November 2, 2009

Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square Appoints Marc Mulherin Director of Catering & Convention Services

Lancaster, pa. (November 2, 2009) - The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square has named Marc Mulherin Director of Catering and Convention Services. Mulherin, who will lead all aspects of planning and executing events, has served in key convention sales and catering director positions in major cities across the country, most recently at the Sheraton Boston (Boston's largest hotel) and Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

"With his comprehensive skill set and experience in hospitality sales, services, and operations that spans 12 years and a variety of venues and major cities, Marc brings world-class talent to our mission," said Josh Nowak, Director of Sales & Marketing for the integrated facility. "We're confident that our clients, guests, and staff will benefit significantly from his talent and leadership."

Mulherin has worked for Starwood and Hyatt Regency, as well as food-service leader Aramark, in hotel and convention center settings throughout the U.S., including Phoenix, Chicago, Newport, Los Angeles, and most recently Boston. He holds a bachelor's degree in business management from Rhode Island's Bryant College.

About the integrated facility
Anchoring Downtown Lancaster and boldly incorporating the 110-year-old Beaux Arts facade of the historic former Watt & Shand department store, the integrated convention center / hotel facility offers a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space and the latest technology for conventions, events, and trade shows. A unique world-class facility set in a smaller, less expensive urban destination, the venue is centrally-located to the metropolitan areas of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and New York. The new facility offers space for groups up to 5,000 and includes a convention and exhibition hall, two grand ballrooms, and several finely-appointed meeting and board rooms.

About ownership of the integrated facility
The Lancaster County Convention Center is a publicly owned entity under the direction of the Lancaster County Convention Center Authority. The Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square is owned by the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Lancaster and leased to Penn Square Partners, the private company that holds the Marriott franchise.

About Interstate Hotels & Resorts
Interstate Hotels & Resorts, which operates The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, is the nation's largest independent hotel management company. For more information about Interstate Hotels & Resorts, visit the company's Web site at www.ihrco.com.

October 12, 2009

From distinguished experts to a man lounge for the guys, Best of Weddings Susquehanna Valley is sure to be a hit

Lancaster, Pa. (October 12, 2009) - Whether planning an off-the-chart event or a more modest ceremony, attendees of the upcoming Best of Weddings Susquehanna Valley showcase on November 22 are sure to be inspired. This festive event will offer valuable interaction with some of the most creative and distinguished wedding and event-planning professionals in the Central Pennsylvania region, including couture designers, musicians, florists, stylists, pastry chefs, travel experts, photographers, and ballroom dance instructors.

The showcase will be held November 22 from 12 to 4 p.m. at the brand new Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center facility on historic Penn Square in Lancaster.

Offering a magnificent setting, this event will even include a special Man Lounge complete with beer on tap and big screen sports for the gentlemen.

"We're thrilled to bring to the public such an experience, celebrating the creativity and dedication of some of the most talented wedding professionals in our region," said bridal consultant Jonnaysa Kirkham of Planned Perfection, a co-sponsor of the event along with the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square.

All members of the public are cordially invited to attend. Admission is $7 per person at the door, and a discounted pre-registration price of $5 per person is available via PayPal on the event's website (www.BestOfWeddingsBridalShow.com).

About the integrated facility
Anchoring Downtown Lancaster and boldly incorporating the 110-year-old Beaux Arts facade of the historic former Watt & Shand department store, the uniquely integrated convention center / hotel facility offers a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space and the latest technology for conventions, events, and trade shows. Appealing as a unique world-class facility set in a smaller, less expensive urban destination, the convention center facility is centrally located to the metropolitan areas of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and New York. The new venue offers space for groups up to 5,000 and includes a convention and exhibition hall, two grand ballrooms, and several finely appointed meeting and board rooms.

Booking information
To book an event at the integrated facility, call Josh Nowak at 866-503-3786 or 717-239-1601. For more information, visit www.lancasterconventioncenter.com.

About ownership of the integrated facility
The Lancaster County Convention Center is a publicly owned entity under the direction of the Lancaster County Convention Center Authority. The Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square is owned by the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Lancaster and leased to Penn Square Partners, the private company that holds the Marriott franchise.

PDF: 20091012LCCCPR.pdf

September 1, 2009

Lancaster County Chosen to Host Statewide County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania Convention

Lancaster, PA (September 1, 2009) -The Lancaster County Commissioners announced today that the County Commissioners' Association of Pennsylvania's (CCAP) Annual Conference will be coming back to Lancaster County in 2014 and will be held at the Lancaster County Convention Center. The 128th Annual CCAP Conference is expected to draw over 500 top county officials from across the commonwealth to Lancaster County.

"We are very excited to bring the CCAP Conference back to Lancaster County," said Commissioner Scott Martin. The convention was last held in Lancaster County in 1999 at the Host Resort. "A lot has changed in Lancaster County in the last 10 years and we are pleased for this opportunity to share our advancements, our industries, and our heritage spots with County leaders from across the commonwealth."

The location of the Annual Convention, which alternates yearly from east to west, is ultimately decided by a vote of its members. "The Lancaster Convention Center was chosen from six possible sites across eastern Pennsylvania," stated Commissioner Dennis Stuckey. "We believe this is a testament, not only to the quality of service and amenities provided at the Lancaster County Convention Center, but also to the ongoing efforts we, as a community, have given to making Lancaster County a superior destination spot."

The CCAP Annual Conference provides a series of educational sessions for statewide county leaders including commissioners, administrators, chief clerks, and other key staff. In addition, the convention incorporates a trade show bringing-in vendors from across the state to showcase a wide array of county services from finance to Information technology.

"All who attend will have the opportunity to see the many ways our community continues to work collaboratively to create positive growth," said Commissioner Craig Lehman. "During the Conference, attendees will have the opportunity to dine in our restaurants, shop in our stores, and experience the diverse culture offered in Lancaster City and throughout our County. We are excited to share with them all that Lancaster County has to offer."

The County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) is the voice of county government, a statewide, nonprofit, nonpartisan Association representing all of Pennsylvania's 67 counties. CCAP membership includes the county commissioners, council members, county executives, administrators, chief clerks and solicitors.

CCAP strengthens the counties' abilities to govern their own affairs and to improve the well-being and quality of life for every Pennsylvania resident. It advocates for favorable state and federal legislation, programs and policies on behalf of counties. CCAP is committed to service excellence through education, information, insurance, technology and other programs that support effective county government.

CCAP's legislative and regulatory policies promote flexibility and autonomy for county government. CCAP supports county leadership that is responsive to the needs and circumstances of the people. CCAP stands against state and federal actions that limit fiscal, administrative or programmatic authority over those developed locally.

Founded in 1886, CCAP is an affiliate of the National Association of Counties.

PDF: 20090901CCAPConvention.pdf

August 21, 2009

Premier quilting event coming to Lancaster in March 2010

(Lancaster, PA) American Quilter's Society (AQS) president Meredith Schroeder today announced that AQS will unveil its latest show to an anticipated 17,000 attendees at the new Lancaster County Convention Center (LCCC) on March 24-27, 2010.

The AQS Quilt Show & Contest - Lancaster will feature nationally-renowned quilting exhibits, workshops, contests, and special events. It's slated to return to Lancaster in both 2011 and 2012.

"We're very pleased to bring an AQS Quilt Show to a wonderful and natural quilting destination like Lancaster, and to provide another opportunity for quilters to enter our contests and be recognized for their amazing artistry," stated Schroeder. "March 2010 can't come soon enough."

"We're thrilled at the prospect of welcoming the American Quilter's Society and one of this country's top quilting shows to the new Lancaster County Convention Center," exuded Josh Nowak, director of sales & marketing with the LCCC.

"We can't think of a better setting for an AQS Quilt Show & Contest than Lancaster County - home to a rich quilting heritage within our Amish community, and where this art form continues to thrive today," said Christopher Barrett, president and CEO of the PA Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau. "The 2010 AQS Quilt Show presents an undeniably alluring opportunity for local and national quilters alike to share their creative process and outcomes, in a setting recognized worldwide for its beautifully manicured quilt of farms and fields."

The show is expected to utilize rooms and other space at various area hotel properties, and generate a projected $17-20 million in economic impact, based on standard industry formulas. Workshops and exhibits will also take place in Southern Market Center and Liberty Place Theatre & Conference Centre. Shuttle buses will transport attendees among the three conference venues and the anticipated 15-20 hotels that will provide accommodations.

Headquartered in Paducah, KY, the American Quilter's Society is one of the foremost quilting organizations in the U.S., dedicated to promoting and expanding the accomplishments of today's quilters. For lodging & other information about AQS shows, go to www.AmericanQuilter.com or call 270-898-7903.

PDF: 2010AQS.pdf

June 25, 2009

Auntie Anne's brings international meeting home to Lancaster

Company selects new convention center / hotel to host partners from around the world

Lancaster, Pa. (June 25, 2009) - Officials representing Auntie Anne's, Inc., the world's largest hand-rolled soft pretzel franchisor, and The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square are pleased to announce that Auntie Anne's will host its next international event for franchisees, store managers, and suppliers from September 15-17 at the brand new convention center / hotel facility. Approximately 1,000 individuals representing 43 states and 20 countries will be in attendance.

Over the last 21 years, Lancaster County has been the central location where individuals joining the Auntie Anne's system begin their journey with the company. Because of the significance of the location, Auntie Anne's is welcoming back its business partners with a homecoming event theme.

"The commitment we made in September of 2005 will now be a reality, 'Build it and Auntie Anne's will come!,'" said Samuel Beiler, president and CEO of Auntie Anne's, Inc. "We're looking forward to reintroducing our stakeholders to the various opportunities Lancaster has to offer and showcasing the impressive convention and hotel facility."

The global franchisor has not been able to host a system-wide meeting in Lancaster County for the last nine years due to a lack of an adequate full-service meeting facility. Notably, the September event will result in significant spillover business in the community, including the need for hundreds of additional guest rooms beyond the amount offered at the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square.

"We are thrilled that Auntie Anne's is able to welcome their entire group of partners back to their own hometown of Lancaster," said Joshua Nowak, director of sales & marketing for Interstate Hotels & Resorts, the management company for the facility. "We are seeing tremendous interest in both this beautiful new facility and Lancaster as a business destination - as a go-to place among meeting planners looking to bring their events to Pennsylvania," Nowak said.

PDF: 20090625AuntieAnnes.pdf

June 24, 2009

Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square Opens with Unrivaled Features

Lancaster, Pa. (June 24, 2009) - Operators of the Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square are pleased to announce that the uniquely integrated facility is open for business after just less than two years of construction. The landmark $177-million facility, anchoring historic Penn Square in Downtown Lancaster, Pa., boldly incorporates the 110-year-old Beaux Arts facade of the former Watt & Shand Department Store. The convention center and 299-room hotel will offer a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space and the latest technology for conventions, events, and trade shows.

Appealing as a world-class facility set in a smaller, less expensive urban destination, the facility is centrally located to Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and New York. The venue offers space for groups up to 5,000 and includes a convention and exhibition hall, two grand ballrooms, and finely appointed meeting and board rooms.

"We are seeing tremendous interest in the Lancaster County Convention Center as the go-to place among meeting planners looking to bring their events to Pennsylvania," said Joshua Nowak, Director of Sales & Marketing for Interstate Hotels & Resorts, the management company for the facility.

Presenting the compelling historical importance of its region

Paying remarkable homage to regional and American history, the facility incorporates historic structures and narratives within and around its own new architecture. The venue offers significant historical and cultural context, including being a key site of Pennsylvania's Quest for Freedom trail, which honors the sites and stories of the African American journey to freedom from the time of the Underground Railroad and Civil War to the present day. Eventually the overall project, which from inception held a vision of incorporating the unique historical fabric of Lancaster, will offer a 20,000-square-foot, $20-million interactive museum, the Stevens & Smith Historic Site (see www.stevensandsmith.org for additional background).

Under the leadership of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County (HPT), a water-collection cistern was unearthed and preserved during construction that had once been part of the Kleiss Tavern owned by influential Congressman and abolitionist Thaddeus Stevens. In the Vine Street entrance area to the facility, guests will behold a view of the preserved cistern, believed by scholars and archeologists to have been a hiding place used by Stevens and business partner Lydia Hamilton Smith to assist Americans escaping slavery along the Underground Railroad.

Lancaster as a destination

From bustling farmers' markets to scenic rural landscapes populated by the nation's oldest community of Old Order Amish, Lancaster offers a range of family-oriented activities and "country-life" experiences. But there's another side as well - a sophisticated urban center that offers dozens of well respected art galleries and exquisite fine dining and shopping. And as one of the largest National Historic Register Districts in the country, it offers hundreds of well preserved historical landmarks. Visiting architects and planners, in fact, have noted favorable assessments of the sense of place it offers, including that Lancaster "is the kind of place other communities are trying to create."

Decor and amenities

Interiors are distinctive and exude a warm cosmopolitan feel including fresh colors and rich mahogany accents. Expansive windows offer an infusion of natural light and remarkable views onto the Downtown. The facility's new construction incorporates the iconic facade of the former Watt & Shand Department Store, as well as other important historic structures and features.

In the 299-room hotel portion of this integrated facility, meeting attendees will find all the amenities commanded by the Marriott name, including 37-inch LCD high-def screens, smart plug-and-play system for connecting laptops to TVs, and luxurious pillow-top bedding.

PDF: 20090624LCCC_PR.pdf

June 23, 2009

Fact Sheet: Views of a Treasured Past

Built in the heart of Downtown Lancaster and seamlessly incorporating the facade of the landmark Watt & Shand department store, the Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square features sophistication and modernism while paying tribute to the unique historical fabric and culture of Lancaster.

Downtown Lancaster has been fortunate to preserve or restore its history, architecture, and distinctive character, all of which the new integrated facility embraces through its location and design. With nineteen floors, the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square offers remarkable views of the city's historic landmarks and century-old buildings that have stood through generations and connect us to a treasured past.

Listed here are some of the landmarks that can be seen from the hotel and convention center's upper floors:

Northern View (from left to right)

* Former Armstrong Headquarters
This site was home to Armstrong World Industries - a global leader in the design and manufacture of floors, ceilings, and cabinets since the late 1800s - before the company moved to its present headquarters on Columbia Avenue.
* First Reformed Church
Built in 1736, this church was the first local house of worship. For ten years - until the construction of a steeple - the congregation hung the church bell from a hickory tree, thus giving the area its original name, Hickory Town.
* First Presbyterian Church
Built in 1850, the East Orange Street church became President James Buchanan's place of worship. Many other influential historical figures, including U.S. Congressman Thaddeus Stevens, also attended services here.
* Lancaster County Courthouse
This is Lancaster's third and present courthouse, built in 1854 to better meet the needs of Lancaster's growing population than the previous courthouse location in Penn Square.

Southern View (from left to right)

* Woodward Hill Cemetery
The cemetery was founded by the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, and is the burial place of President James Buchanan and U.S. Congressman William Greist.
* Conestoga Steam Mills
Built between 1845 and 1910 and known for its production of Civil War Uniforms, this steam-powered cotton mill complex was the first and largest in Lancaster. One building now houses the Water Street Rescue Mission, and the two others encompass the Carter & MacRae Elementary School.
* Southern Market
One of Lancaster's five main markets, the market house was designed by Lancaster architect C. Emlen Urban and constructed in 1888 as one of the largest Queen Anne style structures in Central Pennsylvania. It closed as a market in 1986 and is now home to the Lancaster Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Eastern View (from left to right)

* McCaskey High School
This Art Deco masterpiece was the largest public building funded by the New Deal in Lancaster County, costing well over $1 million at its time of construction in 1938.
* Eastern Market
This Second Empire style market house was built in 1883 to serve the city's eastern end. Although it closed as a market in 1927, recent revitalization efforts have resulted in a periodic open-air market at the site, featuring ethnic and organic foods.
* Holy Trinity Lutheran Church:
Constructed in 1738, the church had the largest congregation of any denomination in Lancaster County at one time, with 1,300 German-speaking members, most of which were first-generation immigrants. Its steeple was the first to be raised in the city and sounded the news of the Declaration of Independence to the local citizenry.
* Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
With the belief that education is the great equalizer, Thaddeus Stevens granted $50,000 in his will to establish a school for the relief and refuge of homeless orphans. Founded in 1905, the school has evolved into a two-year institution offering associate degrees and certificates in technical education.

Western View (from left to right)

* Cabbage Hill
German immigrants settled here after the 1850s, providing labor for the Conestoga Steam Mills. For an easy meal on wash days, the women would make sauerkraut from the cabbage in their gardens, causing the smell to permeate throughout the neighborhood, thus resulting in its name.
* St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church
Founded in 1741, "Lancaster County's mother church" had a predominantly Irish congregation and a reputation for embracing diversity in a changing neighborhood. The Gothic-style building was constructed in 1852 and at one time also housed a school, Saint Mary's Academy and Orphanage.
* Jasper Yeates House
This Georgian-style house - a mansion in its time - was built in 1765 and later served as the first home of WGAL-TV.
* Fulton Theatre
Built in 1852, the Fulton Theatre is the oldest continuously-operating theatre in the country and is one of only three national historic landmark theatres.
* Pennsylvania Academy of Music
The Academy has offered young musicians quality instruction in performance and music theory since 1991 and completed this state-of-the-art facility in June 2008.
* Old City Hall
Built in the late 1790s, City Hall housed various levels of government and served as the state office building during Lancaster's time as the state capital. It currently houses the Heritage Center Museum and the new Downtown Lancaster Visitors Center.
* Central Market
The building was constructed in 1889 and is the oldest continuously-operating farmers market in the country.
* Greist Building
The Greist Building was designed by Lancaster's most distinguished architect, C. Emlen Urban. Built in 1925 as Lancaster's first (and until now only) skyscraper, it symbolized the city's 20th century development and is named for U.S. Representative William Greist.

Additionally, in any direction you can see that Downtown Lancaster is home to many tobacco and silk warehouses from days past. The 1800s put these factories to use as the city became an industrial powerhouse and commercial center. Many of these sites have been re-used and renovated for office space and other purposes.

Thanks to Nancy Haubert of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County for help in deciphering the Downtown Lancaster skyline, and to Amy Schulz of the PA Dutch CVB for developing this fact sheet.

PDF: FactSheetTreasuredPast.pdf

June 18, 2009

Fact Sheet

An eleven-year-long community effort in Lancaster has resulted in the completion of a world-class integrated hotel and convention center facility in the heart of the Downtown's historic Penn Square.

* The Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center is unrivaled in its features and delivers every bit of wow factor promised by its advocates a decade ago.

* Its repurposed facade, the Beaux Arts-style architectural gem that had stood quiet for more than a decade, had belonged to the former Watt & Shand Department Store.

* Perfect for events ranging in size from 5 to 5,000 people, the facility offers 90,000 total square feet of meeting space and 300 guest rooms and suites.

* Offering generous amenities, posh residential-style interiors, the latest in high-tech business features, and an exceptional guest experience, this facility further reinforces Lancaster's position as a uniquely appealing destination for both leisure and business.

* Offering luxuriously appointed meeting and event space, including a grand exhibit hall, two elegant ballrooms, and finely appointed meeting and board rooms, the complex is expected to draw more than 150,000 new guests to Lancaster each year.


Offering significant historical and cultural context, the complex incorporates historic structures and narratives within and around its own new architecture.

* The venue is a key site of Pennsylvania's Quest for Freedom trail, which honors the sites and stories of the African American journey to freedom from the time of the Underground Railroad and Civil War to the present day.

* Eventually the overall project, which from inception held a vision of incorporating the unique historical fabric of Lancaster, will offer a 20,000-square-foot, $20-million interactive museum, the Stevens & Smith Historic Site (see www.stevensandsmith.org for additional compelling background).

* Under the leadership of the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County (HPT), a water-collection cistern was unearthed and preserved during construction that had once been part of the Kleiss Tavern owned by influential Congressman and abolitionist Thaddeus Stevens.

* In the Vine Street entrance area to the facility, guests will behold a view of the preserved cistern, believed by scholars and archeologists to have been a hiding place used to assist Americans escaping slavery along the Underground Railroad.


The opening of this facility represents a brand new chapter for Lancaster as a destination, in the context of the community's long history of economic and cultural success.

* Lancaster offers an unmatched blend of historical context, unique tradition, and friendly urban sophistication.

* Lancaster is an exceptionally sound choice as a destination for meeting planners, providing significant merit compared to larger and more expensive urban areas.


Offering Lancaster's newest restaurant and lounge, the Penn Square Grille and Rendezvous Lounge presents a memorable menu and a special gathering place.

* This gathering place celebrates connections -- to a region through its offering of fresh local bounty, to a city via remarkable presence on Penn Square and to a treasured past with the reemergence of this landmark setting.

* The menu at the Penn Square Grille will feature regionally inspired, seasonal American cuisine with seafood highlights.

* The hand-selected wine list is abundantly inclusive of California wines, comprehensive across diverse tastes and occasions, and offers 30 selections by the glass.

PDF: FactSheetOpeningEvents.pdf

June 16, 2009

New Penn Square Grille and Rendezvous Lounge Opening Soon

LANCASTER, Pa. (June 16, 2009) - Lancaster's newest restaurant and lounge, Penn Square Grille and Rendezvous Lounge, opening late spring, highlights the celebration of connections -- to a region through its offering of fresh local bounty, to a city via remarkable presence on Penn Square and to a treasured past with the reemergence of this landmark setting. The menu, decor and service align to service a broad market with approachable style.

The menu at the Penn Square Grille, memorable in both design and content, will feature regionally inspired, seasonal American cuisine with seafood highlights. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week, the restaurant will showcase fresh Lancaster County ingredients such as chicken, herbs, greens, and cheeses. A sneak peek at the menu reveals mouth-watering dishes and intricate creations including:

Appetizers:

Promised Land Farm Tomato Tartlet
House made mozzarella & heirloom tomato atop puff pastry with mini greens and drizzle of aged balsamic

Kennett square Mushroom trio
Chef hand picked mushrooms, stuffed with central market fennel sausage, tempura crusted, bruschetta style

Lollipop Lamb Chops
Crusted with fresh herbs and mustard, with mint relish

Entrees:

Day Boat Scallops
Atop creamy smoked ham and pea polenta, finished in a tomato butter sauce

Maryland Crab Three Way
Crab cake with crispy soft shell and summer crab salad

Half Roasted Free Range Chicken
Eberly farms organic Roasted chicken with a chicken glace and summer vegetables, longs horse radish whipped potatoes

Eastern Shore Cioppino
A blend of fresh ocean fish, gulf shrimp, mussels, and tender leek, fennel and saffron in a fresh tomato sauce with toasted grana padana cheese croustade

Desserts:
Watt & Shand Sundaes
Throw back sundaes with house-made soft-serve vanilla ice cream, choose from hot chocolate and brownie or strawberry and pecan

Apple Tart
Flakey puff pastry layered with tender caramelized apple and topped with local ice cream

"We want to be the dining choice for both visitors and locals, whether as a result of spontaneity or advanced planning for romantic escapes, business dinners or evenings of good food shared with friends," says CIA-trained Restaurant Chef Bob Rothfus. Chesapeake Life Magazine featured Rothfus in its "Top Five Up and Comers." Rothfus has also been featured in Washington Post, Wine Spectator, Southern Living, Lancaster Magazine and more.

The comfortably elegant experience emphasizes the grill and incorporates local farm-to-table bounty served with exceptional service, all set amidst the energetic charm of the Downtown. Both bar and restaurant are designed to take full advantage of their noteworthy presence on historic Penn Square and reflect the elegance of the boldly reused Beaux-Arts facade of the former Watt & Shand department store. Glorious floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, and distinctive decor provide a counterpoint of contemporary flair to the surrounding history.

The modern 92-seat restaurant provides an additional glass-encased, 12-seat private dining room with a prominent wine wall just adjacent to the expansive, 54-seat Rendezvous Lounge. The warm, carefully illuminated interior conveys refined style and comfort with polished dark wood millwork, custom designed banquettes and gracious seating. Inventive subdued lighting further enlivens the space, playing off unfinished brick and stainless steel. Golden light accentuates niches in the walls and burst from behind opaque glass panels on the bar back and embedded within the banquettes and stairs.

Once seated at the bar, guests will have their choice of interesting views, ranging from a flat-screen television monitor to the festive happy-hour crowd. Stainless chalices at the bar counter will brim with chipped ice and bottles of white wine. Revelers will enjoy a platter of Calamari and Rock Shrimp Tempura paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc in sophisticated stemware ordered from the inventive bar menu.

The extensive wine list is abundantly inclusive of California wines, with more than 100 expertly chosen bottles. Selections range from easy drinking to premium select, with 29 wines offered by the glass. The list represents a diversity of selection and price points for every taste and occasion.

Signature martini cocktails, both classic and contemporary, arrive complete with custom martini picks and olive dishes -- making the expected very special and fun. Unique snifters are offered for the wide selection of whiskies and scotches, ranging from mainstream to hard-to-find. Upscale local microbrews and exciting non-alcoholic options round out the beverage experience.

"We can't wait to unveil the new Penn Square Grille and The Rendezvous Lounge and introduce Chef Bob to the community," said Josh Nowak, director of sales and marketing for Interstate Hotels, which manages the restaurant. "This asset brings one more unique and exceptional dining experience to the already venerable selection in the Lancaster area," he said. "The experience will be unmatched in light of its remarkable connections to the community, the fresh local bounty, and the history of the downtown."

Guests will enjoy warm and professional service from a well-informed and knowledgeable staff. Valet parking is available, and self-parking will be validated for restaurant and lounge patrons. Both the restaurant and lounge have entrances directly from the street.

To experience the new Penn Square Grille, visit www.pennsquaregrille.com or call 717-207-4033.

PDF: 20090616LCCC_PR.pdf

June 12, 2009

Opening Events Planned for Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square

LANCASTER, Pa. (June 12, 2009) - The Lancaster County Convention Center Authority and Penn Square Partners are pleased to announce:

1. A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will take place Thursday, June 18, at 10 a.m. to celebrate the opening of The Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center facility and honor project stakeholders. The brief ceremony, to be held at the lobby entrance on Penn Square, is open to the public.

2. Additionally, an Open House is scheduled for Sunday, June 21, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; members of the public are encouraged to attend this event. There will be an opportunity for members of the public to tour the facility.

The integrated facility is scheduled to open for business on June 19. The first large-scale use of the facility will be the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities 110th Annual Convention, which will bring more than 500 people to Lancaster beginning June 22. The convention is scheduled for June 24-26.

The landmark $174-million integrated facility, located on historic Penn Square in downtown Lancaster, Pa., is considered by many to be one of the most important regional economic development initiatives in decades.

"These celebratory events represent an exciting milestone in the launch of a facility that will welcome visitors to Lancaster and provide an incomparable gathering place with ties to our community's treasured past at this landmark setting," said Nevin Cooley, president of Penn Square Partners.

Kevin R. Molloy, executive director of the Lancaster County Convention Center Authority, owner of the convention center, added, "We are ready to open this world-class integrated facility with its unparalleled amenities, surrounded by a friendly historic urban downtown that offers a sophistication that is Lancaster, Pa."

PDF: 20090612LCCC_PR.pdf

June 10, 2009

Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center Scheduled to Open June 19

Lancaster, PA (June 10, 2009) - Penn Square Partners (PSP) and the Lancaster County Convention Center Authority (LCCCA) are pleased to announce that the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center facility is scheduled to open for business on June 19. In light of the opening date, events celebrating the launch of the facility are being planned, including a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on June 18. Additional details will be announced in the coming days.

Employee training began June 1 and the certificate of occupancy was received on June 5. Interstate Hotels, which manages the operation of the integrated facility, is directing the final preparations for opening in order to welcome and serve guests.

The first large-scale use of the facility will be the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities 110th Annual Convention, which will bring more than 500 people to Lancaster beginning June 22. The convention is scheduled for June 24-26.

"We are eager for the opening of the doors to this unique facility. It will be another driver in the economic vitality of Lancaster," said Art Morris, Chairman of the Lancaster County Convention Center Authority.

Nevin Cooley, President of Penn Square General Corporation, added, "As one of the project leaders, we are grateful for the continued support and patience of everyone who was affected by the construction delay during this home stretch to achieve opening. We have every confidence that the facility will exceed expectations and make Lancaster just as proud of the facility as we are of Lancaster," Cooley said.

The new venue, which anchors historic Penn Square, offers abundant space for groups ranging in size from 5 to 5,000 people, with more than 90,000 square feet of flexible meeting space including a convention and exhibition hall, two grand ballrooms, and several finely appointed meeting and board rooms.

Expansive windows offer an infusion of natural light and extraordinary views onto the Downtown. In the 300-room hotel portion of this integrated facility, meeting attendees will find all the amenities commanded by the Marriott name, including 37-inch LCD high-def screens, smart plug-and-play system for connecting laptops to TVs, and luxurious pillow-top bedding.
Additional information is available at www.marriottlancaster.com and www.lancasterconventioncenter.com.

PDF: 20090610LCC_PR.pdf

April 17, 2009

Andrew Kuster Named Executive Banquet Chef at Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott

The new Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square recently named Andrew Kuster as the executive banquet chef. Kuster is responsible for overseeing menu development and food preparation for banquets and other catered
events involving large groups at the convention center and hotel. The integrated facility has a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, scheduled to open in Spring 2009. Kuster currently resides in Lancaster, Pa. (www.lancasterconventioncenter.com, www.lancastermarriott.com).

PDF: LCCC-Kuster release.pdf

April 2, 2009

Jenn Schram Named Director of Revenue Management at Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott

The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square recently named Jenn Schram as director of revenue management. Schram is responsible for identifying and maximizing all potential revenue opportunities for the convention center and 300-room hotel with a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, scheduled to open in Spring 2009. Schram currently resides in New Cumberland, Pa. (www.lancasterconventioncenter.com, www.lancastermarriott.com).

PDF: JennSchramPersonnel.pdf

February 23, 2009

Melissa Watro Named Catering Sales Manager at Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott

The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square recently named Melissa Watro as catering sales manager. She will be responsible for the solicitation, procurement & management of catering operations at the convention center and the adjoining 300-room hotel with a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, scheduled to open in Spring 2009. Melissa currently resides in Lancaster, Pa. (www.lancasterconventioncenter.com, www.lancastermarriott.com).

PDF: Personnel Watro.pdf

February 12, 2009

Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square Announces Steven Goris as Director of Food and Beverage

The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square recently announced Steven Goris as director of food and beverage. His responsibilities include overseeing all food operations for the integrated facility, the convention center and the adjoining 300-room hotel, a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, scheduled to open in Spring 2009. Goris is relocating to the Lancaster, Pa., area (www.lancasterconventioncenter.com).

PDF: Personnel Goris.pdf

February 12, 2009

Lancaster County Convention Center To Host Lancaster Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Dinner

The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square has been selected as the venue for the much-anticipated Lancaster Chamber of Commerce and Industry's 137th Annual Dinner to be held in Freedom Hall on Tuesday, May 26, 2009. With nearly 2,500 people expected, this will be the largest dinner function booked to date at the new convention center, which opens in April
(www.lancasterconventioncenter.com).

PDF: Chamber of Commerce Dinner.pdf

October 30, 2008

Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square Names Jacyn Thompson Sales Manager

The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square has recently named Jacyn Thompson as sales manager. His responsibilities include sales for the integrated facility of both the convention center and the adjoining 300-room hotel, a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, scheduled to open in Spring 2009. Thompson resides in Mountville, Penn., in Lancaster County. (www.lancasterconventioncenter.com).

PDF: Jacyn Thompson.pdf

October 14, 2008

Certified Meeting Professional Designation Awarded to Lancaster County Convention Center Sales Manager

The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square proudly announce Sarah Heath's designation as a Certified Meeting Professional. As the foremost certification of the meetings, conventions and exhibitions industry, the CMP program recognizes individuals who have achieved the industry's highest standard of professionalism. Heath's responsibilities as sales manager include sales and meeting management for the integrated facility of the convention center and the adjoining 300-room hotel, a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, scheduled to open in March 2009 (www.lancasterconventioncenter.com).

PDF: LCCC Sarah Heath CMP.pdf

October 1, 2008

New Lancaster County Convention Center and Marriott Lancaster at Penn Square Celebrates Ceremonial "Topping Off"

The Lancaster County Convention Center (LCCC) and Marriott Lancaster at Penn Square is conducting a ceremonial "Topping Off" event at 11:00 a.m. on Oct. 1, 2008, at its construction site. This new $170 million integrated facility is a major force in the revitalization of downtown Lancaster, Pa., and is one of the most important regional economic development initiatives in decades.

PDF: LCCC Topping Off.pdf

July 18, 2008

New Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square Crowns City Emergence

The Lancaster County Convention Center (LCCC) and
Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square, the $170 million cornerstone to the revitalization of
downtown Lancaster, Pa., are the most important regional economic development undertaking
in decades. The new, integrated facility of both the convention center and adjoining 300-room
hotel, representing a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, are currently being built
within the façade of the historic Watt & Shand department store site. Unique from traditional
northeast meeting locations, Lancaster blends the convenience of being centrally located to
the metropolitan cities of Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and New York,
with quiet sophistication. Both the convention center and hotel are scheduled to open in March
2009

PDF: LCCC_Marriott Announcement.pdf

July 13, 2008

Lancaster County Convention Center Expands Sales Team

The Lancaster County Convention Center and Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square has recently hired Andee Cornelius as director of group sales, as well as Sarah Heath and Lyndsay Quino as sales managers. Their responsibilities include sales for the integrated facility of both the convention center and the adjoining 300-room hotel, a combined 90,000 square feet of meeting space, scheduled to open in March 2009.
(www.lancasterconventioncenter.com).

PDF: LCCC_personnell_release.pdf

June 24, 2008

Removal of facade stabilization structure is underway at Marriott Lancaster at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center

- Dismantling of the facade stabilization structure at the Marriot Lancaster at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center site is underway and expected to be completed by mid July, at which point work will begin to rehabilitate the facade to its former glory.

- This construction milestone is being completed now that the facade has been successfully reattached to the new structure in place behind it.

- The facade stabilization removal work is being performed by Caldwell, Heckles & Egan, a Lancaster, Pa.-based firm. See www.cheinc.com for more information.

- The removal of the steel stabilization will uncover the late 19th Century Watt & Shand Building facade, a Beaux Arts-style icon of the city's diverse architectural heritage.

- The facade was designed by C. Emlen Urban, Lancaster's first native professional architect. See the following link for more information about Urban: www.co.lancaster.pa.us/lancastercity/cwp/view.asp ?A=869&Q=549937.

- The facade comprises brick, limestone, and terra cotta.

- The facade rehabilitation work will be performed by Camp Hill, Pa.-based Caretti Inc., one of the largest and most respected masonry companies in the Mid Atlantic Region. See www.carettimasonry.com for more information.

- The facade will be rehabilitated as closely as possible to its original look, using many of the same materials that were used in the past. All original openings in the facade - windows and entryways - will remain intact and be incorporated into the new facility.

- The Watt & Shand Building had been vacant since the 1995 departure of The Bon-Ton Department Store.