Issuu

Carolina Blitz June - July 2018

New Member Spotlight Ashelyn Roberts Page 8

Marriott Twin City Quarter and Benton Convention Center Winston-Salem, NC | July 19-20, 2018

in this issue...

features Get to Know the Chapter Award Nominees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-24 WEC Review. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25-26

in every issue Our Annual Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Our Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Monthly Meeting Planner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Presidentâ€™s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 MPI-CC Board & Committee Chairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 New Member Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11 Look Who We Spotted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Fundraising News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 See MPI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Kistin Jordan

Board Meeting Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

MPI-CC THANKS OUR ANNUAL SPONSORS! We Appreciate Your Support! Diamond Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors:

Silver Sponsors:

| Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

our members Welcome New Members! Kelly Adam JB Duke Hotel and Conference Center and Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club kadam@jbdukehotel.com Stephanie Baer Graylyn International Conference Center sbaer@graylyn.com Beth Burleson Chetola Resort & Sporting Reserve beth@chetola.com Floyd Chavis Blue Diamond Transportation floyd@bluediamondus.com R. Simone Collman simone_collman@ncsu.edu Kathy Creech North Carolina Healthcare Association kcreech@ncha.org Brandon Crumpton Key Signature Entertainment brandon@ keysignatureonline.com Shannon Erdley New Bern/Craven County Convention & Visitors Center serdley@cravencountync.gov Mary Ferrell Ashworth College wiggsandme2014@yahoo.com Teresa Goins Guilford Technical Community College stlockleargoins@gtcc.edu Roger Goodwin ON Services a GES Company rgoodwin@onservices.com Kaitlin Gordon Atrium Health Kaitlin.Gordon@ AtriumHealth.org Shaundrelle Green Ashworth College uniquelyuep@gmail.com

Lindsay Harris Spartanburg Marriott lindsay.harris@marriott.com Stephanie Harris PSAV slharris@psav.com Donna Ivey Bermuda Run Country Club donna.ivey@clubcorp.com Kirk Lewis Meetings Today kirk.lewis@meetingstoday.com Kate MacCoy Absolutely Charleston kate@absolutelycharleston.com Natalie Metallo, CMP Wells Fargo natalie.metallo1@ wellsfargo.com Eve Mordetsky CHG Healthcare / Weatherby Healthcare Eve.mordetsky@ weatherbyhealthcare.com Rich Phaneuf Association Executives of North Carolina (AENC) rich@aencnet.org

MPI-CC Anniversaries 35 Years Martin Couch Kiawah Island Golf Resort 25 Years Laura Jordan Creative Events & Meetings, LLC 15 Years Benny Williford Pinnacle Speakers Bureau Dianne Parker Embassy Suites Historic Charleston

Jennifer Kist, CMP MHI 10 Years Herb Arnold Biltmore Farms Hotels 5 Years Cathy Somerville Parata Systems Maryke Emmerton The Steritech Group, Inc. Temeka Wilson Ingersoll Rand Company

Congratulations to each of you for reaching a milestone in MPI!

First Timers and New Members at the May Mixer

Ashleigh Reed Trident Technical College Foundation ashleighmreed@gmail.com Ashelyn Roberts ConferenceDirect ashelyn.roberts@ conferencedirect.com William Scheidt Sewa Beats North America bill@sewabeats.com Blair Stegall The Francis Marion Hotel blair.stegall@ thefrancismarion.com Tabatha Walsh Village at River Landing twalsh@murfam.com Lathy Williams Ignition Event Group lathy@ignitioneventgroup.com

Left to Right Back: Blair Stegall, The Francis Marion; Brandon Crumpton, Key Signature Entertainment; Kate Frohman, CMP, The Solution Center; Brian McArtan, Your Conference Connection; Beth Burleson, Chetola Resort & Sporting Reserve; Kristin Howe, LM Restaurants; Kate Jansen, The Raleigh Convention Center; Roger Goodwin, ON Services a GES Company Left to Right Middle: Ashelyn Roberts, ConferenceDirect; Lauren Davis, Quaintance Weaver Restaurants and Hotels; Kelly Adam, JB Duke Hotel and Conference Center and Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club; Emma Quinette, Wilmington Convention Center; Jamie Frydlo, Hospitality of BlueGrass Management; Joel Smith, Wilmington & Beaches CVB; Karen Hilla, Holiday Inn Wilmington; Lisa Stringer, Vacation Myrtle Beach Hotels Left to Right Front: Sara Mordente, Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant; Nicole Succop, Courtyard Carolina Beach Oceanfront; Heather Schaffnit, Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh; Nicole Kelljcheain, Winegardner & Hammons Hotels; Raquel Tanon, Hilton North Raleigh/Midtown Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

monthly meeting planner July 19-20, 2018

November 8-9, 2018

Chapter Meeting

Winston-Salem, NC

Spartanburg, SC

Marriott Twin City

Spartanburg Marriott

Quarter and Benton Convention Center

BrianAJackson/iStock/Thinkstock

September 20-21, 2018

Education &

Business Exchange

Charlotte, NC

The Westin Charlotte

2019 dates and locations coming soon!

Reminder: Deadline for submissions for the next Carolina Blitz is Friday, July 27, 2018. Please submit any articles or photographs to be considered for publication to Editor-In-Chief Cathy Mauldin, CMP, at cathymauldin@gmail.com.

| Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

president’s message

Rock Your Membership – No Excuses by Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP

Woooooo Hoooooo! We have a fun year ahead of us and I’m truly honored to be your new chapter president. Did you know that 37 of your fellow chapter members just met in Indianapolis for WEC18 June 2-5, along with 2200 of our closest industry friends? If that experience is any indication of the fun we are about to have this year then I’m beyond thrilled to be a part of this crew. We danced, laughed (Boy, did we laugh!), took part in top notch education, got to explore Indianapolis and had more fun doing all of this than should be allowed for a “work” trip. If you couldn’t attend this year, I recommend you go ahead and figure out how to get it in the budget for next year, so you can join me in Toronto. Oh wait, you don’t have money in the budget? That’s a-o-k too. You can apply for a scholarship from the MPI Foundation. The Foundation is waiting to give you money so you can attend events like WEC as well as various other MPI functions (you can even use it to get your CMP or CMM). They gave out over $780K last year, to members just like you. Apply! No excuses, see you in Toronto. At the annual meeting in May, I spoke to the Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP membership about what we can do to help President of the BEST MPI Chapter push our chapter forward. It’s all about YOU! I challenge each of you to step outside of the box and offer new ideas and opportunities for us to embrace. You have my word that all ideas and suggestions will be discussed at our board meetings. Better yet, come to a board meeting and present your idea(s) yourself. Meetings are open to all chapter members. This may come as a shock, but we’re going to have fun at the board meetings this year as well. By the time you’re reading this, it’s July, it’s hotter than Hades outside and we’re gearing up for the upcoming meeting in Winston-Salem. The meeting is July 19-20 and is sure to be a great educational and networking experience. Get online, register and get ready for one heck of a good time. See you in Winston-Salem!

Alison Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

MPI-CC 2018-2019 Board of Administration President Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, CMM Global Knowledge 919-461-8698 Alison.Harding@ globalknowledge.com

President-Elect Nicole Keshler Greater Raleigh CVB 919-645-2682 nkeshler@visitraleigh.com

Immediate Past President Alyce Kelly, CHSP The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores 252-241-8402 gm@theinnatpks.com

Director of Marketing Mica Parekh, CMP IWP Photography 919-270-2510 mica@iwpphotography.com

Marketing Committee Jessica Bernhardt The Kessler Collection 912-346-2966 Jessica.bernhardt@ kesslercollection.com

Director of Meeting Planning Deanna Griffith House, CMP, GWPgM, CME, PMP, PCM, CMM Charter Spectrum Reach 704-941-3482 deanna.k.griffith@gmail.com

Education Committee Co-Chair Alison Flaig Genworth Mortgage Insurance Alison.flaig@genworth.com

Communications VP of Communications Ricardo Hicks American AV 336-686-6895 rhicks@americanav.com

Education VP of Education John Cruz, CMM Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC 301-889-1143 john.cruz@bcbsnc.com

Education Committee Co-Chair Wendy Jeffries HelmsBriscoe wjeffries@helmsbriscoe.com

Finance VP of Finance Maureen Donovan Holiday Inn Resort Wrightsville Beach 910-256-2231 mdonovan@

Special Events (Auctions) Selah Bideau, TMP Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte 704-409-3547 selah.bideau@hilton.com

Silent Auction Committee Chair Needed

wrightsville.holidayinnresorts.com

Special Events (Trade Show) Chris Chassagneux, CMP Relias 571-243-2991 cchassagneux@relias.com

Business Exchange Committee Chair Needed

Director of Leadership & Volunteer Development Nicole Filippo, CMP Elon University 336-278-6091 nfilippo@elon.edu

Awards Committee Chair April Ferguson, CMP, CMM BCD M&E Onsite at Cisco Systems 502-468-6084 april.clark1@gmail.com

Director of Member Engagement Michelle Castro Siena Hotel 919-918-2539 mcastro@sienahotel.com

New Member Committee Chair Alicia Miller, CMP Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce 919-664-7090 amiller@raleighchamber.org

Member Engagement VP of Member Engagement Amelia Hodges, CMP, CMM North Carolina Association of CPAs 919-469-1040, ext. 128 ahodges@NCACPA.org

| Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

f Directors and Committees

Advocacy Committee Chair Christian Schroeder Visit Winston-Salem 336-728-4218 Christian@ visitwinstonsalem.com

Chapter Administrator Christine Irwin, CMP The Management Office 704-377-5648 Christine@ themanagementoffice.com

Publications Committee Cathy Mauldin, CMP DESA, Inc. Onsite at CDM Smith 803-917-1871 cathymauldin@gmail.com

Social Media Committee Tenessa Moore Moore Creative Ink, Inc. 704-542-4814 tmoore@moorecreativeink.com

Meeting Planning Committee Molly Johnson, CMP Wilmington & Beaches CVB 910-332-8747 mjohnson@ wilmingtonandbeaches.com

Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair Farrah Staub, CMP Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley 919-571-5319 farrah.staub@marriott.com Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair Jennifer Kist, CMP MHI 704-607-1454 jkist@mhi.org

Leadership & Volunteer Development Committee Jemeria Lawson

The Durham Hotel 919-768-8837 jlawson@thedurham.com Member Care Committee Mary Mora MGM Speakers Bureau 336-775-9661 maryg@mgmspeakersbureau.com

Recruitment Committee Chair Needed

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

new member spotlight New Member Spotlight: Ashelyn Roberts by Selah Bideau, TMP

MPI-CC friends join me in welcoming Ashelyn Roberts to our chapter! It is so exciting to see our chapter grow every day! Where do you currently work and how long have you been there? I work for ConferenceDirect, and started with the company right after I graduated from college, in 2013. I continued with the Ashelyn Roberts company, holding different roles for over 3 years. In 2016, I left to work on the hotel side in convention services at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel and returned to ConferenceDirect about a month ago as a Global Project Manager. Tell me about your job and the organization you are with. ConferenceDirect is a third-party provider of meeting planning services. We help clients save time and money by securing the best hotel accommodations, meeting space, conference venues, and hospitality services at the most favorable terms possible. My role specifically is to support the accounts of my team – anything from organizing site visits, to sending RFPs, and negotiating contracts on behalf of our clients. I love advocating for our customers and building relationships in this industry! What are your hobbies and what do you do for fun? I love to sing and cook! Why did you join MPI-CC? To build relationships with other likeminded friends in the industry. I feel like the best way to grow and learn is to stay connected to fresh perspectives of others in hospitality. If you were able to meet a famous person, alive or dead, who would it be and why? This question is always difficult for me, but if I had to pick right now, I’d say Michelle Obama. I admire her

| Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

strength and grace, and passion for positive change. It would be an honor to meet her! What advice would you give someone interested in pursuing a career in our industry? Always take the opportunity for mentorship and continued education from those more senior than you in our industry. I’ve learned so much from those that have invested in me. If you take the extra time to learn someone’s name, send a handwritten card, or just say thank you, you will reap the benefits tenfold! n

Selah Bideau Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte 2017-2018 MPI-CC VP of Membership

“I nodded knowingly –then realized I knew nothing about it.” Yeah, it happens. It’s pretty common actually. You meet someone who starts telling you all about how ridiculously cool Greenville, South Carolina is and you’re thinking, “Yeah, I know!” But then it hits you, you don’t know. Don’t feel bad. Tom Vanderbilt for Travel + Leisure had the same reaction. In fact, T+L uncovered that not only is Greenville a “surprising new hot spot,” they found it’s on a “fevered upswing.” So, if you have a fever for more than just the same old, lame old meeting locations, wrap your mind around Greenville, SC. Yeah, THAT Greenville.

What are you waiting for? Plan your next meeting in the place that has everyone talking. #yeahTHATgreenville

800.351.7180 Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

education Annual Meeting Education Recap by Nicole Filippo, CMP

Planners and suppliers learned about scope creep, body language, leadership, team-building and more during MPI-CC’s Annual Meeting held May 16-17 at the Hotel Ballast in Wilmington, N.C. Lynne Wellish, CMP, CHSE, kicked off the meeting asking participants, “Could you do just one more thing?” When dealing with resource challenges and additional requests, it is common to feel overwhelmed. In order to control the extent of obligations and evaluate success, Wellish urged participants to establish clear goals and objectives, and to define the scope of projects and responsibilities. She also addressed “scope creep,” a project management term referring to when the scope of a project continues to grow beyond the original agreedupon scope. Scope creep may occur as a result from an increase or decrease in attendance, time, money, space and delegation. To turn scope creep into an advantage, Wellish advised participants to: 1.

Present your idea. Explain your vision and how you are going to implement it.

Bring ROI back to the goals and objectives. Solve the resource challenge.

Bring value to your job performance. Be known as a problem solver.

During Janine Driver’s session “You Say More Than You Think: How to Use the New Body Language to Increase Sales, Build Clientele and Get What You Want,” participants gained a better understanding of how their non-verbal and verbal communication impacts others, how to read others’ hidden emotions, and how to use body language communication to build better relationships. Driver, the CEO of the Body Language Institute, outlined how to deliver a strong introduction. This involves introducing yourself using appropriate verbal pauses, taking the time to make the connection genuine, nodding attentively and not too much, and avoiding bouncing and moving around. When it comes to touching, Driver advises using touch carefully and only when making a positive point. Touching too often or too long should be avoided, she explained.

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Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

Other non-verbal movements to avoid include rubbing fingers or hands together, fidgeting, picking nails, rubbing arms, putting hands in pockets, and rubbing your neck or fidgeting with a necklace. These moves can convey nervousness, boredom and weakness. Driver’s advice to the participants included letting go of the need to be right, treating others with respect, looking for ways to help others, and being happy. “Don’t wait for happiness,” Driver said. “Start right now to be happy.” n

Nicole Filippo, CMP Elon University 2017-2018 Education Committee

RECHARGE YOUR MEETING EXPERIENCE IN HICKORY

Energize your meetings and attendees with a well-crafted experience in Hickory, North Carolina. As an organization, we are grounded in the steady pulse of our supercharged service — a positive staple that our clients and customers count on. With advanced technology offerings, renovations throughout the facility, and a metro-wide commitment to community enrichment, we have the power you seek to amp up your next event!

HICKORY METRO

Convention & Visitors Bureau

Meetings. Well Crafted.

828.322.1355 hickorymetro.com

“All of the staff was very helpful and exceptional to work with – best venue staff I have ever worked with!” – Sharnese Ransom, Executive Director

NC Association of County Directors of Social Services

Looking Ahead at Education: July Chapter Meeting by Nicole Filippo, CMP

During the July 19-20 chapter meeting at the Marriott Twin City Quarter and Benton Convention Center, planners and suppliers will discuss the event design experience in-depth. Clarke Allen, founder of event production company Clarke Allen Events, will explain how to create a productive and unique environment for attendees, as well as discuss each phase of the event design process. During “The Event Design Experience: How to Make a Meeting an Event,” participants will learn how to create context to content through environmental design, theme and proper brand communication. Allen will share how to create touch points that determine the degree of engagement, producing a higher “Retention of Information.” Participants will learn the power of making a meeting an event by identifying the why, determining the goal with a specific set of objectives, and layering the senses to create the most insightful experiences.

In “Understanding the Anatomy of Special Events through the ‘Event Design Experience,’” Allen will walk participants through each critical phase of event design and planning: due diligence, design phase, planning, event coordination, and wrap-up. Participants will understand how each element weaves together to create an event design experience worth remembering. These sessions will benefit anyone looking to elevate their next meeting into a memorable experience. See you there! n

Nicole Filippo, CMP Elon University 2017-2018 Education Committee

Thought you knew us? Meet the new us.

CONVENTION CENTER WINSTON - SALEM

NORTH CAROLINA

With a multimillion dollar Convention Center renovation and more than $1.5 billion invested downtown, Winston-Salem is renovating more than buildings. We’re Reinventing the Meeting. Contact Christian@VisitWinstonSalem.com, 336.782.4218, or Karen@VisitWinstonSalem.com, 336.728.4210.

ReinventYourMeeting.com

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

Look Who We Spotted at the...

| Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

... Hotel Ballast in May! Photography by Mica Parekh â€“ IWP Photography

Orig inality without reservations Vanvisa and Vansana Nolintha have poured their beliefs and passions into Brewery Bhavana. Their newest gathering place blends inspired dim sum with craft beer, flowers and well-curated books in a space that celebrates creativity. It’s the kind of establishment you’d only find in Raleigh, where talked-about chefs and some of the country’s most original restaurants are thriving. A meeting in Raleigh is an opportunity to go beyond the conference room to discover unique experiences and find greater inspiration. Find the Top 25 Reasons to Meet in Raleigh, N.C., at visitRaleigh.com/top25.

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Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

Thank You! Merci! Gracias! Danke sehr! Arigato! Xie xie! by Mica Parekh, CMP

How many ways can you say thank you before it seems redundant? No matter that, I want to thank EVERYONE one more time for making our 2018 Silent Auction and Bidding For Good (BFG) experience AMAZING! To all who were involved, whether you were on the committee that worked throughout the year and helped get all the meeting auctions and raffles off without a hitch or a guest that bid on our BFG event to help us reach our very lofty goal, which I always believed we could reach! And of course, all in between, whether you shared our messages on social media or showed up to bid on one of the amazing items at our Silent Auction in May â€“ thank you! A special thank you goes to all that donated to our chapter for this huge endeavor, as well as members who commented that they have our auction in their budgets every year, and the new members who just joined and wanted to be a part of this awesome event! Our sweet friend and long-standing member Kathy Flowe, CMP, whom you all know and who has been instrumental in the Silent Auction program for MPI helped me for the finale. Just having her there with me meant so much. And, really getting to see the

Continued on page 25

MEET AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL. Greensboro offers the perfect combination of small town charm and big city appeal. See whatâ€™s new in Greensboro! You will be surprised by all it has to offer.

visitgreensboronc.com Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

see mpi! MPI Has the Best Partnerships! by Jean Travers

One of the perks of being a part of MPI-CC, is building relationships and partnerships. These partnerships evolve over time at MPI meetings and other industry events, such as those promoted by hotels, partners and trade associations. One of the hotelier’s favorite conferences to attend is the HelmsBriscoe Annual Business Conference, or ABC as it is more commonly referred to. This year, ABC was held in Orlando, FL. Loews Hotels and Resorts hosted both HelmsBriscoe’s worldwide associates and international hotel sales representatives. Attendees enjoyed education and networking with the third-party associates and hopefully found leads that could work with their hotels.

& Spa, Barbara Dragan-Greenville, SC CVB, Erin MoyeSheraton Imperial, Cindy Aremia-Sheraton Charlotte/ LeMeridien Hotel, John Noonan-Hilton University and Garrett Wood-Cabarrus CVB, for attending the HBABC and making it all the better to attend! n The See MPI column features MPI-CC members doing what they do best, representing our industry with passion and expertise. If you have an event you’d like to highlight or an awardee that deserves recognition, please email Jean Travers at JTravers@HelmsBriscoe.com.

Jean Travers HelmsBriscoe

As a treat to the attendees, Universal Studios opened up their theme park for the conference. It was so much fun to eat creatively made foods and dance the evening away with partners who are friends back at MPI-CC. Partnerships are key to long-term relationships and these MPI-CC members are always available to assist each other and create new business! Thank you to Suzie Bayne-Westin Poinsett, Stephen Valliere-Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort

visitgreenvillenc.com 800-537-5564

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Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

Winston-Salem Marriott’s Multi-Million Dollar Modernization Unveiling August 2018 Located in the heart of North Carolina, the city’s largest full-service hotel will feature* the new M Club Lounge and a new 2,500-sq. ft. fitness center with natural lighting. In addition, all 319 oversized guests rooms will soon include: • Walk-in showers, • 55” mounted TVs • Laminate floors • Plush Serta® Perfect Sleeper® Mattresses *Post renovation

DESIGNED WITh YoU IN MIND Located in downtown Winston-Salem, the Twin City Quarter - home to the $20 million newly renovated Benton Convention Center - now showcases 175,000-sq. ft. of flexible meeting/banquet space in 55 rooms, including 6 ballrooms. For our client’s convenience - one sales and event planner contact for the entire complex. Within walking distance to more than 45 restaurants, lounges, craft breweries, shops and galleries on Fourth Street’s Restaurant Row and in the Downtown Arts District.

5th and Cherry Streets, Winston-Salem NC 27101 • 336.725.3500 • info@twincityquarter.com • twincityquarter.com

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

Get to Know the Chapter Award Nominees by April Ferguson, CMP, CMM

Congratulations to ALL of our fantastic award nominees! We are so grateful for their service to the chapter and congratulate them for being nominated by their peers. Each and every one of them deserves to be a winner! Read on to get to know the candidates and why they were chosen. Hall of Fame Nominees Beverly Stewart

Vice President of Sales, Pinehurst, Southern Pines, Aberdeen Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Beverly has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 1990. Beverly has served on multiple committees over the years. “Bev is a dedicated chapter member and volunteers when she is needed. She has been a faithful, hardworking member for a long time. She is consistent and doesn’t compromise on her ethics or her professionalism. She is what she is and we love her for it. She is loyal and hardworking. She also loves to have a good time. If you don’t want to hear the truth, don’t ask her--she is honest.” “Bev’s longevity in the industry says a lot about her career and her abilities. She continues to strive to take care of her clients.”

Erin Moye

Sales Manager, Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park Erin has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2000. Erin has served on countless committees and has been the face of MPI-CC as the President-Elect, President and Immediate Past President. “Erin is a long time member who has worked through many committees within our chapter, ultimately to end up as President. She has a warm smile and always tries to make members feel welcome.” “Erin is a long standing supplier within our chapter and has given many hours of her time to volunteer on committees and the board. She certainly has helped make our chapter a stronger, better place.”

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Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

AND THE WINNER IS: Molly Johnson, CMP

Director of Convention Sales, Wilmington and Beaches CVB Molly has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2002. Molly has served on countless international and chapter committees over the years and is currently the Meeting Planning Committee Chair. She served as Chapter President in 2010-2011 and was recognized as the MPI-CC Supplier of the Year in 2014. Here’s what her peers have to say about her: “She believes that MPI is the leader in hospitality community for education and standards of meetings/ events, the cutting edge.” “Molly continues to be involved since her role as President of the Chapter Board. She has contributed on many levels. She has such a positive attitude! She always seeks out new members and truly cares about MPI.” “She is always welcoming to new faces and eager to help others connect and network in this industry. I think that’s a huge part of being successful in the hospitality industry and that second nature to Molly.”

Planner of the Year Nominees Cathy Mauldin, CMP

Christophe Chassagneux, CMP

Senior Events Marketing Manager, Relias Chris has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2016. He is currently serving as the Business Exchange Committee Chair.

AND THE WINNER IS: Deanna Griffith House, CMP, CMM, GWPgM, CME, PMP, PCM

Senior Manager, Program Management at Spectrum Reach Deanna has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2005. She is currently the Director of Meeting Planning. “Deanna has helped the chapter improve the CMP study group and has started the chapter meeting hotel RFP process earlier so members can plan their travel 9-12 months in advance. She is always prepared for every meeting and brings great ideas and creativity to our committee.” “Her expertise in Project Management has been a great benefit to our committee. Deanna holds about 6 meeting industry designations which shows her knowledge and commitment to the profession.” “As a planner, I recognize the schedule difficulties with upholding a volunteer position, but Deanna’s dedication and prioritization is commendable. She commits her time, knowledge and hard work to ensure we offer a great program to our attendees. Deanna is a GREAT candidate for this award!”

“Chris stepped up to the plate as soon as he was asked to work on the Business Exchange. This can be a daunting task and Chris jumped right in.” “He has the perfect “get it done” attitude and didn’t let the magnitude of the Business Exchange scare him away. His help producing this event should not go unnoticed.”

Supplier of the Year Nominees Barb Dragan

Senior Sales Manager, VisitGreenvilleSC

Linda Ilsley, CMP

President, LPI Events Linda has been a valuable member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 1994. She is a past President and has served on countless committees over the years. She is currently serving on the Advocacy Committee. “Linda is so passionate about MPI, she is always selling it to everyone she meets. She is an incredible mentor and advocate for the meetings industry.”

Barb has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2001. She has served on countless committees, has been the face of MPI-CC as the President-Elect, President, and is the current Immediate Past President. “In Barb’s new role with the CVB she is even more active in the industry, attending different chapter events always looking for ways to improve our chapter.” “Barb did a great job as President and continued through this year as past president. Her passion and commitment to the Carolina’s Chapter shows in all that she does!”

“Linda embraces new members, she promotes membership to anyone that she can about MPI and what MPI can do for you, the passion that she has for MPI is genuine. Linda’s motto has always been `Planners buy from Suppliers - Suppliers buy from Suppliers - Planners buy from Planners.`”

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

Nicole Keshler

National Sales Manager, Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau Nicole has been a valuable member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2011. She has served on several committees and is currently on the Board of Directors as the VP of Communication. “Nicole is super-dedicated to this Chapter and to MPI. It’s easy to see that other members love her and hold her in high regard. Her professionalism and genuine desire to serve make her deserving of this award.”

AND THE WINNER IS: Farrah Staub, CMP

Director of Sales & Marketing, Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley Farrah has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2014. She is currently serving as the Co-Chair for the CMP Study Group and also as a member of the Marketing Committee. “She is actively involved in HSMAI and is a big influencer on the education to help elevate the professionalism of suppliers.” “Farrah’s outside of the box thinking was a great energy boost that I believe the business exchange needed. She has always been supportive of MPI and recognizes the value of partnerships.”

Selah Bideau, TMP

Sales Manager, Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Selah has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2013. She has served on several committees and is currently the VP of Membership. “Selah always has a positive outlook and a “we-will-getthis-done” attitude. She has MPI-CC’s best interests at heart and remains focused on getting other members involved.” “Selah recently changed jobs which left her membership up in the air. She was serving on the board and managed to keep her membership alive and remain active as a leader during the transition. Many could have let the membership go, but Selah showed her dedication while remaining an integral part of our chapter.”

Tomorrow’s Leader Nominees Caroline Grant

Association Sales Manager, Hilton Wilmington Riverside Caroline has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2017. She is currently an active member of the Meeting Planning Committee. “Caroline jumped right in when she joined and was a valuable resource in planning the annual meeting last year in New Bern. She is now at the Hilton Wilmington hosting the annual again and is a great member of the planning committee.” “Caroline went above and beyond hosting the MPI-CC annual meeting last year!”

Tammy Jeffries

Asst. Director of Convention Services, Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitor’s Bureau Tammy has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2013. She is currently an active member of the Education Committee. “Her optimistic attitude is impressive. She has never met a stranger and she seems to love life. She also seems to love her job and puts everything into it.” “Tammy always represents the meeting industry in a positive manner. She works hard for our chapter and for her employer. I’ve enjoyed my interaction with her at work and through MPI-CC.”

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Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

AND THE WINNER IS: Karen Wall

Convention Sales Manager, Visit Winston-Salem Karen has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2014. She is currently an active member of the Silent Auction Committee. “Karen is one of those people I enjoy being with because she is positive and optimistic. You rarely see her without a smile and something good to say. She is professional and

knows how to get the job done. She is truly a good person and great chapter member.” “Karen deserves to be recognized for her work for the chapter. She is dependable, ethical and professional. On top of all that, she’s fun to be with!”

Nicole Filippo

Communications Manager, Elon University Nicole has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2006. She is currently an active member of the Education Committee. “As a member of the Education Committee, Nicole writes all the education recaps in Blitz magazine. She has a `can do` attitude and always open to lending a helping hand!” “There have been times when other committee members are unable to fulfill their duties due to schedule conflict, and Nicole always jumps in to help!”

Volunteer of the Year Nominees Mica Parekh

Photographer and Owner of IWP Photography & Video Mica has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2014. She has served on various committees and is currently the Director of Special EventsAuctions. “Mica and her camera can be found at almost every meeting, catching great shots of everything from the attendees to the food, always capturing the true spirit of MPI-CC. She also works hard to collect Bidding For Good items, which is not always easy.. She is dedicated to MPICC and shows it in her helpful attitude and smiling face!” “Mica has so much passion for MPI - she gives back as a volunteer photographer, she serves on the social media committee and now serves on the Board of Directors.”

Christian Schroeder

Director of Sales and Services at Visit Winston-Salem Christian has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2006. Christian has been the face of MPICC as the President-Elect, President and Immediate Past President. He is currently the Advocacy Committee Chair and an active volunteer on the Nominations Committee. “Christian is the consummate professional. He is positive and caring. He is a great example of what chapter members should try to be like. He is fun and hardworking and stays positive about life.” “Christian has shown his enthusiasm for the chapter by serving on the board and as President. He continues to volunteer and work for the chapter and will do whatever he’s asked. He thinks of others and is happy when others are recognized. He’s a good person!”

AND THE WINNER IS: Cathy Mauldin, CMP

Senior Meeting Planner, (CDM Smith) DESA, Inc. Cathy has been a member of MPI and active in the Carolinas Chapter since 2004. She has served on several committees and is currently serving on the Publications Committee as the Editor of the Carolina Blitz. “Cathy stepped in this year as the new Committee Chair for publications. She is responsible for putting our Blitz together and has done a WONDERFUL job taking over this role. She is always prompt in her responses and is the perfect picture of a member behind the scenes that does so much for our chapter without actually being able to attend meetings.” “Her hard work, responsiveness, willingness, and organization skills. Cathy is always on top of sending reminders to her committee and making sure things are done by Blitz deadlines.” “CATHY ROCKS! She took this role over from a seasoned member/volunteer and has really done well. She rarely gets to attend meetings but is still very involved in our chapter by heading up the Blitz. No one understands the hard work involved in that but we are so lucky to have her!”

April Ferguson, CMP, CMM BCD M&E Onsite at Cisco Systems 2017-2018 Annual Awards Committee Chair

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

WEC Review by Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP

Thirty-seven of your fellow chapter members met in Indianapolis to experience MPI’s 2018 World Education Congress (WEC) June 2-5. And, what an incredible time we had! To say the education and networking opportunities were top notch wouldn’t do them justice. This year, MPI did something a little different – they combined the Chapter Business Summit (CBS) with the WEC. CBS is a required leadership training that the President-Elect, VP of Membership, and VP of Education attend. We met with other chapter leaders, shared ideas, and brainstormed on new ways of conducting business. I hope you will join me next year in Toronto on June 15-18. I have no doubt that the time spent there will be just as valuable as Indy was. And don’t forget – you can apply for a scholarship from MPI to help pay your way.

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Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

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Continued from page 15 professional working her magic with her team just warmed my heart for MPI. She and her team didn’t do the work necessary for me, they did it for our MPI-Carolinas chapter. They did it for the chapter that they love and the Chapter that they know brings the best education for planners and suppliers in the industry. It truly is a job getting the speakers that can deliver the right message to our members and also be CEU compatible, and having money in our budget to pay them is of the utmost importance.

A WHOLE NEW VIEW ON MEETINGS It Comes Naturally.

It has been my honor to work with so many of you in this year of “FUN-raising” and I couldn’t have done it without the support of my committee and my MPI friends! MPICarolinas Chapter couldn’t do these amazing events without YOU—the member! Thanks again, and keep planning to donate to our chapter so that we can continue to bring you the best education a chapter can possibly bring! n

Mica Parekh, CMP IWP Photography 2017-2018 MPI-CC Special Events (Auctions)

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board meeting highlights Board of Directors Meeting Minutes May 16, 2018 | Wilmington, NC by Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office

Attendees: Maureen Donovan; Mica Parekh, CMP; Selah Bideau, TMP; Michelle Castro; Chris Chassagneux, CMP; John Cruz, CMM; Ricardo Hicks; Nicole Keshler; Deanna House, CMP, CMM; Amelia Hodges, CMP, CMM; Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP; Alyce Kelly, CHSP; Barb Dragan; Christine Irwin, CMP; Vince Chelena; Gilbert Villard Financials: Maureen Donovan presented the April P&L statement, Balance Sheet and Aging Report. She reported that we currently have more items on Bidding for Good than we’ve ever had before, so we feel pretty good about where we will end up with fundraising. Motion: Maureen Donovan made a motion to approve the April P&L and Balance Sheet as presented. Second: Mica Parekh, CMP Vote: Approved Maureen Donovan asked the board to review the 2018-2019 Proposed Budget that was sent in their board packets. This budget was reviewed in great detail at the Annual Retreat in April and the incoming board is satisfied with it. Motion: Maureen Donovan made a motion to approve the 20182019 Proposed Budget as presented. Second: Nicole Keshler Vote: Approved Business Plan Updates: Alyce Kelly, CHSP asked each department to present their 2017-2018 Business Plan Objectives and percentage complete. Minutes: Barbara Dragan presented the minutes from the March 15, 2018 Board of Directors Meeting and asked for a motion to approve. Motion: Barb Dragan made a motion to approve the March 15, 2018 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes as presented. Second: Nicole Keshler Vote: Approved Chapter Office Report: Christine Irwin presented the April 30 metrics report, agenda for the meeting and reviewed the annual banquet rehearsal timeline. Consent Agenda: Alyce Kelly, CHSP asked for a motion to approve the consent agenda. Motion: Selah Bideau, TMP made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Second: Barb Dragan Vote: Approved Marketing: Nicole Keshler asked the board to actively participate in the click game to encourage engagement

| Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018

among all meeting attendees. March Meeting Survey Results: Amelia Hodges reviewed the results from the March Meeting Survey and addressed feedback with the board. Our speaker, Joshua Grimes, was really well received. 2018-2019 Business Plan: Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP reviewed the 2018-2019 Business Plan with the board and filled in the outstanding items. This will be sent to Global no later than June 15. 2019 Meeting Locations: Deanna House and John Cruz presented the 2019 proposed locations. After discussion with the entire board, the following actions will take place: • January 2019 – JB Duke • March 2019 – Christine Irwin will approach the Embassy Suites Uptown Charlotte to see if they have any other March dates available. • May 2019 – John Cruz and Christine Irwin will reach out to Asheville member hotels to see if they are willing to host the Annual meeting. • July 2019 – North Charleston Marriott • September 2019 – John Cruz and Chris Chassagneux will reach out to Raleigh Marriott City Center to discuss availability. Nicole Keshler will reach out to Embassy Suites Cary to discuss their renovations timeline. • November 2019 – Embassy Suites Hotel Charlotte (S. Tryon) Motion: Barb Dragan made a motion to move forward with the 2019 meeting locations as discussed by the board (and outlined above). Second: Selah Bideau Vote: Approved Next Board Meeting: The next board meeting will be held on July 19, 2018 at the Marriott Twin City Quarter in Winston-Salem, NC. Meeting Adjourned. n

Christine Irwin, CMP MPI-CC Chapter Administrator The Management Office

Daniel Weiss | @dweiss002

Carolina Blitz | June - July 2018 |

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 Publications Committee Chair/ Editor one week after the meeting. Send to Cathy Mauldin, CMP CathyMauldin@gmail.com EDITORIAL AND NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE Director of Marketing Mica Parekh, CMP - IWP Photography Editor Cathy Mauldin, CMP • DESA, Inc. Onsite at CDM Smith

Know a Helping Hand? We have so many active members who deserve recognition for their efforts! If you know of someone who is going above and beyond, share their name and volunteer accomplishments with us so we can give them a shout out. This person can be a board member, a committee chair or member or even a brand new MPI-CC member who has already started to shine. Helping Hand Awards are given on a monthly basis and nominations are accepted all the time! Please send your nomination to April Ferguson at aprilferguson10@gmail.com. Thank you for helping recognize your fellow members!!

CALLING ALL WRITERS Do you dream of being a published author? If so, the Blitz is looking for you! While we’re not the Wall Street Journal, 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 great topic ideas. To submit your articles or ideas, please contact Cathy Mauldin, CMP at CathyMauldin@gmail.com or submit via our website at www.mpi-cc.org.

Contributing Writers Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, CMM, Global Knowledge; Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Company; Jean Travers, HelmsBriscoe; Mica Parekh, IWP Photography; Selah Bideau, TMP, Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte; Nicole Filippo, Elon University; April Ferguson, CMP, CMM, Cisco Systems (BCD M&E) Photographer Mica Parekh - IWP Photography Proofreaders Kathy Flowe, CMP, Alabama Theatre; Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office; Teresa Palmieri, Sheraton Imperial; Myron Jones, Fayetteville CVB; Nancy Lowe, CMP, NC Medical Society; Ginny Fountain, CMP, CMM, NC Association of Electric Cooperatives; Melinda Mowry, DoubleTree by Hilton New Bern - Riverfront; Sara Mordente, Hotel Indigo Mount Pleasant Publisher Christine Irwin • The Management Office 704-377-5648 • Fax 704-333-6927 • Christine@themanagementoffice.com Advertising Christine Irwin • The Management Office • 704-377-5648 Design Kistin Creative Studio • 704-724-9188 • kistincreative.com MPI-CC Web Site: www.mpi-cc.org 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 (8 1/2”W x 11”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 six issues of the Blitz published yearly FEB/MAR, APR/MAY, JUNE/JULY, AUG/SEPT, OCT/NOV, DEC/JAN

July 19-20, 2018 Marriott Twin City Quarter and Benton Convention Center Winston-Salem, NC

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, 1307 West Morehead St, Suite 207, Charlotte, NC 28208 Christine@TheManagementOffice.com • Fax: 704-333-6927 For more advertising information contact Christine Irwin at Christine@TheManagementOffice.com or 704-377-5648 Visit our website at www.mpi-cc.org for additional advertising and sponsorship opportunities!