FSAE July/August Source - 2015

FLORIDA SOCIETY OF ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVES 2410 Mahan Drive, Suite 2 Tallahassee, FL 32308-5302 Change Service Requested

PRSRT. STD. U.S. POSTAGE PAID TALLAHASSEE, FL PERMIT NO. 852

Rusty Payon, CAE Jaime Caldwell, ACHE

2015-16 Board Chairs

Protecting Your Organization Be the CEO of Your Life

SOURCE success by association WWW.FSAE.ORG

JULY/AUGUST 2015

SOURCE success by association

JULY/AUG 2015

introducing 2015-16 board chairs

rusty Payton, CAE, MBA and jaime caldwell, ACHE

8

be the ceo of your life

14

protecting your organization

16

from rapidly changing legal landscapes

Special Section

For Members by Members 2015-16 Board Members

12

New Members

18

Buyer’s Guide

30

Why Getting Involved Matters

24

Member News

22

South FL Meetings

32

Recent Event Photos

28

Foundation Investors

38

Reconnect with Conference Attendees

35

Online Auction Recap

29

Upcoming FSAE events August 11

Membership & Communications Roundtable

Madison Social, Tallahassee

August 19

Power Luncheon

August 28-30

ceo retreat

Naples Grande Resort, Naples

September 17

CEO/ Executive Director Roundtable

University Center Club, Tallahassee Sponsored by Visit Central FL

101 Restaurant, Tallahassee Sponsored by Hilton Orlando

August 20

September 23

meeting planner roundtable

Governor’s Club, Tallahassee Sponsored by Discover the Palm Beaches

technology Roundtable

Madison Social, Tallahassee Sponsored by HostedNumbers

September 24

meeting planner Roundtable

Hotel Duval, Tallahassee Sponsored by Hotel Duval

September 24-26

Foundation Think Tank

Hammock Beach Resort, Palm Coast

October 14

Education Expo

FSU Conference Center, Tallahassee Presenting Sponsor: Visit Tampa Bay

November 5

Central FL Power Luncheon

& Joint Board Meetings Mission Inn, Howie in the Hills

September 30

Executive Series Luncheon

Hotel Duval, Tallahassee Sponsored by Experience Kissimmee

www.fsae.org

FSAE Staff

SOURCE

Florida Society of Association Executives 2410 Mahan Drive, Suite 2 Tallahassee, FL 32308-5302

editor Adrian Amos Honderick

Phone: (850) 222-7994 Fax: (850) 222-6350 fsae@fsae.org www.fsae.org

adrian@fsae.org; (850) 702-0946

suedamon1@aol.com; (850) 926-3318

publisher Frank Rudd, CAE, CMP

printer: Rose Printing

frank@fsae.org; (850) 702-0943

President/CEO Frank Rudd, CAE, CMP

frank@fsae.org; (850) 702-0943

Advertising Sales Sue Damon

(800) 227-3725

cover photo provided by copeland productions

Vice President, Membership & Development Hester Ndoja, CAE

hester@fsae.org; (850) 702-0944

Marketing, Communications & Technology Manager Adrian Amos Honderick

adrian@fsae.org; (850) 702-0946

Disclaimer: Articles in this publication are designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with respect to the subject matter covered. It is provided with the understanding that neither FSAE nor the authors are engaged in rendering legal or other professional services.

If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

Education & Events manager Kate Cruikshank, MS

kate@fsae.org; (850) 702-0942

Office Manager Sandy Merrill

sandy@fsae.org; (850) 702-0945

fsae education expo Destination: education October 14, 2015 4 JULY/AUG 2015

www.fsae.org/educationexpo

FSU Conference center Tallahassee

ADD A SANIBEL SUNSET TO YOUR NEXT AGENDA.

With over 12,000 square feet of meeting space, custom catering options and a professional team on hand to take care of every detail, we can ensure that your next meeting won’t just be a breeze but that Sundial will become your destination of choice for group gatherings of any kind.

To book your group call 239.472.4151 or visit sundialresort.com

FROM THE CEO

FSAE IS ON A ROLL!

Frank Rudd, CAE, CMP FSAE President/CEO

We have just finished our Annual Conference at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club and I still feel the energy and enthusiasm from the meeting.

We had great educational programs combined with outstanding social events in the setting of the historic Vinoy and beautiful St. Petersburg. Everything came together to make for an excellent signature event for our association.

Thanks to Rachel Luoma, MS, CAE and Richard Miseyko, CMP, CMM for their leadership as Conference Co-Chairs and for all those who served on our Annual Conference Committee. And yes, it is never too early to start thinking about our 2016 meeting-it will be July 13-15 at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point in Bonita Springs.

While at the Vinoy, FSAE

hit the 1,000 member mark for the first time ever! Our membership has been

on a steady rise these past two years and I hope this is only the beginning of our growth. Please take a minute today to think of someone who could benefit from being a part of their professional society or as an Associate Member who provides a service for associations.

I wanted to give a special thanks to Janegale Boyd, our Immediate Past Chair of FSAE and Deborah Boza-Valledor, CPS, CIPS, Immediate Past Chair of the Foundation. By all metrics, their year has been a resounding success! Their leadership was instrumental in moving FSAE to new heights in participation and programs offered. I know our new leadership of Rusty Payton, CAE, MBA and Jaime Caldwell, ACHE are ready to take the helm and keep FSAE moving forward.

6 JULY/AUG 2015

I am looking forward to the FSAE Education Expo which will be in Tallahassee on October 14th. We will have a full day of educational programs and a chance to meet with key suppliers at the Trade Show. The Education Expo will closely mirror the former TSAE Education Day which was a Tallahassee tradition. I hope you will plan on being a part this event as we start a new tradition that will benefit you and your organization.

2015 Annual Conference Committee

A special thank you to all of the Annual Conference Committee members for their enthusiastic involvement and dedication in ensuring the success of FSAE! Each of these committee members chaired individual committees/task forces that collectively made Annual Conference happen!

Conference Co-Chairs: Rachel Luoma, CAE and Richard Miseyko, CMP, CMM Education Committee Chair: Marsha Kiner, CAE Marketing Sub-Committee Chair: Greg Brooks Sponsorship Sub-Committee Chair: Sue Fern VIP Connection Reception Chair: Kristin Marshall Foundation Auction Committee Co-Chairs: Elaine Carpenter, IOM, CAE and Kimball Mathews At-Large Members: Jason Carroll, CMP; Mary Malone; Gail Siminovsky, CAE

In Between The Big Meetings have some little ones of your own

4 0 , 0 0 0 S Q U A R E F E E T O F F L E X I B L E M E E T I N G S PA C E I N D O O R A N D O U T D O O R U N I Q U E E V E N T S PA C E | 3 6 - H O L E S O F C H A M P I O N S H I P G O L F | M A R I N A M I C H A E L M I N A’ S B O U R B O N S T E A K | C A Ñ A S T E N N I S | C O R S A I R B Y S C O T T C O N A N T W E L L N E S S S PA & F I T N E S S C E N T E R | F U L L S E R V I C E S A L O N LAGUNA POOL & LAZY RIVER

M I D WAY B E T W E E N M I A M I I N T E R N AT I O N A L & F O R T L A U D E R D A L E / H O L LY W O O D I N T E R N AT I O N A L A I R P O R T S

TurnberryIsleMiami.com TO BOO K YO UR M EETING CONTA CT 8 0 0 -6 6 1 -8 1 0 1 OR R F P-TI R @TU R N B E R R Y I SLE M I A M I . COM

a publication of the florida society of association executives

7

CoveR Story

rusty payton, cae, mba fsae chair 2015-2016

As I begin the honor of serving as the FSAE Chair, the term vision comes to mind. No one has ever accused me of being a “Visionary Leader” and I will not change my spots and pretend to impart some great visionary direction for FSAE this next year. In fact, I will assert that FSAE, our membership and our value proposition is growing. We have over 1,000 members and our programming is diverse and meaningful.

So, if all is going as it should, what is a new leader to do?

Get out of momentum’s way! We have a very talented staff and an excellent CEO in Frank Rudd. But, as the volunteer leaders, it is our responsibility to provide direction for our professional staff. We must provide the volunteer leadership to FSAE that we crave from our members in our paying jobs.

To this end, Immediate Past Chair, Janegale Boyd embarked on the process of crafting a strategic plan for FSAE. Not a plan that dramatically changes the organization’s direction, but one that builds on our recent momentum. The input from volunteer leaders established three key areas in which to focus our energies and resources: • Leadership: Provide Leadership and Develop Leaders Across Florida • Resources: Educational Resources and Connecting by Networking • Innovation: Technologies, Online Access and Communications An important thread throughout these key areas is that we must provide a statewide presence and programming.

Though Tallahassee is the focal point of associations in

8 JULY/AUG 2015 8 JULY/AUG 2015

2015-16 FSAE Board of Directors Installation

Florida, FSAE’s growth and impact rests with our ability to recruit organizations in other association hot-spots like Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando, Palm Beach and Miami. This does not mean that we abandon our Tallahassee market, but that we add programming venues. Stay tuned for future announcements and opportunities in these other areas.

For those of you newer to the Association Management Profession, another key element is growing the Young Professional Program. Regardless of which capacity you serve in Association Management, as a new professional FSAE strives to be the resource for your professional development.

The strides taken this year to augment our value proposition will not be taken by me. FSAE not only has a talented staff, but our Board Members and Committee Chairs are some of the brightest and most dedicated in the industry. I look forward to working with the entire team building upon our past momentum.

2015-16 FSAE Committee Chairs Annual Conference: Gail Siminovsky, CAE and Tim Bell Sponsorship Sub-Committee: ________________ Associate Advisory Committee: Mary Malone Education Committee: Adrienne Bryant, CAE Governance Committee: Jaime Caldwell, ACHE Government Affairs Committee: Paul Ledford, CAE Marketing Committee: Mary Malone Membership Committee: Suzanne Neve Young Professionals Task Force: Rachel Luoma, CAE

a publication of the florida society of association executives a publication of the florida society of association executives

9 9

CoveR Story

jaime caldwell, ache foundation chair 2015-2016 In anticipation of writing my first article as the 20152016 FSAE Foundation Chair, I took the time to look back at what my predecessor, Deborah Boza-Valedor, had written over her year in office. I was nervous before and, after reviewing her articles, I was confronted with a real challenge, “how can I possibly continue at her level?”

I am somewhat comforted by the fact that Deborah and I have several things in common: our love for our families and our peers; our friendships we have developed from being part of both FSAE and the Foundation families; and our total support for the mission of the Foundation which is to “support education, research, professional development, publications, and public relations efforts for the association management professional.” Deborah did a wonderful job as Foundation Chair and I know that I will be able to reach out to her for advice and guidance along the way.

When talking about the Foundation, there are others to whom we need to give thanks. First, to our roughly 150

10 JULY/AUG 2015

Foundation donors, “we give you our thanks.” Through your unselfish giving, we are able to improve our educational offerings, provide grant support to members who are trying to better themselves by earning their CAE or CMP credentials as well as attending our annual meeting. And, most recently, your gifts allowed us to provide “seed money” grants to members in support of innovative program initiatives.

And, I would be derelict in my duties if I did not take a few words to celebrate the long standing support of both the Florida Hyatt Hotels and Marriott International Hotels & Resorts for their support of the Foundation’s programs and goals. As Deborah quoted Benjamin Franklin in her preamble to the 2014 Foundation Annual Report, “An investment in knowledge pays the best dividends.”

Clearly, the return on investment in terms of both a better educated workforce and a better educated consuming public benefits all parties.

2015-16 FSAE Foundation Trustee Installation

Gifts given to the Foundation, regardless of size (please consider a donation at any time of the year or as part of your membership renewal process) benefit all of us. I recently attended a graduation at a local high school and as part of the ceremony one of the speakers cited a quotation from Mother Teresa that said, “If you can’t feed 100 people, feed just one.” I got thinking about that as the 300 or so young adults paraded across the stage to accept congratulations and their high school diplomas…to feed one person. If our organization accepted the responsibility to “feed one person,” what might we be able to do? If all of our members decided to contribute, regardless of the size of their contribution, what programs could we support and how many grants could we give to support new initiatives and personal growth? We are the proverbial community of man, all in search of knowledge, of truth…. “to feed just one.”

2015-16 Foundation Committee Chairs Grant Committee Co-Chairs: Marina Mitusova, CMP and Chip Minick Auction Co-Chairs: Crissy Tallman, CMP, CAE and Meg Caldwell, CMP

This is going to be a great year!

a publication of the florida society of association executives

11

FSAE 2015-16 Board of Directors officers

Chair: Rusty Payton, CAE, MBA Chair Elect: Al Pasini, CAE Chief Operating Officer CEO LeadingAge Florida FL Home Builders Assn

Treasurer: Rachel Luoma, CAE Secretary: Marsha Kiner, CAE Chief Staff Executive/ViceAssociate Executive Director President, Partners in Assn Assn of FL Colleges Management, Inc.

Immediate Past Chair: Janegale Boyd President & CEO US Iberian Swine Assn

at-large directors

Gregory Brooks Executive Director/President AMC Source

Adrienne Bryant, CAE Member Information & Database Manager, Assn of FL Colleges

Lisa Chamberlain, CMP Associate At-Large Director National Sales Manager Visit Tampa Bay

Keyna Cory Executive Director FL Recycling Partnership

Letreze Gooding, CMP Director of Education & Events FL Assn of Counties

Darin Henry Associate At-Large Director Senior Sales Manager Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa

Vicki Long, CAE EVP, FL Assn of the Am Institute of Architects

Deidra (Dee) Kring, CMP, CAE Director of Continuing Education, FL Engineering Society

Lonny Powell CEO & EVP, FL Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Assn

Gail Siminovsky, CAE Executive Director Academy of Laser Dentistry

Foundation Chair

Ex-officio

Jaime Caldwell, ACHE VP, South FL Hospital & Healthcare Assn

Frank Rudd, CMP, CAE President/CEO, FSAE

12 JULY/AUG 2015 12 JULY/AUG 2015

Foundation 2015-16 Board of Trustees officers

Chair: Jaime Caldwell, ACHE Vice President, SFL Hospital & Healthcare Assn

Chair-Elect: Donna Son EVP of Operations and CFO FL Institute of CPAs

Treasurer: Carolyn Fazio, ECAM Sr. Strategist / CEO Fazio International, Ltd

Immediate Past Chair: Deborah Boza-Valledor, CIPS, CRB, CRS COO & Chief Marketing Officer Miami Assn of Realtors

at-large TRUSTEES

Meg Caldwell, CMP Sales Manager, Grand Hotel Marriott Resort Golf Club & Spa

Pam Fields, CHME National Sales Manager Sundial Beach Resort & Spa

Fran Gilbert, CAE Executive Director FL School Nutrition Assn

Ex-officio

fsae Chair:

Frank Rudd, CMP, CAE President/CEO, FSAE

Rusty Payton, CAE, MBA CEO, FL Home Builders Assn

STAFF LIAiSON Hester Ndoja, CAE Vice President, Membership & Development, FSAE

a publication of the florida society of association executives a publication of the florida society of association executives

13 13

Feature Story

Be the CEO of Your Life By tom morrison

Working in the world of associations is such a fulfilling and rewarding opportunity. We get to live out our passion for helping people, while watching our efforts having a dramatic impact on life, business, and industry.

However, sometimes it becomes more like a job than a passion, and we begin to feel burnt out with all the demands that can come from serving people. I remember hearing a speaker say, “We aren’t burnt out because we are over-worked. We are burnt out because we have forgotten why we do what we do.” That was so profound to me that I began to look internally at myself. The person was right… you can not give what you do not have.

In the world of non-profit work, we need to have passion and purpose in our own lives so we are able to give passion and purpose to our members. However, with our personal lives as busy as our work life, it can be a real challenge. In those moments when you think your circumstances are at their worst, remember…things are never as bad as they

14 JULY/AUG 2015

seem and you have more control of your circumstances than you think. It is at these moments that you need to become the CEO of your own life and take control.

As I listen, study, and look into the lives of the thousands of people I meet every year, I’ve learned that each one of us has an ideal “quality of life” that we would like to be living. It’s a quality of life that brings fulfillment, passion, joy, love, rewards, and low-stress. For most, when they look at where that ideal quality of life is, and the actual life they are experiencing, there is a gap. For some the gap is small, but for many the gap is huge.

Many people are waiting on life to happen: Waiting on enough spare time to begin to enjoy life. Waiting on enough business to seize opportunities in the market.

Waiting on enough money to have a child. Waiting on the market to change to buy a house. Waiting on the ideal life partner to make you feel loved. Waiting on retirement to start experiencing your bucket list. Waiting, waiting, waiting... Waiting for WHAT? One day you wake up and you’ve lost 20 years of your life waiting in the rut of work, kids growing up, and life just happening. Your soul feels lost, your heart passionless, and your energy is on empty.

It’s time to stop waiting.

One thing I’ve learned is that life doesn’t happen to you, life is what you make a choice to do, and what opportunities you seize when they come your way. Everyday people have opportunities dropped in their lap, yet they choose NOT to seize the moment and take advantage of them. A great quality of life doesn’t just come to you. YOU make it happen.

“Life doesn’t happen to you. Life is what you make a choice to do, and what opportunities you seize. A great quality of life doesn’t just come to you. YOU make it happen.”

To achieve your ideal quality of life, there are four essential areas that you must have a plan for. Your plan can’t be some “I’ll wing it” type plan, but a plan that is well thought out. For each area, you need to identify what you want, the threats to making it happen, and the steps you need to achieve your goals.

The four areas of life to plan for are: • Career • Relationships • Financial • Physical Health These four areas drive everything in your life from family, professional development to retirement. If one of these areas is lacking, it will have a negative impact on your ability to achieve the quality of life you want.

Where Your Meetings

And Dreams Collide Meet & Connect in The Palm Beaches The Palm Beaches are more than legendary hospitality, world-class resorts and beautiful beaches.

Here, you can also expect thriving culture, shopping, countless golf courses, and an abundance of outdoor activities. To top it off, our Downtown Convention District will feature the spacious 350,000-square-foot Palm Beach County Convention Center, connected to the brand new 400-room Hilton West Palm Beach in early 2016.

To start planning your event today, visit PalmBeachFL.com/INCENTIVE or call 877.722.2821

To help you achieve maximum success in these four areas, I’ve developed what I call The Path to the Ultimate Life visual.

The Path to the Ultimate Life has four blocks that I call “Pillars,” and four words that I call “Characteristics.”

The four Pillars are the forces that have the most impact on the key areas on your life mentioned earlier. They are: • Choices (How you make them) • Money (How you spend it) • Time (How you invest it) • People (Who you surround yourself with) CALCULATE YOUR REBATE at: PalmBeachFL.com/ INCENTIVE Continued Page 25

Discover The Palm Beaches, Sales Agent for Meetings & Conventions in Palm Beach County The Best Way to Meet in Florida

DPBC-FSAE-halfpage-island.indd a publication of the 1florida

society of association executives

15

6/18/15 3:38 PM

Feature Story

Protecting Your Organization in a Rapidly Changing Legal Landscape

While leadership change can affect many facets of an organization, legal changes from a variety of sources also affect the way that organizations do business every day. Keeping abreast of the changes affecting your workforce can be challenging and

By Jeffrey D. Slanker complicated. This article explains some recent changes with an eye towards explicating where legal changes come from, why it is important to stay on top of such changes, and what can happen if your organization does things the “old way.�

Legislative Change

Legislative changes in the form of new statutes enacted by the state legislature or by the United States Congress can be a source of wide-reaching change. For example, the Florida Legislature recently passed a bill that recognized that the Florida Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of pregnancy. While the United States Congress has been less active in passing labor and employment related statutes, some statutes which were enacted in prior years are just now beginning to come into

16 JULY/AUG 2015

effect or work their ways through the court system.

This is evident in the slow roll-out of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The sweeping law staggered the occurrence of certain events over the course of a number of years, and some of those obligations are starting to take effect. Past editions of Source Magazine have explained some of these obligations, notably the employer responsibility provisions of the ACA which require certain employers to provide their employees healthcare insurance or pay a penalty to the government, and non-discrimination provisions which prevent favoring highly-compensated employees in healthcare insurance benefits or in determining eligibility for such benefits.

Further, some laws are just now working their way through the legal system providing guidance to employers with respect to how courts will interpret and apply these laws. Such laws include the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008. The first case alleging a violation of GINA was brought to trial just recently, and the plaintiff-employees won a jury verdict of over two million dollars. GINA forbids employers from requesting, requiring, or purchasing genetic information of an employee. The case concerned an Atlanta-area warehouse that requested cheek swabs of two employees for DNA testing after it discovered that someone was defecating in its warehouse. The employees were not the

OPENING EARLY 2016

RELA XED • 342 guest rooms and 10 one-bedroom suites • 16 meeting rooms and over 18,000 square feet of event space • 750 square-foot outdoor courtyard, ideal for themed private events or a cocktail reception

REFINED True South Florida charm and contemporary function space meet in the heart of West Palm Beach.

Let the innovative spaces

• 400 spacious guest rooms and 25 suites • 24,000 square feet of flexible event space that accommodates over 800 people • Connected to the Palm Beach County Convention Center

of the West Palm Beach Marriott and the Hilton West Palm Beach make your event larger than life.

1001 Okeechobee Blvd West Palm Beach, FL 33401 561.833.1234 WestPalmBeachMarriott.com

BOOK WITH US TODAY. © 2015 Marriott International, Inc.

culprits and brought suit against their employer under GINA. The jury found the company liable under GINA in a hefty verdict.

Administrative Changes

While the United States Congress has not been terribly active recently in labor and employment matters, there has been a multitude of change on the administrative or executive level. These changes come in the form of presidential executive actions, rules released by executive agencies and administrative bodies, and rulings of quasijudicial administrative and executive level agencies which affect the way organizations do business.

Perhaps no administrative body has been more active, and has taken more drastic changes in recent years than the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). The NLRB regulates collective bargaining and union issues in private employment. Just one example of the NLRB’s recent significant changes involved its decision in Purple Communications, Inc., which overturned prior precedent concerning permissible employee use of company email.

The NLRB previously held that employers could prohibit employees from using company email systems to engage in union organizing activities, but the NLRB’s decision in Purple Communications reverses that precedent.

600 Okeechobee Blvd West Palm Beach, FL 33401 678.300.8908 HiltonWestPalmBeach.com

Similarly, change can come from the formal rule-making powers of Administrative Agencies. For example, rumblings have increased that the Department of Labor will revise the rules and regulations governing the minimum amount of money an employee must earn to be exempt from overtime laws and the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has just released a new rule providing guidance to employers for complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act in the administration of wellness programs.

Finally, change on the administrative level does not even have to come in the form of an official decision or issuance of an executive order or administrative rule, but rather can come from changes in the priorities, emphasis, or manner that executive agencies enforce statutes. A perfect example of this are the enforcement initiatives of the EEOC and the EEOC’s expanded efforts to hold employers liable for discrimination against individuals on the basis of their gender identify, transition, or transgender status. Such categories are not actually explicitly protected under federal civil rights laws; however the EEOC has been pursuing these claims under the umbrella of sex discrimination, which is protected.

Continued Page 27

a publication of the florida society of association executives

17

fsae members

Executive Members: Lisa Bacot Executive Director FL Public Transportation Assn P.O. Box 10168 Tallahassee, FL 32302 Phone: (850) 878-0855 www.floridatransit.org John Bechtold Marketing Manager BICSI: A Telecommunications Assn 8610 Hidden River Pkwy.

Tampa, FL 33637 Phone: (813) 769-1848 www.bicsi.org John Brazzell Director of Business Development & Membership FL Justice Assn 218 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 224-9403 floridajusticeassociation.org Wesley Costa Director of Marketing and Education Life Insurance Settlement Assn 225 S. Eola Dr. Orlando, FL 32801 Phone: (407) 894-3797 Keith Dean, CPA Executive Director FL Deputy Sheriffs Assn 2029 Laurel St. Tallahassee, FL 32303 Phone: (850) 980-3745 www.fldeputysheriffs.org Debra DeSmidt Education Coordinator GMS Group 19031 N Dale Mabry Hwy Lutz, FL 33548

18 JUL/AUG JULY/AUG2015 2015

Welcome New Members!

Jennifer Doerfel EVP Tampa Bay Builders Assn 512 East Kennedy Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33602 Phone: (813) 571-8222 www.tbba.net Marlene Erven President NFP Solutions 2829 Bird Ave. Ste. 5-283 Miami, FL 33122 Phone: (800) 521-3025 www.NFPsolutions-now.com Connie Galietti, JD Director, Legal & Professional Affairs, Practice Directorate Am Psychological Assn 8909 Bordeaux St. Alexandria, VA 22309 Phone: (202) 336-5886 www.apa.org Suzanne Giacchino Director - Operations, Administration & Events Fern Management Services 5123 Kernwood Ct., Ste. 100 Palm Harbor, FL 34685 Phone: (727) 942-4503 www.fernmanagement.com Debra Henley Executive Director FL Justice Assn 218 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32303 Phone: (850) 224-9403 floridajusticeassociation.org Garnie Holmes Director of Communications & Marketing FL Municipal Electric Assn, Inc. 417 East College Ave. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 224-3314 www.publicpower.com

Karen Howe Director of Member Services Intrinxec Management Inc. 2976 Compton Ct. Tallahassee, FL 32309 Phone: (850) 656-8848 www.intrinxec.com Sharon Hoydich Director of Professional Development Florida Realtors 7025 Augusta National Dr. Orlando, FL 32822 Phone: (407) 438-1400 www.floridarealtors.org Pati Jackson Director of Conferences and Education FL Home Builders Assn 2600 Centennial Pl. Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 402-1832 www.fhba.com David Kanagy Executive Director Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration 12999 E. Adam Aircraft Cir. Englewood, CO 80112 Phone: (239) 228-3817 www.smenet.org Kathleen Kerry Membership Coordinator National Poultry & Food Distributors Assn 2014 Osborne Rd. Saint Marys, GA 31558 Phone: (770) 535-9901 www.npfda.org Louise Koonce VP of Operations NFP Solutions 2829 Bird Ave., Ste. 5-283 Miami, FL 33122 Phone: (305) 216-0626 www.NFPsolutions-now.com

Patrick La Pine President/CEO League of Southeastern Credit Unions 3692 Coolidge Ct. Tallahassee, FL 32311 Phone: (850) 558-1060 www.lscu.coop Jessica Lowe-Minor Executive Director Institute for Nonprofit Innovation and Excellence 300 W. Pensacola St. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 201-9766 www.tcc.fl.edu Cathi Lundgren, CAE Global Account Executive HPN Global - A Global Meeting Services Company 3417 Castlebar Cir. Tallahassee, FL 32309 Phone: (850) 297-0614 www.hpnglobal.com Dawn Mages, CAE Executive Director AIA Tampa Bay 200 N. Tampa St., Ste. 100 Tampa, FL 33602 Phone: (813) 229-3411 www.aiatampabay.com Diane Major CPE Conference Manager FL Institute of CPAs 325 W. College Ave. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 224-2727 www.ficpa.org Jaime Nolan, CAE CEO Intrinxec Management Inc. 5353 Wayzata Blvd., Ste. 350 Minneapolis, MN 55416 Phone: (952) 252-3573 www.intrinxec.com

Alecia Schneider Executive Vice President FL Society of Enrolled Agents P.O. Box 882084 Port St Lucie, FL 34988 Phone: (855) 374-3732 www.fseaonline.org Kimberly Scott CFO/COO FL Home Builders Assn 2600 Centennial Pl. Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 402-1850 www.fhba.com Michael Sheedy Executive Director FL Catholic Conference 201 W. Park Ave. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 205-6824 www.flaccb.org Christy Shell Event Coordinator FL Institute of Government at FSU 8611 Milford Ct. Tallahassee, FL 32312 Phone: (850) 487-1870 www.iog.fsu.edu Marjorie Stone Corporate Relations and Events Manager FL Restaurant & Lodging Assn 230 S Adams St. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 224-2250 www.frla.org Patrick Vinzant Business & Operations Manager FL Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Assn 801 S.W. 60th Ave. Ocala, FL 34474 Phone: (352) 629-2160 www.ftboa.com

Debbie Wysocki President FL Assn Management Strategies, Inc. 311 E Park Ave. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 339-5366 Mary Jean Yon Executive Director Keep Florida Beautiful 3324 Charleston Rd. Tallahassee, FL 32309 Phone: (850) 519-7859 www.keepfloridabeautiful.org

Associate Members Josie Azar Senior Sales Manager Trump National Doral 4400 N.W. 87th Ave. Doral, FL 33178 Phone: (305) 591-6476 www.doralresort.com Donna Brandt Event Sales Manager Universal Orlando 1000 Universal Studios Plaza Orlando, FL 32819 Phone: (407) 224-6206 www.universalorlando.com Jennine Brown Director of Sales Holiday Inn Select 2001 N. MLK - Cove Blvd.

Panama City Beach, FL 32405 Phone: (850) 814-7830 www.hipcbeach.com Timothy Buckley Convention Sales Manager Ocean Center 101 N. Atlantic Ave. Daytona Beach, FL 32118 Phone: (386) 254-4500 www.oceancenter.com

Camile Burlison Sales Manager St. Joe Club & Resorts 1701 E. County Hwy 30A, Ste. 201 Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459 Phone: (850) 231-7164 www.stjoeclub.com

Linda Dennis Corporate Director of Sales Baystar Hotel Group - Hotel Indigo 234 3rd St. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33701 Phone: (727) 822-4814 www.hotelindigo.com

Kristen Goodnow Senior National Sales Manager Sanibel Harbour Marriott Resort & Spa 17260 Harbour Pointe Dr. Fort Myers, FL 33908 Phone: (239) 466-4000 www.sanibelmarriott.com

Matt Johnson Senior Director, Regional Sales Connect Florida 15 Technology Pkwy. S., Ste. 250 Norcross, GA 30092 Phone: (678) 987-9925 www.collinsonmedia.com

Sasha Caro Sales Manager Hilton University of FL Conference Center 1714 S.W. 34th St. Gainesville, FL 32607 Phone: (352) 384-3414 www.hiltongainesvilleuf.com

Nikki DeSantis, CMP Account Director, Group Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd.

Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 Phone: (407) 934-4544 swandolphinmeetings.com

Gregg Heggeland Regional Sales Manager Weblink International, Inc. 3905 W. Vincennes Rd., Ste. 210 Indianapolis, IN 46268 Phone: (317) 872-3909 www.weblinkinternational.com

Jeremy Cohen Business Development Target Copy 635 W. Tennessee St. Tallahassee, FL 32304 Phone: (850) 224-3007 www.targetcopy.com

Sharon Fekete Founder/CEO The Doctor Whisperer 135 Kilgore Dr. Largo, FL 33770 Phone: (727) 420-2481 www.thedoctorwhisperer.com

Christine Legris Sales Manager Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach 999 N. Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale, FL, FL 33304 Phone: (954) 315-1460 www.sonesta.com/ fortlauderdale

Darlene Davis-Hord Director of Group Accounts JW Marriott Marquis Miami 255 Biscayne Blvd.

Miami, FL 33131 Phone: (305) 421-8608 jwmarriottmarquismiami.com

Liz Foreman Director of Operations CMC & Associates 2713 Blairstone Ln. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 224-7775 www.cmc-associates.com

Len DellaRocco Broker / Owner Space Coast Benefits 3241 Kent Dr. Melbourne, FL 32935 Phone: (321) 292-5575 www.spacecoastbenefits.com

Kristen Francis Connect Florida 15 Technology Dr., Ste. 250 Norcross, GA 30092 Phone: (678) 987-9909 www.collinsonmedia.com

Graham Demont Vice President Demont Insurance Agency Inc. 2400 Mahan Dr. Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 942-7760 www.demontinsurance.com

Mark Galvin Director, Regional Sales Connect Florida 15 Technology Pkwy, Ste. 250 Norcross, GA 30092 Phone: (678) 987-9922 www.collinsonmedia.com

Chef Jeff Henderson Chef Jeff Speaks P.O. Box 1831 Tallahassee, FL 32302 Phone: (850) 556-9669 Lisa Herbach-Oorbeek Destination Sales Executive Marriott West Palm Beach 1001 Okeechobee Blvd.

West Plalm Beach, FL 33401 Phone: (561) 803-1928 www.marriott.com Ana Isaza Sales Manager Hilton Miami Airport 5101 Blue Lagoon Dr. Miami, FL 33126 Phone: (305) 265-3859 www.hilton.com Maxine Jemison National Sales Manager Eden Roc Renaissance Miami Beach 7561 Black Olive Way Tamarac, FL 33321 Phone: (305) 674-5518

Michelle Lepore Senior Sales Manager Tideline Ocean Resort and Spa Palm Beach 2842 S. Ocean Blvd.

Palm Beach, FL 33480 Phone: (561) 540-6449 www.tidelineresort.com Felice Levy Owner Gulfcoast Meetings and Events P.O. Box 1200 Palm Harbor, FL 34682 Phone: (727) 638-8121 Nazene Lyttle Sales Manager DoubleTree by Hilton Miami Airport Convention Center 711 N.W. 72nd Ave. Miami, FL 33126 Phone: (305) 260-8958 www.doubletreemacc.com

Welcome to Your Professional Association a publication of the florida society of association executives

19

Connie Miller Director of Sales Holiday Inn Resort 11127 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Phone: (850) 230-4046 www.hipcbeach.com

Lynnette Parkhill-Wuebben Senior Sales Executive Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa 1000 PGA Tour Blvd.

Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Phone: (954) 734-3748 www.marriott.com

Jonathan Noyes Group Sales Manager Plantation on Crystal River 9301 W. Fort Island Trail Crystal River, FL 34429 Phone: (352) 795-1605 www.plantationoncrystalriver.com

Cassidy Puttick Martinez Senior Sales Manager Mayfair Hotel and Spa 3000 Florida Ave. Miami, FL 33133 Phone: (305) 779-4534 www.mayfairhotelandspa.com

Kevin Oreggio, CHSE Director of Global Sales Wyndham Hotel Group 22 Sylvan Way Parsippany, NJ 07054 Phone: (470) 253-8374

Mykole Santiago Sales Executive Miami Airport Marriott 115 S.W. 11th St., Apt. 501 Miami, FL 33130 Phone: (305) 649-5000

Angela O’Reilly Pres. & CEO SelectSource 300 Primera Blvd., Ste. 140 Sanford, FL 32746 Phone: (407) 515-2462 www.selectsourceone.com

Larry Short Manager in Training Enterprise Rent A Car 1485 Blountstown St. Tallahassee, FL 32304 Phone: (413) 801-8107

Lisa Parker Sales Assistant Lakeland Center 701 W. Lime St. Lakeland, FL 33815 Phone: (863) 834-6116 www.lakelandcenter.com

Bill Sittig, CPA Managing Director Bill Sittig CPA LLC 1695-7 Metropolitan Cir. Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 386-2639 www.TallahasseeAccountant.NET

Craig Smith Associate Director of Sales and Marketing Embassy Suites Orlando - Lake Buena Vista 8100 Lake St. Orlando, FL 32836 Phone: (407) 597-5120 www.embassysuiteslbv.com Janet Stevens Sr. Sales Manager Mission Inn Resort & Club 10400 County Rd. 48 Howey-in-the-Hills, FL 34737 Phone: (352) 324-2024 www.missioninnresort.com Warren Sumner Business Development Officer First Commerce Credit Union P.O. Box 6416 Tallahassee, FL 32314 Phone: (850) 410-3541 www.firstcommercecu.org Joyce Turner Sales Manager Embassy Suites Tampa USF/Busch Gardens 3705 Spectrum Blvd.

Tampa, FL 33612 Phone: (813) 903-6625 www.embassysuitesusf.com Desiree’ Ugosmith Regional Sales Manager Weblink International, Inc. 3905 W. Vincennes Rd., Ste. 210 Indianapolis, IN 46268 Phone: (317) 872-3909 www.weblinkinternational.com

Robert Vice Market President Ameris Bank 150 S. Monroe St. Tallahassee, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 745-7333 www.amerisbank.com Michael Votta Show Director Connect Florida 15 Technology Dr., Ste. 250 Norcross, GA 30092 Phone: (678) 987-9984 www.collinsonmedia.com William Wohlsifer Chairman NationalHemp.Org 1100 E. Park Ave. Suite B, FL 32301 Phone: (850) 219-8888 www.nationalhemp.org Victoria Wyatt Director of Sales Emerald Grande at HarborWalk Village 10 Harbor Blvd.

Destin, FL 32541 Phone: (850) 424-0635 Bill Zarbock Director of Group Sales Radisson Resort Orlando Celebration 2900 Parkway Blvd.

Kissimmee, FL 34747 Phone: (407) 396-7000 www.radissonorlandoresort.com

1,000 members strong! ~and growing~

20 JUL/AUG 2015

Thank You Conference Sponsors Platinum

Gold

silver

bronze

TM

sponsors

Partners

www.fsae.org/annualConference a publication of the florida society of association executives

21

fsae members

Executive Member News

Congratulations to FSAEs 1,000 Member: th

Debra Henley, Executive Director of the FL Justice Association

Steve Bahmer Named President and CEO of LeadingAge Florida

The LeadingAge Florida Board of Trustees announced in May that Stephen D. Bahmer was selected as CEO after conducting a national search. Steve comes to Tallahassee after serving as CEO of LeadingAge Wyoming. He said he sees his new role as an opportunity to continue serving and helping to strengthen the organizations that serve our elderly.

Congratulations Steve! Welcome to Florida and to FSAE!

Cheval Breggins, MBA Named DELP Scholar

FSAE’s Mr. Cheval Breggins, MBA, Executive Director, Florida Psychological Association was named as one of 12 scholars selected for ASAEs Diversity Executive Leadership Program (DELP) class of 2015–2017.

Congratulations Cheval!

Partners in Association Management Makes Top 100 Best Companies List Partners in Association Management, an accredited association management company, was recently named one of Florida’s “Best Companies To Work For.” The company has made the list four of the last five years. The annual Best Companies list is featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine.

FSAE Past Chair Dr. H. Larry Gore passed away on January 16th of this year. A veterinarian, Dr. Gore was FSAE Chair in 1989 and head of Florida Veterinary Medical Association.

22 JULY/AUG 2015

Congratulations to FSAEs New CAEs: Marsha Kiner and Louise Lobinske

Two FSAE members recently earned their Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential from the CAE Commission of ASAE. Marsha Kiner, MS, CAE, Associate Executive Director, Association of Florida Colleges, Tallahassee, FL Louise Lobinske, QAS, CAE, Administrative Assistant, Cardinal Staffing Services, Tallahassee, FL Congratulations Marsha and Louise!

Congratulations to our new CMPs: Julie Dross and Laura Knoll

The Convention Industry Council (CIC) announced new Certified Meeting Planners, the distinguished credential that demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of meeting management and commitment to the profession.

Julie Dross, CMP, Sr. Director of Meetings and Conventions, Kautter Wenhold Management Group Laura Knoll, CMP, Conference Coordinator, Association for Institutional Research Congratulations Julie & Laura!

Congratulations Jillian Heddaeus, CMP, IOM

Jillian Heddaeus, CMP a Chief Staff Executive with Partners in Association Management recently graduated from the Institute for Organization Management, U.S. Chamber program at the University of Georgia.

Congratulations Jillian!

Member to Member Business has generated:

$10,643,958 134 Transactions Reported from January 1, 2014 - July 15, 2015 www.fsae.org/buyFSAE

Associate Member News Vanessa Zigich Named to DMAI’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2015

Vanessa Zigich, Meeting and Group Sales Manager of Visit Sarasota County was accepted into the Destination Marketing Association International’s (DMAI) 30 under 30 program.

Investing in the future generation of destination experts, 30 individuals, 30 years of age and under, gain valuable industry networking opportunities and increased thought leadership throughout the year.

Congratulations to Elizabeth Baranik, CMP, on her new role as

the National Account Manager for Experient - A Maritz Travel Company.

Experient, a global meeting planning and event management company, leads the industry as one of the best-known and most respected brands in the world.

Elizabeth brings her experience working with associations in the meeting/events industry to perfect the event experience for her clients.

Stefanie Curll Elected Vice President of Membership for Capital City Toastmasters

Stefanie Curll, MBA, CMP, Industry Relations Representative for VISIT FLORIDA, was recently elected as the Vice President of Membership for Capital City Toastmasters. If you’re interested in becoming a better communicator or conquering your fear of public speaking, she invites you to stop by the Chili’s on Apalachee Parkway where the group meets every Thursday from noon to 1 pm.

Buy FSAE. It Matters!

Prize Winner:

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club Recognized

By Smart Meetings Magazine As One Of North America’s Top 3 “Best Beach Hotels”

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club in Southwest Florida has received another prestigious honor, as it was voted one of the Top 3 “Best Beach Hotels” in North America by the readers of Smart Meetings magazine. The magazine’s readers consist of meeting professionals, association executives and incentive specialists that coordinate meetings, conventions and incentive programs for groups.

First Commerce Credit Union’s Six Pillars recognized as one of nation’s Top Financial Advisors by LPL Financial Jeffrey W. Askins, CFP®, an LPL Financial-affiliated advisor at Six Pillars Financial Advisors, has been recognized as a top financial advisor and named to LPL’s Director’s Club. This distinction is based on where the advisor’s annual production ranks among LPL’s approximately 14,000 registered nationwide advisors. Six Pillars is a wholly-owned subsidiary of First Commerce Credit Union. LPL Financial, a wholly owned subsidiary of LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq:LPLA), is a leader in the financial advice market and the nation’s largest independent broker-dealer since 1996 (based on total revenues, Financial Planning magazine, June 1996-2014).

Carolyn Fazio, ECAM Carolyn won $500 from Cheryl James and Hilton Worldwide! a publication of the florida society of association executives

23

for members

By Members

Do More Than Show Up: Why Getting Involved Matters I vividly remember walking into my first FSAE Annual Conference at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in 2012. One of the first people I met in the lobby was Lance Lozano, who was

By Mary Malone with my Tampa counterpart AAC 2015-16 CHAIR Lisa Chamberlain. They both swiftly took me under their wings and introduced me to everyone at Conference from hoteliers to Executive Directors and CEOs. I remember being so intimidated and nervous at first, but quickly realized how much of a family environment FSAE fosters.

By the end of the Conference I had made friends and connections that catapulted my career and time spent at FSAE to a whole new level. Fast forward three years and I’m now chairing the Associate Advisory Committee and the Marketing Committee and received a Foundation Grant to get my CMP. It makes a huge difference when you’re a part of an evolution instead of just rolling along with one. Not only are you building and shaping new ideas for FSAE and its future, but you’re also expanding your horizons by learning from your peers and developing relationships and friendships.

Awareness: I’m a millennial, so I want to be the first to know about everything at every moment of every day!

With regards to involvement and being aware in FSAE it goes much deeper than that. Understanding and comprehending the needs and goals of FSAE with leaders and experts is what helps to keep our organization strong and successful for years to come.

24 JULY/AUG 2015

Keep your skills sharp: No matter your job, you are most likely not utilizing all of your abilities and skills you enjoy. Everyone brings something different to the table. I loved marketing in college but didn’t pursue it as a career, so when the Call for Volunteers came out for the FSAE Marketing Committee I jumped at the opportunity. This year will be my third on the Committee and it allows me to think outside the box and take part in things I enjoy doing.

Committee volunteering is also a fantastic way to surround yourself with like-minded people and learn new skillsets from other experts in the field.

Inclusion: Having friendships and connections in FSAE brings a whole new twist of culture and belonging to your experience. FSAE Annual Conference feels like a family reunion to me every year, and my family keeps growing the more I get involved. The ROI for growth and building a personal brand through a network is invaluable to your experience and to your career.

Communication: Volunteering will allow you to learn how to effectively interact with all different types of people and make you much more confident. The first time I got on a committee conference call I remember being very hesitant and shy. What am I supposed to say? What if I say the wrong thing? What if I ask a stupid question? I listened for a few minutes and realized it wasn’t intimidating at all! The best way to achieve a goal is to communicate with others who share that same goal. Being able to listen and respect everyone’s ideas to reach an objective is a life skill that cannot be learned on your own.

As the old saying goes, you get out of something what you put into it, and that definitely holds true for FSAE. I hope that everyone takes a moment this year to join a committee or volunteer to help in some facet of FSAE - even the small things help in a huge way! You will not be disappointed!

Be the CEO, Continued

tom morrison

The Characteristics are what you must have to achieve excellence and the quality of life you deserve. Those are: • Attitude (It must be positive and good) • Ability to Adapt (You must embrace change) • Communication (A skill set you need to master) • Perseverance (Nothing worth having is easy. Never give up) If your life is not going the way you want or if you are not getting the fulfillment out of life you want, then one or more of the four Pillars are out of alignment, or you lack the skills in one or more of the four Characteristics.

The questions for you to ask yourself are: • How big of a gap do you have between the quality of life that you want, and the actual quality of life that you are experiencing?

• What Pillars are out of alignment, and what Characteristics do you need to work on to make changes and close your quality of life gap?

• What steps do you need to take to make it happen?

Life is short. The time to start living your passion and purpose is now. Everyone from your family, friends, coworkers, and members will see a difference in you as you begin to live the quality of life you desire. Work on the four Pillars and four Characteristics, and bring them all in alignment with your quality of life goal.

Good luck in your journey to living the ultimate life!

Learn more in Tom’s new book with a special $15 price for FSAE members! www.screamyournamebook.com

Tom Morrison is an author, speaker, blogger, and association CEO. Tom is a 20-year veteran of the association industry and through his passion for people and being a student of life, is called by his friends and colleagues, the consummate life coach. In July 2015, Tom launches his new book, “How to Get People to Scream Your Name and Beg For More.” a publication of the florida society of association executives

25

2015 Annual Conference Marketplace Thank our 2015 Sponsors by supporting those that support FSAE

PLATINUM

Ali Collins 727.894.1000 www.marriott.com/tpasr

Sara Melvin 727.464.7200 www.visitspc.org

Conference Host Property

Conference Host Destination

Gold

Lisa Chamberlain, CMP 813.226.0293 www.visitTampaBay.com

Kimball Mathews 800.237.6444 fortmyers-sanibel.com

Thursday Lunch Sponsor

Friday Lunch Sponsor & 2015 Host

Silver

850.488.5607 www.visitFlorida.org

352.333.3358 naylor.com

727.827.0046 yourMembership.com

Thursday Breakfast Sponsor

Friday Breakfast Sponsor

Thursday Break Sponsor & Breakout Room Sponsor

www.fsae.org/annualConference All Conference Sponsors listed online and on page 21

26 JULY/AUG 2015

protecting your organization, Continued Judicial Change

Finally, change can, of course, come from the courts in terms of altering the manner in which laws and rules passed by the other branches of government are interpreted. For example, on the state level, the Florida Supreme Court has recently recognized that discrimination on the basis of pregnancy is prohibited under the Florida Civil Rights Act. There have also been many notable decisions of the Supreme Court during this last term that will affect the way that companies around the country do business.

jeffrey slanker

Organizational Takeaway

In an increasingly regulated world, the “old” way of doing something or the defense of “we have always done it this way” might not cut the mustard. In a rapidly changing legal landscape, provisions in employee handbooks, policies, procedures, and employment decisions must be constantly assessed and re-assed to insure that they are in compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. If not, organizations might unwittingly expose themselves to unnecessary risk in an ever-changing world.

• The Affordable Care Act – The Supreme Court recently upheld a piece of the ACA in King v. Burwell, a statute 1/2 page Island_Layout 1 which radically changed the administration of health care benefits in the county.

• Same-Sex Marriage – After tumult in the lower courts and varying degrees of recognition in states across the County, the Supreme Court recognized in Obergefell v. Hodges, that the right of same-sex couples to marry was constitutionally protected.

This decision has implications for the administration of employee benefits conditioned on marriage as an eligibility factor.

• Pregnancy Discrimination under Title VII –The U.S. Supreme Court also issued a landmark decision interpreting the Pregnancy Discrimination Act which amended federal civil rights laws to prohibit discrimination on the basis of pregnancy. The case, Young v. UPS, held that pregnant employees or employees that can become pregnant, that are denied accommodations for their pregnancy could have a viable claim of discrimination against their employers depending on the circumstances.

Jeffrey D. Slanker of Sniffen & Spellman, P.A., practices in the areas of labor and employment law, civil rights defense, local government law, administrative law, and appellate advocacy. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Central Florida and his law degree from Emory University. He may be reached at jslanker@sniffenlaw.com or (850) 205-1996.

5/5/15 11:43 AM Page 1

W HEN C ASUAL E LEGANCE IS I MPERATIVE ...

H OLD YOUR NEXT M EETING AT...

Creating unique and memorable experiences...one meeting at a time

the ELEGANCE of a LANDMARK HOTEL � DISCREET SERVICE and exceptional COMFORT enjoy the FINEST of EVERYTHING � cuisine from CAFÉ BOULUD styling by FRÉDÉRIC FEKKAI Salon & Spa � WORTH AVENUE shopping and ART TOP THREE BOUTIQUE/LIFESTYLE HOTELS - Smart Meetings 2015 CONDÉ NAST GOLD LIST - 2015 WORLD'S 500 BEST HOTELS - Travel + Leisure 2014 ENDURING CLASSIC - Fodor’s 100 Hotel Awards 2013 RANKED #1 FLORIDA - Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award 2013 #1 HOTEL IN SOUTH FLORIDA - Travel + Leisure 2011 �

�

�

301 AUSTRALIAN AVENUE, PALM BEACH, FL 33480 | 561.655.7740 WWW.T HE B RAZILIAN C OURT. COM

a publication of the florida society of association executives

27

Recent Events Central FL Power Luncheon

May 8, 2015

DOWNTOWN TAMPA

tallahassee Power Luncheon

May 20, 2015

28 JULY/AUG 2015

Success!

Online Auction a Success!

The Third Annual Online Auction was live from May 29th - June 5th • 62 items bid on (260 bids made) • Online Auction total: $13,085

Top 5 Items in Online Auction (10+ Bids Made): • Hard Rock Hotel Orlando Rockstar Package

• 2 Night Stay at Diamond Head Beach Resort & Spa, Ft. Myers Beach, FL ®

• FSAE Membership for 2016

• 2 Night Stay at Plantation on Crystal River, including Golf • 2 Night Stay at the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa

Silent Auction SneakPeek total Money Raised:

$43,672

Total Donations: 201 (139 in Silent Auction, 62 in Online Auction) More to come in the next issue of Source!

Thank you to our Auction Donors and everyone who participated to make this a success for the Foundation! www.fsae.org/auctionDonors a publication of the florida society of association executives

29

Support those who support FSAE

Buyer’s Guide

FACILITIES BELLASERA HOTEL, NAPLES

(800) 548-5284

BellaseraNaples.com/MeetingsGroups

THE BREAKERS PALM BEACH

(561) 653-6604

TheBreakers.com

CARIBE ROYALE

(407) 238-8100

CaribeRoyale.com

CUBA LIBRE

(407) 226-1600

www.cubalibrerestaurant.com

DAYTONA BEACH RESORT & CONFERENCE CENTER

(800) 654-6216

DaytonaBeachResort.com

DIAMONDHEAD BEACH RESORT

(888) 865-5844

DiamondheaFL.com/MeetingsGroups

Doubletree Hotel St. Augustine Historic DistricT

(904) 825-1923

StAugustineHistoricDistrict.DoubleTree.com

DOUBLETREE HOTEL TAMPA WESTSHORE

(800) 222-TREE

TampaDoubletree.com

Embassy Suites Jacksonville Baymeadows

(904) 731-3555

EmbassySuitesJax.com

EMBASSY SUITES ORLANDO - LAKE BUENA VISTA SOUTH

(407) 597-4100

OrlandoLakeBuenaVistaSouth.EmbassySuites.com

EAU PALM BEACH resort & spa

(561) 540-4806

eaupalmbeach.com

HAMMOCK BEACH RESORT

(866) 841-0287

HammockBeach.com

HILTON COCOA BEACH OCEANFRONT

(321) 799-0003

HiltonCocoaBeach.com

HILTON DAYTONA BEACH RESORT/OCEAN WALK VILLAGE

(386) 947-8011

daytonahilton.com

HILTON KEY LARGO RESORT

(305) 852-5553

KeyLargoResort.com

HILTON ORLANDO

(407) 313-8400

thehiltonorlando.com/meetings

HILTON SANDESTIN BEACH GOLF RESORT & SPA

(877) 705-6641

SandestinBeachHilton.com

Hilton West palm Beach

(678) 300-8908

HiltonWestPalmBeach.com

HOLLYWOOD BEACH MARRIOTT

(954) 924-2202

MarriottHollywoodBeach.com

HYATT REGENCY CLEARWATER BEACH RESORT & SPA

(727) 373-1234

clearwaterbeach.hyatt.com

HUTCHINSON ISLAND MARRIOTT

(800) 947-2148

HutchinsonIslMarriott.com

HUTCHINSON ISLAND MARRIOTT BEACH RESORT & MARINA

(772) 225-3700

MarcoIslandMarriott.com

INNISBROOK Golf RESORT

(888) 794-8627

InnisbrookGolfResort.com

MARRIOTT HARBOR BEACH RESORT & SPA

(954) 766-6133

MarriottHarborBeach.com

MARRIOTT HOLLYWOOD BEACH

(954) 924-2202

HollywoodBeachMarriott.com

MARRIOTT ST. PETERSBURG/CLEARWATER

(866) 508-0265

StPeteClearwaterMarriott.com

Marriott West Palm Beach

(561) 833-1234

WestPalmBeachMarriott.com

MIAMI MARRIOTT BISCAYNE BAY

(305) 374-3900

MarriottBiscayneBay.com

MISSION INN

(800) 874-9053

MissionInnResort.com

NAPLES GRANDE BEACH RESORT

(239) 594-6736

NaplesGrandeResort.com

Ocean center

(800) 858-6444

OceanCenter.com

OCEAN REEF CLUB

(305) 367-2611

OceanReef.com

opal sands

(855) 410-3593

OpalSands.com

ORLANDO MARRIOTT LAKE MARY

(407) 995-1100

marriott.com/mcoml

ORLANDO WORLD CENTER MARRIOTT

(407) 238-8782

www.marriottworldcenter.com

PELICAN GRAND BEACH RESORT

(954) 556-7598

PelicanBeach.com

PGA NATIONAL RESORT AND SPA

(800) 533-4669

PGAresort.com

PLANTATION ON CRYSTAL RIVER

(800) 524-7733

www.PlantationOnCrystalRiver.com

THE PLAZA HISTORIC BEACH RESORT & SPA

(386) 267-1639

PlazaResortandSpa.com

PONTE VEDRA BEACH RESORTS

(800) 234-7842

PVresorts.com

RENAISSANCE ORLANDO HOTEL

(407) 513-7208

RenaissanceOrlandoAP.com

RENAISSANCE VINOY RESORT

(888) 303-4430

VinoyRenaissanceResort.com

THE RESORT AT MARINAVILLAGE

(239) 541-5000

MarinaVillageResort.com

REUNION RESORT

(866) 880-8563

SalamanderHotels.com

ROSEN CENTRE

(800) 800-9840

RosenCentre.com

30 JULY/AUG 2015

ROSEN PLAZA

(800) 336-9700

RosenPlaza.com

ROSEN SHINGLE CREEK

(866) 996-9939

RosenShingleCreek.com

SAFETY HARBOR RESORT

(727) 724-7708

SafetyHarborSpa.com

salamander SANDESTIN速 GOLF AND BEACH RESORT

(850) 267-6136

sandestin.com

SANIBEL HARBOUR MARRIOTT RESORT & SPA

(239) 466-4000

SanibelMarriott.com

SEMINOLE HARD ROCK

(800) 937-0516

SeminoleHardRockHollywood.com

SIRATA BEACH RESORT

(727) 363-5107

sirata.com

SUNDIAL

(239) 472-4151

sundialresort.com

TAMPA MARRIOTT WATERSIDE HOTEL & MARINA

(813) 204-6338

TampaWaterside.com

The Colony Palm Beach

(561) 655-5430

TheColonyPalmBeach.com

The Henderson

(540) 687-9392

TheHenderson.com

TRADEWINDS

(727) 363-2215

TradeWindsMeetings.com

Turnberry isle Miami

(800) 661-8101

TurnberryIsleMiami.com

SERVICES AMERICAN AUDIO VISUAL

(407) 888-8300

AmericanAudioVisual.com

AWARDS4U

(850) 878-7187

Awards4u.com

CONTRIBUTIONLINK

(850) 702.0144

ContributionLink.com

copeland Productions

(407) 617-0872

CopelandProductions.com

LINE1 COMMUNICATIONS

(850) 205-1111

Line1.com

ASSOCIATION STUDIOS

(800) 820-6020

AssociationStudios.com

HIGHER LOGIC

(866) 670-1402

HigherLogic.com

PEACH NEW MEDIA

(866) 702-3278

PeachNewMedia.com

Vernon Graphics & Promotions

(850) 222-7755

MyVernon.Biz/RickYood

CVBs THE BEACHES OF FORT MYERS & SANIBEL

(800) 237-6444

FortMyersSanibelMeetings.com

BRADENTON AREA CVB

(941) 729-9177

BradentonGulfIslands.com/Meetings

VISIT CENTRAL FLORIDA

(863) 551-4709

VisitCentralFlorida.com

COLLIER/NAPLES

(239) 253-5879

ParadiseCoast.com/Meetings

GREATER MIAMI CVB

(800) 933-8448

MiamiMeetings.com

VISIT JACKSONVILLE & THE BEACHES

(800) 340-4444

VisitJacksonville.com/meetings

EXPERIENCE KISSIMMEE

(407) 742-8252

MeetInKissimmee.com/meetings

VISIT ORLANDO

(800) 362-4424

OrlandoMeeting.com

DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES

(561) 233-3000

palmbeachfl.com

SEMINOLE COUNTY

(800) 800-7832

visitseminole.com

ST. AUGUSTINE/PONTE VEDRA

(800) 418-7529

myfloridameetings.com

VISIT ST. PETE/CLEARWATER

(727) 464-7234

VisitStPeteClearwater.com

VISIT TAMPA BAY

(800) 826-8358

VisitTampaBay.com

a publication of the florida society of association executives

31

South Florida Meetings The Brazilian Court Hotel Awaits your Discovery

If you seek casual elegance and an intimate atmosphere for your Board of Directors Meetings or Executive Retreats, then please allow me to present the Brazilian Court Hotel as the ideal location. A fully remodeled 1920s and 30s era historic boutique hotel, The Brazilian Court is in the heart of the historic Island of Palm Beach, tucked between multi-million dollar residences two blocks from the Atlantic Ocean and a short stroll from Worth Avenue. Add the culinary specialties of Jim Leiken and the famed Café Boulud as well as celebrity stylist Frederic Fekkai’s Palm Beach Salon, and you have the setting for a unique and memorable Palm Beach meeting experience.

For more information, visit www.thebraziliancourt.com or call 561-366-4303.

DISCOVER THE PALM BEACHES

The Palm Beaches deliver the perfect blend of amazing venues, excellent service, and an ideal South Florida setting. For 2015, they’ve also added $1 million in cash incentives!

Plus, with 47 miles of beaches, legendary golf and spa resorts, world-class shopping and dining, distinctive meeting hotels, and incredible indoor and outdoor event options, the possibilities are endless.

The Palm Beach County Convention Center boasts 350,000 square feet of event space, minutes from the beaches in the heart of downtown. This includes a 100,000 square-foot Exhibit Hall, a 22,000 square-foot Grand Ballroom, and 21,000 square feet of flexible space.

For information, and to take advantage of an incredible incentive program, visit palmbeachfl.com/incentive.

Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa

Oceanfront meetings at Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa are always effortless and offer meeting space with panoramic ocean views and many options for oceanfront events. Your attendees will be greeted with elements of the sun, sand and sea as they arrive in their newly re-envisioned guestrooms. In their downtime, they will not want to miss the Forbes Five-Star, Eau Spa, recently named a Top 25 Spa in the world by Conde Nast. Eau Palm Beach is the perfect setting for your next conference, incentive or special event.

Now offering 2016 group rates from $159 per night and incentives including Eau Spa discounts, complimentary basic meeting space Wi-Fi and so much more!

Visit eaupalmbeach.com/meetings, call 561-540-4806 or email events@eaupalmbeach.com for more information.

Hilton West Palm Beach

The Hilton West Palm Beach is the very embodiment of refinement, located in the center of downtown and directly connected to the Palm Beach County Convention Center. Offering 400 spacious rooms and 24,000 square feet of flexible function space that can accommodate over 800 people, the hotel also offers a great restaurant and lounge with indoor and outdoor seating next to the lavish resort style infinity pool. Across the street from CityPlace shopping and dining, the hotel is the premier choice of meeting planners and attendees, Only 3 miles from the airport and 2 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, convenience, outstanding culinary delivery and guest service combine to make the Hilton West Palm Beach an ideal choice for a conference in South Florida.

Call 678.300.8908 or visit HiltonWestPalmBeach.com.

32 JULY/AUG 2015

South Florida Meetings Continued Marriott West Palm Beach

Experience West Palm Beach Marriott, just steps from the Palm Beach County Convention Center, minutes from the airport and convenient to the historical allure and countless attractions of West Palm Beach, with 352 spacious guestrooms and 10 one-bedroom suites. Stay connected with 18,000 square feet of flexible event space accommodating over 600 guests. Give your ideas room to breathe in our outdoor courtyard where creativity is surrounded by outdoor seating and tropical lush landscape. Discover farm to fork dining at Bistro 1001 serving indigenous Florida Cuisine with herbs and vegetables grown from our on-site gardens. Experience legendary Marriott service, mobile check-in, Marriott Meeting App, free WIFI in lobby and guestrooms, and complimentary shuttle service -- the ideal West Palm Beach location.

Call 561.833.1234 or visit WestPalmBeachMarriott.com.

Ocean Reef Club

Secluded on the northernmost tip of Key Largo, Ocean Reef Club offers 2,500 pristine, secure acres less than an hour’s drive from Miami and easily accessible by car, yacht or through our private airport.

There are a variety of meeting spaces indoor and out, from Buccaneer Island for waterfront events of virtually any size to 30,000 total square feet of indoor space.

At Ocean Reef Club, select from more than 275 accommodations, including Inn rooms, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom villas and beautiful private homes. Beyond the meeting, there are endless ways to spend the day, with two championship golf courses, twenty tennis courts, dual oceanfront pools, a salon and spa, nine restaurants and lounges, and over a dozen eclectic shops.

Contact Ocean Reef Club at www. oceanreef.com or 800-843-2730.

New Sundial Gives Groups the Best of Sanibel Island

After an extensive renovation, Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel Island reveals not only a new look, but a new management group providing service from planning to check-out. Sundial Resort boasts 12,000 square feet of flexible space able to accommodate up to 300 guests and unique outdoor event space with breathtaking Gulf views. Sundial provides unique catering menus to fit any gathering, from formal meetings to informal small group discussions. The staff can help create a customized package to meet any need.

Accommodations at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa exist in concert with the natural beauty surrounding them. Guests select from spacious fully-equipped condominium accommodations in various sizes, complete with kitchen, living room, and dining area.

To learn more or to book a group meeting, please visit www.sundialresort.com or contact Donna Brown at donna.brown@sundialresort.com.

a publication of the florida society of association executives

33

South Florida Meetings Continued SunStream Hotels & Resorts

Whether you prefer the famous white sandy beaches of Fort Myers Beach, being minutes away from world-class shopping and dining in Naples, experiencing a world-famous event in Daytona Beach, or seeking to explore one of America’s most unique ecosystems in the Everglades, our Florida locations offer the perfect backdrop for your next meeting or special event. Your event will be orchestrated by our experienced sales and catering staff, who will assist in coordinating all meeting space arrangements, audio visual requirements, menus, transportation, recreational activities and special functions.

For information on meetings, weddings or special events, call (844) 234-2017 or visit www.sunstream.com/meetings. For more information about SunStream and their portfolio of hotels and resorts, visit www.sunstream.com.

The Colony Hotel

Host to American Presidents and British Royalty, movie stars and corporate czars, The Colony Hotel has been the center of Palm Beach society for nearly 70 years.

Located just steps away from shopping on world famous Worth Avenue and only 100 yards from a beautiful Atlantic Ocean beach, the intimate, friendly boutique hotel recently enjoyed a $9-million “reimagining” by renowned designer Carleton Varney. The Colony’s guests can choose between charming hotel rooms, luxurious suites, spectacular penthouses and spacious two bedroom villas. With a 4-Diamond Rating from AAA, The Colony offers fine dining at Polo Steaks and Seafood, and the hotel’s celebrated Royal Room is one of the nation’s premier cabarets, featuring headliners from Broadway and Hollywood.

For more information, call 561.655.5430 or visit www.thecolonypalmbeach.com

Turnberry Isle Miami

Turnberry Isle Miami is one of the premier meeting and conference destinations in the country. The resort’s centerpiece is a 40,000-square-foot Conference Center and Magnolia Courtyard, overlooking the Soffer Golf Course. The Conference Center has its own separate entrance that can accommodate valet and offers a fully automated registration area for private conference checkin. An on-site full service business center and state-of-the-art audio-visual company are at your disposal. Award-winning cuisine is prepared by a team of skilled chefs.The meetings and special events staff can design a wide range of team-building events, from golf tournaments and spa-themed socials, to cigar rolling demonstrations on Little Havana’s Calle Ocho or moonlight cruises up the Intracoastal Waterway.

Visit TurnberryIsleMiami.com or email RFP-TIR@TurnberryIsleMiami.com

34 JULY/AUG 2015

reconnect with Members from annual conference Special Section

AGS Expo Services AGS Expo Services is a white glove, face-to-face event decorating and service company creating successful trade show and event productions, sign and graphic design, and complete exhibit solutions. As a full service provider, we are firmly focused on our clients’ satisfaction.

Melissa Minkler, CEM

Senior Account Executive [407] 219-3903 mminkler@ags-expo.com www.ags-expo.com

stage sets to drapes, furnishings and labor services, AGS offers solutions that enhance the exhibitor and attendee experience.

To find out how AGS can build your most memorable events from start to finish, go to www.ags-expo.com.

A successful event starts with a partnership in production. As an instrumental part of any event, our general service contracting solutions assist our clients with the intricacies of event design and implementation.

From site visits to floor plan design, entrance units and event graphics,

CARIBE ROYALE ALL-SUITE HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER

Lisa Miller Pacella, CMP Senior Sales Manager [407] 238-8039 lmiller@cariberoyale.com www.caribeRoyale.com

Offering exceptional all-suite accommodations and unsurpassed hospitality, Caribe Royale is the premier meeting destination in Florida.

A dedicated, veteran staff brings invaluable experience to each and every meeting. With 150,000 square feet of meeting space, the Caribe Royale can accommodate groups from 10 to 4,400 people. Flexible function space includes the 40,000square-foot Grand Sierra Ballroom, the 26,000-square-foot Caribbean Ballroom plus over 51 breakout rooms and three executive boardrooms.

There are several outdoor areas for themed events. Every person in your group will enjoy their own spacious suite. Each one of the 1,218 onebedroom suites features a private bedroom and separate living area, work area and large bathroom. Other amenities include two large HDTVs, in-suite coffee/tea maker, microwave and refrigerator. There are 120 twobedroom villas uniquely appointed

with amenities that include a spacious master suite with whirlpool tub, fully equipped kitchen, dining area, living room and private screened lanai. The villas also offer an excellent option for small meetings or breakout sessions.

A recent, $3.5 million renovation to the main reception building include the addition of two new lounges. Dining options include a variety of restaurants such as the AAA-Four Diamond rated The Venetian Room, 24 hour deli, and 24 hour room service. A large, tropical pool with waterfalls and waterslide, a two-story state-of-the-art fitness center and The Island spa complete the many amenities available.

Caribe Royale is part of Stash Hotel Rewards, an innovative hotel rewards program for distinctive, independent hotels without blackouts or inflexible category restrictions. Guests can earn points toward free nights and meeting planners can earn points on qualifying Caribe Royale meetings!

a publication of the florida society of association executives

35

reconnect with Members from annual conference Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Oceanfront Hotel This quintessential harbor town invites you to relax, unwind and experience Florida at its very best. Nestled within quaint Pompano Beach, Marriott introduces a unique hotel experience which echoes the history of times past and embraces the simplicity of oceanfront Florida living. Allow time to pass slowly and soak up the sun on the pristine Atlantic coastline the new Fort Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Oceanfront Hotel calls home.

Crystal Lezama

Sales Manager [954] 944-9511 crystal.lezama@marriott.com

Spacious guestrooms and suites provide sweeping ocean views from private balconies while laid back dining options and oceanfront seclusion lull you into relaxation. Offering multiple swimming pools, on-site watersport rentals and beach activities, as well as close proximity to area golf courses, casinos, racetrack, boat cruises and fishing charters…Pompano is sure to

cater to any indulgent or adventurous need. Or, guests can simply relax in the resort’s on-site spa, SiSpa. Flexible meeting facilities with ocean views and services complemented

by Marriott's renowned meeting expertise make this the perfect beach front location for any group (10-150 attendees), or special event. From the Resort’s more intimate 1400 sq. ft. oceanfront Aruba Meeting Room to its’ 2800 sq. ft. Grand Bahama Ballroom… your attendees will be impressed! Treat your attendees to breaks and meals pool-side, or on the resort’s stunning Ocean Terrace which features fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Conveniently situated between Fort Lauderdale and Deerfield Beach.

Just 15 miles from Fort LauderdaleHollywood Int’l Airport (FLL).

Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront

John Read

Director of Sales [321] 613-9023 john.read@hilton.com www.hiltonCocoaBeach.com

36 JULY/AUG 2015

Ideally situated on a pristine white beach along Florida’s Space Coast, Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront offers everything necessary for a family vacation, a business trip or a conference. The oceanfront pool deck features Longboards Tiki Beach Grille, fire pits and a private access to the beach. There is 10,000 sq ft of flexible meeting and banquet space available to handle all your needs.

Our dedicated service team provides personalized comforts, conveniences and recommendations for everything from surf lessons, bike rentals and beach setups all to ensure a magical getaway for business and leisure guests alike.

In the fall of 2014, the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront showcased its completed Multi-Million dollar renovation. Every area of the hotel is brand new; this includes all guest rooms, meeting spaces, public areas, fitness center and technology lounge.

The renovation reinvented Salt Restaurant and Lounge and turned the

oceanfront deck into the focal point of the hotel, which includes a 2,000 sq ft Tiki Bar called, “Longboards Tiki Beach Grille”, a great place to relax after a long day of meetings.

The hotel has 10,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space that divides into 13 different meeting rooms. The largest ballroom is 4,500 sq ft and divides into three sections. We also have a second ballroom which is 1,500 sq ft and a unique 1,400 sq ft oceanfront banquet room.

This full service oceanfront Hilton is ideally located on Central Florida’s East Coast, 50 minutes from Orlando, 20 minutes to Kennedy Space Center Visitor’s Complex and five miles to Port Canaveral, now Florida’s 2nd largest Cruise Port.

If you are looking for a central location, outstanding service levels and a newly renovated hotel, the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront is the perfect hotel for your conference.

reconnect with Members from annual conference Visit Jacksonville Jacksonville is Florida’s most affordable destination, where you are able to do it all!

Perfectly positioned along the Atlantic Coast in Northeast Florida, Jacksonville is the ideal site for your next Convention or Meeting, whatever the season. With year-round sunshine and delightful weather, the largest urban park system in the nation and a nationally recognized Art scene, Jacksonville is the place to be when looking for a luxurious yet affordable destination.

Karen Townsend

National Accounts Manager [904] 421-9172 ktownsend@visitjacksonville.com www.visitJacksonville.com

10,000. Jacksonville is home to over 200 hotels and resorts with close to 18,000 rooms, giving planners the unique opportunity to choose from oceanfront boutique resorts, modern suburban hotels and elegant riverfront accommodations as they plan their stay.

The “River City by the Sea” provides groups and associations the opportunity to meet by the water, either the St. Johns River or the Atlantic Ocean in beautiful, historic, flexible and state-of-the art venues that cannot be found in any other city in Florida. From our remarkable Prime Osborn Convention Center to our modern and award winning Sports Complex, Jacksonville has the right venue for your group of 10 or

In Jacksonville there is always something to do! We are the largest city in the continental United States with over 840 square miles and we are also home to more Fortune 500 companies that any other Florida city, giving us an edge when it comes to business opportunities. Beyond the meeting room, the possibilities for a memorable experience await you here; Jacksonville offers groups hundreds of unique and exciting offsite venues, 22 miles of stunning beaches, over 70 beautiful golf courses, mouth-watering waterfront dining options and worldclass attractions ready to make your Jacksonville experience a remarkable one.

Yacht StarShip is Florida’s largest dining yacht company with a fleet of yachts for all occasions! Perfect for groups of up to 600, Yacht StarShip features top quality service, breathtaking views, entertainment, and award-winning cuisine.

Florida’s largest dining yacht with a capacity of 600 passengers. Featuring three decks and four separate dining rooms, this is the only yacht in the Tampa Bay area with elevator service to all three decks and an entertainment deck unlike any other!

We’re America’s first dining yacht to be recognized by AAA with a threediamond rating, which places us in the top 28% of restaurants nationwide. We offer an extensive selection of plated, buffet, and reception-style menus, all prepared fresh on board and cooked to order. Along with a DJ on all cruises and optional entertainment enhancements, a Yacht StarShip cruise is one your guests will look forward to and remember for years to come!

Yacht StarShip II: At 130-feet, this is Tampa Bay’s largest 150 passenger yacht with a 360-degree panoramic third deck.

Yacht Starship

Laura Lothridge

[813] 223-7999 Laura@yachtstarship.com www.yachtStarship.com

Yacht StarShip I: At 180-feet, this is

Yacht Sensation: At 92-feet, this yacht offers the perfect private yacht experience and is a great choice for groups up to 128 passengers.

With locations in Tampa and Clearwater Beach, Yacht StarShip is also available for relocation throughout West Central Florida.

a publication of the florida society of association executives

37

FSAE Foundation

Thank You Foundation Investors! may/june 2015

Merrily Bennett Barney T. Bishop, III Noelle Bonard Meg Caldwell, CMP Graham Demont Linda Dennis Mark P. Fontaine, CAE Fran M. Gilbert, CAE Letreze Gooding, CMP Angie Harris, CMP Carolyn D. Hinson, CGMP Laura Jersey David L. Kanagy

Sharon Laing Rachel Luoma, MS, CAE Rebecca A. McCollum Penny Mitchell, CMP Bill Montford Sandy Nicotra Jaime Nolan, CAE Angela O’Reilly Al Pasini, CAE P. Christine Poole, CMP Larry Short Sherry Whitney Wilson W. Wright, CAE

Make an investment in your professional association: www.fsae.org/MakeADonation

Register Now for the 2015 Foundation Think Tank

Associations 2024: The Next Generation of Associations & Leaders September 24-26, 2015 | Hammock Beach, Palm Coast Speaker/Facilitator: Gabriel Eckert, CAE Millennials are now the largest generation in the workforce. Professional societies and trade organizations must remain relevant, contend against increasing competition and engage this new generation of association leaders.

This year’s Think Tank will explore what your association is doing or should be doing to engage the next generation of association members and leaders.

38 JULY/AUG 2015

Learn more and register now: www.fsae.org/thinkTank

DIAMONDHEAD BEACH RESORT & SPA Fort Myers Beach, Florida

Where business is anything but usual Discover a world of authentic, immersive, and memorable experiences in the most unique Florida destinations. sunstream.com/meetings

BALLROOMS & BOARDROOMS WITH ON�SITE DINING & CATERING 7 UNIQUE HOTELS FEATURING 42 � 171 SPACIOUS SUITES AND 1,000 � 8,000 SQ. FT. OF VERSATILE SPACES & SETUPS

Competitive group rates and booking incentives: 844 234 2017

B URGEES , B I R D I E S A ND BO ARD M EETING S.

Whether you are flying the burgee off your bow or birdie hunting on one of our two 18-hole championship courses, after your organization meets here they will be flying your company flag high and proud. Less than an hour from Miami International Airport, this private members only club, boasts luxurious comfort, impeccable service and advanced capabilities that will ensure your meeting is an inspired one. It is paradise found, not far from home.

Amidst our charming surroundings you’ll also find: 30,000 sq. ft. of meeting space • 2 Championship golf courses Fishing, diving and snorkeling • Tennis Center • The Spa

For a Personal Meetings Manager call 800.843.2730 or email orcsales@oceanreef.com • oceanreef.com

A

U

T

H

E

N

T

I

C

•

P

R

I

V A T

E

•

U

N

I

Q

U

E