Behind the Scenes

On The Scene Earns ADMC Designation!

2010-12-08T08:59:00.000-06:00

We are proud to announce that On The Scene has successfully completed the requirements for the Accredited Destination Management Company (ADMC) designation! The ADMC program is managed by the Association of Destination Management Executives (ADME) which is the pre-eminent organization for Destination Management Companies. The ADMC designation assists the meeting planning community by identifying and qualifying standards and criteria that are indicative of the highest quality destination management service providers.

On The Scene ADMC Press Release (pdf, 376kb)

Why select an ADMC?-ADME website

Chicago Flipbook

2010-12-02T13:21:00.000-06:00

The Chicago Convention & Tourism Bureau has created an excellent Chicago video 'Flipbook', to help promote the city as a business and leisure destination. The CCTB conducted a year-long video shoot capturing footage of the city in all 4 seasons, as well as additional footage of McCormick Place. The end result is a fascinating, stunning high definition look at the many cultural and architectural treasures of Chicago. Enjoy!

Gala Evening at the Art Institute of Chicago

2010-11-12T15:38:00.000-06:00

'Form Follows Function': Over 500 international guests enjoyed a Frank Lloyd Wright inspired evening utilizing old and new spaces in the Art Institute of Chicago. Starting with cocktails and hor d'oeuvres on the Grand Staircase, guests perused the world famous Impressionism and Post-Impressionism galleries. Then, guests moved into the Modern Wing for an elegant seated dinner in the Renzo Piano designed Griffin Court. Inspirational quotes by Frank Lloyd Wright were projected on the gallery walls, while dining under a 25 foot waterfall projected on the west wall. After dinner, cocktails and dessert were served in the stylish Terzo Piano restaurant, featuring stunning views of Millennium Park and the Chicago skyline. Guest mingled in the hip lounge inspired space, with vibrant lounge vignettes, colorful Lucite lamps and specialty uplit tables.

Winter Wonderland Event at Navy Pier

2010-02-15T14:02:00.000-06:00

On The Scene created a Winter Wonderland at the Lakeview Terrace of Navy Pier for an RSNA Customer Appreciation Event. Shades of white and blue emphasized the winter wonderland feel. Four modern white fringe-fabric sofas offered comfortable seating for the estimated 500 guests. Dramatic cylinders covered in mirrored organza fabric were suspended over the central bar. Each cylinder was lit from within by a pair of crystal chandeliers. Several 10'x12' light screens were positioned throughout the space featuring customized branding within vertical strands of tiny white lights.

On The Scene Rolls Out the Red Carpet for Second City!

2009-12-16T14:45:00.007-06:00

The influential improv theater Second City celebrated its 50th Anniversary last week in Chicago. Countless Second City alumni, including Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell and Jim Belushi, returned to Chicago to commemorate ’50 Years of Funny’. Three full days of events, including a 50th Anniversary Show and a SCTV reunion, took place to mark this milestone. Southwest Airlines, who sponsored the private Second City charter flight, called upon On The Scene to arrange the red carpet arrival at their hangar at Midway Airport. As the private Southwest charter arrived, the air stairs were pulled up and the red carpet was rolled out. Waiting to greet the Second City Alumni flight were various Second City founders and alumni as well as local press and media. As they stepped off the plane, guests were greeted with a champagne toast by Andrew Alexander, the CEO of Second City and a reading of a proclamation by the City of Chicago.

On The Scene Named Spotlight Award Finalist!

2009-12-14T13:22:00.005-06:00

We are proud to announce to all of our event colleagues that On The Scene has been selected as a Finalist for the 2010 Event Solutions Spotlight Award in the category of Event Company of the Year. We invite you to visit http://www.event-solutions.com/, click on the VOTE NOW button. Then scroll to the Event Planner of the Year category and review some of our top event accomplishments.

The Event Solutions Spotlight Awards are unique to the event world. These prestigious awards recognize and honor the top individuals and companies which lead our vibrant industry. For detailed information about the Spotlight Awards, including a complete list of 2010 Spotlight Award Finalists, please visit-http://www.event-solutions.com/spotlight_awards.

“We are honored to be nominated as a finalist for the Event Solutions Spotlight Award”, said Jamie Orr, Event Manager at On The Scene. “The Spotlight Awards represent the pinnacle of event management achievement. This year’s finalists are the leaders in this industry, whose passion and commitment to delivering world-class events are our inspiration”.

The recipients of the Event Solutions Spotlight Awards will be announced at the 2010 Spotlight Awards Event, Monday, March 8, 2010 in Las Vegas. The voting site closes on January 31, 2010.

La Gran Familia Goya!

2009-11-09T14:56:00.018-06:00

To celebrate the opening of Goya Foods’ new state-of-the-art distribution center in Bolingbrook, IL, On The Scene created a memorable event focusing on the rich tradition and heritage of the Goya Foods brand. Nearly 250 Goya employees, customers, and friends & family attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the 147,000 square foot facility.

Upon arrival, guests were greeted with calypso melodies provided by the local Roberto Clemente High School Steel Drum Band. As guests made their way into the warehouse, a ‘Canstruction’ display-over 3,200 colorful Goya product cans stacked to spell ‘Goya’-guided guests as they arrived. The food products on display were donated to the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

As guests entered the warehouse, a store isle display of the 1,500 Goya product offerings provided a rich and colorful atmosphere. The food products were arranged according to region-Caribbean, Mexico, Spain, Central and South America, highlighting the high quality products that have satisfied generations of customers for over 70 years. The stage backdrop consisted of stacked pallets of Goya products, configured around the stage to create an amphitheatre style environment for the various speakers and dignitaries. Erin O’Connor, the reigning Miss Illinois, sang a soaring a capella rendition of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’. As the ribbon was cut to officially open the warehouse, confetti cannons went off as the local Goya employees entered the room though a break-away banner adorning the Goya logo. The warehouse employees got the group on their feet, as they lead the guests into the warehouse loading dock, where lunch was served.

The loading dock was transformed into a vibrant celebration featuring the local Latino neighborhoods that thrive on Goya products. Each buffet station was designed to represent the various regions that Goya represents-Mexican, Caribbean, South American, and Central American. Each ‘vignette’ featured colorful images of Chicago’s rich Latino neighborhoods, while displaying regional Goya products and offering a tasty selection of traditional Goya recipes. A lively Spanish guitar duo provided background music, flamenco, classical and Latin American styles ranging from traditional to pop. Throughout the lunch, guests were invited to tour the warehouse and visit the functioning bean packaging operation.

“Let me take this opportunity to thank On The Scene for an excellent job, the two events were great. Everyone is saying that they had never been to a Grand Opening like the one we had, fantastic.” -General Manager, Goya Foods Midwest

On The Scene-Goya Foods Warehouse Opening Press Release-Nov '09 (pdf, 415KB)

A Bus is Just a Bus... or is it?

2009-10-23T09:49:00.001-05:00

When selecting the right transportation provider for your next meeting or event, planners face a myriad of available shuttle options. Should I work with a local transportation expert, or try to save a few bucks by working with a ‘traveling shuttle company’? The Association of Destination Management Executives (ADME) has published an excellent white paper outlining the pitfalls when using a traveling shuttle company. The goal is educate planners on the value and benefits of using a local Destination Management Company (DMC) for this very critical meeting component. After all, knowledge of the destination is the most important factor when planning a safe and efficient shuttle.

Values and Benefits of Using a Local DMC vs. Working with a Traveling Shuttle Company (pdf, 105 KB)

Oh What A Night!

2009-10-05T16:16:00.004-05:00

Over 200 guests attended a Client Appreciation Dinner during the IBTTA 77th Annual Meeting & Exhibition. On The Scene created a unique, one-of-a-kind experience by custom designing a dinner event planned to be fresh and memorable. Held at the contemporary River East Art Center, this two-story lofted event space offers stunning water views, soaring ceilings and a 60-foot-wide illuminated Venetian water wall. Guests were treated to a spectacular dining event provided by Blue Plate, one of Chicago’s premier caterers. After dinner, guests experienced a surprise performance by ‘The Three Waiters’, who got the crowd on their feet with their soaring opera renditions. After the performance, guests retreated to the outdoor patio for dessert and cigars under a perfect Chicago sunset.

‘Thank you so much for the great job you did on our behalf to make our IBTTA Client Appreciation Dinner in Chicago such a success. We appreciate all the time you spent with us in selecting the venue and planning and executing all the details of the evening.’ Mary, Senior Vice President

On The Scene Named to Inc 5000 List!

2009-08-12T14:55:00.006-05:00

On The Scene is honored to announce that we've made the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing privately held companies in America! Now in its third year, the Inc. 5000 is the most comprehensive portrait of fast-growing private companies assembled anywhere. We have earned the position of 3,268 on the 2009 Inc. 5000 annual list and placed No. 21 in the Travel category.

Please click here for the On The Scene Inc. 5000 Press Release

Please click here for our Company Profile in the Inc. 5000

Industry Veteran Joins On The Scene!

2009-07-01T11:25:00.000-05:00

On The Scene is pleased to announce the addition of industry veteran, Patty Hayes, to the On The Scene team! Patty brings over 20 years of experience and leadership in the hospitality industry to the On The Scene sales force. Her vast knowledge of managing logistics and meeting client's needs has proven her to be an expert in the event management industry. You can reach Patty at 312-661-1440 ext 203 and email: patty@onthescenechicago.com.

Patty Hayes joins On The Scene's experienced sales team

The Contact DMC Group and On The Scene Give Back!

2009-07-01T10:19:00.000-05:00

During the Contact DMC Group retreat in Aspen, members participated in a 'Green' teambuilding event, designed to a raise awareness of environmental issues facing today's meeting planners. 'Go Green Racing' was the theme, as Contact members worked together in teams to design and build a solar car and a 'Green' car, constructed from recycled materials. The Contact DMC group received special help from students from the Aspen Community School, a local charter school offering academic excellence in a safe small-school environment.

The CONTACT DMC Group Teambuilding Results In Donation To Aspen Community School

On The Scene Joins The Contact DMC Group!

2009-04-22T12:40:00.000-05:00

On The Scene, Chicago's award-winning Destination Management Company, has joined The Contact DMC Group, a consortium of destination and meeting management companies. Representing the Chicago market, On The Scene brings nearly 40 years of destination management expertise to the most established network of leading DMC's.

The Contact DMC Group offers the highest levels of personal service across 19 markets in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The group operates approximately 4,000 events yearly and generates an estimated $100 million in destination management yearly revenue. By building proven customer service relationships and offering an exclusive level of consistency, The Contact DMC Group along with On The Scene, represents the very best in Destination Management!

Click here to read the Press Release (pdf, 268KB)

On The Scene GM Earns DMCP Designation!

2009-04-13T16:19:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to John Stachnik, General Manager of On The Scene, for successfully completing the requirements to become a Destination Management Certified Professional (DMCP)!

The DMCP certification is offered by the Association of Destination Management Executives (ADME), the pre-eminent organization for Destination Management Executives. Destination Management professionals who earn their DMCP designation demonstrate the highest level of knowledge and commitment to the destination management profession.

Why Work with A DMCP?

On The Scene Wins ILME Readers’ Choice Award for Best DMC!

2009-02-16T09:40:00.000-06:00

For the third time in four years, On The Scene takes home the top prize at the Illinois Meetings + Events magazine Readers’ Choice Best of Awards! The leading meeting and event planning professionals gathered on February 12 for the 4th Annual Readers Choice Awards at The Underground in Chicago. The event was planned to honor the top faces, places and service providers in the state as chosen through a reader poll. Hundreds of votes were cast through a ballot inserted into the magazine as well as online voting through the publication's web site.

“Since the inception of the Readers’ Choice Awards in 2006, On The Scene has been named Best Destination Management Company three times by the readers of Illinois Meetings + Events magazine.”, said John Stachnik, General Manager of On The Scene. “It is an honor to be recognized by our peers in the meetings & events industry and we thank Illinois Meetings + Events for this highly coveted award”.

Click here to view the 2008 Readers’ Choice winners

On The Scene is named 'Best Destination Management Company' in 2007 by the readers of Illinois Meetings + Events Magazine

On The Scene Named ILME ‘Best of 2008’ Award Finalist!

2008-12-29T14:08:00.000-06:00

For the fourth consecutive year, Illinois Meetings + Events magazine readers have named On The Scene as a finalist in their annual Best of 2008 Readers’ Choice Awards. The Readers’ Choice Awards honor outstanding Illinois venues, attractions and suppliers in the meetings and events industry. Award finalists are chosen by the most knowledgeable experts in the meetings & events industry.

Since the inception of the ILME Readers’ Choice Award in 2005, On The Scene has won the ‘Best Destination Management Company’ award twice in the last three years. “Once again, we are honored to be a finalist for this prestigious award”, said John Stachnik, General Manager of On The Scene. “The Readers’ Choice Awards represent the very best that Chicago has to offer and we appreciate the chance to win this award for the second year in a row”.

The winners will be announced at an awards event on Thursday, February 12, 2009 at The Underground in Chicago. Attending the event is free and you can RSVP at the ILME website at: http://www.ilmeetingsmag.com/.

Read the ILME Best of 2006 Award Press Release (pdf, 31KB)

On The Scene Sponsors Client Event at Pritzker Stage

2008-11-05T10:17:00.000-06:00

The Jay Pritzker Pavilion Stage stands alone as a sculpture; it is comprised of rich Douglas Fir acoustic panels and is topped by a sweeping steel crown. This dramatic venue provided an elegant background for a recent client event sponsored by international meetings & events company and On The Scene.

Over 30 corporate meeting planners & executives attended the sponsored client dinner, set at the Millennium Park’s breathtaking Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritizker Pavilion. The stage was set with six square tables with seating for 10 in espresso colored leather high back chairs. Each table featured an uplit centerpiece of crimson, mandarin and apricot colored gladiolas.

A Spanish guitar duo, featuring Latin American standards and traditional & classical flamenco, was the perfect musical accompaniment for the evening. One of Chicago's premier full-service catering companies provided the eclectic mix of international and American fare.

On The Scene Plans 50th Anniversary Celebration for Prestigious Law Firm

2008-09-18T11:46:00.000-05:00

To help celebrate their 50th anniversary, a national leading law firm hired On The Scene to produce a memorable evening to commemorate this milestone. After an extensive search, the Chase Promenade at Millennium Park was chosen as the ideal location for the gold anniversary celebration. A high-powered guest list of approximately 500 judges, attorneys and legal professionals were in attendance to mark this special occasion.

A 66’ x 213’ clear span tent with French double doors and clear, vinyl side walls was set up on the North Promenade of Millennium Park. Inside the tent, dramatic Manzanita trees with a gorgeous collection of flowers nestled in its branches highlighted the guest tables. The focal point of the evening was the custom four-sided, tufted satin bar set beneath a beautiful floral chandelier hanging from the ceiling. Textured lighting accentuated the ceiling in blue and purple hues while gobo lighting projected the client’s logo on the side walls of the tent. Guests sipped cocktails while relaxing around the striking lounge settings and listening to the live jazz entertainment on stage.

“First of all, thanks for doing such a spectacular job – everybody, and I mean EVERYBODY – loved it!”-Julie, Legal Assistant

“What an extraordinary way to celebrate this important milestone, “said Jamie Orr, Event Manager of On The Scene. “Putting all the elements together to produce this once-in-a-lifetime event have been an unforgettable experience for On The Scene. Congratulations on your 50th anniversary and here’s to many more celebrations in the future!”

On The Scene Delivers Value for Large Pharma Client!

2008-07-17T08:52:00.000-05:00

For a large pharmaceutical sales meeting, On The Scene was called upon to handle all ground transportation and two evening events for approximately 1,700 guests. Starting with a smooth airport arrival shuttle program, the evening's welcome event was held at the hotel's exhibition hall. "Space…Infinite Possibilities and Endless Boundaries" was the welcome reception's theme, as the stars, planets, and galaxies were the center of the universe. To create the feeling of infinite “space”, black fiber optic star curtains were positioned in various perimeter areas of the room. The center focal of the room was a vibrantly illuminated, 4-foot diameter sun incorporated into a large center buffet station. Moon Pies, Milky Way candy bars and a space-aged DJ added to the futuristic vibe for the evening.

The second night event was held off-site at one of Chicago’s endearing landmarks-Navy Pier. "Summertime at the Pier" was the theme, as the Grand Ballroom was brought to life with vibrant washes of color on the main floor and the stage backdrop. A breathtaking 32’ x 23’ LED wall on the main stage displayed high energy video effects along with company branding and logos. An 18 piece blues orchestra with dancers and performers go the crowd on their feet, while Jake & Elwood (aka The Blues Brothers), made a surprise appearance.

Outside, the East End Plaza of the pier was restored to its early 20th century heyday for a summer BBQ. Fresh solid colored linens in an array of colors filled the plaza, while popcorn and cotton candy machines enhanced the summer feel. Servers dressed in red and white striped shirts with black bow ties and ‘skimmer hats’, passed out lollipops and other treats from their hawker-boxes. A Dixieland jazz band entertained the crowd with ragtime favorites from the 20’s, 30’s and 40’s.

"Working with On The Scene these last few months has been an amazing journey. I can't tell you how much your unwavering support, enthusiasm, creativity and dedication to the project has meant to me. On The Scene no doubt is the best!"-Andria, Meeting Planning Manager

On The Scene Visits the Friendly Confines!

2008-07-15T16:14:00.000-05:00

The On The Scene team recently experienced a once in a lifetime event-a behind the scenes tour of Wrigley Field on game day! Upon arrival at Wrigley Field, we were delighted to see our name in lights on the main marquee at the corner of Clark and Addison. As guests of the Chicago Cubs, we were whisked onto the field and stood behind home plate while the visiting team took pre-game batting practice. Then, we were escorted to the Cubs dugout and sat on the players bench while taking in the sights & sounds of Wrigley Field on game day. Finally, we took our seats in the stands and cheered the Cubs on to another home victory.

"It was an remarkable day for all of us and we'd like to personally thank the Cubs for making it all possible. We experienced Wrigley Field through the players eyes and it was a day that we will never forget" -John Stachnik, General Manager, On The Scene

Rotary International and On The Scene Shine in Sunny LA!

2008-07-01T09:08:00.000-05:00

The Rotary International Annual Convention concluded this past June 14 through June 18 in Los Angeles with over 17,000 attendees. On The Scene operated and managed the entire convention shuttle encompassing 38 different hotels, 12 routes, ADA vehicles and over a dozen specialty vehicles.

In addition to the regular shuttle system, On The Scene operated two mass movement shuttles for the convention. One following a performance at the Nokia Theater for over 3,500 guests and a second mass move of nearly 7,000 guests to and from the Hollywood Bowl. The Los Angeles Convention Center confirmed that it was the single largest mass movement of people in the buildings history! Over 140 motor coaches were used to transport all of the guests in just over an hour from the bowl back to their hotels!

"Rotary International is a pleasure to work with for such a large shuttle program. There are numerous elements involved and happening at the same time that need to be orchestrated. Even with the NBA finals next door we were able to work together to move everyone on time and safely."-Jay Weidner, Director of Sales, On The Scene

Click here for complete 2008 Rotary International Convention coverage (courtesy of Rotary International)

Tips from the Pros-Ground Transportation

2008-05-29T10:02:00.000-05:00

The overall success of your next meeting or event often depends on the most overlooked facet-ground transportation. First impressions are everything. Before your guests even set foot in their destination, it's how they got there that sets the tone for the entire meeting. Two recent news articles highlight the importance of working with the right transportation provider. The recent edition of Illinois Meetings + Events 'Seven Habits of Highly Efficient People Movers' provides tips & techniques for building the perfect transportation strategy. Also, 'On The Road Again' from Corporate & Incentive Travel offers best practices and real life examples for working with ground transportation providers.

"Everyone assumes transportation is an easy thing. It’s not as simple as renting six buses for six hours. It’s hard to make all the pieces fit together to make the experience enjoyable." -Jay Weidner, Director of Sales, On The Scene-Illinois Meetings + Events, Summer 2008

On The Scene Transportation Case Study-Rotary International (pdf, 325 KB)

'Seven Habits of Highly Efficient People Movers'-Illinois Meetings + Events, Summer 2008

'On The Road Again-Transportation Sets The Tone'-Corporate & Incentive Travel, November 2007

On The Scene Named 'The Best of '07' by Illinois Meetings + Events!

2008-04-02T11:25:00.000-05:00

For the second time in three years, On The Scene has been named an Illinois Meetings + Events magazine 'Best of the Industry' award winner! ILME readers voted for the very best in Illinois' meetings and events industry and once again, On The Scene took home the award for best Destination Management Company. The 'Best of '07' ILME winners were recently named at an awards ceremony attended by the leading meetings and event professionals in Chicago.

"On behalf of all the employees of On The Scene, we are honored to accept this prestigious 'Best of '07' award. As the inaugural winner of the ILME award in 2006, it is always an honor be recognized by our peers in the meetings and event industry"-Jay Weidner, Director of Sales, On The Scene

Click here to view the complete list of ILME 'Best of '07' winners

Chick here to view photos from the ILME awards ceremony at Rockit Bar & Grill

On The Scene Wins ADME Achievement Award!

2008-02-28T09:20:00.000-06:00

On February 28, over 250 Destination Management Professionals gathered to celebrate the Third Annual ADME Achievement Awards. "For Excellence in Destination Management" was the evening's theme, set in the Crescent City of New Orleans. On The Scene was honored to receive the ADME Achievement Award for 'Best Overall Program', a new award for this year's ceremony.

To win this prestigious award, On The Scene's brought together creative thinking and stretched boundaries to produce a spectacular 4 day event for a large pharmaceutical company. Program elements included: A tropical themed Welcome Reception, an international 'Around The World' celebration at the Field Museum and an unforgettable exclusive performance of Grammy Award winning artists Maroon 5 at the House of Blues.

"I extend my congratulations to all the finalists for the outstanding
work they have done and for the recognition they so deserve. Our winners represent the Best Of The Best in the DMC industry and we extend kudos to all of them." -Ilene Reinhart, DMCP, CMP-ADME President

Click here to view the complete list of winners from the Third Annual ADME Achievement Awards

On The Scene Surveys Go Online!

2008-02-06T12:56:00.000-06:00

In order to continually improve our services, On The Scene has implemented a web survey solution enabling real-time collection of program performance information. Our online solution quickly allows us to analyze trends and effectively measure the attainment of our client's goals & objectives. This short web survey only takes 5 to 10 minutes to complete asks our clients to rate all aspects of our job performance, including Customer Service, Sales and Operations Management. The results of your survey responses are tracked and used to set the baseline for future On The Scene programs.

Please click on this link to visit the On The Scene Program Evaluation Survey.