Carolina BlitzApril - May 2016

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa May 9-10, 2016 | Hilton Head Island, SC

Carolina Blitz

Tenessa MooreNew Member Spotlight

Page 8

April - May 2016

We think you’re pretty super. When life hands you challenging budgets, you make remarkable things happen. You’re a solver of problems, a dodger of disaster, a wrangler of technology. Though you’re just one person, you manage to be everywhere at once. You’re the creative force making sure everything gets done and everyone stays happy. And somehow you do it all without ever breaking a sweat.

Dear Superhero,(that’d be you)

We realize you have endless options when it comes to planning your next meeting or event,

but you’ll find more than a destination in Greenville, SC. You’ll find the extra dose of mojo you

need to accomplish something truly super. (Cape optional.)

800.351.7180

Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 1

in this issue...

in every issue

features

Let’s See MPI! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Introducing the 2016-2017 MPI-CC Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Does This Excuse Make My BUT Look Big? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

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

News You Can Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

Look Who We Spotted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13

Board Meeting Highlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21-22

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2 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

MPI-CC THANKSOUR ANNUAL SPONSORS!

We Appreciate Your Support!

Silver Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors:

Diamond Sponsor:

Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 3

our members

Welcome New Members!Alison Bosiger Marriott RTP alison .bosiger@marriott .com

Garrett Brown ON Event Services gbrown@oneventservices .com

Mamie Bush Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront/Downtown mamie .bush@hilton .com

Judy Clark UNC-Charlotte jcclark11@carolina .rr .com

Christina DeHaven, CMP Grass Roots Meetings & Events, Inc christina .dehaven@grg .com

Beth Denny, CMP FirstPoint Management Resources bdenny103@gmail .com

Kelly Henninger Sheraton Charlotte and Le Meridien Charlotte kelly .henninger@ sheratoncharlottehotel .com

Michelle Jones mrj24@duke .edu

Mary Kernan SAS Institute Inc . Mary .kernan@sas .com

Makeda Pride The Special Event Company makeda@specialeventco .com

Patrick Ridgeway Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville PRidgeway@ashevillecp .com

Charlene Skelton Student - UNCC cwskelt@gmail .com

Lynn Skinner The Rizzo Conference Center lskinner@destinationhotels .com

Chris Stone VisitGreenvilleSC cstone@visitgreenvillesc .com

Page Trimble Gather Digital page@gatherdigital .com

Morgan Wallace, CMP Wells Fargo morgan .wallace@wellsfargo .com

Ken Weisner Recipe for Success ken@recipeforsuccess .com

MPI-CC Anniversaries15 years

Yvonne Patton, CMP, CMMHamner Conference Center

5 yearsKim DaRoja

Myrtle Beach Area CVB

Heidi HelmsSirona Dental Systems LLC

Christopher Hendrix, CMPCharleston Area CVB

Donna Riggs NC Retired Governmental Employees Assn.

Stephanie Risbon, CMPDuke University

Erin Tate, CTESprint

L . Danielle WigginsNESCent/Duke University

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

(Left to right)

Jeff Alfonso, Alfonso Interpreting

Tenessa Moore, Moore Creative Ink, Inc.

Danielle Murnieks, Displays Unlimited

Maria Rodillo, AgFirst Farm Credit Bank

Amber Howard, Hickory Metro CVB

Patrick Ridgeway, Crowne Plaza Resort Asheville

First Timers andNew Members at the

March Mixer

Winner of the ConventionSouth Readers’ Choice AwardVoted as one of the 10 most beautiful towns in NC

Your next greatmeeting is juststeps away.V i s i t N e w B e r n . c o m

Winner of the ConventionSouth Readers’ Choice AwardVoted as one of the 10 most beautiful towns in NC

The best places to holdmeetings can often bethe best kept secrets.V i s i t N e w B e r n . c o m

4 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

May 9-10, 2016

Annual Meeting

Hilton Head Island, SC

The Westin Hilton Head Island

Resort & Spa

June 11-14, 2016

MPI World Education Congress

Atlantic City, New Jersey

July 14-15, 2016

Chapel Hill, NC

The Carolina Inn

September 15-16, 2016

Education & Business Exchange

Raleigh, NC

Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley

November 3-4, 2016

Concord, NC

Great Wolf Lodge – Charlotte/Concord

Reminder: Deadline for submissions for the next Carolina Blitz is May 20 2016 . Please submit any articles or photographs to be considered for publication to Editor-In-Chief Ginny Fountain, CMP, CMM, at Ginny .Fountain@ncemcs .com .

monthly meeting planner

Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 5

president’s message

When we meet, we change the world! by Christian Schroeder

“When We Meet, We Change The World” - do you recall seeing this video released a

few years ago by Meeting Professionals International? It is very inspiring as meetings

throughout history are showcased as examples of our industry’s impact on the

evolution of society . Meetings create environments to develop relationships, grow

professionally, innovate and achieve results while having a positive economic impact

in communities .

Our industry has been communicating the value that business meetings, travel and

events bring to the United States economy . One form of communication is through the

celebration of Meetings Industry Day . In 2016, this event evolved into Global Meetings

Industry Day (GMID) . Through the efforts of MPI-CC and our advocacy committee,

GMID was celebrated with other association partners at multiple locations throughout

the Carolinas .

It is evident that meetings have a tremendous impact on the world collectively, but

also on individuals . Meetings provide opportunities for personal and professional

development . Our MPI-CC events offer individuals great education with the ability to

network . As we continue to learn and exchange ideas with one another, we are able to

grow and achieve new successes . This would not be possible without you!

Thank you for being a part of MPI-CC and contributing to positively impact individuals

so that collectively we can excel to better serve . We look forward to seeing you at our

next MPI-CC meeting as we continue to change the world! n

Christian SchroederVisit Winston-Salem

2015-2016 MPI-CC President

6 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

President Christian Schroeder Visit Winston-Salem 336-728-4218 Christian@ visitwinstonsalem .com

President-Elect Barbara Dragan The Westin Charlotte 704-335-2114 Barbara .Dragan@westin .com

Immediate Past President Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE Greater Raleigh CVB 919-645-2668 mharrell@visitraleigh .com

Administration

VP of Membership Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, CMM Global Knowledge 919-461-8698 Alison .Harding@ globalknowledge .com

Director of Leadership & Volunteer Development Nicole Robinson Greater Raleigh CVB 919-645-2682 nrobinson@visitraleigh .com

Awards Committee Co-Chair Wendy Bassett, CMP HelmsBriscoe 843-243-0554 wbassett@helmsbriscoe .com

Director of Membership Selah Havard Cabarrus County CVB 704-456-7970 Selah@visitcabarrus .com

Hospitality Committee Karen Knox, CMP, CMM Visit Winston-Salem 336-728-4213 KKnox@visitwinstonsalem .com

Membership

VP of Communications Alyce Kelly, CHSP Hilton Garden Inn Jacksonville 242-241-8402 Alyce .kelly@hilton .com

Director of Marketing Brittany O’Shaughnessy Francis Marion Hotel 843-937-8690 Brittany .OShaughnessy@thefrancismarion .com

Marketing Committee Farrah Staub, CMP Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley 919-571-5319 farrah .staub@marriott .com

Communications

VP of Finance Amy Johnson Courtyard by Marriott at Carolina Beach 910-458-2617 amy .johnson@crestlinehotels .com

Director of Strategic Partnership Maureen Donovan Holiday Inn Resort Wrightsville Beach 910-256-2231 mdonovan@ wrightsville .holidayinnresorts .com

Director of Fundraising Karolyn Stone, CHSP, CMP Marriott Columbia 803-744-6922 Karolyn .stone@ marriottcolumbia .com

Business Exchange Committee John Cruz, CMM Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC 919-765-1334 John .Cruz@bcbsnc .com

Strategic Partnerships Committee Chair Needed

Finance

VP of Education Lori Hedrick, CMM, CMP, MHA, CSEP Burroughs Wellcome Fund 919-991-5105 lhedrick@bwfund .org

Director of Meeting Planning Amelia Hodges, CMP, CMM North Carolina Association of CPAs 919-469-1040, ext . 8 ahodges@NCACPA .org

Education Committee Mallory Middleton Raleigh Convention Center 919-996-8514 mallory .middleton@raleighconvention .com

Education

MPI-CC 2015-2016 Board of Directors and Committees

Strategic Partnerships Committee Chair Needed

Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair Farrah Staub, CMP Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley 919-571-5319 farrah .staub@marriott .com

MPI-CC 2015-2016 Board of Directors and Committees

Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 7

Advocacy Committee Co-Chair Linda Ilsley, CMP LPI Events 919-322-4996 lpievents@aol .com

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

Leadership & Volunteer Development Committee Christy Marcinkowski, CMP NC Sustainable Energy Assoc . 919-832-7601 ext 11 christy@energync .org

Scholarship Committee Liz Guertin Visit Winston-Salem 336-728-4231 liz@visitwinstonsalem .com

Member Care Committee Alex Oates PSAV 919-439-6214 aoates@PSAV .COM

Publications Committee Ginny Fountain, CMP, CMM NC Association of Electric Cooperatives 919-875-3050 ginny .fountain@ncemcs .com

Social Media Committee Mica Parekh IWP Photography 919-270-2510 mica@iwpphotography .com

Fun-Raising Committee Chair Needed

Silent Auction Committee Kathleen Van Geluwe Myrtle Beach Marriott Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes 843-692-3712 kathleen .vangeluwe@ marriottsales .com

Meeting Planning Committee Molly Nelson Spartanburg Marriott 864-591-3113 Molly .Nelson@marriott .com

Professional Certifications Committee Co-Chair Jennifer Kist, CMP VROOMZ 704-607-1454 jkist@vroomz .com

Advocacy Committee Co-Chair Molly Johnson, CMP Wilmington & Beaches CVB 910-332-8747 mjohnson@ wilmingtonandbeaches .com

Awards Committee Co-Chair Lindsay Myers Caesars Entertainment 919-628-8836 lmyers1@caesars .com

Visit the MPI Website to read their stories and to share yours.

www.mpiweb.org/stories

YOU

8 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

new member spotlight

What makes our chapter such a wonderful community? Our members, of course! Tenessa Moore recently joined our chapter and is already volunteering on the social media committee where she is in charge of managing our Instagram posts . I hope each of you will give her a warm welcome to our MPI-CC family!

How long have you been in the industry?

My career began in 1995 in sports marketing and event management . That’s over 20 years of memorable events!

Tell me about your job and your company?

I currently have the greatest job in the world! I own and operate Moore Creative Ink, a multi-faceted marketing agency offering graphic design, web design, IT, marketing and event management to a variety of corporate, small business and non-profit clients . The company began as a “side job” in 1997 and became incorporated in 2005 when the company’s client base grew to over 50 . We’ve now served over 150 clients to-date and have been blessed with an incredible reputation for creative and sound solutions for any industry .

What are your hobbies and interests?

I enjoy music, dancing, motorcycles, martial arts, and travel .

Tell me about your family life.

Still single but I have plenty of friends and my immediate family here in Charlotte if I need a hug .

Why did you join MPI-CC?

As my company has expanded into offering event management as a comprehensive solution, I felt it was important to increase my knowledge and resources within the event industry . MPI offers a wealth of knowledge and resources to help me offer professional service and create unique experiences for my clients . The relationships I’m building with fellow MPI members is priceless!

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

It would be a toss up between David Tutera and Idris Elba . David has an effortless style that adds over-the-top beauty and glamour to all of his events . Idris Elba is a talented and

totally charismatic actor with the ability to own any role he’s cast in, but he’s also a DJ and I love my music!

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

With any career, I always tell people to follow your passion . When you’re doing something you love, it’s not work! Begin with building the proper relationships, always honor your word and work hard . If you follow sound principals and deliver quality events, success will follow! n

New Member Spotlight: Tenessa Mooreby Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, CMM

Tenessa Moore

Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, CMM Global KnowledgeMPI-CC VP of Membership

Jennifer and Farrah were nominated by Barbara Dragan with The Westin Charlotte, who wrote the following:

Jennifer Kist and Farrah Staub have created a team to produce and conduct the CMP Study Group . They have been diligent in keeping the

presented materials up-to-date and have been successful in completing these study groups virtually . They have had members from our chapter participate as well as members from other MPI chapters, and even some non-members . Their success is shown by the fact that 100% of those who participated in the study group have received their CMP designations!

Email Lindsay Myers at lmyers1@caesars.com to nominate someone for the Helping Hand Award! n

Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 9

Congratulations to new CMM recipients!

Congratulations on achieving the distinguished Certificate in Meeting Management (CMM), the business standard of excellence for meeting and travel professionals . You are now proficient on topics critical for managers to master, including risk mitigation, business analytics and compliance, strategic negotiation, and meetings management . Your focused efforts and time invested were evident as you successfully completed this intensive program, thereby earning the premier CMM designation .

MPI, GBTA and MPI-CC commend you on your remarkable accomplishment . Here’s to you and a bright future! April Ferguson, CMP, BCD M&E onsite at Cisco Systems, Inc. Ginny Fountain, CMP, NC Association of Electric Cooperatives Deanna Griffith, CMP, PMC, PMP, CME, GWCPgM, Time Warner Cable Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, Global Knowledge

Congratulations to new CMP recipients!

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 .

MPI, CIC and MPI-CC commend you for having met high standards of proficiency in meeting management as demonstrated by substantial professional experience and superior examination performance . Welcome to the select group of CMP’s that now numbers over 10,000!

Jess Brooks, BCD M&E onsite at Cisco Systems, Inc. Caitlyn Cook, American Board of Anesthesiology Tracie Garrett, NC Home Builders Association Diane Gregory, BCD M&E onsite at Cisco Systems, Inc. Kelsey Zwick, AICPA

Congratulations to a new CHSP recipient!

Tarshi McCoy, Senior Sales Manager at the Greenville-Pitt County Convention & Visitors Bureau (Visit Greenville, NC) recently earned the designation of Certified Hospitality Sales Professional from the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute .

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute’s Certified Hospitality Sales Professional (CHSP) designation

news you can use

is the most prestigious certification available to all areas of hospitality sales, including the selling of rooms, conventions, conferences, banquets, and catering . This globally recognized credential demonstrates the advanced knowledge of an elite group of hospitality professionals who have combined education and experience, awareness of current trends and protocols, with dedication to hospitality to achieve a high level of expertise and a place among the best in the industry .

Congratulations, Tarshi! n

If you have news we can use, please send to ginny.fountain@ncemcs.com.

Farrah Staub and Lindsay Myers (Jennifer Kist was unable to attend)

MPI-CC is proud to present the Helping Hand Award to Jennifer Kist, CMP, and Farrah Staub, CMP

Lindsay MyersCaesars EntertainmentMPI-CC Awards Committee Co-Chair

by Lindsay Myers

March Education Recap: The Real Secret to Public Speaking by Lori Hedrick, CMM, CMP, MHA, CSEP

education

You’re perspiring, your stomach is in knots and your knees are shaking . What’s happening? Is it your first day of high school, your wedding day or did you just get caught with your hand in the cookie jar? Nope, none of the above, you’re getting ready to step on stage and make a presentation to a live audience .

At MPI-CC’s March meeting at the Spartanburg Marriott, guest speaker, Will May, spent the education session sharing tips and tricks for getting through that dreaded presentation or speech . Will May, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) from Spartanburg Toastmasters, provided attendees with informative insights and entertained them with his wit and humor .

Before you start preparing your presentation, Will suggested that you ask yourself three questions:

1 – Who is my audience?

2 – Know why you are speaking . Am I an expert on this topic?

3 – What do I want my audience to take away from this presentation?

How do you answer these questions? Will detailed several factors that need to be considered when answering each question in planning for your presentation . First, know your audience . There are several important factors that need to be considered when assessing your audience . Is the group industry specific? What is the age group and gender? What

language do they speak? These are questions that need to be answered rather than thinking of the audience as just a group of people . Don’t stereotype your audience--each one is different . Your presentation will need to be tailored to fit the audience

so they can understand your message . Will used himself as an example by telling us he has given us the same presentation hundreds of times, but it always sounds different . Why? He tailors the presentation to fit the group . In other words, he will use different scenarios as examples when speaking to a group of meeting planners than he would when speaking to a group of police officers .

Next, Will shared his credentials which reiterated why he is qualified to speak on the topic of public speaking . This is something the speaker always needs to share with the audience . Let them know why you are an expert on the topic . You want the audience to know why they should listen to you .

The third question of what do you want them to take away is answered by starting with the close of your presentation . Begin with the value of what is being shared . What is the point you are making? Are they there to be motivated, to learn or just be informed? Will also suggested that when making your presentation, have a story to go with each point stated .

These are great guidelines for preparing for your onstage appearance, but the big question of the morning led back to the opening paragraph of this article . FEAR! How do you get rid of the fear of speaking in public? Will surmised it as “you don’t .” It’s very difficult for an audience to tell the difference between enthusiasm and terror, so when you’re thinking that you might faint, the audience sees you as being very excited about sharing your knowledge . You don’t want to get rid of your fear . Fear is the emotion that gets people motivated . If you are calm, then you can come across as not caring .

Will encouraged the audience to check out their local Toastmaster’s Clubs to find out how to become more comfortable with public speaking . It’s a great organization for those who want to become a confident public speaker and strong leader . You’ll find a supportive learn-by-doing environment that allows you to achieve your goals at your own pace . n

Lori Hedrick, CMM, CMP, MHA, CSEPBurroughs Wellcome FundMPI-CC VP of Education

10 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

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education

At this year’s annual MPI – Carolinas Chapter meeting in Hilton Head, South Carolina, attendees will take away applicable knowledge from two of the most important and talked about topics in today’s world – technology and wellness . It’s amazing how theses two subjects that are so vastly different are both so high on our priority list . The annual meeting, which is to take place at the Westin Hilton Head, will highlight educational content by two outstanding speakers – Dr . Kim on wellness and mindfulness and Jim Spellos on cybersecurity and technology .

On Monday, attendees can jump start their education by attending “Social Media 101 .” This session will dive into a variety of today’s most prevalent social media outlets and teach attendees how to use them as a tool to market our events, organizations and ourselves! Later on, Dr . Kim will be leading a session titled “Become a Conference Wellness Superstar .” Wellness has even crept into the meetings and events world as we learn that it is an increasing priority to both planners and attendees . Wellness can mean anything from dietary lifestyle and activity level, to mindfulness and calmness of the brain . We are continually being asked to manage more and more . Dr . Kim will educate attendees on how to incorporate wellness into their event programs while participating in a live example .

On Tuesday, attendees can jump into a morning session led by Jim Spellos about cyber protection, for ourselves, our companies, and our events . We are far more vulnerable than we may think in our everyday digital activities . In Spellos’ session, “Are You Safe (No, You’re Not!),” he will inform attendees about the daily risks we face in an ever-evolving, hi-tech world . Spellos will outline how to keep up-to-date on the latest risks and learn how to protect our event, our organization and our personal information . To add balance to the day’s sessions, attendees are encouraged to attend Dr . Kim’s “Re-Energize, Re-Focus and De-Stress with Mindfulness .” In this session, discover what’s at the core of the “mindfulness” practice and how it can apply to your events, your life and why it is so important .

Continue to energize the mind while nourishing the body . Finish the annual meeting strong during the lunch ’n learn . Jim Spellos will lead attendees through “It’s App-tastic: 60 Apps in 60 Minutes (2016 Edition) .” This session is sure to inform and stimulate . Most planners and suppliers are relying more heavily on mobile phones and tablet devices in place of personal computers . While attendees munch,

Spellos will showcase and briefly review 60 of the most useful apps for the meeting professional . In this session, phone and tablet use is encouraged so attendees can follow along, take notes or share their favorite app finds with peers .

This year’s MPI Annual Meeting speakers will inform us on how to maintain our knowledge and wellness balance for events, careers and lives! See you in May! n

Looking Ahead: Education at the MPI-CC Annual Meeting by Mallory Middleton

Mallory Middleton Raleigh Convention CenterMPI-CC Education Committee Chair

Bidding for Good & Silent Auction

MPI Carolina’s Chapter silent auction will take place at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa on Monday, May 9, 2016 . Proceeds from this auction support MPI-CC’s Nancy B . Holder Scholarship Fund, which supports education and opportunities for our members . This year’s silent auction will kick-off our fitness theme, so let’s work-it-out in our best “Get Fit Through the Ages” themed attire . Move over Jane Fonda & Richard Simmons! The silent auction preview

will begin at 6:30 pm and tables will open at 7:00 pm . Bidding For Good will open

early on May 2 to allow more time for bidding .

The form for the Bidding For Good Auction and the Silent Auction are on our website under the Annual Meeting Page or contact Kathleen .vangeluwe@marriottsales .com and one will be sent to you .

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Look Who We Spotted at the...

12 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

Look Who We Spotted at the...

... March Meeting in Spartanburg!Photography by Mica Parekh – IWP Photography

SECURING TOMORROW BY STRENGTHENING TODAY

The MPI Foundation fuels the growth and advancement of MPI members by providing them professional development and career opportunities through grants and scholarships.

Donate today at www.mpiweb.org/foundation

14 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

Now it’s your turn to surround yourself with the people, places and stories that reflect the spirit of this great nation. Contact us to start planning your meeting at 1-888-98-HEROES or VisitFayettevilleNC.com.

WE’VE BEEN THE HOST TO MEETINGS THAT HELPED SHAPE OUR COUNTRY.

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FYV-510b-Meetings-ad-3.5x4.75-v1[3-23-16]-gl.pdf 1 3/24/16 1:53 PM

Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 15

Hopefully, you already Buy MPI . Now, let’s take that a step further . We network at MPI meetings in an effort to get to know each other and book meetings with each other . Then what happens? The contract is signed, the BEO created, and the amazing catering, banquet, and A/V departments set up

shop in your contracted ballroom . It’s spectacular, exactly what you wanted . But no one to tell, no one to share it with . Not anymore…

This is a shout out to all members of MPI-CC to start using that cell phone camera and take pictures of those memorable events! We prefer member hotels, but there can be exceptions if the event is awe-inspiring . If you represent a hotel and really want to show off an event in your meeting space, take some pictures and send them to

us . We ask that all pictures be submitted with a few details explaining the picture .

MPI-CC members go to some very exciting places on FAMS, industry events and vacations . Take pictures (use good sense here!) and send them to us . Try to capture images that the industry can relate to and others will enjoy seeing . The Social Media Committee will review all submissions and choose the most inspiring shots to be included in future issues of the MPI-CC Blitz . We are a fun and travel-hungry crowd and it will be interesting to see the great places and venues that are submitted . We ask that all pictures be submitted to Jean Travers at jtravers@HelmsBriscoe .com with a few details explaining the picture . So from here on, let’s See MPI! n

There’s More to MPI than Just a Bi-Monthly Meeting... Let’s See MPI! by Jean Travers

Jean TraversHelms BriscoeMPI-CC Social Media Committee Member

Beth Tanner and Jean Traversat NACE Awards

16 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

I am happy to announce that the 2015-2016 Board of Directors has been elected and approved by our membership . Please join me in congratulating our new board for stepping up to the challenge and leading our chapter next year . We look forward to the installation at the annual meeting in May, and to their continuing legacy of success .

Our 2016-2017 Board of Directors is as follows:

Officers

President: Barbara Dragan Westin Charlotte

President Elect: Alyce Kelly, CHSP Hilton Garden Inn

Vice President of Finance: Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, CMM Global Knowledge

Vice President of Membership: Nicole Robinson Greater Raleigh CVB

Vice President of Education: Amelia Hodges, CMP, CMM NC Association of Certified Public Accountants

Vice President of Communication: Lori Hedrick, MHA, CMM, CMP, CSEP Burroughs Wellcome Fund

Immediate Past President: Christian Schroeder Visit Winston-Salem

Directors completing a two year term: Term expires June 30, 2017

Brittany O’Shaughnessy Francis Marion Hotel

Maureen Donovan Holiday Inn Resort Wrightsville Beach

Directors for a one year term: Term expires June 30, 2017

Deanna Griffith, CMM, CMP, PMC, PMP, CME, GWCPgM Spectrum Reach

Ricardo Hicks American Audio Video

Molly Nelson Spartanburg Marriott

Selah Havard, TMP Cabarrus County CVB

We have a great team to lead us and I know they are going to represent the interests of our members and MPI-CC well . Best of luck to you all in the coming year .

I also would like to thank our Nominating Committee for their expertise and help selecting our board slate to present to the membership . Your time and dedication to this important process is very much appreciated .

Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau

Tim Miron Ritz-Carlton Charlotte

Nancy Lowe, CMP NC Medical Society

Christy Marcinkowski, CMP NC Sustainable Energy Association

Wendy Basset, CMP Helms Briscoe

Linda Ilsley, CMP LPI Events

Barb Dragan Westin Charlotte

Introducing the 2016-2017 MPI Carolinas Chapter Board by Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE

Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau MPI-CC Nominating Committee Chair and Immediate Past President

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WILLIAMLEWISTRADITIONALIST & TRAILBLAZER

There is great collaboration and partnership that is the

nature of this city. Everybody is talking and thinking out loud. That always leads to

great things.

“

”

William Lewis dances to the beat of his own banjo. In his role as the executive director of PineCone in Raleigh, N.C., William preserves and protects blues, bluegrass and other forms of traditional music. And that’s not all. He helps nonprofits like the International Bluegrass Music Association make the most out of meetings and events.

Raleigh’s passionate locals maximize resources to create events that hit all the right notes, helping draw more than 140,000 fans to World of Bluegrass. Think Raleigh.

Learn more at visitRaleigh.com/meet

CONFERENCE S . CONVENTIONS . E VENTS . MEE TINGS

visitgreenvillenc.com800-537-5564

GREENVILLE-PITT COUNTYCONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

engagein good company

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Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 17

18 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

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Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 19

One day, during lunch break, a construction worker opened his lunchbox, pulled out two sandwiches, hoisted them aloft, and cried to the heavens in anguish, “Not peanut-butter sandwiches again!”

The next day, he opened his lunchbox, peered inside, and wailed in agony, “Not peanut butter sandwiches again!”

Day after day, the same scene played out: open lunch box, extract contents, “Not peanut-butter sandwiches again!”

Finally, after thirteen days of unchanging lunchtime drama, his coworker said, “Say, mister, if you don’t like peanut-butter sandwiches, why don’t you ask your wife to make you something else?”

“You leave my wife out of this,” he replied . “I MAKE MY OWN LUNCH!”

We all make our own sandwiches, and too many of us make sandwiches that we don’t like to eat . Negative elements often take root in our lives because we allow ourselves to get caught up in an endless cycle of excuses instead of taking action . Here are a few ways to take control of what’s in your lunchbox .

Prune the word but from your vocabulary: It’s just as important to weed your mind as it is your physical surroundings, and the most powerful and effective way to accomplish this is to prune the word but from your vocabulary . Excuses are mental weeds that strangle any chance of new growth regardless of how many seeds you plant . Excuses are virulent vines that strangle everything in their vicinity . Excusatory words can be just as venomous as accusatory ones . Steer clear of both . They are two strains of the same weed .

When you expunge but from your vocabulary, an amazing thing happens: where you used to see unfairness and lost chances you will find fortune and opportunity . What you say and what you think affects your circumstances in a very real way . Changing what comes out of your mouth—and what you say to yourself in your head—can give you a whole new outlook . You can create a life of possibility and potential by avoiding a simple three-letter word .

Don’t be an excuse enabler: Excuses come in two categories . The first derives from things we will not do despite the direct negative impact of inaction, such as developing a healthier lifestyle or pursuing a more fulfilling career . These buts are insidious and pervasive when you just don’t care enough about yourself to take action . If you want it bad enough you’ll find a way; if you don’t, you’ll

find an excuse . The second category derives from things we will not stop doing . It could be an addiction, or allowing negative people to stay in your life . This but thrives on the guilt-and-fear excuse and an enabling personality . As much as we like to blame others, the fact is that you are the master of what goes on in your own head . That’s right, YOU . It’s that simple, and it’s that difficult .

There is nothing positive or productive to be gained by making excuses or by repeating them . Repetition gives them credibility and allows them to continue to drain you and others . Let’s face it; life is tough, even for the healthiest and wealthiest of us . Making excuses exiles you to a perpetual rut while choosing to take responsibility for your happiness and your attitude frees to you to move on to bigger and better things .

Learn to recognize cognitive dissonance: Oftentimes the only way to get off your but is when the results become so positive or so painful that you are forced to take action . Psychologists refer to this as the Cognitive Dissonance Theory: either something brings you so much joy or causes you so much pain and sorrow that you have no choice but to change your behavior . If you keep repeating the same excuses rather than taking action, then you aren’t at this point yet . It’s that simple . Benjamin Franklin said, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else .” And you definitely don’t want Excuse Master on your headstone .

The endless cycle of repeating excuses could be described, in the words of Alan Watts, as “all retch and no vomit .” How grossly appropriate! When we allow ourselves to associate with thankless, negative, or even unethical people, we become poisoned by them . It’s not their fault; it’s ours . When we lack the discipline or self-esteem to break a negative habit, instead clinging to our big buts, we poison ourselves . Better to be silent than to regurgitate the same old thing over and over . Albert Einstein defined insanity as “doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results .” This includes making excuses . For things to change, first you must change, so eliminate the three-letter “b” word from your vocabulary because a big but doesn’t look good on anybody . n

Tracey C. Jones is a U.S. Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, speaker and publisher. She speaks to audiences across the nation on leadership, accountability, business success and other topics. Her latest book is Beyond Tremendous: Raising the Bar on Life. To learn more, visit tremendoustracey.com.

Does This Excuse Make My BUT Look Big?by Tracey C. Jones

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20 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

• Over 16,000 area hotel rooms

• One of the Southeast’s largest

convention centers

• 23,500-seat coliseum

• More than 500 restaurants

• Easy access from 3 major Interstates

VisitGreensboroNC.com

800-344-2282 | #VisitGSO

• PGA Championship golf courses

• World-class museums, festivals

& entertainment

• International airport

Greensboro5 HRS. FROM

Washington D.C.

5 HRS. FROM

Atlanta

board meeting highlights

Attendees: Christian Schroeder, Barbara Dragan, Nicole

Robinson, Karolyn Stone, CMP, CHSP, Christine Irwin, CMP,

Vince Chelena and Brittany O’Shaughnessy

Attendees via conference call: Maureen Donovan, Alyce

Kelly, CHSP, Lori Hedrick, MHA, CMP, CMM, CSEP

Excused Absences: Selah Havard, TMP, Alison Harding,

CMP, GTP, CMM, Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE, Amelia

Hodges, CMP, CMM, Amy Johnson

Minutes: Barbara Dragan presented the minutes from

the January 14, 2016 Board of Directors Meeting a made a

motion to approve .

Motion: Barbara Dragan made a motion to approve the January

14, 2016 Board of Directors Meeting Minutes as presented.

Second: Nicole Robinson

Vote: Approved

Financials: Vince Chelena presented the February P&L

statement, Balance Sheet and Aging Report . We expect to

collect all accounts receivable and are not recommending

any write-offs .

Motion: Nicole Robinson made a motion to approve the

February P&L, Balance Sheet and Aging Report as presented.

Second: Karolyn Stone, CMP, CHSP

Vote: Approved

Chapter Office: Christine Irwin, CMP reviewed the

February Metric Report . Christine reminded the board of

all upcoming transition deadlines:

March 31, 2016 – Individual Transition Call

April 1, 2016 – Budget Requests due to Christine

April 13, 2016 – Board Retreat Presentation Model

due to Christine

April 20, 2016 – Survey responses due to Tara

(only completed by 16-17 Board)

April 28 -29, 2016 – Board Retreat for 16-17 Board only

June 1 – Individual Transition Call #2 post retreat

Consent Agenda: Christian Schroeder asked for a motion to

approve the Consent Agenda .

Motion: Karolyn Stone, CMP, CHSP made a motion to approve

the Consent Agenda as presented.

Second: Nicole Robinson

Vote: Approved

Board Transitions: Christian Schroeder reported that CBS

is coming up in a few short weeks (April 7-9th) in which

some of our VPs, PE and Chapter Admin will be attending .

There is a new membership model that will be introduced

at CBS and launched before June .

Christian reminded the current board to share what has

and hasn’t worked from their year so the following year’s

director in their position can be successful and continue

making progress . He also requested that current board

members update their flash drives with their position

timeline and all pertinent documents needed for a smooth

transition to the new Director in their position .

TMO Review: Christian Schroeder presented that each year

we are contractually bound to perform a review for The

Management Office . Christian will be emailing the board

next week with review questions to answer .

Blitz Reminder: Alyce Kelly, CHSP reminded everyone

that Blitz submissions are due one week from tomorrow .

All social media outlets are continuing to grow and are

performing well .

January Meeting Survey Results: Lori Hedrick, CMP, CMM,

MHA, CSEP reviewed the results from the January Meeting

survey and addressed feedback with the Board .

2017 Meeting Locations: Christian Schroeder announced

that the 2017 Meetings RFP has been distributed and all

proposals have been collected . The committee will review

and present a proposed calendar to the board in May for

a vote . _______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________

Continued on the next page

Board of Directors Meeting MinutesMarch 17, 2016 | Spartanburg, SCby Christine Irwin, CMP

Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016 | 21

22 | Carolina Blitz | April - May 2016

Christine Irwin, CMP MPI-CC Chapter AdministratorThe Management Office

_______________________________________ ___________________________________________________________

Continued from previous page

2016-2017 Nancy B Holder Scholarships: Nicole Robinson

announced that the Scholarship Committee has reviewed

the applications and scored them accordingly . The next

step will be to determine how much money we will have in

the 2016-2017 budget to award to the scholarship applicants

and then award the amounts appropriately .

2015-2016 Annual Awards: Nicole announced that the

awards committee is coming up with creative ways to

get members to nominate their peers for the annual

awards this year . All nominations are due March 28 .

The committee is creating a few new awards this year –

example Chapter Event of the Year . The committee co-

chairs will compile a list of awards and TMO will send the

nominations out with a survey .

Fundraising Update: The Silent Auction Committee is

meeting later today to discuss plans for the Annual Meeting

Silent Auction .

Communications Update: Brittany O’Shaughnessy gave the

communications team update . Social media committee

is ramping up all social media activity and Mica Parekh

has agreed to continue on as chair . The Carolina Blitz will

be adding WEC items to the next issue to promote the

conference . They are always in need of articles, so please

share any that may be pertinent . The marketing team

is continually reviewing the chapter’s website to keep it

current and relevant .

Education / Meeting Planning Update: Lori Hedrick, MHA,

CMP, CMM, CSEP gave the education team update . The team

is working on wrapping up education selections for 2016

and then looking to finalize meeting locations for 2017 .

Strategic Partnerships Update: Maureen Donovan gave

the strategic partnerships team update . Maureen held a

conference call with TMO to discuss sponsorship packages

and creating menu pricing for sponsorships . These new

packages will be presented at the Annual Meeting . There

will also be an annual sponsor appreciation reception held

at the Annual Meeting this year .

MPI Foundation: Barbara Dragan announced that she

recently participated on a call for the MPI Foundation

updates and there are new scholarships available for

WEC attendance and MPI memberships . She will send all

updates out and we’ll begin promoting to our members .

Global Meetings Industry Day: Christian Schroeder

updated the board on the Global Meetings Industry Day

events being held on April 14 concurrently in four different

locations across the Carolinas – Charlotte, Durham, Myrtle

Beach and Charleston . He emphasized that it is important

for board members to attend and to make sure there is

representation from a board level at each event . We will

also have an MPI table at each event for information and

member recruitment .

Next Board Meeting: The next board meeting will be held

on May 9, 2016 at the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort &

Spa in Hilton Head Island, SC .

Meeting Adjourned. n

May 9-10, 2016Hilton Head Island, SC

The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa

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 Ginny

Fountain, CMP, CMM at Ginny .Fountain@ncemcs .com or

submit via our website at www .mpi-cc .org .

http://www.diningindurham.com

Know a Helping Hand?

Know anyone that has lent a helping hand?

Committee Chairs, please nominate one of your

members who has volunteered their time and

efforts this month and thank them for helping to

make your goal possible. Let me know who they

are and how they went above and beyond for your

committee. Please send nominations to

Lindsay Myers at lmyers1@caesars.com

Carolina BlitzThe 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 Ginny Fountain, CMP, CMM - Ginny .Fountain@ncemcs .com

EDITORIAL AND NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE

Director of MarketingBrittany O’Shaughnessy • Francis Marion Hotel

EditorGinny Fountain, CMP, CMM • North Carolina Association of Electric Cooperatives

Contributing WritersChristian Schroeder, Visit Winston-Salem; Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Company; Lindsay Myers, Caesars Entertainment; ; Mallory Middleton, Raleigh Convention Center; Lori Hedrick, CMM, CMP, MHA, CSEP, Burroughs Wellcome Fund; Alison Harding, CMP, GTP, CMM, Global Knowledge; Jean Travers, Helms Briscoe; Malinda Harrell, CMP, CASE, Greater Raleigh CVB; Tracey C . Jones

PhotographerMicah Parekh - IWP Photography

ProofreadersKathy Flowe, CMP, Alabama Theatre; Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office; Cathy Mauldin, CMP, DESA, Inc .; Teresa Palmieri, Sheraton Imperial; Myron Jones, Fayetteville CVB; Connie Hayes, Student; Lynn Rich, CMP, American Express Meetings & Events; Nancy Lowe, CMP, NC Medical Society; Elizabeth Lyons, CMP, TD Convention Center

PublisherVince Chelena • The Management Office704-377-5648 • Fax 704-333-6927 • staff@themanagementoffice .com

AdvertisingMaureen Donovan • Holiday Inn Resort Wrightsville Beach • 910-256-2231

DesignKistin Creative Studio • 704-724-9188 • kistincreative .com

MPI-CC Web Site: www .mpi-cc .org

ADVERTISING RATES AND DEADLINESAD SIZE FREQUENCY MEMBER NON-MEMBER RATE RATEQuarter Page 1X $220 $290(3 1/2”W x 4 3/4”H) 3X $200/issue $270/issue 6X $160/issue $230/issueHalf Page Horizontal 1X $420 $550(7 1/4”W x 4 3/4”H) 3X $400/issue $530/issue 6X $360/issue $490/issueHalf Page Vertical 1X $420 $550(3 1/2”W x 9 1/2”H) 3X $400/issue $530/issue 6X $360/issue $490/issueFull Page 1X $640 $840(7 1/2”W x 9 1/2”H) 3X $620/issue $820/issue 6X $580/issue $780/issueFull Page Insert 1X $700/issue $910/issue 3X $680/issue $890/issue 6X $640/issue $850/issue(Produced and provided by advertiser)

There are 6 issues of the Blitz published yearly -FEB/MAR, APR/MAY, JUNE/JULY, AUG/SEPT, OCT/NOV, DEC/JAN

NOTE: Rates are published as of January 2011 and are subject to change without notice . All published rates are net non-commisionable . Any cost incurred by the BLITZ for art that is not fully press ready (e .g . reductions, halftones) will be billed to the advertiser, or art that is not press ready may be refused .

DUE DATE: Due by the 15th of the month prior to publication . Artwork is due to the publisher within 10 days after deadline for space reservations .

SEND MATERIALS TO: Christine Irwin, CMP, The Management Office, 1800 Camden Road, Suite 107, #213, Charlotte, NC 28203Christine@TheManagementOffice .com • Fax: 704-333-6927

For more advertising information contact Maureen Donovan at mdonovan@wrightsville .holidayinnresorts .com or 910-256-2231 .

Visit our website at www .mpi-cc .org for additional advertising and sponsorship opportunities!