Outside of Akron, Summit County is filled with other notable attractions. MAPS Air Museum is a center for aviation history. Hale Farm & Village is a living history museum where visitors explore 19th-century life in Ohio. MGM Northfield Park features over 1,600 gaming machines, live harness racing, diverse dining options, and live performances. For a unique way to experience the CVNP, take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy Summit Metro Parks, with 16 parks and over 150 miles of trails throughout the county. THE JOHN S. KNIGHT CENTER The John S. Knight Center distinguishes itself in the competitive convention marketplace through strategic location, versatile facilities, and attentive service, elements that have become increasingly important as meeting planners’ expectations evolve in response to changing business travel patterns. “We listen to our meeting planners and decision makers about what they’re looking for in this continuously evolving industry,” says Mervis. “Location and accessibility are key. Being within 500 miles of 50% of the U.S. population, with turnpike and expressway accessibility complemented by our airport partner just 20 minutes from downtown, makes us attractive to planners when they’re deciding where to host their trade show or convention.” While most convention centers offer similar physical infrastructure, the JSK Center differentiates itself through technological capabilities and staff expertise.“Most convention centers are made up of walls. What makes the difference is accessibility to technical attributes and staff who can help with that technology,” Mervis notes.“We’re extremely fortunate to have our culinary team in-house, which allows our chef to apply his creativity and passion for the best experience.” Sustainability initiatives further enhance the JSK Center’s appeal. “We’ve developed a farm-to-table program outside the building where we grow herbs and plants that our culinary team uses when preparing meals for groups ranging from 25 to 1,500 people,” explains Mervis.“We also partner with Reworks, a local countywide organization, to offer full zero-waste events in the building.” The JSK Center maintains strong relationships with local hotels to ensure favorable accommodation arrangements for attendees. “Our hotel partners work really well with us on room blocks with low attrition clauses, which I know is important to meeting planners,” Mervis adds. These operational strengths, combined with continuous investment in facility upgrades and technological infrastructure, 54 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 05
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