MPIKC Times
MPI - Kansas City Chapter
'Tis the season to be thankful and for giving back to our community! I am thankful to be part of such a wonderful organization. Our members are kind-hearted, generous individuals that never seem to tire of giving back to their community.
One example is the level of caring and giving witnessed at our recent November program. More than six boxes of donations were collected from our members to be donated to Project reStart, an interfaith ministry that works with Kansas City's homeless to find them shelter. Additionally, when I reached out to several chapter members about adopting a few families for gift giving, the outpouring of generosity of our members warmed my heart.
In addition to our members, I am also thankful that as an organization we are making great strides this year. Earlier this year, I challenged you, our members, to provide us with feedback in our bi-annual needs assessment. We had a record number of responses in this assessment, most of it was positive, however, there were several key areas of improvement.
I am happy to announce that your board listened and implemented many of your suggestions into our plan for the 2009-2010 fiscal year.
You asked ... Members asked for changes to the monthly programs. The most common responses called for specific program topics, such as focusing on industry trends, face to face vs. virtual meetings, advanced planner topics, wine pairings or food and beverage events, unique venues in Kansas City, different ideas for annual dinner, social networking/social media.
We answered ... Our overall programming theme this year is Drive Change. After careful planning and brainstorming, the program committee was able to "drive change" through the following programs in 2009-2010:
• October Monthly Program – R U Ready for Web 2.0? A Lesson in Social Media Strategies
• November – Wine Tasting/Pairing Reception with Leslie Sbrocco
• January Monthly Program – Face- to-Face or Virtual? That is the Question!
• March Monthly Program – Twittering Around, A Twist on the Traditional Dine-Around This event focuses on unique venues in KC and incorporates use of social media
• Professional Education Conference includes topics on social media and latest industry trends
• Annual Awards Banquet and Dinner will be a new experience this year!
You asked ... Better tracking and follow-up with strategic partners and sponsors.
We answered ... Our strategic partners and sponsors are an extremely important part of our organization. We recognized that our current system of tracking and following through with sponsors was not working. In an effort to re-vamp this program, we applied for a grant from the MPI Foundation to build a new interactive database that would create efficiencies for our committee members, thereby, making the process more fluid. We were awarded the grant in May and have been able to implement the database to track all sponsors for the fiscal year to-date. Additionally, the strategic alliance committee reviewed all other MPI chapters current ROI for sponsors and revised our chapter's ROI.
You asked ... Improve chapter's recognition of volunteers for their time and services.
We answered ... The chapter volunteers are the most important component of our organization. Without our volunteers we would cease to exist. We took this feedback very seriously, and worked to create programs that would reward volunteers for their service and ultimately entice others to join. The leadership development committee hosted several volunteer recognition events in 2009 and has planned additional events for 2010. Additionally the committee created an incentive program for volunteers to win a "Day in Kansas City" and the Leader of the Quarter recognition for volunteers to be recognized by the board and rewarded for their time and service.
You asked ... Although the chapter did not comment specifically on the Web site. The statistics from the assessment showed that our membership does not the visit or use the site on a regular basis. These statistics showed that a change in formatting and communication of information was necessary.
We answered ... The communications committee is currently working with MPI and a third-party company to bring KCMPI a new Web site to be launched in January 2010. This new site will feature up-to-date information from KCMPI. In addition, we will have several cutting-edge functionalities to help keep our chapter on the forefront of Web 2.0 technologies.
Over the next six months, we will also continue to work to improve the chapter newsletter, scholarship programs and the job bank.
Have additional suggestions for the board? Feel free to contact me to discuss, I'd love to hear your feedback!
I wish each and every one a very blessed and happy holiday season! See you in 2010!
Warmest regards,
Michelle Lizak, CMP
Michelle.a.lizak@gmail.com
October
Angel Jennes
Manager, Corporate Events
Black & Veatch
Molly Lieberknecht
Sales Manager
Chateau on the Lake
November
Rylee Grover
Student
University of Arkansas
Maureen Hofrenning
Vice President
Greater Wichita CVB
Shannon Turgeon
Director of Sales & Marketing
Holtze Executive Village
November
12 years
Kathleen Stipek, CMP
Independent Meeting Planner
Sue Heley, CMP
Conference Planner
A-S-K Associates, Inc.
4 years
Phil Allemang
Promotion & Event Advisor
CAM, Inc.
3 years
Danielle Jodts
Program Manager
Bishop-McCann
Cynthia Tompkins
Vice President, Special Events Manager
UMB Financial Corp.
2 years
Justin Stine
Meeting and Convention Sales Manager
Branson Lakes Area CVB
Louis Kram
The Hospitality People, a Division of Allied Staffing
1 year
Megan Snow
Student
University of Central Missouri
Anne Miller
Student
University of Kansas
December
18 years
Belinda "B" Waldo
Director of Sales Midwest
Associated Luxury Hotels
Patti Gaughan, CMP
Independent Planner
Meeting Management & Consulting
17 years
Kathy Thompson, CMP
Manager, Corporate Meetings & Trade Shows
Bushnell Outdoor Products
Cathy Ewing, CMP
Executive Manager Corporate Meetings & Events
Bayer CropScience
11 years
Anne Deuscle
Marketing Manager
Destination Crown Center
10 years
Keely Grayson-Inman
Corporate Conference & Events Coordinator
DST Systems
9 years
Ward Wheeler, CMP
Events Planner
Midwest Research Institute
8 years
Lynne Fleenor
Director of Sales and Marketing
aloft Leawood
7 years
Kelly Malone-Kirby, CMP
Director, Catering & Convention Services
Sheraton Overland Park Hotel
4 years
Michelle Lizak, CMP
President/Consultant
The Meeting Mavens
3 years
Sheila Anderson
Senior Sales Manager
Walt Disney World
Jenny Forsythe
Regional Director of Sales
Prestige Resorts & Destinations, Ltd.
Philip Arbuckle, CMP
President
MeetingTrack, Inc.
2 years
Curtis Pickering
VPR Creative Group
Chris Aquino
Sales Manager
Intercontinental
Kristi Templeton
Meeting & Incentive Manager
Cottages, Cabins and Castles
Lacey Spallitta, CMP
Meeting Planner
MAC Meetings and Events
Craig Deel
Senior Sales Manager
Marriott Kansas City Downtown
Valerie Robertson
Director of Sales
Holtze Executive Village
1 year
Graydon Dawson
Director of Global Training Systems
Meeting Professionals International
Kristy Mathes
Account Executive – Environments, Exhibits & Events
Kendal King Group
Are more green meetings happening, and are they important to businesses, communities, and planners? The answer is a big yes! An MPI study done this year asked planners what trends would influence their meetings in the coming year, and "More green meetings" was ranked as the #4 most important trend. Another poll showed that 18 percent of travel managers said that an environmentally friendly program would be of high priority in the coming year. So lets look at some ways that we can plan green meetings that benefit the 3 Ps, People, Planet and Profit.
Thanks to the magazines Corporate Meetings & Incentives, and One, published by MPI, I will list several ideas that work, and also several web sites that can help you plan eco-friendly meetings.
How about the menus, an important part to every meeting. Consider having some vegetarian meals. I know all you steak eaters have already discounted this idea, but take a second look. One planner said she serves one or two vegetarian meals at conferences and attendees don't even notice there is no meat. Lasagna can be great without meat, plus salads. Talk to the chef, they like to be creative, and can probably save some money at the same time. Plan to use in season and locally grown veggies and fruits as much as possible. You can search www.nrdc.org for a complete list of vegetables and fruits that are in season, by state and date. Also, look at sustainable seafood, and there is a regional guide that will help at http://tinyurl.com/regionalseafood. Again, work with the chefs, and ask if they have special dishes they make using organic and local foods. Don't be satisfied with a pre-printed menu, ask and you will receive, or at least have a better chance than if you don't ask. Think about your menu.
Many meetings are being made without binders, or at least with less printed materials. Many are going to putting info on memory sticks, which may or may not be a cost savings, but are much easier to take home, to hand out, and so much less waste. These can be pre-loaded with info, check with your vendor because the cost for this service is low. But remember, memory stick pricing changes weekly, so be careful when using a bid, it might not be accurate if not ordered quickly.
A way to be greener and help the community is in lieu of room gifts, maybe donate to a local charity or non-profit. One planner has done this by having part of her event at the local zoo, and donating to one of their causes at the zoo. Still tax deductible, but fun and a good cause was benefited.
Here are a few sites you can go to and calculate your green effect:
www.newdream.org/water/calculator.php
www.neenahpaper.com
www.epa.gov/cleanenergy/energy-resources/calculator.html
Another good site is www.meetgreen.com. You can't do everything, but you can start. For your next meeting, start by planning one part to be green, and then expand that thought for your next meeting. Every little bit helps the 3 Ps, and that means it helps all of us. Let me know what ideas you have come up with at phila@cam-inc.com. Have a great day!
Bishop-McCann was recently listed in the September 2009 issue of Corporate Meetings & Incentives as one the top 25 North American full-service meeting and incentive companies. Long-time KCMPI member, Dan Nilsen is president and owner of Bishop-McCann. He has been a long-time supporter of KCMPI and employs several KCMPI members. Congratulations to everyone at Bishop-McCann!Congratulations to Shana Hoy in her new position. Below is Shana's new contact information:
Shana K. Hoy
Event Planner - West
Husch Blackwell Sanders LLP
4801 Main Street
Suite 1000
Kansas City, MO 64112
Direct Phone: 816-983-8809
Direct Fax: 816-983-8023
E-Mail: shana.hoy@huschblackwell.com
Web site: www.huschblackwell.com
Congratulations to Michelle Lizak, CMP, in her new position. Below is Michelle's new contact information:
Michelle Lizak, CMP
President
The Meeting Mavens
10725 McGee
Kansas City, MO 64114
Direct Phone: 816-510-9491
E-Mail: michelle.a.lizak@gmail.com
Mission, Kan. (November 3, 2009) -- AGENDA: Kansas City has appointed Tyler Adkins as its new Sales & Marketing Manager. He has been an active member of the hospitality industry since 1995.
Adkins most recently worked as Midwest sales manager for the Dallas Convention and Visitors Bureau. Prior to that he served as sales manager for the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza where he managed the hotel's corporate clients. Earlier he held the position of events sales manager for the American Restaurant in Kansas City. Adkins began his career in the hospitality industry as corporate market sales manager for the Hyatt Regency Crown Center in Kansas City.
"We are delighted to have Tyler join us," said Alton Hagen, general manager of AGENDA: Kansas City. "We know he's going to be a terrific addition to our team and we look forward to Tyler representing AGENDA: Kansas City and AGENDA: USA in the local hospitality community."
Adkins earned his bachelor of science degree in hotel and restaurant management from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kan. He is currently a member of the Kansas City chapter of Meeting Professionals International (KCMPI) and formerly served on its board of directors. In 2001, he was named KCMPI Supplier of the Year. Adkins also is a past member of the board of directors of the Design Industry Foundation Fighting AIDS (DIFFA).
AGENDA: Kansas City is a full service Destination Management Company celebrating its 20th year of providing event production, tour and transportation services to organizations in the Kansas City. Further information about the company can be found on its Web site, www.AGENDA-KansasCity.com or you may reach Tyler Adkins at tadkins@agendakansascity.com.
Last October, The Lodge of Four Seasons became a Certified Green Hotel through the Missouri Hotel Association. This certification is designed to recognize lodging businesses which are going beyond existing state and federal environmental regulations to insure that their operation has a much smaller environmental impact on their local communities. The Lodge is the only hotel at the Lake of the Ozarks that has this designation which is also recognized by AAA who shows this certification in their guidebooks.
New Marriott International (M.I.) Greatroom Debuts
ATLANTA, Ga. -- August 19, 2009 -- Privately held Noble Investment Group ("Noble"), a leading sponsor of private equity real estate funds and an integrated lodging and hospitality operating and development organization, today announced the completion of a comprehensive $9 million renovation to the Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza Hotel. The enhancements include an overarching renewal of all guestrooms, meeting and event space, food and beverage outlets, as well as all public areas.
The $9 million renovation incorporated the début of the new M.I. Greatroom, a.k.a., The Lobby {Reinvented}, a place where business and leisure intersect in a stunningly stylish, energetic and multidimensional setting that inspires guests to engage, relax, work and play. The M.I. Greatroom is an ideal spot for guests to engage in small work groups, gather in a casual dining experience or socialize and unwind in an inviting, comfortable, living-room atmosphere with intimate social zones, enabling guests to tailor the use of the space to suit their own needs, much as they would do in their own homes.
• The welcome zone has been transformed into more than just a place to check-in at the front desk or kiosk, featuring a new approach to local information, personalized concierge services and retail offerings.
• The individual zone is a quiet place to unwind with small, comfortable spaces to read magazines and newspapers, work, surf the net or listen to personal entertainment, as well as enjoy a snack.
• The social zone enables groups of business travelers to relax in a lounge atmosphere, offering intimate tables-for-two, where guests can converse with a glass of wine or gourmet treat, as well as other areas for impromptu meetings or breakout discussions.
• The business zone includes a revamped business center including workspace with for an individual or a group.
"The Kansas City Marriott Country Club Plaza has been an integral part of the vibrant urban community for many years," said Bob Morse, Noble's managing principal and chief operating officer. "The multi-million dollar upgrades and new M.I. Greatroom enhance the opportunities for our dedicated team of service professionals to provide our guests with a truly remarkable home away from home experience."
Vibrant colors and rich hues merge throughout the building to bring a vision of contemporary style, elegance and sophistication to this urban landmark. The hotel boasts 16,000 square feet of meeting and event space, two concierge levels, Main Street Grill, lobby lounge, fitness center and indoor swimming pool. The 19-story hotel is located approximately four miles south of downtown Kansas City in the renowned Country Club Plaza district. Home to the region's most established high-end retail, commercial and residential area, Country Club Plaza is the sophisticated center of Kansas City's dining, shopping and cultural scene.
About Noble
Noble Investment Group is an investment management fiduciary specializing in the lodging and hospitality real estate sector. Through its private equity real estate funds, Noble is a value-added, active investor in hotels and resorts throughout the United States. Noble and its predecessors have realized superior risk-adjusted returns while acquiring and developing more than $2 billion in lodging and hospitality assets. The organizations current discretionary private equity fund represents $310 million of equity commitments.
Noble Management Group is an award winning operator of more than 8,500 hotel and resort guest rooms, convention and conference centers with approximately 1,000,000 square feet of meeting space, day and resort spas, upscale restaurants, and branded retail coffee stores. Noble's mission is to be the most respected hospitality organization in the United States, as measured by the loyalty of our team members, our customers, our financial stakeholders and the communities in which we live and operate. www.nobleinvestment.com
Epic Entertainment - Starlight Theater
www.epic-kc.com
4600 Starlight Road
Kansas City, MO 64132
816-997-1107
Andrea Bauer
andrea.bauer@epic-kc.com
Bonterra Catering & Events
www.bonterracatering.com
320 North McGee
Kansas City, MO 64116
816-842-7484
Alisa Breitenstein
alisab@bonterracatering.com
Board Meeting:
T - Rex
www.trexcafe.com
1847 Village West Parkway, Suite K125
Kansas City, KS 66111
913-334-0715
Melissa Magsalin
txkcgs@ldry.com
My KCMPI membership is valuable because of Networking and Relationships.
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It allows me the opportunity to network with potential clients outside of my immediate city.
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It has helped me jump start my career and professional network!
- You make so many friends who turn into business opportunities and I can keep current on what is happening in the hospitality industry.
- It's now as much a social and support group as it is educational and fun.
- It keeps you connected with others in the industries. Active membership also keeps you apprised of latest industries trends and offers educational opportunities.
- It helps me to gain future business and network with potential future clients
KCMPI has provided me invaluable professional and personal relationships. A great deal of my professional success is due to the contacts I have made thru KCMPI. - I would be lost without the networking and my KCMPI pool of professionals.
- My professional success is due in great part to the relationships I have developed thru KCMPI membership; in addition I have made many lasting and dear personal friendships thru MPI!
- I can always contact another industry professional for a referral or answer a question. I would be LOST without KCMPI.
- You meet people and feel a part of something.
- I wanted to expand my network and get to know planners/hoteliers on a personal level.
My KCMPI membership is valuable because of Professional Enhancement.
- I feel it's important to belong to a group that supports and furthers the career I've chosen as a meeting planner.
- I get to meet so many different people and these people may be able to help me in the future as potential clients or in job hunting.
- It is the group that is the most respected in our industry.
- It gets my name and face out into the community.
- It's a good opportunity to learn about the industry, to help others, and to be helped.
- I want to be a leader in being aware of the newest venues, and trends in catering, service and the wow factor.
- MPI has given me opportunities for career advancement, development of leadership skills, and a wonderful network of friends and business colleagues.
- Enhance professional skills, network, and gain new customers.
- I was strongly encouraged to join as a student and it has been beneficial to me and to the advancement of my career. As I prepare to speak to UMKC students next semester, I will also share with then the value of joining this organization as a students because obtaining mentors early in your career will be the jumpstart you need to get started in the industry and it will add value you as you seek to grow.
- It helps keep me at the top of my game of corporate event planning, as our meetings showcase new and interesting venues in which I can plan corporate and company events, creativity in food selection and display.
- I enjoy me experience working as a committee member. It gives me insight to how other companies train their employees in problem solving and working together with others as a team, striving for the same goal. And, I love it when the end result is successful.
- I view it as a resource for finding dependable suppliers and hearing other planners' opinions and experiences with hotels and suppliers.
- It provides for a good return on investment for my employer.
- The chapter has really help me put "me" on the map here in KC.
- The e-news of being a member of MPI and other opportunities outside our area.
My KCMPI membership is valuable because of Education.
- My involvement with KCMPI has given me valuable access to new ideas, current trends and important information as a supplier to the meeting professional.
- Your chapter is really involved the educational benefits as well as community service and social events.
- It keeps me informed about industry trends, resources and contacts.
- It offers creative, new ideas for event planning as well as training/learning sessions.
- It helps me become aware of venues, catering and service providers.
- I wanted to earn my CMP.
- My membership also provides me with opportunities to visit venues that I would not have otherwise.
- To learn more about planning and implementation of corporate events that have a huge wow factor without a huge budget. To learn more from a planner's perspective: budgets, negotiating, networking with vendors. To learn how to improve my role as a corporate planner, especially things that impact my budget and how I can add wow without adding cost.
- It's a local chapter and monthly sessions are offered in convenient locations. It also allows me to meet others around town in this career.
- I learn various tricks of the planning trade. I learn more about how to get the wow factor into events. I learn about a variety of venues and types of activities. I learn about vendors in the area. I get the networking experience with fellow planners and with area vendors.
- This chapter provides relevant, top-notch education with locations that allow me to attend and get the most for my educational dollar. The quality of leadership and their obvious concern for the good of the members in the chapter is also very attractive.
- It's a wonderful organization dedicated to the education of professional meeting planners. It's a great support system.
My KCMPI membership is valuable because of Fun.
- You get to see and do fun things instead of always working, working, working.
- I have opportunities I would not have otherwise. I love the people I get to work and volunteer with on a daily basis.
- It's fun!
- It's kind of like your 401k ... the longer you have it the greater the value. It's a great resource for me as a planner in our industry.
MPI cares about each and every one of its members and has recently made efforts to make sure that no one is faced with the decision to have to drop their membership with MPI. As a chapter, we wanted to make sure you were aware of all the options available to you and/or your employer, if you're finding it difficult to pay your membership dues.
1. MPI Installment Program
- Payment of membership dues in quarterly affordable installments of $81.25.
- Installment form can be found at www.mpiweb.org and is to be filled out and sent to MPI headquarters in Dallas.
2. Unemployment Assistance Program (UAP)
Unemployed members can retain their membership FREE for the next 6 months.
- UAP form as well as reassignment letter to be sent to MPI headquarters office in Dallas.
- Members still unemployed after 6 months can continue their connection to the community for another 6 months for $99.
3. Memberflex Program
- Please contact the MPI Headquarters office for a case-by-case review of the options available.
4. Members in Distress
- MPI will assist members impacted by a natural disaster by waving 1 year of membership dues.
5. Referral Program
- Recruit a new full member to MPI and receive a $25 credit toward your membership renewal.
- Have the new member put your Member ID number in the "Referred By" section on the paper application or on the online process and you will be credited for the referral.
- Only 13 new members needed to cover your annual membership dues!
6. Complimentary Limited Membership
- This is for the employer who loses an employee who's a member of MPI due to a member leaving the company.
- The employer can apply for a three month trial "limited membership" for a current employee of the company that is replacing the departing MPI member.
7. Trial Membership
- Prospective members can try MPI membership for three months for only $49.
- Receive all MPI member benefits for these 3 months
8. KCMPI Scholarships
- KCMPI Annual Membership Scholarship -- Deadline: October 30, 2009
- Meet Different Stipend ($750 towards registration and airfare) -- Deadline: November 15, 2009
- CMP Certification Scholarship -- Deadline: January 15, 2010
- KCMPI Professional Education Conference -- Deadline: February 15, 2010
- Application forms can be found at www.kcmpi.org
Information on all of these options, as well as all the necessary forms, can be found online at www.mpiweb.org. If you're interested in discussing these in more detail, please contact the KCMPI VP of Membership, Andrea Cowsar at acowsar@visitkc.com or 816-691-3834.
You're passionate about meetings and events, which is why you're a member of the MPI community. And, now when you share that passion, you can profit as well.
How? Every time you recruit a new full-paying member to MPI, you'll receive a $25 USD, CAD or a €25 credit toward your membership renewal. Recruit 13 new full members and your entire renewal fee is covered. To get your referral credit, simply have the new member put your member ID number in the "Referred By" section on the paper application or on the online process. It's that easy
Rules for the program:
1) This opportunity is open to all active MPI members.
2) The program starts June 1, 2009. There is no end date. MPI reserves the right to change the dates of this program.
3) A new member will be officially credited to the recruiter when new membership has become active by paying for a full membership at the rate of $375 USD, CAD or €375.
4) To receive credit for each new member, your name or ID number must appear in the "Referred By" section of the online or paper application at time of new membership.
5) If a new member calls the MPI member care team to become new member, they must mention the member that recruited them at that time.
6) For every new full-paying member, the recruiter will receive $25 USD, CAD or a €25 credit towards their membership renewal.
7) There is no limit to the number of members you can recruit. If you recruit 13 new members by the time your membership is up for renewal, your membership will be paid in full.
8) New student or faculty memberships are not eligible for this program -- only full paying memberships.
9) Credit will not be given if a new member is participating in any discounts for new membership.
10) MPI reserves the right to change the program at anytime.
11) If you have questions, please contact Charlie Spiegel, director of Membership, at 972-702-3074 or cspiegel@mpiweb.org.
The term "Web 2.0" is commonly associated with web applications that facilitate interactive information sharing, interoperability, user-centered design and collaboration on the World Wide Web. Examples of Web 2.0 include Web-based communities, hosted services, Web applications, social-networking sites, video-sharing sites, wikis, blogs, mashups and folksonomies. A Web 2.0 site allows its users to interact with other users or to change Web site content, in contrast to non-interactive Web sites where users are limited to the passive viewing of information that is provided to them. [Source: NFi Studios blog, "Web 2.0 and the Meeting Industry with MPI's Kansas City Chapter, [http://www.nfistudios.com/news/2009/10/20/web-20-and-meeting-industry-mpis-kansas-city-chapter]
Guest speaker, Sterling Raphael, joined KCMPI on November 19 to provide an overview of these very questions, including what is social media and what are the necessary strategies to implement a successful campaign.
Sterling Raphael, CEO of NFi Studios, is an entrepreneur, speaker and social media fanatic with a background of experience conceptualizing and directing the development of creative interactive applications for such clients as Disney Entertainment, Orlando Magic, Universal Studios and many more.
For a PDF summary of notes via Twitter from this event, visit http://www.tweetdoc.org/, use the search feature and search @kcmpi. The document is titled "KCMPI – Social Media Strategies Program." Additional resources and a copy of the presentation from this program can be found at http://www.nfistudios.com/resources.
As always, KCMPI is grateful for the support of its generous sponsors. Many thanks to the Lenexa Chamber of Commerce and the Lenexa Conference Center staff for the outstanding meeting space. A special thank you to All About Catering for a delicious lunch buffet and the Overland Park Marriott and Overland Limousine for their service and continued partnerships. We could not offer such valuable programs without the generosity and support of our sponsors.
If you would like additional information on this program or any of its sponsors, please contact Michelle Lizak, CMP at michelle.a.lizak@gmail.com.
On November 19, more than 80 people (KCMPI members and nonmembers) attended a very successful KCMPI fundraising event at The Ritz Charles featuring nationally recognized wine pairing expert, Leslie Sbrocco. Among Leslie's numerous accomplishments is her Emmy award and her James Beard award. She has been featured in numerous national publications and is a favorite on the "Today" show.
The event was a huge hit due to delicious food, fantastic atmosphere sponsored by Harvest productions and highly informative and funny content from Leslie – sponsored by FIVE STAR Speakers. Leslie generously donated all the wine for the event. During the fun and interactive session, Leslie showed planners how they can make better informed wine decisions to create a superior event – even on a budget.
The evening capped off the annual FIVE STAR KC Speaker Showcase attended by more than 180 planners. All revenue generated from Showcase sponsorships were donated to KCMPI. Thanks to KCMPI member Bill Hartnett for coordinating the sponsorship effort, which raised more than $1,700 for the chapter and to the sponsors -- The Ritz Charles (Event Site) Harvest Productions, (AV Production), All Seasons (Catering/Off-site), Toad Cove (Destination Resort), FIVE STAR Speakers (Entertainment/Speakers) All Seasons (Event/Equipment Rental) Doubletree Overland Park (Hotel) CAM, Inc. (Promotional Products), HelmsBriscoe (Site Selection Consultation), Overland Limousine (Transportation).
Special thanks to everyone who helped with the planning and execution of this fun and informative event.
The 2010 Professional Education Conference is "Driving Change" with some exciting and forward thinking keynote speakers. Shel Israel, author of Twitterville, How Businesses can Thrive in the New Global Neighborhoods, [Portfolio, Sept. 2009]; co-author, of Naked Conversations--how blogs are changing the way businesses talk with customers [Wiley, 2006], and The Conversational Corporation, a Dow Jones eBook will be speaking about using social media to launch your business forward.
Jennifer Jo Cobb is a professional racecar driver, public speaker and a corporate spokesperson will show us how "Pit Crew Strategies for the Office" increase our teamwork.
As CEO of Emotional Wellness, Inc. Dr. Lawana Gladney has presented speeches and training sessions throughout North America to educational institutions, businesses, organizations and churches. Dr. Gladney's will talk to us about how to "Creating meetings that excite the brain for optimal learning."
Be prepared to be recharged by Brian Blasko, his session will talk to us about "Taking the Driver Seat, Lessons on Leadership." Brian's programs inspire individual and organizational growth, and are some of the most sought after in the country.
When it comes to making great food, Chef Gary Hild's love for cooking is exceeded only by his passion for teaching and mentoring others. Take some time out of your busy day to play with food, and learn a little about it too.
For more information on our speakers and topics visit the PEC Web site www.kcmpi.org/edcon or visit our Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=164939446588
December 17, 2009 -- 6:30-9:30 p.m. Holiday Gala: Winter Wonderland -- Starlight Theater, Helzberg Diamond VIP Room
Sleigh bells ring ... are you listening? In the Kansas City, the snow is glistening! Join your KCMPI family for a winter wonderland celebration for the holidays! Santa will be making a guest appearance, so don't miss out on an opportunity to have your photo taken with him!
January 21, 2010 -- 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Webinar
Virtual or Face-to-Face. That is the Question!
Steven Gardener has hired and trained a number of speakers and trainers since the early '90s and hosts virtual and live speakers conferences across the United States that specifically tackle the subject to face-to-face vs. virtual meetings. During this webinar, Steve will address issues including: how the audience, budget, desired results affect the decision to host a face-to-face versus a virtual meeting and what would be the best fit for each need. Additionally, he will review various tools that can boost interest and impact for your meetings. *This program is part of the season pass promotion.
February 18, 2010 -- 3-6 p.m. -- Crowne Plaza Hotel Kansas City Downtown
Be a Storyteller: Communicate your Message with Impact and Influence
How do you persuade skeptical people to make the leap from disbelief to engagement? How do you get people involved in and excited about your product, your idea, and your brand? How do you influence others? This interactive and high-energy session with Sue Hershkowitz-Coore, CSP, gives you specific tools to influence commitment and motivate others to rally around your message. You'll learn how you can use stories to connect to "buyers" and how you can tell a compelling story. Plan on being involved, having fun and leaving with fresh ideas to build commitment and communicate with greater impact. NOTE: This program is part of the season pass promotion.
March 18, 2010 -- Twittering Around -- A Twist on the Dine-Around -- Downtown Venues
This year's dine-around will incorporate a twist on the traditional event. Join the fun as KCMPI sees new venues and samples delicious foods while incorporating teamwork and Twitter.
April 7-8, 2010 -- Professional Education Conference -- Westin Crown Center
Join KCMPI for a two-day educational immersion into the latest industry trends. This CEU-packed event features top-notch keynote speakers and timely-topic breakouts. Don't forget to network with your peers during tradeshow, networking breaks and the opening night reception! Register early and save!
May 20, 2010 -- Golf Tournament -- Drumm Farm Golf Club
Coming soon to a green near you! Get your clubs and hit the greens for the annual KCMPI Golf Tournament. New this year, we'll be hosting this event in the spring, so mark your calendar!
June 18, 2010 -- KCMPI Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet -- Faulkner's Ranch
Save the date for a Round UP of Winners at KCMPI's Annual Awards Banquet. This year we will converge on the serene lakeside setting of Faulkner's Ranch for a unique "couture cowboy" experience. Please plan to join us for this special evening honoring our exceptional volunteers of 2009-2010!
Name, Title and Company: TranSystems, Amy Bornhorst, Meeting Planner
Job description: My job largely consists of coordinating lodging and meals, meeting space and other logistics for Senior Management Meetings, Board of Director's Meetings, Project Manager Trainings, Supervisor Trainings, Project Administration Trainings, Client Manager Trainings and HR Contacts Conferences. I coordinate our annual fundraiser for TranSystems charity of choice and just added to the list for this year is serving as event coordinator for five significant client events/charity golf tournaments being held across the country.
Years involved in KCMPI: Seven of the best months of my life!
KCMPI committees I have served on: 2009 PEC Committee
What I enjoy best about the hospitality industry:
• "I'm a big fan of hospitality ... receiving it, that is." Therefore, I appreciate the detail. I love the attention. Hospitality is attention to people; with details so much in place only the guest is on our mind. So ... my goal is to the give the customer what I would want.
• I enjoy the initial discovery interview ... coming to understand the significance of an event-to-be, in the mind of the client.
o First impressions as the guests arrive.
o What must be accomplished during the event
o What should be remembered after the event
o The creative exchange ...
o How can I give the client an "everything-is-as-it-should-be" confidence throughout the event?
• Developing relationships with suppliers so the work just gets easier as we grow together ... working from the same side of the table.
• Being trusted to create whatever environment is required to support and even enhance the clients' objective.
• The individuals working alongside me in this industry are my friends. This is my "fit."
Activities I enjoy outside of work:
• I enjoy spending time with my husband of one whole year and my two stepdaughters, a good happy hour and of course breaking it down on the dance floor.
If Planner: Words of Wisdom for Suppliers:
• My job is to come in "on time," "at budget" and above the client's expectations. Who's more important than my supplier?
Name, Title and Company: Renee Price, Sales Manager, The Lodge of Four Seasons Golf Resort and Spa Shiki
Job description: Sales Manager for the Kansas City & Western Region, as well as the St. Louis & Eastern Region for the Corporate and Association market for The Lodge of Four Seasons at the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks -- assisting group leaders and coordinators with their offsite business conference and event needs.
Years involved in KCMPI: 2 years
KCMPI committees I have served on: Field to Table 2009, 2010 Professional Education Conference
What I enjoy best about the hospitality industry: The opportunity to meet and work with new people, the chance to create memorable experiences for my clients.
Activities I enjoy outside of work: Acting, reading, snow and water skiing, big movie buff.
Anything else you'd like to add: I am able to enjoy the best of two worlds; working at a beautiful resort destination that offers world class accommodations, cuisine, spa and golf all set against the amazing back drop of the Lake of the Ozarks with the ability to head west, or east to visit my clients for a taste of the city life. I couldn't ask for more!
If Supplier: Words of Wisdom for Planners: Your time is too valuable to spend with industry representatives that will tell you why they can't accommodate a certain meeting criteria or event request, so strive to only work with those industry people that have a "can do attitude" who will show you how to make your vision a reality.
Did you know a recent study from the Institute of Human Performance shows two-thirds of all corporate change initiatives fail? Think of the cost and waste, and then think what can you do to help your internal or external clients as they struggle with their own changes. One thing is certain in these uncertain times: Change is something we are all facing and at record pace.If you are a planner or supplier to corporations, it is obvious that you have an opportunity to add value by changing those stats in your favor. If you are an association planner or supplier, you can help members who work for or sell to corporations. If you are a government planner or supplier, what can you learn from your colleagues that will translate to your group's success?
As professionals in the meeting industry we are asked to show ROI for our efforts, but often we can be short sighted on how to calculate our impact. True ROI goes beyond controlling costs for each particular event. Instead, we need to challenge our buyers to think in terms of how the meeting will impact the growth of the entire organization. For example, those ill-fated change initiatives we discussed earlier -- what is the root cause of the failure? More often than not, the breakdown lies not with the goal, but with the REASON for the goal and DEDICATION for reaching that goal. Successful meetings and events are some of the best ways to solidify those messages -- aligning goals, strategies, tactics, execution with the culture approach and attitude that is unique to your group. In other words -- people get behind a goal that they can really believe can work and meetings can show them how to get there. It's up to us to make sure we really understand those issues and not just jump to the tactical execution phase of putting events together.
It is not always an easy job, but it is one of the best ways to ensure that your team provides value not only to the event but also to the Boardroom. Think of ways you can deliver and live that message. It's a big ROI for your own career.
Lori Torec -- VP, Communications -- LTurec@fivestarspeakers.com
Maria R. Davis, CMP -- Newsletter Chair -- mdavis@4seasonsresort.com
Debra Sweeten -- Newsletter Co-Chair -- debra.sweeten@yahoo.com
Phil Allemang -- Director of PR and Marketing -- phila@cam-inc.com
