Carolina Blitz August-September 2018

Carolina Blitz August - September 2018

New Member Spotlight Brandon Crumpton Page 8

CAROLINAS CHAPTER

The Westin Charlotte Charlotte, NC September 20-21, 2018

in this issue...

features Exhibitor Promo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Special Recognition Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Planner Invite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

in every issue Our Annual Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Our Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Monthly Meeting Planner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 MPI-CC Board & Committee Chairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 New Member Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Education. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Look Who We Spotted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 News You Can Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

f11photo

Board Meeting Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23

Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018 |

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

Diamond Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors:

Silver Sponsors:

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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

our members Welcome New Members!

Maggie Denny Friday Conference Center erasmusgrad@gmail.com

Allana Outlaw, MPA Friday Conference Center allana.o.smith@gmail.com

Michelle VonCannon, CSEP North Carolina Biotechnology Center michelle_voncannon@ncbiotech.org

Kathryn Dewey Explore Asheville KDewey@ExploreAsheville.com

Daniel Sams dan@trianglepride.com

Debra Watkins Friday Conference Center watkinsd@email.unc.edu

Michelle Doggett mgdoggett@hotmail.com

Joel Smith Wilmington and Beaches CVB jsmith@wilmingtonandbeaches.com

Kelli Donahue Chiesi USA, Inc. kelli.donahue@chiesi.com

Traci Sowards SAS Institute, Inc traci.sowards@sas.com

Pamela Folsom pam@academicfieldtrips.net

Quiana Tyson Duke University qmtyson@gmail.com

Sherri Griffis Marriott International sherri.griffis@marriott.com Emily Jones Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP emily.jones@dhgllp.com

Missy Weld Speakers Network Worldwide missy@snwspeakers.com Kathy Wilkes Blackbaud, Inc. kathy.wilkes@blackbaud.com

Stephen Valliere The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa stephenrvalliere@gmail.com

MPI-CC Anniversaries

Danielle Watson Friday Conference Center dwatson7@email.unc.edu

Ashley Womble, PMP Linen & Glass ashley.womble@linenandglass.com

First Timers and New Members at the July Mixer

10 Years Crystal Porter, CMP TechMedia 5 Years Selah Bideau, TMP Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Carolyn Ent Elon University Barbara Evans Burroughs Wellcome Fund Sharon Sparrow Lawyers Mutual Liability Insurance Company Leah Winstead, CMP APEX Analytix

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

Back row: Lathy Williams – Ignition Event Group; Steve Brogan – Steve Brogan & Company; Donna Ivey – Bermuda Run Country Club; Kelley Ann Gregory – UNC General Administration; Floyd Chavis – Blue Diamond Transportation; Joe Smith – Westin Charlotte; Kathryn Dewey – Explore Asheville CVB; LaChianti Bromell – APEX Analytix; Emily Jones – Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP Middle row: Pam Folsom – Academic Tours; Kelli Donahue – Chiesi USA, Inc.; P Renee Moore – Duke University; Teresa Goins – The Conference Center at GTCC; Dawn Shriver – Wake Forest University School of Business; Janice Wright – JW Events Group; Olivia Terrell – Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville; Lindsay Harris - Spartanburg Marriott; Yolanda Diaz – DoubleTree by Hilton Raleigh Brownstone-University Front row: Brandon Crumpton – Key Signature Entertainment; Gregory Hunt – Marine Corps League

Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018 |

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monthly meeting planner September 20-21, 2018

March 28-29, 2019

Education & Business Exchange Charlotte, NC The Westin Charlotte

November 8-9, 2018

BrianAJackson/iStock/Thinkstock

Chapter Meeting Spartanburg, SC Spartanburg Marriott

Chapter Meeting Charlotte, NC Crowne Plaza Executive Park

May - coming soon!

July 18-19, 2019

North Charleston, SC North Charleston Marriott

January 24-25, 2019

September - coming soon!

November 7-8, 2019

Chapter Meeting Durham, NC JB Duke Hotel

Charlotte, NC Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte

Reminder: Deadline for submissions for the next Carolina Blitz is September 28, 2018.

Please submit any articles or photographs to be considered for publication to Editor-In-Chief Cathy Mauldin, CMP, at cathymauldin@gmail.com.

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.

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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

ReinventYourMeeting.com

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president’s message

Conquer your fears!

by Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP

Do you know what makes me happy? People like Malinda and Mica (right), who I have met through MPI-CC that have become not only dependable colleagues but also wonderful friends who will help me through anything and encourage me along the way. MPI-CC is so much more than education and networking. I’ve made some pretty amazing friendships through our wonderful

More than colleagues: Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE, Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP, and Mica Parekh, CMP

organization and that happened because I chose to step out of my comfort zone and get involved. Staying in your comfort zone will never bring change. I remember walking into my first meeting in Charlotte 13 years ago, not knowing anyone, thinking “What in the world did I just get myself into?” The room was packed and I chose a seat in the very back of the room. I sat through that meeting and left still not really knowing anyone, although I spoke to a few very welcoming people while I was there. It became very clear to me that I needed to take control of my membership and make it everything I wanted. I stepped up and took over planning the Dream Team events (who remembers those??). That was one of the best decisions I’ve made. I began to intimately know more people and feel much more comfortable at our events.

My suggestion to you, if you find yourself in the same situation as I was, is to take a chance. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and do something new. Go up to someone you don’t know and say hello. Join a committee that you haven’t worked on and get to know more about our chapter. Come to a board meeting and meet the team that’s leading us through the next year. We all have fears and the only way to break through them is to have confidence in yourself and guide your own destiny. No one is going to do it for you.

Alison

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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 Chair Needed

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@ wrightsville.holidayinnresorts.com

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

Silent Auction Committee Chair Needed

XCHANGE Committee Barbara Dragan VisitGreenvilleSC 864-421-0000 bdragan@visitgreenvillesc.com

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

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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

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

Awards Committeer 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

Member Engagement Committee Jamie Frydlo Hotel Indigo Raleigh Durham Airport @ RTP 919-294-9873 jfrydlo@bluegrasshotels.com

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

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new member spotlight New Member Spotlight: Brandon Crumpton

by Selah Bideau, TMP

My favorite part of MPI Chapter Meetings is getting to know our New Members! Our fantastic members are definitely what make us a successful chapter.

Please take a minute to read and learn a little about Brandon Crumpton. We are so happy to have him as a member of the MPI-CC team!

Brandon Crumpton

Where do you currently work and how long have you been there?

I started Key Signature Entertainment nine years ago.

Tell me about your job and the organization you are with.

Services offered by Key Signature Entertainment include band booking, research, vetting, and concert production. Our specialty is taking your ideas and creating a live music experience for both you and your guests to enjoy.

Key Signature Entertainment is a company of musicians who book musicians. Our motto is “Good People, Good Music.” We understand that we are in the people business first and the music business second.

We’ve created an easy process to find, secure, and contract the right entertainment for your event.

What are your hobbies and what do you do for fun?

My goal every day is to go home, have dinner with my wife, and binge watch a show on Netflix.

Why did you join MPI-CC? I heard great things about MPI-CC for years. I was on the International Live Events Association (ILEA) Charlotte board for nine years. It was time to make some new friends.

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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

If you were able to meet a famous person, alive or dead, who would it be and why?

Kevin Federline! I would just ask him “WHY!?!”

What advice would you give someone interested in pursuing a career in our industry?

Begin with the end in mind. n

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

You too may have your own revelation.

In National Geographic Traveler’s “20 Must-See Places for 2016” issue, Greenville, SC was revealed in 11 colorful pages, each celebrating its “magnetic downtown” and “visionary locals.” From scrappy startups to 40 Fortune 500 companies, there are plenty of reasons why companies are setting down roots in this “unlikely pocket of the country.” Greenville is a place where new ideas come to life and grow into the next big thing. So, the next time you plan a meeting, seek inspiration in a place where “people love ideas” and there’s “room for ambitions to grow.” You, too, will soon understand why more and more groups are “going Greenville.” Come curious, leave enlightened.

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 | August - September 2018 |

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education Looking Ahead at September 2018 MPI-CC Education

by Wendy Jeffries

Education sessions for the MPI-CC 2018 Carolinas’ XCHANGE will offer an interactive format for planners and suppliers to share their meeting expertise, discuss future trends, and to prepare for upcoming industry developments and government initiatives that will impact how we do business. The Westin Charlotte, located in the heart of uptown, will host the September 20-21, 2018 meeting in Charlotte, N.C.

A WHOLE NEW VIEW ON MEETINGS It Comes Naturally.

Thursday afternoon, MPI-CC welcomes planners and those suppliers that exhibit in the XCHANGE to enjoy a live interview show, ‘Inside the Buyers/Sellers Studio,' produced by MPI-CC! Join your colleagues for some fun as the show’s host asks meeting industry trailblazers for their candid confessions, deepest thoughts, and insight on their perspective business strategies. This session is being sponsored by ATG Entertainment.

Friday morning, Deborah Gardner, CMP will update attendees on Meeting Mega Trends, to include forecast, statistics, and what threats there may be on the horizon for the meeting industry. Immediately following the morning session, Deborah will lead participants in an interactive discussion on internal and external factors that impact your business, the current economic environment, meeting design, and content delivery.

Deborah Gardner, CMP is one of seven CMP speakers globally to have received the prestigious industry credential. Deborah is a “Meetings Mean Business” advocate; most requested speaker by MPI; voted as one of the best speakers heard by Meetings & Convention Magazine; Event Industry Council’s Top 30 Influential Meeting Professionals, and has been recognized within the Top 50 Smart Women Leaders by Smart Meetings Magazine.

The September MPI-CC Carolinas’ XCHANGE Educate. Experience. Entertain. n

Wendy Jeffries HelmsBriscoe MPI-CC Education Chair

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Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

THE WEST BEACH CONFERENCE CENTER 24,000+ SF STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY OPENING FALL 2019

Call 800.576.1585 to schedule your site visit… and lead your team to success

EXPLORE OUR EXCITING NEW ISLAND-WIDE EXPANSION TODAY G ROUP FACILITIE S TE AM- B UILDIN G 5 G OLF COU R SES 1 0 - MILE B E ACH VILLAS TH E SAN CTUARY LE SS TH AN 3 0 MILE S F ROM H ISTORIC CH ARLESTON

Proud Host of the 2021 PGA Championship

Publication: MPI Carolinas Size: 3.5 x 9.5” Job#:142-8869 Run Date: April/May 2018 Dana Communications 609.466.9187

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.

Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018 |

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Look Who We Spotted at the...

... Marriott Twin C 12

| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

City Quarter and Benton Convention Center in July!

Photography by Mica Parekh – IWP Photography

news you can use CMP Study Group MPI-CC members Jennifer Kist, CMP (MHI) and Farrah Staub, CMP (Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley) are cochairs of the Professional Certifications Committee.

Together, they organize a seven-week study program for CMP applicants. During study sessions, held via conference calls, candidates review actual practice questions from the Events Industry Council (EIC) and go over weekly skills assignments. Candidates can also ask their burning questions of someone who has fresh memories of exam day stress and the exhilaration of receiving their gold star when they have a Q&A session with a recent CMP Study Group graduate.

The CMP Study Group is complimentary for MPI Members and only $150 for Non-Members.

May 2018 CMP Study Group

Sessions are offered four times during the year and meet virtually. The CMP Study Group for the November 2018 exam starts the week of September 10, 2018. Contact Jennifer (jkist@mhi.org) or Farrah (Farrah.staub@ marriott.com) for more information.

We applaud these amazing CMP Study Group alumni and talented meeting professionals on their achievement.

The CMP credential is recognized globally as the badge of excellence in the meeting, convention, exhibition, and event industry. The qualifications for certification are based on professional experience, education, and a rigorous exam. Congratulations to you all! n

Candidate --> CMP

Company

Sasha Armour, CMP

Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley

Elizabeth Green, CMP

Duke Law School

Adelle Heinz, CMP

Wells Fargo

Tarshi McCoy, CMP

Greenville-Pitt County CVB

K. Bailey Morris, CMP

Tampa Convention Center

Sarah Small, CMP

NC Realtors

Member Alan Kleinfeld Speaks at WEC18 New chapter member Alan Kleinfeld, CMP, CMM recently presented three sessions on safety and risk management at WEC18 in June. Maybe you caught one of his sessions: 360 Approach to Risk Management; Site Selection and Security; or You Don't Need to be a Hero. You Just Need to be Ready: Creating an Emergency Action Plan. With a Masters in Tourism Administration and experience galore, his workshops always offer keen insight and guidance in the ever-changing world of security. Alan is an adjunct professor at the College of Charleston and finds time to work for the Folly Beach Police Department as the Accreditation and Ordinance Officer when he’s not planning meetings. He is also a member of the Risk Management and Security Task Force for MPI Global and often writes for The Meeting Professional, Convene, Smart Meetings, and Associations Now. Member Alan Kleinfeld teaching session

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Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

If you have news we can use, please send to cathymauldin@gmail.com. n

Hey planners! IMEX America is right around the corner!

And, once again, MPI has lined up outstanding networking opportunities and unsurpassed educational sessions.

Over one hundred educational sessions are included in your IMEX registration. Keynote speakers Julius Solaris, Kelly McDonald, and Paul Smith will motivate you to be more mindful and creative with your events and with your leadership skills. In addition, three certificate courses have been added to IMEX America this year – Healthcare Meeting, Women in Leadership, and Crisis Communications.

These courses are offered before the general session, October 14-15, and require additional registration.

Click here for more information on IMEX America.

RECHARGE

H O P, S K I P,

YOUR MEETING EXPERIENCE IN HICKORY

and a

JUMP visitgreenvillenc.com/meetings

We’re not out of the way. We’re out of the ordinary.

Tarshi McCoy CMP, CHSP, TMP Director, Sales & Services 252-329-4200 tarshi@visitgreenvillenc.com

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

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MEET AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL. Greensboro offers the perfect combination of small town charm and big city appeal.

See what’s new in Greensboro! You will be surprised by all it has to offer.

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Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

visitgreensboronc.com

CAROLINAS CHAPTER

IN TO CHARLOTTE MOTOR S P E E D WAY THEME WITH YO U B E I N G THE PIT STOP! No pipe, no drape, no 6 foot table, just you, your popup display or info on a high top table.

Prepare a short pitch at your pit stop and then get one-on-one time with planners who want to BUY MPI!

THE WESTIN CHARLOTTE

T H U R S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 0 T H | 4 P. M . - 6 : 3 0 P. M .

R E S E R V E Y O U R “ P O L E P O S I T I O N ” E A R LY T O S A V E .

Includes registration for Chapter meeting and education.

All exhibitors are encouraged to donate a stay / package / basket to encourage planner attendance. We will be awarding these packages to planners throughout the XCHANGE.

XCHANGE Exhibitor- Member: $500 XCHANGE Exhibitor- Non-Member: $650 XCHANGE Exhibitor- Annual Sponsor: $450 XCHANGE Program Sponsor - $1,000 XCHANGE Break Sponsor - $500 (Additional $100 if not registered and paid by August 20th after 6pm.)

Don’t be a “back marker” and fall to the back of the pack! Sign up today for exhibitor registration or reach out to Barb Dragan, Committee Chair, with any questions at bdragan@visitgreenvillesc.com or 864-704-6851.

SEE YOU IN THE WINNER’S CIRCLE! AV provided by

Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018 |

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SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARDS

by Alyce Kelly, CHSP

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Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

It was a privilege and an honor to serve as your 20172018 MPI-CC President. I was equally honored to present the following awards during our Awards Banquet in May to members that show enduring loyalty to our chapter.

Corey D. Bizzell Award

Christine Irwin, CMP, and Sarah Johnson Christine and Sarah represent everything that this award exemplifies – a superior level of excellence.

And, they do it every day for our chapter. I didn’t think twice about this award. I have known for years what Christine has done for our chapter. She always looks at the big picture.

Christine was actually terrified to tell me she was Christine Irwin going to be on maternity leave when I took the Office of President. Little did we all know that a blond spitfire would step right in and keep us all in check until Christine came back. It’s been a pleasure to watch Sarah realize her goals. The two of them together are a terrific duo that complement each other, and we are lucky to have them.

Christine Irwin, CMP, has worked with The Management Office (TMO) for nine years and has served as the Chapter Administrator for MPI-Carolinas Chapter since May 2010. She is instrumental in managing the chapter, working day in and day out with the Board of Directors, preparing budgets and financial reports, managing the website and communications, as well as handling dayto-day member requests.

Sarah Johnson has been with The Management Office since 2016. She manages event planning for MPICarolinas Chapter meetings, registration and onsite meeting logistics, website updates and day-to-day member requests.

Sarah Johnson

The Bizzell Award of Excellence was created in

memory of Corey D. Bizzell, a longtime member of the Carolinas Chapter of MPI. Corey exemplified excellence and dedication, not only to the chapter, but in every aspect of his life. Bizzell was a constant advocate of elevating our meetings industry to the next level. In honor of his legacy, the President may award a chapter member who has demonstrated a superior level of excellence, passion, and leadership in their service to MPI-CC. (For a list of previous award recipients click here.)

President’s Award

Amelia Hodges

Amelia Hodges, CMP, CMM Amelia is the one person that stood out in my mind when I thought of this award. When people ask me: “Why MPI?” I simply tell them: It’s my investment in my continuing education. Period. In my opinion we have the best education out there -- thanks to leaders like Amelia and MPI Global.

Amelia has taken it on herself to search out speakers, qualify them, and negotiate on behalf of the chapter.

She does all this in addition to her day job as Director of Professional Development for the N.C. Association of CPA’s.

And, she does it with a grace that I respect and admire.

Amelia Hodges has managed events and facility logistics for the N.C. Association of CPA’s for over ten years and has been active in the MPI-Carolinas Chapter for six years. She has served as Chair of the Certified Meeting Professional study group, Director of Education, VP of Education and is currently VP of Membership. Her careful attention to detail in her day job transfers to the chapter when she handles our speaker selections.

The President’s Award is selected by the current Chapter President. This is not a mandatory award that must be given each year, but it is at the discretion of the Chapter President. It goes to a Chapter member whom the President feels has given 110% to MPI-CC during his/her membership and may be awarded at any bi-monthly meeting and/or at the annual meeting. (For a list of previous award recipients click here.) n

Alyce Kelly, CHSP The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores MPI-CC Immediate Past President

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H T T P S : / / W W W. M P I W E B . O R G / C H A P T E R S / C A R O L I N A S / E D U C AT I O N - E V E N T S / E V E N T / 2 0 1 8 / 0 9 / 2 0 / M P I - G LO B A L- C A L E N DA R / 2 0 1 8 - C A R O L I N A S ' -XC H A N G E - - - E D U C AT E . - E X P E R I E N C E . - E N T E R TA I N

C L I C K H E R E TO R E D E E M YO U R F R E E T I C K E T !

CAROLINAS CHAPTER

IN AND VISIT WITH “DRIVERS” I N T H E H O S P I TA L I T Y I N D U S T RY Start your engines with top rated education

3 : 0 0 P. M . - 4 : 0 0 P. M .

MPI Feud! game show is coming to the Carolinas Chapter and welcomes you to participate while contributing in a very interactive team format. The show’s surprise host will conduct challenging questions about the meetings industry, culture, history, pop music, people, places and more. Test your knowledge and wisdom and win!

This fascinating educational format will help you network, collaborate, hear different perspectives for your everyday business strategies. Check out to know if you are eligible below and join in on this fast pace, fun and informative live show that will be conducted at the Westin Charlotte from 3:00pm-4:00pm on Thursday, September 20, 2018. Up for the challenge?

Sponsored by ATG Entertainment Eligibility Game Participants: • Must be an MPI XCHANGE attendee!

• Must be a fun and creative person!

• Must be an energetic team player!

• Must be ready to play to win prizes!

(This program has been submitted to the Events Industry Council for CMP Continuing Education Credits.)

S P E E D W AY S E T I N M O T I O N 4 : 0 0 P. M . - 6 : 3 0 P. M .

Race on in and visit with “Drivers” in the hospitality industry to learn new ways to enhance your attendees' experiences.

More than 40 “Drivers” to visit, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, Florida, Tennessee and others. > > > > > > > EVERYONE WINS THE RACE WITH PRIZES AND GIVEAWAYS < < < < < < <

MPI CAROLINAS CHAPTER

2018 CAROLINAS’ XCHANGE

T H U R S D AY, S E P T E M B E R 2 0 T H 4 P. M . - 6 : 3 0 P. M . | W E S T I N C H A R L O T T E

C L I C K H E R E TO R E G I S T E R Free for Meeting & Event Planners AV provided by

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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

©2018 Pinehurst, LLC

Meetings were held here long before clubs.

Pinehurst may be known for twosomes and foursomes, but we were welcoming groups of all sizes before our first golf course was ever built. We’ve been hosting successful meetings and events for companies large and small since 1895.

And we’d love to host yours. Consider Pinehurst for your next corporate function.

You’ll find our meetings as legendary as our golf.

Kimberly Bryan, Senior Director of National Accounts Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina • 800.659.4653 • pinehurst.com

18PNH018.CarolinasMPIFebMarch.indd 1

1/19/18 8:42 AM

Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018 |

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board meeting highlights Board of Directors Meeting Minutes July 19, 2018 | Winston-Salem, NC

by Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office

Attendees: John Cruz, CMM; Michelle Castro; Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP; Vince Chelena; Christine Irwin, CMP; Maureen Donovan; Mica Parekh, CMP; Nicole Keshler; Alyce Kelly, CHSP; Nicole Filippo, CMP Excused Absences: Ricardo Hicks; Chris Chassagneux, CMP; Deanna Griffith-House, CMP, CMM, GWPgM, CME, PMP, PCM; Amelia Hodges, CMP, CMM; Selah Bideau, TMP Introductions: Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP, welcomed the group and went around the room highlighting achievements of each department year-to-date. Alison announced that Chris Chassagneux, CMP, will be dropping off the board and we will not be filling his position for the time being. We have a strong committee chair for the XCHANGE and she will report to Selah and Maureen.

Basecamp: Christine Irwin, CMP, did a demo of “Basecamp,” a project management software. Christine is strongly recommending the board consider using it for productivity and succession planning.

Motion: Nicole Keshler made a motion to purchase Basecamp for the year.

Second: John Cruz, CMM Vote: Approved Financials: Maureen Donovan presented the June P&L (end of year statement), balance sheet and aging report.

She announced that we were able to exceed budget and put $6,800 back into reserves this year.

Motion: Alyce Kelly, CHSP, made a motion to approve the June P&L, Balance Sheet and Aging Report as presented.

Second: John Cruz, CMM Vote: Approved Minutes: Alyce Kelly, CHSP, presented the minutes from the May 16, 2018, Board of Directors Meeting.

Motion: Alyce Kelly, CHSP, made a motion to approve the May 16, 2018, Board of Directors Meeting Minutes as presented.

Second: Nicole Keshler Vote: Approved Chapter Office Report: Christine Irwin, CMP, presented the June year-end metrics report. We will hear from

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| Carolina Blitz | August - September 2018

Global soon as to how we closed out the year in regards to our performance standards. Christine is working with Global to get our new website launched in the next week, so please be on the look out for more information there. The printed directory is also in the final stages of production and will be mailed out at the end of the month. Christine reviewed the July chapter meeting agenda and room locations.

Member Engagement & Volunteers: Nicole Filippo, CMP, reminded everyone to review the current volunteer list that was sent out and send her any updates to your committees.

Consent Agenda: Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP, asked for a motion to approve the consent agenda.

Motion: Alyce Kelly, CHSP, made a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented.

Second: John Cruz, CMM Vote: Approved Marketing: Mica Parekh, CMP, requested that the board complete the answers to the board profile questions and send back to her as soon as possible. The MarComm calendar is a project that is in the works and they'd have that ready for everyone soon. Please continue to send all MMM updates to Mica on a weekly basis.

XCHANGE: Maureen Donovan reported that the theme for the September XCHANGE will be “racing.” The team is working on a creative piece to send out to suppliers and planners. The XCHANGE will be broken up into “villages” similar to how MPI did WEC this year. Each exhibitor will have time to present to the planners on behalf of their organization, mixed in with a standard tradeshow format.

Each exhibitor will be encouraged to donate a package from their property to encourage planner attendance.

May Meeting Survey Results: Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP, reviewed the results from the May Meeting survey and addressed feedback with the Board. Our keynote speaker, Janine Driver, was really well received. Kudos to the education team for putting together a great education program.

2019 Meeting Locations: Christine Irwin, CMP, presented updates on outstanding 2019 meeting bids. The following dates and locations are proposed:

March 28-29, 2019 – Crowne Plaza Charlotte May 19-20, 2019 – Asheville Renaissance Hotel (back to Sunday-Monday pattern) September 19-20, 2019 – Embassy Suites Cary Motion: Deanna House, CMP, CMM, GWPgM, CME, PMP, PCM, made a motion to approve the March, May and September meeting dates and locations as presented.

Second: John Cruz, CMM Vote: Approved Board Role Review: Alison Harding, CMP, CMM, GTP, opened the floor up to any board members that had any outstanding questions regarding their new board roles.

Next Board Meeting: The next board meeting will be held on September 20, 2018, at the Westin Charlotte in Charlotte, NC. With this taking place before the XCHANGE, the board meeting will be held at 10 a.m. rather than our typical 2 p.m. start time.

Meeting Adjourned. n

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

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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; Alyce Kelly, CHSP, The Inn at Pine Knoll Shores; Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Company; Selah Bideau, TMP, Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte; Wendy Jeffries, HelmsBriscoe 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; Lynn Rich, CMP, American Express Meetings & Events; 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

September 20-21, 2018 The Westin Charlotte Charlotte, 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!