MSAE Fall 2014 Magazine by Creative Marketing Concepts

Connections Fall 2014

2014 LSAE/MSAE Joint State Conference Think Like Your Attendee! The “Wow” Factor at Your Convention MSDH Encourages Associations’ Leaderships to be Involved in Health Improvement Plan

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Contents Connections is published for the Mississippi Society of Association Executives (MSAE) P.O. Box 12467 Jackson, MS 39236 Phone: 601.366.7400 Fax: 601.853.4283 Web: msae-net.org

Think Like Your Attendee! The “Wow” Factor at Your Convention

Don’t Just Sit There–Learn!

MSAE Members Awarded Hometown Hero & SUMITT Awards

Hansen Earns Certified Association Executive Credential

2014 LSAE/MSAE Joint State Conference

Immediate Past President Layne Bruce

July 2014 Lunch & Learn

Secretary Mark Leggett, CAE

MSDH Encourages Associations’ Leaderships to be Involved in Health Improvement Plan

Obstacles to Board Decision-Making

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Shari Veazey Vice President Judith Forshee

Treasurer Charles Elliott Executive Director Amy Wilson (Ex-Officio Member)

Departments

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS Karla Hooten David Roberts Al Sage Nancy Youngblood

President’s Perspective

Upcoming Events

Welcome New MSAE Members

INDUSTRY PARTNER MEMBERS Rachel Hebert Steve Martin Whitney Orr Angela Weathersby

Index to Advertisers

Published by: Creative Marketing Concepts www.cmconline.biz Phone: 334.657.6575 For Advertising Information Call Martha Ann Cole 334.271.0930 mac@cmconline.biz 4

Features

MSAE MISSION STATEMENT MSAE strives for the success of association executives by providing leadership, professional development and networking opportunities and seeks to promote the role of associations in Mississippi.

Connections | Fall 2014

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President’s Perspective As I write this column, our Joint Conference Chairman Judith Forshee and her team are hard at work putting together a stellar line-up of events and education sessions. I hope to see all of you in Natchez, October 6-8. This year, MSAE is taking the lead on pulling together the conference, and our team in Natchez is rolling out the red carpet as usual. Bob Harris will be in the house…with his usual on-target presentations—this time on how to “Become the Best Strategic Plan Facilitator” and “Risk Management from A to Z.” If you have never had to opportunity to hear Bob Harris, get ready to be educated, challenged and entertained! Industry Partners will also have opportunities to attend sessions and share ideas with each other.

Our Joint Conference schedule will also include a trip across the river to Vidalia, LA, with dinner and entertainment at the Vidalia Outdoor Amphitheatre. We will also have the chance to take a selfguided tour of the “Get On Up” movie locations and of course a tour of homes on the Fall Pilgrimage. Several of us have just returned from ASAE’s Annual Conference in Nashville, TN. Over 5,000 association and non-profit professionals were in attendance. The conference offered 120+ education sessions and a huge exposition. I encourage all of you to attend this event at least once—great ideas, innovations and strategies to move your association forward!

Bruce, has begun meeting to nominate the slate of officers and new board members for 2015. We will hold a membership meeting in place of our November Lunch and Learn so that the slate of officers can be presented to the membership. This meeting will also serve as a time to invite potential new members or members who have been inactive. I challenge all of you to consider if you know an association who is not represented in MSAE and to invite them to our November meeting, as our guest. Happy Fall!

The MSAE Nominating Committee, chaired by our past president Layne

Connections | Fall 2014

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Fall 2014 | Connections

Think Like Your Attendee! The “Wow” Factor at Your Convention by Dianne Dyar

Have you been to that convention or conference and it just clicks? Everything is perfect – from the registration process all the way through to the closing session. You walk away feeling pretty well-taken care of and that your time away from the office was well-spent. Convention planning is all about the attention to the details. For the first time you try some of these tips, it may seem overwhelming. However, the ease and flow of future conventions may depend on your consideration of all your attendees and their level of their participation in future conventions. Work with your staff and the convention venue staff to incorporate some of these tips. They could be standard operating procedures for all upcoming conventions. Incorporating some of these tips into your next event will have your attendees raving and speakers requesting to come back year after year! Repeat and repeat and tell it again. Just a reminder, first-time attendees are unsure of what to do and where to go, especially in a larger venue. Don’t assume that the person in charge of the registration has forwarded any pertinent information to those attending your function. Great opportunities for networking and/or entertainment are missed simply because the information was not delivered to the attendee. Always add all attendees to a database and send all necessary information to them, repeatedly. Never assume that the attendee is getting the information. Never send a “forward” to your staff email – it simply won’t happen. •

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Give attendees the lay of the land. Conventions and conferences are booked months, even years, in advance. Meeting planners and hotel sales staff are writing all the details down so there is no confusion as to who goes where with the necessary equipment. A good tip is to put this information in all your promotional literature. There is nothing worse than showing up at an event and going to the wrong room or meeting area. And, repeat this often to your attendees. Several hundreds of folks can miss a great entertainment venue, simply because they did not know it was a part of their convention! What a shame! While this may add an extra page to your brochure, it is well worth it. What do you have to hide? “I’m headed to XYZ registration” pass. If you have late attendee arrivals that have to walk through a secure area to get to the registration area, make sure they have a “I’m a part of the XYZ convention, headed to registration” pass. And, make sure hotel/convention security know about the passes and can get your attendees to registration in a timely manner to enjoy all of the festivities. If you’re in a large hotel or convention center, this is critical. Late arrivals are already tired – don’t make them walk around the world to get to registration, simply because they don’t have their badge. Stay on time. It is your job or your assigned staff ’s job to keep the convention running on time, including long-winded speakers. It is not your job or your staff ’s job to be the last one to show up in the morning or the first one out the door when the convention is over. It is your job to see that everything – pre – and post-convention is handled effectively and efficiently. Showing up late and leaving early is not in the equation for success for your convention. Yes, speakers are - - or should be professionals-- and honor your time commitments. If sessions start late, the entire day gets behind schedule and this is never a good position for the organization or for the speakers. If this happens, don’t ask the last speaker of the day to cut their presentation by “15 minutes because we’re running behind and everyone wants their door prizes.” Speakers come prepared to work within the time you’ve given them and regardless of the level of professionalism, this request is not one you want to make of a speaker because you did not do you job on the front end by keeping everything on time. First time attendees. For those that are attending the convention/conference, make them a “VIP.” It’s a great way to recognize the first-timers and to be inclusive. This idea is from a national conference but can easily be adapted to state or Connections | Fall 2014

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regional conferences. Make sure your “veteran” conference-goers know about the VIP ribbon so it can be a conversation started for everyone. The second idea, especially if you have several states or regions at a m - meeting, is to color-code the name tags. All attendees from one state is a color, another state is another color – this is a perfect ice-breaker for everyone, without being so obvious that it’s an attendee’s first time or it’s hard to connect with others from your area. Another idea is to group attendees by the number of_____fill in the blank. The groupings could be done by the total number of employees, total sales of the entity, or total population – any combination that will get like attendees together to start conversations. Take care of your speakers. Speakers are hired to provide informative, educational information to your attendees. Work overtime to make sure their handouts, promotional and collateral materials arrive on time at the convention venue. It’s the attention to this detail that will get out quickly among speakers and can be a disaster for you for working with future speakers. Working with the convention staff on this point will make your life much easier, trust me. All electronic – both audio and video – needs to be in place and working properly, at the time the speaker hits the stage. Smaller, more intimate venues are no different. Work closely with your speakers to give your attendees the “wow” factor. The list. In convention planning, there are a lot of details. Leaving the details to “memory” or “how we did it last year” is never a good idea. A good-old, 3-ring notebook, organized by days and hours, is a good way to stay on top of any potential challenges or opportunities. It’s also a good idea to take note on what worked really well and where improvements can be made for future conferences. A list of contacts and their direct numbers is also a good page to have in this notebook. If technology is your preferred method, make it work for you to keep up with everything related to your convention.

It’s the attention to the details that will “wow” your attendees and make your convention a success. Don’t overlook even the smallest of details and make notes about what you liked while attending other conventions and conferences. There are no new ideas – just modify the best of the best to make it work for you convention at your chosen venue. Copyright MMXIV – Dianne Dyar, Dyar Communication+Strategy – www.diannedyar.com Dianne Dyar is the CCO, Chief Creative Officer of Dyar Communication+Strategy. DCS focuses on customer service, teamwork, celebrating, and building your network. She currently holds Professional Membership with the National Association of Speakers (NSA), a member of the NSA New Orleans Chapter and the Mississippi Chapter of Association for Talent Development.

UPCOMING EVENTS September 9 Cocktails & Conversations 5:00 - 6:30 Hilton Jackson September 10 Lunch & Learn 11:30 - 1:00 Hilton Jackson

October 6 - 8 LSAE - MSAE Joint Conference Natchez, MS Natchez Convention Center

April 29 - May 1, 2015 2015 Mid-Year Conference Tupelo, MS

November 18 Cocktails & Conversations 5:00 - 6:30 November 19 MSAE Membership Meeting 11:30 - 1:00

Fall 2014 | Connections

Don't Just Sit There—Learn! By Robert C. Harris, CAE

It's true of so many things, but especially seminars and conferences: You get out of them what you put into them. To encourage attendees to make the most of your association's educational opportunities, share these 13 tips to maximize the benefits of attendance. (You'll probably even profit from the suggestions yourself.) •

Before you ever sit down at the conference, determine what you want to learn. Prepare by picking the right sessions for you, reading speaker bios, and anticipating some of the content and what you hope to find out.

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Find the best seat. Arrive early so you can find a spot you're comfortable in. To avoid distractions, sit near the front. If the handouts are on the table when you arrive early, scan them for content so you'll be better able to follow the presentation.

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Sit next to someone you don't know. Stay apart from the people with whom you came. Make new friends. Look for a potential mentor, customer, or contact. During the breaks, make a point of meeting at least one new person.

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Turn off distractions. Put away your calendar, Blackberry, newspaper, and trade journals so you can really focus on the presentation. Don't worry about anyone else; concentrate on becoming the best you can be for yourself.

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Listen with the intent to really learn and improve yourself. Pay attention specifically for one or two good ideas from every session. The best way is to take notes and be quiet. At the end of the day, you may have a dozen new facts, resources, and inspirations. Sometimes you have to hear the entire presentation before you understand the original concepts. Don't cut off the thought or start critiquing too soon.

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Don't be a know-it-all. When you hear a familiar fact, don't tell yourself, "I already knew that." Rather, ask yourself, "How good am I at that?" Self-evaluation is one of the keys to self-improvement. Pick out what will work for you and concentrate on applying the new and relevant information.

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Turn down your sensitivity meter. You're attending to get information, not to be offended by a remark or word. Don't expect everything to be politically correct. Don't Connections | Fall 2014

you don't hear the information you want most during the session, stay a minute or two afterward and ask the speaker if you can talk or exchange e-mails later on.

criticize the presenters; instead, help them make dynamic presentations by listening and nodding your head when you agree or by asking good questions. •

Ask good questions. Do so silently to yourself, or write them down as they occur to you so you can ask at the appropriate moment. Question to learn, not to show off in front of colleagues.

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Take good notes. You'll lose great ideas before you ever have a chance to try them if 1) you dash them off illegibly, 2) you never bother to read them when you get back to your office, or 3) you didn't take any. Write notes as if you've been asked to read them at your next staff meeting. You probably won't do that, but do share the idea-gems you learn with at least one other person.

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Don't stop learning just because you're in the hallways or trade show aisles. Not everything is taught from the podium. Keep your notebook in hand and ask questions of the people you meet outside the formal sessions. If exhibitors are present, the information they provide and their handouts might give you new ideas and facts.

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Contact the meeting's sponsors. They have a purpose for participating in the conference. Recognize the sponsors, thank them, and find out what's new with them and what they might be able to do to help you.

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Finally, apply new concepts and information not just to your job but also to your personal life. If you let it, what you learn can add value to many areas of life beyond the office.

Be open to new seeds of wisdom. By keeping an open mind, you may hear something that can changey our approach to a project or motivate you to expand your interests. But if

Robert C. Harris, CAE, is chairman of the Nonprofit Resource Center in Tallahassee, Florida. Harris grants ASAE members permission to adapt this article for their associations' use. Reprinted with permission; Robert C. Harris, www.nonprofitcenter.com. E-mail: bob@rchcae.com.

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MSAE Members Awarded Hometown Hero & SUMITT Awards The Jackson Convention & Visitors Bureau (JCVB) celebrated the best of the best in Tourism by sponsoring the 22nd Annual Hometown Hero and SUMITT Awards Program on June 26th. The program was created by the JCVB to recognize and show appreciation for the hard work of the industry’s top professionals who have helped contribute to the success of the tourism industry in Jackson. MSAE helped to support this event by sponsoring a table. Several members were on hand to congratulate MSAE Industry Partner winners! Hometown Hero Award: Travel and Tourism Industry Employees in an industry related business, which greatly contributed to the travel and tourism industry by serving above and beyond their usual job duties. • Margot Kadoun – Marriott Downtown, Sales Manager Shining Example Award: • Jake Greer – Jackson CVB Sales Manager SUMITT (Superlative Merit in Travel and Tourism) Award – recognizes Jackson’s top tourism entities for their outstanding contributions to the advancement of travel and tourism in Jackson. • Full Service Hotel of the Year: Hilton Jackson – Accepted by Cindy Brinson, Director of Sales In addition to the Hometown Hero and Summit Awards, JCVB also awarded the Tourism Visionary Award which they recognize as the highest industry achievement for industry partners who navigate new standards of involvement and cooperation to develop Jackson’s tourism future.USA International Ballet Competition won this distinctive honor. JCBV reported that 2013 was a very good year for tourism in Jackson with over 2.8 million visitors, $298 million dollars in spending, and providing 20,600 full-time jobs. Jackson experienced an increase in tourism tax receipts for the first time since the economic downturn! The theme for this year was “Tourism Together.”

Jackson CVB Award Winners 12

Board Members Congratulate Hometown Heros Connections | Fall 2014

Hansen Earns Certified Association Executive Credential After meeting regularly with the MSAE study group for over six months and participating in MSAE educational programs, Beth Hanson took the CAE exam in May 2014. On July 1st, The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) announced that Beth Hansen, CEO of the Mississippi REALTORS® has earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE®) credential. The CAE is the highest professional credential in the association industry. To be designated as a Certified Association Executive, an applicant must have a minimum of three years experience in nonprofit organization management, complete a minimum of 100 hours of specialized professional development, pass a stringent examination in association management and pledge to uphold a code of ethics. To maintain the certification, individuals must undertake ongoing professional development and activities in association and nonprofit management. Mississippi currently has less than 10 Certified Association Executives. Beth Hansen stepped into the CEO position for the Mississippi Association of REALTORS® in June, 2010, after serving MAR in various roles since December, 1999. Her initial work with MAR focused on the development of the Mississippi Commercial Association of REALTORS® and the Mississippi Chapters of CCIM, CRS, IREM and RLI. She has also worked extensively with local board governance issues, statewide Professional Standards Administration, and convention and meeting planning. Her resume also includes stints on the boards of several community non-profit organizations. Beth holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Microbiology, and is a former community college instructor. She is also the proud mom of 2 sons, ages 21 and 23. You do not have to be a member of ASAE or MSAE to take this national exam or to participate in the MSAE study program. Please contact Amy Wilson, if you are interested in additional information about the credential, test or study program, awilson@msae-net.org or 601-853-4282.

Fall 2014 | Connections

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2014 LSAE /MSAE JOINT STATE CONFERENCE October 6-8, 2014 Natchez, Mississippi

Schedule of Events Monday, October 6, Natchez Convention Center: Day 1: 3.0 Hours of Programming 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Vendor Move-In 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Registration 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Opening Lunch: Lou Figueroa, Inspiring Speaker 12:45 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Executive Tract: Facilitation Excellence: Leading the Development and Overseeing the Execution of a Successful Strategic Plan, Part 1, Bob Harris 12:45 p.m. - 1:55 p.m. Industry Partners: Prepare for R&R and Networking Lounge Open 2:10 p.m. - 2:50 p.m. Relax & Relate (coffee & soft drinks) 3:00 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Executive Tract: Risk Management from A-Z; Are you SURE you thought of it all?, Bob Harris 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Industry Partner Tract: Implementing Change, Lou Figueroa 4:20 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. Relax & Relate (Choose your passion: Chocolate or fruit, or both!) 5:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. Free Time/Return to Hotels / 6:00 p.m. Meet in Lobby for Shuttle / 6:15 p.m. Shuttle Departs for Vidalia 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Dinner & Entertainment; Vidalia Outdoor Amphitheatre 8:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Nightcap & Networking Under the Stars, Location TBA

Tuesday, October 7, Day 2: 2.0 Hours of Programming Enjoy a hot breakfast at your hotel (check your hotel for times) 8:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. IP Set up for R&R 9:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Announcements & Wake Up Presentation, Mack Dryden 9:40 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. Executive Tract: Facilitation Excellence: Leading the Development and Overseeing the Execution of a Successful Strategic Plan, Part 2, Bob Harris 9:40 a.m. - 10:40 a.m. Industry Partner Tract: Best & Worst Ideas I Had in 2014, So Far... 10:40 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. Industry Partner Networking Lounge Open 11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Relax and Relate with Bloody Mary & Bubbles 12:15 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Lunch at Carriage House 2:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Afternoon Activities or Catch Up Time Get On Up Movie Tour (on your own with guided map; approximately 45 minutes - 2 hours) Tour of Homes: Fall Pilgrimage Homes Tour (on your own, $20; Choose 2 home tours: Longwood, Rosalie, Melrose, or Linden; approximately 2 hours). Register from September 8 until Conference registration. Horse & Carriage Tour: Limit 30 people; Two tours offered, one hour each (2p - 3p or 3:15p - 4:15p), $20 / person, pre-registration required between September 8-September 26

Fall 2014 | Connections

October 6-8 2014 ♦ Natchez, Mississippi ♦ Schedule of Events Continued Tuesday, October 7, Afternoon & Evening Activities 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite Open: Stop by and enjoy refreshments and networking as your afternoon schedule allows while enjoying hot air balloons.

October 6-8 2014 ♦ Natchez, Mississippi ♦ Schedule of Events Continued

Dine-A-Round Begins:

5:45 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Meet in Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite for Appetizers, Cocktails, Balloon Photos & Glow and Shuttle Departures

Tuesday, October 7, Afternoon & Evening 6:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Prentiss Club: Salad Activities 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite Open: Stop by and enjoy refreshments and networking as your afternoon schedule while enjoyingDinner hot air balloons. 7:45 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. allows Dunleith Plantation: Dine-A-Round Begins: 9:15 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. King’s Tavern: Dessert and Cocktails 5:45 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Meet in Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite for Appetizers, Cocktails, Balloon Photos & Glow and Shuttle Departures Others may walk to other downtown venues or to Grand Hotel or Bowie 6:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Prentiss Club: Salad

October 6-8 2014 ♦ Natchez, Mississippi ♦ Schedule of Events Continued October 6-8 2014 ♦ Natchez, Mississippi ♦ Schedule of Events Continued

Tuesday, October 7, Afternoon & Evening ActivitiesCenter; 2.0 Hours of Programming Wednesday, October 8, Day 3: Natchez Convention Tuesday, October 7, Afternoon & Evening Activities 7:45 p.m. - 6:00 9:30 p.m. Dunleith Plantation: Dinner 3:30 Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite Open: Stop by and enjoy refreshments and networking as your afternoon schedule 8:45 a.m. - 10:10 a.m. General Session: Mack Dryden allows while enjoying hot air balloons. A Guide to Achieving Your Goals by Laughing Yourrefreshments Way to the Top 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite Open: Stop by and enjoy and networking as your afternoon schedule Along with Hearty/Jump-Start 9:15 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. allows King’s Tavern: Dessert andairCocktails while enjoying hot balloons. Group Breakfast Dine-A-Round Begins:

Others may walk$250 to other downtown or toof Grand Hotel or Bowie 10:20 a.m. & Relate, Cash Prizes perfor Room, 1 in venues 12 chances winning! Dine-A-Round Begins: 5:45a.m. p.m.- -11:10 7:00 p.m. Final MeetRelax in Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite Appetizers, Cocktails, Balloon Photos & Glow and Shuttle Departures 5:45 p.m.- -12:15 7:00 Meet in Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite forHours Appetizers, Cocktails, Balloon Photos & Glow and Shuttle Departures 11:15 ‘Em StaySalad Session: Relationship Building with MS LA Lawmakers 6:45a.m. 7:45 p.m.8,Make Prentiss Club: Wednesday, October Day 3: Natchez Convention Center; 2.0 of and Programming Participants, TBA 6:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Prentiss Club: Salad 8:45 a.m. - 10:10 a.m. General Session: Mack Dryden 7:45 p.m. -12:15 9:30 p.m. PM Dunleith Dinner BoxedPlantation: Go October 6-8 2014 ♦ Natchez, Mississippi Schedule ALunches Guide totoAchieving Your Goals by Laughing Your Way to♦the Top of Events Continued Along withTuesday, Hearty/Jump-Start Group Breakfast 7:45 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Dunleith Plantation: Dinner October 7, Afternoon & Evening Activities 9:15 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. King’s Tavern: Dessert3:30and p.m. -Cocktails 6:00 p.m. Grand per Ballroom Hospitality Open:chances Stop by and enjoy refreshments and networking as your afternoon schedule 10:20 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. Final Relax & Relate, Cash Prizes $250 Room, 1Suite in 12 of winning! Hotel Information allows while enjoying hot air balloons. 9:15 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. King’s Tavern: Dessert and Others may walk to other downtown venues or to Grand Hotel or Bowie Dine-A-Round Begins: rateStay and block atCocktails all properties will MS close September 16, 2014 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Room Make ‘Em Session: Relationship Building with andTuesday, LA Lawmakers 5:45 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Meet in Grand Ballroom Hospitality Suite for Appetizers, Cocktails, Balloon Photos & Glow and Shuttle Departures A l l p r o p eParticipants, r t i e s i n cTBA l uOthers d e Cmay o mwalk plim n t adowntown r y W i r evenues l e s sorI to n tGrand e r n eHotel t a nordBowie Full Breakfast. to e other

ALL ATTENDEES REGISTER ONLINE

Wednesday, October 8, Day 3: Natchez Convention Center; 2.0Salad Hours of Programming 6:45 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Prentiss Club:

12:15 p.m.8,General PM Lunches to 7:45 Go p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Dunleith Plantation: Dinner of Programming Wednesday, October DayBoxed 3: Natchez Convention Center; 2.0 with Hours 8:45 a.m. - 10:10 a.m. Session: Mack Dryden It is recommended you register Cvent in email provided link or

A Guide toon Achieving Your Goals Laughing to the Top Linden Bed & Breakfast: 9:15Dryden p.m. - 10:30 p.m. King’s Tavern:by Dessert and CocktailsYour Way link website: www.lsaemsaejointconference.com 8:45 a.m. - 10:10 a.m. General Session: Mack Natchez Grand: Along with Hearty/Jump-Start Group OthersBreakfast may walk to other downtown venues or to Grand Hotel or Bowie All Members: $135/ night A Guide to Achieving YourHotel Goals by Laughing Your Way to the Top Information Executive Members: $79/night (Code: EDRNTZ14) Wednesday, October 8, Day 3: Natchez Convention Center; 2.0 Hours of Programming Along with Hearty/Jump-Start Group Breakfast 10:20 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. Final Relax Relate, Cashat Prizes $250 per Room, 1 close in 12 chances of winning! 601-445-5472 AFTER REGISTERING YOU MAY: Room rate&and block all properties willONLINE, Tuesday, September 16, 2014 Industry Partners: $99/night (Code: INPNTZ14) 8:45 a.m. - 10:10 a.m. General Session: Mack Dryden Aby Guide to Achieving Your Goals by Laughing Your Way to the Top Pay credit card www.lindenbandb.com A l l p r o p e r t i e s i n c l u d e C o m p l i m e n t a r y W i r e l e s s I n t e r n e t a n d F ull Breakfast. 10:20 - 11:10 a.m. & Relate, Cash Prizes $250Building per Room, 1MS in 12 chances of winning! 11:15 a.m. 12:15601-445-3506 p.m. Final MakeRelax ‘Em Stay Session: Relationship with and LA Breakfast Lawmakers Phone: Along with Hearty/Jump-Start Group Request an invoice when you register online Participants, TBA 10:20 a.m. - 11:10 a.m. Final Relax & Relate, Cash Prizes $250 per Room, 1 in 12 chances of winning! Website: www.natchezgrandhotel.com 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Make ‘Em Stay Session: Relationship Building with MS and LA Lawmakers

To mail payments after11:15 requesting invoice: MSAE P.Building O. Box 12467 Jackson, MS 39236 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Make ‘Em Stay Session: Relationship with MS and LA Lawmakers Participants, TBA to Go Participants, TBA PM Boxed Lunches Email12:15 Amyp.m. Wilson, MSAE, awilson@msae-net.org or Crystal Carter,Linden LPA@pperron.com with any questions. Bed & Breakfast:

Natchez Grand: 12:15 p.m. PM Boxed Lunches to Go Dunleith Plantation: 12:15 p.m. PM Boxed Lunches to Go All Members: $135/ night Executive Members: $79/night (Code: EDRNTZ14) Both Executive and Industry Partner Members: Hotel Information Hotel Information 601-445-5472 Room rate and block at all properties will close Tuesday, September 16, 2014 Industry Partners: $99/night (Code: INPNTZ14) #6 Courtyard rooms @$125/night (Code: #141005MSAE, listed under MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) A l l p r o p e r t i e s i n c l u d e C o m p l i m e n t a r y W i r e l e s s I n t e r n e t a n d F u16, l l B r e2014 akfast. Room rate and block at all properties will close Tuesday, September www.lindenbandb.com Hotel Information Phone: #6 Main601-445-3506 House @ $150/night (Code: #141005MSAE, listed under MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) A l l p r owww.natchezgrandhotel.com pRoom e r t i e rate s i n cand l u dblock e C oat mall p l iproperties m e n t a r ywill W iclose r e l e Tuesday, s s I n t e rSeptember nLinden e t Bed a n& dBreakfast: F16, u l l2014 Breakfast. Website: Phone: 601-446-8500 Natchez Grand: All Members: $135/ A l l p riso www.dunleith.com p e r t i e s i n c l u d e C oExecutive m p l iMembers: m e n t$79/night a r y (Code: W i rEDRNTZ14) e l e s s I n t e r n e t 601-445-5472 a n d F u l l Bnight reakfast. Website Industry Partners: $99/night (Code: INPNTZ14) www.lindenbandb.com Phone: 601-445-3506 Dunleith Plantation: Linden Bed & Breakfast: Website: www.natchezgrandhotel.com Natchez Grand: Executive ComfortBoth Suites, Vidalia:and Industry Partner Members: All Members: $135/ night Linden Bed & Breakfast: Dunleith Plantation: Executive Members: @$125/night $79/night (Code: EDRNTZ14) Natchez#6 Grand: Courtyard (Code: #141005MSAE, listed under MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) D All Members:rooms @ $90/night (Code:Both 2014 Joint Executive and Industry Partner Members: L 601-445-5472 O #141005MSAE, listed underAll Members: $135/ night Industry Partners: $99/night (Code: INPNTZ14) S(Code: #6 Courtyard rooms @$125/night MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) Executive Members: $79/night (Code: EDRNTZ14) #6 Main House (Code: #141005MSAE, listed under MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) Conference ) @ $150/night M S(Code: #6 Main House @ $150/night #141005MSAE, listed under MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) www.lindenbandb.com O 601-445-5472 Phone: 601-445-3506 O Industry1.800.260.2715 Partners: $99/night (Code: INPNTZ14) Phone: 601-446-8500 Phone: 601-446-8500 L R Phone: AisLwww.dunleith.com Website www.lindenbandb.com Website: www.natchezgrandhotel.com Phone: 601-445-3506 Website is www.dunleith.com

SO S OM O R L L A SO S OM O R ALL

Comfort Suites, Vidalia: Website: www.natchezgrandhotel.com All Members: @ $90/night (Code: 2014 Joint Dunleith Plantation: Conference ) Comfort Suites, Vidalia: Phone: 1.800.260.2715 Both Executive and Industry Partner Members: DunleithAllPlantation: Members: @ $90/night (Code: 2014 Joint #6 Courtyard rooms @$125/night (Code: #141005MSAE, listed under MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) Both Executive and Industry Partner Members: Conference ) #6 Main House @ $150/night (Code: #141005MSAE, listedlisted underunder MSAE/LSAE Joint Joint Conference) #6 Courtyard rooms @$125/night (Code: #141005MSAE, MSAE/LSAE Conference) Phone: 1.800.260.2715 Phone: #6 Main601-446-8500 House @ $150/night (Code: #141005MSAE, listed under MSAE/LSAE Joint Conference) 16 Connections | Fall 2014 Website601-446-8500 is www.dunleith.com Phone: Website is www.dunleith.com

OLD S S OLD M OOMS S R A L LL R O O AL

2014 LSAE/MSAE Joint State Conference About Our Speakers

Bob Harris, CAE We proudly welcome Bob Harris, CAE, back to Mississippi! MSAE has hosted Bob in 2008 and in 2010. In his presentations at the Joint State Conference, he will delve deeply in to two areas he has not yet presented in detail to MSAE members, Facilitation Training and Risk Management from A-Z. Bob has 25+ years experience with associations, chambers and other nonprofits. His seminars are interactive, focused on core-knowledge and organizational (realistic) capacity. He utilizes case studies, trends and headlines for board orientation, training, strategic planning, staff training and consulting. He is the author of Association Management 101 Online©; creator of the Association Self-Auditing Process© and co-author of “Building an Association Management Company. He is known around the world for sharing best practices and promoting sustainability of associations’ specialties: * Strategic Planning - without games and group hugs * Board Roles and Responsibilities - customized to the organization * Staff Training (risk, efficiency, policy management, governance, etc.)

Mack Dryden Mack Dryden is a writer/comedian/actor who has appeared on The Tonight Show with both Johnny and Jay, acted in such shows as The Guardian and JAG, is a former staff writer for ABC’s Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher. Over the years, he has managed to survive the sharks of showbiz, a terrifying stay in an African prison, two deadly diseases and lived to tell inspiring, motivating and hilarious stories about it all in “Laugh to the Top: A Hilarious Guide to Achieving Your Goals.” Mack was born and raised in Moss Point, Mississippi, earned degrees from both Ole Miss and USM, and—before becoming an entertainer—was an award-winning journalist and a black belt karate champion. Visit www.mackdryden.com for a preview of his talent. Mack will be with us most of the conference and you will not know what is coming next!!

Lou Figeroa Lou Figeroa is an inspirational speaker who speaks on topics relating to finding balance in life. Overcoming crisis and implementing change effectively. He shares messages of hope and inspiration to help empower others for personal success. Lou lives in Southern California and Colorado. He speaks at retreats and travels to conferences to help others create balance in their lives. At age 27, Lou was involved in a train accident resulting in the loss of both legs. His knowledge and perspectives on transformation have made him a powerful coach and guide. Lou is an author and writes articles relating to balance and finding your mental reset button. He teaches techniqies to improve quality of life and is invited to speak at chambers of commerce and business associations across America. Lou will welcome us at the Monday’s Opening Luncheon with his presentation Crossing the Tracks. Fall 2014 | Connections

2014 LSAE/MSAE Joint State Conference Program Information

Facilitation Excellance

Most association executives understand the benefit, and sometimes the necessity, of a Strategic Plan. But, how many times do some board members want to implement something far from a genuine or realistic plan? Or, have they suggested you bring in a third party facilitator? Who better to facilitate or conduct the needs assessment, look at past successes/failures and offer progressive ideas for leading the organization down the three-year path, than a well-trained CEO of the organization? Bob Harris, CAE will navigate us in achieving FACILITATION EXCELLANCE during a two-part training opportunity on Monday, October 6th and Tuesday, October 7th, during the MSAE-LSAE Joint State Conference. In these sessions, Bob will share best practices and encourage peer input as well, in leading the development process and overseeing the implementation, and evaluating the progress of the plan. The information and additional skills acquired during this training will add value to your organization. Your Board of Directors will be grateful for your professionalism and knowledge in leading them to advance their missions, while striving for increased value to the organization and your members.

Risk Management

from A – Z – Apart from those precautions which quickly come to mind (maintaining governing documents whistleblower, conflict of interest, financial reviews) are you up-to-date on those pesky new laws and updates that seem on-going? Bob will explore a few of the newer or changing requirements in regards to: Endorsements, email consent, PCI requirements for accepting credit cards, listserves, software licenses, and apparent authority; just to name a few!! Join us in Natchez as we receive updated information to protect not only our organization, but YOURSELF!

Laugh to the Top In this unique presentation, Mack Dyden will outline the goal-achieving formula and offer practical tools for how to succeed in each step: 1. Control your fears and stresses 2. Maintain a positive mental attitude 3. Identify a specific target 4. Write a plan for how to get to your goal 5. Take decisive action 6. Study the reaction you get, the response 7. Learn from the response, and adjust your approach until you find what works. Mack’s thought-provoking presentation, Laugh to the Top: A Hilarious Guide to Achieving Your Goals, will give attendees the confidence and motivation they need to attack their work-related and personal goals with renewed vigor and fire. They’ll listen, they’ll laugh, and they’ll learn that nothing can prevent them from making themselves and their organizations the very best that they can be. 18

Connections | Fall 2014

2014 LSAE/MSAE Joint State Conference Program Information

Crossing the Tracks

How would you respond if someone laced your drink and you were run over by a train? Lou Figueroa lost both legs after a person tampered with his beverage in a social setting. He’ll share the highs and lows of bouncing back and give you a renewed appreciation for life.

Improve Your Safety and Quality of Life

You heard Lou Figueroa’s story at lunch about encountering a tampered drink. He’ll expand on how he overcame the crisis, his tips for conference safety (including his unique drink-test-safety coasters) and how to improve one’s quality of life with several proven methods: · Conference Safety – Tips to keep attendees safe · Work Life Balance – Simple ways to increase your quality of life · Appreciation for Life – Learning to live with and breathe with intent “Finding your reset button” · Questions and Answers

Experience a New Style of Networking:

Whether you are a CEO, Meeting Planner or Industry Partner, we are always looking for new alternatives to the traditional trade show. Who better, than MSAE and LSAE, to try something different and much more relaxing! This conference will launch Relax & Relate. This new approach to formal networking between Association Executives and Industry Partners will incorporate the breaks into these mini networking sessions. MSAE and LSAE staff will work diligently to match the R&R sessions so that you have time with those organizations that you have a potential of doing business. EXECS!! NO MORE RUNNING AROUND A TRADE SHOW OR SPEED DATING SPACE; SIT BACK & RELAX WHILE LEARNING NEW INFORMATION FROM YOUR PARTNERS! Here is the basic format: •

Executive Members will be assigned a relaxation room and space in that room for all four R&R sessions. That way they always know where to go.

•

Industry Partners who participate will rotate to a different room per session with your “goodies” and marketing materials.

•

We will have 12 Executives partnered with 12 different Industry Partners per session, possibly more depending upon Executive registration.

•

The breaks are offered during this time in each Relaxation Room.

•

R&R reps will have 3 minutes to visit individually with each executive in that session, before rotating to next executive table.

•

If it is a sponsored break, that sponsor may leave a goodie on each Executive’s table or in their seats, as well as display their logo electronically or sponsor supplied banner or sign.

•

We can offer up to 5 groups of Industry Partners, but only 4 R&R sessions. We want you to be matched with your potential customers (i.e.: not those who do not move their meetings or meet out of their own state.) We don’t want to waste your time and resources or frustrate executives who know they can’t do business out of state.

•

Overall you will have up to 48 - or more - valuable contacts with one-on-one time!

•

Most importantly, we have built in time in a special R&R just for our Industry Partners!

•

While executives are busy learning, you will have a lounge to recharge and enjoy the same breaks as the executives. Also a great opportunity for shop-talk!

Fall 2014 | Connections

July 2014 Lunch & Learn Old Capitol Inn Program: Dr. Mary Currier, Mississippi State Department of Health: Mary Currier, M.D., M.P.H, became Mississippi’s State Health Officer in 2010 after serving as State Epidemiologist from 1993 to 2003, and again from 2007 to 2009. Prior to serving as State Epidemiologist, she was a medical consultant with the agency. Dr. Currier began her public health career with the Mississippi State Department of Health as a staff physician for the prenatal care, family planning, STD, and pediatrics programs. Dr. Currier spoke at the MSAE luncheon on July 16. She began her presentation by saying, “We are trying to reach out beyond our walls, because we have learned that health is not just something within the Mississippi State Department of Health, it relates to transportation, sidewalks, grocery stores...everything that you think of.” Hence, the development of a Mississippi Health Improvement Plan and working together Dr. Mary Currier to ensure it contains components critical to the success of improving health in Mississippi. MSAE associations’ members can benefit and contribute greatly to this new program!

“Everybody needs to be involved,” said Dr. Currier. “It’s easier to get folks involved, if they are involved from the beginning.” Many factors on how to solve certain health issues overlap with varying thoughts and opinions. Diverse groups need to be a part of our state’s health discussion.

Charles Lindsey and Krisstel Hunt

Sponsor greeting from Meridian partners

Bill Rosenbladt and Angela Weathersby

Connections | Fall 2014

July 2014 Lunch & Learn Currier continued, “Excessive eating and eating badly while a person is inactive, leads to most bad health issues. Health is related to everything, such as education and the economy. If the workforce isn’t healthy, the economy won’t be as healthy.” Sponsor: Mississippi State University Riley Center’s, Suzanne Helveston, showed a two minute video, highlighting the million dollar upgrade to its technology services including web conferencing, video recording of educational sessions as well as the basic audio and visual equipment, ensuring only the best in technical capabilities. MSU Terri Smith and Bertinna Dubra with Affinity Resource Group visit Riley Center offers striking architecture with Mary Katherine Koonce of Tunica with authentic Victorian decor. “The rich environment is rivaled only by our staff’s attention to detail that enables your conference to run like a well-rehearsed play. Just like our space, we go beyond the typical attention to detail and available staff to provide expert technical assistance, quality service, and relentless follow-up. We place tremendous and staff support needed to make your meetings shine,” explains Helveston.

Bob Wilson and Marty Milstead with guest Joni McClain

Kristen Brock of Hattiesburg introduces Lydia Price from Lake Terrace

You may contact Amy Wilson at awilson@msae-net.org to inquire on how your association can get involved in this effort. Additional information from MS Department of Health and the newly forming Mississippi Health Improvement Plan can be found on page 20 of this issue of Connections.

Fall 2014 | Connections

Welcome New MSAE Members Sharlot Johnson Director of Sales Hyatt Place Ridgeland 1016 Highland Colony Parkway Ridgeland, MS 39157 601-898-8815 601-898-8816 www.hyattplace.hyatt.com sharlot.johnson@hyatt.com Vickie Gryder Administrative Assistant Mississippi Counseling Association PO Box 353 Long Beach, MS 39560 228-669-5015 www.gcdrugfree.org vickie.gryder@gmail.com Hal Miller President Mississippi Trucking Association 825 N President Street Jackson, MS 39202 601-354-0616 601-354-4371 www.mstrucking.org hal.miller@mstrucking.org Ann Logan-Watts Executive Director Linden Bed and Breakfast 1 Conner Circle Natchez, MS 39120 601-445-5472 www.lindenbandb.com lindenbandb@gmail.com

Member Changes

Carolyn Anderson Executive Director Mississippi Counseling Association PO Box 353 Long Beach, MS 39560 228-669-5015 www.gcdrugfree.org carolyn.anderson@lbsdk12.com Susan Nicolais Program Director Mississippi Counseling Association PO Box 353 Long Beach, MS 39560 228-669-5015 www.gcdrugfree.org susan@nonprofit-growth.com Irene Jones Association Sales Manager Sheraton Memphis Downtown 250 N Main Street Memphis, TN 38103 901-214-3626 901-526-1561 www.sheratonmemphisdowntown.com ijones@sheratonmemphisdowntown.com

Tonja Ray-Smith Executive Director Greenwood Convention & Visitors Bureau P.O. Drawer 739 Greenwood, MS 38935 662-453-9197 662-453-5526 www.visitgreenwood.com tonja@visitgreenwoodms.com Carolyn Monfils Director of Sales Hilton Garden Inn Jackson/Madison 320 New Mannsdale Road Madison, MS 39110 601-420-0442 601-936-4227 www.jacksonmadison.hgi.com carolyn.monfils@hilton.com DeAnna Dillard Executive Director P.O. Box 395 Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association Clinton, MS 39060 662-323-5057 www.msvet.org msvetmed@gmail.com

Membership Meeting November 19th Hilton Jackson 11:30 - 1:00

Celebrate associations with your colleagues and honor retiring Board Members and elect and welcome 2015 Board of Directors.

Connections | Fall 2014

Fall 2014 | Connections

MSDH Encourages Associations’ Leaderships to be Involved in Health Improvement Plan Mississippi Department of Health leads the effort in the formation a Mississippi Health Improvement Plan and in doing so MSDH is reaching out to state trade and professional associations to assist in bringing this program to the businesses, streets, and doorsteps of Mississippi employers and residents. “We all need to row this boat together,” said Dr. Currier, MD, MPH, State Health Officer. Dr. Currier reported to the MSAE members attending the July 16th Lunch & Learn, “Based upon these findings, it is essential for us to work together, across the healthcare system, to improve the health of the citizens of our state. To that end, we are embarking on a process to use available health data and information collected from Mississippi citizens, to develop priorities for effective interventions that will affect health in the state. And, work together to ensure the improvement plan contains components critical to the success of improving health of our residents.” As business leaders, professional & trade association executives, know that Mississippi ranks either on or near the bottom in multiple key health status indicators. Many of these health outcomes are related to social conditions that our citizens must live with on a daily basis. Major determinants of health such as poverty, lack of insurance, limited access to primary care, inadequate prenatal care, along with risky health behaviors associated with these determinants, such as low fruit/vegetable consumption, low physical activity, and a high prevalence of smoking contribute to the poor health status of our citizens. At the community level, state assessment and state improvement plans take a lot of inclusion from all organizations. One of those tools is Mobilizing for Action 24

through Planning and Partnerships (MAPP). This is a strategic approach to community health improvement. This tool helps communities improve health and quality of life through community-wide strategic planning. The MAPP tool was developed by NACCHO in cooperation with the Public Health Practice Program Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The vision for implementing MAPP is: “Communities achieving improved health and quality of life by mobilizing partnerships and taking strategic action.” The four key points to be derived from the MAPP process are: 1. Community Themes and Strengths Assessment 2. Local Public Health System Assessment 3. Community Health Status Assessment 4. Forces of Change Assessment The process for health assessment, identifying and communicating with stake-holders collecting and analyzing the data, then getting those findings out there and having a communications plan is important. When this is finalized and different focus groups or organizations meet, then MAPS is an important tool for structuring those meetings. There are three core initiatives: 1. Assessment; 2. Policy Development; and 3. Assurance. Beyond that is pulling everyone together and working toward a common structured goal. For additional information visit www.HealthyMS.com or call 1-866-HLTHY4U Connections | Fall 2014

Obstacles to Board Decision-Making By Robert C. Harris, CAE I have observed many powerful boards that “melt-down” when making decisions. Two classic explanations as to why boards fail: The Abilene Paradox and GroupThink.

The Road to Abilene The Abilene Paradox occurs when directors don’t voice their opinions. There is a tale that describes the concept. One day a family was visiting in-laws on a hot day in Texas. While enjoying a game of dominos and lemonade on the shady porch someone says, “Let’s go to Abilene for lunch at the café.” They piled into the unairconditioned Buick to drive the 53-miles to Abilene in 104 degree heat. The food was predictably bad. As they returned, hot, sweaty and with indigestion, they realized that nobody had wanted to go to Abilene in the first place. Each person thought the others wanted to go so they went along with the group’s decision without voicing their desire to do otherwise. Often directors sit at the table listening to an idea, not quite agreeing, but voting so they appear to be cooperative. Leaders can avoid this harmful approach by being urged to speak up.

GroupThink GroupThink can be illustrated by Ford’s decision to produce the Edsel, or NASA’s mission to launch the Challenger on schedule in the face of adverse evidence. GroupThink occurs when directors place the goal of consensus above all else.

The Abilene Paradox is when directors disagree but don’t voice their opinions. When the process of consensus overtakes good judgement it is a sign of GroupThink.

The desire to agree becomes so dominant that it overrides the consideration of alternative courses of action. The originator of the concept, psychologist Irving Janis, explained that individuals don’t lose their intelligence when they join a group, but they may appear stupid or lazy as they steadfastly focus on the goal of consensus to pass motions. Executives should understand and orient the board to these principles.

Robert C. Harris, CAE offers leadership orientation, strategic planning and staff seminars on efficiency. He can be contacted in Tallahassee, Florida at (850) 5706000 or bob@RCHCAE.com. His tools based association management products include the book, Building an Association Management Company, the flash cards Free-Association for Board Orientation; the laminated Board Cheat Sheet; and the 48-page Association Self Auditing Process® manual. Fall 2014 | Connections

2015 MSAE Mid-Year Conference Tupelo, MS

Wednesday, April 29 – Friday, May 1, 2015

Index to Advertisers Convention & Visitors’ Bureaus Hattiesburg/Lake Terrace ...................11 Lauderdale County Tourism ................6 Oxford Convention & Visitors’ Bureau.......Inside Back Cover

MSAE CONNECTIONS Connecting you with MSAE members throughout the year! Connections Spring 2014

Connections Winter 2013

The New Look of MSAE

Tupelo Convention & Visitors’ Bureau ...............................23

Hotels & Resorts Beau Rivage .......................Back Cover Golden Nugget Biloxi.....................Inside Front Cover Gold Strike ..........................................7 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino ............... 14

MSAE 2013 Annual Report

2014 MSAE Mid-Year Conference

2013 LSAE/MSAE Fall Conference

157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management

Join the conversation Like us on facebook facebook.com/mssocietyofassociationexecs

PCH Hotels..........................................5 To advertise contact Martha Ann Cole 334.271.0930 | mac@cmconline.biz 26

Connections | Fall 2014

OXFORD Conference Center

For play, for work, for festivities conferences job & health fairs continuing education business meetings trade shows retreats church services fundraisers & non-profit weddings merchandise shows musicals & concerts and much more!

Book your event at the Oxford Conference Center Today! Call the Hampton Inn Conference Center to make reservations! Hampton Inn Conference Center 103 Ed Perry Boulevard Oxford, MS 38655 Ph: 662-234-5565 Fax: 662-234-5535 email: oxdea_hampton@hilton.com www.oxfordconferencecenter.hamptoninn.com

102 Ed Perry Blvd. Oxford, MS 38655 662-232-2367 662-232-8680 107 Courthouse Sq. Oxford, MS 38655 662-232-2477

www.oxfordcvb.com

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