In late July, Starwood hosted an event for insurance and financial services planners at the St. Regis Hotel, New York. Guests enjoyed a tabletop trade show and reception at the gorgeous St. Regis Roof, filled with the Beaux-Arts architectural detailing that makes the 1904 landmark building a standout. The reception was followed by an unforgettable dinner boat cruise on the Romantica yacht. The highlight: watching a spectacular fireworks display in front of the Statue of Liberty.

Educational sessions included Duncan Kennedy, senior manager, meetings product development, on Starwood's online initiatives (see item, above). Also, Alynne Hanford, national sales manager, group and meeting travel, American Airlines, updated attendees on the latest developments in the turbulent airlines industry, and Regina Baraban, editor, Insurance Conference Planner magazine, spoke about future developments with ICP (see Editor's Note, page 8).