Associations Turn a challenge into opportunity
An ironic outcome of the challenging economy is the advent of association "super-meetings" in New York. While in past years, numerous smaller meetings may have been held in multiple locations, merging everything into one big event to save money creates both opportunities and challenges in attendee networking.
First, the challenge - how can an association keep track of all these extra attendees? An international food association we recently worked with frequently uses a hand held product called SpotMe (http://www.spotme.com/). Other associations are opting for special networking events, scheduling off-site dinners, and splitting the meeting into smaller working groups that in-turn split off into smaller venues within and away from the main site. That requires great communication among attendees and we work closely with top New York hotels who now offer inclusive Wi-Fi throughout their properties.
Now, the opportunity. Gadget-makers, especially those with the latest hand-held devices are eager to test their products in a major consumer mecca like New York. Put 800 business people in one Manhattan location for several days and sponsorship opportunities will abound.
As a leading New York DMC, we are on the front lines of new tech product placements both in the storefront, on street-level ads, and at meetings. As June's launch of the newest Palm proved with 2-hours lines, New York City is the place to sell a gadget to professional.
With Labor Day behind us and Fall events in full swing, it’s time to pull out our Blackberry (or day planners for those who won’t give up the pen and pad) to fill our schedules with a month jammed packed with events. Some of the highlights for September?
With Broadway shows going through a complete overhaul this season, they’ve also added a new twist to their repuitoire. This fall, catch celebs like Jude Law, Sienna Miller and James Spader make their Broadway debuts in some of the most anticipated shows of the fall season. The celeb-studded roster begins in September with ‘A Steady Rain’, starring 007 actor Daniel Craig and X-Men’s Hugh Jackman. Following right after, heart throb Jude Law takes the stage. Not to be outshadowed, Sienna Miller debuts in ‘After Miss Julie’; Julia Stiles and Bill Pullman in ‘Oleanna’; and James Spader in ‘Race’.
Governors Island (that tiny island located just south of the bottom tip of Manhattan) is expecting to draw more than 200,000 visitors this summer with their newest public art installation. Titled Plot 09: This World & Nearer Ones, the city’s first art quadrennial will open June 27 and feature 19 art commissions by artists worldwide.
You know a Manhattan Spring is in full bloom when our parks become the city’s cultural hub. With today's companies more and more conscious about the health of their top performers, creative (and affordable) ways to include some athletic teambuilding look to be a hot fixture of 2009 New York incentive and meetings travel. What better way to experience Manhattan’s outer beauty than by bike? Two of the best--and safest--routes in town are the Central Park loop and the path along the Hudson River in Riverside Park. Meeting planners looking to save a little money can skip the $25-a-head continental breakfast and plan a custom bicycle excursion instead. Even on weekday afternoons, Central Park bustles with activity, and Riverside Park boasts one-of-a-kind views of the George Washington Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.Becoming another face in the crowd among 8 million people is not hard in New York, and for businesses holding incentive meetings, team building conferences and special events, being a small fish in a big pond is the new trend for 2009. With criticism of business meetings at a fever pitch in Congress, New York City has ironically become an ideal location for businesses to offer unique incentive travel experiences and create high-impact events that do not make headlines nor end up in a floor speech at the US Capitol.
At Shackman Associates New York, our 2009 corporate events and meetings still reflect the New York's logical and continued importance as a world business capital. However, instead of lavish affairs at high-profile venues, our attendees are opting for programs that are economically productive and give back to the community. For example, we are managing Realtors focused on repairing the country's housing market and touring innovative development in Harlem, team builing clients building bikes for school children in the Bronx, and after-hour events at one of Manhattan's unique bowling venues. "Exotic menus" in 2009 often consist of our city's famous pizza and rare varietals from far locales have given way to the many fine wineries we have right here in upstate New York and Long Island. With more venue choices than other locales, the willingness of Manhattan hotels to renegotiate room rates, and exceptionally low airfare options into the region's airports, I expect New York to be a preferred destination for any business serious about keeping important meetings and events on their schedule in 2009.
We are back from San Antonio after attending the annual Association for Destination Management Executives (where we were even nominated for an award!), and where the sun and southern comfort are never in short supply.
But after the long haul back to New York, we must admit – we can’t get the taste of big Texas barbeque out of our heads! So today’s blog is dedicated to BBQ joints both big and small, that make New York a contender with some of the best smoke houses in the country.
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Head up north to Harlem to have a taste of some of the best finger lickin’ foods. Everyone in town knows Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, and everyone has made at least one trip on the 1 train to have a taste of their tangy creations. Try the “Big Ass Pork Plate” for a real treat of St. Louis-cut glazed ribs. Keeping it real, Dinosaur has an extensive beer list highlighting selections from the Northeast.
Johnny Utah’s
One of the newer residents to Rockefeller Center, Johnny Utah’s may be best known for housing New York’s only mechanical bull. But look further… let your stomach follow your noses down the mining shaft passageway into the old saloon-style restaurant. The main event happens in the kitchen, behind the old wood smoker pit containing hickory, fruit, and New York State apple wood logs. Jalapeno Hominy Grits and BBQ sliders will grace your mouth with such deliciousness you’ll have to say Yee Haw!
Hill Country
Make your way to the Flatiron District, and you’ll run into another urban tribute to Texas, Hill Country. Wait in line with your ticket (think Katz’s Deli) and pick n’ choose your any of your favorite BBQ creations. One of the favorite local spots of the Shackman Associates team, this is a sure bet if you’ve got a brisket & beer hankering.
New Yorker's have their eye towards a greener future, and we want to tell you all about it. We have the inside scoop on the newest and trendiest green stores, buildings, parks, community gardens and other green places in New York City.
With New Yorkers always on the move, it usually comes as no surprise when restaurants open, venues close, and designers reinvent their lines to showcase the next best thing. But even with all the hustle and bustle, no one expected one of the biggest moves of all. Fashion Week, known worldwide for its weeklong showcase at Bryant Park, will be heading uptown. Lincoln Center will be the new home for the 70+ designers come September 2010, creating about 25% more space for models to strike a pose.
New York will welcome the Red Bull Snowscrapers event on February 5, hailing as the largest snowboarding contest to be held in an urban setting. Set along the East River (near Hudson Street), come one come all as 16 of the worlds best snowboarders compete for a cool $100,000 prize purse.
As New Yorker’s wait for their Island to thaw out and bring with it the warm Springtime sun, we thought we’d spring forward to the latest and greatest in water-side fashion. This year New York City will welcome the tallest ship to ever hit the Hudson River. At 160 feet long, with masts rising 120 feet off the deck, nothing will prepare you for the sensation of being on this amazing ship. This ship is New York's only tall ship, and one of the largest sailing boats still in operation. The ship itself holds up to 140 guests, and is the perfect setting for your next incentive - stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline included. 
So much amazing music has laid its roots in New York City. From the Ramones to Madonna, so many artists got their start in some of the small music clubs that grace the streets of downtown.
Times Square has just welcomed it newest and perhaps most famous resident. The New Year’s Eve ball was sent back up towards the sky via a 141-foot flagpole this week, where it’s 2,600 Waterford Crystals will continue to sparkle. Its new home at One Times Square will remain lit until the next New Year’s celebration, making it the first time in history visitors can get a photo of the ball at anytime throughout the rest of 2009. Three... Two... One... 
(From left to right: South Street Seaport, Bryant Park, Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History, Botanical Garden, Rockefeller Center)
Don’t miss it! The second annual Major League Dreidel Competition will once again take place at Fontana’s on Eldridge Street. Come one, come all, as competitors will go for gelt as they spin the dreidel. Shmaltz Brewing Company will also be on site in case you prefer a different type of spinning sensation.In case you need a brush up on your spinning technique, let’s revisit the official rules of Spinology:
1. The release: When a spinner winds and discharges the dreidel from their fingers.
2. The orbit: When the dreidel is spinning at its peak speed, tightness and control. A good spinner will have an orbit of 6 seconds, a true master over 8. The orbit is the most crucial phase of a spin, demonstrating the spinner’s true dreidel dexterity.
3. The wobbles: The conclusion of a dreidel’s orbit, when the dreidel loses speed, tightness and control.
4. The finish: The conclusion of a dreidel’s wobble, when the dreidel comes to a complete rest on its side, inside the Spin Zone.
With only one week until ChristmaHanuZwanzaka, New Yorker's today welcomed their first snowfall of the holiday season. While it wasn't quite enough to make a snowman, we still relished in the thought of a white Christmas. 
Today marks the official lighting of Rockefeller Center's most beloved resident. Before the actual lighting of the tree, stars Beyonce and The Jonas Brothers will also be lighting up the stage with live performances. The 30,000 solar-powered LED lights will be shining every night from 5:30pm til 11:30pm through January 9th. 
New York's most beloved Christmas tree is on its final course to Manhattan today. A 74-foot tall Norway spruce was hand chosen to decorate Rockefeller Center this season, where it will remain through the New Year. While the official lighting isn't until December 3rd, crews will be 'pining' away through the upcoming weeks to 'spruce' up the 8-ton tree.
In a historic moment, on November 4th Barack Obama has been elected to be the 44th President of the United States of America. Having spent 4 years at Columbia University on the Upper West Side of New York City, he is no stranger to the Big Apple and what it has to offer. Officially taking office on January 20th, 2009 we would like to congratulate him on his success.
Chanel in Central Park? A somewhat unlikely combination, but not this fall when the spaceship-like Chanel Pavilion lands smack dab in the middle of it. Zaha Hadid, a London based artichect, was hired to design the 7,400 square foot steel structure, pieced together with white plastic panels. Already on display in Hong Kong, the exhibit will travel from New York to Moscow to Paris over the next year. The sleek, timeless style pays homage to the haute couture brand Chanel. The free exhibit is on display through November 9.
In celebration of man (and woman’s) best friend, this Sunday Times Square will welcome our furry friends to the Fourth Annual Dog Day Masquerade. The afternoon of canine camaraderie will include a costume contest while also raising awareness for one of the City’s largest animal adoption agencies, Animal Haven. What’s better? The infamous Naked Cowboy will be on hand to judge the costumes, with best in show going to the pup that best encompasses the aura of Times Square.
It’s once again that time of year to lace up your skates and head out to the rink. This week marks the opening of a number of rinks throughout the city for you to take a spin on. And while you’re at it, why not learn a little bit of the history behind these famous rinks. 
What pairs best with food and wine? Celebrities of course. Enter the New York City Wine and Food Festival, kicking off today with a matchup of the best of all things culinary. Tastings, book signings, and cooking demos will be held around the city this weekend (catch us at the Bobby Flay demo at Highline Ballroom this Saturday). Plenty of giveaways and celebrity sighting are a given, but if you watch (and smell) closely enough, you may even learn a thing or two.
5 Years of Horror. Need I say more? This Lower East Side autumn mainstay has once again come to give New Yorker’s a run for their money. Dubbed ‘Nightmare New York’, this classic walk-through haunted house isn’t for the faint of heart. Their newest fear factor - SAW V room – is a chilling ode to goblins and ghouls from back in the day. Check 'em out, now through November 8. Boo.
The two year renovation of the Intrepid is finally complete! New Yorker’s will welcome back the acclaimed 41,434 ton steel air-craft carrier today, which was commissioned to serve in World War II. Behind the Scenes is what it’s all about, with guests now able to view areas like the Foc’sle (aka the area of the ship that controls the anchors) and crew quarters, giving a real perspective on life aboard the Intrepid. While the official opening date isn’t until November 8, the partnering Museum next door is full steam ahead for incredible events at this one-of-a-kind venue.
Say what? Magnolia Bakery to open a 3rd location near Rockefeller Center? Say it isn't so. 
From gray skies to sunny Rome, a great new addition is about to hit Midtown Manhattan. Obika’, the cheese-tastic eatery first opened in the Eternal City, will be landing in the IBM Building this December. Modeled after Japanese sushi-bars, Obika’ is replacing fish with cheese to create delicious concoctions like Mozzarella rolls (Rolled and Sliced Mozzarella di Bufala Campana with Speck and Radicchio) and its own Mozzarella Bar. Bon appétit!
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Our favorite Illusionist is at it again. David Blaine, the Brooklyn-born magician, will be dangling above Wollman Rink in Central Park – The same spot where he will remain hanging for the next three days. While this is just a stint in the long list of ridiculous stunts (remember the 72 hours emerged in ice?), Blaine is claiming this one to be the most difficult. Calling on sheer willpower inspired by his hero, Harry Houdini, he will hang without sleep or food for the next 60 hours. We checked out David in all his glory this morning, and must say, this one is better left to the winged-creature of the night.
In ode to my favorite season/holiday/weather in the New York City, this next month will be dedicated to welcoming Fall. Now presenting - Fall into Autumn, 2008.
Looking for a place to wear two-tone shoes, slide across freshly waxed floors, and knock down the competition? Typical run-of-the-mill bowling alleys are no longer making the cut?
The official opening day for the Target Bullseye Bodegas proved to be too much to handle. Today swarms of New Yorker’s looking for a bargain bombarded the Bullseye pop-up stores in an effort to snag chic wares for less coin. Over 22 designers are selling their chic wares in the 4 pop-up Target brand stores located throughout the city, with one each in Union Square, Midtown, Soho and the East Village. We took a stroll over to the Midtown store (located in the former Delta Sky 360 Lounge) to take in the show. Sigerson Morrison flats and Anya Hindmarch clutches were flying off the shelves faster than Delta’s fee hikes. Too bad this store will be here and gone in a New York minute.
As if the opening of the new Mets Stadium isn’t enough to get us pumped up for next year’s season, Citi Field Stadium has announced a 60,000 square-foot event space which can be available for exclusive events for those in the know. Even home plate is not off limits, but only if you have a special NYC connection (and lucky for you – we do!). So come and Meet the Mets up close, word on the street is Shackman Associates has the hook up!
Today officially marks the placement of the first beam for the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. While not slated to be completed until 9/11/2011, the beam is giving New Yorker’s hopes of rebuilding the past. At 7,700 pounds, moving the beams to their current location has been no easy task. Before the beams make their way to the Big Apple, they are sent around the country where tens of thousands of people can sign it and leave messages of hope. The first set of signed beams will be displayed at the upcoming Jets verses Giants home opener at Giants stadium later this week. 
Musician turned Artist turned Biking Enthusiast David Byrne has done it again. Normally, we don't like to lavish one single person with too much praise, but this guy won't stop catching our attention (not that we're complaining). Byrne, best known as the front man for the popular band Talking Heads, and most recently with his "Playing the Building" installation (see below), has taken it to the streets. Today, the New York City Department of Transportation has installed nine new bikes racks, created by Byrne, throughout the city’s streets. Aimed to increase bicycle use and beautify the streets, the racks are inspired from New York neighborhoods and activities. The dollar-sign named “Wall Street” is located in the heart of Wall Street. The guitar “Hipster” design is in the vibrant musical neighborhood of Williamsburg, and “Jersey”, a design of a car’s silhouette near the entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel, are just a few of the neighborhood friendly installations around the city.
As airline carriers are seeking out ways to counter the rising fuel costs, the friendly skies have hit our wallets harder than ever. Airlines are letting their FEE-dom ring, with new charges for what once were standard amenities.
Renowned artist David Byrne is sounding off. After teaming up with the public art organization Creative Time, Byrne has created quite a stir with his latest bizarre installment. Titled “Playing the Building”, the sound-based interactive exhibit has been sending tingles up the spines of all who come into contact with it. The exhibit is simple – a single wooden organ situated on the cavernous 2nd floor of the Battery Maritime Building. The organ is attached by wires to the building's windows, columns, walls and pipes, which when ‘played’ creates one eerie sounding performance. But don’t expect this organ at your local worship – the howls, squeals, and rattles of the organ are best left for Halloween, not holy hour.
46 million people visited New York City last year, drawn in by the bright lights, Broadway shows, and of course, the weakened US Dollar. Check out the stats:
7 years after the Statue of Liberty’s crown officially closed for business, the federal government is entertaining the idea of reopening Lady Liberty’s crown to the public. While the pedestal of the statue has remained open since 2004, the crown and narrow staircase leading up to it has been closed after the September 11 attacks, for what we have been told, indefinitely.
It’s like any other Saturday. You’re stranded in Manhattan (because you are too broke to go to the Hampton’s), and you head over to Central Park to get some sun on your pasty skin (because your cubicle is in the deepest darkest corner of the office, guaranteeing 0% sunlight 100% of the time). You grab your book and blanket, and sit down in the Park for some quality R&R. Then it hits you. You are starving, but you are trapped in the middle of Sheep’s Meadow, and the only way out involves dodging 3 Frisbee games, 2 kite flyers, a crying baby, and a dog off his leash.Fear no more, park dwelling junkies! Slice, the trendy pizzeria offering deliciously healthy pizzas, now delivers to Central Park! So go on, enjoy your day off, and let Slice do the work. Check it out here!
Looking for a place to cool off this summer? Why not take it underground? No, I’m not recommending a late night rendezvous in the local subway car, but I am telling you to get off your butt and watch some girls kick butt at New York’s only all-female roller derby league.
If you haven’t been to P.S. 1 Contemporary Art Center – get there. Now. 
With Café Gray officially vacated from the famed Time Warner Center, the third-floor space will welcome another renowned restaurant slated to open in the current space early next year. A Voce, the second restaurant to open under the same name, will be setting up shop at the new uptown location. Offering modern Italian cuisine, the interior of A Voce will feature a modern-industrial look that will no doubt impress even the toughest of critics.
