September/October 2014
OnSite
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This program is about navigating in a digital world where tradition has been turned on its ear. ...The disruption of everything we know as traditional business practices and modes of communication. Disruption has occurred in how we do business, how we communicate and how we reach people. • Learn why you need to think and act differently as a buyer or a seller. • Understand why processes and systems from the 20th century hamper your success in the 21st century. • Recognize new buyer expectations. • Realize what sales skills and abilities you may need to develop or expand. Dr. Rach will share genuine ideas and uncommon sense tinged with her special brand of humor as she describes the new normal. Find out what it's going to take to survive in the digital age and get Dr. Rach's take on what comes next! You cannot afford to miss this futuristic guide to surviving in the digital age.
Location: Stone House at Stirling Ridge Address: 50 Stirling Road l Warren, New Jersey 07059 Program Schedule: 10:00 am - 12:30 pm - Registration 10:30 am - 11:00 am - New Member Orientation 11:00 am - 12:00 pm - Networking 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm - Luncheon 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm - Educational Program & Announcements About Dr. Lalia Rach Lalia's background includes leading some of the world's top hospitality and tourism programs at the university level. Currently she is Associate Dean of the College of Management and Director of the School of Hospitality Leadership at the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Menomonie, Wisconsin. She is the former divisional dean and professor at the New York University Robert Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management.
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In this issue
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
What’s New At MPI-NJ? Page 4
Attending Industry Events With A Little “Etiquette” Page 5
Industry Summer Bash 2014 Page 67
WEC 2014 Page 812
5 Micro Trends Defining Event Technology Page 13
October Education Meeting Page 14
The Changing Face of Team Building Page 1617
Membership Corner Page 18
Immigration Reform Page 20
Increasing Your Network Using LinkedIn Page 21
Writing in the Here and Now Page 2223
New, Transfer and Affiliate Members Page 24
MPINJ Strategic Partners Page 25
MPINJ Executive Board Page 26
MPINJ Board of Directors Page 26
MPINJ Committee Chairs Page 27
2014 MPI-NJ Events Thu., October 2, 2014 Meet Up Networking Event Nassau Inn Palmer Square 10 Palmer Square East Princeton, NJ 08542 Click Here To Register
Wed., October 22, 2014 6 Powerful Strategies for Travel and Meeting Partnership 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM New Jersey Sharing Network 691 Central Avenue New Providence, NJ Registration will be open soon!
A
s summer comes to a close, we at MPINJ are gearing up for a great season ahead. I always look forward to September each year because for me it is my favorite season filled with: cooler weather, changing leaves, football, fall festivals, apple picking, and most of all getting back into our MPINJ routine. This year, however, is by no means routine. The theme of the 2014 WEC in Minneapolis was DISCOVERY and INNOVATION. The city of Minneapolis rolled out the red carpet for us. And, MPI International really kicked the educational components and speakers up a few notches this year. The quality and range of speakers were fantastic and really drove home the theme of discovery and innovation into one consistent message throughout the event. The keynote speakers were truly innovators in their respective fields. Nolan Bushnell and Steve Wozniak shared all about their successes, but more importantly how their failures led to even greater successes. Laura Schwartz taught us how to work at being present. Deepak Chopra
shared his ideas around why face to face meetings matter and to hear the collective gasp when he told us that multi-tasking is the worst thing we could do for us and those around us. His point was that we need to FOCUS on one aspect of our life at a time – how can we focus on home or personal relationships while at the same time focusing on work. I also appreciated his daily mantra to be the best person he can be by promising to himself every day to be the best to his spouse, his body, his mind, and his soul. Talk about discovery! It was a great conference and for me a way to discover new relationships, new skills, new ideas, and even learn a few things about me! I encourage you to visit www.mpiweb.org to see the on-line broadcasts of the various sessions. Taking part in the Chapter Leadership Day enabled several of us from MPINJ to benchmark and share best practices amongst the other chapters. It also solidified for me that MPINJ is on an amazing journey and we have so many things to be proud of and excited about in the year ahead. A special thank you to all of our members for continuing Continued on page 23
OTHER INDUSTRY EVENTS Tue., September 23, 2014
October 14 – 16, 2014
MPIPhiladelphia Area Chapter A Sustainable Kitchen: “Tell Me What You Eat, and I’ll Tell You Who You Are” Top of the Tower 1717 Arch Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 Click Here For Details
IMEX America Sands Expo Las Vegas www.imexamerica.com
Tue., September 30, 2014 MPIGreater New York Chapter Fall Networking Social Bowlmor Lanes Times Square New York, NY 10036 Click Here For Details
November 18 – 20, 2014 EIBTM Barcelona, Spain www.eibtm.com
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What’s New At MPI-NJ?
I
hope everyone had a wonderful and relaxing summer. Now that everyone is re-charged and back at work, this is a great time to join Meeting Professionals International –New Jersey Chapter and make a commitment to being a part of this wonderful chapter!
This is just the beginning - a new fabulous year at MPI-NJ and the perfect time for you to make valuable connections, hear about best practices, become engaged in the industry, learn something new, give back and take your career to a whole new level. In addition to the many ADDED BENEFITS you will receive from the MPI-NJ, there will be a special "Membership Corner" article included in each issue of OnSite, starting with this issue. If you are already a member of MPI-NJ Chapter, then NOW is the time to get more involved! Don’t let another year go by where you’re looking back and thinking you should have volunteered. MPI-NJ needs you! And you get credit towards your certification or recertification. Please take a look at the committee list and see what sounds like a good fit for you. Every committee needs help. If you are not sure which committee to join, please call MPI-NJ at 201-875-2476 to discuss.
each other. MPI-NJ members are not only coworkers, but friends!! If you are not a member of MPI-NJ and would like to see if MPI-NJ is a fit for you, please attend our first educational program of the year on September 10, 2014. If this is your first MPI-NJ educational program, you can attend at the lower member rate. Click here for details and to register! The MPI-NJ office is always here to help if you have any questions about MPI or your membership! Enjoy the Fall and see you on September 10, 2014!
Rut h Marion, CMP
MPI-NJ Chapter Administrator
201-875-2476
rmarion@mpinewjersey.org
Click here to see a list of committees. Click here for the volunteer sign up form. If you are a member of another great MPI Chapter, you can also be a Member of the New Jersey Chapter as an Affiliate Member! The fee is only $99.00 per year and you get all the benefits of a MPI-NJ Member! Plus, there are additional benefits and opportunities being an ACTIVE MPI-NJ Member.... MPI-NJ Members support and recommend each other professionally. MPI-NJ members network together, do business together, and learn from
Special 30th Anniversary Committee Calling all members who would like to be part of this special committee which will convene in December to begin planning our Anniversary Year of Activities. Committee will be responsible for working with special events, communications, and the Office of the President to drive the message around our 30th Anniversary in December of 2015. If you are interested, please contact Ruth Marion at rmarion@mpinewjersey.org who will consolidate the list so we can begin contacting the committee. Thank you.
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ATTENDING INDUSTRY EVENTS WITH A LITTLE “ETIQUETTE”
T
he hospitality industry can provide endless receptions and events for us to attend ranging from monthly association meetings, conferences, and educational seminars to galas. With those many varied educational and celebratory occasions we also need to observe the etiquette and protocol side of these events. That includes what to wear, what to bring as a gift if necessary, when to arrive and leave, how much to eat and drink, where to go first, and how is it possible to eat, drink, talk, shake hands and exchange business cards all at the same time. Here are my Top Ten Tips to be the perfect guest and attendee:
one else is approaching them, then visit a little longer. Once they start looking over your shoulder, then it is time to move on.
1. Always RSVP. No matter the type, cost or importance of an event, let the person know if you are attending or not. It helps with their planning, 7. Eating, talking and shaking hands are not one of those “multitasking” trios you want to accomplish. timeline and most definitely their budget. Be Please do all of those one at a time. Yes, you can considerate and respond as quickly as you can with hold a dish, napkin and a drink in your left hand as a yes or a no response. you work the room. It becomes very tricky to pull out your business card to exchange at the end of 2. Dress appropriately. Yes, we are much more casual the conversation. I strongly urge meeting all those for both business and pleasure. There is a time and new connections first, and then asking them to join place for business dress and casual fun, just don’t you at a cocktail table so you can set down your get them confused. If you are the planner, then “refreshments,” then you can alternate your talking help out the attendees by listing the dress for the and eating. event with a little explanation. 3. Never come to a person’s home empty handed. 8. Remember, receptions are a time to meet, exchange business cards and set up future meetings. This is Bring a small gift. The cost of the gift is not the not the time to bring in boxes of brochures and issue but the presentation and the thought is what proposals. Save those for the next step. counts. Always remember to include a card inside the gift or a tag on the handle of the bag. If you bring a bottle of wine, don’t open it and drink it. It 9. Send thank you notes. Thank the host/hostess for inviting you. They will remember a handwritten is a gift for your host and for them to enjoy later. thank you note sent the day after the event much more than the many conversations and handshakes 4. Arrive on time or within 15 minutes of the start of from the night before. Make a lasting impression the event with a reception, dinner and program. If with them. it is a come-and-go reception, then still arrive within the first 15-20 minutes or you will miss the VIPs. Those important attendees will make their 10. Follow-up. If someone at a reception or event asks you for a brochure, proposal or even just a question appearance early, shake hands and then leave. You that needs an answer about your company, then just missed an important purpose of networking by send it immediately. Your quick response will make arriving late. all the difference in possible future business. 5. If a reception is 90 minutes, then stay at least 45 minutes. Don’t brand yourself as coming in tasting About the Author the food, drinking and then leaving. Nor do you Colleen A. Rickenbacher CMP, CSEP, CPC, CTA, want to be the first to arrive and the last to leave. CPECP is an international business and dining Drink and eat minimally and network maximally. etiquette expert, trainer and author of Be On Your Best Business Behavior, Be On Your Best Cultural 6. Always approach the host/hostess when you arrive. Behavior, The Big Book of People Skills Games and Be Greet them, thank them for inviting you, exchange On Your Best Teenage Behavior. She helps clients a few words and then move on. They have a lot of stand out by improving their etiquette, protocol and other people to meet and greet. Of course, each communication skills. For information on her situation is different. If the event is smaller and no speaking, training or books, visit: www.colleenrickenbacher.com or colleen@crspeaks.com.
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INDUSTRY SUMM
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MER BASH 2014
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he rain did not stop 100+ meeting professionals from having a great time at the Industry Summer Bash 2014 on Tuesday, August 12th. MPI-NJ was proud to take part in this event along with over 15 NYC area hospitality, tourism and marketing associations. Upon arrival, we enjoyed lots of hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and networking dockside. Once we set sail, we dined on more delicious food and continued networking while taking in the magnificent views of Manhattan and Lady Liberty! A special silent auction was held to support the American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge in NY, the HSMAI student scholarship fund, and the SYTA Youth Foundation. Many great prizes including travel, restaurant and entertainment vouchers were available to bid on. There was something for everyone! After dinner, the DJ played some great music and got everyone up and on the dance floor. It was a fabulous evening of great food, beautiful views and lots of networking! Thank you to HSMAI for organizing this fun event!
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DISCOVERING WHAT'S NEW IN T
I
am so grateful to MPI - NJ for providing the scholarship for me to attend MPI WEC 2014 in Minneapolis. Walking into the convention center, I was greeted with a banner which said "When We Meet We Change the World." What I experienced throughout the conference is that when MPI Professionals meet in one venue in the world, we share knowledge to collectively guide the vision of meetings. From all of the education sessions, networking opportunities and business transactions taking place, this conference far exceeded my expectations. Beginning with Saturday afternoon, I attended Wine & Cheese with SMME's. It was a welcome change for me as a hotelier sitting at a table where the planners outnumbered the suppliers. I learned that even though SMMP offers a structure for organizations to follow that not every company implements, specific policies are defined as "Strategic Meeting Management". For example, I met Eric Gann from Hughes Network Systems and he described all of the procedures of SMM that his team currently has in place, only he didn't know there was a name for it. It was exciting to be a part of that revelation. And this was just the start of the conference! I met up with my good friend and one of last year's scholarship winners, Carol Malinky, CMP and we decided to take a pedicab to a networking reception prior to the opening party. This was just the beginning of exploring Minneapolis. The opening reception began with a flash mob leading to the party entrance which included creative catering and picturesque views. Thanks to Nikki with CWT, we learned that the famous Guthrie Theater was located right next door. Along with NJ Chapter President, Pam Wynne, CMM, CMP, and Carol Malinky, CMP, we took the opportunity to visit this iconic theater and the amazing views it allows.
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HE INDUSTRY AT THE WEC 2014
Sunday night was the Big East reception bringing chapters from NJ, Potomac and across NY State together. Networking with our neighboring chapters was a lot of fun and connections were made. The most moving keynote hands down was given by Deepak Chopra. He suggested that we think of our body as a verb not a noun. He explained that the #1 trend in the world is well being: Physical, social, community, career and financial. He inspired us to express our full potential, to be physically, emotionally and spiritually fit. In closing, he recommended that we all be mindful of our words with each other and to ask yourself: Is it necessary, true and compassionate and will it be kind to the receiver? Words can heal, hurt and kill. Through the Flashpoints on Sunday and Monday we heard: - Transformation is not an observation it is a conscious choice - Meeting professionals have the power to break the profit above people cycle - Have the courage to bring all of what you have to all that you do - When we work on wild teams we will create wild meetings - You must be present to win - You will learn more from your mistakes than achievements On Monday, I joined my colleague at our table during the Hosted Buyer Appointments. Presenting my property in pre-arranged 15 minute appointments was made easier with the electronic profiles and scheduling program. I had the opportunity to make new connections and am excited to see where these new relationships will grow. Here are highlights from a few Educational Sessions I attended: 1. RFP Reconstructed -Planners are asking the
burning question - "Why can't I get a competitive, complete response quickly?" With today's technology, hotels are being inundated with several RFP's each day. Hotel representatives explained that the trend is growing toward having to "sell" the group's event to their team in a daily business review meeting before they can even consider responding to the RFP. Also, without a complete RFP including Continued on page 10
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DISCOVERING WHAT'S NEW IN THE INDUST
rate history or at least a range in budget, the hotel has no way to know if they have a chance on winning the bid, so that RFP may go to the bottom of their priority list. Through attendee input , we discovered that planners are shy about providing event history specifically guest room rate because they may be challenged by their boss to get a better deal. From a Global Sales Office representative reflecting on the RFP example provided, he compared the cities being considered and the number of properties in each of those cities. He knows his competition so he can estimate the number of properties that are being sourced which allows him to calculate the likely hood of one of his properties actually winning the bid, so again, that RFP may not be highest on the priority list. Planners should be more strategic when sourcing properties and not abuse the ease of technology. Helpful Tips for planners in getting a timely response: • Pick up the phone when a hotelier calls • Let the hotels know what the meeting agenda/goals are by using the free form boxes available in electronic RFP's
• Flexibility is key. Hotels can hit any budget if you have flexibility • In order to receive a well thought out response to your RFP, do not expect a response the same day. 2. Digitally Disoriented: How to Win Business from Today’s Tech and Media Savvy Planner Give planners what they want to know. The subject line needs to be different than what is being sent from your marketing team. Emails must be personal and from your individual email account. During the consideration stage, planners want to know about special considerations a hotel will offer. Try to capture success stories from satisfied customers and share them with potential planners. The willingness to share success stories makes hotels a better partner. 3. Sales Deal of The Day: 40 Persuasive tips in 40 minutes This session was jammed packed with sales professionals looking for any tip on how to be more effective. Deborah Gardner encouraged us
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TRY AT THE WEC 2014
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(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9)
to consider what our own worth is and to be trustworthy. - Sell the sizzle not the steak - If it is tangible, it must save time and/or money. - If it is intangible, it must provide piece of mind. - Take action and set a deadline to get the buyer to move. - Disclose what will happen if the buyer doesn't buy. - Once the buyer experiences your services, what is the benefit? - Deborah recommends writing a blog or article about your expertise and to keep on learning. 4. Really early on Tuesday morning, David shared with us that to be a good role model you have to be able to give appropriate feedback to grow your subordinates. David recommends to catch people doing things well. They should not be nervous when you ask to speak with them. Your feedback should not be scheduled, or feel forced. A few points he offered are: - Be Specific and Honest - Give it in Person - No email! - Be Descriptive, not Judgmental - Be Timely - not immediately after the event so
they tune you out, but within a reasonable time following that it is still fresh in their mind. - Stay Above The Water Line. (Behavior iceberg) Iceberg behavior - David explained how a person's behavior is similar to an iceberg - 20% is what we see (above the water line) and the other 80% is what we don't see (below the water line). David went on to define the 20% of what we see or what someone says and does is shaped by the 80% of what is below the surface - their experiences, perceptions, attitudes, personality, environment, character, motivation, etc. All of the 80% drives the 20%. When giving feedback, focus on what they do, not who they are. DO NOT GO BELOW THE LINE, otherwise the person will get defensive. David shared his fool proof process: E2C2 Example - locate the person in space and time and provide living proof - When you did ... Effect - state the effect it has on you, not on other people, speak in the 1st person. Then you choose if you want their behavior to change or if your feedback is positive, encourage it to continue: Continued on page 12
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WEC 2014
(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11) 1. Change - coach them on how they can change. Ask them, what can they do differently? Or as the coach, retrain them on what must be changed if it goes against policy. Don't give the solution - it's ok to keep silent or schedule a follow up timeframe. This will give the person ownership of making their own decision on how to proceed. 2. Continue - if it is positive, reinforce the behavior. David told us that if we are not getting any feedback from our superior, it is ok to ask for it. On Tuesday, I was in a Campfire with our NJ Chapter President Pam Wynne, CMM, CMP and she challenged the session attendees to sum up our conference experience in one word... mine was Inspired! The closing party was a fabulous opportunity to connect with each other while experiencing another piece of Minneapolis. And, if you were lucky enough to have Wednesday afternoon free, you would have received a free ticket to the Minneapolis Twins baseball game when they hosted the San Diego Padres. I was honored to attend the game with Doug McPhee from Experient and speaker David Bancroft - Turner who is from the United Kingdom. It turns out this was David's very first Major League Baseball game. Thank you to Meet Minneapolis for a fun afternoon in the sun. At the airport before going to our separate gates to head home, Doug McPhee asked me what the best thing I got out of WEC. I thought for a few seconds... Deepak's moving keynote, the inspirational Flashpoints, the creative Campfires, Productive Hosted Buyer appointments, education sessions, receptions, networking etc. Then I thought for another 5 seconds and figured it out... The best thing to come out of my WEC 2014 experience is still to come. Written by: Karen Rogowski Sales Manager Turning Stone Resort & Casino Karen.Rogowski@TurningStone.com 315.361.7975
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5 MACRO TRENDS DEFINING EVENT TECHNOLOGY
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am not a big fan of trends, especially when they are the result of the speculation of the pundit of the moment. Yet there is terrific value in understanding the main drivers defining the way we adopt a product or a service. For the last 4 years I have led a research into the technology produced and consumed in the event industry. This is an ongoing analysis of more than 900 startups producing tech for the event industry. Usually such analysis gives us a clear idea of what to expect for the next year. 2014 is defined by 3 attendeedriven macro trends, stimulating event tech geeks to create more meaningful innovation for our industry. Technology is becoming pretty much hygiene for the connected attendee. A wifi not working is often compared to lack of toilets. With this premise in mind, let's look at some areas driving the latest event technology innovation. Interaction There is a clear message coming from our attendees: frontal lectures are dead boring. Tech providers noticed that as well. One of the defining tech trends of 2014 revolves around empowering attendees to interact more during the event with the performer. Therefore, tools like throwable or app powered mics are gaining the interest of audiences around the world.
Also, polling and audience response systems platforms are getting a facelift to cater for the new social media demands of tech savvy audiences. Integrating means of interaction within slides is defining a new presentation standard, more interactive and audience oriented. Collective Media The value of content and media is becoming the ultimate marketing weapon in a social media dominated environment. This is for brands and events alike. Content is driving more attendees to get to know our event or interact with it even once it is over. Therefore, all those tools that help collecting and making better use of user generated content are becoming the new essential of the modern event experience. Think social media walls or collaborative platforms where attendees can send all the pictures taken for the event.
experience by reaching attendees' mobile devices. From custom push notifications in event mobile apps to iBeacons, the possibilities are endless. Also worth noting are those apps that transform audience devices in second screens, the latter being particularly valuable for presentations. Attendees will be able to save slides, make notes and share on social media. In Conclusion The meeting experience is evolving together with technological advancements. There is no workaround about having a great concept that educates, entertains and satisfies our guests. Technology helps to dissipate a powerful concept in more tangible ways that all attendees’ age groups can appreciate. Do not miss out on the opportunities that tech offers, but always with an incremental approach. Start small, analyze and invest or divest accordingly.
Personalization The standard meeting attendee shows up at the event with at least one mobile device. 1.5 devices would be a safe bet. Therefore, this is a huge opportunity to mass customize the event experience and there are several ways to incorporate technology into events. A number of apps on the market help deliver a more personal
Written by: Julius Solaris Editor of EventManagerBlog.com
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OCTOBER EDUCATION MEETING
6 Powerful Strategies for Travel and Meeting Partnership Moderator: Debi Scholar, Global Cross-Divisional Category Leader/Director Virtual Meetings, Div Category Congress & Events, Novartis
D
ebi Scholar is a coach and mentor in Strategic Meetings Management and Virtual / Hybrid meetings and volunteers her time to help corporations, associations, and suppliers. She was a Meetings and Group Travel Director at PricewaterhouseCoopers, a Director at American Express, and owned her own consultancy, Scholar Consulting Group. She recently accepted the role of Global Leader and Director of Virtual Meetings at a major pharmaceutical company working in the Strategic Sourcing group. Debi has authored four books on meetings and events was named one of the 25 Most Influential People in the Meetings Industry in 2013 by Successful Meetings Magazine, was the co-chair of the GBTA Groups & Meetings Committee, a GBTA Foundation Board Member, named a “Mover and Shaker” of the industry by Corporate & Incentive Travel Magazine, and was named a Top 20 Changemaker by Corporate Meetings & Incentives Magazine. Debi has achieved 9 designations, including CMM, CMP. Program Description: Conquer the challenges of travel and meeting organizational separation by learning the six critical components that should be integrated for a successful travel and meetings program. Hear from industry experts who have succeeded in bringing these program strategies together to improve service, reduce costs and risks, and improve transparency into spending behaviors.
Learner Objectives: You will learn how to: • Influence travel and meeting partnership by revealing the value proposition • Rely on your suppliers to improve your integrated travel and meeting program strategy • Align travel and meetings for optimal success using measurable key performance indicators Date:
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
4:00pm Registration and Networking 5:00pm Program 6:00pm Reception Location: New Jersey Sharing Network (http://www.njsharingnetwork.org/) 691 Central Avenue New Providence, New Jersey The NJ Sharing Network Foundation is committed to increasing the number of lives saved through education, research, donor family support and public awareness about the life-saving benefits of organ and tissue donation and transplantation. By making a contribution to the NJ Sharing Network Foundation, you empower our efforts, bringing us a step closer to providing the greatest gift of all: life.
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september/october 2014
WE’RE NEARBY. BUT BEYOND EXPECTATIONS. Welcome to Kalahari, a uniquely African-themed convention center resort that goes above and beyond expectations. You’ll find 65,000 sq. feet of flexible convention space, state-of-the-art meeting and breakout rooms along with five-star amenities and fine dining options. We’ve hosted over 22,000 groups and 1.4 million group room nights in our existing locations. We know attendees also want to relax. We have a range of world-class leisure activities from our spa to our family-friendly waterparks. Just one more reason our clients average a 20% attendance increase by hosting their event at Kalahari—where everything goes Beyond Expectations.
Visit KalahariMeetings.com/NJ or call 855.411.4605 to learn more.
POCONO MOUNTAINS, PA (COMING 2015) SANDUSKY, OH | WISCONSIN DELLS, WI ©2014 Kalahari Development LLC
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THE CHANGING FACE
I
have been involved in the event industry since 1950. Well, that’s not entirely accurate because in 1950 there wasn’t even the term “event industry”. However, that’s what my family business was in. And as soon as you could walk and talk, you went to work. In the 1950s through the 1970s, corporations had never even heard of, or let alone invested in team building. Over time, albeit slowly, corporations began to see a benefit in having their employees form some sort of bond and a support system through their company picnics and, therefore, team building was born. At the beginning it was mostly fun and games. There were friendly team competitions and teams won nothing more than bragging rights. Maybe you got to know the person who sat next to you a little better, but then things began to get serious. Trust fall anyone? Team building has now evolved into an industry onto itself. Yes, we still see a good amount of Scavenger Hunts and Team Olympics, but now companies are adding a charitable component and more corporate social responsibility (CSR) to their events. “Giving Back” is now the name of the Team Building game, and it is a “win win” with far more than just “bragging rights”. When employees participate in a give back program, it provides them with a great sense of accomplishment and a memorable shared experience. In addition to sharing these experiences, employees can also show off their accomplishments to family members and friends. The experience can live beyond just the “day of”. How nice to be able drive by a children’s
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E OF TEAM BUILDING playground that you and your employees have built or renovated or to see one of your art projects at a local hospital. But the employees are not the only ones who benefit. Recipients of these charitable and CSR programs are inner city schools, food banks, women’s shelters, and pediatric units at hospitals. Programs can be in the local community or global. Recently a library in India was the recipient of an art tile wall from ARTwithPURPOSE, a team building program. The Newark school system was also a recipient of tile tables created by the summer interns at Chubb. Charitable and CSR programs don’t have to mean that the days of fun and games are over. The new programs give everyone the best of both worlds with clean up programs, wheel chair building programs, bike building programs, playground building programs as well as numerous art programs. Encourage your corporations to step out of their comfort zone and build a team, build camaraderie and build awareness.
Joan Rothbard Recreation Picnic Service “ARTwithPURPOSE” 973-992-7785 www.recreationpicnicservice.com joan@recreationpicnicservices.com
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MEMBERSHIP
C O R N E R
LET’S GET THE BALL ROLLING!
The MPI New Jersey Chapter is the ultimate “learning lab” where ideas, talents and knowledge merge to help each of us grow professionally, collaborate and incorporate new ideas and make new industry friends along the way. One of the most effective ways to build valuable peer relationships, is to become involved in the chapter as a volunteer and serve on a committee. Yes, we know this sounds like “same story, different year” to be asked to serve on a committee. Please read on, though, to understand why this year will be different and better! (This is good stuff.) A new year with a new approach! The chapter leadership is so enthusiastic about the educational and networking opportunities in store for membership this year, that we want as many members as possible to be part of the excitement instead of sitting on the sidelines. The best industry knowledge and resources are right in our own backyard! Whether you’re a planner or supplier member, participating on a committee provides the perfect opportunity to broaden your network and learn the work-style of those you’re serving with. Same thing applies to members who are newer to our chapter, new to the meetings industry or students preparing for their career who want to begin developing powerful connections while still in school. Time: Our most valued commodity. We understand many members are simply taxed for time. And we respect your time! We’re committed to ensuring you’re able to contribute in a time capacity that will fit your business and professional lifestyle: GIVE MPI-NJ ONE HOUR A MONTH! Yes, you read that correctly. We believe that each member giving just one hour a month will ultimately make a big difference in the vibrancy of membership engagement. Pitch in a little and fully own that one hour a month! Got Talent? Our industry naturally attracts curious people…and we never know where the “next great concept” is going to come from that packs a punch strong enough to integrate into your company’s or client’s own planning endeavors! Participate in the chapter’s initiatives and projects by contributing your professional talent, providing planning input and bringing new ideas to the table. Choosing a Committee: What to consider Where are you professionally right now in your career and where can you best focus “one hour a month” to MPI-NJ? Below are two angles of thought to consider: A: Choose a committee that complements what you already do as a meeting professional. The work you do already comes naturally and your business intelligence will be appreciated, utilized and acknowledged through what you’re contributing for the good of the chapter as a whole. B: Choose a committee position to develop a skill you want to master! Going back to the “learning lab” mentality, being humble with peers and demonstrating your tenacity to be a well-rounded professional will be met by co-committee members with a great big
smile! Our industry is uber-gracious when it comes helping others succeed; you’ll experience people who have a sincere desire to help you develop while contributing to the progress of the chapter. Are you in? Will you give MPI-NJ one hour each month? There are four (4) main departments in our chapter for you to choose from: Education, Communications, Finance and Membership. Within these four departments are multiple committees just waiting for YOU! CHOOSE ONE and let’s get that ball rolling for you to join MPI New Jersey’s most exciting year ever! Ambassador Committee Internal Communications Special Events Committee Awards/Scholarship Committee Membership Committee Strategic Partnerships Community Outreach Nominations Committee Student Leadership Education Committee PR/Marketing Committee Website Committee Golf Committee To get situated on a committee, please contact us via email and we’ll get you connected to the right person. And, if you’re planning to attend the MPI-NJ Chapter Education Program on September 10, the Membership team will be available to visit, answer questions and get you matched up to a committee on the spot! We look forward to learning great things are happening for the chapter as a result of YOUR PARTICIPATION…YOUR ONE HOUR A MONTH! So, Let's Get the Ball Rolling and make your membership a beneficial and fun experience! Patty Stern, CMP VP of Membership patty@groupdmm.com
Rebecca L. Wakefield, CMP Director of Member Care rlwakefield@kpmg.com
MEMBER NEWS Job Updates: Michelle Wescott, Past President, is now the Director of Group Sales at Camelback Lodge and Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark. Baby News: Alyssa Lippincott, Sales Manager at Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, PA welcomed Connor Travis Lippincott, born on August 22nd.
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IMMIGRATION REFORM HELPS NJ BUSINESSES But current U.S. immigration policies make it difficult — if not impossible — for other foreignborn entrepreneurs to bring their dreams to reality in America. Short-sighted visa allocations too strictly limit the number of applicants given entry permits, even when they have skills that would not only allow them to form new companies but also make existing American firms more competitive.
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very New Jersey food lover knows that our state is blessed with an abundance of excellent ethnic restaurants. In addition to great food, these local businesses create jobs, generate tax revenue and support the growth of our state economy. And many of them were founded and are run by immigrants. The success of immigrant restaurant entrepreneurs in New Jersey is one of many reasons I am convinced Congress should pass immigration reform. Immigrants have a long, proud history of entrepreneurism, here in New Jersey and across the nation. First- or secondgeneration immigrants were behind the formation of 40 percent of all Fortune 500 companies. Modern tech giants Intel, Google and eBay all had immigrant founders. In New Jersey, major employers including Honeywell, Merck, Cognizant Technology Solutions and Goya foods are all the result of hard work by immigrants or their children.
Employers in fields from agriculture to restaurant and hospitality to technology struggle to find enough U.S. job applicants, while our visa system sends immigrants eager to work back to their home countries. Other immigration policies are badly in need of a fix as well. The lack of a DREAM Act policy denies young people who have grown up in the United States the opportunity to finish their education and build careers. Brought into America by their parents as youngsters, our system punishes them for acts they didn’t commit and punishes the rest of us by hindering economic growth. We need the youth and vitality immigrants can bring to our labor force. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates the effect smarter immigration policies would have on an aging American workforce could extend the life of Social Security by a full two years, adding $300 billion to the Social Security Trust Fund. It could also reduce the federal budget deficit by nearly $850 billion over 20 years. Implementing a plan to bring undocumented immigrants out of hiding and into our economy would also generate huge gains in
terms of productivity and job creation. We don’t need amnesty for lawbreakers, but a simple adjustment to immigration policy that would give people who have broken immigration laws the chance to pay appropriate penalties and move on with their lives. In New Jersey, it is estimated that a pathway to legal residency would create more than 17,000 new jobs and generate $1.2 billion in gross state product by 2020. Couple that with an increase in the number of visas made available to high-skill workers, and 12,000 more jobs and another $1.2 billion in GSP would be added. The current political climate has made passing immigration reform somewhat tougher, but it has not made it any less necessary or less popular. A clear majority of the American people still support immigration reform. The House of Representatives needs to do likewise. Marilou Halvorsen, the author of this article, is President of the New Jersey Restaurant Association in Trenton NJ. The NJRA is the state’s largest hospitality organization, representing 24,000 restaurants, lodging and hospitality businesses and 314,000 employees. The mission of the NJRA is to “Educate, Advocate, and Support the Hospitality Industry in New Jersey.”
This article has been reprinted with the permission of the NJ Com and Star Ledger. This is not necessarily the opinion of MPI-NJ. This is a reprint of an article providing one viewpoint from the hospitality industry.
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STRATEGICALLY INCREASE YOUR NETWORK USING LINKEDIN
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n our 21st Century Society, you now have the ability to reach out to more people than you had in the past. This article is about using LinkedIn to increase your network; whether for developing Business to Business (B2B) or Business to Consumer (B2C) contacts. LinkedIn is a social media venue geared towards professionals. At its core is the professional profile. Some individuals ask, 1) Why is LinkedIn important to me? 2) Why should I have a profile on LinkedIn? To the first question; your customers, colleagues, recruiters, and media personnel benefit from this social media venue. They use LinkedIn to increase their knowledge base, and support their business goals. To the second question; if you develop a marketable LinkedIn profile, then you will be able to gain the benefits of LinkedIn, as well. Here, you will learn two strategies to employ in your use of LinkedIn that will lead you to growth in your network. The two strategies are: Conference Connecting (CC) and Client/Customer Search (CCS). Conference Connecting (CC) Strategy The Conference Connecting (CC) Strategy allows you make LinkedIn part of your networking process. At the conference you start by writing down the name of individuals you meet and would like to develop a business relationship with them. Also make note of interesting information that they present, if they are a presenter; or say, if the person is another conference attendee. At the end of the day, or end of the conference, send a connection invitation to them through
LinkedIn. In your invitation mention something that you noted about them. An example of an invitation that I use: Hello Dr. Expert Dr. Expert, I attended the Leadership Conference. I enjoyed your presentation on, How to Effectively Develop Leaders. I use LinkedIn to keep track of my professional network, and would like to add you. Stanley T. Crawford, Ed.D. Be aware that some people will choose to connect and some people will not connect; do not take it personally. Once an individual connects, it is just the beginning of the relationship building process. You should send the new connection a “Thank you message.� In the message you should mention something that you have to offer, avoid the hard sell; as it is a turnoff. Your ultimate goal depending on the connection might be to eventually communicate at least once by telephone, Face Time, SKYPE, Face-to-face, or some other venue that allows you to build trust. It is good to avoid using age and experience as your deciding factors as to what venue will build comfort and trust with the connection. Your best evaluation will be made through communication with the connection and checking out their online presence. Client/Customer Search (CCS) Strategy This strategy is used to develop clients or build your customer base. Two major activities come
together in this strategy: 1) Your ability to determine your clients or customers wants or needs. 2) Your ability to convert research into action through the LinkedIn search tool. First, start with what you know about your clients or customers wants and needs. List these wants and needs on a sheet of paper or an electronic device. Second, prioritize this list. Then, select your top three priorities. Third, go to LinkedIn and search for these terms. Narrow the search list even more by limiting your location and other attributes that are available to you in the search screen. Fourth, browse through the brief profiles determining who matches your client/customer wants and needs criteria. Next, read the expanded profile of individuals who catch your attention. When you locate a potential candidate, go to the next step. Fifth, prepare a connection request. You must give some thought to your connection request. You must decide what you want the potential connection to do. For example, do you want
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WRITING IN THE At the top of a page, write the words ‘Here and now I am’ followed by an ellipsis. In the next five minutes write as many sentences as you can, each sentence beginning with ‘Here and now I am.’ The rules: no questions, no stopping, no thinking, no worries about logic or syntax and no cheating off your neighbor. If you go blank, draw from your senses — what you see, smell, taste, hear, feel. Frenzied writing ensues. After five minutes, I instruct the participants to stop, then to reread their scribbles to themselves, painful as it may be, looking for patterns. A few brave ones read them aloud. Perry Garfinkel, journalist, author, speaker and writing instructor, based in Berkeley, CA., has reported on psychology, travel, health and spirituality trends for 4 decades. He's a long time contributor to The New York Times, and author of several books including his national bestseller, Buddha or Bust: In Search of Truth, Meaning, Happiness and the Man Who Found Them All (Harmony Books) fits into a new literary genre: "spiritual adventure travel memoir.”
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here may be no literary genre that, at its best, evokes sense of place more than travel writing. The whole point is to make the reader feel there, not here, to transport proverbial armchair travelers from their dull, quiet living rooms to a cacophony of scarlet macaws clearing their throats deep in a tropical rain forest in Costa Rica. This is why I open every travel writing workshop I’ve led over three decades with a pop quiz:
There is method to my modus. For one thing, like other popular icebreaking or warm-up writing exercises, it’s an excellent way to sidestep the matter that most obstructs neophytes and veterans alike from writing: writing. It also forces them to observe and then report on the meanderings of their minds. This little drill demonstrates how hard that is. Anyone who has tried to meditate knows that as soon as you ask your mind to focus on one thing — a candle, your breath, a mantra — it wanders freely and often randomly, as if it had a mind of its own, thinking about everything but whatever you’ve assigned it. Since prose must follow a logical sequence — “must,” that is, if you want anyone to catch your literary drift — keeping the mind on track, recording and directing its flow with some discipline, becomes fairly essential to the craft. As I have observed every single time I’ve popped this quiz, our thoughts move inevitably and naturally from the general to the
specific and swing back again. From the microcosm to the macrocosm, from the cosmic to the mundane, from the external to the internal, from the finite to the infinite. From the reality of where you are here and now to the fantasy of where you’d like to be here and now. “Here and now I am pushing my pen across this page pretending to be focused on this boring exercise.” “Here and now I am on a tropical isle, feeling the salty air brushing my tanned face, far from this madding crowd.” “Here and now I hear a siren outside.” “Here and now I wish I could hear the siren call of my Muse.” “Here and now I am wondering why I am here and now.” And, finally, there’s often someone who writes: “Here and now I am here and now.” Period. I invite that person to sit at the head of the class as a sign that he or she has attained some kind of Zen Writer satori state. This is more than a classroom assignment. “Here and now I am” is my mantra in the field while on assignment. It wakes me up, fully imbibing this time, this place, this smell, this sight. I’ve chanted it from the mundane Jersey Shore to the exotic India to, yes, remote regions of Costa Rica. It triggers all my sensory recording devices, whether tape recorders or cameras or my nose or ears. It guides me gently between the little details and the Big Idea. The late literary historian Paul Fussell, in his introduction to “The Norton Book of Travel,”
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E HERE AND NOW writes: “Successful travel literature mediates between two poles: the individual physical things it describes, on the one hand, and the larger theme that it is ‘about,’ on the other. That is, the particular and the universal.” He does not allude to time but “Here and now I am” also addresses that dimension, as uniquely experienced by writers. In this regard, the good writer is like the camel that collects and conserves water for those long
dry days, storing memories to sip later. If I am fully in this moment, fully savoring this sensation, when I write about it at some future time and place I am better able to bring what’s now there-and-then into the here-and-now. And further, if I am skillful enough to capture and hold this moment now, someone reading my words at some distant time and place will feel the same here-and-now-ness that I did back then and there.
I often request that those who have completed my writing workshops, retreats and classes send me a postcard from abroad or their backyard. I hope you can imagine how I ask them to start their cards. Now, I invite you to the virtual head of the class and to lead any comment here with the same words.
This article has been reprinted with the permission of Perry Garfinkle.
President’s Message (Continued from Page 3)
Increase Your Network (Continued from Page 21)
good scores for surveys, membership retention, and membership engagement. This is a true indicator that we are doing a better job and focusing on the right things for you, the members.
them to merely connect and then you follow-up? Do you want them to go to your website, to join you on Twitter, Facebook or another social media venue? Remember, social media is about building relationships.
Our theme this year is Have a Ball with MPINJ! We want to make the time you spend with us not only educational AND productive, but fun! I guarantee it will be contagious. Help us spread this message to your friends and colleagues that MPINJ knows how to get down to the business of meetings, Pam Wynne discovers a new skill but we have a lot of fun in in making balloon animals during doing so. I hope that you the CSR event at the WEC will consider joining MPINJ on our path of discovery as an organization. We will be looking to promote our “One Hour of Volunteering” this year. Considering donating an hour or more of your time to MPINJ and help us grow and prosper! Who knows – it may also give you some new ideas or help you build some new skills. As we embark on a new season, I challenge each of you to personally go out and discover. I encourage you to find time to enjoy life, spend a little more time feeding your soul and a little less time stressing about it, whatever “It” is. I hope to See you in September!!
PamWynne, CMM, CMP MPI NJ Chapter President - 2014-2015
In concluding, using LinkedIn to increase your network will prove to be beneficial to you and your organization. Start by developing your LinkedIn profile today. Dr. Stanley T. Crawford is an educator, public speaker and author. Find out more at following social media venues. LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/drstanleycrawford Website: http://www.stanleycrawford.com Twitter: @artistwithwords Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stanley.T.Crawford Email: Crawford-1@sbcglobal.net Telephone: 972-979-0193 Copyright 2014.
Thank you for your support by providing ground transportation to our guests.
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NEW, TRANSFER & AFFILIATE MEMBERS NEW MEMBERS NAKI ALPAY Receptive Service Alexander & Troy LLC. 400 Gothan Parkway Carlstadt, NJ 07072
MARILYN McHUGH Vice President Global Events Questex Media Group 757 Third Avenue, 5th Floor New York, NY 10017
JENNIFER CHIARO Marketing Event Manager 1 Monterey Court Jackson, NJ 08527
TAMMI VETTERL Director of Sales & Marketing The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village 110 Davidson Avenue Somerset, NJ 08873
ERIN JACOBSEN Special Events Sales Manager Dave and Buster’s 4661 Palisades Center Drive West Nyack, NY 10994
DONNA VITALE-SCHWARTZ National Sales Manager Caesar’s Entertainment-Atlantic City Region 82 McKinley Drive Ocean, NJ 07712
KOLLEEN WHITLEY Senior Event and Trade Show Manager Heartland Payment Systems 5704 Buttonwood Court Monmouth Junction, NJ 08852
This listing contains all New Members, Chapter Transfer Members and Affiliate Members from July 1 to August 31, 2014. If you should not be listed please contact: rmarion@mpinewjersey.org
DESTINATION DESTINA ATION T INNOV INNOVATION. OV VATTION. At Sands At Sands Bethlehem, Bethlehem, w we’ve e’ve a assembled ssembled the the best best and and the the b brightest rightest to to assure assure meetings meetings and and tradeshows tradeshows sg go o beyond the expected. Our 12,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and 14,000 sq. ft. of tradeshow space merge seamlessly with our exceptional accommodations and exquisite catering. We offer the latest in technology, 10 dining choices, legendary entertainment, outlet shopping, rejuvenating spa services and so much more. Simply stated, we’re at the top of our game so you can be at the top of yours. Book your meeting or conference today by calling Alyssa Lippincott at 484.777.7497 or email Alyssa.Lippincott@PaSands.com.
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MPI-NJ CHAPTER would like to acknowledge and thank our Strategic Partners for their Support of the Chapter
Diamond Kalahari Resorts 855.411.4605 KalahariMeetings.com/NJ
Platinum Ocean Place Resort & Spa 7325714000 www.oceanplace.com Palace at Somerset Park (732) 3029922 www.palacesomersetpark.coml
Gold Hilton Hasbrouck Heights/ Meadowlands Hotel 2012886100 www3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ne wjersey/hiltonhasbrouck heightsmeadowlands EWRHHHF/index.html
The Heldrich Hotel 7327294670 www.theheldrich.com Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem 4847777443 www.pasands.com
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EXECUTIVE BOARD President Pam Wynne, CMM, CMP Carlson Wagonlit Travel 9084230526 pwynne@carlsonwagonlit.com
VP Administration Kaaren Hamilton, CMP Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group 9084487804 khamilton@carlsonrezidor.com
Immediate Past President Julia Ramos, CMP JR Global Events Associates 2013338834 juliaramos@comcast.net
VP Education Kellie Ann Cahill, CMP New York Hilton Midtown 2122615966 kellie.cahill@hilton.com
VP Communications Mary Lou Pollack Ocean Place Resort and Spa 7325715739 mpollack@oceanplace.com
VP Membership Patty Stern, CMP Chief Creative Officer Patty Stern Creative 9736692891 patty@groupdmm.com
VP Finance Todd Steinberg, CMP Sonesta Collection 8622287079 tsteinberg@sonesta.com
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Director of Finance Michael Brill MEDALS LLC (Medical Education Delivery, Advisory and Logistics Support) 7326591133 medalsllc@aol.com
Director of Communications Carol Malinky, CMP C.A.Malinky Communications 2012320110 tmalinky@aol.com
Director of Strategic Partnerships John Pursel Hyatt Regency Jersey City 2014694763 John.pursel@gmail.com
Director of Education Nancy Sutta Berns Nancy Sutta Berns, LLC. 9738868852 nsuttaberns@optonline.net
Director of Membership Rebecca Wakefield, CMP KPMG, LLP 2013077259 rlwakefield@kpmg.com
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COMMITTEE CHAIRS Ambassador Committee
OnSite Committee
Special Events Committee
Richard McCadden, CoChair Wyndham Hotels 9733772424 rmccadden@wyndham.com
Paula Dellaluna, Chair GEM Limo 7326188485 pdellaluna@gemlimo.com
Merlene Wilder, CMP, CoChair TeamUnity (formerly UniREc) 9733259111 merlene@unirecgames.com
Awards & Scholarship Committee
PR/Marketing Committee
Jamie Keith, CMP, Chair Hilton Newark Airport 9088202908 Jamie.keith2@hilton.com
Michele Ross, CoChair FRHI Hotels and Resorts 7098839808 michele.ross@frhi.com
Edie Leibman, CoChair LPC Consulting, LLC. 9739922455 edie.leibman@gmail.com
Education Committee Rhonda Moritz, CoChair Cadaret Grant and Company 9737702300 rmoritz@cadaretgrant.com
Social Media Committee Lisa Drake, Chair Ocean Place Resort & Spa 7325715739 ldrake@oceanplace.com
Student Leadership Committee Melissa Winfield, Chair Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group 9739199125 mwinfield@carlsonrezidor.com
Membercare Committee
Bruce Boillotat, CoChair Rebecca Wakefield, CMP, Chair Royal Coachman 9734003204 KPMG LLP bruce.boillotat@royalcoachman.com 2013077259 rlwakefield@kpmg.com
Nominating Committee
Chapter Administrator
Julia Ramos, CMP, JR Global Events Associates, LLC 2013338834 juliaramos@comcast.net
Ruth Marion, CMP MPI NJ Chapter Phone: 2018752476 rmarion@mpinewjersey.org