INTERCOM Designed and Edited by Alvalyn Lundgren | Alvalyn Creative
VOLUME 120 | MARCH/APRIL 2016
WHAT WE DID AT
(We)Con Board Report The MPISCC Board of Directors takes stock at the mid-year retreat 10
5 Tips For entertaining the corporate traveler in 2016 14
InterCom Online: www.mpisccintercom.com
Taking Care
An industry veteran shares 10 ways planners should manage risk 8
Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter
DESIGN & EDITORIAL Managing Editor/Designer Alvalyn Lundgren | Alvalyn Creative alvalyn@alvalyn.com 805-857-7981 Contributing Editor Amy Zelinsky, CMP Contributors David Anderson, CMP Laura Bergersen, CMP Michelle Conant Tom Graybill Joe Marcy, CMP Rosa Navas Thomas Smith, CMP Photo Credits pp. 18-21: Alvalyn Lundgren INTERCOM is published six times a year online and in print by Meeting Professionals International–Southern California Chapter, a nonprofit professional association of meeting planners and suppliers. ©2016. Article submissions and requests for editorial guidelines should be sent to Alvalyn Lundgren, Managing Editor, at alvalyn@alvalyn.com. Advertising Information www.mpiscc.org/marketplace/ advertising-kit/
INTERCOM120 IN THIS ISSUE
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President’s Message Refresh & Renew
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Leadership Membership Matters
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Tech See the Light
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Industry Trends Taking Care: It’s our duty to reduce risk.
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Leadership Board Report
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Membership Subscriber Q&A
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Destination 5 Tips for Entertaining the Corporate Traveler in 2016
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Education What We Did At (We)Con
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Member Care
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Strategic Sponsors
www.mpiscc.org 275 East Hillcrest Drive, Suite 215 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 Phone: 805-449-9111 Fax: 805-557-1133
li.cnoem n O m o C r e t Inww.mpisccintercom w
MPISCC MISSION STATEMENT MPISCC will be recognized as the leading local membership community that is committed to shaping and defining the meetings and event industry in Southern California.
Interested in guest blogging? Get the editorial guidelines here! mpisccintercom.com/intercom-editorial-guidelines/
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MPISCC OFFICERS & DIRECTORS 2015-2016 President Mariles Krok, CMP Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board 424-731-7781 President-Elect Nicole Newman SearchWide 951-640-3745 Immediate Past President David Anderson, CMP Eventive Group 562-438-4834 Vice President of Communications Amy Zelinsky, CMP A to Z Meetings & Events 818-646-3445 Vice President of Education Shelley Grey, CMP TCW 213-244-0579 Vice President of Finance MPI Foundation Liaison Joe Marcy, CMP Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau 562-499-2005 Vice President of Leadership Development Christine Hartman Ice Hat Creative 310-601-0695 Vice President of Membership Laura Bergersen, CMP Laura B Events 562-234-8819 DIRECTORS Member Care Michelle Conant LuxBus America 949-400-4583 Member Recruitment Carlos Murillo Caesars Entertainment National Meetings & Events 760-899-2708 Monthly Programs Anna Kim Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board 562-865-0179 Professional Development Joe Martin. CMP BDI Events 323-692-0802 Public Relations and Media Amani Roberts The Amani Experience 424-244-1443 Special Events Mai Johnson, CGMP MGM Resorts International 702-262-4824 Strategic Sponsorship Bryan Quinan, CMP Milken Institute 310-570-4638
INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
Hello MPISCC! I don’t know about you, but I am definitely ready for some Spring weather! Although winter is an important time within the growing cycle, and a very important time for our chapter with a lot happening, spring is my favorite time of year. It’s a time for refreshment and renewal, a time for blossoming and growth. In moving from winter into spring, your MPISCC Board of Directors, Chairs and volunteers began 2016 by propagating what we began in 2015 — laying the groundwork so the chapter enters spring blooming and growing as well! The new year brought the opportunity to sow seeds of knowledge and connection within our membership. Our inaugural Weekend Education Conference at the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach from January 21-23 was a great kick-off to 2016! We had some great speakers and we look forward to cultivating all of the good experiences and information as the year progresses. Thank you to the Education Team for volunteering and your hard work in putting together such an excellent program. Thank you to all of the sponsors and hosted buyers for their contributions. And thank you to everyone who participated!
Refresh & Renew by Mariles Krok, CMP Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board MPISCC 2015-2016 President
Next came the opportunity to make sure we are plowing ahead in the right direction with MPISCC’s Mid-Year Board Retreat at the Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach & Marina Hotel. Our leadership team got together to see how we are coming along with our business plans and objectives. I’m not sure why they are called retreats; in actuality a lot of work is accomplished! Our chapter is in a good place. We have a bounty of wonderful things yet to come. Special thanks to our sponsors: The Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach & Marina Hotel, the Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce, the Voyager, and Brian Stevens. In early February, MPI Global launched its Annual Membership and Chapter Satisfaction Survey. Hopefully, you were able to participate. Your yearly feedback ensures that products and services are valuable, delivered efficiently and effectively, and helps our chapter to prepare future offerings. MPI uses this information throughout the year to help advance the industry and elevate your career. It is also one of the most important tools we have for capturing the thoughts of members and to ensure that we are producing programs and services that help each of you to bloom and grow. With great anticipation and pleasure, we held our first networking program of the year in February at the newly-renovated Petersen Automotive Museum. Talk about beautiful! If it were a spring flower, the Petersen would be the most spectacular! The delicious hors d’oeuvres by Modern Art Catering, beverages by West Coast Beverage Service, music by The Replicas, lighting by AGF, plus the luster of the cars on exhibit, the newly renovated space and the exceptional mem-
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bers in attendance made this event a favorite. If you didn’t have the opportunity to attend, I highly suggest taking a trip to the Peterson. You will find it a great space for all sorts of events, and see some interesting sights to feed your inner speed demon! Getting ready to bud as winter turns to spring is our Meeting Planning Basics and Beyond 3-part series on February 26, March 21 and April 29 at the Concourse Hotel at Los Angeles Airport, a Hyatt Affiliated Hotel. Whether you’re new to the industry, a planner or a supplier, there is something for everybody at MPBB! You can sign up for one or for all 3 sessions. The curriculum is top-notch. And that’s not just me saying it. We have been nominated for a RISE Award for this program! It doesn’t get much better than that! Special thanks to our facilitators and our host hotel for all 3 programs! It isn’t too late to register! You can find more information on the web at mpiscc.org. To ensure strong, beautiful, lasting blooms into the future, please look out for MPISCC’s Needs Assessment coming to your inbox on March 3. As a chapter we solicit our members’ feedback about membership, communication, education, etc. This is our way to fertilize for the future. You provide the information and nutrients necessary for MPISCC leaders and volunteers to shape the chapter so that you are getting the best from your membership. Your feedback is important to us! Everyone who participates will be entered into a prize drawing! A few rare blossoms to look forward to this spring are our Beverly Laing Golf Tournament, Wellness Day & 5K on March 14 at Los Coyotes Country Club in Buena Park, and our State of the Industry Luncheon with Dr. Lalia Rach in conjunction with Global Meetings Industry Day on April 12! Registration is live right now for our Golf Tournament! Hope to see you there! Look out for more information regarding our State of the Industry! Get your garden gloves and clippers ready! There is quite a fragrant bouquet of choices that will be available as we come into my favorite time of the year! In your service,
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Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter MEMBERSHIP MATTERS
DO YOU
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KNOW
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4 Scholarships for MPISCC Student Members
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Let MPI Fund Your Professional Development
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You Can Be A Mentor! Have you been in the meetings industry for awhile? Do you already have the CMP designation? Would you like to gain experience as a mentor or develop your teaching abilities? MPISCC’s CMP Study Group Committee is developing new instructors and coordinators for these ongoing study groups. Will you be one of them? Libby Zarrahy, CMP with The Concourse LAX Hotel, and Haley Powers, CMP with Insightful Meetings, have been leading study groups for over 15 years. They would like to mentor the next generation of study group leaders. Interested CMP members are invited to join them at one of the upcoming MPISCC CMP Study Group sessions, now through April 21, to observe how the sessions are managed.
Did you know that the MPI Foundation offers scholarships specifically to MPI student members? Four programs offer potential scholarships to WEC, EMEC, as well as two IMEX shows: Las Vegas and Frankfurt. All information can be found on the MPI website: www. mpiweb.org/foundation/Grantsandscholarships.
To take your first step toward becoming a mentor and facilitator, contact Shelley Grey, CMP, 2015-2016 Vice President of Education: shelley.grey@tcw.com. You will be given more information on how you can make a significant difference in our industry.
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Are you looking to advance your professional development with an industry designation this year? Remember that the MPI Foundation offers a variety of scholarships to MPI members. In addition to financial support for the CMP and CMM program, there are specific scholarships geared toward the new Meetings at Sea program and the Healthcare Meeting Compliance Certificate. Details can be found here: www.mpiweb. org/foundation/Grantsandscholarships.
Gary J Rosenberg Scholarship Application Deadline is April 15 The Gary J. Rosenberg Scholarship is awarded twice each year and can be used toward MPI conferences including WECon, ursuit of your CMP or CMM; to attend allied meeting association conferences; or college courses relating to the meetings industry. Application requirements: Be a member of the meetings industry for at least 12 months; Be a member in good standing of MPISCC for at least 12 months;
Short on Funds to Renew Your Membership?
Attend at least six (6) MPISCC Chapter programs/ events in the last 12 months;
Are you having challenges with renewing your MPI membership because of budget cuts in your organization? Are you an independent planner, or just starting out on your own?
For extra consideration, actively participate on 1 or more chapter committees in the past 12 months; Submit the scholarship application, a professional resumĂŠ and one letter of recommendation by the deadline (April 15 or October 15).
There are over 20 scholarships provided by the MPI Foundation to fund your membership dues, thanks to the generosity of PSAV Canada, Wynn Las Vegas and Quest Drape. Apply now at: www.mpiweb.org/ foundation/grantsandscholarships.
Submit receipts for all reasonable expenses up to the amount awarded, proof of attendance and a brief review of the educational experience. Visit mpiscc.org/membership/rosenberg-cmpscholarship/ for more information and to download the scholarship application.
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Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter MEETINGS TECH
One of the most cost-effective ways to improve any meeting is to add lighting. From color-changing LEDs to moving lights to gobo effects, adding decorative fixtures can enhance any show.
SEE SEE THE THE LIGHT LIGHT
But before you add anything fancy, you should know that the easiest way to improve your show can cost as little as $250. Just add 2 lights to brighten your stage. Too often, presentations are delivered at a lectern with no stage lighting. Audience members are left straining to see the face of the presenter, or worse, simply stop watching. This problem becomes worse if there is projection, as the screens glow brightly next to a dim stage. The human eye (much like a camera lens) can only handle so much contrast, and the most important part of your presentation – your speaker – is now dark, dull, and not the center of attention. I attended a recent awards show where the presenters stood in front of a bank of windows just before dusk. Because there was no stage lighting, the hosts on stage – framed by the outside lighting – appeared as shadows. Audience members couldn’t see their faces and lost interest in looking at a stage filled with silhouettes. Stage lighting doesn’t need to be expensive. For less than $250 (your cost may vary based on location), you can add two lights – one on each side of the room on stands or on a truss or tower – to light up your lectern. Besides allowing your audience to actually see the presenters, the stage now becomes more of a focal point of your event, drawing the eyes of every attendee.
by Tom Graybill | Tri-Marq Communications, Inc. MPI-Wisconsin
Stage lighting should be deployed during every main session at your event. Sometimes lighting is built in to the room and simply needs to be turned on to brighten your stage. Depending on the size of your stage and the number of people appearing at one time, you may need to add more fixtures to achieve a stage wash. These additional lights can often be added to the same light stand or tower, marginally adding to the budget but greatly enhancing your show.
It’s time to leave the dark ages in the past. Your audiences deserve to see the light!
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INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
Los Angeles is home to dreamers and doers. World-class hotels. Avant-garde restaurants. All players in real-life stories that bustle with energy and promise. What kind of story do you want to tell? What kind of stories do your clients want to tell? Start here and create an ending that’s both successful and happy. Contact our MPISCC member today for more information about L.A.
discoverLosAngeles.com/meetLA Mariles Krok, CMP Destination Sales Director T: 424.731.7781 C: 310.525.9230 E: mkrok@LATourism.org 7
The Getty
Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter INDUSTRY TRENDS
TAKING CARE It’s Our Duty To Reduce Risk by Thomas Smith, CMP | Baxalta US
Meeting professionals have a duty to our employers to protect them. One might call this a duty of care. While we provide the obvious — professional, seamless meetings and special events — there is so much more that we touch. A topic that is of utmost importance to my organization is that of Risk Management. It has become a popular and wellrespected concept. In this article I share some high-profile risks for each of us to be aware of throughout our meeting planning process. While each of us represent a variety of companies and clients, there is one constant. We need to protect the interests of our organizations. Specific areas to be mindful of include branding, finances, property loss, IT, and its overall reputation. Our clients and senior management look to meeting professionals to safeguard them. They expect our choice in venues, vendor partnerships, budget management, and use of brand to be seamless with respect to over-arching culture and reputation in the global communities that we serve. We act as the compliance officer, CFO, head of security, chief IT executive and head of parliamentary procedures, all wrapped up into one big professional package. Ways to Mitigate Risk With careful and thoughtful planning, we will avoid embarrassing and costly mistakes for our organizations. A misstep in our planning can result in an epic blunder that could shatter the financial security and image of our organizations. 8
My advice is to slow down and methodically plan our approaches to both our strategic and tactical logistical planning. Listed below are my top ten RISK TIPS for today’s meeting professional: 1. Conduct audits and training. An audit provides an organization with the opportunity to see what it can be doing better. It uncovers process problems and reveals opportunities for improvement. People make mistakes and they are certainly most often not-purposeful. We should never fear an audit. Rather we should embrace them and be open to enhancing our knowledge and ongoing development. A savvy organization implements consistent training opportunities for their employees and contractor teams. Our industry is everchanging and we must be up-to-speed on all areas of technology and services available to us. 2. Be careful of publicity. Being the topic of a news article is not always a good thing. Free publicity is great, but at what cost? Did the healthcare organization hold a lavish gathering at a resort? Were high-ranking executives photographed drinking too much alcohol at a charity event? Were expensive hotel rates published in a news article about an internal team meeting? We must use caution in our choices and be mindful that information about our programs can leak out. We need to protect and secure our information. Our actions can help or hurt our organization’s reputation.
INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
With careful and thoughtful planning, we will avoid embarrassing and costly mistakes … A misstep in our planning can result in an epic blunder that could shatter the financial security and image of our organizations. 3. Control budgets and expenses. Accuracy is imperative. I learned early on that to be a successful meeting professional, we must have the ability to impeccably manage budgets. It’s one of our most fundamental must-have skills. When we produce a financial report it must be 100% accurate. Careful proofing for accuracy and errors is critical. Depending on your office and work structure, I highly advise having a “budget buddy”. When managing a budget submission, it is not a time to be proud or a martyr. I urge each of us to have others proof our work. A missed digit or “0” could be disastrous and an enormous embarrassment to our organization. 4. Guard Your Laptops. I have a confession: When I’m on-site at a hotel or conference center, I like looking at other meeting professionals’ events. From booths to menu presentations, I’m always checking out the fine work of others to spark ideas. I can’t begin to tell you how many times I’ve walked by a vacant meeting room where laptops were left out in the open sitting on a table. Laptops contain volumes of sensitive information pertaining to those organizations. Data is a risk and must be protected 24/7. Meeting professionals must safeguard their organizations from possible data breaches. Policies should include that meeting rooms be locked and secured at all times when participants are not present. It’s so simple, yet so many do not manage this detail effectively.
5. Inaccurate data occurs because of human error and sloppy work. Proofing procedures should be built into our production timelines. Invitations, savethe-dates, maps and annual reports… errors in these communications pieces can damage an organization’s brand, resulting in lost trust. 6. Manage alcohol consumption. Alcohol can be a horrendous risk for an organization. It must be managed and policies must be enforced. Professionals have destroyed their careers by consuming too much alcohol at a company function. Tragic deaths and injuries have occurred because someone was not managing risk opportunities at business gatherings. Meeting professionals need to create a policy and being it to senior leadership, the board and or human resources. You and I are ultimately responsible for this risk at every one of our programs. 7. Ensure safety and security The safety and security of attendees is a fundamental responsibility. In today’s changing world, security has never been more important. Budgets, staffing and site inspections should address security needs. Meeting professionals must make this a priority each and every day of our programs. 8. Signature authority My organization has approved signing authorities for all contracts. Use caution when signing a contract for any service. Once you have signed, you are fully responsible. If the meeting is cancelled, you are not
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in agreement. If a policy is not created for signature authorities, this would be an excellent time to make a recommendation. Contract and signing issues can create great financial and legal liability for an organization. 9. Design smart activities. We have to be mindful with activities that are smart and appropriate for our given industry. My organization is a pharmaceutical manufacturer, so I am required to adhere to the Sunshine Act. Everything must be appropriate and modest, from hotel selections to meal values to no gifts. While each industry sets its own standards for appropriate activities, but I recommend remaining modest and lowkey with your activity. 10. Sweep the room. At the conclusion of my meetings, we perform a sweep. After our attendees leave, we go over each and every inch of the meeting rooms. We gather name plates, name badges, note paper, binders, agendas, leftover handouts. All papers and materials are shredded … EVERYTHING! The smallest detail doodled on a sheet of paper could be disastrous if it got into the hands of competitive intelligence. Sweep that room!! Risk is assumed when producing events and meetings. With careful planning and foresight, we can mitigate it and be assured that we are managing our employers, clients and participants to the best of our ability.
Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter LEADERSHIP
Board Report
by Joe Marcy, CMP Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau
A mid-year check-up reveals a healthy, thriving chapter. Joe Martin and the Education Team for the success of (We)Con. The event exceeded expectations and provided excellent education. The networking opportunities were memorable and appreciated, our sponsors were generous and our attendees truly valued the experience. A round of applause to everyone who contributed!
The Board of Directors of Meeting Professionals International Southern California Chapter (MPISCC) was ready to work at its Mid-Year Retreat! The Board strategized, collaborated and continued to build a lasting legacy. The t-day retreat kicked off with an unforgettable team-building activity — whale watching! The Redondo Beach Chamber & Visitors Bureau and the Redondo Beach Voyager were gracious hosts. They set-up a courageous voyage where the Board could get close to sea lions, dolphins and whales.
After the budget review and communication discussion it was time to conclude the retreat. Board members acknowledged the progress made and shared their takeaways. President Mariles Krok, CMP had the final word, where she offered her gratitude to the entire board.
After our journey on the high seas, we headed back to the beautiful, newly-renovated Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach & Marina Hotel for lunch. The upscale guest rooms were well appointed and the property had a great location on the waterfront. Our Chapter Business Manager, Judy Webster, reviewed our metrics and dashboard (our business plan for the year) and gave us exciting updates from headquarters. Needless to say, there are exciting things happening with MPI!
We concluded the retreat with a very special dinner. Brian Stevens, CEO of ConferenceDirect hosted the Board in his beautiful home. Special guests Paul Van Deventer, President and CEO of MPI, and International Board Member, Audra Narikawa, CMP joined us for the evening. The toasts were short and sweet, the ambiance was magical and the company was jovial. Brian was a gracious host and credited MPISCC for his success. It was a truly inspiring night to remember. Now, it’s back to work to finish the year strong!
Our retreat facilitator, Tara Liaschenko, CMM wasted no time and kept the conversation moving throughout the day. Every department had the opportunity to present their updates and strategies. Presentations by the Office of the President, Membership, Education, Leadership Development, Finance and Communications included highlights to share: We’re enthusiastic to put money back into our reserves and continue to grow membership. We reviewed our 18-month plan to make sure we’re offering the best cocktail of networking and education to our members. We’ll continue to mentor volunteers and increase engagement.
A huge thank you to all the sponsors that made the Mid-Year Retreat successful: Brian D. Stevens (Chief Executive Officer, ConferenceDirect); Matthew Ringard (Director of Communications, ConferenceDirect); Casidy McClean (Assistant to Brian D. Stevens, CEO ConferenceDirect); Bruce Naglee (Director of Sales & Marketing , Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach – InterContinental Hotels Group); Jan Lemon (Associate Director of Sales, Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach – InterContinental Hotels Group); Tara Liaschenko, CMM (Creative Executive Officer, The Link Event Professionals Inc.); Karin Kartounian (Marketing Manager, Redondo Beach Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau); Deborah G. Shepard, CMP CHSP (Co-Chair, Tourism Committee, Redondo Beach Chamber & Visitors Bureau); and Craig & Caryn Stanton (Redondo Beach Voyager).
At the end of the day we discussed our challenges and acknowledged our successes. Our chapter is in a great position and our foundation is strong. It’s important that we recognize everyone — our Board, our volunteers, our membership and our industry colleagues in particular. Our registration numbers are up, we’re seeing steady increases in advertising and sponsorships, and our membership is expanding. We recognized
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INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
MPBB Take your first step toward earning your CMP!
Meeting Planning Basics and Beyond Get an in-depth overview of the meetings industry! Hear from leading industry professionals, consultants, and educators! Learn about working with stakeholders, risk management, setting objectives, ethics, logistics, and more!
Attendees receive a completion certificate for each meeting worth (4) CEs toward the CMP application or recertification application.
March 21 & April 21, 9:30am The Concourse Hotel at LAX 6225 W Century Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90045 Hyatt Hotels is a 20-year MPISCC Strategic Partner and has sponsored more than 50 MPBB seminars that have boosted more than 1000 planner careers.
REGISTER NOW! bit.ly/1mxDQ77 This URL has been shortened for your convenience.
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MEMBERSHIP Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter MEMBERSHIP
OPPORTUNITY
Q&A
by Laura Bergersen, CMP | Laura B Events 2015-2016 MPISCC Vice President of Membership
Are you currently a member of another MPI chapter?
After Five with MPISCC!
See if a Subscriber Membership is right for you!
After Five is a great opportunity for meeting professionals in the Southern California area to meet new friends and colleagues. With no cost to attend and locations ranging from Long Beach to Ventura, After Five always seems to draw a crowd and never fails to disappoint.
For those who are currently a member of another chapter, becoming a Subscriber Member of MPI Southern California Chapter is an affordable way to receive local access to networking, education and career opportunities.
What is a Subscriber Membership? A Subscriber Membership allows any individual MPl who is currently a member of another MPI chapter the opportunity to access local chapter benefits for a small, annual cost.
How much does it cost? The cost for a Subscriber Membership is $75 annually for any current member in good standing with another chapter.
What are the benefits ? Chapter Events! Attend MPISCC chapter meetings and events at a discounted member rate. Volunteer Opportunities! Meet other members and learn new skills by joining a MPISCC committee. Volunteer positions range from making phone calls once a year to helping plan a monthly program!
Industry talk around the table at DoubleTree LAX – El Segundo during a January After Five gathering.
A special thank you to our January 2016 After Five hosts: Mariles Krok CMP, hosted at DoubleTree LAX – El Segundo, Amy Zelinsky, CMP and Mia McMahon, CMP for your fabulous support!
MPISCC Print & Online Directory! One of the largest annual benefits our members tell us is receiving the MPISCC member directory. Whether for sales or keeping in touch with industry peers, the MPISCC directory includes contact information for all current members of the chapter. Subscriber Members are also included in MPI Global’s online directory.
Upcoming After Fives: March 30 and May 25. Please check the MPISCC website for time and locations throughout Southern California.
Access to Chapter News! Subscriber Members receive all updates and news regarding upcoming meetings, events, industry trends, volunteer opportunities and much more.
#MPIafter5
4 sss ACTION ITEM sss For questions or information regarding membership and After Five sponsorship, please contact Michelle Conant, 949-400-4583, michelleconant@gmail.com.
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INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
AND
MEET, EAT, PLAY, MEET AGAIN.
(800) 648-2124
venturacountywest.com/meetings
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Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter
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DESTINATION
Ventura Hills and Harbor by Joe Virnig
TIPS
for Entertaining the Corporate Traveler in 2016
Memorable meetings are often as much about what happens around the event as what happens at the event. From farm-to-fork cuisine to extra-day stays, Ventura County West offers advice for attracting the corporate meeting attendee.
1. Inspire Within Your Destination The goal of any conference or company retreat is to educate, inspire and provide attendees with meaningful experiences. Keep in mind, corporate guests are also travelers who want to explore the destination to which their meeting has taken them. In the heart of California’s Central Coast, Ventura County West, made up of four unique city destinations — Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura and Port Hueneme (why-nee-mee) — is perfect for groups craving uninterrupted surf, sand, sunshine and shopping.
“What makes our destination so special is its small-town charm and exceptional hospitality,” says Rebekah Evans, Executive Director of the Ventura County Lodging Association (VCLA). “It truly is a breath of fresh air for organizations and groups that need to get away.” 14
2. Highlight Authentic Adventures The small town of Camarillo is brimming with history. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through Old Town and tour the impeccably- restored Camarillo Ranch House. Some other highlights include two pristine public golf courses and explore World War I & II aviation at the Commemorative Air Force Museum. In the casual seaside city of Oxnard, you will find an active boating harbor, the nation’s largest kosher winery, the world-class Mullin Automotive Museum, and a historic downtown bursting with multicultural flavors and
INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
Port Hueneme is a small seaside community nestled between Oxnard and Ventura. The 50-acre Hueneme Beach Park offers expansive beaches, sand volleyball and a quaint beachside promenade. There’s a lively arts and shopping scene in the area. That paired with fusion of agricultural abundance and ocean-side proximity makes it a chef’s paradise. The charming Ventura Harbor Village offers a waterfront promenade with boutique shops, popular restaurants and even a comedy club. Rent paddle boats, kayaks, electric boats, or hop on a charter boat with Island Packers to the Channel Islands National Park for whale watching, kayaking with Channel Islands Outfitters or Scarlett Belle & Blue Ocean Kayaking, as well as riverboating and island hiking. While out to see, enjoy a gourmet, locally-sourced catered lunch from Channel Islands Provisions.
panoramic shoreline views. The Wyndham Garden Ventura Pierpont Inn exudes whimsical charm with lush landscaping and craftsman-style architecture. The property features two 1925 English Tudor revival cottages and a 1935 Spanish Revival Banquet Center that sits atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Residence Inn by Marriott at River Ridge in Oxnard, adjacent to River Ridge Golf Course, is the perfect balance of work and play, with two pools, three spas, four lighted tennis courts, and outdoor patio with a fire pit. Convenient to local attractions, Hampton Inn & Suites Camarillo is the closest hotel to the Camarillo Premium Outlets, one of California’s hottest shopping destinations. The Holiday Inn Express Port Hueneme, steps from the gorgeous beaches, is a no-brainer for groups seeking rest and relaxation.
Photo by Doug Mangum
architectural treasures. Discover Channel Islands Harbor and find waterfront fun at Marine Emporium Landing.
Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach Kayaking at Channel Islands National Park
3. Offer Affordable Options for Guests to Stay an Extra Day More affordable than Los Angeles and closer than Santa Barbara, Ventura County West combines smalltown charm with big-city access and all the conveniences of a seasoned hospitality industry with more than 5,100 guest rooms and 200,000 square feet of meeting space within 60+ internationally-known hotel brands. The relaxing coastal destination offers competitive rates for prime meeting spaces and unique event venues such as beachfront/oceanview, historic, arts/ entertainment, museums, natural environments and full-service hotel conference centers. The Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach has 19,000 square feet of event space directly on the shores of the Santa Barbara Channel. Groups can book their event inside the newly-renovated Top of the Harbor ballroom, where guests are treated to 360-degree
4. Feature Farm-to-Fork Dining Located along an agricultural green-belt, Ventura County West is ideal for sampling fresh local seafood and locally-sourced produce. For a behind-the-scenes experience, the Ventura Food Tour gives foodies a chance to meet local chefs, chocolate makers, and brew masters. The outdoor farmers markets are popular for fresh seasonal produce, hand-crafted items, artisan cheeses, gourmet sauces and olive oil, plants and flowers. The Ventura County Wine Trail links 11 artisan wineries in Camarillo, Oxnard and Ventura that source premium grapes from vineyards all along the California coast. The wine trail has plentiful options for gourmet dining, such as the award-winning Tierra Sur, inside Herzog Wine Cellars.
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Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter
Oxnard’s multicultural influences and farming heritage make it a great place to try exciting Mexican, Brazilian, Thai and Italian dishes. The destination is quickly becoming known for its brew pubs and wine bars, like Twenty88 Wine Bistro in Old Town Camarillo.
5. Encourage Outdoor Exploration Groups can unwind with seaside activities such as sport fishing, whale watching, boat tours and cocktail cruises to inland adventures including golfing, go-kart racing, shopping and wine tasting.
At the San Buenaventura State Beach in Ventura, visitors can parasail over the ocean, bike along the promenade, paddle through the harbor and catch waves at Surfers Point. History buffs can tour Mission San Buenaventura, the ninth and last California mission founded by Padre Junípero Serra. How do you turn conferences, meetings and corporate retreats into an enjoyable experience that extend past the event? Share your tips with us!
River Ridge Golf Course in Oxnard Wine with a view in Ventura
Patio ambience at Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach For more information about places to go, things to do, and ideas about hosting a meeting or event, visit www.VenturaCountyWest.com/ meetings.
Follow us! @VisitVCWest
@VenturaCountyWest
Port Hueneme is a serene beach city whose name comes from the Chumash Indian word for resting place. True to its name, Port Hueneme Beach Park features a long strip of soft white sand and 50 acres of beautifully landscaped parkland with picnic areas, barbecue pits, volleyball nets and a pier that is popular among local fishermen. Those seeking leisure at its best can head to Camarillo, which has four golf courses, including two public courses open year round: Sterling Hills Golf Club and Camarillo Springs Public Golf Course.
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Just an hour north of Los Angeles, Ventura County West — encompassing the cities of Oxnard, Ventura, Camarillo, and Port Hueneme — offers a convenient getaway to the California coast, where yearround sunny skies meets seaside charm and inland adventure. Boasting a diverse natural landscape, thriving arts and cultural scene, plentiful shopping, historic sites, golf courses, and ingredient-driven dining fueled by its 125,000 acres of farms, orchards and vineyards, the region is the ultimate seaside escape for leisure travel, corporate retreats, sports travel and beyond.
INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
The Slate
The MPISCC Nominating Committee is pleased to announce the 2016-2017 slate for Board of Directors. President Nicole Newman, SearchWide
Director, Public Relations & Media Jeanna Harris, Salient Events
President Elect Joe Marcy, CMP, Monterey County CVB
Director, Strategic Sponsorship Akemi Shapiro, Crowne Plaza Hotel Ventura Beach
Immediate Past President Mariles Krok, CMP, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
Director, Special Events Nikki Wilbur, CMP, Paul Hastings, Director, Professional Development Margaret Garcia, CMP, CMM, Farmers Group, Inc.
Vice President, Finance Bryan Quinan, CMP, CTE, Milken Institute
Director, Member Recruitment Marcelle Moje, DMI Hotels
Vice President, Membership Carlos Murillo, Caesars Entertainment National Meetings & Events
Director, Member Care Anna Kim, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
Vice President, Communications Amani Roberts, The Amani Experience
Congratulations to the nominees and thank you to David Anderson, CMP, Immediate Past President and Nominating Committee Chair, and the Nominating Committee.
Vice President, Education Joe Martin, BDI Events Vice President, Leadership Development Shelley Grey, CMP, TCW
Corporate and Event Branding Visual design for Festivals, Conferences, Seminars, Trade Shows, and for those who create them. Print, Websites, Email, Signage, Social Media
Alvalyn Lundgren www.alvalyn.com alvalyn @ alvalyn.com 805.857.7981
@alvalyn
/AlvalynCreative
/Alvalyn
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/alvalyncreative
/AlvalynCreative
Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter EDUCATION
what we did at “My top take away from (We)Con is being reminded of the importance of introspection and how looking within can profoundly affect both our lives and our leadership abilities.” —Peter Brenner | Visit Temecula Valley
MPISCC hosted its first Weekend Educational
Morning activities included an invigorating beachside
Conference — (We)Con — in January as a new
yoga session on Friday, and an insightful Walk ‘n’ Talk
platform for MPISCC members to network and
on Saturday with MPISCC President, Mariles Krok.
receive valuable industry education, CE credits,
The evening concluded with a wine-tasting event at
and personal growth tools to improve their work-life
the Top Harbor room overlooking the beach.
balance. This year the event was hosted at and
Our Hosted Buyer program for this year’s event was
sponsored by the Crown Plaza Ventura Beach.
completely redesigned to build stronger connections
Attendees began the weekend festivities with
between suppliers and planners. Each supplier had
Thursday night’s “clambake” opening reception
twelve, 10-minute appointments with qualified
sponsored by the Crown Plaza Ventura Beach.
planners. In addition, an exclusive dinner was held
Attendees enjoyed an evening outdoors with the
on Friday evening at the Museum of Ventura
sounds of the waves complementing the music
County and sponsored by Visit Ventura as way for
provided by Hey Mister DJ and Scott Cummings
the hosted planners to get to know the participating
Music, as members networked with new contacts
suppliers on a more personal level.
and re-connected with fellow members.
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INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
The educational sessions provided a wonderful mix of industry insights and personal growth. Members were able to gain their education credits from valuable break-out sessions such as Arlene Sheff’s Food & Beverage: Strategies and Savings, Marcus Anthony Gray’s Behind Party Lines: What’s Trending in 2016, and Carl Christman’s How to Read Minds & Influence People. Personal growth sessions provided strong tools for members to implement at work or home. Dr. Judy Morley offered From Managing to Leading. Interactive drum sessions were the focus of Craig Miller’s and Nina Rodriguez’s The Rhythm of Inclusion. Insights about our industry and topics of wellbeing were presented by top-notch dynamic speakers including: Dan Quiggle Changing the World: Leaving a Lasting Legacy Paulette Lambert Health & Wellness on the Road Michael Dominguez Understanding Your Leverage Joshua Medcalf Chop Wood, Carry Water: How to Fall in Love with the Process of Becoming Great
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Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter EDUCATION
(We)Con concluded with Be in the Know, Ahead of the Game and Take the Lead in Our Industry, a Ted Talk-style triple-play of speakers. Bryan Churchill of LATCB presented global and local events and policies affecting our industry here in Southern California. David Adler of BizBash shared his predictions for the meetings and events industry in 2016 and beyond. Stephen Hahn of Marriott identified current trends in venues and hotels coming down the pipeline. Overall the weekend truly brought the attendees, both members and non-members, closer together, which will in turn hopefully create more business for our colleagues here in Southern California. Stay tuned for information coming soon about the next (WE)Con that will take place early in 2017.
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INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016
Thank you to our amazing (WE)Con sponsors: PLATINUM LEVEL
Ventura County West CONFERENCE VENUE SPONSOR
Crown Plaza Ventura Beach GOLD LEVEL
Four Seasons Hotel - Westlake Village Caesars Entertainment SILVER LEVEL
Visit Las Vegas Visit Ventura AUDIO VISUAL
A.V. Masters MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
Hey Mister DJ Scott Cummings Music
THANKS TO THE (WE)CON COMMITTEE Joe Martin, Director of Professional Development, MPISCC, & Partner at BDI Events
HOSTED BUYER SPONSORS Accor Hotels Allegretto Vineyard Resort Atlantis Casino Resort & Spa Blue Man Group – Las Vegas Creative Coverings Encore Productions Four Brix Wineries Grand Sierra Resort Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board Love Light Yoga Main Course California Catering Marina Del Rey Convention & Visitors Bureau Museum of Ventura County Pali Retreat & Kinetic Teambuilding Plan B Wine Cellars Reno-Tahoe USA Sonoma County Tourism Board The Garland
Nikki Wilbur, CMP, Co-Chair & Events Senior Coordinator at Paul Hastings Rosa Navas, Co-Chair, Chair of MPISCC Member Care & Marketing Manager at La Opinión Brandon Tallman, Account Manager at A.V. Masters Kristin Twombly, CMP, Senior Event Planner at Capital Group Jeanna Harris, Event Planner at Salient Events Josephine Falvo National Sales Manager, Allegretto Vineyard Resort Lucille McGovern Williams, Vice President of Business Development at Radar 360 Natalie Hagee, CMP, Special Events Sales Manager at Warner Bros. Special Events Sandy Gimpelson, Event Manager at Sandpiper, Meetings, Events & More Sarah Diem, Event Manager at Scott Cummings Music Shelley Grey, CMP, Vice President, Meetings & Events at TCW Tammy Dickerson, CMP, President, The Baker Group
Travel Tacoma
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Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter LEADERSHIP
MEMBER CARE
Member Care is a chapter leadership role that encourages member participation and retention. Member Care coordinates new member orientation and After 5 gatherings. Ultimately, the idea is to facilitate the professional growth of every member through service opportunities and awareness of industry events that might impact their livelihood. Get to know your Member Care leaders for 2015-2016 with a little Q&A:
RENEWALS COMMITTEE CHAIR
AFTER FIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER CARE
Natalie Hagee, CMP Special Events Sales Manager Warner Bros. Special Events
Elizabeth Brazil Independent Planner, ERB Events
Michelle Conant LuxBus America
What do you love about MPI? I am fortunate to have made wonderful connections both personally and professionally. Some of my best clients and cherished friendships began with networking through MPISCC.
What do you love about MPI? I love MPI, and specifically our chapter, because of the amazing educational and networking opportunities. At any given event I can sit at a table with individuals who have over 100+ years of combined experience in the meeting planning industry.
What do you love about MPI? I love MPI because it allows me insight into areas in our industry that I may not work directly with. Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I started my event planning career by being part of my high school prom committee!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself! I am a bit of an adventure hound. I love white water rafting (class 4) among other things. And this past year I was able to achieve a 30+ year bucket list dream, through an auction item I bought at an MPISCC annual fundraiser. I was able to try my hand at Olympic bobsledding in Park City, UT with 1996 Olympic Silver Medalist Shauna Rohbock piloting the sled — twice! It was excellent!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself! My first job out of college was working at a resort in the Caribbean , teaching sailing & windsurfing lessons to guests.
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sss ACTION ITEM sss For questions or information regarding membership and After Five events, please contact Michelle Conant, 949-400-4583, michelleconant@gmail.com. 22
INTERCOM | Volume 120 March/April 2016 EDUCATION
Thank You OUR MPISCC STRATEGIC PARTNERS
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PO Box 5603, Pasadena, CA 91117
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Beverly J. Laing Golf Tournament 3.14.2016 Los Coyotes Country Club Meeting Planning Basics & Beyond 3.21 & 4.29, 2016 The Concourse Hotel at LAX MPISCC After Five 3.30.2016 Various locations throughout SoCal State of the Industry Networking & Program 4.12.2016 Location to be announced Gary J Rosenberg Scholarship Deadline 4.15.2016 mpiscc.org/membership/rosenberg-cmp-scholarship/ Annual Gala & Installation 6.23.2016 Location to be announced
INTERCOM
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