Carolina Blitz August - September 2014
business EXCHANGE
MPI Carolinas Chapter Business Exchange September 18 & 19, 2014 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park Durham, North Carolina
Thursday, September 18, 2014: 3:00pm - 4:15pm “Concession Confessions” 4:30pm - 6:00pm Business Exchange 6:00pm - 8:00pm Carolina MIX & Mingle
Brittany O’Shaughnessy Helping Hand Winner Friday, September 19, 2014:
Page 10 7:30am - 9:00am Breakfast & Business Exchange 9:00am - 10:15am "What Are They Thinking” - Kelly Bagnall
The way business gets done has changed...and so have we! Lack of Stress in Breath Suppliers
Planners
Change
Join your colleagues — suppliers and
Want good, solid, fundamental education
planners alike in this unique, new, and
that deals with what you do on a daily
innovative Business Exchange
format.
basis? Want an environment created to
Carolinas have seen in some time.
meeting destinations or services? Look
Several vendor spots are still open, so
no further than the MPI-CC Business
A Book stimulate Every MPI Member This event is slated to be one of the the exchange of new ideas and Should premier and most innovative events the spark creativity? Need ideasRead! for new don’t
DoubleTree by Hilton Raleigh-Durham Airport at RTP miss your opportunity to reach Exchange. Designed with planners in Durham, North Carolina | September 28-29, 2014
planners from the corporate, association,
mind, this event will deliver in helping you
and education fields in an engaging and
gain a lot of knowledge in a short amount
© 2014 Pinehurst, LLC
Meetings were held here long before clubs. Pinehurst may be known for twosomes and foursomes, but we were welcoming groups of all sizes before our first golf course was ever built. We’ve been hosting successful meetings and events for companies large and small since 1895. And we’d love to host yours. Consider Pinehurst for your next corporate function. You’ll find our meetings as legendary as our golf.
Kimberly Bryan, Senior Director of National Accounts Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina • 910.235.8732 • pinehurst.com 14PNH163.CarolinaMPIAugSeptAd.indd 1
7/29/14 9:55 AM
in this issue...
features Lack of Stress in Breath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 A Book Every MPI Member Should Read!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19
in every issue Our Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 New Member Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Helping Hand Award Winner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Look Who We Spotted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15
ElenaMirage/iStock/ThinkStock
MPI-CC Board of Directors Meeting Highlights . . . . . . . . . . 20
Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
1
Carolina Blitz The Carolina Blitz is the official publication of the Carolinas Chapter of Meeting Professionals International and is published every other month. All contributions, articles, and photographs should be submitted to Director of Publications/Editor one week after the meeting. Ginny Fountain, CMP - Ginny.Fountain@ncemcs.com EDITORIAL AND NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE Director of Publications Laura Barnes, CMP • Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort Editor Ginny Fountain, CMP • North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives Contributing Writers Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE, Greater Raleigh CVB; Jeanette Keys, Greenville Convention Center; Colleen Schwoerke, CMP, PlanIt Right; Brittany O’Shaughnessy, Francis Marion Hotel; Connie Hayes, Student; Corey Bizzell, Durham CVB; Kevin Snyder, Ed.D., Inspir-Active Solutions; Lindsay Myers, Caesars Entertainment Photographer Mica Parekh – IWP Photography Proofreaders Kathy Flowe, CMP, Alabama Theatre; Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office; Cathy Mauldin, CMP, DESA, Inc.; Melanie O’Bryan, Biltmore; Teresa Palmieri, Sheraton Imperial; Myron Jones, Fayetteville CVB Publisher Vince Chelena • The Management Office 704-377-5648 • Fax 704-333-6927 • staff@themanagementoffice.com Advertising Amy Johnson • Courtyard by Marriott, Carolina Beach Oceanfront and Fairfield Inn & Suites, Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach • 910-458-2617 Design Kistin Jordan • Kistin Jordan [Graphic Designer] • 704-724-9188 MPI-CC Web Site: www.mpi-cc.org
Find yourself in good company in Greenville, NC Meetings executives find themselves well attended to in Greenville, North Carolina. Planners enjoy unmatched event services and visitors find themselves the absolute center of attention in our two hospitality areas: the newly-expanded facilities of the Convention Center District, and the Uptown Greenville District hub for dining, arts and recreation opportunities. Point your meetings in our direction. You won’t find better company!
GREENVILLE-PITT COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
www.visitgreenvillenc.com • 800-537-5564
ADVERTISING RATES AND DEADLINES AD SIZE FREQUENCY MEMBER NON-MEMBER RATE RATE Quarter Page 1X $220 $290 (3 1/2”W x 4 3/4”H) 3X $200/issue $270/issue 6X $160/issue $230/issue Half Page Horizontal 1X $420 $550 (7 1/4”W x 4 3/4”H) 3X $400/issue $530/issue 6X $360/issue $490/issue Half Page Vertical 1X $420 $550 (3 1/2”W x 9 1/2”H) 3X $400/issue $530/issue 6X $360/issue $490/issue Full Page 1X $640 $840 (7 1/2”W x 9 1/2”H) 3X $620/issue $820/issue 6X $580/issue $780/issue Full Page Insert 1X $700/issue $910/issue 3X $680/issue $890/issue 6X $640/issue $850/issue (Produced and provided by advertiser) There are 6 issues of the Blitz published yearly FEB/MAR, APR/MAY, JUNE/JULY, AUG/SEPT, OCT/NOV, DEC/JAN NOTE: Rates are published as of January 2011 and are subject to change without notice. All published rates are net non-commisionable. Any cost incurred by the BLITZ for art that is not fully press ready (e.g. reductions, halftones) will be billed to the advertiser, or art that is not press ready may be refused. DUE DATE: Due by the 15th of the month prior to publication. Artwork is due to the publisher within 10 days after deadline for space reservations. SEND MATERIALS TO: Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office, 1800 Camden Road, Suite 107, #213, Charlotte, NC 28203 Christine@TheManagementOffice.com • Fax: 704-333-6927 For more advertising information contact Amy Johnson at amy.johnson@crestlinehotels.com or 910-458-2617. Visit our website at www.mpi-cc.org for additional advertising and sponsorship opportunities!
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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
our members Welcome New Members! Mary Rachel Bowling
James Montague
Jacqueline Carlock Ward
One Eleven Place
Professional Meeting Planners Network
UNC School of Law
maryrachelb@rrar.com
jmontague@pmpn.com
cleassistant@yahoo.com
Christie Buckley
Scott Mumma
Dana Ciccarelli
Visit Baltimore
PSAV
The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf
cbuckley@baltimore.org
smumma@psav.com
Resort & Spa
Julie Collins
Jeanette Paschal
Renaissance Asheville Hotel
Sound Meetings & Event
Lu Ann DeBolt
julie.collins@wcghotels.com
Management, LLC
Dontar
jpaschal@soundmeetings.com
luann.debolt@domtar.com
The American Board of
Keva Washington
Julie Drazdik
Anesthesiology
Columbia Metropolitan Convention &
LPL Financial
cvcook23@gmail.com
Visitors Bureau
julie.drazdik@lpl.com
dana.ciccarelli@westin.com
Caitlyn Cook
kwashington@columbiacvb.com Marie Dalis
Kelli Liles
The Brice, a Kimpton Hotel
Karen Wooten
Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.
marie.dalis@bricehotel.com
Columbia Metropolitan
Kelli.Liles@odfl.com
Convention Center Aundrea Hopkins
kwooten@
Farrah Staub
AFR Furniture Rental &
columbiaconventioncenter.com
Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley
Event Furnishings
farrah.staub@concordhotels.com
ahopkins@rentfurniture.com
MPI-CC Anniversaries 20 years John Cruz, CMM Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina 15 years Kay Grant, CMP Time Warner Cable Karen Knox, CMP, CMM Allscripts Tracie Panko The Carolina Inn
5 years Mary Harris New Bern / Craven County CVC Congratulations to each of you for reaching a milestone in MPI!
September 18-19 September Chapter Meeting Durham, NC DoubleTree by Hilton Raleigh-Durham Airport at RTP Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
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MPI-CC THANKS OUR ANNUAL SPONSORS! We Appreciate Your Support! Diamond Sponsor:
Gold Sponsors:
Silver Sponsors:
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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
president’s message
The LIVING LEGACY….30 years and counting by Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE
Do you ever ask yourself, where has the time gone? Thirty years ago Lebron James and Katy Perry were only household names to their new parents. People were lining up for the premier of popular movies: Karate Kid, Purple Rain, Foot Loose, Revenge of the Nerds and Who you gonna call???....GHOSTBUSTERS! Are you with me on this trip down memory lane? Bruce Springsteen had released his famous “Born in the USA” album. Apple released the first MAC Computer and the Carolinas Chapter of Meeting Professionals International was born. In the midst of Mr. Miyagi and fighting ghost with green slimy goo…a star began to shine brightly in the meetings community of the Carolinas. Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE, Associate Director of Sales, Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau; 2014-2015 MPI-CC President
Our founding members, including our first President, Nancy Holder, created the Living Legacy that we see today, MPI-Carolinas Chapter. Often, when we think of the word legacy, thoughts of people or ideas that are no longer around come to mind, but it simply means anything handed down from the past. Some of our founding members are still living the legacy of MPICC, they serve the members of the Carolinas Chapter promoting professionalism, educational opportunities and living by the highest code of ethics. Within the last 30 years the membership numbers have grown, but the core values have remained the same. In order for our legacy to thrive, we have to evolve to meet the needs of our diverse membership. Our Board of Directors has continued on the path of growth for our Chapter by asking the membership what they want for the future, through focus groups, surveys and one-on-one conversations. Everyone can contribute to the future of our Chapter. If you are reading this message, YOU are the key to a lifelong legacy. Let your voice be heard! There are many ways that you can help cultivate the growing MPI Carolinas Culture. You can continue the Living Legacy: • With a quick email or phone call to the Board of Directors to suggest, Speakers, Educational Topics, Meeting Designs and more • Lead by example, uphold the Code of Ethics • Mentor - share words of wisdom that have helped you along the way • Be active, Volunteer LIVE THE LEGACY…30 YEARS AND COUNTING n
Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
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MPI-CC 2014-2015 Board of Directors and Committees EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President
Vice President of Education
Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE
Barbara Dragan
Greater Raleigh CVB
The Westin Charlotte
919-645-2668
704-335-2114
mharrell@visitraleigh.com
Barbara.Dragan@westin.com
President-Elect
Vice President of Finance
Christian Schroeder
Alyce Kelly, CHSP
Visit Winston-Salem
Hampton Inn Morehead City
336-728-4218
252-240-0775
Christian@visitwinstonsalem.com
alyce.kelly@hilton.com
Vice President of Administration
Vice President of Membership
Colleen Schwoerke, CMP
Tarshi McCoy, TMP
PlanIt Right
DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern
919-808-1902
Riverfront
colleen@planit-right.com
252-638-0304 tarshi.mccoy@hilton.com
Vice President of Communication
Immediate Past President
Corey Bizzell
Erin Moye
Durham CVB
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
919-680-8315
919-313-2160
corey@durham-cvb.com
emoye@wdigc.com
DIRECTORS Awards/Recognition
Strategic Partnerships
Lindsay Myers
Amy Johnson
Caesars Entertainment
Courtyard by Marriott
919-628-8836
at Carolina Beach
lmyers1@caesars.com
910-458-2617 amy.johnson@crestlinehotels.com
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Marketing/Community Outreach
Meeting Planning
Alison Jenkins
Lori Hedrick, MHA, CMM, CMP
The Umstead Hotel & Spa
Burroughs Wellcome Fund
919-447-4122
919-991-5105
Alison.Jenkins@theumstead.com
lhedrick@bwfund.org
| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
DIRECTORS (continued) Auctions
Education
Diane Weems
Tonya Miller
NC Aggregates Association
Embassy Suites Greensboro-Airport
919-782-7055
336-668-4535
Diane@ncaggregates.org
tonya.miller@jqh.com
Exhibits
Publications
Karolyn Stone, CHSP, CMP
Laura Barnes, CMP
Marriott Columbia
Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort
803-744-6922
843-341-8010
Karolyn.stone@marriottcolumbia.com
lbarnes@omnihotels.com
Membership
Management Office
Jeanette Keys
Christine Irwin, CMP
Greenville Convention Center
The Management Office
252-321-7671
704-377-5648
jkeys@greenvilleconventioncenter.com
Christine@themanagementoffice.com
COMMITTEES Scholarship Liz Guertin Visit Winston-Salem 336-728-4231 liz@visitwinstonsalem.com Silent Auction Kathy Flowe, CMP Alabama Theatre 843-272-5758 kflowe@alabama-theatre.com Trade Show Dr. Kevin Snyder Inspir-Active Solutions, Inc. 919-633-9931 kevin@kevincsnyder.com Education Stephen Valliere Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa 904-813-3307 svalliere@ sawgrassmarriott.com
Hospitality Gloria Refinati ON Event Services 336-292-9700 grefinati@ oneventservices.com
Publications Ginny Fountain, CMP NC Association of Electric Cooperatives 919-875-3050 ginny.fountain@ncemcs.com
Recruitment Kimberly Harrelson Kingsmill Resort 757-253-3980 Kimberly.harrelson@ kingsmill.com
Meeting Planning Molly Nelson Spartanburg Marriott 864-591-3113 Molly.Nelson@marriott.com
Membership (Co-Chairs) Melissa Riggle New Bern-Craven County CVC 800-437-5767 mriggle@cravencountync.gov Rick Cammer The Ballantyne Hotel 704-248-4033 rcammer@ theballantynehotel.com
Leadership & Volunteer Development Alison Harding, CMP Global Knowledge 919-461-8698 Alison.Harding@ globalknowledge.com CMP (Co-Chairs) Sarah Sharkey, CMP Ernst & Young LLP Sarah.sharkey@ey.com
Amelia Hodges, CMP North Carolina Association of CPAs 919-469-1040, ext. 8 ahodges@NCACPA.org Awards Wendy Bassett, CMP HelmsBriscoe 843-243-0554 wbassett@helmsbriscoe.com Strategic Partnerships Chair needed Marketing Sandi Owen Embassy Suites Columbia 803-744-8134 sandi.owen@jqh.com Community Outreach Chair needed
Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
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new member spotlight
New Member Spotlight: Lynn Rich by Jeanette Keys
Lynn Rich of Helms Briscoe, a former
best every day to live her ideals, be a positive influence, and
member of MPI in Florida, says
help others to help themselves.
that she joined MPI for educational opportunities, to stay on top of industry trends, and to meet associates in the industry. Lynn rejoined Helms Briscoe in January of 2014 as a Global Account Lynn Rich
Manager, after previously taking a break to work as a planner for a
medical device company in South Florida.
Lynn says that it is always a struggle to find a balance between her personal and professional life. She states that the flexibility of working with Helms Briscoe helps her with this challenge as she structures each day as she needs to. Lynn’s advice for people in or pursuing a career in the hospitality industry is to “Always keep in mind that it is the hospitality business. Our job is to take care of our guests and clients, put their minds at ease, and do a great job for them.
http://www.helmsbriscoe.com/associates/lrich
Not everyone enjoys that type of career, so think about
Lynn has an excellent understanding of both the Planner
Always act with integrity and professionalism. Get to know
and Supplier side of meeting planning and hospitality
people in all aspects of the industry. We can’t be experts
industries. She has worked as a Corporate Planner, a third
at everything and they easily become valuable partners,
party planner, a Conference Services Manager, and she has
resources, and friends.”
trying it in a minor position before jumping in completely.
n
also worked for a Destination Management Company. She understands the challenges her clients endure, including time and budget constraints. Lynn says if she could meet anyone, living or deceased,
Jeanette Keys Greenville Convention Center MPI-CC Director of Membership
it would be Oprah Winfrey. She says that Oprah does her
First Timers and New Members at the July Mixer
CALLING ALL WRITERS
Do you dream of being a published author? If so, the Blitz is looking for you! While we’re not the New York Times, getting published in the Blitz is a great way to share your ideas with fellow MPI-CC members and earn points toward your CMP certification. The Blitz is always accepting original articles and New Members:
Grace VandeVisser - Burlington/Alamance County CVB; Victoria Harris – Cempra Pharmaceuticals; Kelli Liles - Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc.; Caitlyn Cook - The ABA; Diane Patterson - UNCC
8
| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
great topic ideas. To submit your articles or ideas, please contact Ginny Fountain at Ginny.Fountain@ncemcs.com
SEA TRAIL RESORT END OF SUMMER SPECIAL - BUILD YOUR OWN MEETING PACKAGE $139.00 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT, ALL INCLUSIVE
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Complimentary • Meeting Room - classroom or conference style settings, with water station and mints • Wifi - internet access • Flip chart and markers for team building activities • Conference phone and line • Parking • Upgraded accommodations from a standard guest-room to a mini suite
Additional Information • Inquire about team building activities • Group Rate for attendees will be guaranteed up to seven days prior to the event • Preferred Tee Times for all attendees at any of our three on-site championship golf courses • Bike Rentals
OFFER IS ONLY AVAILABLE FOR MEETINGS BOOKED AUGUST THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2014 . MINIMUM OF 10 ROOMS REQUIRED 8/12/2014 10:09:05 AM
Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
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MPI-CC is proud to present the Helping Hand Award to Brittany O’Shaughnessy by Lindsay Myers
Brittany was nominated by Barbara Dragan, who wrote the following words about Brittany in her previous role as Education Committee Chair: Brittany had a passion for education and sharing great speakers and topics with our membership. She took on the responsibility as Chair of the Education committee without hesitation. She researched the topics by checking the speaker database with MPI to find that right speaker, receiving feedback about speakers, and determining if the speaker and topic would fit our members. She made sure that our members’ needs came first and that the speaker’s fees, etc., fell within MPI-CC’s budget. Also, before and after each chapter meeting, she submitted articles regarding the educational session for the Carolina Blitz. Her enthusiasm and desire to do her job correctly showed in everything she did. Congratulations, Brittany! Thank you for your dedication to MPI-CC! Brittany O’Shaughnessy Francis Marion Hotel
To nominate a fellow MPI-CC member for the Helping Hand Award, please email Lindsay Myers at lmyers1@caesars.com.
n
Lindsay Myers Caesars Entertainment MPI-CC Director of Awards & Recognition
Know a Helping Hand? Know anyone that has lent a helping hand? Committee Chairs, please nominate one of your members that has volunteered her time and efforts this month and thank her for helping to make your goal possible. Let me know who she is and how she went above and beyond for your committee. Please send nominations to Lindsay Myers at lmyers1@caesars.com
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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
THE LACK OF STRESS IN A BREATH IvanMikhaylov/iStock/Thinkstock
by Connie Hayes
We all work in some capacity or another, and we choose our work based on need, comfort, skill, money and desire.
• When reading or writing articles that inspire – Send it to someone who could use a lift.
Money can be a major factor for a job choice, but when you do what you love, it isn’t a job. Like other work forces, we
• It’s been that kind of week and you are looking forward
in the hospitality industry strive to do what we love. No
to tying up loose ends for a beautiful weekend. In
matter what our choice and reason, work will sometimes
your office sits a stack of papers labeled “urgent” and
come with some stress and a side of madness attached.
“immediately.” Take a deep breath and “Be like a postage stamp, stick to one thing until it is finished”…Rev. Run
There is a method to some of the madness. First, remember to breathe slowly, it allows that warm breath to touch each
• You missed a passing grade by two questions on your
nerve ending. Second, breathing slowly lowers your pulse
certification exam–Celebrate your try…Don’t give up--
rate and lessens your actions or reactions under stress.
there’s always a next time. Read something by Eckhart
When life feels heavier than usual, take a deep breath.
Tolle or Dr. Wayne Dyer.
You don’t need Wi-Fi for this, just connect with your breath. • There may be times when you feel like you are going it
The message is, don’t sweat the small stuff, especially when the situation is out of your hands. Take a quiet moment when it feels cloudy, because the sun will shine again. Breathe to reveal that enthusiastic and motivated manager of meetings and events that you are. n
alone – Write yourself a note and sprinkle it with Joy. • When the stress of your work day begins to bleed through by way of your voice or action – Slow your pace, sit quietly, inhale deeply and release a breath with a smile.
Connie Hayes Student at Central Piedmont Community College MPI-CC Publications Committee Member
Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
11
Look Who We Spotted at the...
...July Chapter Meeting in Cary! Photography by Mica Parekh – IWP Photography
education MPI-CC’s Education & Business Exchange, a NEW FORMAT for Tradeshow! by Kevin Snyder, Ed.D.
Formerly known as MPI-CC’s ‘Tradeshow,’ our newly formatted ‘Education & Business Exchange’ concept offers more networking and exposure opportunities than ever before specifically for meeting planners and service providers. Mark your calendar for September 18-19, 2014, at the Doubletree by Hilton Raleigh Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, and plan to experience ‘Southern Hospitality’ at its finest!
Y’all will not want to miss this incredibly welcoming event … with educational sessions, great speakers, one-on-one time with planners and suppliers, awards and prizes, multiple networking opportunities and much, much more! Secure both your meeting and hotel reservations by visiting www.mpi-cc.org. Register before September 5 and save $$! For questions about the ‘Business Exchange’, contact Karolyn Stone (karolyn.stone@marriottcolumbia. com) or Kevin Snyder (Kevin@KevinCSnyder.com).
As a vendor, there are several opportunities that will maximize your visibility for all meeting attendees. Rather than just one day of ‘Tradeshow’ exposure like before, we have extended the interaction time to two days as well as between Friday’s educational session. This exciting format will provide enhanced one-on-one networking time for meeting planners and suppliers throughout the entire meeting!
EVEN MORE! If you are seeking opportunities for additional marketing and promotion during our next meeting, consider being a sponsor for any of the following meeting openings: (2) Break Sponsors, (2) Program Sponsors and (1) Bag Sponsor. Inquire with Christine at the MPI-CC office (Christine@TheManagementOffice.com).
In addition to enhanced networking and building new relationships, there will be incredible prizes for meeting planners who visit with vendors during the Business Exchange. Incentive prizes include complimentary geta-ways in NC and SC (beaches and mountains), vacation packages and much more.
Kevin Snyder, Ed.D. Inspir-Active Solutions MPI-CC Trade Show Committee Chair
MPI Carolina Chapter Business Exchange Schedule Thursday, September 18th 3:00pm – 4:15pm
Educational Session: “Concession Confessions”
4:30pm – 6:00pm
Business Exchange
6:00pm
Carolinas MIX and Mingle
Friday, September 19th
14
7:30am – 9:00am
Networking… It’s What’s for Breakfast
9.00am - 10:15am
Educational Session: “What Are they Thinking/Contract Negotiations”
10:15am - 10:35am
Business Exchange
10:35am - 12:00pm
Educational Session: “How Did the Court Rule?”
12:00pm
Exhibitors break down
| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
business EXCHANGE
MPI Carolinas Chapter Business Exchange September 18 & 19, 2014 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park Durham, North Carolina
Thursday, September 18, 2014: 3:00pm - 4:15pm “Concession Confessions” 4:30pm - 6:00pm Business Exchange 6:00pm - 8:00pm Carolina MIX & Mingle Friday, September 19, 2014: 7:30am - 9:00am Breakfast & Business Exchange 9:00am - 10:15am "What Are They Thinking” - Kelly Bagnall (contract negotiations)
10:15am - 10:35am Business Exchange 10:35am -12:00pm "How Did the Court Rule"- Kelly Bagnall
The way business gets done has changed...and so have we! Suppliers
Planners
Join your colleagues — suppliers and
Want good, solid, fundamental education
planners alike in this unique, new, and
that deals with what you do on a daily
innovative Business Exchange
format.
basis? Want an environment created to
This event is slated to be one of the
stimulate the exchange of new ideas and
premier and most innovative events the
spark creativity?
Carolinas have seen in some time.
meeting destinations or services? Look
Several vendor spots are still open, so
no further than the MPI-CC Business
don’t miss your opportunity to reach
Exchange.
planners from the corporate, association,
mind, this event will deliver in helping you
and education fields in an engaging and
gain a lot of knowledge in a short amount
educational format.
of time for a very low cost.
Need ideas for new
Designed with planners in
For up to date i nform ati on vi si t us at www.mpi -cc. org OR fi nd us on Facebook! 1800 Camden Road Suite 107 #213, Charlotte, North Carolina 28203
WWW.MPI-CC.ORG
Dinic/iStock/Thinkstock
CHAN
16
| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
NGE
Is Inevitable. Is Necessary. Is Good.
Your MPI Carolinas Chapter is changing because it is necessary. In order to remain a relevant resource in the Carolinas meeting industry, it is imperative that we institute the necessary changes in order to keep our members educated, informed, engaged and satisfied. We’ve found changes that need to be made directly through our members. We received feedback in our Annual Member Needs Assessment, our Chapter Satisfaction Survey, EducationPlus and EducationLite Post Event Surveys, Roundtables, and from members who took the time to provide feedback on their own. All of this information is valuable to the Board of Directors and helps us be strategic about the ideas we implement going forward. Some of the changes you may have already noticed include going green – we are ridding ourselves of a lot of paper with the Carolina Blitz and through the use of our mobile meeting app. Now that the Carolina Blitz is an electronic magazine, it helps make us a more sustainable chapter, and it also allows the funds we would use to print and mail the Blitz to be redirected to education. Education is an area where you have told us you would like to see more growth. Our education team has taken a close look at our offerings. We heard what you said: that you wanted more education content based on what you do as planners. You will see more topics geared toward that in the coming months. The September Business Exchange Meeting is just that--plenty of good contract information and a very informative panel discussion with your peers regarding contracts and concessions. The Business Exchange (which is taking the place of our normal tradeshow), will better involve planners with suppliers. Everything is evolving. Lastly, please know that we have heard you on the meeting times and locations. We are working diligently to do more of the one-day meetings, like the first one in July at the Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, NC. This is the format our members have said they prefer. It will take some time to find the pattern and schedule that works for the Carolinas Chapter; but after all is said and done, we hope you will all be pleased. Some of our future events were already contracted and we cannot change them. However, please keep in mind that for these events, we are working to ensure they are full of content so you will not mind being out of the office overnight if your schedule permits. In the coming months, I will be writing more articles on the changes that are being implemented. If you have ideas or feedback, please email me at corey@durham-cvb.com or contact any of your board members.
Change takes time. Change is coming. Corey Bizzell Durham CVB MPI-CC Vice President of Communications Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
17
A Book Every MPI Member Should Read! Morgan_studio/iStock/ThinkStock
by Kevin Snyder, Ed.D.
I recently dusted off and read a book
Every successful person is someone who failed, yet never
that had been sitting ‘in que’ for quite
regarded him or herself as a failure:
some time. And, before even completing
• Someone told Wolfgang Mozart, one of the geniuses of
chapter one, I kicked myself for not
musical composition that his opera, The Marriage of Figaro,
reading this book years sooner. But
was “too noisy and contained too many notes.”
even finding time for pleasure is hard to do. Keeping your valuable time in
• Artist Vincent van Gogh only sold one painting during
mind as a precious resource, I wanted
his lifetime.
to capture some of the most powerful concepts in one of the most enlightening books I have
• Someone told Thomas Edison that he was unteachable
ever read – ‘Failing Forward’ by leadership expert John C.
as a young boy while he was the most prolific inventor in
Maxwell. Below is a shortened version of a longer book
history.
summary available on my website. (Link provided below.) • Someone told Albert Einstein, one of the greatest thought You might be wondering, “Why would I want to read a book
leaders who ever lived that he “would never amount to
about FAILURE? That sounds depressing!” On the surface,
much.”
I would agree with you; however, this concept of failing • One school expelled Author/Poet Edgar Allen Poe from
forward is really about learning how to maximize your
school for being ‘mentally slow.’
potential by overcoming whatever obstacles you are facing personally and professionally. For most of us, our defining
Think about the last time you failed at something. Did you
moments in life have resulted from adversity in some way.
stop trying because you failed, or did you fail because you
Failing forward, therefore, is the genesis of strength and
stopped trying? Paul Meyer says, “90% of all those who fail
leadership. Setbacks should be step-up’s! Failure is often the
were never actually defeated. They simply quit.” Effort only
price we must pay for success.
releases its reward after a person refuses to quit.
President Theodore Roosevelt said, “He who makes no
Success is not a destination or a place you wake up to one
mistakes makes no progress.” The difference between
day. Instead, you take the journey. Whether you succeed
average people and extraordinary people is their perception
or not comes from what you do day to day. In other
of, and response, to failure. NBA Coach Rick Pitino says,
words, success and every fulfilled dream occur because of
“Everything I’ve learned about coaching basketball I’ve
dedication to a process.
learned from making mistakes. It’s fertilizer.” Wolfgang Puck shares, “I learned more from the one restaurant that didn’t
The more you do, the more you fail.
work than from all the ones that were successes.” Failure is far more common than success, yet schools do not teach about failure. Rather, they teach about avoiding
The more you fail, the more you learn.
failure and not making mistakes. There is no surprise that most people see failure as the enemy and will avoid it like the plague. Unfortunately, that comfort zone mentality conditions our minds at an early age to not take risks. “When you don’t risk, you risk even more.”
The more you learn, the better you get.
“Fear makes come true that which one is afraid of.” ~ Viktor Frankl It takes adversity to create success. Kites rise highest against
To read more of the book summary, simply visit my website
the wind, not with it. An oak tree, one of the strongest trees
blog here!
on this planet, grows contrary to strong winds. A sailboat sails against the wind as well … I could keep going with
Alternatively, paste this link in your web browser:
other common examples. You get the point.
http://kevincsnyder.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/ Failing-Forward.doc n
In life, the question is not if you will have problems, but how you are going to deal with your problems. Are you going to fail forward or backward? Your life can change when you are
Kevin Snyder, Ed.D. Inspir-Active Solutions MPI-CC Trade Show Committee Chair
willing to look at failure differently. No matter what happens to you, the most important thing is what happens in you. It is not the size of the problem; it is how you handle the problem.
Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
19
board meeting highlights
Board of Directors Meeting Minutes July 17, 2014 | Cary, NC by Colleen Schwoerke, CMP
Attendees: Tarshi McCoy, TMP, Lindsay Myers, Lori
Meeting Planning: Lori Hedrick, MHA, CMM, CMP
Hedrick, MHA, CMM, CMP, Erin Moye, Malinda Harrell,
discussed meeting locations for 2015. The committee
CMP, CASE, Christian Schroeder, Tonya Miller, Barbara
did not get many responses from the RFP sent out and
Dragan, Diane Weems, Vince Chelena, Alyce Kelly, CHSP,
has nothing concrete to recommend at this time. The
Karolyn Stone, CHSP, CMP, Corey Bizzell, Christine Irwin,
committee is considering:
CMP, Alison Jenkins, Colleen Schwoerke, CMP
October 2014 – Breakfast Meeting in Greensboro
Excused Absences: Laura Barnes, CMP, Amy Johnson,
January 2015 – One day luncheon meeting in Raleigh/
Jeanette Keys
Triangle area at the PNC Arena, Rizzo Conference Center,
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order at 3:23 pm by Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE. Minutes: Colleen Schwoerke, CMP presented the minutes
or Carolina Inn February 2015 – Breakfast Meeting in Spartanburg/ Greenville
from the May 18, 2014 Board Meeting and made a motion to
March 2015– One day luncheon meeting in Charlotte at
approve.
Johnson & Wales or Le Meridien
Motion: Colleen Schwoerke, CMP made a motion to approve the May 18, 2014 Minutes as presented. Second: Karolyn Stone, CHSP, CMP Vote: Approved Financial Reports: Alyce Kelly, CHSP reported that the Chapter made $217 on the silent auction at this meeting. Alyce reported on the preliminary year-end financials. Our
April 2015 – Breakfast meeting in Durham May 2015 – Annual Meeting is contracted at the Charleston Marriott June 2015 – Breakfast Meeting in Crystal Coast Area September 2015 – Westin Hilton Head
CPA is still reviewing the year-end financials.
October 2015 - Charlotte at the Le Meridian
Chapter Office: Christine Irwin, CMP reported that there
November 2015 – Asheville
are around 95 attendees registered for this meeting. Our budgeted registration revenue was around 100 attendees.
The committee will have something more concrete at
Christine thanked everyone for their work on this new
the next meeting. They are looking at historical numbers
format and noted that there are a few small adjustments
for Hilton Head and may look at Asheville for a smaller
that need to be made to the agenda logistics wise. So far
meeting. They would like copies of surveys with feedback
there has been positive feedback from members. Planner
information. The committee feels that CVBs are not
ratio was about 40%, which is a huge increase for our
following up or responding to RFPs, so properties will
meetings.
be contacted directly about meetings going forward. Malinda will send survey results out to the Board, and she
Consent Agenda: Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE asked for a
commented that we could expect better responses as long
motion to approve the consent agenda.
as the planner ratio remains high using the new format.
Motion: Diane Weems made a motion to approve the consent agenda. Second: Lindsay Myers Vote: Approved
The Board was asked to share their thoughts on venues with Lori. Exhibits: Karolyn Stone, CHSP, CMP reviewed the agenda for the Business & Education Exchange in September. Stephen Valliere is the new Education Committee Chair.
20
| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
After the meeting, there is a suggestion to create a panel
New Business
to discuss meeting concessions both from the planner and
Chapter Statistics: Vince Chelena reviewed the MPI Chapter
supplier points of view. The Exhibitors will be set up around
Statistics received from International. He stated that,
the perimeter of the room with cocktail rounds. Fifty (50)
for the first time, MPI-CC’s buying power is half a billion
Exhibitors are needed to make budget. There will be many
dollars. Most planners book in the Southeast and Special
program sponsorships available (one already sold). Kevin
Events are the number one type of meeting booked. The
Snyder, committee chair, will be gathering the marketing
Membership Overview shows how we are doing with
information and sending to the Communications team for
retention. The trend is going positive for planners and
distribution. They will be marketing to non-MPI planners and
negative for suppliers.
suppliers as well as members. All marketing materials are to be out no later than August 1st.
Membership Monthly Updates: Tarshi McCoy, TMP reported
The Tradeshow / Business Exchange component works well in
link and paper application. They have posted information
September to support cash flow in the beginning of the year.
on LinkedIn. Brad Shanklin sent out an email about the
that MPI GLOBAL is updating the membership application
Communications: Corey Bizzell reported that the Roundtable in Charlotte had five total participants. Planners are looking
launch of the speaker database by International. This tool is available to all members of MPI.
for other planners to network with and education on skills
Next Board Meeting: The next Board meeting will be held
and specific topics. The one day format is important to them.
at DoubleTree by Hilton Raleigh-Durham Airport at RTP on
They want to participate especially on the Board of Directors
September 18, 2014.
but are unsure of requirements. The communications committee will wait before proceeding with other
Meeting Adjourned. n
roundtables. Malinda stressed the need for a new website for the Chapter. A potential vendor is identified but the committee will hold off on offering suggestions until after meeting with the vendor while attending WEC.
Colleen Schwoerke, CMP PlanIt Right MPI-CC Vice President of Administration
Unfinished Business: None reported.
PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE Meeting & Event Planning Certificate Program
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Free Info Sessions:
December 10, January 7, January 28 ▪ 6-7 p.m. UNC Charlotte Center City 320 E. 9th St. ▪ Charlotte, NC 28202 Program designed for Meeting & Event Planners, Travel Agents, Hoteliers, Hospitality Professionals & those considering a career change.
704-687-8900 ContinuingEd.uncc.edu/mep Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
21
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22
| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
Vladgrin/iStock/ThinkStock
Are you currently a member of another MPI Chapter and want to become a member of the Carolinas Chapter at the same time?
It is possible through a Subscriber Membership with the Carolinas Chapter!
Supplier or Planner Subscriber Memberships are available to those individuals who are currently a member of another MPI chapter and want to join the MPI Carolinas Chapter. As a subscriber member, you will receive all the benefits of being a member of the Carolinas chapter including member rates to all meetings, listing in the membership Directory as well as access to our online and printed directory, bi-monthly chapter newsletters and member rates for all forms of advertising opportunities within the Carolinas Chapter. Annual dues are $125. To print out a Subscriber Membership form, click here.
Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014 |
23
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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2014
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Keep it fresh. Meet in My Durham…really.
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
The Cotton Room at Golden Belt
Food Trucks in Downtown Durham
Durham Convention Center
RDU International Airport
My Durham, NC is a creative, diverse, colorful, and entrepreneurial destination that is easily accessible with an international airport just 11 minutes from Downtown, an affordable selection of over 7,500 hotel rooms, and the home of the world-famous Research Triangle Park. My Durham is also unique. It’s not like
Rizzo Conference Center
Where great meetings happen
NORTH CAROLINA
everywhere—or anywhere—else; there is no location amnesia here. You will know you have been to a unique city that literally has something new for your attendees – fresh daily! Come see what My Durham is all about!
Corey D. Bizzell Vice President, Group Sales & Business Development
monthly meeting planner
September 18-19, 2014 September Chapter Meeting Register Now Durham, NC DoubleTree by Hilton
May 18, 2015 May Annual Meeting Register Now Charleston, SC Charleston Marriott
November 20-21, 2014 November Chapter Meeting Register Now Southern Pines, NC Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club and Mid Pines Reminder: Deadline for submissions for the next Carolina Blitz is September 28, 2014. Please submit any articles or photographs to be considered for publication to Editor-In-Chief Ginny Fountain at Ginny.Fountain@ncemcs.com
Carolina Blitz Word Search by Kistin Jordan, Graphic Designer
Print this page and find the hidden words associated with this issue of the Carolina Blitz.
S B U S I N E S S E X C H A N G E Q T H R L O G S H T E B B R E A T H U
Lynn Rich Stress
R C H E U P M S R C A O Q V I A G M
Book
E I O K A E S A E V R O AWO E E L
Changes
S R E WY T O Z Y E P K R P P M GW
Legacy
S N E Q B I H C H A N G E S B O L S
Breath
B N A R O U A I O N T A O E J A S O
Business Exchange
N Y B A O G R P X G H Z R O H S E I
Failing Forward
M L A I E M AWO H S E D A R T L S F A I L I N G F O RWA R D A O Y T
Tradeshow Member