and the unique meeting advantages of Springfield and the Pioneer Valley, the "Springfield First" marketing and media campaign was announced today. The multi-faceted program is targeted at meeting and event planners nationwide, and represents a joint effort of the "Team Springfield" group comprised of the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB), the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) and Global Spectrum, the private facility management firm responsible for the day-to-day operations of the MassMutual Center.

"The 'Springfield First' program is a truly collaborative effort designed to have positive economic impact on the convention, hotel, entertainment and overall business environment in Springfield and the Pioneer Valley," said James E. Rooney, executive director, Massachusetts Convention Center Authority. "This initiative is about communicating the many benefits of Springfield and the MassMutual Center to the meeting professionals responsible for venue selection and event planning."

"Springfield First" will be officially launched in the first quarter of 2009. The campaign will focus on three major messages: the MassMutual Center's expanded and flexible exhibition and meeting space and award-winning service team; the big-city amenities, small-town hospitality and affordable pricing of Springfield; and the Pioneer Valley's central location that makes it easily accessible for attendees and visitors arriving via plane at nearby Bradley International Airport, train, car or public bus transportation.

Components of the "Springfield First" program include the release of a new web site, www.springfield-first.com, that will provide meeting planners with a user-friendly, interactive guide to the MassMutual Center facility along with the latest information on the transportation, hotels, restaurants and other amenities of greater Springfield. The marketing and media outreach will feature high-profile ads in targeted trade publications, a year-round direct mail program, web-based marketing including a quarterly series of electronic newsletters and promotional "e-cards", and participation in meeting planner industry events.

According to Mary Kay Wydra, president of the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, "The 'Springfield First' concept reflects the theme that meeting planners should think of Springfield and the Pioneer Valley first when considering an ideally located and highly affordable venue, as well as the fact that Springfield has historically been a city of firsts such as the birthplace of basketball and the first commercially sold vehicle. We believe it all adds up to a great first choice for any kind of convention, meeting or special event."

About the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel. For more information, visit www.valleyvisitor.com

About the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority
The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority owns and oversees the operations of the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center, the MassMutual Center in Springfield, MA and the Boston Common Parking Garage. For more information, visit www.massconvention.com

About Global Spectrum
Global Spectrum is the fastest growing firm in the public assembly facility management field with more than 65 facilities throughout the United States and Canada. The Philadelphia-based company is part of one of the world's largest sports and entertainment firms Comcast-Spectacor. For more information, visit www.global-spectrum.com

GSCVB Holds Annual Meeting; Appoints Officers And Members

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 08:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/Public Relations Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Holds Annual Meeting; Appoints Officers
And Members

HOLYOKE, MA -- (October 31, 2008) – More than 100 hospitality industry professionals, including Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism Executive Director Betsy Wall, gathered at the Holiday Inn & Conference Center in Holyoke yesterday afternoon for the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau’s (GSCVB) Annual Meeting. The Bureau recapped its efforts in fiscal year 2008 and announced the appointment of 9 new officers and members to its Board of Directors.

Those officers who have been nominated to serve a two-year term include Greg Chiecko, sales director at Eastern States Exposition, to serve as chairman, and Peter Rosskothen, owner of The Log Cabin & Delaney House, to serve as vice chairman. Remaining as officers with a term expiring in 2009 are Mike Hurwitz, owner of Pizzeria Uno, to serve as vice chairman, Kathy Anderson, director of planning and development, City of Holyoke, to serve as treasurer, and Mansour Ghalibaf, owner of Hotel Northampton, to serve as secretary/clerk.

New members of the Board of Directors to serve a two-year term include Joseph Carvalho, president and executive director of the Springfield Museums Association, John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Carolyn Edwards, senior marketing director of Prime Outlets, Debra Flynn, owner of Eastside Grill, Robert Gilbert, president and CEO of Dowd Insurance, Harlan Kent, president, COO of Yankee Candle Company, Larry Litton, park president, Six Flags New England, Bruce Nable, president, SER Expo Services, and Christina Pappas, president, Open the Door Communications.

Members of the Board of Directors who have been nominated to serve an additional two-year term include Stu Hurwitz, owner of Rein’s Deli, William Rogalski, general manager of the Holyoke Mall at Ingleside, Robert Schwarz, vice president of Peter Pan Bus Lines, and Daniel Walsh, vice president and managing director of Columbus Hotels.

The following individuals, whose terms will expire in 2009, will remain on the GSCVB Board of Directors: John Hesslein, station manager of CBS-3 Springfield, Matt Hollander, general manager of the MassMutual Center, Kevin Kennedy, communications director at Museums10/Five Colleges, Inc., Bruce Landon, president and general manager of the Springfield Falcons Hockey Club, Judith Matt, president of the Spirit of Springfield, Tim O’Brien, president of Scorpio Communications, Shardool Parmar, co-owner of the Pioneer Valley Hotel Group, Paul Picknelly, president of Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel, Rod Warnick, hospitality tourism management department head at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and Lenny Weake, president of the Quaboag Valley Chamber of Commerce.

“The Bureau had a full agenda of event programming, marketing plans and initiatives for its members in FY08,” said GSCVB Chairman Greg Chiecko. “There were several roundtable events featuring pertinent tourism industry topics, an aggressive advertising and marketing plan that targeted multiple markets and included several co-operative opportunities for Bureau members, and significant media placement for the region and its tourism sites. We’re pleased with the outcome of our efforts and, as always, are grateful to work with our members as partners in promoting the Pioneer Valley to potential visitors.”

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

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Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
* Denotes a new officer or Board member
** Denotes officer or Board member elected to new term

2008 - 2009 Officers

**Chairman of the Board: Greg Chiecko, Eastern States Exposition
Vice Chairman: Michael Hurwitz, American Restaurant Corp.
**Vice Chairman: Peter Rosskothen, The Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House
Secretary/Clerk: Mansour Ghalibaf, Hotel Northampton
Treasurer: Kathy Anderson, Office of Planning and Development, City of Holyoke

2007 - 2008 Board of Directors

*Joseph Carvalho, Springfield Museums Association
*John Doleva, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
*Carolyn Edwards, Prime Outlets
*Debra Flynn, Eastside Grill
*Robert Gilbert, Dowd Insurance
John Hesslein, WSHM-LP/CBS3
Matt Hollander, MassMutual Center
**Stuart Hurwitz, Rein’s Deli
*Harlan Kent, Yankee Candle Company
Kevin Kennedy, Museums of the 5 College Area
Bruce Landon, Springfield Falcons
*Larry Litton, Six Flags New England
Judith Matt, Spirit of Springfield, Inc.
*Bruce Nable, SER Expo Services
Tim O'Brien, Scorpio Communications
*Christina Pappas, Open the Door Communications
Shardool Parmar, Pioneer Valley Hotel Group
Paul Picknelly, Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel
**William Rogalski, Holyoke Mall at Ingleside
**Bob Schwarz, Peter Pan Bus Lines, Inc.
**Daniel Walsh, Columbus Hotels
Rod Warnick, Hospitality Tourism Management Department, University of Massachusetts
Lenny Weake, Quaboag Valley Chamber of Commerce

GSCVB Unveils Visitor Demographic Results

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 08:00:00 -0400

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Lee Chambers, Marketing/PR Manager
Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Tel: (413) 755-1345/E-mail: lee@valleyvisitor.com

GSCVB Unveils Visitor Demographic Results

SPRINGFIELD, MA--(9/16/08)—The Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) has announced the results of a recent survey designed to estimate the conversion of Pioneer Valley tourism inquiries into actual tourist visits. The presentation was part of the Bureau’s annual Marketing Showcase event, which took place on September 16 at Yankee Candle Company’s Employee Health and Fitness Center.

Last June, an online survey was issued to the GSCVB database who requested visitor information about the region, as well as those who subscribe to GSCVB online newsletters. There were 487 completed surveys, which represented a 9.4% response rate. The Prism Partnership of Boston collected the data and provided the statistical information.

Among the findings:

The Pioneer Valley has a Gross Conversion Rate of 56% of inquiries that resulted in a subsequent visit (percent of inquiries that resulted in a subsequent visit) and a Net Conversion Rate of 19% (percent who were undecided until the information was received).
The majority of Pioneer Valley visitors (71%) stayed overnight, while 29% enjoyed day visits. May is the most popular month for both overnight and day visits, with June coming in second place. 45% of visitors stay between 1-3 nights, while the average length of stay among overnight visitors is 4.9 nights.
One-third of visitors to the Pioneer Valley are couples, and another one-third are families.
Of overnight visitors to the Pioneer Valley, the majority are professionals (59%) who earn $100,000 - $149,000 (24%), are married (76%) and are 45-54 years old (30%). Among day visitors to the Pioneer Valley, the majority are professionals (53%) who earn $50,000 - $74,999 (26%), are married (65%) and are 35-44 years old (23%).
The GSCVB’s web site (www.valleyvisitor.com) was cited as the most frequently used inquiry path, with two-thirds of inquiries originating from the site.
Of all visitor information and/or marketing materials requested (with multiple items per inquiry included), the GSCVB’s Pioneer Valley Guide was most popular (80% of visitors requested), followed by various brochures from area attractions (50%) and the GSCVB WOW Value Book (27%).
Of the 44% of respondents who did not ultimately visit the Pioneer Valley, 68% are planning a trip to the region in either the near or distant future. Of those not visiting, nearly 25% cited the high cost of gas as the primary reason.
82% of visitors used their personal auto for visiting The Pioneer Valley.
Of all visitors to The Pioneer Valley, 49% stayed in hotels or motels.
The total average per-party expenditure for all visitors was $565. Overnight visitors had a much higher average expenditure of $744, whereas Day Visitors spent an average of only $121.
Satisfaction with visits to The Pioneer Valley is extremely high, with a total of 93% being either somewhat or very satisfied.
The Pioneer Valley is viewed by visitors as very affordable, with 87% characterizing it as very inexpensive, fairly inexpensive or neither expensive nor inexpensive. 63% of visitors would “definitely recommend” the Pioneer Valley as a destination to others.
64% of visitors to the Pioneer Valley have been here before.
Visitors were asked what other destination(s) they were considering when making a destination choice. Four states/regions (VT, NH, Boston and the Berkshires) tied for first place at 14% each.
The top 5 origin markets for all visitors to The Pioneer Valley are: Boston/Manchester, Springfield/Holyoke, New York, Hartford/New Haven and Washington DC.
The top 5 origin markets for overnight guests are: New York, Boston/Manchester, Springfield/Holyoke, Washington DC and Albany/Schenectady /Troy.

According to Bureau President Mary Kay Wydra, “The survey results confirm our long-held belief that the Pioneer Valley is an ideal destination for a variety of visitors, especially couples and families. We’re greatly encouraged by the data that verifies that there is a continually growing demand for our marketing materials about the region, and that so many of those inquiries convert to actual visitor experiences that are reported as being positive.”

The GSCVB, an affiliate of the Economic Development Council of Western MA, is a private non-profit destination marketing organization dedicated to promoting Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley for meetings and conventions, group tours and leisure travel.

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Press Releases - ValleyVisitor.com

GSCVB Annual Meeting Features Samuel Adams Brewer Jim Koch

GSCVB Annual Meeting Features Samuel Adams Brewer Jim Koch

GSCVB Accepting Nominations For 2012 Howdy Awards

GSCVB Accepting Nominations For 2012 Howdy Awards

GSCVB To Hold Annual Meeting Featuring Guest Speaker Jim Koch of The Boston Beer Company

GSCVB To Hold Annual Meeting Featuring Guest Speaker Jim Koch of The Boston Beer Company

GSCVB Nominee Bright Nights Designated Top Destination By American Bus Association

GSCVB Nominee Bright Nights Designated Top Destination By American Bus Association

MAAC Marketing Directors Meeting

GSCVB Names 2011 HOWDY Award Recipients

GSCVB Names 2011 HOWDY Award Recipients

GSCVB Unveils Print and Online Editions of 2011-2012 Pioneer Valley Tourism Guide

GSCVB Unveils Print and Online Editions of 2011-2012 Pioneer Valley Tourism Guide

GSCVB Announces 16th Annual Howdy Awards Finalists

GSCVB Announces 16th Annual Hospitality Awards Finalists

November a Busy Month for Pioneer Valley Conventions, Meetings and Events

NOVEMBER A BUSY MONTH FOR PIONEER VALLEY CONVENTIONS, MEETINGS AND EVENTS

GSCVB Holds Annual Meeting & 25th Anniversary Celebration

GSCVB HOLDS ANNUAL MEETING & 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

American Bus Association Names Bright Nights at Forest Park One of North America's 100 Best Events For 2011

AMERICAN BUS ASSOCIATION NAMES BRIGHT NIGHTS AT FOREST PARK ONE OF NORTH AMERICA'S 100 BEST EVENTS FOR 2011

GSCVB Presents Double Decker Dine Event

GSCVB PRESENTS DOUBLE DECKER DINE EVENT

GSCVB Unveils 2010-2011 Pioneer Valley Tourism Guide

GSCVB UNVEILS 2010-2011 PIONEER VALLEY TOURISM GUIDE

American Bus Association Site Selection Committee Arrives in Pioneer Valley for Annual Meeting; Touring Area Attractions

AMERICAN BUS ASSOCIATION SITE SELECTION COMMITTEE ARRIVES IN PIONEER VALLEY FOR ANNUAL MEETING; TOURING AREA ATTRACTIONS

GSCVB Names 2010 Howdy Award Recipients

GSCVB NAMES 2010 HOWDY AWARD RECIPIENTS

Two for the Read By Jamie Stringfellow

Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau To Host Division II Pre-Con Pep Rally

GREATER SPRINGFIELD CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU TO HOST DIVISION II PRE-CON PEP RALLY

Pioneer Valley Tourism Officials to Meet With Legislators In "Rally For The Valley”

PIONEER VALLEY TOURISM OFFICIALS TO MEET WITH LEGISLATORS IN "RALLY FOR THE VALLEY"

Springfield's NBA Development League Team Unveils Name and Logo

Springfield's NBA Development League Team Unveils Name and Logo

Greater Springfield & Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureaus Team Up To Present Tourism Trends Seminar

GSCVB & Pioneer Valley Tourism Professionals Attend Governor's Conference

Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau To Host Division II Pre-Con Pep Rally

“Springfield First” Marketing Campaign to Promote Conventions and Meetings for MassMutual Center, Springfield and Pioneer Valley

“Springfield First” Marketing Campaign to Promote Conventions and Meetings for MassMutual Center, Springfield and Pioneer Valley

GSCVB Holds Annual Meeting; Appoints Officers And Members

GSCVB Holds Annual Meeting; Appoints Officers And Members

GSCVB Unveils Visitor Demographic Results

GSCVB Unveils Visitor Demographic Results

GSCVB Nominee Bright Nights Designated Top Destination
By American Bus Association

GSCVB Unveils Print and Online Editions of
2011-2012 Pioneer Valley Tourism Guide

GSCVB HOLDS ANNUAL MEETING & 25^TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

GSCVB Holds Annual Meeting; Appoints Officers
And Members