Conference looks to boost U.P. tourism

Upper Peninsula regional businesses who would like to help their employees put out the welcome mat for visitors and customers who live in the area, may be interested in the Uppertunities professional development, business and tourism strategies conference Wednesday, May 22, at the Island Resort and Casino.

In a press release, Vickie Micheau, executive director of the Delta Commerce Center , said the conference has been designed for both tourism and non-tourism businesses based on feedback from those who attended last year’s conference. 

“We are now focusing on professional development, and not only for tourism-based industry. This one-day conference will help companies that are hoping to improve customer service and help employees become more positive and service-oriented,” Micheau said.

Several breakout sessions will be offered throughout the day, focusing on best practices. “These sessions have always received extremely high marks. This year’s offerings will offer great information for all types of business people and their employees,” Micheau said.

The keynote speaker during lunch will be Dave Lorenz, who will speak on “Leverage the Success.” Lorenz is manager of Public & Industry Relations for Travel Michigan/Michigan Economic Development Corp.

Another highlight of the daylong event is the community showcase featuring successful business attractions and events from throughout the U.P. and best practice roundtables.

“This is an important aspect of the conference. Successful business people and leaders discuss tried and true success stories and real-life examples of how to set goals, overcome obstacles to create successful business plans,” Micheau said.

The event will open with an optional golf outing on May 21 and close with Business After Hours 5 p.m. May 22 at the Convention Center, which is open to all attendees and Chamber members.

Conference co-sponsors are the Commerce Center, Michigan Works! the Job Force Board, Delta County Economic Development Alliance, UPWard Initiative, UPTRA, Marquette Country Convention and Visitors Bureau, Bays de Noc Country Convention and Visitors Bureau, and MSU Extension.

Conference tickets are $59 and include continental breakfast and lunch. Those wishing to present at the showcase and trade show are charged $99, and that includes one ticket to all conference workshop sessions. Golf scramble is $49, including 18 holes of golf, cart, and food and beverages on the course.

For more information about the conference or to register, contact 906-786-2192. Registration may also be done on line at www.deltami.org.