gather in good company

We all know that the economy and its woes have had an effect on the meetings industry. I'm wondering, now that we are in the throes of the summer conference season, what is actually being experienced on the front lines? Have venues found smaller group numbers, scaled back meals or catering services, less frills in extra-curricular activities.  What exactly are you seeing as your busy, summer meeting and conference season progresses?  How are planners compensating for their need to cut back and how are they managing the expectations and perceptions of their attendees?  

I'm sure you are seeing a combination of things being enacted on the part of the meeting planner. I think it would be interesting to hear your stories, observations and outlooks.