MSAE Connections Summer 2010 by Creative Marketing Concepts

Summer 2010

Mid-Year Conference in Natchez March 28-30, 2010 The Right Way to Approve Board Minutes A Taste of MSAE

NationaljStrength.

Southern Roots.

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

Summer 2010

Features

CONTENTS

PCI Compliance - What it Means to Your Association

What’s the Right Way to Approve Board Minutes?

Mid-Year Conference Article

LSAE/MSAE Joint Conference

Massive Loss of Tax Exemptions Looming

Alexey Talai - Inspiration & Humanitarian

A Taste of MSAE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Mike Pepper Vice-President Layne Bruce Past President Bob Wilson Secretary-Treasurer Shari Veazey

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS Linda Ross Aldy Carol Hardwick Marty Milstead Donna Yowell

Departments

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

President’s Perspective

Welcome New MSAE Members

Calendar of Events

Advertiser Index

Kristen Brock Christine McInnis Penny Quave Kim Thomas

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Amy Wilson

Published by: Creative Marketing Concepts 1085 Chesson Hill Drive Fitzpatrick, AL 36029 Phone: 334.725.0093

For Advertising Information Call 334.271.0930

Enjoy the lazy days of summer in Mississippi!

CONNECTIONS

A MEETING FILLED D WITH

wow!

Superb meetings.

They happen here.

Imagine planning the perfect meeting, where everything runs smoothly from start to ﬁnish. Where state-of-the-art technology combines with unparalleled service, distinctive dining, and incredible entertainment all under one roof. Welcome to Gold Strike Casino Resort, an MGM MIRAGE™ property where the only thing higher than our stakes are our standards. • 30,000 sq. ft. convention center • Wireless internet access

• 1,133 spacious rooms & suites • On-site IT & banquet teams

Contact Kim Jordan Sides at 1.866.607.3444 or kjordan@goldstrike.com to book your convention experience today.

goldstrike.com goldstrike.com I 1.888.24K.PLAY I

President’s Perspective

Mike Pepper

MSAE Mid-Year Conference For those of you who missed the Mid-Year Conference hosted by Natchez, you missed a truly outstanding lineup of informative speakers and Natchez hospitality. Bob Harris, CAE, always has the latest information in Association management, and Jenny Nolan shared her insight on being positive and improving productivity in the workplace. A special treat was hearing the inspiring life story of luncheon speaker Alexey Talai from Belarus. A large crowd converged to make our second Mid-Year Conference one to remember. I want to recognize the planning committee for their direction and fresh ideas. A big thank you goes out to the participants and sponsors who took time out of their busy schedules to make this event a success. As we move through the summer months, many of our members will be having annual conventions. Good luck with these and to all the associate members who work especially hard to make these events memorable.

I will look forward to seeing you at the next MSAE Lunch and Learn. We have continued to draw record attendance with excellent speakers and topics. Speaking of speakers, if you have ideas on topics or speakers please let either Amy or me know. Lunch and Learns provide an excellent opportunity for members to introduce someone new to MSAE or welcome members who have not recently participated in events. The information learned and networking opportunities gained will pay dividends to your Association in the future. Please mark on your calendar the Joint Fall Conference with Louisiana SAE September 19 – 21 at the Riverview Plaza Hotel and Mobile Convention Center in Mobile, Alabama. As always, feel free to contact me with any ideas to better our Association. I appreciate the support you have given to MSAE. Mike Pepper MSAE President

THANK YOU MSAE MID-YEAR SPONSORS NATCHEZ CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU NATCHEZ CONVENTION CENTER

Welcome Sponsor: Hancock Bank

Midnight Moxie: VISITHATTIESBURG

Cash Prize Sponsor: MS Gulf Coast CVB

Continental Breakfast Sponsor: Hampton Inn & Suites, Natchez

Bob Harris Resource Sponsor: MDA/Tourism Division

Tuesday Break Sponsor: Harrah’s Tunica

Monday’s Luncheon Sponsor: Natchez Convention Center

Tuesday’s Luncheon Sponsor: Natchez Grand Hotel

SUNDAY OPENING NIGHT EVENT A special thanks to all participating local artists and restaurants. MONDAY NIGHT’S EVENT Monmouth Plantation Natchez Eola Hotel Bowie’s Tavern Natchez Manor Andrew’s Tavern

CONNECTIONS

PCI Compliance – What It Means to Your Association By Amy Airhart, PCI Manager, Affiniscape Merchant Solutions PCI…What does it mean? Is it important or just another acronym??? Accepting credit cards is a great way to offer a flexible payment option for your members and improve your cash flow; consequently, this means handling sensitive information that is very desirable to criminals. In an effort to keep fraud and identity theft at bay, the major credit card brands established a PCI Security Standards Council in 2006 with the purpose of developing uniform regulations for all businesses that process, store or transmit credit card data. By following the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards (PCI-DSS) guidelines, you greatly reduce your association’s vulnerability to a security breach. Not only does this send a powerful message to members that the association can be trusted to handle credit card data with care, but it also communicates to the Board of Directors that the association has done due diligence in protecting sensitive member information. How do you store paper copies of credit card data? How do you process credit cards? These are practical security issues addressed by the PCI-DSS and apply to all merchants, regardless of credit card processing volume. Failure to meet requirements can result in security breaches, costly fines, and on-site audits. Many acquiring banks have already mandated level 4 merchants (those who process fewer than 20,000 e-commerce Visa transactions per year) to validate their compliance and are charging upward of $250 per month for non-compliance fees. Please check with your acquiring bank for specific deadlines and fees. Even though the PCI-DSS is not a federal law, several states have mandated compliance to many of the provisions. Minnesota became one of the first states to adopt a set of enforceable standards which protect credit card data. Since then Nevada, Washington and Massachusetts have also adopted similar laws. Mississippi could be next. Implementing small changes can have a big impact on your credit card information security. While there are guidelines in the PCI-DSS that address internet security and payment applications, there are also guidelines for how organizations handle credit card data on a physical level (www.pcisecuritystandards.org). Assessing your association’s vulnerabilities is a great way to fix potential issues and educate the staff. According to some reports, the majority of credit card fraud is caused by simple carelessness, loss, and theft (www.datalossdb.org/statistics). Office security policies that define procedures for changing passwords, storing or transporting information and disposing of credit card data can make the difference between compliance and non-compliance. There are several steps a merchant must complete to become PCI Compliant:

• Identify Validation Type (this is based on how credit card transactions are processed) • Complete the SAQ (Self Assessment

Questionnaire)

• Complete and provide evidence of a vulnerability scan, if necessary, from an approved vender on a quarterly basis.

• Complete the Attestation of Compliance • Submit the SAQ/ Attestation of

Compliance and evidence of a passing scan (if required) to acquirer. The steps to becoming PCI Compliant may seem a bit overwhelming; however, your members and organization will directly benefit from the increased security. For information regarding PCI Compliance or to learn how Affiniscape Merchant Solutions can help you through this process, please visit www.pcicentral.com or contact Amy Airhart at 866-376-0947.

CONNECTIONS

Do you think a true partner in the management, growth and success of your association should play an active role in helping you generate non-dues revenue?

WE DO! Affiniscape has been a leader in association management technology solutions since 2000. In 2009, we paid our association partners more than $850,000 in royalties through our Association Career Network. That’s non-dues revenue at its best!

Call us today to learn more about what

800-644-9060 x3

www.affiniscape.com

WE DO for over 1200 associations like yours.

Uniquely Different...for Associations

YOUR meeting is a big deal tO Us,

nO matteR the size.

Our facilities are fully equipped with the latest technology including complimentary Wi-Fi throughtout the hotel and in all meeting rooms and a 24-hour Business Center; plus guest rooms that help your attendees stay productive while away from the office. And, when your meeting happens here, it’s most likely the only one happening here. So we can be more focused on your meeting, and you can stay focused on it’s success. When tomorrow’s a big day, stay HGI tonight. Located three blocks from the Jackson Convention Complex.

235 W. Capitol St. Jackson, MS 39201 601-353-5464

Reservations: jacksondowntown.hgi.com • 1-877-STAY-HGI

What’s the Right Way to Approve Board Minutes? Question: Is it OK to indicate that board meeting minutes are approved based on, “Hearing no changes, let the record reflect that the prior minutes stand as approved?” Or should a motion be made to approve? Answer: While a motion is not required to approve the minutes of the previous meeting, the board of directors should either present a motion or give unanimous consent. A summary of the Robert’s Rules of Order’s treatment of meeting minutes: “The President/Chair/Secretary will note that minutes have been provided in advance of the meeting. The President/Chair/Secretary will then ask if there are any corrections to the minutes. If no corrections are noted, the Board can either approve the minutes by unanimous consent or someone can present a formal motion to approve the minutes.” If the motion is made but not approved (and not challenged), then it would be interpreted as unanimous consent. Robert’s Rules: “It is generally smoother to do the approval of minutes by unanimous consent. A motion is normally unnecessary unless, for example, there has been a dispute over the accuracy or propriety of something in the minutes. Whether or not a motion for approval has been offered, the chair may simply say ‘if there are no corrections, the minutes stand approved.’” In general, use the opportunity for a motion to reflect that the board has done its due diligence by carefully reviewing the minutes and avowing their accuracy. By Bob Harris (bob@rchcae.com), Lisa Hix, Venable Law Firm (lmhix@Venable.com), and Jeff Tenenbaum, Venable Law Firm (jstenenbaum@Venable.com). M E E T

I N

TUNICA

RAKE IN THE

SAVINGS When it comes to affordable venues, inexpensive lodging and premium entertainment, Tunica lets you move your business forward – without high costs setting you back. ★ Meeting facilities up to 48,000 square feet ★ Over 6,000 premium hotel rooms ★ Countless dining and entertainment choices ★ Just 30 minutes south of Memphis Plan a more effective, more affordable meeting in Tunica. Contact our meeting professionals.

1.888.4TUNICA ★ TUNICATRAVEL.COM CONNECTIONS

e c e n c e n r e e r f e n f o n C o C r a r e a Y e Y idMid AEE M M MSSA 0 30 8--3 28 M Maarrcchh 2

“The 2010 MSAE Mid-Year Conference was a worthwhile investment that provided a great forum for networking as well as gaining meaningful insights on strengthening association planning and governance.”

The invitation for MS Society of Association Executive members to “Take a Step Back into Time” was realized on March 28-30 during David Roberts, President, MS Trucking Association the 2010 MSAE Mid-Year Conference, held in Natchez. Over eighty MSAE members joined together to “Look at the Past and Excel in the Future” through educational meetings, networking opportunities and fantastic fun in an environment filled with plenty of local flavor. The 2010 meeting was the 2nd Mid-Year Conference for MSAE and is an event that has now become a much anticipated annual gathering for our association. Entertainment We were welcomed to Natchez with wide arms and memorable style at the Mid-Year Conference Opening Reception. Sitting on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the Natchez Visitors Center offered members a pristine nighttime setting for the event. The Natchez Convention & Visitors Bureau invited local partners to showcase their finest fare and we were blown away by the essence of the South presented! Southern favorites such as shrimp & grits and mint juleps were on hand while classic sounds of a local band energized the crowd.

After hours of entertainment, with full bellies and light-up glasses in tow, MSAE members boarded city buses for a rare nighttime tour of the Natchez City Cemetery. Mr. Don Estes, a veritable expert on all things buried, guided the group through dim shadows as we learned about the graves, crypts and mausoleums on-site and those who were laid to rest within them. This mysterious tour spoke of the distinctive background that only Natchez could provide and was certainly a highlight of the Conference! “The MSAE Mid-Year Conference is always a highlight of the year. Not only did our Natchez hosts shower us with their famous hospitality, it was a great opportunity to network, play and learn. The continuing education sessions were outstanding.” Ricki Garrett, Executive Director, MS Nurses Association

CONNECTIONS

“Take a Step Back in Time”

Monday’s entertainment was a welcome respite after a long day of new information and novel ideas shared from professional speakers. The evening began in Natchez as we took a short ride that seemed to take us decades away in just a quick drive to the Monmouth Plantation. Here, MSAE members had the opportunity to tour a historic landmark and enjoy great food and drinks. Next, it was Downtown Natchez! We were blown away by a greeting from a jazz street band who guided us on our walking journey throughout Downtown Natchez, which included stops at the Prentiss Club, Andrew’s Irish Pub and Bowie’s Tavern.

Part of the appeal of meeting in Natchez was the opportunity to discover arts, music, culture and a natural beauty that is distinctive to a city of its age and history. To those of us in attendance, we received a first-hand glimpse into this graceful community and discovered a small piece of what’s been 300 years in the making: a progressive community chock full of charm and the perfect setting for our 2010 Mid-Year Conference! Education The Natchez Convention Center served as our training grounds during the 2010 MSAE Mid-Year Conference. Conveniently located in Historic Downtown, the Convention Center staff welcomed us, as MSAE members prepared to soak in information from a wonderful lineup of professional speakers who were determined to help us excel – just as the Conference program promised! Motivational speaker Jenny Nolan provided witty words of wisdom during our Opening Session, appropriately titled “Do you Want Some Cheese with that Whine?” Jenny is a nationally-known motivational speaker who graciously joined us throughout the Mid-Year Conference to share her humorous and beneficial guidelines on how to be a better individual! During the first session, we learned that statistics tell us that 78% of conversation daily is negative. Through the character “Negative Nelda,” Jenny inspired those in attendance to throw self-defeating behavior out the window and improve our attitudes to be the best that we and our professional environment can be! What a great approach with which to begin our Conference!

CONNECTIONS

Continued on page 12.

Once we were inspired to cheerfully open our ears and minds to more helpful information, it was time to hear from Bob Harris. As our keynote speaker, Bob taught innovative techniques directly related to associations, chambers and charities. Who more appropriate to provide these tips than Bob, who has been dubbed the “Association Guru” time and time again. Bob has spent his entire career studying boards and professional staffs across the globe and has developed countless “best practices” that he generously shared with us. During “Flawless Strategic Planning” Bob had one focus: setting a plan! Attendees were taught the ins-and-outs of how to create not just a plan, but a successful one! Bob has seen the best and the worst and, in turn, was able to provide priceless tools on how to prepare for planning, implement a plan, and, most importantly, how to keep it alive for use far into the future. Next from Bob was “Boards and Meetings” “The MSAE Mid-Year Conference in Natchez was my first to attend which was an introduction into what and I will be back. I learned more from Bob Harris in two days that I works and what doesn’t when it comes to was able to use in preparing for my next board meeting than I could Association boards or directors. Bob shared have gleaned on my own in a year. The classes and the networking inventive suggestions and welcomed the were very helpful for a new association executive.” audience to ask any questions they may have, and boy were there lots! From sticky Mark Leggett, President, MS Poultry Association legal inquiries to questions about even stickier personality issues, Bob offered best practices for agendas, meetings, and board orientations. During his last session, “Risk Management”, we learned the latest and greatest about common association risks. This up-to-date information proved to be invaluable for the Association Executives in attendance, and many are relieved to know the cutting-edge information before it’s too late! Bob’s experience and knowledge played an important role in MSAE’s goal to provide not only an enjoyable but also educational experience to all who came. In the midst of Bob and Jenny’s lectures, there was a myriad of other educational activity buzzing around us. Associate members took some time out to fine-tune skills by participating in Round Table Discussions. Topics ranged from “Creative Negotiating & the Experience” to “Latest Trends on the Horizon”. Associate Members were also schooled by one of the best in the MS tourism industry – Bill Canter. As a long-time employee of the Tunica CVB, Bill taught his peers how to adapt to a new landscape with uncertain economic times, tight budgets and diminished resources. This was an open discussion forum where Bill led Associate members to share ideas and realize that partnership is the key to success! “The 2010 Mid-Year Conference was very educational and informative. One of the best that I have attended. I especially thought that the Round Table Discussions touched on issues that we deal with on a everyday basis with conference attendees and tourism consumers. I think that we as an organization gained priceless knowledge and useful information to bring back that will help the growth and development of our communities.” Christine Blackmon McInnis, Jackson CVB

CONNECTIONS

Speed Dating was back for a 2nd year after its successful debut at last year’s Mid-Year Conference in Hattiesburg. This year proved us smart in bringing it back, as members participated in 3-minute meetings of one-on-one interaction between association staff and suppliers complete with door prizes and cash drawings. It was a great networking opportunity in which the entire group could participate!

To wrap up two days of insight and instruction, Jenny Nolan talked about the “Seven L’s of Leadership and Learning” at our closing luncheon. Jenny’s positive attitude was contagious, and she ended the Conference on an enthusiastic note, inspiring MSAE members to go back out in the professional world and be effective leaders. She brought us back to a place of re-commitment and provided us with tools to take everything that was taught during the MSAE Mid-Year Conference and re-enter the work week with vigor and enthusiasm! From education to entertainment, MSAE members engaged in a myriad of helpful and amusing opportunities over the course of three days in Natchez. It certainly showed that our organization is excelling at providing us the wonderful opportunity to network and grow as professionals as we came together for the 2nd Annual Mid-Year Conference. Natchez showed us that no community is the same, and we appreciate this year’s event while eagerly looking forward to next year’s 2011 Mid-Year Conference in Vicksburg, which will have its own local flavor for us to experience!

CONNECTIONS

· Mobile Bay ·

AFFORDABLE MEETINGS IN INCREDIBLE LOCATIONS When planning your next event, consider your options. Whether you are searching for a place with contemporary ﬂair, classic style or inspiring history, three of Mobile Bay’s top hotels promise to meet your expectations, not to mention going above and beyond. The Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa has been entertaining business and leisure guests since 1847 and its rich history provides a unique experience on its own. Equally as interesting is The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa. Built in 1852, this hotel has served as the social center of Mobile. A short walk from The Battle House is the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel, offering incredible accommodations and world-class service. These three locations allow you to enhance your itinerary with 2 award winning European-inspired spas and 2 world class Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail sites, not to mention 2 AAA 4 diamond restaurants. Call today to tailor your event to ﬁt your schedule with the options you prefer. Part of the Resort Collection on Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail

251.438.4000 renaissanceriverview.com

251.928.9201 marriottgrand.com

251.338.2000 rsabattlehouse.com

LSAE/MSAE Joint Conference September 19-21 Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel Mobile Bay Convention Center Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel The LSAE/MSAE Planning Committee is deep into the throws of making final plans for the 2010 Joint Conference in Mobile, Alabama September 19 - 21, 2010. “We look forward to sending the brochure in July with presentation topics, speakers and a selection of fun and exciting additional activities,” states Amy Wilson, MSAE Executive Director. “Layne Bruce, MSAE Conference Chairperson and I have enjoyed the working relationship with LSAE Executive Director Shannon Kuetemeyer and their Conference Chair Jodi Beaudreux.” The host hotel, the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel, is providing one complimentary hotel room for Executive Members (one/association.) The meetings, receptions and trade shows are located at the Mobile Convention Center just across the street from the hotel. The Battlehouse Hotel is also sponsoring a Pool Spa Party and Lunch for attendees on site at this beautiful and historic property. Watch your emails as plans develop and your mailboxes for the conference brochure.

Interior of the Battle House Interior of the Mobile Convention Center

. y a B le i b o M l fu ti u a e Sunset on the b

. ew vi is th y jo en ou y s a x Dine, fish, sail or just rela

CONNECTIONS

Massive Loss of Tax Exemptions Looming The Internal Revenue Service is cleaning out its files. As reported by the New York Times, at midnight on May 17, 2010, an estimated 400,000 charities, associations and other nonprofit organizations are expected to lose their tax-exempt status. This is not a result of any overt action by the IRS; rather it is due to section 1223 of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (the “Pension Protection Act”). The Pension Protection Act expanded the annual IRS filing requirements for tax-exempt organizations to include virtually all such organizations. Previously, informational returns were only required for organizations with gross receipts of $25,000 or more. The Pension Protection Act also added a provision to the Internal Revenue Code that automatically revokes the tax-exempt status of an organization required to file an annual return that fails to do so for three consecutive years. The purpose of the filing requirement is to allow the IRS to get a clearer picture of the vast landscape of tax-exempt organizations. As such, even organizations that consider themselves to be inactive are required to file returns. The automatic revocation provision is effective for all tax periods beginning on or after January 1, 2007. As such, the three-year tax period for organizations that use a calendar year as their fiscal year ends on May 15, 2010, a Saturday, and required forms are due the next business day, May 17, 2010. Failure to file the required information by the deadline may result in an automatic revocation. Consequences of Revocation Revocation of tax-exempt status has several severe consequences. First, an organization that has its exemption revoked may be required to file either Form 1120, U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return, or the Form 1041, U.S. Income Tax Return for Estates and Trusts, and pay tax on its net income. Also, if revoked, a 501(c)(3) organization will lose its ability to receive taxdeductible charitable donations. Additionally, these organizations will be removed from Publication 78, Cumulative List of Organizations Described in Section 170(c) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Notification The name of every organization whose tax-exempt status has been revoked will be published as an announcement in the Internal Revenue Bulletin and included in a list of revoked organizations posted on the IRS website. This list will be available to the public and will likely draw the attention of state charity and tax officials. Additionally, the Internal Revenue Service will notify each organization by sending revocation letters to those organizations whose exempt status is automatically revoked. Group Exemptions Organizations covered under a group exemption also may be at risk of losing their tax-exempt status. If the parent or central organization fails to file its own informational return for the previous three years, the group exemption is dissolved and subordinate organizations will no longer be recognized as tax exempt. Additionally, if the parent or central organization does not file a group return on behalf of the subordinate organizations for three consecutive years, the subordinate organizations will be revoked, provided they have not filed their own information returns for three consecutive years. (A group return is a Form 990 with all of the subordinates’ information aggregated together, filed by the parent or central organization, and not including the parent or central organization’s information.) Note that the annual IRS filing required of the parent or central organization in connection with group exemptions is separate and distinct from the information return filing requirement. All subordinate organizations must either file their own individual information returns or be included in a group return in order to avoid revocation under the new three-year rule. Reinstatement If an organization is revoked for failure to file the required information returns, there is no shortened reinstatement process. Instead, the Pension Protection Act specifies that to be reinstated as a tax-exempt organization, the organization must re-apply for tax-exempt status by filing the appropriate IRS application for recognition of tax-exempt status form (Form 1023 or Form 1024). Note that if the application is approved, it generally will only be retroactive to the date of the filing of the application; in most cases, this means there will be a significant period of time for which the entity will be treated as taxable and not exempt. Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate user fee depending on the organization’s expected gross revenue.

CONNECTIONS

Because the process for applying for recognition of tax-exempt status can be both time-consuming and expensive, it will be much easier and less expensive for organizations to meet the filing obligations provided by the Pension Protection Act. Avoiding Revocation Automatic revocation can be avoided, and there is still time to file an informational return. Forms are due by the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of the organization’s fiscal year (May 17, 2010 for organizations that use a calendar year). Filing is especially easy for organizations with gross receipts of less than $25,000, as they only need to fill out an online postcard, Form 990-N. Organizations with gross receipts of more than $25,000 are required to file either Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. Additionally, an organization that needs additional time to prepare its Form 990 can request an automatic three-month extension by filing Form 8868, Application for Extension of Time to File an Exempt Organization Return, before the due date for the Form 990. An additional three months can requested, for a total extension time of six months, if the organization can show reasonable cause for the delay in filing. Please note that extensions do not apply to Form 990-N, the online postcard. As such, organizations that request additional time will be required to file the longer Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. Additional resources on the new filing requirements and automatic revocation are available at the following links: • Stephanie Strom, One-Fourth of Nonprofits Are to Lose Tax Breaks, New York Times, April 22, 2010, available at http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/23/us/23exempt.html • Automatic Revocation of Tax-Exempt Status for Failure to File Annual Return or Notice – Frequently Asked Questions and Answers, April 27, 2010, http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=221600,00.html * * * * * For more information, contact Jeffrey Tenenbaum or Kristalyn Loson at 202-344-4000, or at jstenenbaum@Venable.com or kjloson@Venable.com.

Although this article addresses information regarding a May 17, RR_AssnExecs_AdFINAL:Layout 2010 deadline, it may still be vital information to insure 1 9/18/09 11:05 AM Page 1 your association has filed or filed appropriately. The information should also prove helpful in planning your 2011 tax filings.

River Room Conference

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Experience the beauty and grace of the old South at Monmouth Plantation! 36 Melrose Ave. Natchez, MS 39120 p.800.828.4531 p.601.442.5852 www.monmouthplantation.com

Greater Jackson’s Most Dististinctive Gathering Place.

Center

• 3,000 Sq. Ft. Of Flexible Meeting Space Accommodating Up To 250 Guests • Wide Variety Of Food & Beverage Services For All Budgets • Complimentary Planning Consultations

601-933-2720 Monmouth is an historic gem, located in Natchez, MS Ideal for corporate retreats Entire facility available for special events Two conference rooms for all your needs Break-out session space Audiovisuals and Wi-Fi Catered working lunches Fine and casual dining options daily Additional activities include: Historic tours, Shopping, Antiquing, Golfing, Fishing

CONNECTIONS

info@riverroomflowood.com

100 RIDGE WAY, FLOWOOD, MS • RIVERROOMFLOWOOD.COM

Alexey Talai Inspiration & Humanitarian Meeting Alexey Talai is a sobering experience. At the age of 16, Alexey was severely injured by an undiscovered WWII landmine and lost his arms and legs. He could easily be bitter about suffering from this horrific accident. Instead he is very positive and engaging, and not once in his story do you hear self-pity. He is only interested in turning his tragedy into a positive experience for children less fortunate, and to share his message so that others will perhaps be inspired to do the same. Alexey has taken on an ambitious mission. His dream is to provide adequate housing and educational opportunities for a forgotten group – not only orphans, but also disabled orphans in his home country of Belarus. His first project is a residence in his hometown, but his long-range plan is to expand beyond one house to create a series of “villages” for these children. The residences and villages will ultimately be staffed by residents who are graduates of this innovative project. He also wants to help disabled children with the most basic of needs to improve their mobility and independence, whether they live in his residences or with their own families. In his newsletter, he reports that he was able to provide a motorized wheelchair for a young girl from his hometown, and he describes how her eyes sparkled at this amazing gift. His goal for this year is to complete the office space and firmly establish his international headquarters in Belarus. Through his travels, he is also working to set up a network of sponsors worldwide. If you attended the meeting in Natchez, you heard Alexey speak at the luncheon and saw the slideshow of the work he has been able to accomplish so far. There is much more work to be done at his orphanage in Belarus, but Alexey’s primary purpose was not to make an appeal for donations. Instead, he wants to learn as much as he can about associations and other non-profits and apply that knowledge to his passion. Acclaimed association expert, Bob Harris, CAE, has taken an active role by serving as Alexey’s mentor in the United States and has introduced him to many associations and organizations. Alexey has also spoken before associations in Europe and most notably addressed the Minsk Association for Business and Employers earlier this year. Alexey states on his website, “What can I make of myself, how can I be a benefit to society instead of a burden? While I don’t feel like a burden, sometimes I am treated as such. Or people think I can’t add value to society.” This inspiring young man is a lesson to all of us that even in the most dire circumstances, hard work and determination can make a profound difference in just one life. For more information on Alexey and his projects, including opportunities for sponsorship, please visit his website at cafeindependence.web.com. To make a donation towards his project make your check payable to MSAE and denote Alexey Talai and mail to MSAE P. O. Box 12467, Jackson, MS 39236.

CONNECTIONS

See How We Can Help Grow Your Association Communications Programs for Your Members We provide: Newsletters Magazines Annual Meeting Programs Mailers Brochures Membership Directories e-newsletters and Much More!

ANY EVENT IMAGINABLE, NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED. Trying to piece together your event? Don’t worry. There’s a new place with the space, amenities, and expertise to make it happen, seamlessly. JACKSONCONVENTIONCOMPLEX.COM

Creative Solutions for All Your Communication Needs

877.383.MEET • 601.960.2321 • Jackson, Mississippi

334.725.0093 terri@cmconline.biz www.cmconline.biz

CONNECTIONS

CCC5211 MSAEMagazineMarch'10.indd 1

1/26/10 9:44:05 AM

A Taste of MSAE Inspired by the delicious food and beverages in Natchez, MSAE Connections has launched a new regular feature article: A Taste of MSAE will highlight a signature, traditional, or favorite recipe from a chef from one of our associate member’s property or caterer. If you would like to submit an entry for a future issue of MSAE Connections, please email a brief description of your property or caterer and a little background information about your chef, the recipe and a photo of the delicious creation! When submitting the recipe, please indicate why your chef chose that particular selection. We hope you enjoy this first Taste of MSAE!

Chef Scott Varnedoe

• • • •

Executive Chef and General Manager, Monmouth Plantation Born in Pensacola, FL and raised in Baton Rouge, LA Influences: His parents, both accomplished cooks; brother Todd, an executive chef in Cornwall, England; Chef John Folse Honors and Awards: Invited to present a James Beard House dinner in NYC on July 28, 2010; Multiple Gold, Silver, and Bronze medal recipient; featured as one of the top five chefs in New Orleans in Bon Appetit magazine.

Varnedoe Bloody Mary 4 cups tomato or vegetable juice, chilled 1 ½ cups vodka 3 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice 3 tablespoons fresh-squeezed lime juice 1 tablespoon horseradish 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon celery salt ¼ teaspoon onion powder ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon Tabasco (or more if desired) Cracked black pepper

Garnish options: Celery sticks, pickled okra, pickled pole beans, marinated carrot spears, skewered pickled onions, skewered boiled shrimp, stuffed green olives, pickled asparagus. Stir together all ingredients in a pitcher and serve over ice. To serve, garnish as desired and salt glass rims with lemon juice and seasoned or Creole salt.

CONNECTIONS

MSAE Welcomes New Associate Members

New Executive Members

Associate Member Change

Karla Caudill

Jennifer Anderson

Leigh Lucroy

Director of Sales Whispering Woods Hotel and Conference Center 11200 East Goodman Road Olive Branch, MS 38654 662-890-2896 662-895-1590 kcaudill@wwconferencecenter.com

Gloria Cooley

Sales Manager Jackson Marriott 200 E. Amite St Jackson, MS 39201 601-969-5100 601-969-9665 gcooley@columbiasussex.com

Carol Jones

Executive Director The Chamber of Flowood 115 Laurel Park Cove, Ste 108 Flowood, MS 39232 601-932-8007 601-932-0041 office@flowoodchamber.com

Assistant General Manager/Sales Old Capitol Inn 226 N State St Jackson, MS 39201 601-359-9000 601-355-5587 Leigh@oldcapitolinn.com

Tracy Diez

Executive Director The Chamber of Flowood 115 Laurel Park Cove, Ste 108 Flowood, MS 39232 601-932-8007 601-932-0041 admin@flowoodchamber.com

Executive Member Change

William Fulton

Monmouth 36 Melrose Ave Natchez, MS 39120 601-442-5852 601-446-7762 carol@monmouthplantation.com

Executive Vice President Mississippi Assn. of Realtors 4247 Lakeland Dr. Jackson, MS 39201 601-932-5241 601-932-0382 wfulton@msrealtors.org

Laura Beth Lyons

Peggy Phillips

Marketing & Special Events Vicksburg Convention & Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 110 Vicksburg, MS 39181 601-883-9956 601-636-9475 laural@vicksburgcvb.org

Mississippi Credit Union Assn. P.O. Box 9575 Jackson, MS 39286 601-981-4552 601-981-4564 pphillips@mscua.com

Philip Chamblee

Executive Director Mississippi Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Stores Association P.O. Drawer 3859 Jackson, MS 39207 601-353-1624 601-353-5561 philip@mpmcsa.comcastbiz.net

Jessica Rawls

Sales Manager Embassy Suites Ridgeland 200 Township Place Ridgeland, MS 39157 601-607-7112 601-607-7116 jessica.rawls@hilton.com

Theresa Wiggins

Resort Sales Manager Wind Creek Resort 303 Poarch Rd Atmore, AL 36502 251-253-2511 251-446-9386 twiggins@pcigaming.com

CONNECTIONS

Pie charts. Spreadsheets. Sales reports. When they â&#x20AC;&#x2122;re presented within the cutting-edge Emerald Coast Conference Center and perused where shimmering green waters meet sugar-white sands, even the most routine paperwork can seem remarkably beautiful. The moments you live for live here.

destin-fwb.com /meetings 22

Destin

Fort Walton Beach

Okaloosa Island

â&#x20AC;˘

1-800-322-3319

Mary Esther Cinco Bayou CONNECTIONS

MSAE 2010 Calendar of Events Board of Director Meetings 1:00 p.m. following Lunch & Learn Lunch & Learn Series: 11:45 a.m. July 21

Capital Club, Jackson

Tuesday’s Cocktails & Conversations Tuesday prior to Lunch & Learn 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Lobby of Jackson Hilton Fitzgerald’s

September 15 Capital Club, Jackson

2010 Joint Conference: September 19-21 Mobile Bay Conference Center November 17 Capital Club, Jackson Holiday Reception: Dec. 15 Location TBA

Index of Advertisers Affiniscape Beau Rivage Creative Marketing Concepts CRI Emerald Coast Convention Center

7 Back Cover 19 Inside Front 22

Gold Strike

Hilton Garden Inn

Jackson Convention Complex

Monmouth Plantations

Natchez CVB

PCH Hotels and Resorts

River Room Conference Center

Tunica Convention & Visitors Bureau

MSAE Thanks These Advertisers for Making This Publication Possible CONNECTIONS

One of the top 25 spas in the country

Tropical poolside overlooking the Gulf Coast

50,000 square feet of flexible meeting space Your budget

Four-diamond restaurants Tom Fazio-designed golfing masterpiece

WHO SAYS YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR? The only thing you’ll love more than this MGM MIRAGE destination is the value it offers.

A Feeling Like No Other.®

Resort • Biloxi, MS , MS R ESORT& Casino & C ASINO • BILOXI

1.800.239.2771 | beaurivage.com