Rocky Mountain High

More than 16,500 Rotarians from 147 nations attended the 98th Rotary International Convention, which was held in Salt Lake City in June 2007. After an extensive bid process, On The Scene was selected for the overall management planning, equipment provision and operational supervision of transport services for the convention. Safety and operational efficiency were the main goals in delivering a world-class transportation program for the convention.

On The Scene first developed the hotel shuttle plan encompassing 48 hotels and 13 routes over 5 days with peak & non-peak frequencies. Detailed transportation guides, signage, traffic control and transportation coordinators all worked in conjunction, ensuring a smooth and successful hotel shuttle program. Pre-convention meetings shuttles, Rotary leadership buses and VIP vehicles were all coordinated and organized by the On The Scene transportation team. In addition, On The Scene operated shuttles for two Host Committee events-The Rocky Mountain Rodeo at the Delta Center and the Rendezvous in Pioneer Park. Throughout the convention, an on-site transportation control office was established to manage the transportation system and to maintain its quality control.

“Your team approach of managing the on-site logistics, security, staffing, bus and driver training, as well as the various other components of the RI program, including Host Organization events, private tour groups, VIP schedules and disabled transfers further demonstrated your extensive industry knowledge for the delivery of an overwhelmingly successful transportation program.”-Transportation Administrator, Rotary International

The Complete Chicago Experience

On the Scene offered a large technology company program showcasing all the wakes of the city. With so many options the only problem was choosing what to do. The fashion savvy were given an inside scoop on shopping in Chicago with “A Shoppers Paradise: The Magnificent Mile.” A tour guide showed them the ropes of this shopping Mecca along with a hidden gem or two, while shoppers splurged to make full use of their coupon books and special gifts. Other guests showed off their swings at Harborside Golf Course where risk versus reward is a strong factor. As Chicago is the number one city for biking in the country, some guests were able to experience the bike friendly pathways on the Lake Shore Bike Tour. The history of Chicago sunk in with a few memorable stops including the original Playboy Mansion and Old Town. The last stop was North Shore Beach where they might have caught a view of other guests enjoying their exclusive sailing adventure on the Red Witch. The Red Witch is a 77-foot Gaff rig topsail schooner giving everyone a taste of the city skyline from Lake Michigan. Guests enjoyed delicious sandwiches and wine and beer while either soaking up the sun or learning how to sail. “The gates are up and away they go” rang in the ears of guests at You Can “Bet” On a Day at the Races at the Arlington Park Rack Track. Here they enjoyed the beautiful views of lush gardens from the International Room. The floor to ceiling windows enabled views of the stiff competition that could make or break their day as horses battled down the stretch.

Still wanting more, On the Scene provided a dinner cruise aboard Kanan Cruises on Lake Michigan . This yacht has four levels of elegance and fine dining beginning with a piano lounge on the first level including fine wine and premium cocktails as part of the fully stocked bar. A catered buffet was on the second level, prepared and served by Chicago’s finest caterer, with a dessert buffet on the third floor. For a perfect ending to the elegant evening an open deck on the fourth level was ideal for viewing the fireworks and the city skyline.

All though Chicago is “my kinda town,” On the Scene was also able to give this company a taste of New York at their awards dinner. Opening with a performance by Rockette-style dancers, guests found their seats in the Broadway Show of their choice from Hair Spray to Lion King. Broadway aside, it was time to bring back to the city of blues by throwing them a private bash at Chicago’s renowned Blues bar, Kingston Mines. Two bands on two stages played while everyone danced the night away into the early hours of the morning when breakfast was served. The night truly reflected life in the city where Chicagoans work hard, live hard, and play hard.

Just wanted to say again, how happy we were with your team executing our program. It was a pleasure to work with you. I would like to add a special thank you to Sara and to Carla for service above and beyond. They caught every curve ball we threw at them!!

For more information on this event, please contact Sara Ruby, Program Manager, On The Scene

An Elegant Affair

Family Video, the largest privately owned movie and game retailer in the United States, recently celebrated their 500th store opening. On The Scene was called upon to transform a private residence into a breathtaking and elegant outdoor party to celebrate this milestone. 'An Elegant Affair' was the evening's theme, as 300 guests marveled in an evening that they will certainly remember for quite some time.

Two tents filled with textured lighting and Chinese lanterns created a chic and eye catching display, as shadowbox dancers thrilled the crowd with their provocative moves. A modern DJ and five Chinese acrobats kept the crowd enthralled while they enjoyed a delicious assortment of international cuisines. Luminaries and candles in and around the pool created the perfect focal point, while uplit Lucite tables and custom covered ottomans completed the scene. Lanterns and garden lights hung from the willow and oak trees surrounding the property. Finally, a fireworks display topped off a perfect evening, leaving the guests wanting more.

"On The Scene has a great staff and Program Managers, we were very happy with everything. They helped pull together a great event in less than three weeks!" Heather Hanrahan, Family Video

For more information about this event, please contact Jamie Orr, Program Manager, On The Scene

'End of The Summer Bash'

You are invited to the 1st Annual 'All Industry End of The Summer Bash' at Crobar August 27th 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. This is a FREE event to celebrate the end of the summer with colleagues. Bring your office, colleagues, and invite your industry friends to gather with meeting planners and hospitality professionals! No registration needed....Just show up and seriously just have a good time! This party is being thrown by our good friends at HeresChicago.com and Crobar nightclub. I hope to see you all there!

Welcome to the 'Behind The Scenes' Blog!

Hello everybody and welcome to the inaugural post of the 'Behind The Scenes' blog! My name is John Stachnik, General Manager of On The Scene Destination Management. My goal with this blog is to keep you up to date on the latest & greatest in Chicago, from the hottest new venues to fun & creative ideas for your next meeting or event. I've got a fantastic job-I get to plan parties and events in the greatest city in the world (sorry, New York)! Along the way, I've picked up a few tips and suggestions that will help you to turn your next event into a truly memorable occasion. So, sit back and enjoy the 'Behind The Scenes' blog and please let me know any topics that you would like to discuss. Thanks! John